Dear friends,
This week, I am reflecting
on the legacy of Hollywood legend and former Saratoga resident Olivia de
Havilland, who passed away last Sunday at the age of 104.
Montalvo has had a long
association with the de Havilland-Fontaine family; in fact, Lilian Fontaine, de
Havilland's mother, was the first artistic director at Montalvo, from 1942 to
1962. She coached students in drama and staged many productions here (some
featuring her daughters while they were still in school!). Montalvo and this
garden stage held such a special place in their mother's heart, her daughters
even scattered Fontaine's ashes in the woods behind the theatre. In 1987, the
theatre was officially named in Lilian Fontaine's honor.
This week, I am reflecting on the legacy of Hollywood legend and former Saratoga resident Olivia de Havilland, who passed away last Sunday at the age of 104.
Montalvo has had a long association with the de Havilland-Fontaine family; in fact, Lilian Fontaine, de Havilland's mother, was the first artistic director at Montalvo, from 1942 to 1962. She coached students in drama and staged many productions here (some featuring her daughters while they were still in school!). Montalvo and this garden stage held such a special place in their mother's heart, her daughters even scattered Fontaine's ashes in the woods behind the theatre. In 1987, the theatre was officially named in Lilian Fontaine's honor.
Left: A plaque bearing the name of The Lilian Fontaine Garden Theatre and dedication to Fontaine; Right: A signed photo from Joan Fontaine reading "For Angela, I very much appreciate your efforts for Montalvo. Thank you."
In 2010, we were
immensely privileged to have de Havilland's sister (and legendary actress in
her own right) Joan Fontaine help preserve their mother's legacy at Montalvo by
funding the much-needed re-landscaping of the theatre's surrounding native
gardens.
Montalvo is blessed to
have been touched by three dynamic, talented, artistic women, who have been
such proponents of the arts through their lifetimes.
Montalvo is blessed to have been touched by three dynamic, talented, artistic women, who have been such proponents of the arts through their lifetimes.
Dedicate A Seat to a Loved One
Just as the Garden Theatre was named for someone special to Montalvo, we offer the opportunity to dedicate a seat in either of our theatres to a loved one. Naming a seat in someone's honor is not only a charitable act towards Montalvo, but a demonstration of your love that will stand in perpetuity. Imagine gifting a legacy that you can one day share with your children, your grandchildren, and beyond. To learn more about naming opportunities, please contact Taylor Abbe.
Olivia de Havilland once said, "One must take what comes with laughter."
Indeed we must and we are at Montalvo. Thanks for supporting this extraordinary place with your gifts. Please know that all gifts have an impact, especially now.
Olivia de Havilland once said, "One must take what comes with laughter."
Indeed we must and we are at Montalvo. Thanks for supporting this extraordinary place with your gifts. Please know that all gifts have an impact, especially now.
Thinking of you all,
Angela McConnell
Executive Director
