Celebration of Life: Howell Binkley

2021-05-07 13:53:38

Andrea Goodman

Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina

What a beautiful celebration of the life of a beautiful man! I am so sorry for the loss of your husband, father, brother and our friend. I was fortunate to work with Howell at the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis on Babes In Arms. What an inspiration he was. We confided in each other about family and he lifted my spirits daily. The words that you all spoke about him were wonderful to hear. I was glad to hear that he eventually found a relationship with his daughter...because he so often told me how much he loved her. I was happy to hear that he found sobriety...and that he realized that he didn't need any substances to be great at what he did. I'm so very happy that he found Joyce to spend the rest of his life with. Although I don't know you, I can tell that you were exactly what he needed and I'm so glad that he found such happiness. I left the theatre many years ago, so I did not know until yesterday (5/6/21) that Howell had passed. I'm so saddened that he will not be around to light up the world with his genuine spirit and positivity, but I'm certain that he looks down on all of us and guides us from above. My thoughts are with you all as we quickly come around to a 1 year anniversary of his passing. May God grant you all peace and may you feel his love for you everyday .

2020-11-03 09:41:18

Oliver Hynds

England

Howell was such an inspiration to me and his work inspired me to choose lighting design as my career. He will be missed.

2020-10-27 12:07:23

Chris Beck

Dix Hills, NY

Howell helped shape my career, I had been offered a Broadway show as Production Electrician and a job at ETC at virtually the same time. Howell was to be the Lighting Designer and I was leaning toward the show, he quit and my choice was made. I started at ETC the next week and took my career in an entirely different direction. I texted him a week or two before he passed and he was on the golf course, happy. Thanks, Howell!

2020-10-26 16:07:55

Howard Harrison

London, UK

With huge admiration.

2020-10-26 14:44:06

Mark Newman

Falls Church, VA

I did a story for LD+A magazine in the 90s on Howell's designs for "Whistle Down the Wind" in DC. After our phone interview, I had more questions so he invited over to his house (yes, house!) in the West Village where we talked and drank beer on his patio! In subsequent years I would run into him at theaters (most recently at Arlington's Signature) or at professional events and he was always the kindest, friendliest, warmest person. Great guy. He will be missed!

2020-10-25 21:43:16

Susan McIntyre

Morehead City NC

What a fabulous tribute to a wonderful man and friend. I watched through smiles and tears. Howell would love the fellowship idea. He was always so kind to the young people and kids in local theatre here in Carteret County. He always had time for them and they were star struck. When this pandemic is over I hope that the lights will go up again in our small theatre and if and when they do, it will be in no small part because of Howell Binkley.

2020-10-25 20:36:20

Kayla Gordon and Art Maister

Winnipeg

So sorry for your loss. We adored Howell. He was an amazing person with the most gentle spirit. Our heart goes out to Joyce and the family. May his memory be a blessing to you always. xo/Kayla and Art

2020-10-25 20:30:46

Donald Holder

Croton on Hudson, NY

Deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Howell, from a long-time friend and colleague

2020-10-25 20:26:44

Donald Holder

Croton on Hudson, NY

Deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Howell, from a long-time friend and colleague

2020-10-25 20:16:35

Steve Crick

Owings Mills, MD

2020-10-25 20:06:01

Juli Walker

Chicago

A wonderful and amazingly talented man. He is truly missed. Sending peace to all.

2020-10-25 20:03:42

Lisa And Walter Benton

Greenville, NC

2020-10-25 20:01:07

Kenneth Martin

Lancaster, PA

Sending all my love to you, Joyce.

2020-10-25 20:00:49

Mark Stanley

New York, New York

I am so grateful to have know Howell and been a friend and colleague. We will miss him is so many ways and our love and support goes to Joyce and his family.

2020-10-25 19:59:32

Dani Davis

Cape Cod, MA

I am sending my love and big Howell style smiles to all of you. It is impossible really that he has left us, and even more so that coming together in person to celebrate him and his legacy is also impossible. Nevertheless, know he is missed, he will continue to be missed, and we will keep him very much in our presence when we come back to our work in the theater. Howell has been so much a part of my creative life in this work. So much a part of the way I experience it. I am deeply proud to have known him, to have worked with him, to have called him my friend.

2020-10-25 19:46:55

Scott Wells

Greenville NC

2020-10-24 21:21:40

Julianne Peterson

seattle, wa

such a terrible loss.

2020-10-23 17:03:33

Susan McIntyre

Morehead City NC

Such a wonderful person. I miss his FB posts and his texts. I never see a beautiful sunset that I don't think of him. I bet the lighting in heaven is spectacular.

2020-10-14 12:09:07

Sandra Linnane

West Barnstable Massachusetts (Cape Cod)

No Words- Only Light........

2020-10-14 10:17:51

Jimmy Fedigan

Hopewell NY

Thank You Sir for being a Great Friend. I Loved Us. Keep Darren in line. I so look forward to seeing you both again. Joyce and Zoe anything, anytime.

2020-10-14 04:36:31

Gareth Owen

London

I learnt more from Howell than from any other creative. Not about sound design (by his own admission he wasn't very good at that), but about how to conduct myself in a room and how to be a good human being. I'll miss reading the papers by the pool in companionable silence, and quiet dinners in previously undiscovered restaurants. Others will follow but none will surpass.

2020-10-08 16:19:55

Richard Hamburger

New York City

As a theater director I worked with Howell on 3 shows, all at the Dallas Theater Center when I was Artistic Director there. Howell Binkley was a prince of a collaborator; adventurous, jazzy, fun, versatile, flexible, unpretentious and extraordinarily skilled. No one else I know of had his combination of spontaneity and discipline. and he carried on both the traditions of Tom Skelton and Jennifer Tipton in the unstuffiest ways. Everything about his lights was rhythmic and musical. He'd try anything, lived in the moment and was always a truly gentle person. He always spoke tenderly about his family and was as loyal & generous to his friends as anyone can ever be. He appreciated every single person who worked in a theater; electricians to Artistic Directors alike. A beautiful soul. I will miss Howell more than I can say.

2020-09-08 11:50:27

Liam Kinsella

Bayridge Brooklyn

RIP Friend

2020-08-30 18:48:08

Sylvia Yoshioka

Overton, NV and New York, NY

So sorry. I know you are missing Howell and his smile and his warmth. Sunsets art sea will always be for him.

2020-08-30 10:39:51

Deborah Vandergrift

Chicago, IL

He was a great, kind, brilliant man.

2020-08-26 14:17:46

Julie Porter

Brooklyn, NY

Joyce, you know I'm thinking about you a lot with big hugs and lots of love.

2020-08-26 13:27:53

Penny Daulton

New York, NY

Your kindness, humor and lighting genius will be missed. Rest in peace.

2020-08-25 18:30:16

Victoria Jarvis (Perry)

Saint John, NB

Joyce, I’m so sorry for you and your families loss! Although I never met Howell I can tell he was a great man and well loved! Hugs to you and your family!

2020-08-25 16:26:40

Monique Walker

West Orange, NJ

I met Howell in Seattle and he was a true gentleman and THE lighting designer of all lighting designers. His class and kindness will be missed.

2020-08-24 20:26:10

Justin Townsend

Montclair, NJ

Thank you Howell, for you kindness, generosity, joy, beautiful work, and leadership.

2020-08-24 15:41:28

Kathleen Swan

New York, NY

My heart is so full, being able to share in this beautiful, joyful service. Thank you for that extraordinary gift, and for being able to hear the wonderful tributes. Dear Joyce, I carry you in my prayers.

2020-08-24 13:13:40

Brenda Gorlick

Winnipeg, MB , Canada

My dear Joyce,
I would like to send my sincerest sympathies to you, Zoe and the rest of Howell’s loving posse. Altho’ I met your dear Howell on only a couple Of occasions, I know your bond was strong and will continue to be. Much love to you and may Howell’s memory be eternal! His light and love will continue to shine brightly!!

2020-08-23 23:20:23

Kevin Dreyer

South Bend, IN

Thank you for sharing this for those of us who could not be in North Carolina. Hal and I crossed and recrossed paths for close to fifty years starting at NCSA and Reynolds Auditorium and for the last time in Chicago at the Majestic. He was a good and generous friend; generous with praise, with respect, with friendship, encouragement, and always with joy and good humor. A vital soul who will stay with me for years to come. My prayers are with you all.

2020-08-23 21:51:02

George and Kathryn Doughart

36 Avondale Road Vernon River PEI, C0A 2E0

Dear Joyce,
When we learned of your loss our foremost thought was of the added hurt for you with the separation from family and friends on PEI at such a difficult time. As we watched the Memorial Service we were pleased to see the large numbers in attendance with you. What a fine tribute! So good to see Veda and Gordon with you.
The Service was very meaningful. You honoured your loved one in a thoughtful and appropriate way. The use of “Love Shells” was a novel idea and as we saw individuals place a love shell on Howell’s casket, it was evident that the action was very meaningful for most.
You crafted a beautiful tribute to your husband and you delivered it purposefully. Bless you!
Know that we care and we have been thinking of you since news of your loss was shared. We hope that in the days ahead you will have the active support of friends nearby and that you will also know and feel the love of those afar who also care.
In sympathy and friendship,

Kathryn and George

2020-08-23 20:11:46

Donna Mckenna

Charlottetown, pei

My sincere condolences to you and your daughter.

2020-08-23 18:39:19

Carol Love, MD

Penn Valley, PA

So glad Zoe got to know her dad. And so glad we got to meet him several times including her graduation lunch and at the house in North Carolina. He was a loving gracious and incredibly talented man and I am so proud to have known him.

2020-08-23 14:33:23

Zachary Borovay

Silver Spring, MD

Howell, you were there from the very start of my career, and always willing to try something different. We worked together many times, but I will always remember standing outside a tiny theater in New Jersey in the middle of winter and chatting. Peace and Light!

2020-08-23 12:50:57

Jenna Carino

San Diego

Just completely heartbroken over the loss of Howell Binkley. Howell, I am so very lucky to have known you and worked with you on some truly amazing shows where I got to witness the brilliance of your designs. Thank you for your art, your wisdom, your talent, and your love. Thank you for always telling me I looked fabulous every time we started tech, no matter how jet lagged I was, and for giving me peanut butter cups off your tech table. I will continue to show your lighting designs to my students, to make sure my upstage border on Come From Away is at the correct height, and I know I speak for everyone who has worked with you or had the pleasure of knowing you when I say that we will miss you so, so incredibly much. You will live forever in our hearts, and your work will live forever in Broadway history.

2020-08-23 11:23:02

Patricia Wilkins

Greenville NC

Rest In Peace .. prayers for family and friends..

2020-08-23 11:09:25

Karma Camp

Washington DC area

My heart was so heavy as the memorial service started - but I was lifted up by the beautiful tributes and stories about our twinkling eyed Howell. Working with him for 28 years has left me with some incredible memories. - I will cherish them always. Joyce, Zoe - and to all who loved Howell - may peace be found in these endless tributes - may they carry you through this difficult time. Whenever I see a stunning sunset I will remember my friend - kiss my fingers and raise them to the sky. Much love.

2020-08-23 09:21:35

Leigh

Florida

Rest In Peace ❤️

2020-08-22 15:02:31

David Arch

Brooklyn. NY

Dear Joyce and Zoe. I wish I could have been there in person to give my respects. Thinking of you both in the days that follow knowing what a hole he has left in everyone’s life. Live and Light. Miss you Sir. D

2020-08-22 11:17:50

Tyler Micoleau

Brooklyn, NY

Howell was one of the first lighting designers I assisted. He had just received his TONY nomination for KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, and I was very nervous at meeting him. Ha! He started immediately with practical jokes, even pretending to be me when introductions were made to the show photographer. Twenty-five years later he was giving me the most heartfelt congratulations on receiving my own TONY award. I'm so grateful for his antics, sincerity and enormous presence in the lighting community. Rest well Howell.

2020-08-22 10:05:14

Rick Turski

Charlotte, NC

Rest in peace, thank you for the lessons. Prayers with your family at this time

2020-08-22 04:43:23

Peter Marshall

London, England

Dear Joyce,
Sorry to learn of Howell's passing he was a fantastic Lighting Designer and friend ever since I first worked with him on "Kiss of the Spiderwoman" here in the West End in the mid-nineties and all those great shows since then. It was a pleasure to see you and Howell when you were over in our side of the pond during "Come From Away". I will always remember his big smile and southern charm and he will be sorely missed. all our thoughts are with you and the rest of your family at this difficult time, best wishes, Peter

2020-08-21 22:43:19

Matthew Benjamin

Dayton, OH

I did not know Howell well; only met him a small # of times at conferences, etc. That being said, I am a college professor and have had a couple of my graduates work with Howell on quite a few productions. They all were so incredibly complimentary of him as a mentor, a friend, and a passionate artist. I knew him well through his work, which never failed to stun me with its economy, its laser-sharp focus, and its beauty that always enhanced the inner meaning of the play, musical, or dance. Thank you, Howell, for providing so many of us with inspiration through your art, and I send condolences to Howell's family.

2020-08-21 21:36:58

Stan Pressner

NYC

My deepest condolences to Howell's family. Over 40 years, it was always joyous when we found ourselves together.

2020-08-21 17:54:21

Marcie Kay Kirkpatrick and Link Lauren

Dallas

Joyce and Zoe, what a touchingly beautiful service. It opened a floodgate of memories. I am so grateful that Howell was a part of my life and for the past 19years a part of my son's life. I learned so much and I am so sad that he is gone.
I have never known a more
gentle man. I can see him giving God that big smile and bear hug. Rest in peace, Howell.

2020-08-21 14:52:35

Jessica Morton

New York, NY

Howell, the mere mention of your name never ceases to make me smile as I think of the huge, welcoming smile that was always on your face. The world is better for having had you in it. Peace, love & light on your journey.

2020-08-21 14:30:47

Alma Malabanan-McGrath

Jersey City, NJ

We send our deepest, heartfelt condolences to Howell's family, theater family and dearest loved ones. He was a living legend with a talent and generosity that rose above the heads of giants in the field. It was an honor to be in his presence and he will be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Howell.

2020-08-21 13:30:58

Ruth Barnes

Atlantic Beach, NC

God be with you Joyce, Zoe and the entire family and friends. Bink will be greatly missed. RIP my sweet friend.

2020-08-21 12:13:18

Sherry Porter

Belmont, NC

RIP my friend❣️

2020-08-21 11:47:37

Caitlyn Thomson

New York NY

Howell is and was a true artist, a warm and caring father figure and mentor, and amazing fun to be around. He leaves behind an army of caring artists that he mentored and encouraged - the theatre, and the world, is a better place far having him in it. I was lucky to know him, and am lucky to have the opportunity to continue to work with the people that Howell brought up. We'll miss him.

2020-08-21 11:37:06

Elizabeth O’Gara

Bristol, Pa.

Thank you for your friendship! You will be missed by so many of us! Rest In Peace my Friend!

2020-08-21 10:31:40

Michael Farmer

Annapolis, MD

A great loss to our industry, a greater loss to his family and friends.

2020-08-21 10:12:32

Christine Causer

New Jersey

What a lovely man and amazing artist. Thanks for your inspiration and you light.

2020-08-21 08:10:09

Pete and Jacqui Donovan

NYC

Thanks for the love and light, Howell. We send our condolences to your loving family.

2020-08-21 07:45:49

fritz frizsell

brooklyn

My first followspot job in NYC was with The Acting Company, The Cradle Will Rock. I was front light for Howell on a number of Broadway shows. A joy, a genius, and a gentleman.

2020-08-21 04:47:37

John Hoey

Cairo, Egypt

Howell was who I wanted to be when I grew up.

2020-08-21 02:52:37

Judi parker

Champaign urbana, Illinois

‘So grateful to you for sharing this brilliant and lovely man .
I hope all of the love coming back to you will soften your pain, and bring you comfort.

2020-08-21 01:53:20

Barry McNabb

NYC

A true Artist and Gentleman- it was a privilege to have crossed your path.

2020-08-21 01:48:20

2020-08-21 00:27:41

Anne King

Emerald Isle

I was there but I need to listen to Zoe. Randy and Joyce again. Didn't catch it all once the tears began to flow.

2020-08-21 00:15:59

CHARLIE COOPER

Chicago , Illinois

I never met Howell outside of email , but saw
His work many times.
His work was that of a genius, and he will be sorely missed. Love to his friends and family

2020-08-21 00:02:07

Natalie Fleming

Los Angeles

Alum of In The Heights. Love and light to all missing you. We’ll look for that ray of light from up above letting us know you’re doing okay.

2020-08-20 23:38:25

Derek Healy

NYC

It was always a pleasure sir. Sending love to Joyce, Zoe, John and all of Howell’s family and friends.

2020-08-20 22:44:49

Mark & Paula Marseglia

Morrisville, PA

A light that shines as bright as Howell’s radiates infinitely and lasts forever because it touches so many other lives. That is the true gift of this wonderful man.

2020-08-20 22:38:51

Steve Shelley & Judy Schoenfeld

New York City

Our condolences to Hal's family.

2020-08-20 21:30:07

Mike Baden

Kerhonkson, NY

Such a sad day. My heart goes out to his family.
A man who I met when Jeff Turner sent me to help Howell back on the 80s on a show with the order to "listen to him and dont f**k up". We became fast friends.
The stages are darker today with the loss of his artistry.

2020-08-20 21:16:13

Liz Colley Johnson

Austin, TX

What a bright light! Joyce and family, our condolences. Love from an old Dayspringer.

2020-08-20 21:13:51

Tracy brigden

Fairfield CT

Many of the proudest moments of my directing and producing work were touched by Howell's incredible artistry. Many of the most cherished moments of my career were spent working and hanging out with him. I feel so lucky to have known such a remarkable, marvelous man. Rest in peace, dear Bink.

2020-08-20 20:59:08

Cynthia Gilardi-Reed

West Salem, Oregon

Your beautiful spirit was always loving light, creative, fun, and inspiring teacher, friend, forever your sincere smile and laughter will always be with me <3
Your words of comfort during difficult times forever lift me. You are missed <3

2020-08-20 20:56:27

Tony Tur

Miami FL

❤️

2020-08-20 20:53:53

2020-08-20 20:51:30

2020-08-20 20:36:58

Ian McClellan

Calgary, AB Canada

Howell’s work has always been an inspiration to me. I look up to him every day, and I’m so glad I’ve gotten the opportunity to talk to him on two occasions. You will be missed. Thank you for inspiring so many like myself.

2020-08-20 20:24:19

Joan Marcus

New Yor, NY

2020-08-20 20:16:23

Brian C Staton

Astoria, NY

2020-08-20 20:14:08

Scott Pinkney

Cape Cod, MA

From our very first meeting, to shows across W 44th Street from each other in 1982, to your unbounded generosity with my students, I have been, and continue to be honored to call you friend! Your talent was enormous, but your joyous spirit and kind heart rose above even that! My love and condolences to Joyce and your family! I will miss you, sir!! Until we meet again, my friend!

2020-08-20 20:01:22

Patricia ‘Tuck’ Tuckwiller

Atlanta, GA

It was a pleasure programming for you on Dreamgirls back in ‘01. You were an amazing designer, loved by many and will be missed be so many. RIP Howell Binkley

2020-08-20 19:58:56

Pamela Kolonia-James

St Augustine, Florida

He had that personality that left a lasting impression. Even if you knew him briefly or for years. Keep that smile glowing.

2020-08-20 19:50:55

Rachel Wilson

Cleveland, OH

I had the pleasure of working with Howell during the Anything Goes National Tour - it was wonderful to have the opportunity to watch him design, he was so kind and amazingly talented. Rest In Peace Howell, I am blessed to have met you - my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

2020-08-20 19:48:31

Beverly Jenkins

Greenwood Lake, NY

My sincere condolences go out to all of Howell's family, friends, and to all that had the honor of working with him. Rest In Peace, Howell.

2020-08-20 19:38:18

Mary Claire Simmons

Winston-Salem N.C.

Bless you all . My sincerest condolences to all of Howells family and friends he worked with.
Sending love to the family .
Mary Claire

2020-08-20 19:28:26

2020-08-20 19:25:27

Kate Ashton

Astoria, NY

You were an inspiration to us all. An absolute legend.
Sending much love to your family.

2020-08-20 19:20:16

Christian Specht

Birmingham, AL

Till we meet again!

2020-08-20 19:09:37

Bill Devins

Golden Valley, Minnesota

Wonderful send off to a great friend. Painting with Light is Hal's way. Flights of Angels, sweet Hal.

2020-08-20 19:04:26

Brandi Pick

San Francisco, CA

2020-08-20 18:55:41

Joyce Carter

Winston-Salem

Rest in peace, rise in power, and light the skies...

2020-08-20 18:55:01

Charles MacLeod

Denver Colorado

A Big Light Has Left Us here on Earth. Rest In Peace Mr. Binkley

2020-08-20 18:49:23

Diane Davis

Gander, NL

Deepest sympathies in your loss. This service was beautiful.

2020-08-20 18:33:39

Bob Bonniol

Seattle

How I loved working with Howell ! I will miss him tremendously. Love and peace to his family and loved ones...

2020-08-20 18:15:44

Cynthia Stillings

Kent, Ohio

2020-08-20 18:12:27

Jason Nerenberg

New york

My deepest condolences to the family and community at large, as he touched many lives

2020-08-20 17:50:17

Chris Kurtz

Croton on Hudson, NY

To the great Howell Binkley. Rest In Peace sir. It was an honor and joy to get to work with you. My deepest condolences to your family and countless friends around the world.

2020-08-20 17:48:39

Wendy Lewis

Cannon Falls, MN

I attended RJR high school with Howell and we were good friends. He was such a positive, friendly and supportive person—always. I remember skipping class to join him in the auditorium where he would play music through the system, like—Tubular Bells—and put on a light show for me. He knew, even then, what he wanted to do. That is crazy, but it's true. He was born for the job he clearly did so very well.

I have a young nephew in NYC working as producer with Dorrance Dance and when he found out I knew him, he was pretty excited. I'd made a plan, in future tense, to get back to NYC and schedule a dinner with Howell to introduce him to my nephew Chris. I'm sad that can't happen now. It would have been so satisfying to reconnect with Howell after too many years and witness him inspire yet another young artist working hard in the big city. He was always such an inspiration—full of joy and overflowing with the best slop of the cosmic soup.

He was born a good human and became a great artist. I now have nothing to do but send my faraway but all so memorable knowing of him into the place we all will eventually go. Love you, man. Fly well.

2020-08-20 17:19:42

Emily Bartell

San Diego

2020-08-20 17:04:43

Deborah Paul

Buchanan, NY

I met Howell In Sarasota Florida at The Asolo , I was a Stage Management Intern, My now late Husband Ronnie Paul Master Electrician. It was such an honor to work with him. To know him. To call him a friend. God Speed. Rest in Peace Howell...you will be sorely missed.

2020-08-20 16:51:36

Tim Rogers

New Jersey

My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and friends. A wonderful Soul that I was blessed to have meet. Love, Peace and Light my friend.

Howell Bagby Binkley

July 25, 1956 ~ August 14, 2020 (age 64)