Welsbacher’s lasting influence

Unlike those academics whose impact is confined to campus, Dick Welsbacher practiced and promoted his discipline – theater – for all the community to see and enjoy during his 33 years at Wichita State University.

Welsbacher, who died Tuesday at 89, was an Ohio native who quietly attained legendary status in Wichita as he staged more than 150 productions and performed more than 200 roles before retiring as director of theater at WSU in 1991. Fittingly, WSU’s experimental theater at the Hughes Metropolitan Complex now bears his name.

Welsbacher’s mellifluous voice and kindly manner made him a go-to narrator and emcee as well, most notably for the Wichita Symphony Orchestra’s Riverfest and holiday concerts. He also found time to acquire film and TV movie credits.

Most remarkable of all, though, is how Welsbacher’s influence continues to ripple through the artistic life of Wichita and across stages far beyond it, forging the performances of those he instructed and inspired.

“Just keep it honest,” he’d tell actors.

The truth is that Welsbacher’s roles as mentor and cultural father figure are assured a long run.

For the editorial board, Rhonda Holman

This story was originally published July 16, 2015 at 7:06 PM with the headline "Welsbacher’s lasting influence."