Focus on Tom Kochie: A Remembrance

Our hearts are heavy with the news that longtime friend and collaborator Tom Kochie has passed. Tom was one of the most gifted photographers around, and most prolific. He photographed countless events here in the Hamptons, art openings, galas and many area MainStage shows including three of our botgt productions. He was the “go-to” photog across Long Island’s East End for years. His sense of artistry and style was second to none. He knew exactly how to capture the moment with beauty and precision… and his quirky sense of humor. Tom was soft spoken and gentle, but he had an intensity that burned through his lens. I’ve known both Tom and his wife Pat for well over a decade. Safe to say they were a part of the fabric of my life and many others here on Long Island. Pat is herself a wonderful artist and a true survivor. I’ve always referred to her as one of my favorite “Shield Maidens” borrowing from my family’s Nordic ancestry… those Viking women who took their place in battle with strength and courage, and who, like their male warriors, never gave up. That’s Pat. She never gave up on Tom throughout the last months of his life. She fought with him by his side, everyday. And their many friends were with them in spirit. We kept track of her messages and updates, collectively praying for them both. We all held onto hope that he might recover. 

It’s still hard to believe. Tom was one of a kind. Always there when you needed him, with a flash and a smile. Plus you knew that when Tom liked what he was photographing you really had something special happening. We’ll miss his talent and unique perspective. We send our condolences and prayers to Pat and family.

We leave you with a slideshow (see below) of a few of his iconic photographs from botgt’s THE MIRACLE WORKER… THE AGITATORS…and CHEMICAL IMBALANCE: A JEKYLL & HYDE PLAY. 

Tom Kochie. RIP.