Volunteer Spotlight: Ron Ellis
April 18, 2024
It’s impossible to talk about volunteerism at Drayton Entertainment without mentioning former municipal councillor Ron Ellis. He was Volunteer #1 at the place where it all started in 1991, Drayton Festival Theatre.
Matthew Rae MPP, Artistic Director Alex Mustakas, Drayton Festival Theatre volunteer Ron Ellis, and John Nater MP.
How did you begin volunteering with Drayton Entertainment?
Well, I was one of the members of the Drayton Council back in 1991. Myself and the other councillors decided that we needed to do something with theatre, and that’s when Alex Mustakas (Artistic Director) became part of it. We met and we hired him, and I’ve been around ever since then.
Can you remember what the first task was that you had to do as a volunteer?
Oh, yeah, definitely. We had a number of volunteers, and we removed all the seats, put new seats in, sanded the floors, painted all the walls. Then, in 2004, we formed a committee called Friends of Drayton Festival Theatre, and there were about 25 people at the time. We took turns ushering, greeting at the front door, and general maintenance around the building itself to bring it up to date.
Do you have any idea how many hours you’ve completed as a Drayton Entertainment volunteer over the years?
I’ve been here since 1991. We have three or four shows each year, and I’m probably there for three hours a day, for five days, so put that all together! I look after the flowerbeds around the building. In the winter, I clean the snow off the front entrance. You could call me the main greeter for Drayton Festival Theatre!
Why do you find volunteering so fulfilling?
It’s just something I’ve always wanted to do. Back in the day, we were all Kinsmen members, and now I just enjoy making the community a better place. Right now, I’m working with the local hospital raising money for an MRI machine. I just enjoy doing it, especially at the theatre. You see so many people that you haven’t seen for ages, or new people in town. It’s just an exciting thing to do. After 33 years, it’s just part of my life, to be there and help out whenever I can. Years ago, we used to billet actors when they needed someplace to stay, so I’ve met people that way, and we still help out with billets.
What’s your favourite type of Drayton Entertainment show?
Oh, it’s the musicals, really. That’s my cup of tea.
Any standout memories?
The way it’s grown from one theatre to seven different venues. It all started here, so we’re pretty proud of that.
To learn more about our volunteers, visit:
draytonentertainment.com/volunteer
In the News
November 13, 2024
Every Ticket Makes a Difference!On November 2, long-time Drayton Entertainment supporter Dennis Breen was thrilled to receive the exciting news from Artistic Director, Alex Mustakas, that he had won the online 50/50 Jackpot – a total of $6,110.
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November 11, 2024
Drayton Entertainment Announces Artistic Leadership ShiftTransition to Support Theatre’s Multi-Year Succession Plan
Alex Mustakas, founding Artistic Director & CEO of Drayton Entertainment, as supported by the award-winning charitable arts organization’s volunteer Board of Directors, has announced a leadership transition as part of the theatre’s multi-year succession plan.
November 1, 2024
King's Wharf Theatre Announces 2025 SeasonDrayton Entertainment's Artistic Director Alex Mustakas today announced the 2025 Season for the King's Wharf Theatre.
“This is an exciting season filled with entertaining shows for theatregoers at every stage of life,” says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. “From hit Broadway musicals, musical reviews, and the beloved annual panto, there really is something for the whole family.”
November 1, 2024
Drayton Festival Theatre Announces 2025 SeasonDrayton Entertainment's Artistic Director Alex Mustakas today announced the 2025 Season for the Drayton Festival Theatre.
"This season is packed with shows that music lovers of all ages will adore,” says Mustakas. “From a Broadway juggernaut to shows with chart-topping hits, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy!”
November 1, 2024
Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge Announces 2025 SeasonDrayton Entertainment's Artistic Director Alex Mustakas today announced the 2025 Season for the Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge.
“The 2025 Season is all about captivating stories and unforgettable music,” says Alex Mustakas. “With a mix of timeless classics, heartfelt dramas, and thrilling moments, there is something to engage and delight every theatregoer. Whether you come for the music, the drama, or the laughter, there’s a show waiting to resonate with you.”
November 1, 2024
St. Jacobs Country Playhouse Announces 2025 SeasonDrayton Entertainment's Artistic Director Alex Mustakas today announced the 2025 Season for the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.
“We’re excited to be offering a wide variety of shows for theatregoers at every stage of life,” says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. “From side-splitting comedies, to the beloved annual panto, there really is something for the whole family.”
November 1, 2024
Huron Country Playhouse Announces 2025 SeasonDrayton Entertainment's Artistic Director Alex Mustakas today announced the 2025 Season for the Huron Country Playhouse.
“This is an exciting season filled with entertaining shows for theatregoers at every stage of life,” says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. “From hit Broadway musicals, side-splitting comedies, and the beloved annual panto, there really is something for the whole family!”
November 1, 2024
Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre St. Jacobs Announces 2025 SeasonDrayton Entertainment's Artistic Director Alex Mustakas today announced the 2025 Season for the Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre St. Jacobs.
“This season is brimming with shows that will have you humming along and tugging at your heartstrings,” says Mustakas. “With beloved musicals, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable moments, it’s a lineup that celebrates connection, nostalgia, and pure joy on stage!”
October 8, 2024
It Pays to Play!Congratulations to our September 50/50 Winner!
After playing regularly since the raffle began in 2021, Carol Boyd's ticket number was finally called!