Broadway will dim the lights for Diahann Carroll

This Wednesday night, Broadway will dim the lights for one minute at 7:45 pm, in honor of actress Diahann Carroll who passed away at age 84 on October 4, it was announced this afternoon. American Airlines, Broadhurst, Helen Hayes, Hudson, Marquis, New Amsterdam, Samuel J. Friedman, St. James, and Vivian Beaumont theatres in New York will participate in the honor of Carroll's memory.

“Much has been made of Ms. Carroll’s groundbreaking role shattering racial barriers in film and on Broadway,” said Thomas Schumacher, chairman of The Broadway League, in a statement. “That she was a pioneer is undeniable. But she was first and foremost a gifted, Tony-winning actress of enormous warmth and charm. She made just three visits to Broadway—in two musicals and a turbulent drama—but the breadth of those roles is a measure of her range and craft.”

Carroll appeared on Broadway three times in her 65 year career: Agnes of God (1982), No Strings (1962), for which she won a Tony Award, and House of Flowers (1954). She also starred as Norma Desmond in the Toronto production of 'Sunset Boulevard'.

As they should, on the basis of talent as well as her historial importance.

Although they took their time, I'm glad the decision was made to honor Carroll in this way. Her achievement, artistry and her role as a trailblazer all warrant this honor.