UPDATE Broadway League changed its mind after worst pr mistake in history. All Broadway houses will dim lights tonight for Joan Rivers.
EARLIER Tonight, 7 Broadway theaters will dim their lights for Joan Rivers. That’s five from the Jujamcyn chain, plus the New Amsterdam and the Helen Hayes.
But so far the Theater League, representing the Shuberts and the Nederlanders, have declined to join in. I am very disappointed, and we can only hope they change their minds. Charlotte St. Martin of the Theater League told the New York Times that Joan doesn’t meet the criteria for dimmed lights.
Ms. Martin sounds like she isn’t the brightest bulb in the chandelier of Broadway. She’s also tone deaf. Broadway box office is down, Ms. Martin. You need to create the most favorable environment for people to enjoy a very expensive New York experience.
Joan Rivers’ death touched a deep nerve She’s also a past Tony nominee, and received rave reviews when she appeared in Neil Simon’s “Broadway Bound.” Joan was also a tireless advocate of Broadway related causes. Clearly the League is tone deaf. It’s a big mistake. I hope it can be reversed before this evening.
