by Bianca Moorman and S. Rotan Hale
As a playwright, musician, actor and producer Marshal McAden was a naturally talented force on the local scene. Over 100 supporters gathered Saturday, July 18 at Apple Ridge Farm (ARF) for the dedication of a new open-air stage that bears the name of the prolific thespian whose passing in Nov. 2010 left a hole in the local performing arts community.
On January 14, 2011, the Virginia House of Delegates passed Resolution 627–celebrating the life of Marshall B. McAden–a man who dedicated his life to raising people’s consciousness to the arts. The bill was introduced by then Delegate Onzlee Ware.
“He was such a talented person, it is only fitting to have such a contribution to him and his spirit that will live on,” said Peter Lewis during the dedication celebration that honored his dear friend and colleague.
Lewis founded the academic camp 35 years ago for the area’s underserved youth ages 6 to 16. Courses offered focus on enhancing reading, writing and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) skills as well as those that build character. The kids also have recreational activities like swimming, zip-lining, tennis and basketball. The camp also provides opportunities for kids to visit and tour different colleges.
Board of Directors chair Melinda Payne said the main job of the board is to make sure the organization’s mission statement thrives. “The mission is all about providing an opportunity for inner city kids to explore,” Payne said.
“Marshal would be there every summer and you could count on him to do his thing with the students…teaching them how to be good actors. He could command attention from the students,” she added.
Lewis however, proudly spoke of one of the organization’s major tenets– i.e. the desire to inculcate “old fashion” principles saying, “We practice four magic words at Apple Ridge, please, ma’am, thank you and sir. That is a crucial part in what we do here.”
McAden was a longtime staff member at Apple Ridge teaching drama classes plus basic communication and life skills. “He taught you how to articulate, how to speak, sit up straight, the importance of eye contact, a firm hand shake and not to slouch when sitting,” Lewis remarked.
He met McAden 16 years ago while attending church in Lexington to hear him sing. His grandfather was pastor of the church and McAden was the choir director.
Lewis’ wife Carla, a major ARF supporter, said she first met McAden when he was doing plays with the YO-YO Players (Youth On The Yard Outreach)–a local young theatre troupe from which 3 members reunited for the occasion to pay tribute singing “Henry Don’t Eat No Meat.” The signature song was one of Marshal’s favorites.
The dedication was bittersweet for Anthony Smith and family, who provided funding for the construction of the facility’s stage–built in 6 months by Edward Jones who joined the family at the celebration. Smith dedicated the stage to his parents, Mary and Robert Smith.
Kathy McAden Taylor, Marshal’s sister, and several other members of his family joined by his fourth grade teacher Anita Duckett-Wilson spoke personally about the honoree. Crowning the moment, his family unveiled a commemorative plaque bearing the honoree’s name along with others responsible for the venture’s completion.
“We must not let the talent from Roanoke go to waste… We had a jewel and we let him slip away,” said Rev. Lee Pusha referring to the honoree. “Roanoke lets good people go and be great somewhere else,” he added.
Payne complemented Lewis for his ambition as founder and his fundraising ability. As a nonprofit organization, Apple Ridge runs on funding from donors and community support.
Immediately following the dedication, Dr. Lloyd Hackley, an accomplished educator and former Roanoker, accompanied his daughter Dianna Hackley-Hunt who presented a brief but incredibly informative and energized seminar, “Developing Good, Smart and Successful Children.”
Hackley-Hunt is owner/operator of Little Champions–a newly established early learning center in northwest Roanoke.
McAden was an extraordinarily vibrant character that loved music and the event was highlighted with performances by various area groups. One of which involved Marshal’s nephew Brian McAden on keyboard. Additionally several selections by the “Celebration Choir” added a gospel flair. Also available was an abundance of free food, swimming and tours of the entire facility’s extensive grounds.
Lewis was extremely pleased at the turnout stating, “Marshal would be extremely happy about the dedication.”
The running theme of all who spoke testified to Marshal as someone who would do things without expecting pay because whatever he did was “for the Lord.” Lewis capping it responded, “Marshal would not ask, he would just do it.
In addition to the vast array of amenities and accommodations at Apple Ridge Farm, it is now home of the new open-air Marshal McAden stage–a well-crafted rustic foundation that is an impressive addition to this picturesque farm, situated in Copper Hill, VA.
