The Times Online is reporting that famed theatrical producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh is investing millions in an unprecedented move to assure that each of his seven London-based theatres will remain open and continue to stage musicals and plays, even after his death.
According to his friends and collaborators, Mackintosh regards his theatres as "his children". The Times article quotes one friend who says, "Cameron cares for his theatres just like a worrying parent. He is always popping into them to ensure they are okay."
Mackintosh is known for investing in his playhouses; he has spent millions in renovation and introduced a renovation levy of £1 on all tickets. Thelma Holt, a West End producer is also quoted in the Times Online as saying that Mackintosh sh is "simply the most generous of givers, who loves theatres and the arts. They are his life".
Mackintosh's playhouses are currently housing some of the biggest theatrical hits, including Mamma Mia! playing at the Prince of Wales, Prince of Wales, Les Misérables playing at the Queen's, Enron at the Noel Coward Theatre, and Jersey Boys currently on stage at the Prince Edward.
To read the rest of the story in the UK's Times Online, please click here.
Cameron Mackintosh has produced some of the biggest theatrical hits in the West End and on the Broadway stage. His shows include 'Mary Poppins', 'Les Miserables', 'Avenue Q', 'Sunday in the Park with George', 'My Fair Lady', 'Oklahoma', 'The Witches of Eastwick', 'Putting it Together', 'Martin Guerre', 'Oliver!', 'Miss Saigon', 'The Phantom of the Opera', 'Cats' and 'Five Guys Named Moe'. He has also produced touring productions of many of his shows.
