Harold Minear has shocked the theatre world with news of his resignation as Publicity Officer of St Jude's Players.
The man is only 87 years old, for heaven's sake. He will be a hard act to follow.
Harold Minear must have been the most senior publicist in the business. He's been at it for 10 years and directing, writing and being on the company committee for 50. He has been an institution not only at St Jude's but in the country's theatre world.
If it were not for medical advice, one imagines he would have gone on producing with the media releases, phone outreach, photo calls and promotional charm.
Of course, he has had an advantage in that slippery world of publicity. He is a singularly popular, nay, beloved thespian - respected in all quarters. He is recipient of an Adelaide Critics Circle Lifetime Achievement Award among many accolades. Even overworked and evasive media people feel happy, perhaps even honoured, every time they hear from him.
He has been the great jewel in the crown of St Jude's these many long years.
He reveals that a publicity committee will be looking after things in his lieu until the next St Jude's AGM next year.
And he is far from out of the game. As a Life Member of St Jude's, he says he will be involved with the company whenever possible.
Naturally, his last press release is as professional as his first, ensuring that the proper contact information is passed on; phone, email and, of course, St Jude's website: www.stjudesplayers.asn.au
All power and good spirit to a good publicist and thespian role model.
Samela Harris
