West End Dims Lights in honour of Michael White

It has been announced that the West End will dim its lights this evening (9 March) in tribute to the late producer Michael White, who has passed away at the age of 80.

The tradition is performed as a mark of respect to theatre's most prestigious contributors, both in the field of performance as well as for those behind the scenes. At 7pm, for two minutes, audience members and industry professionals will recognise the celebrated producer while lights are dimmed across London's theatre district.

Glasgow-born White, who was has been described as the "the most famous person you have never heard of", was the recipient of 2014’s Special Award at the Olivier Awards and produced more than 100 shows during a career that spanned more than 50 years across theatre, film and television. His theatre production credits include the West End premieres of 'The Rocky Horror Show', 'Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' and 'A Chorus Line'.

Tributes have been pouring in on social media today since the announcement of White's death was made, including the following on Twitter:

'R.I.P. Michael White, Producer of Holy Grail. Rocky Horror, Pass The Butler etc. Chalky was one of a kind and will be missed.'
- Eric Idle, member of Monty Python.

'So sad to hear that theatre producer Michael White has died. Spent many great evenings with him. A real West End character leaves the stage'
- Gary Kemp, actor and singer and songwriter.

'So sad - great producer Michael White has died. A remarkable man. Great @gracieotto doc on him last year'
- Ed Vaizey, Minister of State for Culture and the Digital Economy.

'Sir George Martin and Michael White gone. Both "Producers" in different fields. Both excelled and influenced us all. RIP gentlemen.'
- Michael Ball OBE, actor, singer, broadcaster. [It had been reported ealier in the day that Sir George Martin, The Beatles producer, had also passed away, at the age of 90.