The 2006 Tom Casey Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded by Jay County Civic Theatre to Diane Whitenack This award goes to people who have had a profound effect on theatre in Jay County, and that definitely describes Diane. As wife, mother, actress, singer, and dancer, Diane has come to embody amateur theatre in general and Jay County Theatre in particular. She started acting with JCCT in the fall of 1989, with Performance Company that winter, and with Forte Dance Troupe in 1990. She has been Producer, Director, Supporting Character Actress, and Star! Some of her more memorable roles were Anneece in "Belles" (2005) Essie in "You Can't Take It With You" (2002) Lucy in "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" (1998) and "Snoopy!!"(1999) Jester in "Once Upon A Mattress" (1997) The Wicked Witch in "The Wizard of Oz" (1996) Dorothy in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1995) Gabby/Bobbie in "City of Angels" (1994) Pam in "Baby" (1993) Olive in "The Odd Couple (Female Version)"(1993) Diane could not have done all she does without the love and support of her family. She met her husband, Gary, while they were students at Vincennes University. They married in 1970, and he brought his newlywed bride back to Jay County in 1973. Their daughter, Mandy, was born in 1975. Besides theater and performing, Diane's interests include reading, doing crosswords, traveling, and gambling (but what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!) The award was presented to Diane on May 6, 2006 by her long-time friends Bev Wolford and Marc Lewallen after one of Diane's wonderful performances in "Hello, Dolly!" In her acceptance speech Diane graciously thanked everyone she has worked with for their support and love. Photos by Russell Burbage Click on the picture to see the larger version
Bev Wolford and Marc Lewallen presenting the award	Bev Wolford and Marc Lewallen presenting the award
Diane Whitenack 2006 Tom Casey Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
Bev Wolford and Diane Whitenack	BFF! Bev Wolford Diane Whitenack

2005 Award Winner
Tom Casey