William J. Vincent "Vince" BARBEE

Vince was my first true love. I met him when I was around 15 yrs old at NCSA. I had not thought of him in many years but when I heard of his passing all of the tender and super fun moments that we spent together so long ago came flooding back. To me that speaks to how kind and genuine he truly was. I feel blessed to have known him in such a special way though in the grand scheme of things it was only briefly. He will forever live on in my memory. Loving thoughts to all who knew him.

Vince was a great guy. I was always happy to work with him, but I´ll remember him most fondly for the warmth and support he showed a young conductor jumping into the pit for his first ever ballet performance . I´ve had a lot of performances since then, but the witty, funny and friendly conversations I had with him before and after those first times with the National ballet will remain with me forever. Thanks Vince and Godspeed - Nate

I´m so sorry to hear this news. I only met Vince a handful of times but those times were memorable. I think what struck me most was his sense of wicked humor and ability to make you feel as if you knew him for many years. He was not a snobby artist, despite his many outstanding talents that could have qualified him as one. My deep condolences to his family and friends. - Laura