All 41 Broadway theatres will dim their lights for one minute at 6:45 PM ET on September 9 in memory of recently passed members of the Broadway community. This marks the second event in a new quarterly series of group dimming ceremonies. This evening, the tribute honors George Wendt, Beth Newburger, Edie Cowan, Mark Brokaw, Paul Libin, Richard Greenberg, Cleo Laine, Jack Batman, and Lloyd Williams.
Previously, this distinction—considered one of the most prestigious Broadway honors—was reserved for select individuals. The tradition, originally organized by the Broadway League across theatre owners and operators, was transferred earlier this year to the newly formed Broadway In Memoriam Committee. The move, along with the adoption of quarterly group ceremonies, responded to criticism over inconsistent or missing individual dimming tributes. Notably, Gavin Creel, Hinton Battle, and Adrian Bailey were later granted full solo dimming ceremonies following public outcry.
Industry members may nominate individuals for future ceremonies at BroadwayMarqueeInMemoriam.org. Submissions must include the nominee’s name, birth and death year, a description of their Broadway contributions, and a digital photograph.
Group tributes do not eliminate the possibility of individual ceremonies. The Broadway In Memoriam Committee may still grant a solo dimming for those deemed to have had a “profoundly significant and lasting impact on Broadway.” Individual theatre owners may also organize tributes at their own venues.
Producer and philanthropist Paul Libin will receive this top distinction with a solo dimming ceremony at all Broadway theatres, with the date to be announced.
