REMEMBERING MICHAEL BRINDISI

June 22, 1948 – February 5, 2025

We will always hold in our hearts the memory of Michael Brindisi — our beloved Artistic Director, President, and dear friend. Since 1971, Michael’s vision and passion shaped Chanhassen Dinner Theatres into a place where stories come alive and magic unfolds on stage night after night. His spirit will forever be part of this theatre and all who were lucky to know him.

On April 7, 2025, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres hosted Remembering Michael Brindisi on our Main Stage — a heartfelt memorial honoring Michael’s remarkable life and enduring legacy. For those who were unable to attend, a full recording of the event is available below.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be directed to:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: StJude.org

American Civil Liberties Union: ACLU.org

Read Michael’s Obituary

View Michael's Memorial

View Past Shows & Interviews

In Memoriam

We want to celebrate the incredible legacy Michael has left behind. On this page, you’ll find stories, memories, and photos capturing the moments that defined his life and career.

Brindisi Family

Life in the theatre was a family affair. Michael pictured with his wife, Michelle Barber and daughter, Cat Brindisi-Darrow.

Michael in Fiddler On the Roof

Michael Brindisi was cast as Motel the Tailor in CDT productions of Fiddler on the Roof in 1971, 1978 and 1987. All directed by Founding Artistic Director, Gary Gisselman.

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ 50^th Anniversary Gala

The audience was paramount to Michael Brindisi and nearly all of his decisions came down to the guest experience. Michael strongly believed that what we did here at Chanhassen had the ability to change people and transform lives.

Michael and His Daughter Cat Brindisi-Darrow

Doting father, Michael brings daughter Cat to a rehearsal of the World Premiere of Dan Goggin’s Nunsense Jamboree.

Michael Brindisi with a Special Cast Member

Always one to play along with a publicity stunt, Michael welcomes Tobias the pig backstage for his star turn in the Regional Premiere of State Fair.

Michael in Grease

This is a photo of Michael when he played the role of Kenickie in the National Tour of Grease in 1977. Landing this role was pivotal in his career, which eventually brought him back to CDT.

Opening of Brindisi’s Pub

Cat Brindisi-Darrow with her dad on the opening day of Brindisi’s Pub in 2012. The Pub opened on Michael’s Birthday, June 22, and is known as a favorite hangout spot for regulars and staff.

Michael with His Wife, Michelle

Michael with his wife Michelle pose for fun at a photocall for The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Michael’s Main Stage directorial debut as newly named Resident Artistic Director. It opened March 1988.

Michael with the President of the Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization

Michael with friend Ted Chapin, President of the Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization (NYC) on the occasion of the World Premiere of Irving Berlin’s Easter Parade, a collaboration between CDT and R & H in 2007.

Michael Brindisi and Gary Gisselman

Michael with his mentor and friend, Founding CDT Artistic Director Gary Gisselman. Gary first hired Michael in 1971 to be the strolling accordionist in Thornton Wilder’s The Matchmaker, where he also earned his union card.

Michael and Cat on the First Day of Rehearsal

(Photo courtesy of The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Michael was well-known for his first day of rehearsal talks with the company of actors, technicians and artisans. Michael and his creative team work many months in advance, creating plans for costumes, scenic design and more in preparation for the first day of rehearsal when the cast arrives. Michael with his daughter Cat Brindisi-Darrow on the first day of rehearsal for Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This was a special production as Cat and Michael served as co-directors on the project and what a special production it was.

Michael on Lori & Julia

Always a friend to the media, Michael did the most generous and warm interviews. Here he is pictured with Cat Brindisi-Darrow and MyTalk 107.1 radio personalities, Lori & Julia, when they were on to talk about Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

Michael as Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof

Michael joyfully returns to his acting roots as he goes on to understudy the role of Tevye in CDT’s 2013 production of Fiddler on the Roof.

CDT Owners & Managing Partners

Michael pictured with Tamara Kangas Erickson and Steve Peters, managing partners on the CDT ownership team on the occasion of CDT’s 50th anniversary. Friendship and collaboration meant so much Michael. These three forged the path to purchasing CDT in March of 2010. Michael’s vision to change up the business model led to renewed growth and success for CDT.

Michael and Solveig Huseth Theis, CDT General Manager

Michael and Solveig had a dynamic working partnership from the mid-80s to current day. It is difficult to put into words how these two were just in each other’s heads. From the theatre department to food and beverage and everything in-between, they always had each other’s backs.

Michael Directing

Michael in full-on director mode during tech week. Turns out that you actually CAN put a major full-scale musical production together in less than three weeks of rehearsals, and with only three days on the stage before opening.

Michael with Jim & Sandi Jensen

Michael shared friendships with so many, but Jim and Sandi Jensen, also in the CDT ownership group, were very special to he and Michelle.

“Michael was a gem. He directed me in a production of Mamma Mia! At Circa 21 and it was a lovely experience. A man full of warmth and heart. OPA! Peace and love to the Brindisi family!”

– Dan Hasty

“I had the pleasure of playing DONNA under his direction of MAMMA MIA at Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse. He was a JOY to work with and quite frankly I found him one of the most inspiring people I have met. May he rest in Peace. I will remember him always.”

– Kimberly VanDerGinst

“Michael gave me my first professional job at Paul Bunyan Playhouse and then took me a long with him and Michelle when they ran Festival Theatre in Albert Lea. Now, over 40 years later, I can absolutely credit him with giving me the confidence and the training to make a lifelong career in this industry. He was an inspirational and warm visionary that I am proud to have known. RIP, dear Michael.”

– Cory Johnson

“Lovely human. It was an honor to have him in all of our lives.”

– Lizz Matteson

“I first met Michael when he was a guest lecturer in my theatre class at Metropolitan State University. I knew then he had a love for people and storytelling. I ended up being a freelance reviewer and got to see 25 shows which he directed. Not a bad one in the bunch. His humanity was crystal clear in his direction. Each show told a story and the message stuck with me. A Michael Brindisi show was entertaining, but it was so much more. During the pandemic I reached out to him. I felt for all the actors in The Music Man. I expressed to him that I was thinking of him and his cast. I explained that this show had so much meaning to me as it was the first show I saw my dad perform in and that led me to the stage. When my dad died it was his request that the recessional was 76 trombones. Michael’s reply was heartfelt and sincere. He invited me and my family to attend the reopening of the show. I will never forget that sweet gesture. In response to his generosity I invited him to a production of Joseph I was in. He and Michelle came and afterwords he emailed me expressing his appreciation and told me how wonderful I had been. That meant a lot. I never got the courage to audition for him. I knew my odds of being cast were slim, but I knew he’d respect my effort and make me feel comfortable. I regret not trying. The lesson learned is to always try to make your dreams come true. The next time there are auditions I will partake in his honor. My deepest condolences go to his family. Thank you Michael. Your support and willingness to help will never be forgotten. Rest easy.”

– Blair Reynolds

“We all owe a huge debt of heartfelt gratitude to Michael.

I had seen Michael many times around the Theatre, but never had a chance to talk. One summer night, as I was singing on the patio of Brindisi’s, I walked over to say hello and introduce myself. He acknowledged me like an old friend… and then told me a story about when he was auditioning for his first play at My Holyoke College in Massachusetts – he shared that he sang Bobby Darin’s Mack The Knife. He asked if I could sing it for him, so I did… and his smile is nicely imprinted in my memory.

Ironically, I was born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts – and my Grandmother lived in Holyoke. Six degree’s of Separation!!! Kind of wild when you think of it.

My Dad George was also a renowned nightclub & society singer all around Western New England. He always sang mack the Knife … and I can’t help but wonder if Michael may have ever heard him if he went to college in Holyoke.

Rest in the arms of Heaven Michael
Salute!!”

– Wayne Anthony

“There was nothing more enjoyable than being at The Pub and talking theatre with Michael. His love of theatre was palpable.”

– Betty Jorgenson

“I first met Michael auditioning for Hello Dolly at CDT 11 years ago. I came in, danced my heart out and then they asked us to sing. Just happy birthday, how hard can it be? Dearest Andrew Cooke played it for us, we sang all together and then, it was time to each do it by ourselves. Well… little Delaney having some sense of relative pitch sang it in the original key he played it in, not what he was currently playing…oops! My first big audition flop. But to my surprise, Michael saw something in me (although not sure what it was from that performance). I got the call a couple of weeks later that I was cast! My first professional gig all thanks to Michael. It was during that show when I was first inducted into the CDT family. Then of course I auditioned for Mary Poppins where during my audition he said “Will you take voice lessons with my wife?” hinting that I’d be Jane Banks if I had a little tutoring. Of course I said yes and my first relationship with a voice teacher was born. I took lessons from Michelle at their house once a week for a few years. My love for musical theatre blossomed and it was during that show I realized it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I wanted to make people feel the way Michael made me feel. I wanted to take people away from Chanhassen, Minnesota and into whatever world we created. It was also during that show when Michael told me he knew I would make it big. He told me that if I keep working hard and there’s no doubt in his mind that I would succeed. I was 12, and aside from my family, that was the first time I had somebody believe in me like that and it’s something I’ll never forget. Growing up at Chan, him and Michelle were like an extra set of parents. They loved me and protected me fiercely. A piece of my heart will always be at CDT with the people I’ve been so lucky to call my chosen family and most importantly with Michael, for whom none of this love or pain would exist. I’ll miss him dearly, but a piece of my heart will always have the memory of his infectious laugh and warm hugs.”

– Delaney Hunter

“I was honored to work with Michael Brindisi at the Ordway Theatre in Anything Goes. I loved watching his process and bringing his character to life and he was just so funny. I also appreciated his encouragement each time I auditioned for any of the Chanhassen shows. My sincerest condolences for his family.”

– Myra Curry

“I’ve been at CDT since December 2019. Michael was always a welcoming person. Just recently I was wearing a Grease shirt and had a gentleman tell me he thought CDT put on a great production. I thanked him, and thought to myself, it’s all because of our CDT ‘family’ but also because of Michael.”

– Terry Kehoe

“Thanks for the amazing, belly laughing memories in Albert Lea that I have treasured all these years. Rest in peace, but do not go gentle into that good night.”

– Daniel Mohs

“I am sure heaven could use the great entertainment that Michael can devise. Rest in peace with a great cast!”

– Paul Frame

“Michael Brindisi changed my life when he gave me the opportunity to join the company of The Music Man as Zaneeta Shinn during my senior year of high school. I learned SO much at the dinner theatre: about the ins and outs of professional theatre, but also (more importantly) about being a kind and collaborative human being. Michael ran the ship with his heart first. This loss is so great in the Twin Cities theatre community because of how many people felt his care over the course of his life. I will always wish we had more time. Thank you thank you thank you, Michael, for the profound gift you gave to all of us. I am forever indebted to you.”

– Hannah Ervin

“I was so lucky to have worked with Michael on 2 wonderful occasions at Chanhassen! As Guenivere in Camelot, and Angie in The Prom! He was always the kindest and most collaborative director, and I loved every second of working with him. I am so terribly sorry that he has left us, but his legacy will live on! He brought so much love and joy and happiness to the theatre and made it the place it is today.. how lucky we were to know him! Thank you Michael… Thank you Michael for all the amazing things you have done for that wonderful Theatre. I am so lucky and thrilled to have been a tiny part of it. And both shows I performed there, were some of the happiest times in my life. Such joy! Such friendships.. and you were at the centre of it all! RIP Michael! A star will be shining bright for you always!”

– Helen Anker

“We celebrate our anniversary and birthdays at CDT because of the highly skilled and talented actors. Always a great evening and wonderful dinner. Top spot in the Twin cities area Many people make it great through their artistic dedication. Michael set the standards as director bringing out the best RIP and thank you for your legacy.”

– Donald R. Shifflet

“I came to know Michael first through his daughter, Cat, who I had the pleasure of working with while she was a student at UMD. Cat was smart and talented and funny and kind and it was clear that she came from a strong and supportive family. I got to know him a bit better as our department’s alliance with CDT developed and he would come and share his time with our students. Then I had the pleasure of working with him as the choreographer when he was the guest director for our production of She Loves Me in 2016. It was a show he said he didn’t think he would have been able to do at Chan, and so we loved that we were able to provide the opportunity. It was a gift to get to be in the room with him and be a part of the production that came together. His support of our students and their work was wonderful. The photo I’m including was taken in the house of our Main Stage at MPAC, the day we did publicity photos. May his memory continue to be a blessing, and sending much love to his nuclear family, and his theatre family, near and far.”

– Rebecca Katz Harwood
Associate Professor and Department Head
University of Minnesota-Duluth Theatre

“He could take little stuff and turn it in to Big Stuff – Beer Budgets into Champagne Performances – guide & direct A young talent Wanna Be into a seasoned Here I Am! He was given our Maker’s Greatest GIFT – LOVE – and shared it in Dramatic Fashion. KUDOS, Michael Brindisi.”

– Jack Gillespie

“I worked in the ticket office back in the day when we had paper tickets arranged in all those wooden slots.. Used the IBM Selectric to type in names for the gift certificates ! I only met you or said hello a few times and can say that I have admired all the amazing productions your CDT accomplished and I would always leave the plays feeling so ‘wowed’. May your Wow be felt wherever you are at peace.”

– Lily Rocchio

“Michael was a bright light! So much love to Michelle and Cat! Rest easy, sweet Michael.”

– Elise and Danny Schmitz

“Rest In Peace Michael Brindisi,
You have been a legend and a creator of magic on and off the stage. Thank you for making my childhood more magical and for taking care. Your legacy will live on. Sending love to the Brindisi family.”

– Emily Berg

“I got to know Michael through our daughters who were friends when they both studied and performed at Children’s Theatre Company. We had a friendly casual relationship then one day Michael called and asked me to meet with him at CDT. He knew of my background in theater and architecture and he told me they were interested in remodeling CDT. Needless to say I jumped at the chance! Working with Michael, Tamera and the whole crew at CDT was one of the most enjoyable and rewarding projects of my career! Michael was a dream to work with and his ability to visualize was astounding!

He always gave me a hug when we parted and I always felt I was a part of something big!!!

RIP dear friend!”

– Jim Smart

“I have only been an employee of CDT for less than two years and in that time was fortunate to get to see and talk to Michael on a few occasions. He was always kind and very humble every time I saw him.

I know he will be truly missed by all who have worked with him and loved him. Sending my thoughts and love to his family & friends. “

– Katie Kroeger

“I knew Michael for a short but sweet time. I met with Michael shortly before I graduated college seeking advice for pursuing a career in theatre. He graciously gave me hours of his time. He told me that when it comes to a career in the arts, I have to give it my all, that I have to jump in with ‘both feet.’ I have carried that advice with me ever since. Each time I talked to him afterwards Michael would tell the people around him that we had a ‘what do I do with my life’ conversation—he used that exact phrase every time, and every time it made me smile. His love for theatre and its performers was so evident to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.”

– Lydia Lee

“Thank you for bringing so much important art, culture, and community to Chanhassen and the Twin Cities at large. Your work was important and it no doubt touched the hearts and minds of millions of people throughout the years. Your memory will continue to live on in the lives of so many!”

– Brad Meaney

“Huge loss for the community. The Brindisi’s virtual FB happy hours helped the sanity for many of us. My sincere sympathy to the Brindisi family. 💔”

– Denise Finley

“I feel so thankful to have shared happy times with you. I will miss you. You will be remembered, you made a difference in so many people’s lives.”

– Donna Oster

“I will always remember you trying to guard me on the basketball court. Sorry I crossed you over so hard. Thanks for being the best friend to my father and for creating the such a magical family. CDT will not be the same without you. Please know how deeply loved you are by so many. CDT has changed my family’s life. And that’s all you, Michael. We love you.”

– Mary Lennick

“I miss the BBB (Beth, Brindisi, Barber) Movie Club with you. I miss going to the theater with you. I miss doing really bad Cockney accents with you. I miss you”

– Beth Barber

“Thank you Michael for all of the beauty, magic and fun you have brought to our Minneapolis communities over the years!”

– Kim Rumrill

“I first met Michael when I was five years old at a press night cast party. He invited me to Bill Barber’s funeral through my maternal grandparents, CDT’s founders. He brought me in for auditions but noticed my taking to ballet. If nothing else, after meeting that family friend, I would atleast remember how to spell the word ‘love.’ Michael was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. My favorite auditions for him were Nuncrackers/Fair Lady. He always had so much insight and knowledge to offer and for that I will always be grateful to have met and known him. Love.”

– Erin Devine

“In 1999, I ended my theater marketing career after almost ten years. Yet, theater was always my passion and my love. In 2010, I heard about the director of marketing & sales position and thought, maybe, this is my ‘second act.’ After my interview with Michael, Tam and Solveig, I knew that CDT was the place for me. Getting a chance to watch the ‘magic’ and be a part of the CDT family was a dream come true. Michael became my mentor, my biggest fan, the best hugger, and mostly, someone that I call ‘family.’ Since leaving CDT in 2012, I still felt like CDT and Michael were home to me. He always greeted me with a warm hug and smile along with the mention he missed me and wished I could come back. Michael will continue to be one of the most important people in my life for so many reasons. His loss is unbelievable, but his spirit and joy lives in those walls and on that stage. God Bless You, Michael. And, you never know, maybe someday I will be back. Blessings and love to Michelle, Cat, David and Henry <3”

– Katie Knutson

“I’m so sorry for your loss. Michael was such a kind hearted man. It’s because of him and the Chan team that I was given them chance to join AEA. He helped fulfill my dreams of performing on this beautiful stage and I am eternally grateful. Just before his passing, I was fortunate to email him and get a life update and boy did he ever brag up his family. He loved you all so much, and for good reason. God bless – and how lucky we all were to have known him.”

– Andrew Engel

“I got to see Michael one last time in December! At White Christmas! Here he is with my father, Doug, and Nancy. “

– Mary Lennick

“God Bless the Brindisi family!!”

– Mary Beth Stearns

“Like most, I gained my confidence as an actor from Michael. Always ready with a smile and compliment, he’s the type of director to instill his trust in you, but also push in all the right ways. Seeing him in the audience, even 300 performances into Hairspray, always brought a smile and that extra push you sometimes need.

Thank you, Michael, for you trust, your passion, and the confidence you have given so many of us. The theater community is a better place for having you in it.”

– Kaija Pellinen

“Great talent, gone too soon.”

– Marie Esch

“Thank you so much, Mr. Brindisi, for gracing me with the honor of being a main stage eMCee for such a wonderful theatre! R.I.P., good sir.”

– Rex Isom Jr.

“What a genuinely kind man.”

– Laura Lyons

“He was such an amazing inspiration to our community. What a wonderful legacy he created!”

– Tom Hoch

“I love you Michael, you changed my life for the better. I love you Cat and Michelle. “

– Jodi Carmeli

“Thank you Michael for. being a man of principle and integrity. It led to the fulfillment of a dream and some of the most memorable moments of my career. I carry that production of Rainmaker in a special place in my heart. Thank you for allowing me to be part of the Chanhassen Family. Rest In Paradise my friend.”

– James Williams

“It was an honor and privilege to work at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. As a hostess for 12 years, I had many roles to interact with the public and other employees. Michael was a highlight on any day. Too much to say and too little space and time. He will always be remembered. Michael, Thanks for the Memories!”

– Irene Oberstar

“We, many friends and also our children, Amy, Carrie, and Will, have many special memories of plays and wonderful meals at the Theater going back to the 1990’s. Thank you for the incredible effort, detail and love that goes into each play. Fred is a singer and sang all the songs from Jersey Boys for weeks after, and we had to buy CDs to play on road trips! We will miss Michael, and may he rest in peace!”

– Fred and Judy Potthoff

“I had the pleasure of speaking with Michael just a few times. He was a great host and warmly welcomed me and my guest to the Chanhassen.”

– Jim Borgerding

“Thank you for having faith in me!”

– Jenalia Valerio

“My heart is broken as I know yours is as well. Mike and I grew together until life sent us in different directions. He knew every current song and even better, invented a dance to riival the ‘TWIST’ in 1961.
There was no one more passionate about all aspects of the performing arts. I will miss my cousin dearly”

– Ernie Ricci

“I didn’t know Michael personally, but saw what he meant to so many of you at Chanhassen. Sounds like he was the kind of guy you don’t meet often. When there was work to do, he got it done with the help of all the people there who loved him.”

– Janet Olsen

“I first met Michael when our new church (Westwood) needed a place to meet on Sunday mornings. When asked if I go to the church that meets at the Chan Dinner theatre, I always got a chuckle when I replied…. ”I Do I Do! “
Then a few years later I started singing on a regular basis at the Pub named after Michael….Brindisis. When I would see Michael walk in… and he STAYED?… to listen to ME??? I felt such support and favor, and it just made me feel like part of the CDT family. I will really really miss him. God bless you all who feel his loss but keep this wonderful place going. It matters to all of us creative types.”

– Carol “Z” Zimmerman

“Enjoyed coming to Chan from the time my niece Tamara was a little girl in the Sound of Music – I used to bring her to rehearsals so I was very familiar with this glorious place! Michael and Michelle as well were always so friendly. Over the last 20 years having moved to Bemidji was only able to see a few shows but each occasion was like transporting to the most amazing theater experience one could ever imagine! He certainly was an amazing guy!”

– Deb Herbert

“I met Michael when he was at Lea College. I was in high school and was singing at the Coffee House . He was always.a wonderful sweet man.
He was always creating…he made me feel like I was one of the gang. No age difference. At that time for me he encouraged me to keep performing. I have so many memories of he and Michelle.. then along came Cat. Loved him and Michelle and Cat…my heart is broken but I think if him with Jeff, Bob and Joanie..Esther, Sam..sitting in the lake room Love you so much.”

– Becky Thompson

“Micheal taught me to love everybody and to take time for EVERYONE. That’s being a is what leadership is in a community. Thank you Micheal, I miss you terribly. Stay with us that saw your beautiful work and learned your way of living through love.”

– Ty Schwantz

“Michael radiated light and warmth. He immediately treated his casts like family. He gave so much love to the people he worked with, and it’s easy to see how much he was loved in return. He was a wonderful and inspiring man who will be so very missed.”

– Savannah Strandin

“Michael – I already miss your quiet soul and beautiful smile! I pray you are directing a fantastic show in heaven!! Rest in Peace!!”

– Ruth Chadderdon

“Many years ago, I did a play with Michael called “ the Robber Bridegroom “. In between rehearsals or whatever, if we had time, we went to the local elementary school and shot “buckets” on the playground. He loved to play h-o-r-s-e. He has probably engaged the Lord in a game already.”

– Dan Bakke

“I took over for Jeff Chandler in ‘Loot’ in the Fireside Theatre, where I had the distinct pleasure of working with Michael. But even before that he had become a good friend and his presence will be greatly missed. RIP, dear friend.”

– Clive Rosengren

“So thankful for the time we had on this planet with Michael – he was a gift to all who knew him . I’ll never forget his genuine love for people , for his theatre and his beautiful family . My love to Michelle and Cat and the entire Chanhassen Family . “

– Jalyn Webb

Michael in The Matchmaker at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (1971).

Photo provided by Tom Butsch.

“I met Michael when I was the newly hired resident designer at Chanhassen in 1971. I had fallen into the job by accident when the designer scheduled to do A Flea in Her Ear dropped out. I was very inexperienced, and in those days, we were changing shows every six weeks. My third show was The Matchmaker and it was complicated because there were four sets to shift in view of the audience. We had no orchestra, but our director, Gary Gisselman, had cast a guy who could play the accordion to provide atmosphere and generally be entertaining. That was Michael; he covered the scene shifts, had a wonderful presence on stage, and made a huge contribution to the period feel of the show.

Over the years as I improved as a designer, I saw Michael develop as an actor as Motel in Fiddler on the Roof, and in his roles in Loot and What the Butler Saw, and very memorably as Goat, the dumbest guy in the Natchez Trace in The Robber Bridegroom.

I left Chanhassen in 1985 to work in TV and at Disneyland. Then in 1988, Michael called to say that he had been chosen as the Artistic Director at Chanhassen and asked if I would design his first show, The Mystery of Edwin Drood. I was happy to do it and we had a great time with the old-fashioned English music hall look. That really was my last show at Chanhassen, but as time went on, I was delighted to see the changes that Michael and his partners made to improve the place and make it a lasting success.

I will miss him.”

– Tom Butsch

“I remember Michael from the Minnesota Festival Theater in Albert Lea, MN. I had season tickets every summer and thoroughly enjoyed the productions there. I was sad when he left but I knew CDT would benefit under his direction. I was not wrong. He set the bar high and I hope whoever takes his place will continue what he worked tirelessly to build. My sympathy to his loved ones and theater family.”

– Kim Gooden

My sympathy to his loved ones and theater family.”Michelle and Cat, sincere condolences for you. I am sorry for Michael to be taken away from his passion for his family and his life’s work. We grew up together and I have so many important memories that I treasure. I would love to talk with you. Cousin Ernie (cabrico@comcast.net)

– Ernie Ricci