Richard A. Eisenhardt (1935-2025)
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Theater critic and enthusiast Richard Eisenhardt passed away on January 10 at the age of 89. A man of the arts, Richard lived and breathed theater, music and cinema. For decades, he worked as a freelance theater critic, penning insightful and passionate reviews for publications such as The Village Voice and Streetwise. Later, he started a blog, where his sharp wit and keen observations earned him a loyal following. He self-published a theater review spanning 150 pages, chronicling decades of performances beginning in the 1970s. For decades, he attended 150 to 200 plays per year. His love for storytelling also took him to local television and radio, where he celebrated the stage with flair, humor and a deep appreciation for the craft.
Richard’s life was a symphony of connection, generosity and joy. Though he had few immediate family members, he wove a vast network of dear friends: neighbors, clergy, stage and screen actors, politicians, and amateur and professional athletes. Professionally, Richard served 44 years with CNW Railroad in passenger accounting. His personal passions were just as enduring: as a founding member of the Chicago Blackhawks Standby Club and a 30-year season ticket holder, he was a devoted fan through thick and thin and often wore his Blackhawk jerseys to the theater. (He was buried in a Blackhawk’s jersey and a hat listing the productions of Andrew Lloyd Webber.) Richard was born in Chicago on April 7, 1935 to Clarence and Eunice Eisenhardt, but was raised primarily by his mother and stepfather, Donald Nesselroth. He attended Blaine Elementary and graduated from Lake View High School in 1953, where he participated in their theater program. He later studied accounting at DePaul University and put his numbers skills to work while serving in the Army for two years in South Korea. Per his obituary — “Richard’s life was a masterclass in living fully and freely. He celebrated the human spirit in all its forms and inspired those around him to do the same. As we say goodbye to our dear friend, we hold onto the joy, laughter, and love he gave us.” With thanks to the Chicago Sun-Times. |