Named in honor of FST founding Artistic Director, Jon Spelman, the Spelman Award is presented to an individual or institutional sponsor who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership through philanthropic support, stewardship, or service. Last month, we were proud to present the annual Spelman Award to program underwriters Wendy and Bob Grady at FST’s Denim and Diamonds Shindig fundraiser in recognition of their generous enthusiasm and financial support.

Mr. and Mrs. Grady first became actively involved with FST when their daughter, Rebecca, joined the company as a Stage Management Intern within FST’s Production Department. As Co-Producers, the Grady’s threw themselves into the art of FST, attending almost every script read through, invited rehearsal, and opening night performance. Mr. and Mrs. Grady regularly host out of state cast members in their home and are on a first name basis with the entire FST staff.

Today, the Gradys underwrite all three stages—our Winter Mainstage, Cabaret, and Stage III series—as well as FST’s award-winning arts-in-education WRITE A PLAY program.

“Last year, Wendy and Bob Grady supported an extension of our award-winning WRITE A PLAY program,” explained Producing Artistic Director, Richard Hopkins. “With their gifts, FST has been able to reach students at the Holy Name School in Camden, NJ, a struggling school comprised almost entirely of students of color. Wendy and Bob have also underwritten our entire Winter Season. They make it possible for FST to excel!”