Thomas J. Gates, a renowned stage manager in the Broadway scene, was killed at the age of 51 when he was hit by a train near South Orange Station, New Jersey. The incident took place at approximately 9:12 a.m. on Wednesday, May 8, and is under investigation.
As per the report from NJ Transit, a Morris & Essex Line train heading toward Penn Station in New York was involved in the tragic accident. The train had a total of 60 people, including passengers and crew members, onboard at the time; however, no other injuries were reported. The incident resulted in temporary disruptions to the Morris and Essex and Gladstone Branch rail lines, as disclosed by NJ Transit.
The official Instagram account for the Broadway production of “Illinoise,” a show Gates was known for working on, paid tribute to him. The account recognized Gates’ indispensable role in the production, stating, “Thom was the center of “Illinoise” on Broadway, a beloved friend and collaborator. We are devastated for his husband Rick, another member of the “Illinoise” community. These two amazing human beings led our company on our journey since the beginning. We dedicate the run of “Illinoise” to Thom and his loving memory.” The show was canceled for the evening in light of his death.
Gates was known for his proficiency and commitment to Broadway productions such as “High Fidelity,” “Brooklyn,” “Newsies,” and “The Visit.” His ability to handle the intricacies of such productions earned him respect within the theater community.
Sara Bareilles, who collaborated with Gates on “Waitress,” shared her condolences on Instagram. She described Gates as gentle, funny, soft-spoken, reliable, generous, loving, compassionate, and hardworking – characteristics that highlight the void his passing has left in the lives of those who knew him both personally and professionally.
Justin Peck, the director and choreographer for “Illinoise,” echoed Bareilles’ sentiments on his Instagram Stories, adding, “My heart breaks for this and for him and his family. A truly gentle, kind, and intelligent person… He will be deeply missed in so many ways.”
A GoFundMe page was set up to provide financial assistance to Gates’ husband, Rick Steiger.
A public memorial for stage manager Gates will be held at the St. James Theatre July 15, 2024 at 2 p.m.
