As the US Army Europe Entertainment Director, I first became aware of Liz Winkler’s onstage talents in 1995, when she was one of four stars in the Stuttgart Theatre Center’s production of Spoon River Anthology. We had instated an annual Army Europe One Act Play Festival, a training program for community theatre practitioners. As adjudicated by a team of critics that included the celebrity Charles Nelson Reilly, the show won Best Play.
This was the first of many times I experienced Liz’s dedication and exemplary spirit of volunteerism. Happily, I often had the opportunity to see her exceptional teamwork on- and off-stage. Over the years, Liz donated thousands of hours of her time to produce, direct, provide logistical support, and participate in performances that directly benefitted soldiers, their families, DoD civilians and host nation guests. She was an integral part of giving folks the “gift” of live entertainment.
I watched her growth over time in leadership areas, as she sought out training and education, and developed into a poised director, who inspired and unified her creative teams. Her success was admired and respected. As one of my last official acts before retiring from Army Entertainment, it was my pleasure to commend her and present her with a 1st Place Best Director Award for the Kent R. Brown drama, Hope ‘N Mercy.
Liz was always a great community partner, with a fine intellect and healthy curiosity, and she proved an excellent cultural ambassador. I am certain she would bring these qualities to any situation or position.