Bway Theatres to Dim Lights Tonight for Vincent Sardi, Jr.

Broadway theatres will dim their marquee lights tonight (Friday, January 5th at 8 p.m.) for one minute in the memory of the beloved restaurateur and unofficial "Mayor of Broadway," Vincent Sardi, Jr.

The world-famous Sardi's Restaurant on West 44th Street is decorated with the caricatures of hundreds of Broadway notables, past and present.

"Broadway is deeply saddened by the loss of Vincent Sardi, this iconic and beloved man of the theatre," commented Charlotte St. Martin, Executive Director of the League of American Theatres and Producers, Inc. "Vincent was a true New Yorker. For many decades Sardi's has been one of Broadway's favorite eateries, the site of many opening night parties and other community celebrations. Our city won't shine as brightly without him."

In 2004, Mr. Sardi received a Tony Honor for Excellence in Theatre. This honor was especially meaningful for him because, in 1947, the very first year of the Tony Awards, his father, Vincent Sardi, Sr. received a Special Tony Award for "providing a transient home and comfort station for theatre folk at Sardi's for 20 years."

A memorial service will be held at the Sardi's restaurant at a date yet to be determined.