Harry Lewis Woods

WAMEGO-  Harry Lewis Woods passed away August 31, 2020 in the presence of his family and friends.  He was born in Soda Springs, Idaho on March 7, 1947 to Joseph B. and Hazel (Bell) Woods.  Shortly after Harry’s birth, they moved back to Cheyenne, Wyoming where Harry grew up and graduated from Cheyenne Central High School.  His love of the theatre began in adolescence and he acted in many high school drama productions.  After graduation, he went to Arizona State University for his freshman year before transferring to the University of Wyoming and completing a degree in Theatre. 

 Harry enjoyed moving around and worked in many different states.  Harry held several different jobs throughout his life, but the theatre was always the most enjoyable.  He worked at the University of Kansas theatre department for several years and was the Coordinator for the Fine Arts Programs in the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Wyoming.  It was while in Laramie, that Harry Woods the person, became Harry Woods the character.  Harry was interviewed by the writers of the The Laramie Project and his experiences became a character in the play.  Harry became forever a part of that production. 

Harry later worked as the Managing Director for Cheyenne Little Theatre Players, an organization with which he spent much time throughout his life in both acting and directing.  Past directing credits include Angels in America, Brigadoon, Love Letters, The Foreigner and Man of La Mancha.  Harry also served several years as a judge for the Wyoming Educators of Secondary Theatre State Drama Festival.

In April 2012, Harry moved to Crested Butte, Colorado and became the director for the Crested Butte Mountain Theatre.  Harry brought his optimism and passion to Crested Butte.  He quickly found a community of love who cherished the theatre.  Harry acted and directed in many productions and enjoyed helping those who have never acted before find their spot on the stage.  Harry was a member of the creative district and was a big supporter of all the arts.  Some of his most memorable moments were the productions of Oliver, Cabaret, Annie and of course The Laramie Project. 

Harry enjoyed the outdoors, wildlife, live theatre and spending time with his friends and family.  Harry is survived by his sister, Elaine J. (Woods) Patterson and husband Willis of Riverton, Wyoming and his nephew Cody Patterson and wife Katie Fitzpatrick of Wamego, Kansas.  Harry’s wishes were to be cremated and returned to the beautiful state of Wyoming to rest forever.  Harry encourages those reading this to support their local community theatre and become involved.