Remarkable Women Working in Theatre

Seeing Lisa Byrd on the cover and the accompanying article by Molly Beth Brenner ["Sisters Under the Scrim," Sept. 12] prompts me to write. I submit that these talented women represent the tip of the iceberg of women working behind the scenes in Austin. This is something that makes me proud to live and work here.
   When I began touring with the Joffrey Ballet 17 years ago, it was rare to see many women on a stage crew (except in wardrobe). I will never forget the excitement and dismay over a woman carpenter at City Center in New York. Back home in Austin, IATSE Local 205 already had several skilled female stagehands and projectionists in its ranks. Lisa Byrd was one of them.
   Today, 18% of the members of Local 205 are women. Many have followed the trail blazed by members like Lisa Byrd, as well as others such as Mary Nelson, currently the production manager at the Paramount Theatre, and Rita Kelso, wardrobe supervisor for past productions of the Austin Musical Theatre.
   Thank you for spotlighting these remarkable women.