Last fall, Altoona Community Theatre lost their long-time executive director to a sudden illness. Their new theatre season begins September 19-22, with a production of Neil Simon’s “Lost in Yonkers,” at Altoona’s Mishler Theatre. It’s an emotional time for the theatre group, as they remember an old friend, and welcome a new leader.
Steve Helsel was, for decades, the first and only executive director of Altoona Community Theatre, also known as “ACT.” Members of the theatre speak of him as a leader, a whirlwind of creativity, and a good friend to everyone.