Press Release

New Vista Theatre Honors
Sensational Senior
Leona Laper

Leona Laper was recently named The New Vista Theatre Company’s Sensational Senior 2008. She was bestowed the award by Commissioner Burt Aaronson during a ceremony prior to a performance of Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh

New Vista Theatre announced the call for nominations during the run of I’m Not Rappaport and received almost 100 letters from spouses, children and friends who wrote about the special senior in their life. “The themes of Rappaport inspired us to honor the older people in our community who quietly give of themselves to help others,” stated Avi Hoffman, Founder and Artistic Director of New Vista Theatre.

“Reading the many letters we received was an inspiring and humbling experience,” continued Hoffman. “When I read Gayle Denney’s letter about her mother, Leona Laper, I was initially deeply saddened by the tragedy that had befallen her family----a horrible car accident followed by a series of strokes had left Leona’s husband, Leon, blind and physically disabled. However by letter’s end, I was filled with a different emotion, beyond admiration, I felt empowered. Leona’s story instills us with a sense of strength, for she found in herself the ability to be the hero of her own life, the hero of her family’s life, and with the creation of her stroke support group, she had become a hero to so many in our community…providing them with the hope that they too will be able to turn their tragedies into triumph.”

Leona will receive a variety of wonderful prizes including a stay at a multi-million dollar penthouse at the Ocean Manor Resort in Ft. Lauderdale, dinner for two at Cucina D’Angelo in Boca Raton, a gift certificate to N. Reagan Spa in Delray, skin care products from Dr. Peter Ballas, and a fitness evaluation by Michael’s Body Scenes, as well as a subscription to the New Vista's 2008/2009 "Season of Musicals."  The second prize winner, Joyce Willig, will receive a subscription for two to New Vista’s 2008/2009 season and winners of the tie for third place, Frances Fischer and Arnie Rich, will each receive four tickets to the New Vista show of their choice.

“We are very grateful to all the wonderful sponsors of this event,” said Hoffman. “Leona and Leon are an amazing couple and we were delighted they will be able to enjoy these exciting prizes.”

For more information about The New Vista Theatre Company and their upcoming season of musicals, including Enter Laughing, The Producers and The Shop on Main Street, please visit www.newvistatheatre.com or call 888- 284-4633.


The New Vista Theatre Company Casts Kay Renz in Public Relations Role

(Boca Raton, Florida) March 31, 2008---- The New Vista Theatre Company, created by PBS star and acclaimed theater veteran Avi Hoffman, has retained Kay Renz Public Relations to spotlight their exciting 2008/2009 season which features Enter Laughing, The Producers and The Shop On Main Street. Kay Renz Public Relations will also work with the Boca Raton-based Theater on community endeavors to expand awareness of the new company’s programs and special events.

“I had seen Avi Hoffman on his highly-rated national PBS specials, Too Jewish? and Too Jewish, Two!, and really admired his talent,” states Renz. “Having the opportunity to work with him on his latest endeavor is truly an honor.  The New Vista Theatre Company is bringing exciting Broadway caliber productions to South Florida. The repertoire that Avi and his team stage each season is filled with entertaining and thought-provoking professional productions that offer South Floridians an amazing experience at a tremendous value.”

“Kay Renz was recommended to us because of her talent in promoting theatrical productions and increasing community awareness,” said Hoffman. “The New Vista Theatre is committed to bringing high-quality entertainment to South Florida and beyond and we are confident that Kay will spread the word about our plays and also help us facilitate community outreach. We are strong believers that theater stimulates thoughts and creates action for the good of our community, and this is something we are dedicated to achieving.”

About The New Vista Theatre Company: Created in 2006 by PBS star and acclaimed theater veteran, Avi Hoffman, The New Vista Theatre Company fills a unique entertainment niche. Each season, Hoffman and his talented team stage Broadway caliber performances of beloved plays and musicals such as The Sunshine Boys, Funny Girl and The Producers, while also debuting important new theatrical works such as The Rise of David Levinsky and The Shop On Main Street. Making the theater experience a regular experience for young and old is Hoffman’s goal.
Shows take place at the West Boca Performing Arts Center located at West Boca Raton Community High School, 12811 Glades Road, Boca Raton (Just 3 miles west of US 441).

For more information visit www.newvistatheatre.com or call 1-888-284-4633.
About Kay Renz Public Relations: KRPR is a full-service public relations and marketing firm specializing in the lifestyle, hospitality, cultural and charitable fields. For more information about Kay Renz Public Relations: http://www.kayrenzpr.com.