Top honors for The Ridgefield Playhouse as “Business of the Year” at Chamber breakfast on Friday, March 13

Now in its 15^th year, The Ridgefield Playhouse has been selected as “Business of the Year” by the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the non-profit performing arts center’s noteworthy accomplishments and contributions to the business community and residents of Ridgefield. The award will be presented at the Chamber’s inaugural breakfast and State of the Town address on Friday, March 13 (snow date March 19), from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Silver Spring Country Club, Ridgefield.  Other highlights of this early morning gathering will include the inauguration of the Chamber’s Board of Directors for 2015 and an annual address by First Selectman Rudy Marconi.

“The Playhouse is a valuable member of the community and has built a strong business presence as an innovative, collaborative business partner in the Ridgefield community,” said a spokesperson for the Chamber. This honor underscores and acknowledges the value of the arts and cultural opportunities afforded by The Ridgefield Playhouse, whose mission is to serve the Ridgefield community and neighboring environs by fostering an appreciation for the arts through enrichment and entertainment programs including movies, musical performances, theater and other performing art forms, at a price and with a content accessible to a broad cross-section of the public.  More than 70,000 patrons attend Playhouse events each year, making Ridgefield a destination spot for out-of-town visitors as well as providing an artistically vibrant performing arts center for its residents. It is estimated that the Playhouse attracts approximately $1.4 million annually to Ridgefield businesses and restaurants, contributing to the economic stability of the town.

A marketing powerhouse, The Ridgefield Playhouse is adept at putting together a quintessential patron experience by pairing a show with lobby festivities and dining out. Having partnered with dozens of area corporations, small businesses, service providers and food establishments for the past 15 years, the Playhouse has created a reputation of high entertainment value, which attracts patrons from a broad geographic and demographic spectrum, and has become one of Fairfield County’s most sought-after entertainment venues.  Going to a show at The Ridgefield Playhouse becomes a “night on the town” starting with dinner in one of the community’s high quality eating establishments – anything from family-style casual dining to haute cuisine – and continues into the lobby, oftentimes for an art exhibit, pop-up boutiques, complimentary wine & cheese, beer & spirits and sweets, selected to complement a particular event or show.  As is done at notable venues such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and the Met, a bar and concessions offer a healthy choice of snacks and beverages for everyone in the family. Going to The Ridgefield Playhouse becomes a total sensory experience, and it’s all included in the price of admission.

To attend the Chamber of Commerce breakfast and help congratulate The Ridgefield Playhouse and other organizations and individuals who will be recognized, visit RidgefieldChamber.org (Events), or call 203-438-5992; $45 per person. The Ridgefield Playhouse is located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street in Ridgefield, CT. To learn more about The Ridgefield Playhouse programs and funding opportunities, visitridgefieldplayhouse.org, or call 203-438-5795.