Magna Severs Ties With Drabinsky

The federal fraud indictment of Garth Drabinsky, producer of such Broadway hits as “Ragtime” and “Phantom of the Opera,” has prompted the developer of Santa Anita Park’s proposed parking lot entertainment center to sever ties with him. Officials at Magna International Inc., the Canadian auto-parts maker that is seeking to develop the land adjacent to the racetrack in Arcadia, said it’s ending its consulting relationship with Drabinsky, who, among others, was indicted on charges of carrying on an eight-year accounting scheme while head of now-defunct Livent Inc. Livent produced numerous theatrical shows that garnered a total of 18 Tony awards. Drabinsky was hired last month by Magna chief Frank Stronach--the two are acquaintances--to review retail concepts for the Santa Anita development. Magna spokesman Keith Stein defended his boss’ hiring of Drabinsky, saying they wanted his expertise, fraud allegations notwithstanding. “I think most people would say he’s a talented man,” Stein said. “Maybe not the world’s greatest manager.”