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Geoff Gruson Obituary, Ottawa Little Theatre President Unexpectedly Passed Away | Memorial Haven

It is with a heavy heart that the Friends of Ottawa Little Theatre Facebook page shared the somber news of OLT President Geoff Gruson’s untimely passing on December 19. His sudden departure left the community in shock, mourning the loss of a theatrical icon whose impact reached far beyond the stage.

Geoff had just completed a triumphant run in the title role of Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley” merely three days before his passing. The post on Friends of Ottawa Little Theatre Facebook serves as a poignant tribute to a man who dedicated over four decades to the world of community theatre.

Having acted in an impressive 51 plays since 1981 and directed 24 others, Geoff’s influence permeated every aspect of Ottawa Little Theatre. His multifaceted contributions included roles as assistant to the director, fight director, set designer, and membership in various committees. He served as Chair of the Artistic Committee and was a crucial member of the Play Selection Committee. Geoff was on the Board of Directors for over 20 years, culminating in his presidency from 2017 until his passing.

Geoff Gruson was more than a president; he was a leading man, a mentor, and a driving force behind the scenes. Always prioritizing the audience’s experience, Geoff aimed for performances of the highest quality. His extensive professional background in film, TV, and stage, coupled with his presidency of ACTRA, brought a wealth of experience to the community theatre realm. His heart was unwaveringly dedicated to Ottawa Little Theatre.

His contributions extended beyond the OLT, as he fostered partnerships with other community theatres, including Orpheus Musical Theatre Society, Linden House, Tara Players, and Kanata Theatre. Geoff’s passion for theatre was broad, but his heart remained firmly with the Ottawa Little Theatre.

Geoff Gruson’s theatrical journey was marked by versatility. From lead roles to supporting characters, he embraced every opportunity, even stepping in during emergencies. As a director, his tireless dedication to achieving the best performances left an indelible mark on those he mentored. Up-and-coming directors found in him a guide and a source of inspiration.

Awards adorned Geoff’s career, reflecting the recognition of his peers and the wider theatre community. Notable accolades include the Capital Critics Circle Award for Best Community Theatre Production for “Epic Proportions” (2002) and “Other Desert Cities” (2017). His directorial excellence was acknowledged with the EODL Best Director award for “Deliver’d from Nowhere” (2009) and the Theatre Ontario Best Production Award for “Dead Accounts” (2018). The Capital Critics Circle honored him with the Audrey Ashley Award in the 2006-07 season for his outstanding contribution to theatre in Ottawa. In 2014, Geoff was rightfully inducted into the OLT Cornerstone.

Geoff’s impact reached its zenith during his presidency, guiding the strategic vision that transformed OLT in 2008-09. Taking the helm as president in 2017, he led the theatre back to its roots as a volunteer-run community theatre. Through the challenges of the pandemic, he steered OLT to 100% sold-out houses for “A Christmas Carol.”

The legacy of Geoff Gruson, captured in photos from productions spanning his illustrious career, will be remembered for years to come. His dedication, passion, and love for theatre have left an indelible mark on Ottawa Little Theatre and the wider theatrical community.

As we reflect on the rich tapestry of Geoff’s theatrical journey, we celebrate the life of a man whose impact transcends the stage, leaving an enduring legacy at the heart of Ottawa’s vibrant theatre scene.

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Update: 2024-05-05