James R. Bianchi

James R. Bianchi, 61 of Brenham, died suddenly on Thursday, April 7, 2011. He was surrounded by friends and colleagues at his home, the Unity Theatre.

He was born June 21, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio, to parents John Bianchi and Alice (Grammer) Bianchi. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Harold Bianchi. He is survived by his partner Osman Bol; his brother Buddy Bianchi; sisters-in-law Mary Bianchi and Peggy Bianchi Dixon; and nephews Brad Bianchi, Fred Bianchi, and Warren Bianchi.

Jim graduated from Lakewood High School (Ohio) and earned a BA degree in English Literature from Bowling Green State University, where he also studied theatre and acted in many plays. After college he traveled throughout the United States acting in summer stock and dinner theatre, and settled in New York City where he lived for more than 30 years, pursuing a career in the theatre. He is the author of Red, Hot and Cole, a musical review of the life and work of Cole Porter, which was first produced at Barksdale Theatre in Richmond, Virginia, and where he originated the role of Cole Porter. He has long been a proud member of the Actors’ Equity Association.

He moved to Brenham, in March 2009 to assume the position of General Manager for Unity Theatre, where he continued to write, act, and direct. He was a popular spokesperson for the theatre and a favorite personality, known for his gracious manner and his witty curtain speeches.

A memorial service will be held at 7:30 p.m. today at Unity Theatre (300 Church Street, Brenham, Texas). Condolences may be sent to info@UnityBrenham.org and will be included in this celebration of his life.

Memorial offerings may be given in his name to Unity Theatre (www.UnityBrenham.org).

Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, Texas, (979) 836-3611, www.brenham-memorial-chapel.com.