February 19, 2019

 

Dear Circle Theatre patrons,

 

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Bill Newberry.  

 

Bill, along with his wife Rose Pearson, founded Circle Theatre in 1981. Together, they oversaw the theatre from its original location on Bluebonnet Circle, to Magnolia Avenue, to its current home in Sundance Square. The couple received the Elston Brooks Lifetime Achievement Award from the Live Theatre League of Tarrant County in 2004.

 

His expansive roles at Circle included: designing over 100 sets, appearing on-stage in over 30 productions, and serving as Technical Director and Stage Manager many times over. In addition, he handled all financials and accounting for the Theatre. He also served as an Actors’ Equity Paymaster for union talent working throughout the state of Texas.

 

Bill constantly championed Circle Theatre's mission of presenting innovative theatre in an intimate setting. His legacy continues as the Theatre just opened its 38th season, the second one since his well-earned retirement in December 2017.

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Thank you for your condolences and thoughts during this time. While this Theatre will never be the same, we are honored our patrons continue to enjoy the journey started by Rose and Bill many years ago.

 

Tim Long 

Executive Director