Brewster, NY | HamletHub

Stories

Jan 27, 2025

Innovative Vision Meets Timeless Tradition, Levine goes deep in A.C.T.’s Fiddler

Last night, a group of A.C.T. of Connecticut’s most devoted supporters had the rare opportunity to step inside the creative process during a working rehearsal of the theater’s much-anticipated production of Fiddler on the Roof. Directed by Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine and featuring the music direction of Bryan Perri, this unique rendition of the timeless musical promises to be an unforgettable exploration of storytelling, culture, and history.A Story That Hits Close to Home“This is my story. I feel very, very connected to it, and it is very, very personal,” Levine fought back tears as he addressed the attendees. As the grandson of Russian immigrants and a Jewish person who grew up immersed in the teachings of remembrance, Levine’s connection to Fiddler on the Roof is deeply rooted in his family’s history.“In Hebrew school, we’re taught to always remember to never forget. The moment we stop remembering, atrocities can happen again. Bearing witness is essential and creates a responsibility, and that’s a cornerstone of our production.”Levine’s one-of-a-kind approach underscores this ethos. Throughout the performance, the entire cast of 25 remains on stage, symbolizing collective witnessing. Even when not directly involved in a scene, the actors—seated on scenically designed risers—serve as silent observers, embodying the ever-present weight of history.Levine says, "This artistic choice highlights the interconnectedness of the characters’ lives and their shared experiences, reflecting the communal struggles and triumphs of Anatevka. By keeping the cast visible, we emphasize that each individual’s story is part of a larger narrative. The village’s collective memory and resilience take center stage, amplifying the universal themes of tradition, change, and survival. My hope is that this artistic choice also invites the audience to engage more deeply, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared responsibility for these timeless stories."Innovative Vision Meets Timeless TraditionFiddler on the Roof traditionally opens with the iconic number, “Tradition.” However, Levine’s vision offers something bold—a prologue that sets the stage in a deeply emotional and meaningful way before the familiar song begins.“I didn’t want to simply restage the original Broadway production,” Levine explained. “This is a story that my family has lived, and I wanted to bring that intimacy and authenticity to every moment.”Levine’s desire to make the production personal extended to the casting process. “When actors came into the audition room, I looked for those who, in a sense, felt like my family. It’s more than talent; it’s about storytelling and connection. These actors could be my aunts, sisters, or brothers. That’s why they’re here.”Original Choreography with Cultural RootsCollaborating with choreographer Josh Assor, Levine ensured the movements in this production evoke the emotional core of Jewish culture while reimagining some of the classic choreography originally created by Jerome Robbins. The result is a dance language that feels rooted in tradition yet fresh and dynamic.Music That Speaks to the SoulUnder the music direction of Music Supervisor Bryan Perri, A.C.T.’s 11-piece orchestra provides the evocative soundtrack that breathes life into the village of Anatevka. Songs like “Tradition” and “Miracles of Miracles,” previewed during last night’s rehearsal, moved both cast and audience members alike.“There have been a lot of tears during our rehearsal period,” Levine confessed, highlighting the emotional gravity of the material. “We don’t shy away from the darker parts of the story. That’s where the truth lives.”A Production to RememberSet in the small Jewish village of Anatevka in Imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century, Fiddler on the Roof is a story of faith, family, and the struggle to balance tradition with change. Through Levine’s innovative direction and A.C.T.’s exceptional cast, this production will not only honor the original but also challenge audiences to reflect on their own role in bearing witness to history.ACT of Connecticut’s Fiddler on the Roof opens on February 6 and runs through March 9, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to experience this reimagined masterpiece that promises to resonate with audiences long after the curtain falls.Purchase tickets<a href="https://www.actofct.org/fiddler-on-the-roof" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> https://www.actofct.org/fiddler-on-the-roof</a>*This image was taken during a working rehearsal of Fiddler on the Roof

Jan 22, 2025

Celebrate 25 years of the Ridgefield Playhouse by becoming a member today!

Celebrate 25 Years of the Ridgefield Playhouse: Become a Member Today!This year marks a significant milestone for the Ridgefield Playhouse as we celebrate 25 years of inspiring and enriching the community through performing arts. There’s never been a better time to become a member and support this cherished cultural gem!Membership Has Its PrivilegesBy becoming a member, you’re not only helping preserve and grow a beloved community institution but also gaining access to incredible perks: early ticket access, VIP parking, invitations to exclusive events, and more.Membership options start at just $120 per year and offer levels to suit every kind of patron—from single memberships to the all-inclusive concierge membership. No matter your level, your support contributes to fulfilling the Playhouse’s mission: to entertain, enrich, and educate our community and surrounding areas, and to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.<h3>MEMBERSHIP LEVELS & BENEFITS</h3><h3>SINGLE MEMBERSHIP $120</h3><ul><li>Ability to purchase up to two tickets before the public</li></ul><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE SINGLE MEMBERSHIP</a><h3>Family MEMBERSHIP $200</h3><ul><li>Ability to purchase up to four tickets before the public</li></ul><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE FAMILY MEMBERSHIP</a><h3>Gold MEMBERSHIP $500</h3><ul><li>Ability to purchase up to eight tickets before the public</li><li>VIP Parking</li></ul><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE GOLD MEMBERSHIP</a><h3>Platinum MEMBERSHIP $750</h3><ul><li>Ability to purchase up to ten tickets before the public</li><li>Invitation to Annual Holiday Party</li><li>VIP Parking</li></ul><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP</a><h3>DIAMOND MEMBERSHIP $1,200</h3><ul><li>Ability to purchase up to 12 tickets before the public</li><li>Invitation to Annual Holiday Party</li><li>VIP Parking</li></ul><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE DIAMOND MEMBERSHIP</a><h3>CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP $3,500</h3><ul><li>Advance notice of events</li><li>Patron liaison for all ticketing needs***</li><li>The ability to purchase 2 Premium Orchestra reserved seats for every event*</li><li>Ability to purchase additional tickets</li><li>VIP Parking</li></ul><a href="https://tickets.ridgefieldplayhouse.org/MembershipSelection.asp?type=1&origType=0&_gl=1*10pwdng*_gcl_au*MTkwNjk1ODg3MC4xNzE5NDk3MzY3LjU0MzU1MzM4OS4xNzE5NDk4OTI5LjE3MTk0OTg5MzA.*_ga*MTQ5NTgxMDc1My4xNzE5NDk3MzY3*_ga_NNWX5Z8R64*MTcxOTUxNDIwNS40LjEuMTcxOTUxNDgzOS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.70109264.1700499487.1719497368-1495810753.1719497367" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">PURCHASE CONCIERGE MEMBERSHIP</a>Learn more about Ridgefield Playhouse and find out what’s on stage <a href="https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org/</a>

Jan 17, 2025

Martha Stewart adopts Persian cat locally, shares accolades for Rock N' Rescue!

Martha Stewart, lifestyle icon and renowned animal lover, has once again highlighted the beauty of pet adoption by welcoming a silver-shaded Persian cat named Magnolia into her home. Magnolia’s journey, facilitated by the local Bedford Hills, NY, non-profit Rock ‘N Rescue, shows the heartwarming impact of finding a forever family for rescue animals. Rock ‘N Rescue proudly announced on Instagram that their first adoption of 2025 was none other than Magnolia, once named Angel, rescued from NYC Animal Care Centers. Now, Magnolia is thriving at Cantitoe Corners, Martha’s picturesque farm. “This kitty hit the literal catnip pot!” shared Rock ‘N Rescue, who celebrate finding extraordinary homes for their rescues. Martha detailed her experience on Instagram @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/marthastewartblog/#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">marthastewartblog</a> sharing her admiration for Rock ‘N Rescue and encouraging others to adopt pets: “I urge anyone looking for a pet to check out local rescues and shelters – there are so many desirable and wonderful animals waiting for homes.”

Jan 16, 2025

Brewster resident Alexandra Schajer named to Dean's List at Bucknell University

Bucknell University has released the dean's list for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2024-25 academic year. Congratulations to Brewster resident Alexandra Schajer, class of 2027, who was named to the Dean's List.A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive dean's list recognition.

Jan 16, 2025

BHS Teacher Dr. Brittany Kozlenko Receives Presidential Award

Brewster High School Science teacher Brittany Kozlenko received the nation's highest honor for teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.This week, President Biden announced 336 teachers and mentors from around the nation as recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. These awards honor the vital role that America’s teachers and mentors play in shaping the next generation of technical leaders, including scientists, engineers, explorers, and innovators. Brittany Kozlenko, physics teacher at BHS received this honor. She is one of only six teachers in NY State to receive the award this year.“It is recognition of the hard work STEM teachers, in particular, do on a daily basis to pass on our passion to our students,” said Kozlenko, “I view recipients as teachers who continually look for better ways to engage students and make learning more meaningful. Awardees want to make STEM education better, not just for their own students, but for all students. Receiving the Presidential Award is an honor that I will continue to work to be worthy of for the rest of my career.”Dr. Brittany Kozlenko has been a teacher at Brewster High School for the past 17 years. She has taught 9-12th grade Advanced Placement Physics, along with introductory physics classes and robotics electives throughout her tenure. After being trained on computational modeling, Dr. Kozlenko has been working towards implementing this approach in her classroom. She uses a variety of ways to engage students, constantly fine tuning her pedagogy. Her passion for STEM education extends beyond the classroom. She has taken on the role of Science Liaison as well as advocating for the creation of a K-12 Science Articulation Committee within her district. She is also a member of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Committee. On professional development days, she has run workshops on Project Based Learning, Flipped Classrooms, and Integrating Technology. In 2018, Dr. Kozlenko had the opportunity to take a leave of absence from her teaching position. During this time, she was the Content Specialist for physics on the Socratic app by Google. She has been honored for her excellence in the classroom and her innovative use of technology over the years. In 2016, she was awarded a Regeneron STEM Fellowship, taking classes through NASA's endeavor program, and working for two weeks with Regeneron scientists. In 2018, she was named an Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award recipient. In 2022, she was selected by the Lower Hudson Regional Information Center (LHRIC) as a teacher who Transforms Education through Leading and Learning (TELL). Dr. Kozlenko earned a B.S. in physics from Fairfield University, an M.S. in instructional technology from Western Connecticut State University, and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from St. John's University. She is certified in physics.“Dr. Kozlenko inspires learning through her innovative pedagogy and infectious enthusiasm,” said BHS Principal Nicole Horler, “Students use computational modeling to navigate Dr. Kozlenko's classes. She is that out of the box teacher that serves as an instructional leader for her students and all of Brewster High School.”Brewster Central School District congratulates Dr. Kozlenko for this prestigious honor. It is a testament to her dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in STEM education and her commitment to preparing BCSD students for a bright future.

Jan 10, 2025

PR/Hispanic Youth Leadership Initiative Empowers Students to Become Leaders

Brewster High School students Jayron Sandoval Sola, Mariana Miguel Mendez,Shirlyn Guerra Guzman, and Ashley Guerra are participating in the Puerto Rican / Hispanic Youth Leadership Initiative. The leadership initiative seeks to empower students to become leaders by learning about the state legislative process, developing partnerships and interacting with positive role models. This week, the students traveled to SUNY Purchase to meet state Assemblymember Karines Reyes from District 87. Reyes, the chair of the Puerto Rican / Hispanic Task Force in the Assembly, spoke to the students about her life and work and how they could become involved in the future. “The experience of meeting Assemblymember Reyes was memorable,” said Ashley Guerra, “because she explained her job and her responsibilities as an active member in the NYS assembly–representing people of Hispanic backgrounds like me. A highlight was her personal advice for us to use in our future and realizing our goals.”Shirlyn Guerra Guzman said, “It was fascinating hearing about how Reyes took a stand in her nursing job, which later led to her becoming an Assembly member.”Reyes is the sponsor of the two bills students are debating this year as part of the youth leadership initiative: The Language Access Bill and the Predatory Marketing Prevention Act Bill. Students askedReyes questions about government in general as well as discussing specific bills in more depth. “Assemblymember Reyes is associated with the bills that we are working on,” said Jayron Sandoval Sola, “It was really interesting asking her questions about the bills.”The students ended the session with a lively debate on the Language Access Bill after feeling empowered. “I feel proud for us, Latinos, for rising to prominence and having a voice,” said Mariana Miguel Mendez. “I'm excited to be able to develop far more compelling arguments in the upcoming session to defend the rights of Hispanics. Through the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute, I am able to grow as a leader, learn how to communicate better with my peers, and—most importantly—leave my comfort zone. Those in my community who don't believe they have a voice or are too afraid to stand up for what they believe is right, are the people I want to continue helping the most.”

Jan 10, 2025

Bullseye! BHS Senior Headed to Nationals for Air Rifle Marksmanship

Bullseye!Brewster High School Senior Sofia LaRocca is headed to the nationals for the Air Rifle Marksmanship competition sponsored by ther National Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. The competition will take place in Anniston, Alabama on February 16, 2025.  It is the first time Brewster’s NJROTC has participated in an Area Air Rifle Championship, the qualifying competition for nationals, and the first time one of its members has qualified for nationals. The program is only three years old. During an Air Rifle Marksmanship competition, cadets must shoot in three positions–standing, kneeling, and lying down. They are required to shoot 20 recorded shots on 20 separate targets, in each position (60 targets total). They shoot at a distance of 10 meters at targets as small as a quarter. At Areas, LaRocca came in first place with a score of 502. LaRocca practices three times a week in the NJROTC classroom.“I just relax, let go of everything and focus on the target,” she said.“She has a natural talent,” said her instructor Master Chief Michael Campbell.The accomplishment is especially impressive as LaRocca suffered a stroke at the age of 10, which left her paralyzed on the left side. Air rifle marksmanship offered LaRocca a chance to compete. When LaRocca first took aim three years ago, she knew she had something special. Since then, she has kept hitting the mark and winning competitions. Last summer, she took first place at the Palmetto Games in South Carolina–competing against experienced marksmen. Last weekend, at Area Championships, her scores were high enough to qualify for Nationals. Now, LaRocca dreams of making it to the Para Olympics in 2028.“She definitely has a shot,” said Campbell. “Definitely!”