Helston Theatre Company have paid tribute to their late president following her death, describing her as “an integral part of the fabric of amateur theatre” in the town.
For 26 years, drama and theatre groups in Helston had the benefit of Jeane Unwin’s expertise as a professionally trained actress.
She left professional acting when she married and started a family, but the industry’s loss was local theatre’s gain.
Despite not intending to get involved when she moved to Helston with her late husband Mike, this resolve did not last long and she ended up being chairman of the Meneage Arts Players, president of Helston Theatre Company and was also involved in Helston Methodist Church Drama Group and Helston Musical Theatre Company.
Whether it was acting and singing, directing, voice coaching, prompting, character detailing or sitting on committees, Jeane did it all.
Paul Blaber, from Helston Theatre Company, recalled: “When Jeane moved to Helston with her late husband Mike she planned not to get involved with the non-professional theatre companies, as it was something that she had done all her life - but when it's in your blood...
“I think it was two weeks before she contacted us!”
The theatre company remembered Jeane with a tribute on their Facebook page, saying it was “with great sadness” that they announced her death.
They said: “Jeane was a rock of common sense and good judgement; she became an integral part of the fabric of amateur theatre in Helston and was a much loved and highly respected lady.
“Being a part of a theatre company is not just about being on stage; it’s about serving on the committee, it’s directing, supporting and hosting events - it’s about using your box of skills to support those around you, and adapting that box of skills as you get older, so that you can still enjoy this wonderful hobby.
“Jeane was a shining example of this and she will be greatly missed by us all.
“We send our love and condolences to all her family, especially Jon and Nicola, at this very sad time.”
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