Randy Jones, a beloved Maine theater performer and community advocate, died Wednesday after suffering an apparent heart attack while performing in a dress rehearsal at Lakewood Theater in Madison. He was 63, according to an article at centralmaine.com.
Jones was onstage in full costume and playing the lead in “The Village Idiot” when he collapsed during Act 1. His final line was, “You can’t take it with you.” Cast members immediately began CPR and maintained his airway until paramedics arrived. The production was later canceled.
Friends and fellow performers remembered Jones as a talented and versatile actor, a devoted husband and father, and a generous member of the community.
Jones discovered acting in his 40s after seeing a 2004 production of “Oklahoma!” at the Waterville Opera House. He had moved to Waterville to teach computer science at Colby College and already had a strong connection to the arts, playing trumpet and singing in the college chorus. Seeing the musical inspired him to pursue a longtime dream of becoming an actor.
He went on to perform at the Waterville Opera House, Gaslight Theatre in Hallowell and Lakewood Theater. His performances earned a reputation for being dependable and memorable, whether he had a leading role or a smaller part.
Jones also used his passion for theater to strengthen the Waterville community. In 2023, he and his wife, Lisa, purchased the former Railroad Square Cinema and turned it into The Playhouse at Waterville Station, a performing arts and cultural center.
The idea grew partly from Jones’ involvement with Aqua City Actors Theatre. After the group lost its downtown performance space, Jones and Lisa decided to create a permanent home for the theater company. The Playhouse also became a venue for the Elm City Community Music School, a recording studio and other performers.
Jones did not charge Aqua City Actors Theatre rent and sometimes asked other performers to contribute whatever they could afford.
“Basically, we don’t say no,” Jones said shortly before his death.
His son, Benjamin Cojo, said his father’s love of the arts was closely tied to his commitment to helping others.
“Having community, being supportive of people, outreach — that was core to him through and through,” Cojo said.
Lakewood Theater officials also remembered Jones for his generosity, intelligence and kindness. Katherine Quinn, president of Curtain Up Enterprises, called him “a true gentleman.”
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