Lotus Weinstock

Marlene Weinstock, (January 29, 1943 – August 31, 1997) commonly known by her stage name Lotus Weinstock, was an American stand-up comedian, author, musician and actress. Early life Weinstock was born in 1943 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her parents were Robert and Lucille Weinstock. She was a natural performer throughout her childhood and into high school as she was known to improvise bits with friends and play the role of the mascot on her cheerleading team. Though she was considered to be a great performer, she often felt like an outcast growing up. After high school, Weinstock went to Emerson College but dropped out to move to New York and try acting and dance, succeeding in acquiring a few Off-Broadway roles. Around 1963 she became a hostess at the oldest rock and roll club in NYC, Greenwich Village's Bitter End. Career Singing and writing Weinstock was a stand-up comedian, author, playwright, and musician. Her book, The Lotus Position, is filled with some of her famous jokes like, "I married Mr. Right. Mr. Always Right." Some of these jokes also made it onto greeting cards. The Lotus Position sold about 63,000 copies. Weinstock also wrote the play, "Molly and Maze" that she put on with her daughter, Lili Haydn a few times. Weinstock and Haydn also performed music together. Weinstock also performed in a musical comedy duo, "The Turtles", with Jimmy Gavin. Together, they toured the folk scene circuit. Early in her career, she changed her name to Maurey Haydn. Under this name, one of her songs was recorded by Richie Havens.