Lynsay Jonker, Protea Stage Productions chairperson, writes:

Our hearts are heavy with grief as we bid farewell to a remarkable woman and a cherished member of the Protea Stage family, Sandra Taferner.

For years, Sandra was the calm in the backstage chaos as the amateur theatrical troupe’s continuity lady, problem-solver, caregiver and friend.

While audiences were captivated by what was happening on stage, she was working behind the scenes, making the magic of theatre possible.

Sandra had an incredible gift for keeping track of every cue, entrance and child, ensuring that no one missed their moment to shine.

She mastered the impossible art of quick changes, often helping several cast members at once, working tirelessly and selflessly with a smile on her face.

No challenge was ever too big and no task too small; Sandra simply stepped in wherever she was needed.

What made her extraordinary was not just what she did, but who she was.

Sandra gave endlessly to others.

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Her kindness, generosity, patience and unwavering willingness to help touched the lives of so many children, parents and fellow theatre-makers.

She gave her heart to those around her, expecting nothing in return.

The backstage area will never be the same without her.

Her presence, laughter, caring nature and dedication will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

We thank Sandra for every costume change, reassuring word, helping hand and act of love to the Protea Stage-family.

Your legacy lives on in the lives you touched and the memories we will treasure forever.

Rest peacefully. Your final curtain call may have come, but the impact you made will remain with us always.

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