Ted Kazanoff

KAZANOFF, Ted Dies at age 90, Noted Actor, Director, Teacher of Theatre Arts Theodore Leon Kazanoff, Brookline, MA. was born August 30, 1922 in New York City to Sarah (Goldfarb) and Aaron Kazanoff. Ted passed away October 21, 2012 at the age of 90 in Austin, Texas, only weeks after the death of his beloved wife of 66 years, Lee Kazanoff. Devoted and loving parents, Ted and Lee raised 3 children, Mark, Paul, and Eve. They are survived by their son, Mark, and by their grandchildren, Kara, Lily, and Aaron. Though they lived in New England most of their lives, in their later years Ted and Lee also maintained a small apartment in Austin, Texas, so they could spend a lot of time with their grandchildren. Raised in the Bronx, Ted attended Dewitt Clinton High School. He then enlisted in the Military and served as a First Sargent in World War II, where he saw action in the Philippines. He graduated from City College of New York, received a graduate degree from Smith College, and went on to a long and successful career as an actor, director, and teacher of Theatre Arts. Ted worked at many schools including Columbia University, University of California at Berkeley, Carnegie Mellon University, Bennington College Boston University, and Brandeis University. Respected and loved for his uncompromising vision and honesty, his generous and unflagging support for his students, and his extraordinary knowledge of his craft, Ted served not only as a master teacher, but also as a mentor for many actors and actresses. His students appear on stages and movie sets around the world. As a longtime member of Actor's Equity, Ted acted on TV in episodes of 'Law and Order', 'Brooklyn Bridge' and 'American Playhouse'. As a director, Ted was known for his cutting edge productions of plays as diverse as Shakespeare, Brecht, and Pinter, as well as his continuing encouragement of young playwrights and actors. In 2009, IRNE (Independent Reviewers of New England) awarded Ted the first ever Theatre Icon Award for his "Life of Commitment to Boston Theater". Always a supporter of educational and social causes and working men and women, he was proud to volunteer at and support ESWA (Eastern Service Workers Association). Ted loved to talk progressive politics, and conversation with him could be enlightening, challenging, and inspiring! He was an avid reader, loved movies and music, and was a loyal Celtics fan. A Memorial will be planned for the Boston area in November. Obituary and memorial guestbook available online at www.wcfish.com Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, Austin, TX. (512) 452-8811