Bradshaw Smith 1954-2012

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By NiteLifeExchange

Video producer Bradshaw Smith, a fixture at theatrical events with his cable TV program "Broadway Beat," died on January 16, following a sudden and severe stroke. He was 57 and lived in Manhattan and Cherry Grove, Fire Island.

Bradshaw Smith was born George Bradshaw Smith in Derby, CT, on April 14, 1954. He moved to New York in the mid-'70s, and launched a career as a cabaret performer, starring in a long-running Cole Porter revue at Don’t Tell Mama. He won a Back Stage Bistro in 1985, and was the first recipient of the MAC Award for Best Male Vocalist in 1987. He then made the transition to journalism, receiving a special MAC Award in 1990, for his cable television show “Cabaret Beat.”

In 1991, in collaboration with Richard Ridge, Smith created “Broadway Beat,” and for more than 20 years, the first cable TV program devoted exclusively to theatre, covered rehearsals, performances, opening nights, benefits and award shows, both on and off Broadway. With host/interviewer Ridge, he was a fixture on Broadway's red carpet. Founded as "Cabaret Beat" in 1985, the show evolved into "Broadway Beat," and was self-described as "the first cable television program devoted exclusively to celebrating the theatre."

The table manned by Smith and his "Broadway Beat" colleagues at the annual Broadway Flea Market has been a top "earner," last year coming in fourth of the top ten tables with a grand total of $10,580. His business, Applause Video, was one of BC/EFA’s first longtime major donors.

Bradshaw is survived by his brother, Robert Smith. His longtime companion, John Scoullar, died in March 2011. Funeral services are private with a memorial to follow. Donations in Bradshaw Smith’s name may be made to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.