Robert Grindlinger '75

Robert Grindlinger earned his bachelor’s in acting and directing from Ithaca College in 1975. Less than one year later, Robert was married to college sweetheart Briony James '76 (nee Jacqueline Herrmann) and living in Los Angeles, launching what would become a fruitful career in theatre.

Robert was extremely active in several theatre companies in L.A. He worked with the Newbridge School Children's Theatre; Kelrik Productions, specializing in children's theatre productions and workshops; and was a major player at Knightsbridge Theatre Company, a branch of the National American Shakespeare Company. 

He was seen in many musicals and plays including: Little Shop of Horrors and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with Kelrik. He conducted children's workshops at Newbridge School. He appeared at Knightsbridge for King LearMuch Ado About NothingLysistrataOedipus RexThe Cherry OrchardPericlesMacbethEdward IIInto the Woods, and Arsenic and Old Lace. Robert also had a star turn two years running as Scrooge in A Christmas Carol

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Briony, and his sister, Gail Grindlinger Hughes. 

Hawaiian shirts blossom
bright as summer
unneeded
your clothes are memories
and shared smiles

c. Briony James 2015

I remember Rob as an entertaining, life of the party IC guy and an amazing make-up artist. It is no surprise that he and his wife Jackie thrived in CA for so many years. RIP, Rob.

Jim Glatthaar