Renowned and revered in the local theater community, Ron Sossi, the visionary founder of Los Angeles’ innovative Odyssey Theatre, has passed away at the age of 85. His legacy of challenging the status quo and fostering a space where creativity thrived has left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of L.A.
Born on November 22, 1939, in Detroit, Sossi’s journey to becoming a trailblazing theater director was as diverse as the productions he brought to life on stage. After studying writing for theater and television at the University of Michigan, he ventured to Los Angeles to pursue a degree at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for the performing arts and won the prestigious Samuel Goldwyn award for screenwriting.
Transitioning from a career in television to the world of theater, Sossi embarked on a bold new chapter in 1969 by opening the Odyssey Theatre in an unassuming part of Hollywood Boulevard. Despite its humble beginnings next to a porn theater, the Odyssey quickly became a beacon of artistic exploration under Sossi’s bold direction.
A Creative Maverick
Sossi’s innovative spirit and penchant for pushing creative boundaries were evident from the outset of the Odyssey’s journey. With productions like “A Man’s a Man” by Bertolt Brecht, “The Serpent” by Jean-Claude van Itallie, “The Threepenny Opera” by Brecht and Kurt Weill, and “The Bacchae” by Euripides, Sossi established the theater as a hub for avant-garde performances and reimagined classics.
Embracing metaphysical and philosophical themes in his work, Sossi’s approach to theater resonated with audiences seeking a deeper exploration of life’s existential questions. His commitment to presenting thought-provoking narratives set the Odyssey apart as a sanctuary for those who sought more than mere entertainment on stage.
A Legacy of Innovation
Over the years, Sossi’s dedication to nurturing emerging talent and showcasing the works of iconic playwrights like Harold Pinter, Samuel Beckett, María Irene Fornés, and Gertrude Stein solidified the Odyssey’s reputation as a breeding ground for creativity and artistic exploration. His unwavering belief in the transformative power of theater to challenge, inspire, and provoke thought has influenced generations of theater-makers and audiences alike.
In 1990, Sossi relocated the Odyssey to its current location on Sepulveda Boulevard, marking a new chapter in the theater’s storied history. The move to a larger complex allowed for even more ambitious productions and collaborations, further cementing Sossi’s legacy as a visionary in the world of theater.
While Sossi’s passing marks the end of an era, his wish for the Odyssey’s ongoing vibrancy to serve as his memorial speaks to his enduring commitment to the art form he dedicated his life to. Survived by his wife, Séverine Larue, and his sister, Nancy Foley, Sossi leaves behind a legacy of innovation, creativity, and boundless passion for the transformative power of theater.
As the curtain falls on a remarkable career that spanned over five decades, Ron Sossi’s impact on the world of theater will continue to resonate for years to come. In honoring his memory, we celebrate a true visionary whose fearless pursuit of artistic excellence has forever changed the landscape of Los Angeles theater.
