A Reunion in the Green Room

Sag Harbor resident Diane Lewis attended a performance of “Tales From the Guttenberg Bible” at Bay Street Theater last week that turned into a heartwarming reunion. The star and subject of the play, actor Steve Guttenberg, was a student of 91-year-old Lewis at his elementary school in Plainedge, New York.

The reunion took place after the show in the theater’s green room. Diane Lewis has held a special place in Guttenberg’s heart, not only as his elementary school teacher but also as a founding member of Plainedge Playhouse, a cherished live theater located in Bethpage, New York.

Years later, in the late 1980s Guttenberg, who had gained fame for his roles in iconic films, such as “Diner,” “Cocoon,” “Three Men and a Baby” and “Police Academy” discovered the existence of Plainedge Playhouse and the involvement of his beloved elementary school teacher in its operations. Overwhelmed with joy to learn that his hometown boasted a live theater and that his teacher was at the helm of the “show,” Guttenberg reached out to express his happiness and gratitude.

“I was thrilled at the opportunity to reconnect with my teacher, Mrs. Lewis,” Guttenberg expressed. “She not only imparted knowledge in the classroom but also played an instrumental role in fostering my passion for the arts. Plainedge Playhouse holds a special place in my heart, and the chance to reunite with Mrs. Lewis after all these years is truly a gift.”