Lloyd Richards

Theatre director and actor of A Raisin in the Sun

Lloyd Richards - Theatre director and actor of A Raisin in the Sun
Born

June 29th, 1919
105 years ago

Died

June 29th, 2006
18 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Canada

Links & References

Born in 1919, this Canadian-American theatre director and actor significantly influenced American theatre. Contributions included directing the Broadway premiere of 'A Raisin in the Sun,' which highlighted the African American experience. Served as the artistic director of the National Theatre Company in Washington, D.C., and was dean of the graduate acting program at the University of California, San Diego. Worked extensively with playwrights such as August Wilson, helping to elevate their works on stage.

Directed the Broadway premiere of 'A Raisin in the Sun'

Received the National Medal of Arts

Served as dean of the graduate acting program at UC San Diego

Other People Born on June 29th

José Pablo Moncayo

Mexican composer and conductor
Born
June 29th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1912, contributed significantly to Mexican music through composition, conducting, and performance. Moncayo's most celebrated work is the orchestral piece "Huapango," which blends traditional Mexican folk elements with classical music. He served as the principal conductor of the Mexican Symphony Orchestra and was instrumental in promoting contemporary Mexican composers. Moncayo also played an important role in music education, influencing generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Rembert Dodoens

Flemish botanist known for herbal texts
Born
June 29th, 1517 507 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1585 440 years ago — 67 years old

A Flemish physician and botanist, this figure contributed significantly to botanical science in the 16th century. The compilation of works included 'Cruydeboeck', a comprehensive herbal text that cataloged various plants and their medicinal uses. Herbal knowledge during this period was limited, and this work synthesized ideas from earlier scholars and his own observations. The text was widely circulated in Europe and influenced herbal medicine and botany for generations. Additionally, the figure’s insights into plant classification contributed to the later development of botanical nomenclature.

Continue Reading

Craig Sager

Sportscaster and sideline reporter
Born
June 29th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2016 8 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent sportscaster specialized in basketball coverage. Worked for Turner Sports where provided sideline reporting for NBA games. Recognized for colorful style and unique, flamboyant suits during live broadcasts. Covered numerous NBA playoffs and final games, contributing to the broadcasting field with a distinctive voice. Faced a personal battle with leukemia, which he documented through various media outlets, gaining attention to his health journey while continuing to work.

Continue Reading

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow

Turkmen President and dentist
Born
June 29th, 1957 67 years ago

Born in 1957, this individual served as the second President of Turkmenistan from 2007 to 2022. Initially trained as a dentist, held various positions within the health sector before entering politics. Championed policies to promote national development and the economy. Contributed to the establishment of state-run initiatives and infrastructure projects aimed at modernization.

Continue Reading

Émile Peynaud

Oenologist with pivotal winemaking techniques
Born
June 29th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

An influential figure in the field of oenology, primarily associated with the development of modern winemaking techniques. Contributed significantly to the science of wine production, emphasizing the importance of grape selection, fermentation practices, and wine aging. Served as an educator and wrote extensively on the subject of wine, pioneering methods that transformed both the industry and wine education. Worked at Bordeaux University, where guidance helped shape the careers of numerous winemakers. His research and publications provided a foundation for future oenological studies and practices.

Continue Reading

Colin Jost

Comedian and Saturday Night Live writer
Born
June 29th, 1982 42 years ago

Raised in Staten Island, a prominent comedian emerged from the ranks of 'Saturday Night Live', where contributions as a head writer led to multiple Emmy nominations. Writing for the show since 2005, served as co-anchor for 'Weekend Update' alongside Michael Che, providing a satirical take on current events. Co-wrote the screenplay for 'Staten Island Summer', a film based on his childhood experiences. Known for stand-up comedy performances across various venues, showcasing sharp wit and observational humor.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 29th

Eric Dolphy

Saxophonist and composer of jazz music
Born
June 20th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1964 60 years ago — 36 years old

An influential figure in the jazz genre, contributed significantly as a saxophonist and flautist during the 1960s. Active in the avant-garde jazz movement, he collaborated with notable musicians such as John Coltrane, Charles Mingus, and Ornette Coleman. Released several acclaimed albums, including 'Out to Lunch!' in 1964, showcasing innovative improvisational techniques. Dolphy's work blended various styles, including bebop and free jazz, establishing a unique sound that pushed the boundaries of jazz.

Continue Reading

Gero

Archbishop of Cologne
Died
June 29th, 976 1048 years ago — None years old

Served as the Archbishop of Cologne during the 10th century. Played a significant role in the establishment and consolidation of the archdiocese's authority in the region. Engaged in ecclesiastical leadership and territorial administration, overseeing the distribution of lands and resources. Instrumental in the expansion of monastic influence in the area. Promoted religious reforms and the relationship between the church and nobility.

Continue Reading

Michael Madhusudan Dutt

Indian poet and playwright, authored Meghnādavadha Kavya
Born
January 25th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1873 151 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent figure in Bengali literature, contributed significantly to poetry and drama. Authored the epic poem 'Meghnādavadha Kavya', which is considered a landmark in Bengali literature. Embraced a range of themes, including social issues and personal emotions, while employing a mix of traditional and innovative styles. Translated works of Shakespeare and brought a unique perspective to the Bengali literary scene. Established the foundation for modern Bengali drama through his contributions.

Continue Reading

Steve Ditko

Comic book artist and co-creator of Spider-Man
Born
November 2nd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2018 6 years ago — 90 years old

An American comic book artist and writer, recognized for co-creating the character Spider-Man alongside writer Stan Lee. Also co-created Doctor Strange. Played a significant role in defining the visual style and storytelling approach in comic books during the 1960s. Later worked on independent projects, reflecting philosophical themes and personal beliefs, contributing to the medium's evolution.

Continue Reading

Ralph Allen

Businessman and philanthropist in England
Born
1693 332 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1764 260 years ago — 71 years old

An English businessman contributed to the development of Bath through significant investments in architecture and infrastructure. Innovated postal services by introducing a more efficient system, which greatly improved communication. Involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting local charities and education. Notable for the construction and management of the postal system that laid groundwork for modern postal services.

Continue Reading

Hachalu Hundessa

Ethiopian singer and songwriter
Born
1986 39 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent figure in the Ethiopian music scene, highlighted contributions to the Oromo music genre. Became influential through music that incorporated social and political themes, resonating with the concerns of the Oromo people. Released several albums, with many songs emphasizing cultural pride and the struggles faced by the Oromo community. His work achieved significant recognition within Ethiopia, particularly among youth, and often addressed issues of injustice and identity. Passed away in 2020, sparking widespread protests and tributes across the nation.

Continue Reading