Harold “Hal” Herman
April 1, 1932 – January 13, 2016
“I’ve been blessed with this job. It is a lot of hard work, but I can’t think of anywhere else I would want to work or nicer people to work with. I have loved this job. The hardest part is giving it up because I love it.”
— Harold Herman
Shenandoah Conservatory lost of one of its iconic figures when Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Theatre and Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre (SSMT) Founder and Artistic Director Emeritus Harold “Hal” Herman, B.A., passed away January 13, 2016 at age 83.
Herman’s influence on the conservatory and musical theatre, both at the university and throughout the region, is immeasurable. Herman left behind a lasting legacy of bringing drama and laughter to the stage, coming to Shenandoah in 1973 and serving 33 years as a professor of theatre. He founded SSMT in 1984 and remained its artistic director until March 2015.
Herman, himself an accomplished actor, had dreamt, since the early 1960s, of establishing a professional summer stock theatre company. His dream became a reality in 1984, when SSMT presented its first season of four fully staged musicals: “Shenandoah,” “George M!,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and “Sugar,” and started providing Shenandoah students with a university-centered opportunity to work in a professional setting before venturing out to pursue their careers.
Under Herman’s 31 years of leadership, SSMT mounted 124 productions, drawing enthusiastic audiences from an increasingly wide geographical area. During its 25th anniversary season in 2008, SSMT presented its 100th show, “The Producers,” at a time when it was among the very first companies to be given rights to perform the Tony Award-winning hit.
Herman himself was no stranger to the SSMT stage. One of his notable roles was his portrayal of “Tevye” in “Fiddler on the Roof” in the 1985 production; he reprised this role in 1995, 2001 and 2008.
He touched many lives during his time at Shenandoah, and as a testament to that, in May 2012, alumnus Jack Rowles ’82 organized an alumni tribute performance to Herman, which brought out Broadway performers and Shenandoah Conservatory alumni J. Robert Spencer ’91, Kathy Voytko ’94, Kris Koop Ouellette ’87, Laura Woyasz ’98, Peter J. Herber ’84, Aaron Galligan-Stierle ’02 and Richard F. Costa ’86.
Envisioning a 21st Century Center for theatrical training and performance.
The Harold Herman Lab Theatre is a radical transformation of Shenandoah Conservatory’s current “Green Room” (Ruebush 154)
into a flexible theatre and 21st century classroom space with state-of-the-art technology and equipment.
This highly versatile black box space will further elevate the profile and work of Shenandoah Conservatory,
the region’s leading center of excellence in theatrical training and student performance.
THE HAROLD HERMAN LAB THEATRE WILL...
Celebrate Hal Herman’s extraordinary contribution to Shenandoah University and the larger Shenandoah Valley region as founder of Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre (SSMT).
Honor Hal Herman’s dedication to the training of generations of theatre students as faculty member and founding chair of the theatre division.
Hal’s Vision
“Hal Herman built Shenandoah Conservatory’s theatre program by making decisions on curriculum,
performance, programming, and support that responded to one question: How will this help the students?
The proposed lab theatre continues Hal’s vision by providing a learning space that will accommodate
both pedagogical and student-driven work in all aspects of theatre.”
— Thomas Albert
OUR VISION
The fully transformed Harold Herman Lab Theatre radically elevates training and performance opportunities for Shenandoah students.
Features of the Harold Herman Lab Theatre
State-of-the-art technology that supports a new level of instruction and excellence in multiple areas, including:
- Musical Theatre
- Acting for Stage and Digital Media/Film
- Lighting and Theatre Design
Flexible seating for nearly 60 people, completely flexible configuration, and Shenandoah’s first performance space dedicated to student theatre productions
Advanced film and video production capability for student-centered work
Industry standard rigging infrastructure and state-of-the-art lighting controls
Located across from the Lindé Hayen Herman Theatre Rehearsal Hall
Remembering Hal
“Hal’s passing is not just a loss for our university community, but also one for theatre-lovers throughout the region.
He will be missed by every person who had the pleasure to work with or learn from him.
His legacy, through SSMT, is secure. At this time, our condolences go out to Hal’s family
and all those who loved him. This is a sad day for Shenandoah.”
— Tracy Fitzsimmons | President of Shenandoah University
THOMAS ALBERT
Producing Artistic Director of Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre
“Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre owes its existence to the vision and perseverance of one man: Harold Herman. He left an undying legacy that has touched tens of thousands of lives, and made theatre-going a way of life for all of us: students, colleagues, actors, musicians, music directors, choreographers, designers, technical and costume staff, and, of course, the audience. To paraphrase Jerome Kern on Irving Berlin, Harold Herman has no place in Shenandoah theatre. He is Shenandoah theatre.”
MICHAEL STEPNIAK
Dean of Shenandoah Conservatory
“Hal Herman had an extraordinary impact on our conservatory and community. He loved the magic of musical theatre, and was brilliant in connecting audiences with great shows. Through his vision and determination, he developed a national-level summer music theatre season and founded the conservatory’s Theatre Division. His knowledge of musical theatre was encyclopedic, and his passion for the stage was infectious. He lived and breathed theatre. He will be greatly missed.”
Rick Wesley '88
“In 1983, Mr. Herman announced to my freshman class his ambitions for a new Theatre in the near future, and a Summer Music Theatre THAT coming Summer. “I would love it if as many of you that can will join us for something very special!” I did. Thirty-Five years later, when I gaze at the Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre, or take in a performance there, or when I attend an SSMT rehearsal, surrounded by boundless energy and aspirations, I marvel at his chutzpah. As his and Linde’s student, they were as much to be feared as admired. Their care for their craft inspired so many. Their tutelage is something I hope to honor still. Their friendship and trust is something that took me quite by surprise, and leaves me humbled.
To Mr. Herman, Harold, Hal, whose favorite show was always the one he was working on,: Break all the legs in Heaven!”
John Putch
“My father, William Putch had both Hal and LInde perform in countless plays and musicals at the Totem Pole Playhouse. I grew up first watching them then acting with them. Hal and Bill created a strong relationship between Totem Pole and Shenandoah and fostered many young actors’ dreams in the performing arts. Hal and Linde were great friends to my family and the remaining Putch’s will miss them dearly. Rest in peace now that you’ve gone on tour.”
Ava Edmonson Sullivan
“What a legacy! I grew up next door to the Herman Family in Middletown. Hal and Linde turned their passion into their life’s work. I doubt anyone else has ever done or will ever do for SU and our community’s theatre programs than did this couple. Much love to Tara, Charla and Todd. Your Dad and Mom will always be remembered and terribly missed.”
Matthew Gose
A man of great vision with a keen eye for potential, Harold Herman was the creator of both the Shenandoah University theatre department and Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre both of which are thriving. To say that Mr. Herman influenced my life is an extreme understatement. His expert guidance directly contributed to the director, choreographer, performer and person I am today. Thank you, Hal. You have left a marvelous legacy. You and Linde are now reunited. I picture the two of you in the great beyond, serenading each other with “It Couldn’t Please Me More” (the pineapple song) from CABARET (which I would sneak and watch from backstage every time the two of you performed it).
DOP TROUTMAN
“I wasn’t a theater major while at Shenandoah, but Mr. Herman welcomed me into the family anyway. He cast me in a few shows and gave me a glimpse of what my life would have been like had I chosen a different career path. Mr. Herman was gentle and firm at the same time, always warm, always open, always available. He leaves a true legacy of talent and dedication and his absence from Shenandoah and SSMT theatre will be greatly and noticeably missed.”
DOLLY STEVENS '77
“With every student you taught and directed since 1973, you created a legacy that will live on forever. I consider myself one of the lucky ones to have been there at the beginning. Everything I am, do and know in my professional life in theatre is a direct result of all I learned from you. What you gave Shenandoah is a vibrant and strong theatre department and professional summer theatre. What you gave those of us who passed through during your tenure is an irreplaceable and invaluable gift. Well done, sir. Well done.”
ROSALIE LEWIS ’12
“This is truly a huge loss. I spent much of my childhood in Clarke County and was very fortunate to have parents that introduced their five children to the arts, especially the theater. It was a REAL treat to drive to The Wayside Theater in Middletown and see Mr. and Mrs. Herman in so many memorable performances (mid-60s). The community has lost fabulous versatility, charisma, originality and true talent.”
Remembering Hal
“There is not a day in my life that I don’t use some of their knowledge to live.
It was a honor to be your student Hal. I replay all the classes in my mind with memory recall.
You will always be with me. Thank you for showing me the world. Hug Linde for me.”
— Sirena Sparkles
MICHAEL CREA '05
“When I was just beginning my journey as an artist, I admit that Mr. Herman scared me. He was not always very nice to me. He pushed me to the absolute end of my emotional limits. He said to me once, in front of a large group, “Have you ever loved anyone or anything? Because I can’t tell.” I thought I could never do as well as he wanted. I thought I would never be able to give him what he wanted. But then he would take me by the hand, walk me around the halls of the Conservatory, and tell me that he was proud of the work that I was doing, and that the only reason he was being hard on me was because he saw what I was capable of doing. And I took his words of encouragement along with me through my professional career, and still think of them today. I often hear his token “What did you work on?” in my head at random times, and I stop and think about where I’ve been, and what I’ve done, and where I’m going. And I know that I still do have a lot of work to do. But it’s because of Mr. Herman that I have enjoyed so much of what I’ve accomplished so far. Thank you for EVERYTHING, Mr. Herman.”
SUSAN B. CALDERON '85
“My memories of Hal began the summer of 1980 when I traveled with my father down to Winchester, VA to audition for an opportunity to attend Shenandoah. The audition was held in the Theatre Studio and I was very nervous to say the least. I sang “Far from the Home I love” from the wonderful musical Fiddler on the Roof. I was extremely nervous and I recall at the time he was the only professor at the audition. He was very kind and welcomed me making me feel comfortable. I guess I did a good job because I was accepted to Shenandoah College & Conservatory of Music (Shenandoah was not a University yet) and was thrilled beyond my imagination. I attended Shenandoah from 1981 – 1985 during that time Hal gave me an education and on stage opportunities that I will always cherish. Everything I learned and all of the skills I obtained I continue to use and carry with me to this very day. Over the years Hal built the Theatre program and as it grew it turned into one of the best schools in the Nation to attend for a degree in the Theatre Arts. I had the honor of being one of the original members of SSMT. We kicked off the first season of the summer theatre program with a tour of Galloping Garretson and of course the musical Shenandoah. Hal and Linde both were not just my professors, but they were also wonderful mentors that will never be forgotten. Amazingly beautiful, gifted, and giving souls extremely dedicated to their students that have left a legacy that will continue to grow for years to come. My heart is very heavy today and would like to send my deepest condolences to the Herman family, the Shenandoah faculty, and fellow alumni. It was an honor to work with and learn from Hal and Linde. I find it comforting to know that they are now together again. God Bless you both your legacy will live on forever.”
Sam Clauter '85
“Although I was only involved with the Shenandoah musical productions from the “pit”, I so much appreciated the artistic diversity of Mr. Herman and his vision and leadership in musical theater at Shenandoah. When I heard of his passing, memories of all the shows that I had played for, that he had been a part of, rushed through my head. From Fiddler and West Side to Brigadoon and Pal Joey (and many others), his impact on me (as a mere pit musician) was an important part of why I continue to play in the pit orchestra for shows today. Thanks Mr. Herman for all of your inspiration. I may have only played the music, but because of you, felt that I was truly part of the production.”
Steven Joseph '03
“My heart is very saddened as I visited Facebook and saw a post yesterday that said, Hal Herman had transitioned. I can remember sitting in his office and asking him specific questions, my junior year, about my ability to pursue my career while ensuring longevity in the business. Hal said, ” Take care of your business. I think you have what it takes to make it but you have to be able to pay your bills. You’re not wasting your time.” From my audition the summer of 1999 singing Ain’t Misbehavin’ and performing the role of David from James Baldwin’s Amen Corner I was applauded and later accepted into the Music Theatre Department of SU. Upon Graduation I thanked Hal for putting up with me. Hal said, ” Congratulations! Best of luck and take care of yourself.” Both Linde Hayen and Hal Herman were a great source of inspiration and motivation to be a performing artist. I am very grateful we crossed paths and I look forward to seeing them again someday. God be with you Hal Herman.”
Laura Smith '85
“As a nursing student, Hal embraced the idea that I could find time to practice and perform. He worked with my nursing professors, to make it work. I was thrilled to do a children’s theater show “The Red Shoes”. His kind manner and instruction helped shaped me and bring me out of my shell. I can still remember what we had for dinner at his house at the conclusion of the show; chilli and grilled cheese sandwiches. I always regretted that I couldn’t do more shows with him, but nursing didn’t lend itself to being able to schedule that. I never forgot the things he taught me.”
RELLY FRIEDMAN '82
Hal saw me play Lady Alice Moore in WLT’s A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS. He suggested I audit scene study with his kids as I had talent and could be professional. The upshot, I now belong to AEA, and SAG/AFTRA. Did a commercial for the Ohio Lottery that won an Emmy. All because Hal saw something in me and encouraged me to develop it. Our daughter, Laurie played Amaryllis in THE MUSIC MAN and Shrpinze, 1985’s FIDDLER. She is now running for the MT Legislature……using her gifts in her own way. Hal was the start of it all. RIP my beloved mentor.
JASON LABRADOR '12
I have had the privilege of playing the Fiddler in Fiddler on the Roof! with Mr. Herman (Tevye) in 2008 at SSMT. It is because of Mr. Herman that my career continues to exist today. My love for performing musicals started with SSMT in 1996 and has not stopped. He gave me an avenue to be a sponge and learn from my surroundings. I was not a theater major, but I was ALWAYS in the pit. He was a blessing directly and indirectly for me and I will never forget what avenues he opened for me.
DIANE HAASE '80
Hal also played Teyve during the school year during my 4 years at Shenco and I was lucky enough to play Golde. I was too young of course but it was so much fun to play opposite him and see him crack up during rehearsal. The “dream” scene was especially comical at times. I remember I had told him a couple of years later I always wanted to play Fanny Brice in Funny Girl and he paused and said as tactfully as he could, “I don’t think you are quite Jewish enough”. That still makes me laugh. My time at Shenandoah and at SSMT was the best time of my life because of Hal and his passion for theatre. I will never forget him and all the great memories.
Remembering Hal
“Before Sarah and I officially started dating, we were cast opposite each other in “Fiddler on the Roof”.
She was Hodel, I was Perchick. During a rehearsal, Mr. Herman thought it necessary to place a kiss
at the end of our second act duet, Now I Have Everything. It should be noted that in the book,
there is not one single stage direction (anywhere) that indicates that anyone should kiss.
After that rehearsal, Mr. Herman grabbed me by the arm and in his hushed Mr. Herman whisper
winked at me and said, “you’re welcome!” Thanks for bringing me that much closer
to the woman who would become my wife, Mr. Herman.
Rest well, sir. You will be sorely missed.”
— Michael Misko ’08
AVA EDMONSON SULLIVAN
“What a legacy! I grew up next door to the Herman Family in Middletown. Hal and Linde turned their passion into their life’s work. I doubt anyone else has ever done or will ever do for SU and our community’s theatre programs than did this couple. Much love to Tara, Charla and Todd. Your Dad and Mom will always be remembered and terribly missed.”
DONNA FORRESTER '76
“The passing of Mr. Hal Herman is a sad day for everyone in the Shenandoah University family, all of whom adored him. He will be greatly missed and remembered always by those who knew him. His vision for the theater program and the success of his Summer Theater performances speak for themselves of his talent and wisdom. My deepest condolences to his family.”
MADELINE MACNEIL
“I remember Hal from my days at Wayside Theatre when I was beginning my musical journey. Throughout the years he would encourage me and we’d have moments to chat now and then. His family and their artistry remain with me.”
Remembering Hal
“I have been an enthusiastic supporter of the SSMT since the very beginning. That first year (1974), I was disappointed that
such wonderful performances were being viewed by so few people. I prayed that the theater would continue. As the years went by, the performances
remained fabulous and the audience grew and grew. Then the new theater was built with a much larger capacity. But by this time Hal’s reputation
for producing high quality shows was established and SSMT seemed secure. I’ve had the privilege to see many plays performed in
New York City as well as the Washington DC theaters, and few were better than the ones I attended at Shenandoah. In the last years of Hal’s life,
he and Linde were my neighbors on Ruth Court in Strasburg. I will remain a cheerleader for SSMT and the work Hal started. May his legacy continue for future generations.”
— C J Borden