was a playwright, actor, director and designer. Ludlam was best known for founding The Ridiculous Theatrical Company in 1967, which was legendary for mixing theatrical tradition with the avant-garde. He worked as the company’s writer and director up until his death in 1987. He received six Obie Awards, one of which was for ensemble performances in The Mystery of Irma Vep, and the Rosamund Gilder Award. He was also the winner of a Drama Desk award for The Mystery of Irma Vep. A prolific writer, his most noted works include Camille (1973), Der Ring Gott Farblonjet (an adaptation of The Ring Cycle) and Artificial Jungle (1986). He was also acclaimed for his portrayal of the title role in the 1984 American Ibsen Theater Production of Hedda Gabler.