02/06/2020
“Kirk Douglas passed away earlier today at the grand old age of 103. He lived a spectacular life, and he and his wife, Anne, have been significant supporters of Center Theatre Group through many decades. Kirk was a star in every possible way—in his art and acting, his love of family and country, and in his tremendous philanthropy. Kirk always said that theatre was his first love, and you could see that in his eyes as he sat front and center on so many opening nights.
Kirk and Anne’s generosity has helped to ensure that we at Center Theatre Group remain an indispensable part of Los Angeles, and that the theatre that bears his name will stay at the forefront of our efforts to push for new work, new artists, and new audiences.
As the world mourns the loss of Kirk Douglas, we are especially going to miss him in the audience and in our lives here at Center Theatre Group. Tonight we will borrow a long-standing Broadway tradition and dim the lights on the marquee of the Kirk Douglas Theatre at 7:50pm. It is a small but meaningful recognition of a man who brightened so many lives and made this theatre possible.” —Michael Ritchie, Center Theatre Group’s Artistic Director
