New Bedford Mourns the Passing of Armand Marchand, Visionary Founder of Festival Theatre
New Bedford, MA — With profound sadness and deep gratitude, the city of New Bedford and the broader artistic community mourn the loss of Armand Marchand, the visionary founder and beloved Executive Producer of New Bedford Festival Theatre. A titan in regional theatre, a mentor to many, and a treasured citizen of his hometown, Armand passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to the performing arts that will resonate for generations to come.
A Life Devoted to Theatre and Community
Armand Marchand was more than a producer—he was the heartbeat of live theatre in southeastern Massachusetts. For over three decades, he poured his energy, vision, and spirit into building the New Bedford Festival Theatre into one of the region’s cultural crown jewels. Under his leadership, the organization became known for staging Broadway-quality musicals that captivated audiences and nurtured local talent.
Born and raised in New Bedford, Armand’s connection to his community was deeply rooted. He understood the power of theatre not only as entertainment but as a transformative force—one that could inspire, unite, and elevate people of all ages and backgrounds. Through his work, he turned the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center stage into a place where magic happened—where young performers could dream big and where seasoned professionals could return to their artistic roots.
Armand’s passion was infectious. Audiences admired his warmth and candor during curtain speeches, while actors and crew members remember his boundless enthusiasm, attention to detail, and deep respect for every aspect of a production. From casting and costumes to lighting and music, he oversaw it all with grace and gusto.
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
Under Armand Marchand’s direction, the New Bedford Festival Theatre became synonymous with excellence. Year after year, crowds packed the theatre for beloved classics such as Les Misérables, West Side Story, My Fair Lady, Chicago, Mary Poppins, and Hairspray, among countless others. His productions earned acclaim not only for their high-caliber performances but also for their heart and humanity.
Armand was known for championing local talent, giving young actors and backstage professionals a place to grow and thrive. Many alumni of the Festival Theatre credit him with jumpstarting their careers in the arts. He was a mentor in the truest sense—generous with his time, honest in his feedback, and always quick to celebrate the successes of others.
Beyond the stage, Armand was a lifelong educator, serving as a drama teacher and mentor throughout his career. He brought theatre into schools, inspired hundreds of students to explore the arts, and remained a steadfast advocate for arts education throughout his life.
A Pillar of the New Bedford Community
Armand’s influence extended far beyond the walls of the theatre. He was a beloved community figure who believed deeply in the potential of New Bedford. His work helped revitalize the city’s downtown arts district and turned it into a destination for culture and creativity. His collaborations with local businesses, schools, and nonprofit organizations reflected his belief in building community through shared experiences and artistic expression.
He was often seen walking downtown, chatting with locals, or attending community events, always ready with a kind word or a joke. His laughter was unmistakable, his warmth immediate, and his presence unforgettable.
As the community reflects on his passing, tributes have poured in from across the region and beyond. Fellow producers, actors, and civic leaders have described Armand as a “giant in the arts,” a “master storyteller,” and “a one-of-a-kind soul whose love for theatre changed lives.”
A Final Curtain, But Not the End
Though Armand Marchand has taken his final bow, his legacy lives on—in the footlights of the Zeiterion, in the voices of the young actors he mentored, and in the memories of every person who ever sat in the audience, spellbound by the productions he brought to life.
Plans are underway to honor his legacy through a memorial celebration and a permanent tribute at the New Bedford Festival Theatre. There is also talk of establishing a scholarship or fellowship fund in his name to support aspiring young theatre artists.
In this time of mourning, there is also immense gratitude—for the life he led, the joy he gave, and the countless stories he told. As the theatre community prepares to dim the lights in his memory, one thing is clear: Armand Marchand’s story will never truly end. It will echo in applause, in song, in spotlight—and in the hearts of all who believe in the power of theatre.
“Theatre is not just what happens on stage,” Armand once said. “It’s about the people, the connections, the shared breath between actor and audience. That’s where the magic is.”
And that is where his spirit will always remain.