Ridgefield Playhouse Celebrates Jared Shahid at 13th Annual SOLD OUT Summer Fundraiser Featuring the Goo Goo Dolls
RIDGEFIELD, CT, Monday, June 17, 2024 – Ridgefield Playhouse held its 13th Annual Summer Fundraiser featuring the Goo Goo Dolls on Saturday, June 15. Though the primary purpose of the fundraiser is to raise funds that directly support the Playhouse’s mission-driven programming and yearly operating costs, this year’s event transformed into a celebration of Co-Executive Director Jared Shahid.
After five years of dedicated service and commitment to the Playhouse, Shahid announced his departure from the venue on May 6, 2024. To honor Shahid’s achievements during his tenure, Board President Michael Shinall invited First Selectperson Rudy Marconi on stage to present Shahid with a proclamation recognizing his contributions to Ridgefield’s vibrant cultural community. Former Playhouse Executive Director Allison Stockel also took to the stage to dedicate the Playhouse’s outdoor patio to Shahid, naming it the Jared Shahid Outdoor Patio, generously donated by The Stockel Family. Additionally, four-time Tony Award-winning actor, playwright, screenwriter, and gay-rights activist Harvey Fierstein joined to honor and celebrate Shahid’s service to the Playhouse and surrounding communities.
“Working with Jared has been a pleasure and a period of significant growth for our team,” said Ashley Paltauf, Executive Director-elect. “Together, we navigated the challenges of the pandemic, built a strong and dedicated team, enhanced our programming, and achieved the venue’s best year on record. While he will be missed, everyone at the Playhouse is excited to see him excel in his new role as Executive Director of The Innovate, a state-of-the-art venue in Palm Beach. Not only did we have a wonderful send-off for Jared on Saturday, but we also exceeded our goal and raised nearly $200,000! Funds raised from our auction will support our Community Engagement Program.”
PRESENTING SPONSOR: American Metal Whiskey
EVENT SPONSORS: Event VIP, Pep Real Estate, Westchester Automated Gate
INDIVIDUAL SPONSORS: 068 Magazine, Lori & John Berisford, Ann & Steve Carlson, Eileen & Mark Cunningham, Deb & Dan De Clercq, Eric Diefenbach & JK Brown, Glori & Adam Norwitt, Beth & Dan O’Brien, Darlene & Paul Ottolini, Ridgebury Farm & Stables, Patti & Steve Ross, Becky & Matt Sawtelle, Frank Selvaggi & Bill Shea, Lisa & Michael Shinall, The Sondheimer Family
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT BY: Alpha-Lit Letters, Beam Suntory, Bedford New Canaan Magazine, Campari America, Durants Party Rental, Good Hope Farm, Hollandia Nurseries, Inflate CT-NY Party Rentals, LocalInsta, Nod Hill Brewery, Odeen’s Catering, Pepsi, Stacey’s Totally Baked, Sweet Bean Events, Sweet T Cookie Shop, Tauck, Whistlestop Bakery
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Natasha Brahmst, Steve Carlson, Deb De Clercq, Alex Fischetti, Amanda Gabbard, Jenifer Johnson, Erika Lewis, Darlene Ottolini, Rachel Sondheimer, and Katy Zink