Guys and Dolls at ACT of CT, Meet the Local Stars: Richard Westfahl

From Connecticut to NYC and Back Again!

There are so many incredibly talented actors working on Broadway, on National Tours, and at some of the most prestigious regional theaters across the country. And many of these accomplished performers hail right from our area! Connecticut has always been a hotbed of talent, and so it is no wonder that, when thumbing through a Broadway Playbill, many cast members give a shout-out to their Connecticut hometowns!

Ridgefield’s ACT of CT is entering its 5th season this fall and has achieved incredible success since opening its doors in 2018 (including a Grammy Nomination for its cast album of Stephen Schwartz’s SNAPSHOTS!).

Actors with multiple Broadway credits jump at the opportunity to be cast in an ACT of CT production. The theater's productions are always nothing less than Broadway caliber, and it is no wonder that any ACT of CT cast list reads like a regular “who’s who” on Broadway. And, not surprisingly, a handful of these wildly talented performers are Connecticut born and bred!  

ACT of CT’s upcoming production of GUYS AND DOLLS runs from Oct 27 through Nov 20 and stars some unbelievable Broadway talent - like Donna Vivino from Broadway’s WICKED, and Phil Sloves from Broadway’s SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS.

The show is directed by Daniel C. Levine (from Broadway’s LES MISERABLES, MAMMA MIA, CHICAGO, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, and ROCKY HORROR SHOW), choreographed by Sara Brians (from Broadway’s MATILDA and BILLY ELLIOTT), and music supervised by Bryan Perri (from Broadway’s WICKED, JAGGED LITTLE PILL, and ALMOST FAMOUS). Featured in the production are 24 of the most talented actors (literally at the top of their game), some of whom are Connecticut natives and residents who are returning “home” to be a part of this remarkable production. 

Meet Matt Faucher, Michael Boland, Michael McGuirk, Val Moranto, and Richard Westfahl: all professional and successful actors (some with Broadway credits) who will be on stage in Ridgefield at ACT of CT performing in their upcoming musical, GUYS AND DOLLS!

In the coming weeks, right here on HamletHub, we will each of these incredible actors!

Meet Richard Westfahl

Q: What is your connection to Connecticut?

A:  I was born and raised in Stamford Connecticut.  Connecticut is where I found my love for theater and dance.  I started taking tap and jazz classes at Locust Performing Arts Center at the age of 8, I sang in the children's choir at St. Leo’s Parish, and was in my first musical at the age of 9 at Crystal Theatre in South Norwalk.  From there I continued performing in the Stamford All School Musicals and at Westhill High School.  

Q: What is it about ACT of CT’s production of GUYS AND DOLLS that made you audition and want to be a part of it?

A: I wanted to audition for ACT’s production of Guys and Dolls because I love “big” musical comedies.  This show is packed with great Broadway classics, dance numbers, and lots of laughs.  From the audition, it was clear that Sara Brians has thrilling high-energy choreography in store for the show, which is exciting as an artist to be in a production that is going to push me physically. I was also excited by the opportunity to work at a high-caliber theater that is so close to my hometown of Stamford (and New York City).  My family, friends, dance teachers, and even my mom’s book club are all thrilled that they can cheer me on in a show so close to home!

Q: Why are regional theaters (like ACT of CT) so very important?

A: Regional theaters are so important because they increase accessibility to the art form and foster a sense of community. Financially, regional theaters bring “business” to the community which in turn helps local stores, restaurants, and hotels.  Being able to see theater that is unique to your region is thrilling.  It allows space to try out new works, to reimagine beloved classics, and to give audiences an entertaining live experience right in their hometown.

Visit ACT of CT 

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Submitted by Brewster, NY

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