2006
Joan Orenstein (1923-2009) was revered for her passionate, engaging, electric performances on stage and screen. In her own words, she worked to portray “strong women who have battled against the elements.”
Born in England, Joan was a lifelong political activist. During the war, she met and married her husband of 63 years, artist Henry Orenstein, with whom she would have 6 children.
Joan came to acting later in life, in her 40s, but had a prolific career. Settling in Halifax, she began writing for CBC Radio and T.V. Her first stage work was with the Nova Scotia Drama League and their historic production of The Highland Heart in Nova Scotia. Later at Neptune Theatre, she worked with director John Wood, who would ask her to join the lauded N.A.C. English Theatre Company, which launched her national career. Joan’s voice work in animation and radio drama was extensive and her singing voice was legendary.
With theatre credits too numerous to list, some iconic roles include Mother Courage, Juno and the Paycock, La Sagouine, Stone Angel, Mrs. Warren’s Profession, Mrs. Klein, Blood Relations, Angels in America, Peer Gynt, Ghosts, and Emily Carr. Selected film credits include The Hanging Garden, The Event, The Judge, Hunger Point, and Charlie Grant’s War.
