Case Western Reserve’s theater department lost one of its most loyal supporters when adjunct associate professor Kevin Moore died suddenly on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Managing director of the Cleveland Play House (CPH) since 2007, Moore actively engaged in the CWRU/CPH MFA Acting Program, regularly attending presentations and opening nights and also mentoring students.
In 2019 The Hollywood Reporter ranked the program 12th in the world.
“From the moment he arrived, Kevin was very involved in the success of the CWRU/CPH MFA Acting program,” said Jerrold Scott, chair of the Department of Theater. “He will be deeply missed as a colleague and partner.”
Calling hours for family and friends of Moore are today (Friday, Oct. 30) from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Zeis-McGreevey Funeral Home (16105 Detroit Ave., Lakewood), with a private service on Saturday.
Moore’s vision and his impact at Case Western Reserve will also endure through the CPH archives, which he brought to the Kelvin Smith Library in 2012 for preservation and to share with the world. The collection includes photos, playbills, program booklets, posters, scripts, set designs and more dating back to 1915.
“We were honored to receive this treasure of theater history,” said Arnold Hirshon, vice provost and university librarian. “We loved Kevin’s indomitable spirit and infectious enthusiasm. We grieve at the loss of his foresight and passion, taking some comfort that his enduring legacy will be borne anew each time someone asks us to retrieve a gem from the CPH archives.”
An arts leader locally and nationally, Moore oversaw a period of tremendous growth for the Cleveland Play House, including the organization’s move from East 85th Street and Euclid Avenue to Playhouse Square in 2011. He was instrumental in the building of The Helen and Outcalt Theatres and renovation of the Allen Theatre.
Moore and Artistic Director Laura Kepley guided the CPH centennial celebration in 2015, and together, they accepted the Tony Award for Regional Theatre that year on behalf of the organization.