The Living Theatre Co-Founder Judith Malina Dies at 88

According to The New York Times, actor and director Judith Malina, who founded The Living Theatre with her husband, Julian Beck, passed away today, April 10, 2015 in Englewood, N.J. at the Lillian Booth Actors Home, after suffering from lung disease caused by years of smoking. She was 88.

Co-founder of The Living Theatre, the oldest experimental theater group still existing in the U.S., the legendary Malina was a pioneer, mentor, and historical connection to the cultural landscapes of New York City. The Living Theatre's first production was Gertrude Stein's DR. FAUSTUS LIGHTS THE LIGHTS in 1951 at the Cherry Lane Theatre.

Among her off-Broadway credits as an actress are RICHARD II, THE ONE AND THE MANY, THE YELLOW METHUSELAH, MAN IS MAN and THE THEATRE OF CHANCE. She also directed THE ANTIGONE OF SOPHOKLES, THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF SLEEP, THE BRIG, THE CONNECTION, THE APPLE, IN THE JUNGLE OF CITIES and more.

In addition to her work with The Living Theatre, Malina's credits include numerous film appearances, including roles in DOG DAY AFTERNOON, THE ADDAMS FAMILY and HOUSEHOLD SAINTS.

The Living Theatre will continue to produce work under Brad Burgess, Tom Walker and Garrick Beck, who will share directorial duties. Burgess is the troupe's artistic director.

Pictured: Julian Beck and Judith Malina founded The Living Theatre more than 65 years ago. Photo: Facebook.