Wed. June 19, 2013
Chicago, IL -
In keeping with a long Broadway tradition, Broadway In Chicago will dim the marquee lights at its four theatres in downtown Chicago Wednesday night in honor of prolific Chicago producer Bernard "Bernie" Sahlins.
Remembered as a true champion and icon for the Chicago theatre community, Sahlins passed away Sunday, June 16 at his Chicago home. He was 90 years old.
"Broadway In Chicago wanted to dim the marquee lights to provide Chicago with an appropriate moment to reflect on Bernie Sahlins' lifetime in the theatre," Lou Raizin, President of Broadway In Chicago told ChicagoPride.com. "Bernie Sahlins was a Chicago Treasure who contributed volumes to Chicago Theatre Artists for decades and will be greatly missed."
The marquees of Bank of America Theatre, 18 W. Monroe; Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph; Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut; and Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, will dim tonight at 8:45 p.m. in honor of the Chicago theatre legend.
An important figure in American comedy, Sahlins co-founded The Second City in 1959, along with Howard Alk and Paul Sills. Sahlins had an eye for talent and is credited with mentoring John Belushi, John Candy, Gilda Radner and Bill Murray.
"Bernie Sahlins made no small plans and his legacy will be felt for generations to come" said Andrew Alexander, CEO/Managing Partner of The Second City.
Sahlins was born in Chicago and studied at the University of Chicago before he turned to theatre. He was the co-founder of The Playwrights Theatre Club, The University of Chicago's Off-Off Campus, the International Theatre Festival of Chicago and the Lithuanian International Theatre.
Bernard "Bernie" Sahlins will be remembered as a 'Chicago Treasure' who helped establish Chicago as a vibrant comedy town.
Written by: Danny Bernardo (ChicagoPride.com Backstage Pass)
Related: Broadway In Chicago honors Chicago theatre legend Bernie Sahlins
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