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Jun 05, 2025

A Farcical Finale to a Landmark Season Moon Over Buffalo Ridgefield Theater Barn

On the last Saturday night in May, I found myself at a table in a renovated theater with 3 High School seniors, all of whom were two weeks away from graduating, two of whom were about to go to college in pursuit of theater degrees, one setting off for a liberal arts degree, all of whom were excited about the show we were about to see. The room was packed, and it occurred to me in these troubled times it felt like we all really needed to be there; sitting in that space together; anticipating sharing an experience- togetherAs the final production in Ridgefield Theater Barn’s milestone 60th season, Moon Over Buffalo closed the year with a burst of energy, slapstick, and classic theatrical chaos. Written by Ken Ludwig, the play is a fast-paced farce set in 1953 Buffalo, New York, where aging theater stars George and Charlotte Hay struggle to keep their careers afloat amidst personal drama and professional disasters. When a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity from Hollywood comes knocking, mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and backstage bedlam threaten to upend everything. Director Diana Canova keeps the pace brisk and the comedic timing tight—both essential in a show where doors slam as often as punchlines land. Her direction maintains the play’s farcical rhythm without losing the emotional stakes at its core. The result is a show that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious, and is a lively, well-executed homage to the madness of live theater. At the center of the mayhem are Gillian Holt and Fred Rueck as Charlotte and George Hay, a pair of fading stage actors still clinging to the spotlight. Holt’s Charlotte is sharp, commanding, and full of theatrical flair, playing beautifully off Rueck’s bombastic and increasingly unhinged George. Their chemistry is palpable and delightfully combustible, anchoring the show’s chaos in a believable (if exaggerated) love-hate partnership.Elayne Gordon delivers standout comedic timing as Ethel, Charlotte’s nearly deaf mother, whose misheard lines were consistent crowd-pleasers. Julia Preis brings warmth and wit to Rosalind, the Hays’ daughter trying to distance herself from the family business, while still seeing both her parents in her, Cooper Smithers (Howard) was hilarious as the nervous fiancée of Rosalind coming to meet the well-known parents. His timing and earnest smile had the audience eating out of the palm of his hand. Matt Donovan is a charmingly earnest Paul, grounding the action with sincerity and looking like he could be coming out of a door on “I Love Lucy” at any moment. Timothy Huber (Richard) acted s the perfect stalwart of the “other option” in life, bringing us in to his love for Charlotte and ultimately his pathos when confronted with the enormity of the soul of an Actor. Clara Sussman rounds out the cast as Eileen with the right balance of vulnerability and mischief and comedic timing. Claudia Noel Nerreau’s set design is both functional and visually engaging, with multiple entrances and exits that support the frantic movement demanded by the script. The backstage setting—a theatrical green room and performance space—is rendered with just the right level of lived-in realism.Nerreau’s costumes are equally effective, evoking the period with style while adding to the characters’ eccentricities. From George’s swashbuckling Cyrano costume to Charlotte’s glamorous stage attire, each look serves both character and comedy. Mark Hanla’s lighting design subtly underscores scene transitions and helps accentuate the moments of dramatic irony and physical comedy. It never calls attention to itself, but its precision helps keep the farce flowing smoothly. Remaining performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM through June 21st, with Sunday matinees on June 8 and 15 at 5:00 PM. The Ridgefield Theater Barn is located at 37 Halpin Lane, Ridgefield, CT 06877. Tickets are $30, available at<a href="http://www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org.</a> Seating is cabaret-style, and audience members are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. Doors open one hour prior to curtain. All sales are final.Moon Over Buffalo is a smart, crowd-pleasing farce, with very few moments from the time the lights go up, where someone, if not all of the audience are laughing — expertly staged, sharply performed, and the perfect finale to a remarkable season. Don’t miss this laugh-out-loud gem. Photo: Timothy Huber - Richard, Matt Donovan - Paul, Gillian Holt- Charlotte, Julia Preis- Rosalind, Elayne Gordan-Ethel.

Apr 30, 2025

CEE Celebrates 50 Years of Impact at Annual Dinner with Over 350 Guests!

The Center for Empowerment and Education (CEE) celebrated a remarkable milestone on Friday, April 11, hosting its Annual Dinner at the Amber Room Colonnade to mark 50 years of uninterrupted service to the community. Themed From Fifty to the Future, the event brought together more than 350 guests to honor the past, celebrate the present, and invest in the future.The evening highlighted the outstanding contributions of this year’s award honorees:<ul><li>Honoring the Past: CEE Founding Members Alice Chapman, Betti Corso, and Bonnie Law</li><li>Honoring the Present: Current CEE Staff</li><li>Honoring the Future: The inspiring young women of Girls Inspiring Girls at Newtown High School</li></ul>Guests were welcomed by Honorary Chairs Pamela Chapman and Carla (Corso) Pierce, whose leadership helped shape a meaningful evening of celebration and giving. The program also featured Dave Price, WNBC Weather Anchor, as the evening’s spirited auctioneer, rallying enthusiastic support for CEE’s mission.Proceeds from the event support CEE’s no-cost crisis intervention and prevention programs and services, including ongoing education and awareness efforts to reduce and prevent interpersonal violence across the region.<blockquote>“Interpersonal violence isn’t a thing of the past—it’s an epidemic that continues to affect individuals and families right here in our own community. Every day, more survivors find the courage to come forward, asking for safety, support, and to be believed. And the truth is, we are in the fight of our lives.</blockquote><blockquote>We’re fighting for the resources and staffing it takes to respond quickly, effectively, and inclusively. We’re fighting to ensure every survivor is met with compassion and care. This work doesn’t stop, because the need doesn’t stop.</blockquote><blockquote>And the future we’re building—a future that’s safe, survivor-centered, and free from violence—depends on the choices we make right now. It depends on each of us choosing not to look away, but to invest in services that are truly for everyone—because interpersonal violence doesn’t discriminate, and neither can our response.”</blockquote><blockquote> — Ashley Dunn, President & CEO, The Center for Empowerment and Education</blockquote>CEE extends heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, supporters, and volunteers who made this milestone event possible.To view event photos or make a contribution, visit <a href="https://www.thecenterct.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thecenterct.org</a>.

Apr 29, 2025

THEATER BARN ANNOUNCES NEW LITTLE THEATER KIDS WORKSHOP

The Ridgefield Theater Barn recently opened registration for their new Spring workshop, Little Theater.  LITTLE THEATERTaught by KATIE KELLYMay 5-28 (4 classes)$250A workshop for our youngest theater kids! An opportunity to introduce theater to kids 6-8 years old in a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment. They will engage in improvisation and stage performance and learn to tap into their creativity through games, songs and movement activities. STARTS MONDAY, 5/5/2025Mondays: 4:45-5:30pm4 Weeks: 5/5/25-5/28/25 (4 sessions) CLASS DATES:Monday, 5/5/25Monday, 5/12/25Monday, 5/19/25Monday, 5/26/25 NO CLASSWednesday, 5/28/25 RTBK workshops are geared toward kids grades 3 through 12 with an interest in acting, improv, singing, or musical theater. The programs are non-audition based, inclusive to all and offer a fun, nurturing environment where kids can be themselves. Financial aid and scholarships are available to any student. For more information, including full descriptions, a complete schedule, workshop and package prices, and registration details, please visit the Barn website, <a href="http://www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org</a>. Those with questions regarding financial support should reach out to Executive Director Pamme Jones at <a href="mailto:executivedirector@ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">executivedirector@</a><a href="ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org</a>

Apr 24, 2025

New Fairfield’s Sara Azzi Named Barnard Distinguished Student at WCSU

Dedication and abundant research opportunities have propelled Psychology major Sara Azzi to the top of her chosen field and earned her the Henry F. Barnard Distinguished Student Award.Fresh off a recent research presentation at the Eastern Psychological Association Conference in Manhattan, and about a month away from receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Western Connecticut State University, New Fairfield resident Sara Azzi stands at a unique crossroads—reflecting on her achievements while setting her sights on the path ahead. In either direction, one truth holds: Azzi has long known that she was meant to study Psychology—and she excels at it."I’ve always been interested in understanding human emotions and why people do what they do," she said.Azzi, who could have pursued her degree anywhere, chose WestConn for its value and reputation. "I wanted a quality education at an affordable price. I was also influenced by my older sister who absolutely loved WestConn’s Psychology Department," she explained.It didn’t take long for her to discover why. She joined the Psychology Student Association immediately and served as president during her sophomore and junior years. She was inducted into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, in her sophomore year and now serves as the chapter’s president.Her honors are numerous: Outstanding New Student in Psychology (2023), Outstanding Junior in Psychology (2024), and Outstanding Senior in Psychology (2025). She received the Willerman Memorial Award, given to an advanced Psychology major showing promise of significant contributions to the field. Additional accolades include induction into the National Society of Leadership and Success (2022), the John H. Hogan Endowed Scholarship (2023–24), Veronica Hagman Memorial Scholarship (2024–25), Western Research Day Provost’s Award (2024), a Sigma Xi Student Research Award nomination (2024), the Macricostas School of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Award (2025), and the distinguished Henry F. Barnard Award (2025). Her GPA: 3.95Beyond her academic pursuits, Azzi has been an active member of the campus community. She participated in the Rotaract Club during her sophomore and junior years, worked as an office assistant in the university’s Alumni Relations Office, and currently serves as a Peer Leader in the Career Success Center. She is also a teaching assistant for PSY230.Because of her campus involvement and growing reputation, she was invited to a WCSU Foundation event by the Dean of the Macricostas School of Arts and Sciences. "At the event, I met WestConn benefactor Deno Macricostas, who owns Photronics, a worldwide leader in photomask products and services," Azzi said. That meeting led to an internship and seasonal employment in Photronics’ Human Resources Department for two years.But for Azzi, the most meaningful aspect of her college experience has been the opportunity to conduct professional-level psychological research."I work in two labs: the Vision & Cognition Lab run by Professor of Psychology Dr. Bernie Gee, and the Neuropsychology Lab at Nuvance through an opportunity provided by Professor of Psychology Dr. Mary Murphy," she said. Azzi presented her research on spatial reasoning at the Eastern Psychological Association Conference in Philadelphia in 2023, and this year shared a study of student perspectives on online courses at the same conference in Manhattan—both conducted with Dr. Gee. Her presentation on spatial reasoning earned the Provost’s Award at Western Research Day.At Nuvance, Azzi and fellow student Kylie Moody are the first undergraduate students to conduct research in the Neuropsychology Lab. "Since the beginning of the fall semester, we’ve been working with the computer science team to create an AI model that assesses driving ability in individuals with cognitive impairments," she explained. "Currently, there’s a year-long wait to be seen in Nuvance’s Neuropsych unit. Our goal is to reduce that timeframe by developing a tool that can reliably administer and score cognitive assessments."Azzi sees these research presentations and experiences as crucial stepping stones to her future."When you want a career in research, presenting at conferences is a big part of it," she said. "Most undergraduates don’t get that chance. It’s been incredible to attend a professional conference like the EPA, surrounded by Ph.D.-level researchers. I’ve had the chance to learn, connect, and grow."Dr. Gee, her mentor, offered high praise: "Sara is a mature student with natural leadership qualities. From her very first year at WestConn, she has elevated the campus. I think her greatest gifts are connecting with people and solving problems. She’ll continue to excel in anything she chooses to do."Now, with graduation approaching, Azzi is focused on the road ahead. She’s applying for research positions at Yale University’s Department of Psychiatry with an eye on a funded Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Her research interests include innovative therapies for depression and early interventions for psychosis and schizophrenia."Clinical Psychology Ph.D. programs can be even harder to get into than med school," she said. But she is undeterred."The Psychology faculty at WestConn are the most supportive people I know in terms of personal and career development," she said. "Dr. Gee hired me as a freshman to work in his lab—which is unheard of—but he saw something in me and took a chance."As she prepares to graduate debt-free, Azzi is grateful for the path she’s taken—and the people and possibilities that have shaped her journey.

Apr 23, 2025

Sip & Stroll Kentucky Derby Style May 3rd!

Dust off your derby hats from your closet andSip & Stroll along the sidewalks in New Fairfield. Sponsored by New Fairfield Parks & Recreation Saturday, May 3rd4pm-8pmBe sure to wear derby best (bold, bright, and floral). Music provided by the Snake Dog Band $30.pp (age 21& up) includes a specialty glass & map of participating businesses.Glasses are limited pre-registration is recommendedOnline registration opens on April 3rduse the QR code in the flyer to register or call203-312-5633With your paid glass, visit the businesses listed on your map for a sample of their complimentaryofferings. Glasses are limited for this event and may sell out! Walk-in on May 3rd glasses are: $35.pp Pick up your glass & map at New Fairfield Town Hall, 4 Brush Hill Rd. between 4 & 6 pm.

Apr 08, 2025

Danbury’s Musicals at Richter Announces Auditions

Musicals at Richter (MAR), the longest-running outdoor theater in Connecticut now in its 41st season, will hold 2025 season open auditions for high school (16 and up), college and adult performers Thursday, April 10 (MAR alumni by appointment only), Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13, at the Ridgefield Theater Barn, 37 Halpin Lane, in Ridgefield. A separate audition session for younger performers (ages 8-15) will be held on Saturday morning, April 13 at the same location. The main stage season kicks off with “Evita” (July 5-19), Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s blockbuster musical about the meteoric rise of Argentina’s Eva Peron. Set in Argentina between 1934-1952, the Tony-winning musical follows Eva Duarte on her journey from poor illegitimate child to ambitious actress to, as wife of military leader-turned-president Juan Peron, the most powerful woman in Latin America, before her death from cancer at age 33. The score combines Latin, jazz, pop and more traditional influences and features such memorable songs as “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Oh What a Circus,” “Buenos Aires” and “Another Suitcase in Another Hall.” The show is directed for MAR by Donald Birely, with music direction by Andrew Gadwah and choreography by Matthew Farina. The second show of the season is “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” (July 25-August 9). Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, “The Little Mermaid” is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World." David Halliwell helms the production for MAR, joined by music director Fiona Bryson and choreographer Melissa Arizzi. For younger audiences, MAR’s popular Fairy Tale Theater series, now in its 24th year, offers theater performed for young people by young people. The hour-long interactive shows, adapted from classic children’s tales from around the world, are written and directed by veteran performer, director and MAR board member Rob Mayette, and performed by a youth ensemble. Performances take place on the Richter grounds consecutive Saturday mornings July 12 through August 2. The 2025 Fairy Tale Theater season includes “Cinderella,” “Hansel and Gretel” and “The Wizard of Oz,” among other engaging stories. Open auditions for high school (16 and up), college and adult performers will be held at Ridgefield Theater Barn, 37 Halpin Lane, in Ridgefield for both “Evita” and “The Little Mermaid” on Saturday, April 12 from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM and Sunday, April 13 from 11 AM to 3 PM. Auditions for MAR alumni only will be held on Thursday, April 10 from 7 PM to 10 PM, also at Ridgefield Theater Barn. Appointments for the alumni night may be made on SignUp Genius by visiting <a href="https://tinyurl.com/26z5hh8e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://tinyurl.com/26z5hh8e</a>. Separate auditions for young performers ages 8-15 will be held Saturday, April 12 from 10 AM to 12 PM (sign-ups begin at 9:30 AM) at Ridgefield Theater Barn. Children must attend this Saturday call if they wish to be considered for “Evita” “The Little Mermaid” or Fairy Tale Theater casting. At this call, casting will be considered for the youth ensemble in “Evita,” the role of Flounder, youth ensemble mermen/mermaids and sea creatures in “The Little Mermaid,” and for roles in the Fairy Tale Theater troupe.  For “Evita” and “LIttle Mermaid,” young performers will learn a song in groups at 10 AM and then individually sing the song. Those auditioning for Flounder (ages 12-15) should prepare a Disney song (not from “The Little Mermaid”). The selection should be no more than one minute in length and depending on time, you may be asked for 32 bars. For Fairy Tale Theater, auditioners will review a brief monologue upon arrival to read and perform. Auditioners will also perform a scene with other actors from provided sides. Although Fairy Tale Theater does not require any solo singing, music may be incorporated into the shows; if interested, auditioners may also sing a short song if they like. Other opportunities for young and aspiring performers (ages 8-15) are available through Musicals at Richter’s tuition-based four-week Summer Youth Theater Workshop program. The Workshop runs July 21 through August 15 and culminates in public performances August 14, 15 and 16. This year the Workshop will present “Beetlejuice Jr.” For further details and registration for the Workshop program, visit <a href="http://www.musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">www.musicalsatrichter.org</a>. All those auditioning for the mainstage shows or Fairy Tale Theater should visit the MAR website (<a href="https://www.musicalsatrichter.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">musicalsatrichter.org</a>) to review the 2025 MAR Guidelines, Actor Contract and potential rehearsal schedule. Auditioners MUST complete BOTH the Online Audition Form AND the Printable Audition Form. Please bring one PRINTED COPY of the Printable Audition Form to the auditions, a picture/headshot and resume (stapled) if you have them, and your list of potential conflict dates from May up to the performance dates. Those adults (age 16 and up) auditioning for “Evita” and/or “The LIttle Mermaid” should prepare selections, one ballad and one uptempo, from musical theater that reflects the style of the show and shows their range. For complete information on audition guidelines, visit the MAR website (musicalsatrichter.org). Selections should be no more than one minute in length, and depending on time, you may be asked to perform only a 32-bar cut. Please have the sheet music in your key in a binder for the accompanist with your audition cuts clearly marked. Note that an accompanist will be provided; please, no recorded accompaniment or a cappella singing. Auditioners should also be prepared to learn a short dance combination and/or read from the script if asked. All ethnicities are encouraged to attend and all roles are open. Please note that positions are unpaid and housing is not available. Show and character descriptions, as well as all audition details, can be found on the theater website, <a href="http://www.musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">musicalsatrichter.org</a>. If you are unable to attend any of these auditions, please e-mail <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">info@musicalsatrichter.org</a>. Callbacks will take place as needed on Sunday, April 13 from 3 PM to 5 PM. “Evita” is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals (concordtheatricals.com) and “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” is presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International (mtishows.com). In addition to performers, Musicals at Richter seeks volunteers from the area for backstage duties such as set construction, set painting, properties, technical (lights/sound) and running crew, along with front-of-house operations such as ushering and concessions. Several positions offer a stipend. There are also internships available for credit or service hours. Interested individuals are invited to email the theater at <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">info@musicalsatrichter.org.</a>For further information about Musicals at Richter, its season, and volunteer opportunities, please e-mail <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">info@musicalsatrichter.org</a>.

Mar 28, 2025

Ronald McDonald House Unveils New Office Space by 7B Design

The Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley (RMHGHV) unveiled a beautifully transformed office space designed and executed by 7B Design, with support from leading brands and the design community. The project was made possible through a partnership facilitated by Do Some Good, a communications firm that builds impactful collaborations between nonprofits and brands. In a remarkable display of community collaboration, Judith Heimowitz, founder of residential interior design firm 7B Design, led the transformation of an underutilized exercise room into a serene, functional office for staff. Leveraging her extensive industry network, Judith brought together marquee furnishing brands like California Closets, Stark Carpet, Arteriors Home, Kanter’s Carpet & Home, and Precision Build Solutions to create a space that blends beauty and purpose. This new office reflects both the Ronald McDonald House’s mission and 7B Design's core values.RMHGHV, located just steps away from the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, provides a home away from home for families of sick children. When families face medical challenges the House offers an atmosphere of comfort, hope and courage, keeping them close to the care and resources they need. The House has 12 bedrooms that are filled to capacity almost every night and provides meals, laundry and respite services for families during their stay.Based in Westchester County, 7B Design is known for its expertise in modern luxury that enhances everyday living. While Judith specializes in high-end residential projects, her passion for design extends beyond private spaces. "I always take on a philanthropic or pro bono project. There are countless ways that design expertise can be an asset to those in need," Judith shared. "The Ronald McDonald House staff works so hard to create a comfortable environment for their guests while they're dealing with life's most difficult challenges. Having the opportunity to contribute to a place that does so much good is something I’ll always be proud of.”Photo Credit: Nick Carter Photography