Chicago Theater Giant William Pullinsi Passes Away at 86

William Pullinsi, renowned for establishing dinner theater in America, died at age 86 on May 17. He passed away from natural causes at his home in Dyer, Indiana. His partner at the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, Tony D’Angelo, shared the news of his passing. D’Angelo recalled their decades-long partnership, saying, “Everybody who worked for him, he considered family.”

Pullinsi’s impact on theater was profound. He directed over 400 productions, mainly in Chicago, and fostered talent in many actors, such as Mandy Patinkin, Joe Mantegna, and John C. Reilly. His dinner theater concept began in Washington, D.C. in 1959, offering dinner and a show for $3.95. They moved to Chicago in 1961, launching what they called “The Original Dinner Playhouse” in Summit, Illinois.

The Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, first located near Midway Airport, became iconic. It was a glamorous yet accessible venue that played a vital role in the lives of Chicagoland residents. The success allowed Pullinsi to relocate to a larger theater in 1964, seating 550 people. In 1973, Pullinsi expanded with the Forum Theatre, which showcased more daring performances.

The theater provided patrons with a unique experience, serving food and drinks before the show. The productions featured actors in a theater-in-the-round style, accompanied by live orchestras. Despite its popularity, the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse closed in 1997 after financial difficulties.

Pullinsi’s influence extended beyond Chicago. His methods were replicated nationwide, including Burt Reynolds’ Dinner Theater in Florida. The Tribune acknowledged his contributions with the Chicagoan of the Year in Theater award in 2015. Despite the closure of his theaters, Pullinsi’s impact endures through those he mentored, like Eileen LeCario of Broadway in Chicago and publicist Noreen Heron.

Among his notable works were productions like “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Little Shop of Horrors.” Pullinsi is credited with reigniting interest in Stephen Sondheim’s “Follies” and bringing “Boss,” based on Mike Royko’s book about Mayor Daley, to the stage.

Pullinsi is survived by his son, Jamie Pullinsi, and his former wife, Ami Silvestre. Funeral arrangements are still being made.