New Bedford’s Beloved Armand Marchand Inspired Generations

This story is perhaps the most difficult I can recall writing in quite some time. I seldom get writer's block, but I have struggled mightily with finding the proper words to say about a man so adored by a community he deeply loved. It all sounds so cliché.

Armand Marchand was not a crusader. He loved his life, teaching and the theater, and wanted to share his joy. Seemingly effortlessly, Armand lifted those around him, often young people, allowing them to find themselves, their dreams and the courage to pursue them.

READ MORE: Armand Marchand's Enduring Impact on Young SouthCoast Performers

Armand shared his public and private moments, successes and setbacks with his beloved husband and lifelong soulmate, George Charbonneau. But Armand and George were a team long before it was cool – or safe – to be "out." It was natural to them and inspirational to others.

I first met Marchand in September 1973 when I arrived at New Bedford High School after three years of driving teachers insane at Normandin Junior High. George's classroom was right next door to Armand's. I had both in my first year.

My first public stage performance was under the direction of Armand. My first visit to New York City and first Broadway production, Pippin, was a bus trip he organized.

READ MORE: New Bedford High's Little Theater Sparks Memories

You know Marchand's many accomplishments, from community theater to the amazing New Bedford High School Drama Club and the founding of New Bedford Festival Theater. His impact on the arts community throughout the northeast is immeasurable.

You no doubt recall seeing Marchand introduce a New Bedford Festival Theater production at the Zeiterion Theater or launch the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in downtown New Bedford while dressed in period attire.

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Armand Marchand suffered serious injuries in an accident in New York City earlier this month and passed away on Monday, June 24.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell said Marchand was a "truly beloved figure in our city."

"He devoted his life to the arts, inspiring generations of students in the New Bedford High School Theater program," Mitchell said. "He poured boundless energy, wit, charm, and kindness into the work, and the results were decades of unforgettable performances that reminded us all of the transformative power of the arts to shape young lives for the better."

Through the New Bedford Festival Theater, Mitchell said Marchand "brought Broadway-caliber productions to hundreds of thousands."

Mitchell says Marchand was "the city's most consequential arts figure in our lifetimes."

"He will be sorely missed," Mitchell said.

Longtime New Bedford City Councilor Brian Gomes will ask that a portrait of Marchand hang in the lobby of the newly refurbished Zeiterion Performing Arts Center when it reopens.

Gomes said Marchand was "not just an awesome educator" but "a beacon to theater arts productions in the city of New Bedford."