Dear Katie,

Your show tonight was amazing. : )

I know how difficult the situation with Keith has been and first of all, I’m so proud of you for sticking with it. Keith is lucky to have you as his SM, even if he doesn’t realize it. Anyone else that he could have called upon to do your job would have walked out on him long ago (and for good reason). This would have left the show in shambles; Katie R. would have been terrified at having to call a show she wasn’t comfortable with; the actors would have suffered even more unnecessary suffering, both from the wrath of Keith and from an inexperienced ASM calling the show. As some one who enjoys working in the theatre so much, I hope to one day be able to act as SM with half the talent you have. Don’t let Keith’s negative opinions, insults, and overall inappropriate behavior bring you down. You’re are perfectly capable of being a wonderful stage manager. You certainly belong in the theatre. Thanks for a great night of entertainment. : )

Best of luck and God Bless!

-Court

P.S.
Just so you know, I wanted to congratulate you tonight on a job well done, but I was afraid my cheerful congratulations regarding a show you’re so frustrated with would seem like I initially lacked confidence in your ability to do your job. That definitely wasn’t the case, and I didn’t want this impression to be something else added to your plate.