Philip Seymour Hoffman’s theatre company launches fundraiser

An online fundraising campaign has been set up in memory of tragic actor Philip Seymour Hoffman to raise money for his New York theatre company. The Capote actor joined the Labyrinth Theater Company in 1995 and served as its artistic director for several years while also directing and starring in several of its productions. His estranged girlfriend Mimi O’Donnell is the company’s current artistic director.
A Crowdrise.com page has now been launched for Labyrinth, with the support of actor Edward Norton, asking for donations to help the company Hoffman loved.
A statement posted on the page reads, “Alongside his celebrated work as an actor, Phil helped build NY’s (New York) Labyrinth Theater Company from its inception into one of the top theatre groups in America. Some of the brightest and most original new talents of the last 20 years found their own success because of Phil’s steadfast effort and deep commitment to this non-profit theatre. All donations made here by admirers or friends will go to support the Labyrinth in celebration of Phil’s great talent, his enormous contributions and his spirit.”
As of Thursday (06Feb14), the campaign had raised more than $15,000 (£9,375).
Members of the company gathered outside the theatre on Wednesday night (05Feb14) to hold a candlelight vigil for the actor and Broadway venues dimmed their lights for a minute later in the evening as a mark of respect for Hoffman.
Among the crowd of roughly 200 at the vigil was actor, playwright and Labyrinth member Eric Bogosian, who said, “I think it is important to note not only Phil’s power as a great, great talent but as a person as well.”
Hoffman was found dead at his New York apartment on Sunday (02Feb14) following a suspected drug overdose. An autopsy proved inconclusive and further toxicology tests are to be carried out.