Theatres across UK to dim lights for Bill Kenwright

Theatres across the UK are to "come together" to commemorate the life and work of producer Bill Kenwright.

Venues all over Britain will mark Kenwright’s passing by "dimming their marquee lights, putting tributes to his career on their house screens, or washing their theatres in Everton blue, the football club to which he was proudly chairman".

The tribute, announced by sister organisations the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre, will take place at 7pm on October 26, to honour the man who produced more than 500 West End, Broadway, UK touring and international theatre productions, as well as films and music records.

SOLT president Eleanor Lloyd said: "Bill was a theatrical legend – a true impresario whose passion, spirit and enthusiasm had an immeasurable impact on the British theatre for 60 years.

"We are proud the whole industry can come together to pay tribute to his incredible career. He will be deeply missed across the theatre business and beyond.”

Jon Gilchrist and Stephanie Sirr, co-presidents of UK Theatre, added: "Bill was a titan of the touring theatre circuit. His commitment to regional theatre kept some really key industry establishments alive through tough times. He devoted much of his prolific career to productions around the UK and his extraordinary contribution to the sector will not be forgotten. All our condolences are with his loved ones.”