Austin360 blogs > Out & About > Archives > 2007 > August > 14 > Entry
Losing Joe York
Fame: For almost two decades, he was among the only Austin stage actors who could sell a show based on his name above the title. Early Tuesday, Joe York, who recently returned from New York City to star in a Zachary Scott Theatre revival of “The Rocky Horror Show,” died of complications from liver cancer in his Brooklyn home.
“I can hardly believe that great spirit is not walking the earth,” said former Zachary Scott managing director Ann Ciccolella. “Anyone who ever met Joe York or experienced his enormous talent on stage will never forget him. For those of us who love musical theater, his special quality is simply irreplaceable.”
Born July 4, 1957 in Japan into an Air Force family, York grew up in Italy, California, Alabama, Virginia and elsewhere. In 1975, he moved from Alabama to attend St. Edward’s University; later his parents purchased a home in Rollingwood. He leaves behind his mother and three brothers, Pat, Mike and Tim, along with partner Graham Murray.
Blessed with a rich baritone and dashing looks, which he sometimes spiked with a dash of campiness, York played leads in Austin productions of “Carousel,” “Camelot,” “Nine,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” “Falsettos,” “A Streetcar Named Desire,” “The Rocky Horror Show,” “The Mystery of Irma Vep,” “Sweeney Todd,” “The Fantasticks,” “Final Touches,” “Oklahoma,” “Forever Plaid,” and “Annie,” among many others. He worked often for Zachary Scott, Live Oak Theatre, Austin Musical Theatre and the Zilker Summer Musical.
He moved to New York City in 2000 to pursue non-theatrical dreams and ran a Web page design company. He also directed and designed stage productions.
“Joe possessed the best sense of timing on stage I have ever experienced,” said Zachary Scott artistic director Dave Steakley. “He could have you rolling in the aisle with hysterical laughter, command the stage with extraordinary power and bravado, and break your heart with the tenderness of his warm baritone. He had such a huge impact on Austin audiences because he was as funny, loving and dear offstage as he was onstage. Perhaps he understood best how to leave them wanting more. ”
Memorial services are pending. If you knew Joe, or just admired him onstage, please please leave memories in this Guest Book.
Permalink | Comments (45) | Post your comment Categories: Fame
Comments
By John Gregory
September 4, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this
For those of you lucky enough to have heard Joe sing, it was an unforgetable joy. But to have had the priviledge to accompany him as I did at the old Common Interest back in 1978-81, well-----priceless. The room quieted when Joe performed whether it was the "duck song-Waddle I Do?" or a gorgeous ballad that would thrill you deeply, or one of his many songs that would just flow into your heart. We miss you Joe, and we'll remember; not for just a day, not for just a year, but always. Love, John & Marion
apocasmak@aol.com
By Hannah Gerber
September 1, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this
Joe taught me how to sing to my child. She knows she can 'be anybody that she wants to be' because I was lucky enough to sit in the audience of so many of Joe's 'Dead Puppy Caberets' as he called them.
I'm waiting to teach her the Masochism Tango, maybe when she's nine.
Joe taught me how to sing, and on many occassions he taught me how to laugh when I thought I otherwise couldn't.
I've never had much faith in angels but now I know there is at least one.
By Suzie Harriman
August 24, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this
Nine years ago Randy and I had a small dinner party with Joe and Scotty, Karen Kuykendall and Jim Reynolds. When it was time for dessert I went into the kitchen to use a new cream whipper we had purchased. Evidently I didn’t screw the top on tight enough because the thing exploded all over me, the ceiling, floor… everywhere.
When I appeared in the doorway to the dining room, covered in semi-whipped cream, there was a burst of laughter, then Joe exclaimed in his best Ricky Ricardo voice, “Hey Looocy, wha’ hoppened?!”
I made a “mix tape” cd for him around that same time and he called me a few days later and said, “I love all the songs, but the best one is Little Richard singing ‘I Feel Pretty.’” I was pleased at how excited he was over that song.
Yes, Joe was funny and very smart and a truly kind person. We were so disappointed when he moved to NYC, but how could Austin contain a talent like that?
To Joe’s mother, I say, Thank you for raising such a good boy who gave such joy to so many people. As a mother myself, my heart goes out to you, for this is something no mother should ever have to endure.
I was surprised when it was the photos, not the writing, that made me cry when I read Michael’s blog. It’s wise not to hold a memorial until his many friends can smile again and share their memories of this fine person. Regretfully, Randy and I will be on a long-planned trip with friends to Guadalajara on Sept. 8, but we will toast a Paloma to him and request a familiar, favorite song of Mexican mariachis, “I did it My Way.” I think Joe would like that.
Suzie Harriman
By Pat and Ben
August 24, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
In the early '90s, my son, then a little boy, was in the play, "Nine" with Joe. I remember the first time we ever met him. He was casually lounging in the studio where the inital practices took place. He was so helpful and cordial that our friendship was instant.
After the play ended, we made sure to see everything else in which he performed. In our eyes he was not only Austin's leading man, he was America's.
Sending oceans of love and sympathy,
Ben, Pat, and Monk
By Hannah Gerber
August 23, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this
Joe York taught me how to sing to my child.
Songs I might otherwise never had learned.
Tonight I think I will sing the 'Masochism Tango' to a four year old along with our nightly 'You can be anybody that you want to be' and tonight, like every night, I will thank Joe for the gifts he gave me so many years ago that continue to delight myself and everyone I know who hears his voice still.
By lucy carapetyan
August 20, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
though i cant think of when I would have last seen joe, i remember him like it was yesterday. i love that my memories of him will forever be as a 6 year old girl being hoisted into his HUGE arms in the hot, hot summer in zilker park. thinking of him makes my heart swell.
By Verne Langdon
August 19, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
Only too often, the good guys get to go home early. Too soon gone, but what marvelous memories and Talent Joe York bequeathed us. May the music of his dear soul resonate always in our hearts.
By Steve Hauck
August 16, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this
Joe was a beautiful actor, man, and spirit. And VERY sexy! I first saw him as The Boy in THE FANTASTIKS at St. Ed's and had the pleasure of working with him in PIPPIN on the Zilker Hillside Stage. That was my last show in Austin, but I was aware of Joe's development and success through the Austin theater grapevine. His presence will be missed but his influence lives on. God bless his family and all those who will miss him.
By robin lewis
August 16, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
I first met Joe last year choreographing
Rocky Horror at Zach. I remember him asking
if I could come in on his off time to work with
him on the dances. He came in with his rehearsal heels and we laughed so much as we were working on putting some "Beyonce" into the finale. He was a perfectionist. He made us laugh daily in rehearsal and performance.
My love and sympathy to his family and dearest
friends.
By Lara Coyle White
August 16, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this
He made us laugh and cry. I was only in one show with him (in which I was smitten and awed by his charisma - like many others.)I saw many other shows in which he starred and he really could do anything. My condolences to his family and close friends.
By Timothy York & Bubba
August 16, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
Joe~
Thank you for one of my greatest gifts, showing me how much you love me. I want to tell the world that I got my brother back...and I love you...so much...and forever.
Timothy York & Bubba
By VAL
August 16, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this
Our sincere condolences and our thoughts and prayers go out to the York family at this very sad time. Kate, I love you. Be strong and I will talk to you very soon. With love, Valerie & Ron.
By Marylee Boarman
August 16, 2007 7:37 AM | Link to this
I had the sheer delight of working with Joe on numerous productions over several years in Austin. He was a gifted actor, a steady and artistic director, and a warm and wonderful human being. He will be deeply missed in the theatre community, especially by those of us who shared his sense of mischief and his rich laughter at least once! Godspeed, Joe!
By Leslie Bonnell
August 16, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this
When Joe sang it was with such delicious sincerity and passion. What an incredible gift he gave of himself. He exuded a warmth and gentleness that made it ok and safe for his audience to be willing to forfeit sarcasm and really feel something gorgeous or painful for awhile. He had imagined how important that must be for people, to let themselves be vulnerable, to allow for a genuine moment of sweetness or mourning. And meanwhile, to indulge this passion in himself. I can’t think of anything more lovely.
There is nothing more beautiful and right than someone celebrating and reveling in what makes them special. He did that with such humor, grace and soulfulness and it was heavenly.
I get overwhelmed thinking about the loss to this community and then I am soothed by the bounty of what he gave when he was here. An embarrassment of riches, really.
When I think about those people who have touched my soul and helped shape my life, Joe is at the top of the list.
My love and deepest sympathy to Joe's family, Graham and his many dear friends.
By Kara Bliss
August 15, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
Dearest Joe, everyone always seemed to be grabbing for a little piece of you, and you always found something more to give. Thank you for all the bright light and love. My heart aches. Hurrah for the Pirate King.
By Carly, Adelle, Lauren, and Cathy York
August 15, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this
Our Uncle Joe has been such a great inspiration for all of us. We will always have him in our hearts and know that he is watching over his nieces with the love and admiration that he has always shown. Rocky Horror was our favorite - what an experience! You will be greatly missed.
By Kathy Catmull
August 15, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this
Keep trying to post here and getting absurdly tearful. Joe would have laughed me out of that no doubt. Even more than the insane good looks and talent, what a radiant, radiant heart he was. I am sorrier than I can say that I won't see him again.
By Kali' Priestley Rourke
August 15, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Joe was such a kind and funny man, and will be greatly missed. I only got to do a couple of shows with him, but became a huge fan of his talent and charm. As many have already said, what always came through the blazing talent and good looks was an incredible sense of sweetness. You just knew this was a good man. Rest well, sweet prince. You are missed.
By Ken Webster
August 15, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this
Joe made me giggle like a schoolgirl. I've never met a funnier person. He was probably the most talented actor I ever acted with or directed, and he was the most decent and kind person I've ever known. I feel truly blessed to have been his friend. Austin theatre has lost a great talent and a great man.
By Pat York & Family
August 15, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
First we would like to thank all of you for your love and remembrances of Joe. We would also like to invite you all to sign the "Guest Book" provided in the article "Losing Joe York" by Michael Barnes (and a special "thank you" to Michael Barnes for writing such a nice article about Joe).
And to Joe, you have our everlasting love...from Mom, Mike, Pat, Tim, Graham, Buddy & Petey
By Steven Chambers
August 15, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
I echo what's already been said -- A sad day in the Austin theatre community, and for all of us who knew Joe personally. I only recently heard of his illness; his death is a shock. I remember first meeting Joe in the summer/fall of 1975 at St. Ed's. An incredible talent! My thoughts are with friends and family there and across the country.
By Rob Henninger
August 15, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this
Joe was always interested in how you were doing, and never was one to brag about his many accomplishments. An avid gym buff, he would encourage me to keep striving to better myself, and offer encouragement. He will be missed.
By Diane Day
August 15, 2007 8:47 AM | Link to this
How deeply saddened I am that we shall no longer have this beautiful man among us...As close to perfection in mind, body and soul as a person can be, Joe illumined all that he touched. This is a cruel, cruel loss.
By Ann C.
August 15, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this
What beautiful photos here and on the front of metro. Yes, Joe was not just a great performer but a designer, craftsman. He loved to DO. I love remembering him even with tears. It is our loss.
By Cyndi Williams
August 15, 2007 8:13 AM | Link to this
This is such sad news. I knew Joe ever since I lived in Austin, back in 79. I was terrified of him, because he was so tall, gorgeous, kind, intelligent, funny, and talented. It just seemed too much. Then he directed Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean, and gave me one of the best directions ever, "Cyndi, hold your head still. You look like a bobble-headed doll." And he was right, and I learned to hold my head still, and I loved him ever since then. He was another of the 57 baby crop of Austin theater folks, and now two of us are gone, him and Boyd, and it's heartbreaking.
I am in NYC for the my show at the Fringe, about to go to a lent apartment in Brooklyn. After our show tomorrow, we will lift a glass to Joe, one of the kindest directors and sweetest theater artists I have had the pleasure to know and love.
By Tom Parker
August 15, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this
Joe was probably the only person who didn't seem to know just how incredibly talented, beautiful and brilliant he was. The rest of us all knew and we will miss him.
By Chris Titus
August 15, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this
When someone like Joe leaves us, it is like having the wind knocked out of you. We can only be comforted by the fact that he is now in a place where there is no suffering or pain. I have so many great memories of Joe both in shows I saw him in and the few I had the pleasure of being in with him. Each time I think of him, a big smile is on my face - for that is the increadible affect he had on so many people. What a beautiful person...what a huge loss.
By Geo Haynes
August 15, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this
Hi Joe York,
Miss you with all my heart.
Hi Graham,Buddy,Barbara, friends and family:
I am so sorry for your loss. Joe was a wonderful friend and a joy. He will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love, Geo in San Francisco
By John Kovach
August 15, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this
My heartfelt condolences go out to Joe's family and to all who loved him. This is a terrible loss.
My daughter worked with him in a couple of productions when she was quite young. What I will most remember him for, besides his amazing talent, was how unfailingly gracious and kind Joe was toward her, my wife, and I.
By Gracen D
August 14, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this
Goodbye, Joe. You were a very special part of Austin.
By Nan
August 14, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this
Enormous talent. Huge Loss.
I guess the last solo we heard Joe sing on stage here was "I'm Going Home".
By Sandy Walper
August 14, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
Joe York was and will remain Austin's ultimate Renaissance Man. He enlightened and inspired every person and every project he ever touched. In every sense of the word, he was the most beautiful man I ever met in show biz.
Because of all the color, brilliance, talent and heart that was Joe York, we all learned more, laughed more, and probably liked ourselves more. And because of our love for him and our trust in him, we were willing to give more of ourselves.
What more can you ask of any human being?
Dearest, dearest Joe. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Rest in peace. Because dear God, have you earned it.
By Susan Branch
August 14, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
I first saw Joe in shows back in the late 70s, admiring his performing talent from afar. The first time we worked together, however, he sewed about 40 western shirts for the 1982 Zilker Summer Musical which I costumed. Later, I came to appreciate him as a gifted director, designer, craftsman, web artist, and most especially, as a treasured friend. Rarely have I known anyone to do so many things exceptionally well, and never with as much humility and generosity. I'm immeasurably grateful to have known him.
By Tai Somoskey
August 14, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
Joe was one of a kind. This is truly sad. It brings me comfort knowing he will be received in heaven by waiting Angels, many of which are his friends that preceeded Joe in death. THE SHOW MUST GO ON! Everyone in heaven will forever be entertained. Rest in Peace, Joe.
By Paula Gilbert
August 14, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Goodby, Joe York. You were a special angel to many. Thank you for sharing your soul with us all these years.
By A sad day indeed
August 14, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
First, Boyd Vance ( http://www.austin360.com/arts/content/arts/10vanceobit.html )
Now, Joe York.
A very sad day.
The first play I ever saw him in was a Zilker presentation of Oklahoma. He stole the show with his beautiful baritone voice.
As an aside: You might want to check before you contribute toward his medical bills. Unless he had a family of his own (not extended family), only his estate will be responsible for these medical expenses. If these medical expenses exceed his estate, the providers cannot pursue anyone except a spouse or his estate. However, keep your wallet handy because his extended family may need funds for funeral expenses.
By Joan
August 14, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Just an old gal in E. TX. that saw Joe in Forever Plaid, and oh how I would have loved to be his "prom date or have him cater a function" for me, if I had a function:) I know he will be sorely missed.
By Wendy Zavaleta
August 14, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
How fortunate I feel to have been able to catch Joe last fall in "Rocky Horror". He was mesmorizing. Terrible loss.
By Evan Kelley (Austin)
August 14, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
I'm saddened, as are many in Austin, to hear of Joe York's passing. I've had the privilege of working with Joe only twice in years past. Both experiences have remained as pleasant memories of our professional acquaintance.
By Paul Beutel
August 14, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this
It was my good fortune to know Joe from the time he was a student at St. Ed's and I was writing reviews for the Austin American-Statesman. He had that special spark of great performers even as a teenager. Talent and charm for days, with a sweetness that made him irresistably appealing. In the late '70s, I was lucky enough to perform with him in assorted musicals at Austin theatres. He was so gifted, so gracious and so caring with his fellow actors. "Ego" was simply not part of his vocabulary. Watching him continue to mature as a performer over the years was an endless source of joy. I know hundreds, perhaps thousands of other Austinites felt the same way. Thank you, Joe, for all the warmth and joy you brought to so many.
By David Bates
August 14, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
I saw Joe both times he was here for Rocky Horror at the Zach. He was simply amazing.
What a loss. What a shame.
By Emily Erington
August 14, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
I am so sad that this world no longer has Joe in it. He was a beautiful man and a genuine friend. I shall be listening to his CD, My Favorite Year, and thinking of him, especially when I hear him sing, "Smile". Joe, you left a wonderful mark, you gave people wonderful memories. That is a life well lived. Bless you.
By schlobits woman
August 14, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
are there any details about funeral arrangements
or memorial services yet? joe was so beloved.
By R
August 14, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
We so enjoyed Joe's performances. Austin will deeply miss him. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
By Love Train
August 14, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
Please don't forget that Joe's medical bills are still coming in and that the "Love Train To Brooklyn" hasn't stopped rolling.
You can visit http://www.zachscott.com/zmail/zmail_Joe_York.html to donate.
A friend of Joe...