Watching the local production of "War of the Worlds" on Halloween week, I
was moved by news. The marquee outside the modest little neighborhood theater
announced Lambert “Bal” Balducci was “offstage” never to return. Outside the theater, we were playing catch and enjoying a bit of sunshine before the show. The news hit unexpectedly. It hurt. I’d
enjoyed running into him and his wife. They contributed. They had style. They
always had a take on the town worth sharing. Privileged to attend one of their
parties years ago, I remember meeting one of their sons. I made images of the
PA Symphony with the young men, too. They were primed when necessary and goofed well
on the fun shot. I realized my son was experiencing one of the seminal works
and performances of the 20th Century thanks to writer H.G. Wells,
the genius Orson Welles and yes, the gifts of Kathleen Balducci and Bal.
Everything about the PA Community Players
production was executed with attention to detail and style: the UFO smashed
into the theater’s outside wall; the alien green color of the program, the
sound effect props, the timing and intonations of the performers. It all
worked. My son and his buddy enjoyed the show. They asked questions. A masterful
piece of historic mischief and art was handed down.
Thank you to the Balduccis in our community and across stages around the world.
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