YOUR HUMBLE SERVANT IN THE THEATRE, DARRYL MAXIMILIAN ROBINSON, SHARES SOME BELATED AND SAD NEWS REGARDING A RESPECTED AND IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTOR TO CHICAGO'S AFRICAN-AMERICAN PROFESSIONAL THEATRE COMMUNITY!
Every year at this time ( usually mid-August ) I am always delighted to read the list of local Windy City African-American talents who have been honored with The Annual Black Theatre Alliance / Ira Aldridge Awards nominations as well as Special Recognition Honors provided by a well-versed performing arts BTAA Judging Committee and the BTAA's President and Founder, the irrepressible and always enthusiastic Mr. Vincent E. Williams.
This year, however, this staple of Chicago's Performing Arts Community ( named in honor of the late, great 19th-century African-American British Shakespearean thespian Ira Aldridge ) has suffered an immeasurable loss.
Mr. Vincent E. Williams, who for nearly 30 years faithfully and diligently served as the inspiration and driving force of this well-known, local arts organization, passed away earlier this year on April 19, 2023. Mr. Williams was 64. He will most certainly be missed by his friends, family and all those ( and there are many ) who were touched by the fine and well-deserved honors he and his highly-regarded organization bestowed upon literally hundreds of creative and performing artists throughout the greater African-American Arts Community since 1995.
Your humble servant only recently became aware of Mr. Williams' passing, but is happy to be one of many who salute his longtime commitment to honoring the contributions of African-American Artists to The Greater Chicago Professional Theatre Community.
Rest In Power, Mr. Williams.
Here is a link to a story regarding Mr. Williams' much appreciated life and work provided by his fellow Theatre Alums at Chicago's Columbia College.
https://blogs.colum.edu/theatre/2023/05/02/colu...
And for additional commentary:
http://www.lovehardbikeride.or...
https://theatreblogofdarrylmax...
https://patch.com/illinois/chi...
On Monday September 18, 2023 at 7:30 pm, there will be an evening of scenes, songs and heartfelt testimonials in memory of Vincent E. Williams. This Night of Remembrance for Vincent E. Williams will be held at:
National Women Veterans United, 8620 South Pulaski Road, Lower Level, Chicago, Illinois 60652.
Tickets to this event are $15.00 person and can be ordered and reserved at this link:
https://events.eventnoire.com/...
Attend and show support if possible.
https://chicagoreader.com/arts...
Peruse these articles and remember.
