Larry was born on April 7, 1950 to Margaret Ann Buchanan Yates and Warren Grice Yates. During his childhood, his father’s work as a linguist took the family to Germany, Vietnam, and Thailand, giving Larry and his sister Jenny experience in living in other cultures and interacting with diverse people, especially at Bangkok Patana School.

 

In 1988, Larry moved to the Washington DC area, first to work for the National Low Income Housing Coalition for seven years, and then on to various other nonprofits, inlcuding the Center for Health, Environment and Justice. His focus was always on reaching out to grassroots people and helping them with advice and resources to empower themselves.

 

During the growth of Selah Theatre Project, Larry was one of the biggest Theatre Angels we have ever had. He made sure that not one child was left behind. With his movement in the arts, Selah Theatre Project was inspired to ensure that theatre accessibility live on the forefront of our purpose and drive.

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Larry passed away on December 30, 2020 leaving a whole in many hearts in this community. We honor him by carrying a scholarship fund for theatre youth  in need.