Shawn Holmes

On Wednesday, we lost a truly wonderful person. And honestly, I’ve been trying to find the right words ever since. ❤️

A little backstory...
Back in high school, Kas cast me in my first two musicals ever, Into the Woods and Children of Eden. At the time, I had no idea just how significant those experiences would become in my life. I remember being completely in awe of her passion, creativity, and the theatre magic she brought to everything she touched. And the beautiful thing about Kas was that her passion was contagious. You couldn’t be around her without feeling it.

Because of that opportunity, theatre became such a meaningful part of my life. I’ve been blessed to perform all across Wisconsin, experience things I never imagined possible, meet incredible people, and create memories I will carry with me forever. And through so many of those moments, Kas and Bob were there.

You both showed up for me. You supported me. You encouraged me. You celebrated my performances and continued to believe in me long after those first musicals. Somewhere along the way, what started as a director taking a chance on a high school kid became something much more special. You became my friend, and I became incredibly grateful to call you that.

You may have thought you were simply casting a loud kid that loves to sing in a musical, but you were doing so much more than that. You were planting a seed that would grow into a lifelong love of performing.

Your impact reaches far beyond the stages you stood on. It lives in every person you encouraged, every performer you inspired, every story you helped bring to life, and every life you touched along the way.

Thank you for the memories, the laughter, the theatre, and the magic. And most importantly, thank you for being my friend.

You will be missed more than words can say, but your legacy will continue every time someone steps onto a stage and feels the same magic you gave so freely.
Until we meet again...

“Thank you, 15.” ❤️🎭