William “Bill” Silverberg
(June 14, 1944 – November 24, 2018)
All the world’s a stage… And one man in his time plays many parts…William Shakespeare
I don’t think anyone ever referred to William Shakespeare as Bill, but William Silverberg, who played many parts in his lifetime, had quite a few. Bill, Bubba, Bubby, Brother, and Billy to state a few. No matter the nickname, all agree that Bill, as a member of the Way Off Broadway Ensemble Players, strutted across a stage with great form and style. Of course, always supported by his lovely costar, Mrs. Talk To The Hand – Raquel Silverberg and first mate – Nathan Foreman.
Bill was a star from Biblical Joseph, through hapless Jubal (“Uh! Uh! Sheriff, I didn’t mean to shoot the preacher. It was just an accident.”), Fashionable Jubaldi (“Walk, the way I walk.”), A Knight Of No Respect, Feckless Wyatt URP whose greatest accomplishment was to not shoot himself in the foot, vain newscaster Ted Taxter who was more concerned about his hair than reporting the weather, and that sweet scarecrow who didn’t think he had a brain in The Wizard Of Odd. A role that defined his abilities was that of CAP E TAN JEAN LAFITTE SPELLED L A F F I T E. The only Jean Lafitte to have trod the boards wearing sunglasses.
Yet while he portrayed many characters, the part he played best wasn’t acting on a stage. It was the way he portrayed himself on the reality stage of life. Always a gentleman; funny, kind, generous, loving and giving anonymously to help others. Even now Raquel hears from folk whom he quietly aided during his lifetime. Oh, how we will miss him.
Yet, as the curtain falls on all these Oscar and Tony worthy events, his Oscer award winning local shows, a curtain is rising on his Heavenly stage. Family and friends who have been waiting for this performance are eagerly taking their places to enjoy his ethereal venue. And, there are reserved seats for loved ones who will later join him there.
Bill, by any name, thank you for the standing ovation life you lived. Well done. BRAVO! BRAVO!
[Written By Linda Elissalde]
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Absolutely perfect tribute for a fabulous guy. We are all better for having known him.
A well written tribute Linda! From Gail and I, THANK YOU!