Remembering Lane Crockett: A Theater Luminary
In the vibrant world of theater, few individuals have the power to influence and uplift as much as Lane Crockett did. As a former theater critic for the Shreveport Times, Crockett was a master of his craft, known for keeping both actors and audiences on the edge of their seats. With his passing at the age of 83, the theater community has lost not just a critic but a passionate advocate for the performing arts.
Crockett's journey came to an end on a Friday at Willis Knighton Pierremont, succumbing to complications from ongoing vascular issues that he had battled for years. His longtime friend, John Gayle, shared the news, reflecting on their friendship that blossomed in 1979. "I met Lane when he reviewed a couple of plays I performed in with the Gaslight Players," Gayle recalled, laughing at how Crockett's critiques could sting. “In one review, he called me ‘stiff and one-dimensional,’ and in another, he referred to me as ‘tonily deaf.’” These sharp observations sparked a friendship, leading to conversations over meals at Murrell’s, where their bond flourished.
Despite retiring from the Times, Crockett never truly stepped away from the stage. He remained an active presence in the local theater scene, writing reviews for enjoyment and to promote productions. One of his final reviews was for Stage Center's lively production of POTUS, where he noted, “They all are fun to watch. As said, the pace is manic, and they don't let up. It even once spilled onto the theater aisle.” This energetic spirit reflected his love for the theater, showcasing his unwavering support for the arts even in retirement.
While the accolades for Crockett continue to pour in from all corners of the community, it’s clear he made an indelible mark on the local theater scene. Susan Kirton, who starred in several productions under his watchful eye, recalled his charming eccentricities. “Lane had a hilarious habit of making up names for places he couldn’t remember,” she chuckled. “With his languid Southern drawl, he called Imperial Cathay ‘Chinese on the highway’ and Cantina Laredo ‘the Casa de Rosada.’” These anecdotes capture not just his unique perspective, but also the warmth he brought to every interaction.
Robert Alford, the head of the LSUS theater department, praised Crockett’s dedication to theater. “Lane had a deep commitment to excellence,” he said. “That was reflected in his reviews and stories. His critiques were always incisive, yet fair. He was warm and generous, a galvanizing figure in our theater community.” This unwavering dedication to honesty and kindness helped elevate the quality of performances in Shreveport-Bossier City.
Erlene Bergeron, a veteran actress, described Crockett as a dear friend who brought light into the theater world. “He was a friend to many, and he brightened our theater world. I will miss him terribly.” Similarly, Ginger Folmer, an actress and director, reminisced about Crockett’s hidden talents. “Lane was an excellent swing dance partner,” she recalled, adding with a smile, “I had a couple of occasions to dance with him and was impressed. What I appreciate most about Lane is the friendship and encouragement he shared with the performing artists in our community.” This enthusiasm for new and creative works spoke to his boundless support for those around him.
Crockett’s contributions extended beyond reviews. He wrote in-depth feature stories on national celebrities, capturing their essence in a way that resonated with readers. He once shared a laugh with Cary Grant, who playfully replied, “So did I,” when Crockett expressed his childhood ambition to be just like him. This encapsulated not only Crockett’s wit but also his ability to connect with the legends of the stage and screen. His encyclopedic knowledge of literature, film, and theater was unparalleled, covering everything from local productions to global icons.
As Kirton reflected on her friend’s legacy, she noted the breadth of his knowledge and how it enriched conversations across various topics. “He could talk seamlessly about everything from music to theater, art, books, and film,” she shared. “He was a great lover of film noir, and we even talked about starting a podcast with him where he would lend his expertise.” This diverse knowledge not only made him a well-rounded individual but also a beloved figure in the community.
Local actor and director Joe Todaro noted that the quality of local theater struggled to reach previous heights after Crockett’s retirement. “Lane was fiercely devoted to his friends and all things theatrical,” he observed. “He was generous with praise when deserved, yet unafraid to level criticism no matter the target.” This balance of support and constructive feedback helped mold the theater scene, pushing performers to strive for excellence.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Gayle likened the loss of Crockett to the burning of a vast library, referencing an African proverb. “When an elder dies, a library burns,” he wrote. “With Lane, we just lost a library of Alexandrian proportions. However, I know in the long run, we will not focus on the loss but rather the immense gain of having Lane in our lives and in this community—our great good fortune to love him and call him one of our own.” This sentiment captures the essence of Crockett’s legacy: a brilliant mind and an unwavering spirit that uplifted everyone around him.
As we celebrate Lane Crockett’s remarkable life, it’s important to remember the joy and passion he brought to the theater. He was more than just a critic; he was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration to countless artists. His legacy will live on through the vibrant performances he championed and the lives he touched. Whether through his reviews or his infectious enthusiasm for the arts, Crockett leaves behind a theater community that is richer for having known him.
In closing, Lane Crockett’s journey may have ended, but his impact is everlasting. He was a beacon of light in the world of theater, illuminating the stage with his insights, humor, and passion for storytelling. The echo of his laughter and the warmth of his spirit will continue to inspire generations of performers and audiences alike. Thank you, Lane, for your invaluable contributions and for the laughter, love, and light you shared with us all. You will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
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