Obituary for
Michael Warren ""Maxey"" Powell
Michael Warren “Maxey” Powell age 79 of New York City, and formerly of Martinsville, passed away on Sunday July 17, 2016 at NYU Hospital in New York City. He was born January 22, 1937 in Martinsville to the late Stan Powell and Pauline B. Connell. He was predeceased by his parents.
He was a graduate of Martinsville High School Class of 1955, and was a graduate of the Goodman Memorial Theater School, Art Institute of Chicago, he was Professor of Theater, Directing Faculty, at Rutgers University from 1995 to 2000. Member, SDC. He was Artistic Director of Circle East and also served as Artistic Director of Circle Rep Lab from 1987 to 1995 where he presented over 300 new plays developed in the workshop, including artists:Terrence McNally, Paula Vogel, Joe Mantello, Craig Lucas, and Lanford Wilson, to name a few, prior to founding The LAB Theater Company in 1996. From 1991 to 2001 he also served as Artistic Director of the Cape Cod Theater Project, Last Frontier Theater Conference, and the New York State Summer School of the Arts (NYSSSA). He also originated the role of "Lawrence" in Lanford Wilson's Home Free. Member, SDC, SAG-AFTRA.
He is survived by his sister Lynnette “Linnie” Owen and her husband Stan of Danville, two nieces, Michelle Dibble of Martinsville, Marsha Waterhouse and husband Randy of Thomasville, NC, one nephew, Brandon Owen and wife Adrain of Dry Fork, VA, and two great nieces, Erica Stump and Morgan Owen of Dry Fork, VA.
His graveside service will be Friday July 22, 2016 at 11:00 AM in Roselawn Burial Park with Pastor Timothy Barth officiating. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service in the chapel at Roselawn. Online condolences may be entered at www.roselawnchapelfuneralhome.com.
