The Plaza Theatre, Inc. in Wharton, Texas, proudly recognizes Henry Baade for his 20 years of dedicated service as a member of its Board of Directors. Henry officially retired from the board following the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Membership, held Monday, November 10.

Photo caption: (From left to right) Theatre Manager Quinn Wrench, retiring Board Member Henry Baade, and Board President Henri-Ann Nortman during the presentation of a commemorative plaque at The Plaza Theatre’s 2025 Annual Meeting of the Membership.

During his two decades of volunteer leadership, Henry served many years as the Vice President of Operations, where his expertise and engineering background proved invaluable to the continued improvement and preservation of the historic Plaza Theatre building. His leadership guided several major projects, including:

• The weatherization of the theatre building to improve energy efficiency and comfort,
• The structural repairs to the front marquee and exterior façade, preserving the theatre’s iconic downtown presence, and
• The expansion of the Stage Door area, which enhanced the lobby space and added much-needed restrooms for patrons.

Henry’s thoughtful stewardship and hands-on approach helped ensure that the Plaza remains a safe, functional, and welcoming home for live theatre and community events for years to come.

Henry and his wife Mary Baade have also been steadfast supporters of the Plaza, attending productions, lending their time to fundraisers, and championing the theatre’s role as a community arts hub.

At the Annual Meeting, Henry was presented with a commemorative plaque by Board President Henri-Ann Nortman and Theatre Manager Quinn Wrench in appreciation of his service.

“Henry has been a pillar of strength and reliability for the Plaza Theatre for the past two decades,” said Henri-Ann Nortman, President of the Board of Directors. “His passion, professionalism, and quiet leadership have made an immeasurable impact on our organization. We are deeply grateful for his service and know that both he and Mary will continue to be familiar faces and dear friends around the Plaza.”

The Plaza Theatre extends its heartfelt thanks to Henry for his remarkable dedication and contributions to preserving Wharton’s treasured community theatre.