Woody Allen

Los Angeles, 88, director, actor, playwright and university professor, died May 28, 2010 in Los Angeles. Born John David Sydow on Oct. 7, 1921, in Rockford, Illinois began his career in community theater. In 1942 while serving with the military, he collaborated to create “Hump Happy” 1 of 3 cross-dressing Andrews Sisters. The show went on to military bases in India and the Middle East during WWII. Masters Degree from Yale School of Drama. Jack directed for Town Hall Theater, Sturbridge, Massachusetts. He directed in New York City at Hunter College in 1952. In 1958 he received the Obie award for his theatrical adaptation of “The Brothers Karamazov” Jack also commissioned work from a young Woody Allen. Jack was assistant director to George Abbott, whose Broadway production od “Once Upon A Mattress” starred  Carol Burnett. In August 1960, Jack went on to direct the national tour, featuring Buster Keaton and wife. In 1966 Jack directed the revival of “Annie Get Your Gun” starring Ethel Merman, and music by Irving Berlin (more) Burial will be June 28 at Scandinavian Cemetery, Rockford.

Source: Rockford Register Star 6/27/2010