by Walter M. Mayes, Artistic Director, South Bay Musical Theatre
Charles Michael Traw—“C. Michael” to everyone who knew him—passed away peacefully at the age of 85. His contributions to the Bay Area theater community were numerous and far-reaching. Over six decades, he directed, acted, and designed for countless productions, and also reviewed, taught, and served on the boards of several arts organizations. But it is as an indispensable member of the SBMT family that we remember him best. From the earliest days of the Saratoga Drama Group, he helped guide our organization—often shaping or selecting our seasons as a longtime Board member—and he directed nearly fifty productions for us from our first Hello, Dolly! through Fiorello! in 2015.
Known for his colorful costumes and meticulous attention to detail (“Where are your ear bobs, ladies?”), Michael almost always designed the shows he directed, preferring bright, joyful musicals to darker, grittier ones. He once told me, “I’m not a fan of shows with wretched, dirty people dressed in rags. I like shows where I can put the cast in colorful costumes!” Regardless of the show being produced, however, Michael was always on hand to pitch in; he rarely missed a move-in day, attended nearly every opening night, and tirelessly promoted our work in his columns and on social media. His impact on SBMT is immeasurable, and dozens upon dozens of performers benefited from his guidance, generosity, and keen artistic eye.
An Indiana native, Michael studied at Hanover College in Hanover, IN, and at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. He first worked on SDG productions in the mid-1960s and directed his first show for us—Hello, Dolly!—in 1971, ultimately staging it four times. I had the great pleasure of working with him when he cast me opposite Mary Melnick in the title roles of Mack & Mabel, a lesser-known Jerry Herman gem with an unforgettable score and a loving tribute to the early days of silent film.
We will dedicate a full page of our Little Women program to C. Michael. For now, please enjoy these photographs from our archives. Information about a memorial service will be shared through our weekly newsletter once details are finalized.
Photos of C. Michael from upper left:
- In 2012, with Karen DeHart and Mary Melnick during the first meeting for the production of Guys & Dolls.
- In 2010, at a birthday celebration following a performance of The Music Man.
- In 2013, at SBMT’s 50th anniversary gala, with long-time collaborator Lucy Haab.
- In 2001, surrounded by the ladies of SDG’s production of A Little Night Music.
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