Friday, July 19, 2013

Herb Howe Tribute

Written by Julie Hagemeier


On Friday, July 19, the Nebraska Repertory Theatre (NRT) in partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, better known as OLLI, will pay tribute to Dr. Herbert E. Howe Jr.. Dr. Howe, or Herb to his many friends and colleagues, was an advocate for the arts on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus during his time serving as associate to the chancellor from 1988 through 2007. Sadly, Dr. Howe passed away in November 2012.

What a treat it always was to see his smiling face in the lobby of the theatre. That same always-smiling face never forgot to ask how things were going at the theatre when he happened upon one of our staff across campus. He believed in what the NRT was doing and supported it not only with his attendance but also with active involvement in its financial health and well-being.  The same is true with OLLI.  He was passionate in his support of lifelong learning, helping to grow the organization’s membership, advocating for specific programming, and encouraging the staff.

Personally, I enjoyed Herb’s wicked sense of humor. That’s why we chose a performance of MRS. MANNERLY to honor him. I think he would have liked the character of Jeffrey very much, and m-a-y-b-e even identified with him a little bit.  A very kind man, he was also very willing to give his advice and mentor those who needed it. That sort of reminded me ofMRS. MANNERLY as well.  We will toast his memory with food and drink, let family and friends in the audience know just how much we appreciated him, and then spend the next 90 minutes laughing at a show I think he would have really enjoyed.

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