Lloyd Richards, who gave life to the work of a young playwright named August Wilson, passed away on June 29, 2006.
For 32 years, Richards was the Artistic Director of the National Playwrights Conference, working hand in hand with playwrights such as John Patrick Shanley (Doubt), Wendy Wasserstein (The Heidi Chronicles, and Athol Fugard (The Island).
In particular, Richards is known for his work with August Wilson. He helmed productions of Wilson's plays, including Seven Guitars, Joe Turner's Come and Gone, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Two Trains Running and The Piano Lesson. He won the Tony Award for Best Direction for Wilson's Fences.
Richards was born in Toronto, but was raised in Detroit, Michigan. His mother lost her sight when he was a child, and he worked to help support his family. He also served in World War II, putting his studies on hold to serve his country.
Wendy C. Goldberg, who is the current Artistic Director of the National Playwrights Conference, said "Lloyd Richards' vision, passion, and nurturing of artists are the benchmarks of our work here at the O'Neill. As we embark upon the 42nd season of the National Playwrights Conference, we dedicate our work to his spirit - we are here because of him, and our work will be reflective of his energy and creativity. He will be profoundly missed."
Lloyd Richards was 87.
