Whimsicality Theatre for Young Actors Loses Beloved Producer

Watertown lost an icon on Thursday, April 17 when Denise Brown passed away after a valiant fight against ovarian cancer. Ms. Brown was the former Watertown High School Field Hockey Coach and was beloved by many residents.

Last month over 1000 runners took off from Polk School in Watertown during The Shamrock Shuffle Road Race. The proceeds from the race benefited Ms. Brown.       

Click here to watch a video of the Shamrock Shuffle by the Rep-Am.

Ms. Brown had also been involved with Whimsicality Theatre for Young Actors for the past seven seasons. She described herself on Facebook as "Producer/PianoPlayer/Set Builder/Sound Man/ Crowd Control" of the acting company for students. Her daughter Devin Brown serves as the director of Whimsicality's annual musicals. On April 10, Whimsicality's spring production of My Son Pinnochio opened at Watertown High School and their producer was able to attend and watch the students involved show off their talents.

The heartfelt expressions of sympathy from both the theater and the sports communities immediately began to appear on social media. Those who knew her described her as a kind, gentle, caring, loving and strong lady and despite her stature, many looked up to her.  That was definitely my experience whenever I attended a Whimsy production; she was always there to encourage the young actors and pit musicians in their pursuit of excellence. She was also a bundle of energy who clearly adored her daughter Devin.  

"Day after day, Wishing all our cares away. Trying to fight the things we feel, But some hurts never heal." These are lyrics to a song from Denise Brown's favorite show Next to Normal.

Watertown High School senior Christine Manalo wrote of her beloved producer:

"A standing 'O' for the Lady, one of the strongest people I have EVER been blessed to have met in my life. 'We need some light, first of all we need some light.' Denise, these lights will guide your way home tonight, and all of the voices sing high just for you. You've been our biggest fan, our biggest supporter, the handy-dandy woman, and the best hug giver I HAVE EVER MET. I'm needing a Denise hug extra hard right now, and I'm especially sending an Asian hug to you right now."

Condolences to Devin and the rest of the Brown family. Rest in peace, Denise. You will be greatly missed.