Broadway lights dimmed in memory of Natasha

New York (ANI): Broadway paid tribute to Hollywood actress Natasha Richardson, who died after a skiing accident, by dimming lights. The actress, who hailed from a very dignified family of Hollywood, had contributed immensely to both Broadway theatre and multifarious acclaimed film projects.

"The Broadway community is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our finest young actresses. Her theatrical lineage is legendary, but her own singular talent shined memorably on any stage she appeared," the New York Daily News quoted Charlotte St Martin, executive director of The Broadway League.

Many others from Hollywood also remembered the Tony award-winning actress for her sweet nature and incredible talent. "Natasha combined the best of Redgrave and Richardson: the enormous depth and emotional force of a great actor on the one hand, and the intelligence and objectivity of a great director on the other. She was one of a kind, a magnificent actress," director Sam Mendes said.

"She was also an amazing mother, a loyal friend, and the greatest and most generous host you could ever hope to meet. It defies belief that this gifted, brave, tenacious, wonderful woman is gone," he added.

Actress Dame Judi Dench said: “She had an incredibly luminous quality and a great sense of humour. It's just so shocking." Filmmaker Ken Russell, also remembered the talented actress by stating: “She was as smart as she was pretty and as gentle as she was fierce. I loved her unashamedly."

Jane Fonda, a friend of Natasha's mother Vanessa Redgrave, recalled meeting a young Richardson on the set of their 1977 film, Julia. "She was a little girl but already beautiful and graceful. It didn't surprise me that she became such a talented actor. It is hard to even imagine what it must be like for her family. My heart is heavy," Jane said.

Actor Alan Cumming said: “The term 'life force' seems trite but that is what she was: a woman who powered through life and fascinated everyone she encountered."

Kevin Spacey, artistic director of London's Old Vic theatre, said: "There are no words to express how tragic Natasha Richardson's untimely passing is for the theatre community. Her passion, devotion and talent will forever be etched on those who saw her work on the stage. The bloodlines of greatness were always there and she committed herself to every role she tackled."

Natasha died of blunt fall, which led epidural hematoma, which is internal bleeding in the skull. Her body has already been taken to a funeral home.