In Memory of Jerad Callen

I saddened to learn of the sudden death of friend and fellow actor, Jerad Callen. I hear that he passed away in bed of pancreatitis on Monday morning December 6th, 2010. As an active member of the Orange County/ Los Angeles theatre community and a kind hearted gentleman, Jerad will be deeply missed.

I first met Jerad in the Fall of 2007 at the La Habra Depot theatre, where a mutual friend was directing a production of Rehearsal for Murder. Jerad played the lead, Alex Dennison, a playwright and self-proclaimed detective investigating the mysterious death of his fiancé, Monica Welles. I played Monica in a series of flashbacks. While Jerad and I had some conflicting ideas regarding our approach to the work, it was clear to me that his dedication was immeasurable and his work soulful in nature. He lived and breathed the theatre. He was a quirky character in his real life drama. One that had a fascination for nickels (known as the Nickel King to his family and close friends), enjoyed a stiff drink and a smoke after the show, boasted a plethora of pop culture knowledge and almost always had a joke to tell and a smile on his face.

When we opened Rehearsal for Murder in January of 2008, it was clear to anyone watching that Jerad was a veteran of the stage. He had appeared in over 30 productions including the part of Billy in Behold a Pale Bronco for which he was given an acting award by the American Association of Community Theaters. Jared’s family also had a long history in Fullerton, California, where his grandparents purchased their first home in 1947 on Fern Drive.

When Rehearsal for Murder closed, we urged our director to start a new project in which we could all be involved. It was our vision that he should direct Hamilton Deane’s adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Drucula. Jerad had coveted the role of R.M. Renfield – and we could think of no one else more fitted to play the role. Unfortunately we never had the opportunity to work together again.

My deepest condolences to Jerad’s family and close friends – I only had a glimpse into his short life, but I know he will be missed.

(Jerad Callen and Jamie Sowers in Rehearsal for Murder presented at the La Habra Depot)

Celebrate Jerad Memorial:
Monday December 13, 2010 at 1:00 p.m.
Craigs Regional Park, 3300 State College Blvd, Fullerton Ca.

Follow the signs to the Lake - Sports fields. We will be in Shelter 13 on a point overlooking the lake. Sandwich makings and beverages will be available.

This will not be a structure formal service. Come ...whenever you can and stay as long as you like. Come prepared with stories, songs, skits or whatever you wish to share memories, tears, and laughter. Let's CELEBRATE having had Jerad in our lives.