Westport Playhouse Remembers Arts Patron Howard J. Aibel, Who Passed March 9

Westport, CT - Westport Country Playhouse’s leadership issued the following statements today on the March 9th death of Howard J. Aibel, who served actively on the Playhouse Board of Trustees since 2005, most recently as Vice Chair. In February 2018, the historic theater named its entire campus “The Howard J. Aibel Theater Center at Westport Country Playhouse” in recognition of his $3 million gift. Aibel, age 88 of Weston, Connecticut, was a lawyer, conservationist, philanthropist, and arts advocate.

“Knowing Howard and being supported always inspired me to do my best work. He was a champion of fine theater, and a uniquely knowledgeable one.”   - Mark Lamos, Westport Country Playhouse Artistic Director

“Our community has lost a great leader and advocate. Howard never sought the spotlight but always sought to inspire others to action, leading by his own actions. He believed that experiencing live theater is central to a life well lived; his was certainly well lived.”  - Michael Barker, Westport Country Playhouse Managing Director

“Howard was an incredible friend of the Playhouse for decades, first as a loyal subscriber, and then as a Trustee since 2005. His vision and generosity have been instrumental in shaping the Playhouse as we know it today.”  - Barbara Streicker, Westport Country Playhouse Board of Trustees’ Chair

Notes of sympathy and remembrance can be sent to Westport Country Playhouse, attn: Aibel Memorial, and will be forwarded to the family.  

A public memorial service will be announced soon.