The Broadway League has announced that it will no longer oversee the dimming of marquee lights in tribute to late members of the Broadway community. This shift in protocol comes after significant public scrutiny and controversy surrounding recent light dimming decisions.
Traditionally, the marquee dimming is a public gesture to honor the legacies of influential figures in the theatre world. Last month, the Broadway League faced backlash when it initially stated that only select theatres would dim their lights for Tony Award winner Gavin Creel and actor Adrian Bailey. Following public outcry and a petition, the League reversed its decision, ensuring that all Theatre District marquees participated. Bailey’s tribute took place on October 17, and Creel’s is scheduled for December 3.
The responsibility for announcing and organizing these memorial dimmings now transitions to the newly formed Broadway Theatre Owners Committee. This committee includes representatives from major Broadway landlords such as Nederlander, Shubert, ATG Entertainment, Disney, Lincoln Center Theater, Manhattan Theatre Club, Roundabout Theatre Company, Second Stage Theatre, and Circle in the Square.
While the Broadway Theatre Owners Committee is new in its public role, it formalizes a process that has historically been managed privately by theatre owners. Previously, the Broadway League handled the public communication aspect of these tributes, but moving forward, announcements will be made by an external press representative on behalf of the Committee.
The process for memorial light dimmings remains unchanged. The Committee will select dates to honor the passing of notable theatre figures, with marquees dimming for one minute before evening performances. This long-standing tradition, which began in the early 20th century, symbolizes the profound impact of the honoree on the world of theatre and serves as a moment for reflection for both theatre professionals and audiences alike.
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