Nearly 100 people watched the performance of “The Arena” atthe Avon Opera Block last Monday. Above, from left to right, Bryant Dunham of the Valley of Rochester Scottish Rite presents a plaque to author John Lemke as Mike Simmons, who played Teddy Roosevelt, watches. Photo by Bob Kimmel
On Monday, April 14th, the Avon Opera Block presented the debut performance of “The Arena,” written by John Lemke. The Avon Springs Masonic Lodge hosted the event, which was free and open to the public. Mr. Lemke has written several so-called “public degrees” for the Valley of Rochester Scottish Rite Masons. This group helped support the production. Besides the public, the Lodges in Letchworth and the surrounding Districts were invited to bring anyone interested in Freemasonry.
“The Arena” highlights the high points and low points during the life of President Theodore Roosevelt. It emphasizes brotherly love and forgiveness. As the title suggests, it also stresses the importance of staying in the “Arena” of life while using your God-given talents. In addition, as a “public degree,” it delves into masonic themes as demonstrated by the experiences of America’s twenty-sixth President, who was inaugurated in Buffalo, NY, on September 14, 1901, following the death of President William McKinley.
The Avon Opera Block was built in 1876. The newly renovated third floor of the Opera Block was a community opera hall, typical of its time and location. Famous speakers such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Sojourner Truth graced the opera house.
The evening began with dinner at 5:30 pm at The Village Restaurant, including roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, beverage, and dessert. Folks then proceeded to the Avon Opera Block for the start of the performance at 7:00 pm. Following the show, at 8:30 pm, the Avon Springs Lodge invited the audience for coffee and desserts. A headcount during “The Arena” showed 98 people attended the event, making it one of the largest crowds for a local masonic event.
