One of Flin Flon’s leading voices in support of arts and culture has died.
Linda Allen, a long-time arts volunteer, organizer and benefactor, died Christmas Day after a life often spent in service to the things that made Flin Flon unique.
Allen was born and raised in Flin Flon and Creighton, leaving town after graduating from Hapnot to attend Success Business College in Winnipeg and graduating from there with honours before moving back up north.
In the time since, Allen became known for her advocacy of Flin Flon’s arts and culture scene and for various community groups. Allen held several posts with the Flin Flon Arts Council, including stints as the group’s president, vice-president and treasurer at different points in time. The Ham Sandwich theatre group was also near and dear to Allen, who was involved with the group for years. Allen also represented Manitoba arts and culture provincially with the Manitoba Arts Network and Manitoba Film and Music. In all, Allen would work with the Arts Council and associated groups for nearly three full decades.
Allen would often be seen at arts programs and shows, doing everything from taking tickets at the door to introducing the shows, being the first voice on the microphone to start the festivities - typically, when Allen had the mic in hand, the show was about to get underway. Allen would often take on leading roles offstage for the arts, including in organizing shows and coordinating costumes for major musical and theatrical productions.
Allen even made a guest appearance in the Flin Flon Community Choir’s online Christmas show this year, giving well-wishes to viewers and reading ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. The show premiered on Christmas Eve - just one day before Allen passed.
Allen was also a member of the Flin Flon and District Chamber of Commerce, often representing the Arts Council in Chamber business and coordinating business between the two groups. Other groups Allen was involved with include Flin Flon Band Parents, local Brownies and Guides, the Flin Flon Station Museum, various school organizations and the board of the Northminster Memorial United Church. A memorial service for Allen was held at the church Jan. 4.
Allen was 79 years old.
