Ron Robinson’s passing a loss of greatness in Guyanese theatre & drama

Tributes continue to pour in following the recent passing of veteran Guyanese broadcaster and theatre actor Ronald “Ron” Robinson, with Al Creighton Jr describing his death as a massive loss to the greatness and achievement of the local performing arts sector. Robinson died early Friday morning at the age of 79 at his Hadfield Street, Georgetown, home after experiencing several health complications. His voice and vision helped shape Guyana’s media and cultural landscape for more than five decades. Only a few months back, Robinson had celebrated 60 years of being in radio and 70 years in theatre.
In paying tribute on behalf of The National School of Theatre Arts and Drama as well as of the National Drama Company, the Director of Studies, Al Creighton Jr, said Robinson was numbered among Guyana’s great theatre and broadcasting personalities. “The loss of Ron Robinson signifies the passing of an age of greatness and achievement in Guyanese theatre and drama. The National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, like the entire Guyanese nation, is in his debt and on this solemn and reflective occasion, acknowledges an outstanding artist and says thanks to Ron,” he stated. He further noted that Robinson reigned for decades as the nation’s best actor and best director, having been an actor, director, producer, radio and TV broadcaster, co-founder of The Theatre Company, Production Director of Merundoi radio series, former Chairman of the Theatre Guild, whose name became a household word in Guyana and who was famous for several memorable plays, dramatic performances, radio programmers, TV satirical series and as the winner of many awards and prizes. Robinson, he added, also served as a Tutor at the Drama School and a pioneering TV news anchor, who went onto break records with Gem Madhoo for the longest running and most popular dramatic productions, and contributed to culture in diverse ways. In a previous Facebook post, Robinson, a recipient of the national honour of the Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA) in 1990, had described his broadcasting career as “a most rewarding period of my life.” With over 2,000 interviews under his belt during his broadcasting career, Robinson’s accolades in the theatre and arts are highly celebrated. As a founding member of The Theatre Company of Guyana, he was the creator of popular local productions such as the radio programme Merundoi and a series of comedy specials. He was also very active in several other organisations including the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central, where he served as President. He was also Vice President of the Scout Association of Guyana and a director of the Volunteer Youth Corps. During his illustrious career, Robinson also played a major role in the motorsport sector, serving as President of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) for three terms (1991-1992, 1994-1995, and 2002-2004).