The Capitol Theatre and the Village of Port Chester honored honoring founding Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh with a lasting tribute.
On Friday, March 14, 2025, in celebration of Lesh’s 85th birthday on March 15, the corner of Westchester Avenue and Broad Street – right outside the historic venue – was officially renamed Phil Lesh Lane.
Broad Street holds special significance as home to The Cap’s “Door 12” stage door – the very entrance Lesh used for 106 performances since 2012 and the spot where his tour bus was regularly parked.
The official street dedication ceremony featured Lesh’s son, Grahame Lesh alongside an all-star lineup. Support during the four-show run included Rick Mitarotonda, Eric Krasno, Oteil Burbridge, Jason Crosby, John Molo, Jennifer Hartswick, Jackie Greene, Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams, Steve Molitz, Warren Haynes, Jimmy Herring, and Rob Barraco.
As a founding member of the Grateful Dead, Lesh played a pivotal role in shaping Port Chester’s musical and cultural legacy.
The band’s 18 legendary shows at The Capitol Theatre between 1970 and 1971 remain a defining moment in the venue’s history, with recordings treasured by fans worldwide.
Since The Capitol Theatre’s reopening in 2012, Lesh has since returned for 106 shows, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans to Port Chester and fueling the local economy.
Lesh’s deep ties to the village have been recognized over the years. He received the Key to Port Chester and was named an Honorary Firefighter by the Port Chester Volunteer Fire Department.
Now, with Phil Lesh Lane, the community is solidifying his legacy with a permanent landmark.
Photo: Scott Harris
Photo: Courtesy of The Capitol Theatre
Photo: Courtesy of The Capitol Theatre
Photo: Courtesy of The Capitol Theatre