Did you know that one of Philadelphia’s oldest and most beloved theatre traditions has deep ties to the Junior League of Philadelphia?
Since the 1950s, many JLP Members have taken their talents beyond community service and into the spotlight—joining The Savoy Company, the nation’s oldest amateur theater company dedicated to performing the comic operas of Gilbert and Sullivan. For decades, it wasn’t uncommon to see Active Members performing on stage or working behind the scenes, with several finding more than just artistic expression—many met their future spouses there, giving rise to the playful phrase coined by League Members: “Join Savoy, meet a boy!”
Fast forward to today, and the legacy continues.

This year’s production of The Mikado features five outstanding JLP Members:

• Shelly McMackin – Past Active President, Sustainer
• Bertina Whytehead – Sustainer
• Elizabeth “Betsy” Nelsen – Active Member
• Misty Palmer – Active Member
• Carolyn Hoehle – Active Member and New Member Advisor, who will also take on a lead role in the production

Their involvement is a beautiful reminder of the ways League Members continue to enrich the cultural fabric of Philadelphia—not just through service, but also through the arts.
You can catch this year’s performances of The Mikado at two iconic venues where The Savoy Company serves as a resident theatre company:
• May 9 and 10 – The Suzanne Roberts Theatre
• May 30 and 31 – Longwood Gardens
Whether you’re there for the music, the costumes, the witty librettos, or to cheer on your fellow League Members, it’s sure to be a show to remember.
Break a leg, ladies!