Shirley Jo Finney Obituary

The theater world is in mourning, as iconic director Shirley Jo Finney departed on October 10, 2023, at 74, after a courageous battle with cancer. Her longstanding creative association with The Fountain Theatre, where she directed eight remarkable productions, will remain etched in its history. The theatre has plans to commemorate Finney’s legacy with a memorial service, the date of which will be shared in due course.

Stephen Sachs, the artistic director of The Fountain Theatre, expressed his heartache, stating, “Announcing the loss of my cherished artistic sister is devastating. She was the cornerstone of my theatrical journey for over a quarter-century.”

Shirley Jo Finney, born on July 14, 1949, in Merced, CA, illuminated the theater realm with her multifaceted talents as both a director and actress. Her directorial excellence graced several revered regional theaters nationwide. The illustrious list includes LA Theater Works, Pasadena Playhouse, Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles, Goodman Theater in Chicago, Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Humana Festival in Louisville, and many more.

Finney’s collaboration with The Fountain Theatre began in 1997, with a commendable production of ‘From the Mississippi Delta.’ The LA Times lauded her innovative direction. Over the years, several of her productions garnered accolades. For instance, her direction of ‘Yellowman’ earned her the Beverly Hills/Hollywood NAACP Theatre Award for best director. Her take on ‘The Ballad of Emmett Till’ was another crowning achievement, winning Ovation, Los Angeles Drama Critic’s Circle, NAACP, and Backstage Garland awards. Additionally, her directorial magic extended to world premieres such as ‘Citizen: An American Lyric,’ ‘Heart Song,’ and ‘Runaway Home,’ for which she received an NAACP Theater Award nomination.

Furthermore, she directed Los Angeles premieres of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s plays, ‘In the Red and Brown Water’ and ‘The Brothers Size,’ earning her multiple awards and nominations.

Shirley Jo Finney’s remarkable journey in the realm of theater remains a beacon of inspiration, reflecting her dedication, passion, and immense talent. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of theater enthusiasts.