In memoriam: Ann Baxter

In loving memory of Ann Baxter

1950 - 2014

Our dear friend and company stage manager

"Ann Baxter was much more than a stage manager to Encompass Productions. Ever the consummate professional, her dedication to the craft was invaluable to us during my time directing 'Who Is Moloch?' and I was extremely honoured to assist her in stage managing 'Life in a Sketchbook'. She approached every rehearsal and every show with not only expert technical prowess, but also with an amicable and genuine warmth toward her colleagues. She had an undeniable passion for theatre which reverberated throughout the productions she worked on. Her sheer diligence and commitment to the work will serve as an everlasting example to us all. She had a natural ability for stage management yet she made it seem so effortless and undoubtedly inspired. She had become a true friend of ours, for which we will always be grateful. It was my absolute pleasure to know her, and having worked with her so closely I will sorely miss her and will never forget everything she has done for me and with me. It gives me the utmost pride to pay tribute to Ann and I sincerely hope it serves her memory as well as she has served our company."

Zuri Warren, director - Who Is Moloch?

"I'm really at a loss as to what to say about Ann Baxter, as she was still so full of life, and has left us far too early.

I first met Ann when she swept in to deputy stage manage Encompass' second stage play 'Who Is Moloch?' which I associate directed. From the off I liked her! On a professional level she was proactive, a good listener, diplomatic, a real problem solver, and passionate about the project, and Encompass as a whole. She was a godsend on that show, hence why she's worked with us ever since.

On a personal level, Ann was very funny, witty, wise, caring, and one hell of a party animal! She'd often be recounting a drunken tale at one of our many company parties, followed by passing out on the sofa. Legend. 

I will miss Ann, as a colleague,  and as a friend. Thank you Ann x"
Rachael Owens, associate artistic director

Ann receiving thank you gifts for 'Life in a Sketchbook'

"I didn't get the privilege of working with Ann directly, but I could see the impact she had on our company. Always prepared and ready to help, she was a big part of the shows she worked on. I did however know Ann when we were able to let our hair down and she was always an awesome part of our parties too. Always up for some laughs and a drink, Ann made my night on several occasions."
Liam Fleming, creative producer

Ann with the cast of 'Life in a Sketchbook'

"Ann joined Encompass Productions in 2012,  deputy stage managing 'Who Is Moloch?' before stage managing 'Life in a Sketchbook', thereafter continuing to help out Encompass operations. She was an exemplary colleague who brought much hard work, joy and kindness to the Encompass team.

Ann was exactly the kind of person that I wanted to work with when founding the company two years before she joined. Someone who had a great work ethic, a passion for her craft and a dedication to those around her. She served as a constant personal inspiration to me, always knowing how to take action when required, always knowing the right words to say when encouragement was needed. Some of my fondest memories are of us sitting over coffee and talking about our love for what we do and where Encompass could go next. This is a tough industry, but Ann was one of those people that could instantly put anyone at ease, whether it be through her work or through a simple smile.

Our manifesto states that Encompass stands for three things: ambition, inclusion and accomplishment. Ann perfectly and effortlessly embodied all of these and she will be dearly missed. Thank you Ann, for everything."
Jonathan Woodhouse, artistic director

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