Mr. Booth was 89. In 1967 he was named chairman of the new TDF, a nonprofit that served to promote theatre in New York City. TDF may be best known today for its discount, same-day ticket booths in Times Square, lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. "As one of TDF's founders and its first chairman from 1967-70, John was an instrumental force in defining TDF and its mission," said Victoria Bailey, TDF's executive director. "He remained an active trustee until he moved to New Mexico in 2004. John's passion for the theatre and new plays and his commitment to the American playwright were unparalleled. We will miss his vigor, humor and passion."

John Erlanger Booth was born in Dobbs Ferry, NY, the son of Emil and Aimee Erlanger. His father died when John was a child and John took the surname of his later stepfather, Douglas Booth.

Mr. Booth was a messenger at The New York Times and later wrote for the paper. His marriage to Anne Kaufman, daughter of the playwright George S. Kaufman, ended in divorce. Mr. Booth married Janet Pomeroy, who died in 1980.

Mr. Booth is survived by his son, Douglas, of Rowe, NM.