Posted by Cathy Gowdy on Friday, June 23, 2006 at 14:34:29 :
Marin Independent Journal
Thursday, July 1, 1993
Section B, page 2
Columbia R. Menkin
Artist, actress, director
Columbia Riland Menkin, known as Chris, died at her San Rafael home late Tuesday, June 29, 1993. She was 77.
Mrs. Menkin was born in Baltimore. She lived in Marin 30 years.
In 1939, she was the top diver in a high-diving exhibition at the World’s Fair in New York. Her performance caught the eye of Lawrence Menkin, who married her shortly thereafter. The couple was married 52 years.
Mrs. Menkin and her husband operated the Menkin Acting and Comedy Workshop for many years, first in San Francisco and then in San Rafael. Among their students were Michael Pritchard, Will Durst and Dana Carvey.
They taught hundreds of students and often found both agents and jobs for them.
They also appeared in small parts in several Francis Ford Coppola film; in television series on location in the Bay Area; and in national TV advertisements.
Mrs. Menkin was television director-producer of “Hands of Mystery” and “Mono Drama Theater.” She directed “Harlem Detectives,” the first television show featuring black actors and actresses.
From 1949 to 1955 she was active in New York City; then the family moved to Hollywood.
She also wrote and illustrated children’s books.
She also was an artist. She enjoyed doing batik, oil painting and sculpture.
Her sons remember her befriending and supporting many young people. She also had a keen sense of humor and was an excellent cook.
Besides her husband, Mrs. Menkin is survived by three sons, Christopher Menkin of Los Gatos, Michael Menkin of Seattle and Peter Menkin of San Rafael; a sister, Florence Beam of Baltimore; and three grandchildren.
A memorial service is being planned.
Donations are requested to Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Ave., Corte Madera 94925.
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