At the Plaza Theatre, some of our most dedicated volunteers first find their way to us through their children, and Shelby Kilgore is a wonderful example! Shelby began volunteering during our summer 2025 production of Finding Nemo Jr., when her daughter Billy took the stage.

What started as an opportunity to support her daughter’s love of theatre has grown into a meaningful way to give back, build connections, and help bring the magic of live theatre to our community. From concessions to youth production workdays, Shelby is always happy to lend a hand wherever she’s needed!

How long have I been involved at the Plaza Theatre and what motivated me?
I began volunteering at the Plaza during Finding Nemo Jr. in the summer of 2025. My daughter Billy was in that production and also in Peter Pan Jr., which gave me the opportunity to get involved and support the theatre. I enjoy volunteering and supporting the programs at the Plaza, especially while sharing in my daughter’s experience.

What roles/tasks do I typically undertake?
I have worked concessions and helped with the parent workdays for the youth productions. I enjoy lending a hand wherever I can and being part of the behind-the-scenes effort that helps support these shows.

Most Memorable Experiences:
I love seeing the familiar faces in the youth productions. They have so much fun on stage and with each other, and it’s a joy to watch that enthusiasm and friendship shine through in their performances.

How has being involved with the Plaza Theatre impacted my life?
Volunteering was a big part of my life growing up, and I’m grateful to be able to give more of my time to organizations like the Plaza as my kids get a little older. I’m also serving as President of the El Campo Band Booster Club this year, so volunteering is a big part of my life right now! Being involved in and supporting organizations that bring people together and make a positive impact in our community is incredibly rewarding. It’s meaningful to continue that tradition of service and share its importance with my kids.

Advice to someone interested in volunteering:
My advice would be if you feel a connection to the Plaza, to simply get involved! Every little bit of time and effort makes a difference, and you don’t have to do it all to have an impact. Volunteering is a great way to meet people, build connections, and give back to your community. You may even find that you get just as much out of the experience as the organization you’re supporting! Plus, the productions are always so well done! It’s rewarding to know that, in your own way, you’ve helped make them possible.

For Shelby, volunteering is more than lending a helping hand. It’s a family tradition and an opportunity to show the next generation what community involvement looks like. Whether she’s supporting the Plaza or serving as President of the El Campo Band Booster Club, Shelby understands that even the smallest contributions can make a lasting difference.

We’re so grateful for the time, energy, and enthusiasm she brings to the Plaza family, and we’re proud to recognize her as our Volunteer Spotlight!

Thank you, Shelby, for helping make the Plaza a place where families, friendships, and a love of theatre can grow together.