Ken and Kathryn

19 May 2024

Two people with close associations with WCT – Kenlis Horitz and Kathryn Richmond - died suddenly in April, with their funerals, by coincidence, taking place on the same afternoon.  Kathryn Richmond, age 19 years, joined WCT when she was 10 years, and took part in several productions, including By Hook or By Crook and Grist to the Mill.

Tony Horitz wrote on behalf of WCT: 'Kathryn was one of life's originals - always her own person and never afraid to voice her opinions; always open and friendly, keen to chat and discuss books she'd read and ideas she'd had. She was perfect when cast in our history plays as she had a timeless quality both in her demeanour and her voice. Young people like Kathryn have played a huge part in the development and success of Wimborne Community Theatre. The group came into being to nurture their curiosity about history, the environment and the many, diverse people who have shaped our world, in Dorset and beyond. Kathryn seemed to grasp this instantly. It was lovely to watch her immersion and enthusiasm in all aspects of our work - from exploring landscape, devising stories and performing. We'll miss her, but know she will always be part of our creative community. She left a light burning.'

Kenlis Horitz, age 91 years, was an active member of WCT since 2003. History and literature were two of her many passions and she will be remembered for the enthusiasm and bemusement with which she tackled her various roles.  Ken was rarely daunted by anything she was asked to do.  In Enquire Within, she played the part of House with dignity even though was dressed in a see-through hooped skirt. And in The Great Rinsing (2011), she was somewhat puzzled by the character she played of an eccentric but wise Margaret, wearing rubber gloves and pushing a wheelie bin of water.  In WCT's last show, Letters to the Living, Songs to the Dead (2014), Ken gave a memorable recitation in the Forest Garden of The Soldier by Rupert Brooke.

 'We will miss the laughter she brought to workshops and rehearsals, the sound of her wonderful voice and her vitality and common sense ... but good on you, Ken, for contributing so much to WCT over many years.'Jeff and Barbara Hart ‘She was so beautiful when I saw her perform in the community garden. I'll never forget that. It seemed like she could live forever.’ Charmaine Kay Parkin