Theatre Stage Manager Dies

Joseph “Vinnie” Marchant, a longtime stage manager at Erie, Pa.’s Warner Theatre, died December 1st following a brief illness.

Marchant, 83, worked in various capacities at the venue since its opening in 1931. In his 60-plus years in the business, he worked the stage for artists including Sammy Davis Jr., Milton Berle, Bob Hope and more.

Marchant began as a runner at the theatre at age 12. Following his military service in World War II, he returned to Warner.

Marchant also served as stage manager for Erie’s Louis J. Tullio Arena and was president of the local International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.