Theater producer, impresario  Robert Garner, so instrumental in bringing Broadway touring shows to Denver, died Thursday at his home after a brief illness. The Honorary Denver Center for the Performing Arts Trustee was 80. The arts complex’s cabaret space, the Garner Galleria Theatre, was named in his honor.

“Bob’s influence in Broadway touring theatre at the Denver Center and around the country will not be forgotten,” said Dan Ritchie and Randy Weeks, the chair/CEO and the president of the Denver Center in a joint statement. Plans for a celebration of Garner’s life will be forthcoming, according to the Denver Center.

Lisa Kennedy: 303-954-1567, lkennedy@denverpost.com or twitter.com/bylisakennedy