The National is Part of Our DC Heritage

Sheri’s parents, Dorothy and Martin Ratick, on their anniversary.
Man of La Mancha Playbill, 2002

Theatre is in my blood.  I have acted on and off since a little girl.  During this most difficult time I want to help keep the flood lights on, on stage.  Why the National – It’s part of our DC heritage.  And it holds special memories for me.  I remember for one of my parent’s wedding anniversaries I saved up to get tickets for them to see Man of La Mancha.  I called the box office and said I needed 2 seats, first row in the mezzanine, stage center.  Having seen the show in NY I knew these were the best seats.  I expected push back but instead the box office person was extremely kind and helpful.  She pulled exactly the seats I wanted and on my parent’s anniversary date.  I was so excited when they arrived.  It was a surprise for Mom and Dad.  They loved the show and the seat location.  The cost was a lot for me back then but my parents were worth it.  Since then there have been many celebrations at the National.  Hopefully my small donation will help to make sure that the theatre remains open for other families to experience a special celebration at the historic National.  

Sheri Stroud, Friends of the National Theatre Sustaining Member