Benefit Appeal for Joe Marchese

Joe Marchese, an active member of the New York production community, has been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, and a fund has been set up to assist his family in defraying the anticipated medical costs.

Marchese, 46, has been the technical director at Guild Hall's John Drew Theatre in East Hampton, NY, since 1998. His professional guidance on stage lighting, sound engineering, and theatre design have helped thousands of artists bring their work to life on Guild Hall's stage. He has served as production manager of The Ritz on 54th, monitor engineer for Iggy Pop, technical director of the Limelight, and stage manager for Allen Peppers. He has also actively supported community theatre and its artists for years.

According to his wife Lea, the tumor is inoperable. Doctors have prescribed a radical treatment of radiation therapy in hopes of stopping the tumor's swift progress. After spending 24 days in the hospital, Marchese started treatment five days a week for six weeks at Sloan-Kettering's center in Commack, NY.

“We are looking for help from the industry Joe so loves and dedicated his life to,” says Lea. “He has been there for so many people. Keeping things going, even when it looked like the show couldn't go on. Donating his time and expertise to many benefit concerts and events. Now he needs help. I know there are many people in the industry who know and love him. Any help is appreciated.”

Known as the ‘Wizard of Guild Hall’, Marchese is the sole breadwinner for his family, which includes three young boys. Guild Hall hopes that the community will rally to support the Marchese family in this troubled time, just as he has supported so many students, actors, dancers, writers, filmmakers, musicians, and singers in their efforts at John Drew Theater over the years.

An assistance fund has been established by Guild Hall. Gifts to the Marchese family can be sent to the attention of the Joe Marchese Benefit Fund at Guild Hall, 158 Main Street, East Hampton, NY 11937.