Fred was someone I only knew for a few years, but in those few years did more to encourage me as an artist than many other people in my adult years. When I couldn’t find a place to hold a reading of my play, he opened up the doors to Theo. He was the first person to offer me a directing gig in the city. He hired me for The Threepenny Opera hardly knowing who I was at all but just said, “I had a feeling about you.” And he just spilled years of stories and advice and anecdotes and wit out to us, so excited to get to share his life with us. He was a good sweet friend who made me laugh. When I told him I wasn’t going to be hired for the parts I’m right for til I’m a little older he asked why. I told him ‘because I’m really a character actor but when people look at me they just see a sweet pretty face,’ and with the most expert of timing, not missing a beat, he just shrugged and said, “well you’re not that pretty.” *chefs kiss* I was so excited every time I got to see him because I knew he was there for me, to encourage me, champion me, make me laugh, share a story, and to talk about theatre. The last time I talked to him on the phone he offered me a directing job that I couldn’t take because of “Angels in America” and a play in New York in the fall. We were both disappointed, but he just said “I’m so happy your dreams are coming true.” I told him I couldn’t wait for him to see “Angels” and he told me neither could he. And he’ll be there. Front row. ❤️❤️ Rest in peace, sweet Fred