Bob McAllister will live large in our hearts | LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Published 11:26 am Saturday, September 13, 2014

To the editor:

This past week, I was greatly saddened to learn of Bob McAllister’s passing. Across my 40 years as an educator, he was without a doubt the finest theater arts (drama) teacher

I have known. He positively touched so many lives, including my own.

As school superintendent, I first attended a Bainbridge High School play production to demonstrate support for the program. Thereafter, we were there for the pure entertainment of a marvelously produced and acted theatrical event.

What Bob was able to accomplish with his students was magical. I never missed a single production, occasionally sat-in on rehearsals, and even once assisted with stage craft.

Bob did contribute to my head of gray hair. He often pushed the limits of public school sensitivities and sensibilities. What his bright red Chuck Taylor high-tops are to shoes, Bob was to the domain of drama teaching.

Yet, he was always able to manage controversial subject matter with artistic good taste. In the process, the students and audience came away enlightened and enriched.

I cannot think about or discuss Bob without smiling. He was/is indeed a gift and treasure. He did not abide or defer to convention.

To him, life was an experience of both submersion and immersion — to be richly and fully known.

He will continue to live large within the hearts of his students, colleagues and community.

DR. KEN CRAWFORD

College Place, Washington