…we always did…
Robin worked at the Trident Restaurant in Sausalito, California from 1973 to 1976.
Robin was the first person I met in 1974 when I was hired to work there. He trained me as a busboy. In 1976 the Trident closed for repairs, and we went out looking for work. On our second day out we were interviewed together (only job interview I’ve had with another person?), and we were both hired to work at the Sausalito Food Company restaurant.
In 1976 Robin entered the first San Francisco Comedy Competition and came in second to Bill Farley, and Bob Sarlatte came in third. Here is the link to the Bay Area Magazine’s Robin remembrance: (Click) BAM Robin Remembrance
In 1977, while we were working at the Sausalito Food Company, Robin joined an improvisation group that was performing nightly for two weeks at Gatsby’s Bar on Caldonia Street in Sausalito. Every night he was absolutely amazing and Robin clearly stood out from the rest of the performers. The second week there someone from the Richard Pryor Show on NBC was sitting at the bar.
A few weeks later Robin was introduced on the Richard Pryor Show as one of the show’s new writers? Shortly thereafter he would become a regular performer on NBC’s Richard Pryor Show. There’s information online that would suggest Robin had already met Richard Pryor at the Comedy Store in Los Angeles? While working at the Food Company he made more than a few trips to LA.
It appears Robin may have been discovered at Gatsby’s in Sausalito in 1977. From budding San Francisco comedy talent to writer and performer on NBC television. And, from there…
Illustration by Hilary Slaughter 2014
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Shocked and saddened by Robin's death. I met him before he became famous, when we both worked at the Trident - he in the front of the house, I in the back. Although the kitchen and the front of the house were like two different worlds, we would often share a smile and a hello. The last time I saw him was at Lynn and Linda's farewell off-to-Julliard party. I wished him well then, as I do now. I hope he is enjoying the peace that eluded him in his final days.
I too worked with him at The Trident, nicest guy...definitely will be missed!!!!
Hi Josie,
Remember you well, and got your Trident Babes photo that may find it's way onto this site. Ed Gutekunst and I wrote a movie treatent of sorts, and curiously one of the characters is named after you. It helped write the part. If the movie ever gets made, we'll have to get permission to use your first name from you. Peace, love, and happiness! All the best,
Mark
I was working for Frank Werber at the Trident as his personal manager during 1965 and after. I also photographed his groups he managed with Trident Productions and he even gave me a backstage pass to the Beatles concert at the Cow Palace. Robin worked there after I was there as I moved to LA to live in the Castle and that is where I photographed Bob Dylan. Those photos can now be seen in the Bob Dylan Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma . Robin was such an incredible actor comedian and I am so sorry he left us so soon. I have a good collection of him at various concerts he was at. The Trident was my favorite place to hang out and listen to good music. I also sailed on the Vivid off the deck many times. I also can share that I introduced Frank Werber to Brazil '65 and they actually got a good name for themselves after playing there several times. Loved the Trident and still do. Lisa Law
Hi Lisa,
If you'd like your comment would make a great post. Even better if you had any photos of yourself, the Trident, and any stories you'd like to share.
All the best,
Mark (Trident 73-76)
MDLomas@gmail.com