Reno Little Theater Blythe Awards

About the Blythe Awards

In 1994, when Don Stanke came up with the idea for the Blythe Awards, it had been some time since Reno Little Theater had had an annual banquet or awards program. Don, then a member of the Board of Directors, envisioned a very special tradition—Reno Little Theater's own Oscars—incorporating some of the fun, excitement, and suspense of that event.

The Blythe Awards also honor Blythe Bulmer, one of the founders of Reno Little Theater. Blythe starred in Reno Little Theater's first production, Three Cornered Moon in 1935, and remained active at the theater until her death. Rarely a season went by that she wasn't acting in or directing at least one production. Blythe served on the Board of Directors and as Chairman. She was the business manager for ten years and generally lent a hand whenever and wherever it was needed.

Before Reno Little Theater's fiftieth season in 1984, Blythe was asked how she felt about the theater's longevity. "I'm amazed," she said. "Little did we dream that it would last so long." When asked to predict Reno Little Theater's future, she replied, "I wouldn't dare. I can only say that I'd like to be around for the next 50 years and be amazed all over again!"