Traveling Players celebrates Rep. Connolly’s legacy as a champion for theatre education in Northern Virginia

Throughout his career in local and federal government, the Congressman took community arts organizations under his wing

Traveling Players mourns the loss of US Representative Gerry Connolly, who passed away yesterday at the age of 75.

The Congressman was a lifelong supporter of arts and education.  In 2007, during his time as Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, his support was instrumental in Traveling Players finding its long-time home at The Maderia School.

“Gerry truly understood the importance of the performing arts in a child’s development, as well as the critical role the arts play in our lives,” said Jeanne E. Harrison, Founder & Producing Artistic Director at Traveling Players. “From helping us secure new opportunities to performing a cameo role in our adaptation of Dickens’ A Commedia Christmas Carol, he never failed to go above and beyond for our students and our community.”    

US Congressman Connolly led a life of service to Fairfax County, Virginia, and the nation.  We at Traveling Players want to add our voice to the chorus hailing his profound impact on our community through his remarkable dedication, generosity of spirit, and sense of humor.  We feel so lucky to have claimed him as a friend.  He will be missed by so many.