B'way to salute Newman by dimming lights

NEW YORK, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- New York's Broadway community reportedly will pay its respects to late stage and screen icon Paul Newman by dimming the lights on the Great White Way.

Newman died last week at the age of 83.

He made his Broadway debut in 1953 in the original New York production of "Picnic" and returned numerous times to appear in plays such as "Sweet Bird of Youth," "The Desperate Hours" and "Baby Want a Kiss." His final Broadway performance was in the 2003 revival of "Our Town," for which he earned a Tony Award nomination for his portrayal of the stage manager.

Variety.com said the lights will go out on Broadway at 8 p.m. Friday for 1 minute as a means of saluting Newman and recognizing his artistic contributions.

"For over half a century Paul Newman has graced our stages and inspired our souls with his brilliant talent," Broadway League executive director Charlotte St. Martin told the entertainment industry trade newspaper. "His presence everywhere will be missed."