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At A Glance: Ranny Williams

He was a master of the most difficult theatre art, comedy. A dramatist and folklorist, Maas Ran evolved as one of Jamaica's foremost cultural exponents. Renowned in other areas as a broadcaster and playwright, Maas Ran remains a model of excellence in communicating the passion for his work and his indomitable spirit. On October 21, 2012 the Little Theatre Movement (LTM), producers of the annual LTM National Pantomime,marked the centenary of his birth. Here is a look at the man and his work.

Ranny Williams

Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
Maas Ran', as he was popularly known, was born October 26, 1912 in Panama. He was brought to Jamaica at an early age and after schooling, began a career in entertainment, which lasted well over three decades. In this 1968 Gleaner photograph, Ranny Williams, popular comedian, dances to reggae music.
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
He was one of the early members of a troupe of performers who became followers of nationalist Marcus Mosiah Garvey, who operated a cultural centre on Slipe Road, below Cross Roads, in Kingston. In this photo: Ranny Williams, a member of the "Music Boy" cast, greets Miss Jamaica-Canada, Movita Green, and Miss Jamaica-U.S.A., Francine Wallace at the Pantomime.
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
In 1942, Williams became a member of the ensemble performing in the LTM Pantomime. He was one of the first persons of colour to be admitted to the cast. In this photo: Williams appears as Host of the Garter Inn in "The Merry Wives of Windsor", the 1973 LTM's Sumner Shakespeare production.
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
He partnered Louise Bennett (left) in performing and scripting several of the productions. He wrote two Pantomimes on his own and collaborated in creating several others. He performed in 29 of the annual shows, his last being The Hon All Purpus and the Dancing Princesses in 1979.
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
In between all of that he became one of the pioneers of radio drama and comedy, partnering with Alma Hylton (Morgie and Putus) and Louise Bennett (The Lou and Ranny Show). In this photo: Louise Bennett (Miss Corpie) and Ranny Williams (Bredda Soul) in conference at the LTM National Pantomime "Moonshine Anancy”.
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
Williams was involved in other areas of the arts, especially in keeping alive the tradition of Jonkunno. He founded the Ranny Williams Youth Club and recorded some of the songs which he created. In this photo: TUG O' WAR in the play "The Rose Slip" produced by The National Theatre Trust.
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
In the summer of 1980, he went to Canada. He had been suffering from diabetes, which resulted in the amputation of a foot some time earlier. Despite that, he continued with his work onstage. In this photo: Williams performs as the ‘Bottom the Weaver’ in the LTM production by Paul Methuen of Shakespeare's comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream".
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
He fell ill while in Toronto, was taken to hospital where he died. In this photo: Ranny Williams as Petruchio and Leonie Forbes-Amiel as Katharine in one of the scenes from the "Taming of the Shrew".
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Randolph 'Ranny' Williams
He received many honours and awards in his lifetime, including the Order of Distinction (Commander Class). The entertainment centre on grounds adjoining Jamaica House was also named in his honour. In this photo: Williams (at right) receives a silver Musgrave medal for outstanding achievements and success in promoting literature, science or art in the West Indies.
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Gleaner Library
All of these photos and more are available for purchase at the Gleaner Library at 7 North Street, Kingston. Tel: (876) 922-3400 ext 6309. Email:library@gleanerjm.com
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