Friday, Jan. 09, 2009

Erika Townsend leaves Modesto opera company her husband founded

Four months after the death of Townsend Opera Players founder Erik Buck Townsend, his widow has retired from the organization.

Erika Townsend, business manager for the Modesto troupe since its founding in 1983, left Monday. Her departure means no one with the Townsend name remains with the group.

In an e-mail to The Bee, Townsend said "it was simply time."

"(Buck and I) worked 24/7 for over 25 years to build a stable, creative, educational and professional venue for artistic opportunities in opera," she said. "We wanted to share our love of opera with our community, Buck's hometown, and give everyone an opportunity to experience the excitement of an alternative entertainment form. We are particularly proud of our youth program and the fine singers and teachers we helped shepherd."

Townsend was responsible for bookkeeping, marketing, public relations and general business matters. Her duties will be parceled out among several staff members, said Executive Director Matthew Buckman.

Townsend plans to continue teaching ballet at Modesto's Dance Academy, where she has worked more than 18 years. She will spend more time with her daughter and grandchildren, participate more in the Kiwanis Club, take some classes and read the stack of books piling up on her bedside table, she said.

"I think TOP is doing great," Townsend said, praising the remaining staff members.

Buckman said Townsend will be missed.

"Townsend Opera Players is deeply grateful to Erika, both for what she has done for the company and the community," he said. "Buck and Erika worked tirelessly for 26 years to provide a valuable arts organization for this community, and their efforts are now validated by the strong organization they have left behind.

"I join our community in thanking Erika for all she has done and wish her and her family the best with her retirement."

Carl Bengston, board president, said he expected Townsend to leave but is still sad about her departure.

"This is the second punch to the gut," he said. "The first one was Buck's passing, which has been difficult. Now Erika leaving is also going to be tough for the community."

Coincidentally, Bengston is leaving, too. He will begin commuting to Southern California during the week for a new job as dean of learning and library resources at Cerritos College. He will return to his family in Turlock on weekends.

Buckman said TOP will keep the Townsend name despite the departure of the last Townsend family member.

That came as good news to Erika Townsend, who wanted the company to continue to honor its founder.

Bee arts writer Lisa Millegan can be reached at lmillegan@modbee.com or 578-2313.