It’s Christmas Day in Linda Wood’s childhood home in New Brunswick. She and her two sisters take their places, ready to put on a performance for their family. “I’d play the piano and we would sing Christmas songs,” Linda recalls. “The performing arts have always been part of my life.”
These days Linda prefers to be behind-the-scenes or in the audience rather than on stage. She’s been a loyal volunteer with the Friends of English Theatre at the NAC since it came into being 11 years ago. “Our mandate is to support NAC English Theatre. We do modest fundraising, help out at special events like Family Day and organize theatre trips. It’s also a forum for theatre lovers to get together,” Linda explains. “We’re like a family. We feel like we’re a part of things and have a role to play.”
Linda plays another important role at the NAC, one she shares with you. “I’m a huge fan of the NAC and have chosen to support them financially,” she says. “The NAC relies on the generosity of donors so Canadians can continue to see top quality productions. I want to make sure that’s sustainable.”
Generous with both her time and financial resources, Linda encourages other arts enthusiasts to give what they can. “All gifts matter. Any amount is welcomed,” she says. “As a volunteer, I know how much the arts cost. What you pay at the box office doesn’t begin to cover it. I give because I love the performing arts so much and want to help ensure the power of music, theatre and dance can be experienced by future generations. This is what is close to my heart.”
This story appears in the fall 2013 issue of Full Circle.
