At the Utah Shakespeare Festival, 97-year-old pianist Doreen Woolley captivates audiences with her remarkable talent and infectious personality. For over two decades, Woolley has graced the festival with her piano skills, playing without sheet music and engaging with theatergoers as they pass by. Her ability to improvise melodies on the spot has become her signature party trick, showcasing nearly 90 years of experience at the piano.
Woolley’s journey as a pianist began in her childhood in Sandy, Utah, where she started taking piano lessons at the age of 8. Despite facing financial challenges, Woolley’s passion for music drove her to continue her studies through high school and later at the University of Utah. It was during her time at the university that Woolley honed her improvisational skills while working as an accompanist for the Children’s Dance Theatre, setting the stage for her future performances at the Shakespeare Festival.
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Her involvement with the festival initially began in 2001 as an usher, but it was in 2003 that Woolley’s musical talents took center stage when she auditioned to become a volunteer pianist. Her audition, where she played a snippet from “The Phantom of the Opera,” led to her immediate hiring by festival founder Fred Adams. Since then, Woolley has become a beloved fixture at the festival, enchanting audiences with her impromptu melodies and warm interactions.
Woolley’s deep connection with festival attendees goes beyond her musical abilities. She has a knack for engaging people of all ages, from kids to teenagers, who often leave her heartfelt notes and drawings expressing their appreciation. Woolley’s impact on young listeners, in particular, underscores her ability to create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere at the festival, earning her the endearing title of “Dear Miss Pianist” from a pair of teenage fans.
Despite her age, Woolley shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to play seven shows a week at the festival and bringing joy to countless visitors. Her dedication to spreading happiness through music and fostering meaningful connections with patrons has made her an integral part of the Utah Shakespeare Festival’s rich tapestry of performances and community engagement.
Looking ahead, Woolley remains committed to her role as a source of comfort and delight for festival attendees, embodying the spirit of volunteerism and artistic excellence that defines the festival’s longstanding legacy. As she reflects on her enduring impact, Woolley takes pride in the relationships she has cultivated over the years, emphasizing the importance of creating memorable experiences and spreading positivity through her music.
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