In the early days of this website, we covered a play by Beth Henley called Crimes of the Heart. 

It was an excellent production and special notice was made of a young actor who played the part of Babe.  We learned this was Veronique Ory, co-founder, artistic director and the soul of a rather new company aptly called Athena Theatre Company.  Those familiar with the story of Athena know she is the goddess of wisdom and in other mythologies the protector of other gods.

 

Over the past years, Veronique Ory has brought dozens of actors into the columns of her pantheon, explored uncharted territories and shared her gift of theatre with hundreds of people who attended her productions.  Fiercely protective of the integrity of the company, Veronique has always insisted on the highest level of professionalism from her actors and those around her, but it has been her personal example and integrity that has led the way in achieving this goal.  She knows no other way to do things.

Now the winds of change are taking her from the City of Angels to the Big Apple, where theatre thrives and challenges abound.  We will miss her and no doubt New York will be a fertile ground for her to expand her unique and special gift.

But we won't say goodbye to Veronique or to Athena.  We'll simply wish her a fruitful journey and a successful discovery of those things which she has not yet found.  For now the theatre marquees in this city will shine a little less bright waiting for her victorious return when she will bridge the best that both coasts have to offer.

Thanks for the great moments in theatre and may the great white way embrace you with the same love that we have here.

Jose Ruiz