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Julie Lynn Groenwald
(December 2, 1979 – March 28, 2004)
NRRCT sadly
announces the passing of our
friend and fellow thespian who lost her battle with cancer on March
28th, 2004.
Julie was 15 years old when she first joined NRRCT as a dancer and
one of the mayor's daughters in The Music Man. She had a great time
with the NRRCT theater group and made many new friends, so she came
back for the fall show, Murder Mystery, again as a dancer.
Julie further honed her talents dancing with her high school dance
company (Eurhythmics), singing with high school choral groups
(Madrigals), participating in the contemporary worship choir at her
church, and even landing some professional singing jobs.
But Julie always came back to North Riverside. In 2000, Julie and
her brother, Peter, joined the cast of Joseph and the Amazing
Technicolor Dreamcoat. Throughout Joseph, Julie was always willing
to offer advice or spend some extra time with someone who just
wasn't quite getting the moves. Behind the scenes, she helped fellow
cast members style their hair and properly apply their makeup. By
the time the performances of Joseph had ended, Julie not only made
new lifelong friends, but she made a name for herself as a talented
performer and teacher.
Shortly after Joseph, Julie landed a job working for Royal Caribbean
International. As the featured female singer on "The Enchantment of
the Seas", Julie performed in multiple extravagant costumes, sang a
wide variety of songs, and danced with a group of extremely talented
performers.
After sailing the high seas for six months, Julie returned home. She
first performed with the Pheasant Runner Dinner Theater in Jekyll &
Hyde and then returned to North Riverside Community Theater to play
"Kim" in Bye Bye Birdie. Her best friend in real life, Christina
Kuckie-Roberts, played her best friend in the show (Ursula Merkle).
After returning for another six-month stint with Royal Caribbean,
Julie and Christina worked together on NRRCT's October, 2004
production of You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown. Christina was the
Assistant Director and also assisted Julie, the show's
choreographer. Julie also played the role of Sally.
Julie and Christina planned to co-choreograph NRRCT's spring 2004
show, Mame. But shortly before auditions, Julie was diagnosed with
the terminal cancer - stage 4 malignant melanoma. Sadly, Julie
didn't make it to see a performance of Mame. She passed away at home
on Sunday, March 28th, Mame's opening weekend. At her side were her
mother, father, and brother.
We will miss Julie's friendship, talent, energy, and vibrant
personality.
Music Is The Love of Your Life Award
Julie's family has set up a memorial fund in her honor. The yearly
award will be given to a Lyons Township graduate who shares Julie's
talents and ideals. Any donations would be appreciated.
Mail to:
Make checks
payable to:
LTHS Julie Groenwald Music Honor
Mail to:
Lyons Township High School
Attn: College Office
100 S. Brainard
LaGrange, IL 60525
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