Theatrical Video Producer Bradshaw Smith Dies at Age 57

Video producer Bradshaw Smith, a fixture at theatrical events in collaboration with reporter/producer Richard Ridge, died on January 16 after suffering a sudden stroke. He was 57 and lived in Manhattan and Cherry Grove, Fire Island.

Born on April 14, 1954, in Derby Connecticut, Smith arrived in New York in the mid-70s and launched a career as a cabaret performer, notably starring in a long-running Cole Porter revue at Don’t Tell Mama. His cabaret awards include a Backstage Bistro in 1985 and the first MAC Award for Best Male Vocalist in 1987. Smith then made the transition to journalism, receiving a special MAC award in 1990 for his cable television show Cabaret Beat.

In collaboration with Ridge, Smith created Broadway Beat, the first cable TV program devoted exclusively to theater. For more than 20 years, they covered rehearsals, performances, opening nights, benefits and awards shows on and off Broadway, as well as for cabaret.

Smith is survived by his brother, Robert Smith, and was predeceased by his partner, John Scoullar. Funeral services will be private, with a memorial to follow. Donations in his name may be made to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.