The late Gavin Creel was honored for his artistic brilliance and advocacy work during a touching memorial service on Monday.
The event at St. James Theatre on Broadway, attended by members of the close theater community in New York City, was a moving gathering filled with touching music and cherished reminiscences.
During the service, Creel's memorable performance as a conceited prince in the revival of "Into the Woods" in 2022 was remembered. Critics praised his comedic brilliance, showing off his talent and leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
According to Variety, Creel's sister, Heather, said, "Tonight is going to be both joyful and there's going to be some sorrow."
"It's going to have both tears and laughter, and it's going to have excitement and quiet."
Throughout the nearly two-hour service, a blend of humor and heartbreak filled the room, sprinkled with moments of starry-eyed wonder and profound sorrow.
Creel, who had valiantly fought a fierce battle with cancer, was also remembered by his partner, Alex Temple Ward and honored by his co-stars Sara Bareilles and Celia Keenan-Bolger.
Amid everything, stories circulated regarding Creel's fondness for technology, fixation on animated movies from Pixar, talent for crafting pancakes, spontaneous decisions to adopt dogs, instances of flatulence during performances, and his remarkable reach and powerful singing voice.
The event featured captivating performances by Broadway stars, including Kelli O'Hara, Phillipa Soo, and Joshua Henry. They featured heartfelt renditions of classic songs like "How Glory Goes," "Sunday," and "Children Will Listen," which held a deep personal meaning for the late stage actor.
The event ended with an enthusiastic performance of "Let the Sunshine In," a song that Creel performed during his role in the 2009 revival of "Hair."
On Monday afternoon, the St. James Theatre's LED marquee proudly displayed a cheerful image of Creel, drawing in a crowd that snaked down West 44th Street and spilt over onto 7th Avenue by 3:15.
On Tuesday, Broadway theaters will dim their lights to honor Creel on Tuesday, December 3, in addition to the memorial service held in his memory.
Initially, there was intense backlash and a petition with 20,000 signatures when it was revealed that only specific venues would participate in this tribute to Creel. However, after facing pressure, the Broadway League eventually declared that all theatres would dim their marquees in honor of Creel.
