December 7, 2022
The DGA mourns the passing of Stage Manager Mark Traub, an enthusiastic member and contributor to the Eastern AD/SM/PA Council from 1984-1996, serving as 2nd Vice Chair for one term. He also served as an alternate to the National Board for two terms (1991-93 and 2003-05) and a member of multiple Network Negotiating Committees. Mark joined the DGA in 1980 and was an active member for 42 years.
As a Stage Manager for Today for 35 years, Mark displayed professionalism, personal care and loyalty that resonated deeply with his collaborators on both sides of the camera. During his tenure, Mark witnessed and supported the changing landscape of morning television. Today went from two to three hours and finally four on his watch. He started with Studio 1A on the third floor of NBC headquarters and saw it evolve to the iconic street-level main set along with six additional sets. In the public tribute to Mark from NBC, Katie Couric recalled her friend as the “heart and soul” of Today. Mark will be deeply missed by his DGA colleagues, friends and family.