Patricia White, an iconic trailblazer in New York‘s Black theater scene, has died at age 77. White, who was recently hospitalized, died from an illness, Deadline reported. The legendary performer died at the University Rehab Facility in the Bronx, New York, where she was getting physical therapy after being released from the hospital.

“In her theatre career, Pat was a pillar of support to theater organizations and artists and a fierce champion for authentic representation and storytelling,” according to an obituary by Jonathan Slaff that was received by Blavity. “Her decades-long dedication helped build a more inclusive, vibrant theatrical world—one that will continue to reflect her love, vision, and tireless spirit.”

What were some of Patricia White’s most notable accolades?

White, who was widely known as Pat, showed off her talents in many different facets. Throughout her legendary career, the Brooklyn native served as a director, producer, backstage coordinator, grant writer, box office manager and administrator. She also served as a mentor for many other aspiring performers.

White landed one of her most notable roles in 1994 when her mentor, Woodie King Jr., hired her as company manager of New Federal Theatre. That’s when White managed the 20th anniversary production of Ntozake Shange’s for colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow is enuf.

Some of the other notable projects White directed include Marvin Schidkarut’s Root of Aggression, Fallen Angel and a reading of Cesi Davidson’s Eric and Theresa Deconstructed.

White is also well-remembered for ushering for the Pulitzer Prize-winning production No Place to Be Somebody by Charles Gordone while working at the Public Theatre. For 13 years, White worked on and off as a project coordinator for the Frank Silvera Writer Workshop. This opportunity allowed White to collaborate with iconic talents such as Amiri Baraka, Kimako Baraka, Amina Baraka, A. Marcus Hemphill and Richard Wesley, per Deadline.

How did Patricia White start her theater career?

White launched her career at age 17 when she worked as an intern at The American Place Theatre. That’s where she worked with producers Wynn Handman and Julia Miles. The internship also gave White a chance to learn from historic Black playwrights such as Ed Bullins, Phillip Hayes Dean, Charlie Russell, Barbara Ann Teer and others.

Patricia White

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