Armand Marchand’s Enduring Impact on Young SouthCoast Performers

Armand Marchand brought more to the SouthCoast than just renowned talent and entertainment. He brought a special world for many locals that I won’t ever forget.

Most people know Armand as the boisterous personality and voice of New Bedford Festival Theatre. He was absolutely that fabulous of a person in real life.  

For those that were fortunate enough to either have him as a high school English teacher, mentor or friend, you know he was also so much more.  

READ MORE: New Bedford's Beloved Armand Marchand Inspired Generations

It started with a high school audition at New Bedford High. I think the year was 2001. 

How a Nervous Teen Found His Spotlight

I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I had never sung, danced or acted in my life. It was an audition for the very big musical, Hello, Dolly.  

My nerves were shot but I went in and auditioned. I very vividly remember the blank look on Armand’s face during my audition, not knowing if he liked me enough to cast me. As I left the room, I thought there was no way I was getting in the show.

A week later, I was cast in the ensemble and even given an understudy role to a main role. I was in complete shock but also excited; was I actually good? 

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Rehearsals were long, but boy, did I come into my own, with dancing and belting my heart out. It was the beginning of that addictive energy of being on stage. 

Thank you, Armand. That was the first time I ever felt I was where I belonged. 

The Apprenticeship That Changed Everything

Fast forward to the next summer, and Armand asked me if I was interested in being an apprentice for the New Bedford Festival Theatre. They put on two shows every summer and needed apprentices. It was a chance for me to work with real professionals, some of whom performed on Broadway, all while gaining experience and making a little money. 

READ MORE: New Bedford High's Little Theater Sparks Memories

Fast forward again, the summer after my apprenticeship I got up enough gusto to audition for and was cast in Beauty and the Beast. It was an ensemble role with lots of dancing and – you guessed it – singing.  

It was that summer that I truly felt comfortable being my authentic self, again, thanks to Armand. 

The Power of a Safe Creative Space

Armand and his partner George had created a safe space for local youth and national talent to do what they love, unapologetically. I stepped into that safe space and found myself along the way. Looking back, this regional theatre group probably saved me from myself.  

They were passionate about putting on a good show, but even more so about bringing out the best in each and every cast member while instilling the work ethic it took to put on that caliber of show they wanted to give everyone that attended the "Z." 

More Than Just a Theatre Director

Armand’s quick wit always made the cast laugh and broke up the long rehearsal days. I honestly can't imagine I’d be where I am now without my experience and opportunity with NBFT. 

A Full-Circle Moment at Fun 107

It was one of the most rewarding full circle moments of my life to welcome Armand into the Fun 107 studio where he let me interview him for one of the New Bedford Festival Theatre shows. I could tell Armand and George were both proud to see me in action and still in show business.

Armand, you and George created something so incredibly special, and while you may have just wanted to bring Broadway to the SouthCoast, which you did very successfully, your true legacy will be those that have forever "been changed for good."

Rest in peace, you absolutely fabulous human. You are already missed, Armand Marchand.