In Memoriam: Greg Rumpf

​On April 23, 2021, the Port Tobacco Players community lost one of our brightest lights. Greg Rumpf was a longtime member of our family, performing onstage, pitching in backstage, and helping out anywhere and everywhere in between. Greg was a friend to everyone he met and was always willing to lend a hand however he could.
Greg first appeared on the PTP stage in Inherit the Wind in 2004, before playing Selsdon in Noises Off and the Duke of Norfolk in A Man for All Seasons. Following these productions, Greg memorably played Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, where he brought the house down with laughter at every performance.
Greg went on to stand out in The Producers and Assassins, playing multiple ensemble roles in both shows—most notably his hilarious Sabu and his jovial “Big Bill” William McKinley. But it was his turn as Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof where he got to show his full range as an actor, creating dramatic and emotional moments that were a balanced contrast to his comedic side. Greg was then seen on stage in Death by Chocolate and The Tempest, followed by his last role with the Players as Pontius Pilate in Jesus Christ Superstar in 2018.
Over the years Greg also performed in various one-acts with PTP and lent a hand to numerous shows backstage and in various technical roles. Greg designed props, helped build sets, worked running crew, and even designed masks and sculptures, but his true passion for photography and visual effects was in the spotlight when he served as headshot photographer and visual/special effects designer for countless shows. He even earned a WATCH nomination as part of the special effects team for The Who’s Tommy.
It was always exciting to see Greg's name on a cast list or audition form. He was the definition of a team player, always raising up those around him and supporting the production in any way possible. He may not have looked it but he was the greatest cheerleader you could know. He was the friendly face in the audience supporting his friends, no matter the endeavor. He was also an incredible talent. For instance, he was so excited to play Tevye, bringing so much love and humor to that role. 
Greg’s contribution to PTP will live on in every story that is told, every memory recounted, and every photo we look back on fondly. Live theater is fleeting in that it is only here for a moment, but our love for Greg will hold strong forever.

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