Obituary of Joan August Kucinski

January 7, 2012 Joan August Kucinski, 83 born in Chicago, IL on March 16, 1928 to Rose and John August passed away peacefully with Fritz by her side on January 7th. Joan August was a graduate of Northwestern University School of Music and studied music 4 years in Italy. On Broadway, Joan was an Original Cast member of Camelot (1961) starring Richard Burton, Julie Andrews and Robert Goulet, she also was on the Original Broadway Cast Recording. Joan also appeared in Dusty Rides Again and was Kate Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly (1965) with the New York City Opera Company where she performed for 20 years. It was during this time that she met and married her, late husband (1999), Arthur Kucinski, who was himself a member of The New York City Opera. After they left the NYC Opera, Joan and Art opened “Glorianna Productions” were they performed Gilbert and Sullivan throughout the United States. On May 10, 1992 Joan was honor by The West End Collegiate Church in N.Y.C. for 35 years singing as an Alto with the “Solo Quartet”. After retiring Joan and Art moved to Syracuse. Joan enjoyed attending the Syracuse and Glimmerglass Opera with her dear friends Barbara Omicinski and Margaret Shaughnessy. Over her performing career On Broadway and in The New York City Opera, Joan made some very close friendships; one of her favorites was with her bowling partner, Placido Domingo. Joan is survived by her brother-in-law, Fritz (Barbara) Kucinski and several nieces and nephews. Fritz would like to thank the staff of James Square Nursing Home, especially Lynn McCabe, Sue, Nancy, Tony, and everyone on D floor, for the loving care they gave to Joanie. Memorial Services celebrating Joan’s life will be held at a time to be announced.