Lloyd Richards, born on June 29, 1919, in Ontario, Canada, was of paternal Jamaican descent. He spent most of his childhood in Detroit, Michigan, where his passion for theatre first began to take root. Richards was a talented and dedicated student, but his studies at Wayne University were briefly interrupted by his service in World War II with the United States Army Air Force. It was during this time that he discovered his love for acting and directing, leading him down the path to a remarkable career in the world of theatre.
Richards' impact on the world of theatre is undeniable. He is best remembered for his Tony Award-winning direction of the original Broadway production of Fences, a poignant and powerful play by August Wilson. His talent for bringing out the best in actors and his keen eye for detail made him a sought-after director on Broadway. In addition to his work on Fences, Richards was also Tony-nominated for his direction of The Piano Lesson and A Raisin in the Sun.
Throughout his career, Richards also served as the Dean of the Yale University School of Drama, where he mentored and inspired countless aspiring actors and directors. He was also the Director of the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center's National Playwrights Conference, where he nurtured the talents of emerging playwrights and helped them bring their visions to life on the stage.
Richards' contributions to the world of theatre did not go unnoticed. In 1993, he was honored with the National Medal of Arts, a prestigious award that recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in the United States. In 2002, he was the recipient of The Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, a prestigious award that honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the arts. These awards were a testament to Richards' talent, dedication, and passion for theatre.
Richards was a devoted husband and father. He was married to Barbara Davenport, and together they had two sons, Scott and Thomas. Despite his busy and demanding career in the theatre, Richards always made time for his family, cherishing the moments spent with his loved ones.
Lloyd Richards will always be remembered as a trailblazer in the world of theatre. His commitment to diversity and inclusion paved the way for many African-American playwrights to have their voices heard on the Broadway stage. His passion for storytelling, his dedication to his craft, and his ability to inspire and mentor others have left an indelible mark on the world of theatre. Lloyd Richards' legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the stories he brought to life on the stage.