The Little Theatre of Walla Walla is made possible by the efforts of Volunteers. Each month, we will shine a spotlight on an individual who helps create magic at the Theatre possible.
Volunteer Spotlight: Robert G Randall
Robert G Randall has been deeply involved in the world of Walla Walla theatre since 1992, contributing his diverse talents to nearly every aspect of production and management at The Little Theatre. Over the years, Robert has taken on a wide variety of roles, including acting, singing, dancing, directing, and serving on the board—two terms as president and one as co-president. Beyond performance, Robert has honed technical skills such as lighting and sound design and has long been a dedicated member of the set-building crew and its communication lesion.
Robert’s passion for theatre extends to numerous committees, including HR, Development, Finance, Season Selection, Volunteer, and Marketing. He was also involved with major initiatives, such as planning a new expansion for The Little Theatre, which was unfortunately paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Robert’s educational background perfectly complements his theatrical pursuits. He graduated from Eastern Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, specializing in Theatre Management with emphasis in Directing and Stage Management – a unique degree combining business and theatre courses. During his time at the university, he served as Marketing Coordinator for University Theatre for two years.
Robert’s extensive theatre experience spans over 100 productions across the Walla Walla Valley, including performances at the Dayton Theatre, the Amphitheatre, the now-demolished China Pavilion, Cordiner Hall, and, of course, The Little Theatre. His passion for theatre was first ignited in college when he played multiple roles in a production of Guys & Dolls. Now, in a beautiful full-circle moment, Robert is Co-Directing Guys & Dolls at The Little Theatre, bringing his journey with the beloved musical to a new and meaningful chapter. The greatest part of it is he is getting to work with some of his very favorite people!
Outside the theatre, Robert enjoys going to movies and singing, though the stage remains his true love. Professionally, he has built a long-standing career in bookkeeping and technology, holding positions such as Director of Technology at Bur-Bee Foodservice, Bookkeeper and Office Manager at Blue Mountain Casino, and Finance Specialist at the Whitman College Bookstore and later in the Grants Department. Currently, Robert is channeling his expertise into launching his own bookkeeping business.
Robert’s family has been a cornerstone of his life. His mother, Kathy Randall, was actively involved with The Little Theatre for many years and has lived across the street for over a decade. His sister, Stephanie Bowdish, and her husband Jeremy have been especially supportive in recent years. Known affectionately as “Steph & Jer,” they have two children: Makayla, who is married to Brennan Kelso, and their beautiful daughter, Camron (Robert’s great-niece); and Shea, who is married to Emily. This close-knit family, alongside Robert’s extended network of relatives across the Walla Walla Valley, the west side of the mountains, and Florida, has provided him with a rich and loving support system.
This spring, Robert and his mother are relocating to Spokane to be closer to Stephanie’s family. While leaving Walla Walla—a place steeped in family history and filled with treasured memories—is bittersweet, Robert looks forward to the new opportunities that lie ahead.
In recent years, Robert has faced physical health challenges that have limited his ability to perform, which remains his first love. However, he has found immense fulfillment in directing and designing for The Little Theatre. As Robert says, “You haven’t seen the last of me yet!” He plans to maintain his connection to The Little Theatre community and looks forward to returning as a guest director, collaborating with his longtime friend, confidant, and creative partner, Cheryl Sutlick.
For Robert, theatre is more than a passion—it is a second family and a way of life that has brought him joy, purpose, and countless cherished relationships. As he prepares to begin this next chapter, Robert leaves his community with these parting words: “This is not goodbye, but simply, ‘See you later!’”