Memories of SBCC Theatre instructor and actor Edward Romine
By Katie Laris, Associate Professor and Co-chair, SBCC Theatre Department
A dear colleague recently passed away. Here are a few words about him:
The Theatre Department is mourning the passing of a longtime adjunct teacher, Edward Romine, who taught acting at SBCC from 1987-2012. He performed in theatres all over Santa Barbara and was in several productions of the Theatre Group at SBCC including Shadowlands, To Kill a Mockingbird, Taking Sides, Ghosts, Expecting Isabel and Through the Fire. He was adored and respected by his students as a caring and passionate teacher who encouraged creativity, imagination and joy in every aspect of performance.
Edward was born in New Hampshire and raised in Vermont. His theatre career started in summer camp where, as a camper and later a Counselor, he wrote, directed and starred in skits for the talent nights. He graduated from Bates College in Maine, where he was a teaching assistant for the summer theater camp. On Cape Cod he was active in Cape Cod Winter Theater.
He moved to Santa Barbara in 1974 and was involved with Santa Barbara Playhouse, Alhecama Theater, Theater Paradox, Ensemble Theater Project, and Speaking of Stories. He also performed at PCPA and at UCSB, where he earned his Masters Degree. He earned three Independent Theater Awards for his acting over the years.
After retiring in 2012, he continued to be involved in his community as a member of the Lompoc Valley Master Chorale, singing baritone, and occasionally acting as emcee for productions, and singing in church choir and directing special church pageants.
