RIDGEFIELD, CT (May 21, 2025) — Ridgefield Playhouse proudly announces the success of its first-ever Ridgefield Town Party, held on Sunday, May 18, 2025. This free celebration brought together more than 1,500 Ridgefield residents including First Selectperson Rudy Marconi and Playhouse founder Barbara Manners as well as 16 Ridgefield businesses and non-profit organizations for a day of music, culture, and community.
“At the Playhouse, a core part of our mission is bringing people together through the arts—and the Ridgefield Town Party is a perfect example of that,” said Ashley Paltauf, Executive Director of the Ridgefield Playhouse. “We’re incredibly grateful to our fellow non-profits and to the entire community for making this event so meaningful. The turnout was amazing, and we truly believe that when we lift each other up, we all grow stronger.”
Held at Governor’s Park, adjacent to the Playhouse, the event featured a lineup of Ridgefield non-profits, including SPHERE, The Ridgefield Theater Barn, The Ridgefield Chorale, Prospector Theater, and A.C.T. of CT. Children enjoyed activities sponsored by Ridgefield Academy, while attendees sampled offerings from local food trucks at a picnic area sponsored by East Haven & Ridgefield Building Supply. Attendees also participated in a silent auction featuring over 50 unique items and experiences, such as a Tauck River Cruise and a Dave Matthews Band Signed Guitar
The highlight of the day came at 4:00pm, when East Coast alt-rock staple Guster took the stage. Delivering fan favorites like “Satellite” and “Do You Love Me” to an elated and vocal crowd.
- Presenting Sponsor: Michele & Tom Quindlen
- Prime Sponsors: Lori & John Berisford | Tizzie & Tom Mantione | Glori & Adam Norwitt | Tauck
- Benefactor Sponsors: Ann & Steve Carlson | Eileen & Mark Cunningham | East Haven & Ridgefield Building Supply | Mercedes-Benz of Danbury | Rachel & Joe Sondheimer
- Supporter: Cross Private Client Insurance Agency | Lia & Joe Del Toro | Ridgefield Academy | Ridgefield Parks and Recreation | Ridgefield Rotary Club | Allison & Jon Stockel | Town of Ridgefield
- Community Engagement Supporters: Aquarion Water Company | Anita & Nick Donofrio | M&T Bank | Sabina & Harlan Stone
"What a fantastic day for Ridgefield! The Town Party exceeded all expectations—great crowd, lots of families, beautiful weather, and the perfect band to bring it all together. It was a joyful, unforgettable celebration, and we are honored to have been a part of it," said Presenting Sponsors Michele and Tom Quindlen.
Due to overwhelming demand, advance RSVPs reached capacity well before the event, underscoring the community's enthusiasm and support.