2026 Wall of Honor Inductions

Local Icons Ritter and McMillan inducted into BDACT Wall of Honor

The Beaver Dam Area Community Theatre (BDACT) proudly announces the induction of Earl Ritter and Jim McMillan into the BDACT Wall of Honor. Located in the lobby of the BDACT Fine Arts Center, the Wall of Honor recognizes individuals who have made monumental contributions to the leadership, growth, and artistic excellence of the organization. 

The Wall of Honor serves as a permanent tribute to the many dedicated individuals who have shaped BDACT into an award-winning community theatre through their dedication to directing, performing, production and mentorship.

Earl Ritter began teaching art in Horicon in 1964. He and a co-worker who was a music teacher decided they should try to put on a musical. The first show they produced was an unknown show called So this is Paris. Earl continued to direct one musical a year for 32 years. When Earl became a part of the Beaver Dam Area Community Theatre, he designed and helped paint sets. The first show he directed was Carousel, in 1990 and went on to direct eight productions. Ritter always wanted to direct West Side Story, and with the help of Donn Gasner it came to life in 1996. Beyond the stage, Earl was a member of the Beaver Dam Arts Association and served on the board. He enjoyed all his years with BDACT.

Reflecting on Earl Ritter’s lifelong dedication to the arts, his wife, Anita, said, “Thanks to all who made it possible and the audiences that attended. Community Theater is a great place to make friends.”

Jim McMillan joined BDACT in 1976 as part of the ensemble in My Fair Lady, presented at the Wisconsin Theater.  While in high school, Jim sang in the choir, performed in the operetta and attended a couple of BDACT shows where he decided that being on stage appealed to him, so he took the leap. Almost 50 years later, Jim has never looked back and is extremely proud of his ability to draw audiences to the theatre. An accomplished character actor, Jim loves to challenge himself to get the most out of any role and make audiences remember his performances. Some of Jim’s favorite roles include Pseudolus in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1988), Moonface Martin in Anything Goes (2018) and Charley in Death of a Salesman (2021). 

In addition to acting, Jim is involved in many aspects of BDACT including serving on the BDACT Board and directing several shows. Jim is proud to be part of BDACT’s growth and to serve as one of its most enthusiastic ambassadors. He stated that he is humbled and honored to be an inductee to BDACT’s Wall of Honor.