Armand Marchand Obituary, Death New Bedford, MA — The New Bedford community is mourning the profound loss of Armand Marchand, a pioneering figure in the city’s cultural landscape and the beloved founder of New Bedford Festival Theatre (NBFT). Marchand passed away this week, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the arts across the South Coast and inspired generations of performers, educators, and theater lovers.
A warm, spirited, and deeply creative force, Armand Marchand co-founded the New Bedford Festival Theatre in 1990 with his life and creative partner, George Charbonneau. Together, they envisioned a space that would not only bring the magic of Broadway to New Bedford but also elevate local talent. For nearly three decades, Marchand served as NBFT’s Executive Producer, overseeing dozens of acclaimed musical productions and earning multiple Moss Hart Awards for excellence in theater.
“Armand’s warmth, creativity, and generosity of spirit left an indelible mark on the Zeiterion and on the countless lives he touched through theater,” shared a representative from the NBFT Board of Directors. “While we continue to dedicate time to this summer’s musical—the way we all know Armand would’ve wanted—please know the entire board mourns this tremendous loss.”
Marchand’s influence, however, extended far beyond the stage. Before his work with the Festival Theatre, he spent 35 years as a teacher at New Bedford High School, where he co-directed the drama club alongside Charbonneau. There, he nurtured the talents of young actors, directors, and designers, many of whom went on to pursue careers in the performing arts.
“Armand had a huge impact on the careers of so many,” the NBFT Board noted. “That impact—along with the Festival Theatre—is his legacy. He made people believe in the transformative power of theater.”
Among the many tributes pouring in is one from Leo Schick, who served as corporate treasurer on NBFT’s board for over 31 years. “Yesterday, I lost one of my closest and dearest friends of 42 years,” Schick wrote. “I was fortunate enough to be with Armand and George at the creation of our live theatre production company. His legacy to the city of New Bedford and the South Coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island will continue through the years at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, bringing the best of Broadway for many years into the future.”
Indeed, Marchand’s vision transformed the Zeiterion into a hub of artistic excellence. Under his leadership, the theater became a cultural beacon in New Bedford, bridging professional theater with community engagement and serving as a launchpad for emerging talent.
His colleagues and students remember him not only for his artistic brilliance but for his humor, compassion, and steadfast belief in the power of storytelling. Many recall how he never lost sight of the people behind the performances—nurturing their confidence, guiding their growth, and celebrating their successes.
As the community grieves, there is comfort in knowing that Marchand’s legacy endures in every song, every scene, and every standing ovation. The Festival Theatre he helped build remains a testament to his passion and vision, continuing to inspire future generations.
“Our thoughts remain with Armand’s family and friends, especially his beloved George Charbonneau,” the NBFT Board said. “It’s with Armand’s voice in our heads that we move forward, knowing: The show must go on.”
Armand Marchand’s impact on New Bedford’s cultural identity is immeasurable. His legacy lives on not just in the productions he brought to life, but in the lives he touched—students, artists, and audiences alike—who carry forward his love for theater and community.
