Anne Pitoniak | Broadway actress, 85

Anne Pitoniak, 85, the Tony-nominated actress best known for her work in Marsha Norman's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama,

'night, Mother,

died Sunday.

Ms. Pitoniak died of complications from cancer at her Manhattan home, her son, Christian Milord, told the New York Times.

The actress, born in Westfield, Mass., appeared on television and in regional theater, most prominently at Actors Theatre of Louisville, Ky., before making her Broadway debut in 1983 in 'night, Mother. Norman's play tells the story of a despondent young woman, originally played by Kathy Bates, who is contemplating suicide. Ms. Pitoniak received a Tony nomination for her portrayal of the woman's disbelieving mother.

She was also nominated for a Tony for her role in the 1994 revival of Picnic. - AP