10/23/2026
The South Arkansas Arts Center family is heartbroken by the sudden passing of our dear friend, Abby Cate.
For more than three decades, Abby was part of the life of SAAC. From Into the Woods in 1993 to Legally Blonde and Rumors in 2026, we have already found 20 productions that were made brighter by her presence—and we suspect there are still more stories, shows, and memories waiting to be uncovered.
She gave just as generously when she wasn’t onstage. Abby volunteered countless hours, served on our Theatre Steering Committee, and continually offered her time, talent, encouragement, and enthusiasm to the arts, to this community and to each of us, personally and intentionally.
But no list of productions, committees, or volunteer hours could adequately describe what Abby meant to this place.
Abby had a light about her. She brought joy into a room and gave it freely to fellow performers, volunteers, audiences, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Her warmth drew people in, her laughter was unforgettable, and whether she was standing beneath the stage lights or helping make something happen behind the scenes, she made SAAC a brighter, happier place simply by being here.
Community theatre has a remarkable way of turning the people who walk through its doors into family. Abby was family.
We are profoundly grateful for more than 30 years of rehearsals, performances, meetings, volunteer hours, laughter, friendship, and memories. Her impact on the South Arkansas Arts Center, on our community, and on the people who love her reaches far beyond anything we could ever fit into a single post.
Our hearts are with Abby’s family and the many, many people who love her.
The stage, our community, and our world are a little dimmer without her light in them, but the joy Abby gave us—and the light she brought to this place for more than three decades—will remain part of SAAC always.
We love you, Abby.
