May 21 Celebration of Jerry Wedge

On the evening of Tuesday May 21, more than 150 past and present colleagues, studio neighbors, supporters, friends and other admirers gathered at The Umbrella for a celebration of Jerry Wedge's 12 years at the helm growing our vibrant arts center.

Members of the Board, Advisory Council, Staff and Studio Artists intermingled over delicious food by Saltbox and beverages from West Concord Wine and Liquor and The Cheese Shop served in the Gallery and the side courtyard.

At 7:30, the crowd gathered in the Main Stage Theater 144 for a special tribute program with some surprises. The program began with a presentation of images from Wedge's time at The Umbrella, and welcoming remarks by recently named incoming Executive Director Eileen Williston. Studio Artist and past Board Member, writer Gregory Maguire, shared a tribute to Wedge and what he'd accomplished at The Umbrella that was filled with warmth and humor.

Board Chair Ellen McHale and Board Member and Capital Campaign Chair Liz Gross presented Jerry with two special gifts -- a beautiful crystal bowl to be inscribed with the signatures of the Board, and a draft rendering of the second floor Gallery space to be named in his honor this fall.

In the biggest surprise of the evening, the crowd was then treated to a captivating and unannounced performance by Broadway star Joseph Leo Bwarie. The Jersey Boys star had built lasting connections with Jerry and The Umbrella since performing here with his band first in 2017, then again in The Umbrella's 2020 virtual gala, Stand by Me.

Wedge concluded the evening with heartfelt remarks of appreciation to the people who had supported his career at The Umbrella. He will step down from his Executive Director position at the end of June.

Below is a gallery of the evening's highlights photographed by Jim Sabitus.