The student musical production of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ at Three Rivers High School in March generated a great deal of praise – and deservedly so – for its excellence and the acting and musical talent it displayed.
In the footsteps of those accolades came praise for Peter ‘Pete’ Bennett, the creator of the large chandelier that was a key prop for the show.
Trustee Peter Bennett chuckled as Superintendent Roger Rathburn read the text of an award designating him as '2011 Chandelier Maker of the Year.'
Bennett, who is a trustee on the Three Rivers Community Schools Board of Education, was recognized for his efforts during the April 18th meeting of the school board.
Superintendent Roger Rathburn read and presented to Bennett a commendation designating him as ‘2011 Chandelier Maker of the Year.’
Among other things, the award describes Bennett as “an artiste and craftsman of the first order” and “the finest darned bead-stringer north of the Mason-Dixon line!”
'2011 Chandelier Maker of the Year' (Click on image to enlarge)
The award certificate was signed by Rathburn and Susan Schmidtendorff, President of the Three Rivers Community Schools Board of Education.
Bennett obviously enjoyed the recognition and laughed as Rathburn read the text aloud. In brief follow-up comments regarding the chandelier, Bennett said, “We think we’ve got it sold, along with several other props from the show, to Grand Haven High School that’s doing the show next year.” He indicated the proceeds from the sale will go into the drama fund at the high school.
Priceless pic of Bennett. Considering what most school boards are facing these days, I’m glad to see that some levity and good humor is still around to provide some refuge from the insanity. Sorry to say that I missed the play. A friend of mine saw it and she was amazed; very positive review. Cudos to all involved. Does anybody have a pic of this chandelier? Will it remain enigmatic? Ah! DRAMA!
We sat almost directly under it. Amazing what he did with plastic, that man.
It was all in jest, I did not build it, Marcy designed it, purchased all the materials, built it, transported it, wired it, and rigged it, I just helped decorate it and rig it as did others.