Recently, while working on a poetry reading at Guild Hall, Marchese was overcome with a migraine seizure. The next morning, he was rushed to a local hospital, then transported to Stony Brook University Hospital, where doctors in the emergency room immediately performed emergency surgery to relieve the pressure on his brain, and discovered was a malignant and life-threatening brain tumor. The tumor is surgically inoperable, and doctors have prescribed a radical treatment of radiation therapy in hopes of stopping the tumor's swift progress. After spending 24 days in the hospital, Marchese has already started treatment five days a week for six weeks at Sloan-Kettering's centre in Commack.
Known as the 'Wizard of Guild Hall', Marchese is also the sole breadwinner for his family, which includes three young boys. Guild Hall hopes that the community will rally to support the Marchese family in this troubled time, just as he has supported so many students, actors, poets, dancers, writers, filmmakers, musicians, singers and entertainers in their efforts on the stage of the John Drew Theater over the years.
Marchese, 46, husband to Lea and father of three, has been the technical director at Guild Hall's John Drew Theatre in East Hampton, NY, since 1998. He has served as production manager of The Ritz on 54th, monitor engineer for Iggy Pop, technical director of the Limelight, and stage manager for Allen Peppers. He has also actively supported community theatre and its artists for years. According to Lea Marchese, the tumor is inoperable. Joe is currently under the care of the doctors at Sloan Kettering in Commack, NY, and while the diagnosis remains questionable, the family remains optimistic.
Joe's wife, Lea Marchese told us: "We are looking for help from the industry Joe So loves and dedicated his life to. He has been there for so many people. Keeping things going, even when it looked like the show couldn't go on. Donating his time and expertise to many benefit concerts and events. Now he needs help. I know there are many people in the industry who still know and love him. Any help is appreciated."
An assistance fund has been established by Guild Hall. Gifts to the Marchese family can be sent to the attention of the Joe Marchese Benefit Fund at Guild Hall, 158 Main Street, East Hampton, NY 11937.
(Lee Baldock)
