Remembering Lou Trapani

In July of 2024, Former Artistic & Managing Director of The CENTER, Lou Trapani passed away.

Lou was the founding Artistic & Managing Director and steward of The CENTER for Performing Arts for 25 years. He directly influenced and shaped every change, improvement, and initiative at The CENTER.  In the last few months alone, he championed the creation of our Black Box Theatre, applying for grants for this as well as our education programs. Lou directed dozens of productions and acted in dozens more. His booming, powerful voice, once heard, cannot be forgotten; we will remember it always.

Lou was a charismatic and original person who left an impression on everyone he encountered- and he encountered a lot of people! Lou’s influence on The CENTER and, we don’t think it’s too much to say, New York state cannot be quantified. From theatre in NYC to AmeriCorps to government to teaching and mentoring, Lou touched a lot of lives. Lou encouraged artists of all ages, and many adults cite Lou’s interest and encouragement of them as a youth as a defining force in their lives. He absolutely influenced the professional and personal lives of the staff who worked with him. He always wanted to say yes, to take a chance on people, sometimes people he had just met, and it was an admirable quality and example to people who work with and for and about people.

Lou loved to write and was working on at least two novels in the past few years. He understood the importance of a fine wine and spirit, as many of the restaurants in Rhinebeck can attest.  He loved to talk about movies and TV shows and actors and had the most remarkable memory. He also loved all of our children, his partner Emily, his family, and his cat Marnie beyond measure, as we loved him.

Per Lou’s wishes, a celebration of life will take place at The CENTER. More information will be forthcoming.

- The CENTER Staff

Read more about Lou’s life and legacy:

Official Obituary

Hudson Valley Pilot

The Daily Catch

Daily Freeman

The Lou Trapani Legacy Fund

The Lou Trapani Legacy Fund is dedicated to preserving the vision and passion of Lou Trapani, who served as the Artistic & Managing Director of The CENTER for 25 years. Contributions to this fund will support the ongoing operation and maintenance of The CENTER, as well as bolster the educational programs that Lou deeply cherished and supported. Your donations will help ensure that Lou's commitment to arts and education continues to flourish.