It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of Jerry Friedman due to Covid 19 complications. Jerry was one of the three founders of Theatre Three. He leaves behind a legacy of over 50 years as a beloved member of the theatre community, and he impacted the theatrical lives of many of us in ways too numerous to mention. Jerry began his theatrical ventures as a director of shows at the Brookhaven Labs, where he worked as a mathematician.

In 1970 the name and company were incorporated as Theatre Three Productions. He organized a group that performed at a Smithhaven Mall storefront known as the Smithhaven Ministries. Jerry stepped down as Executive Artistic Director and handed the title and responsibilities to me when he decided to change his career to psychology and became a counselor. Theatre Three eventually moved into the historic building in which it now resides.

He remained with the company as a director of countless Mainstage productions (FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY, SWEENEY TODD, FOLLIES, MAN OF LA MANCHA, to name a few), Second Stage productions, and cabaret shows for many years until he moved to NYC. There he established a talent booking Agency, J & R Productions. He brought back to our Griswold's Cabaret a summer season of top NYC Cabaret performers.

Jerry's dedication to the arts influenced his family as well. His Granddaughter, Julie Friedman, has played Want in Theatre Three's production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL for the past two years. He is remembered as a director, mentor, supporter of the Arts, and a genuinely kind, generous, dear friend who leaves us all with memories of our theatre encounters with him that makes us grateful, makes us proud, makes us laugh, and makes us sad by the loss of this influential, beloved soul. On a very personal level, he totally shaped my life in theatre, introduced me to Marci, and was the Godfather of our son.

A Zoom uplifting remembrance gathering is being planned within a few days. If you wish to join us or know of anyone, please text me your email at (631) 897-5155, and I will send you the information and the Zoom link.

Bradlee Bing
Former Theatre Three Executive Artistic Director
Current Member Theatre Three Board of Directors

 

The family asks, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Jerry's memory to Theatre Three.
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