2012 STONEHAM THEATRE MARATHON RUNNERS

Six amazing individuals have committed to running the 26.2 miles of the Boston Marathon on April 16, 2012 to support an organization they believe in - the Stoneham Theatre.

Follow their training at www.teamstonehamtheatre.wordpress.com.

Rebecca Brennan-Laird

Favorite Show: Wicked
Favorite Stoneham Theatre Show: Twilight of the Golds or Sparrow
Nike, New Balance or Other: Asics all the way!

I took up running in 2001 so that I would have the strength and energy to keep up with my two boys. I ran my first marathon in Maine in 2003 and ran the Boston Marathon in 2004. Since then, I have been running half-marathons as my race of choice, with my most recent being the Applefest last October. I have been a supporter of the Stoneham Theatre since it opened its doors in 2000, first as a subscriber and Guild Member, and then as a Member of the Board of Trustees and the Auction Committee. Stoneham Theatre and running are two of my favorite things so when they asked me to run to raise money and awareness for the theatre, I, of course, said yes!

Rick Corapi

Favorite play/show: Rat Pack
Favorite Stoneham Theatre show: It's a Wonderful Life
Nike, New Balance or Other: Asics

I turned 50 this year and, having been inspired by this world renowned Boston Marathon race for years, have always wanted to run it. Well, they don't say nifty at fifty for nothing! This is my first marathon, and I look forward to making the trek from Hopkinton to Boston, and supporting Stoneham Theatre and its mission along the way. I am grateful for this opportunity to fulfill a lifelong goal and make a difference with a cause close to my heart. The Theatre is an amazing resource to Stoneham and the surrounding communities for children interested in performing and adults interested in the arts.

Mat Gagne

Favorite play/show: Les Miserables
Favorite Stoneham Theatre Show: Gaslight
Nike, New Balance or Other: Brooks (and I even bought some Brooks running gear to match! Who knew getting the right equipment could be interesting and fun for a total non-shopper!)

I am supportive of local, high quality theatre and Stoneham Theatre is my local, high quality theatre. I am impressed with the dedication of its founders, staff, performers and audiences in bringing entertainment and education to people 8-80! I wanted to mark my 41st year by doing something meaningful and giving back to my community as thanks for the good times in my life. I also want to make sure I stay healthy so that I have many, many more good times! This seemed like a great way to do both: run for something I truly believe in, and get healthy, for the benefit of myself and my family. As a supporter and performer in the arts, dedicating myself to such a great cause is the perfect fit.

Melissa Symes Patalano

Favorite play/show: Sound of Music
Favorite Stoneham Theatre Show: Sweepers
Nike, New Balance or Other: Totally Nike!

This will be my second Boston Marathon and my third marathon in a year. I joined Team Stoneham Theatre last year for the 2011 marathon because I wanted to help raise money for the young company, and I wanted to complete a marathon. Since then I have run Chicago. Not my best race ever - actually, pace-wise, my worst. So, here I am again, back to raise money for a cause I truly believe in and hopefully beat both my previous marathon times. Last year, we trained in one of the worst winters we have seen in a long time. Fingers crossed it's not as bad this year.

Landers Symes

Favorite Show: Christmas Carol
Favorite Stoneham Theatre Show: Marathon !!!!
Nike, New Balance or Other: Nike

Off we go again. From what started as an idea to help our family through some difficult times, this run has really grown into a great show of support for Stoneham Theatre. As we start training for the third trip from Hopkinton to Boston, Gavin will be in my thoughts and I know we have done a world of good for the Theatre, especially the kids who participate in all of their programs. And, of course, I need to beat Weylin again!

Weylin Symes

Favorite Show: Never More
Favorite Stoneham Theatre Show: The Old Man and the Sea
Nike, New Balance, or Other: Saucony

After running Boston in 2009, I missed last year due to foot surgery. I'm excited to be back this year (although I'm praying for a mild winter). I can't thank the rest of the team enough for running on behalf of Stoneham Theatre. What a great way to fulfill a personal goal while supporting such a valuable community organization. I'm also happy to be running again with my brother, Landers, as part of the team. He holds the Stoneham Theatre marathon record: I want it!

John Hancock 2012 non