By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

A tremendous amount of outpouring of love could be seen on Facebook as members of the Grand Rapids theater community remembered friend and colleague Rob Thomasma.

Thomasma died over the weekend. His contributions to the theater were well known ranging from make up to performing on stage. He started in the theater as a child with his first production being “The Wizard of Oz.” Since then, he has appeared on stage or behind the scenes at Civic Theatre Jewish Theatre, Heritage Theatre, Circle Theatre, Opera Grand Rapids, Actors’ Theatre, and Grand Valley State University.

His last role was as General MacKenzie in the current Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production of Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None,” which opened on Friday. Many people noted they saw him at Friday’s opening.

“Rob loved theater and his 50-year career has made a lasting impression in our West Michigan community theatre and opera,” said Nancy Brozek, the director of development and community relations for the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. “He was a talented actor and an extraordinary hair and make up artist.”

Brozek said Thomasma had enjoyed his role as General MacKenzie with many commenting on social media that he said he was happy to return to the stage.

Jack Gillisse will reprise his role as General MacKenzie for the rest of the show’s run, which is through Jan. 27. Gillisse was in the Shadblow Theatre’s summer production of “And Then There Were None,” with Wyoming resident Cathy Van Lopik. 

“We dedicate our production in celebration of Rob’s full and artistic life,” Brozek said. “He is greatly missed.”

For more information about the show, visit grct.org.