Old Globe announces death of founding director Craig Noel at 94

The Old Globe in San Diego announced late Saturday that Craig Noel, founding director of the theater, died Saturday at his home. He was 94.

Noel spent more than 70 years at the Globe, beginning in 1937 as an actor. After he returned from service in the U.S. Army overseas in World War II, he returned to the theater, which he led during its growth into one of the country's leading regional theaters. He directed 200 works there and produced 270 more.

He received a National Medal of the Arts from President George W. Bush in 2007.

Here is the complete obituary.

-- Kelly Scott

Photo: Noel in a 2005 photo. Credit: Christine Potter / For the Times

Comments

[Stage Tech]

I was a scenic tech for the Old Globe in the 90s. Mr. Noel was a true gentleman & a beautiful soul. He invited the entire crew to his house for an x-mas party. Actors, ticket takers, front office & us... the lowly nail-bangers. Rest in peace, sir. I'll never forget your kindness & generosity.