Hats off to Howie: The Australian theatre industry pays respect to one of the greats

In a moving show of respect from the Australian theatre industry, major musicals across the country will dedicate performances this weekend to the memory of the late publicity queen, Suzie Howie.

After a career covering 30 years and more than 600 productions, Howie lost her 7 year battle with cancer on Thursday. Ever the professional, she recently penned her final press release which was distributed by her solicitor.

It concluded with:

“Please note – that after 30 years of media calls, press conferences, before and after drinks and all those opening night parties — enough is enough. There will be NO funeral, and certainly no memorial. I am very happy to just float away when called. Thank you everyone – and enjoy life. I have.”

Howie’s last show was the revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, which is opening tonight in Melbourne. She worked on the publicity for FORUM until just two weeks ago and producer John Frost will address the audience after the performance, honouring Suzie and her work.

A Chorus Line paid tribute to Howie in Perth last night, and the casts and crews of South Pacific and Legally Blonde will also be dipping their hats to Howie this evening. Cast members Lucy Durack and John O’May will both give short speeches at the conclusion of each performance in Suzie’s honour, uniting the theatrical community across the country with love and respect for one of the great figures in showbiz.