The end of summer doesn’t mean the end of time spent on the water! Enjoy the crisp fall air with The Maritime Aquarium, The Norwalk Seaport Association and Two Roads Brewing Company aboard an Ok2berfest cruise on Oct. 7, 21, or 28. 

Passengers will receive a souvenir tasting glass and have the opportunity to sample Two Roads Brewing Company’s Ok2berfest, a Märzan style lager; Roadsmary’s Baby, a pumpkin ale aged in rum barrels; Daybreaker Tropical Punch, a craft cocktail; and H2ROADS Meyer Lemon Craft Hard Seltzer. 

The cruises will also feature German-inspired small bites and distant views of the Norwalk Island foliage.

Cruises depart from The Norwalk Seaport Association’s dock, located at 4 North Water St., at 4 p.m. and last for approximately 90 minutes. Passengers must be over 21 years old and show valid ID at the dock. 

To purchase tickets, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.

Norwalk, CT - Enjoy an immersive indoor experience for kids with the chance to meet Cinderella, Rumplestilkin, Hansel and Gretel and more! Hosted by The Norwalk Conservatory, the event offers kids the opportunity to meet fun characters and participate in interactive challenges! Designed for kids 10 and under, the experience includes live actors and goofy creatures, bewitching tricks, some challenging tasks and the chance to make some new friends along the way.

The Not So Scary Scavenger Hunt takes place at The SoNo Collection in South Norwalk. The hunt takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. A parent or guardian must accompany children at no charge. Complete the scavenger hunt to win a delectable prize!

The Not So Scary Scavenger Hunt is part of the larger fundraising efforts of The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts. All proceeds go towards a student scholarship fund to attend college and study the arts.

MEMBERSHIP: Support the arts and help send students to college. Membership is TAX DEDUCTIBLE. With membership, feel free to come anytime and go through the scavenger hunt as many times as you'd like. Skip the check in line. Enjoy unlimited Coca Cola beverages, water, kids juices, and popcorn. Entry for up to 3 children included.

VIP TICKET: Upgraded large prize for completing the hunt! Skip the check in line! Please note: Wait times may be up to 5 minutes.

STANDARD TICKET: Standard prize for completing the hunt! Please note: Wait times may be up to 20 minutes.

Interested in some great tag sale finds? Want to purchase some tasty baked goods?

Visit Norwalk Community Health Center’s Bake and Tag Sale Sat., Sept. 30 between 9 a.m. and noon. Each purchase helps us fund NCHC’s Farmers Market, so we can continue to offer fresh produce to the community.

For more information, see the attached flyer or visit https://norwalkchc.org/event/community-tag-bake-sale/

Join The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts for Scary Tales, The Brothers Grimm, a haunted house experience. This live walk-through maze of spine-chilling, bone-tingling fun, screams, and laughter tells the Scary Tales of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel & Gretel, and many more of those stories and creepy characters from our childhood that spurred our imagination and caused us sleepless nights. The Scary Tales experience features 50+ live actors, live entertainment, a themed bar, and enough thrills to last the entire Halloween season!

This spirited haunted house is being produced for the third year. The house of horrors is constructed on Parking Level 1.5 at The SoNo Collection, Norwalk, Connecticut's premier retail, lifestyle, and event space. Upon entering Scary Tales, thrill-seekers are greeted with a themed bar serving beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Live music performed by Norwalk Conservatory talent adds to the party atmosphere and the (nervous) energy that is palpable while the audience awaits to be summoned by The Brothers Grimm host. The haunted house is a 30-minute experience wrapped in dark and winding paths, macabre sounds, dastardly villains, and surprises around every turn.

Norwalk Fright Nights and The Brothers Grimm are part of the larger fundraising efforts of The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts. All proceeds go towards a student scholarship fund to attend the college and study the performing arts.

*Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult (strictly enforced). Parents are urged to use their best judgment if bringing younger children.

Dates:

Friday-Sunday, Oct 13-14, 7-9:30 PM

Friday-Sunday, Oct 20-22, 7-10 PM

Thursday, Oct 26, 7-10 PM

Friday-Saturday, Oct 27-28, 7-10:30 PM

Sunday, Oct 29, 7-9:30 PM

Tuesday, Oct 31 (Halloween Night), 7-9:30 PM

https://bit.ly/scarytalesct (non-refundable)

STANDARD TICKETS: $25 LIMITED VIP TICKETS AVAILABLE: $40 Skip the line and enjoy a complimentary soft drink or alcoholic beverage. Please note that wait times may range from 5-10 minutes even with a skip-the-line pass.

SPONSOR TICKETS: Support the arts and help send students to college. This ticket option is TAX DEDUCTIBLE. Sponsors are listed at the event and on all digital/social media platforms. Sponsor Benefits: skip-the-line access (for 4 adults), go through the haunted house up to three times a night and enjoy your first cocktail for free (plus unlimited Coca-Cola beverages, water, and snacks).

NORWALK, CT — “Being is a constant, creative act.” That’s how artist Carlos RM described the newest exhibition at The Norwalk Art Space, “A Journey Through the Planes of Being". This new exhibition, which opened on September 14, takes audience members through the phases of being—from the big questions we all have to how our state of being compels people to become artists, creatives and so much more. 

The exhibition features artist Carlos RM, who is a Korry Fellow at TNAS, as well as three contributing artists: Jon Blank, a native Norwalker currently in Brooklyn, Alex Rane from Carrara, Italy; and Diana R. of Miami, Florida.

Members of the public are invited to a reception celebrating the exhibition on Saturday, September 30, starting at 6 p.m. The reception will feature a performance from the East Coast Contemporary Ballet at 7 p.m., along with performances from INTEMPO, a partner of TNAS, throughout the night.

For the Whole Family

There are so many free shows taking place throughout the day at various locations that are perfect for the entire family, and best of all, they are included with the price of the ticket. These shows take place throughout the day at various times so festgoers never miss a performance, or can see their favorite act as many times as they like!

New this year is the WOW Water Circus that will take festival guests on a fanciful and whimsical journey above and below the water as performers take a deep dive for adventure and fun under the high seas! See intrepid aerialists perform daring feats, cheer on castaway pirate clowns, and watch mermaids as they tumble with the surf exploring the vast beauty of the ocean. Among the many daring feats of this aquatic spectacular is the daring high-speed Jet Ski aerial act that is as unique as it is thrilling.

If you are an animal lover, you won’t want to miss the new show, Canines in the Clouds. Part of this show’s charm is the heartwarming story about the journey of these talented canines from shelter to stardom, and their new life of pampering and excitement. This diverse cast of canine athletes performs high-energy gravity-defying stunts that are unique to this show and sure to dazzle you.

Another new opportunity with paid admission to the Norwalk Oyster Festival is a free tour of the 129-foot Amistad Schooner that will be docked at Veterans Park. This fascinating tour highlights the story of the Amistad beginning in Africa, and the rebellion on board, the impact of its legacy, and its relevance to Connecticut’s history.

If you are a fan of Renaissance Fairs don’t miss your chance to see a medieval fighting troupe that specializes in scripted and unscripted demonstrations. Step back in time and experience the magic as you watch knights in armor sparring, and, afterward, explore a mini Medieval Village. This experience is perfect for fair maidens on a quest and brave knights looking for action! Don’t miss the chance to learn about elves and fairies, kings and queens, and life in the 16^th century.

And, don’t forget to explore our midway, there is always something around the next corner that amazes and delights.

Music on the Built Ford Proud Stage

This year, the “Built Ford Proud Main Stage” offers a diverse line-up of some of the biggest names around. These performances are always hotly anticipated and a highlight of the festival. So, get ready to party 1980s style on Friday, September 8, with Mullett on at 8:30 p.m. Mullett is known nationwide as one of the most authentic 80s tribute bands in the nation. Pimpinella, opens for Mullett and will get the party started at 7 p.m. with their special blend of timeless 70s classic rock hits, Funk, Disco, Soul, and R&B.

On Saturday, September 9, Gary LeVox, lead singer of the iconic country group, Rascal Flatts, takes the Build Ford Proud Stage at 8 p.m. Founded in 2000 Rascal Flatts scored 17 No. 1 hits, sold more than 23 million albums, and won 40+ award-show trophies, making them the most awarded country group of the last decade. LeVox is known for having one of country music’s most distinctive voices that is a pure joy to listen to. He will be performing the chart toppers and well-known hits of Rascal Flatts as well as some of his new music. Singer/songwriter, J.D. Leonard from Nashville is opening for LeVox on Saturday at 6 p.m. He’s written singles for the likes of Bonnie Tyler and placed a number of his songs in over a dozen films.

Sunday’s musical extravaganza begins @ 3 p.m. with BadBoy, which will get the crowd energized with their rock and country hits. The final concert of the 45^th annual Oyster Festival ends on a high note at 5 p.m. with the legendary East Coast Rock ‘n’ Roll group, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band. The band is well known for their performance “On the Dark Side,” from the motion picture Eddie and the Cruisers, which is celebrating its 30^th anniversary this year. This band puts on a fantastic show that is sure to get people up and dancing, which is the perfect way to end the 45^th  annual Oyster Festival.

Music @ the Entertainment Tent

One of the highlights of the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the music performed on multiple stages throughout this three-day event. The Entertainment Tent sponsored by Abbey Tent has live non-stop music all weekend long performed by some of your favorite regional bands. This area is a musical celebration of rock, jazz, hip-hop, Latin, and countless other genres. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax or surrender to the beats and riffs, the Entertainment Tent is not to be missed.

For the Foodies

If you come to the Norwalk Oyster Festival for the music, you will stay for the food! Foodies rejoice at the fest’s unique offerings from Mexico, Columbia, Greece, Jamaica, and Italy to good old New England lobsters, and oysters, of course! Whether you are craving a salty or savory meal, a sugary treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, or an afternoon or evening snack, you’ll find it here. And, if you work up a thirst there are plenty of choices from soft and exotic fruit drinks, to our popular craft beer tent offering more than forty beers.

Arts and Crafts Galore

If you like to shop, head to the Arts and Crafts area where 80+ fine artists and crafters display whimsical as well as practical items that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and ages. Jewelry, paintings, pottery, sculpture, clothing, home décor, and wearable art are just some of the treasures to be found. At the Seaport Tent, learn about Norwalk’s oyster history, Sheffield Island Lighthouse, and browse specialty items celebrating the island and lighthouse.

Where - The Norwalk Oyster Festival is held at Veteran’s Park, adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT.

Admission- Adults $15, Seniors (65+) - $10, Children 6 - 12 - $5 (Free on Sunday with paid adult), and Children under 5 are free. To avoid the wait, tickets can be purchased online at http://www.seaport.org.

Ride Wrist Bands- Discounted ride wristbands are available Saturday and Sunday for $30 for unlimited rides.

Hours- Friday, Sept. 8, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 9, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 10 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Parking & Shuttles

Free parking and shuttle buses are available at these locations:

9/8 – Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach 5:30– 11:30 p.m.

9/9 - Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

9/10 - Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Fee Parking

Webster and Haviland Street parking lot, and the Maritime and Iron Works Garages. All are within walking distance of the festival.

About First County Bank

First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, CT for over 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 14 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $2.0 billion, and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces 2020-2022 award. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse; its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org or call (203) 838-9444.

Music Theatre of Connecticut MainStage, Fairfield County's professional award-winning theatre company opens its 37th MainStage Season with the Tony Award-winning musical, Jersey Boys, the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. 

Jersey Boys ran on Broadway from 2005 to 2014 and is now coming to Norwalk with hit songs you know and love, including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You.” Jersey Boys will run three weekends from September 15th – October 1st, 2023 with performances on Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm, and Saturdays & Sundays at 2pm.

Jersey Boys chronicles the Four Seasons' life story—their meteoric rise, the trials that tested their bonds, and the ultimate triumph that turned their melodies into anthems for a generation. This multi-award winning musical gets to the heart of the relationships at the center of the group—with a special focus on front man Frankie Valli, the small kid with the big falsetto.

The group faces a multitude of challenges including gambling debts, Mafia threats, family disasters and growing up. Jersey Boys is a glimpse at the people behind a sound that has managed to endure for over four decades in the hearts of the public. This electrifying show includes chart-topping hits which brought The Four Seasons the highest honor: induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

MTC's 37th MainStage Season is sponsored by Circle Care Center, The Burry Fredrik Foundation, and The Schnurmacher Foundation

Calling all passionate creatives between the ages of 13-17 who are eager to merge their artistic interests with their desire for social change.

Whether you are an emerging artist, an activist at heart, or simply curious about the power of creative expression, this FREE workshop is for you. Join us for a 2-day experience where we foster an inclusive space and inspire one another to make a difference through the power of art. In this collaborative setting, participants will have the opportunity to work in groups, drawing inspiration from influential artists who have used their creativity to ignite movements and challenge the status quo.

Don't miss this chance to unleash your artistic voice and make a meaningful impact within your community. Workshop offered jointly with LiveGirl. Facilitators: Tara Blackwell & Lila Malone. 6 spots available. Registration required through TNAS website

Learn more => https://www.thenorwalkartspace.org/book-online

Workshop starts from Sept 9 through Sept 10 at 10am - 12:45pm 

The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts is excited to present the third annual Broadway Concert Series, this year at a new location!

Broadway at the Mall will be held on Saturday, August 26 2023, with two shows at 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM at the Sono Collection Rooftop. Relax and enjoy live performances of Broadway classics with your friends and family. Food and beverages will be on site and you can expect pop-up surprises for interested families with younger fans. Gates will open at 1:00 PM where you can watch other local groups perform on our stage, grab a bite to eat, and make memories that will last a lifetime. No outside food or drink will be permitted.

Parking will be provided at the SoNo Collection.

NoCo's mission focuses on bringing live theater and Broadway performances to the venues it owns and operates, as well as building a new non-profit performing arts college in South Norwalk, CT. With a faculty consisting of a plethora of the biggest and most prolific Broadway artists and creatives in the industry, The Norwalk Conservatory of Arts will bring elite performing arts training to both their college programs as well as the Fairfield County community at large.

Ticket Options:

Sponsored Ticket: One ticket is for two adults and up to three children. You will receive priority seating on the front lawn and priority check-in, a large blanket, unlimited drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) in a commemorative cup, All Access ID badges, a meet and greet with the cast, and you will be included in the Broadway in the Park Concert.

All Access Ticket: All Access tickets will receive priority seating on the front lawn and priority check-in, unlimited drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) in a commemorative cup, All Access ID badges, and a meet and greet with the cast.

VIP Ticket: VIP Tickets include priority seating on the front lawn, priority check-in, and a free drink in a commemorative cup.

Any questions? Please email a team member at info@thenorwalkconservatory.org or give our Admissions team a call at (203) 343-0387

Norwalk, CT - This year, Norwalk Oyster Festival organizers have planned a number of new and exciting events that will provide an experience like no other on Friday, September 8; Saturday, September 9; and Sunday, September 10, at the 35-acre Veterans Memorial Park in Norwalk. Tickets are on sale now online at seaport.org and will be available at the gate during the event.

Music and entertainment make people happy with the added benefit of making memories that last a lifetime. And, making folks happy is what this festival is all about, according to Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Seaport Association and Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. “The Norwalk Oyster Festival, now in its 45^th year is the last big event that takes place before the end of the summer. It’s a great family fun event that won’t break the bank because all the entertainment is included with the price of the ticket! To make it more affordable for families, we offer discounted ride wristbands on Saturday and Sunday, and best of all, kids under 12 get in free on Sunday. It’s our way of giving back to all our supporters," said Reilly. “The Festival is very important to the Seaport Association because it is our major fundraiser for Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s Maritime Icon,” Reilly said. "We couldn’t put this festival together without the support of our many sponsors including our Presenting Sponsor First County Bank and Ford, for our 'Built Ford Proud' Stage", Reilly concluded.

Entertainment Lineup at the "Built Ford Proud" Stage

Attending the Norwalk Oyster Festival is a lot more than music – it’s the atmosphere, the culture and the people all experiencing something live that you can’t stream! It’s a way to spend time with friends and loved ones, enjoy delicious food, shop and see world-class entertainment as well as both world-famous and emerging musicians.

Get ready to party 1980s style on Friday, September 8, with Mullett on the Built Ford Proud Stage at 8:30 p.m. Mullett is known nationwide as one of the most authentic tribute bands around. This is going to be a fun show, and one not to be missed. For more than a decade, Mullett has been wowing audiences by delivering the best of the 1980s in Big Hair and amazing renditions of 80s favorites. This is the closest you get to classic Van Halen, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Journey, Poison and countless others… proving that the 80s live on forever! Rocking out to Mullett is sure to bring you back in time!

Pimpinella opens for Mullett and will get the party started at 7 p.m. with their special blend of timeless 70s classic rock hits, Funk, Disco, Soul and R&B.

On Saturday, September 9, Gary LeVox, lead singer of the iconic country group Rascal Flatts takes the Build Ford Proud Stage at 8 p.m. Founded in 2000, Rascal Flatts scored 17 No. 1 hits, sold more than 23 million albums and won 40+ award-show trophies, making them the most awarded country group of the last decade. “We are so excited to bring Gary LeVox, a world-class entertainer, to the site to help us celebrate our 45^th annual Festival,” said Reilly. “Mr. Levox’s award-winning songs and legendary voice promise guests a show with all the hits that people love from Rascal Flatts plus some new stuff that they haven’t heard yet, making this performance one they will remember for years,” Reilly continued.

LeVox is known for having one of country music’s most distinctive voices that is pure joy to listen to. LeVox will be performing the chart toppers and well-known hits of Rascal Flatts as well as some of his new music. As the frontman in one of the most influential groups in country history, LeVox knows how to entertain. The Oyster Festival offers an intimate setting that makes interaction with the audience easy and fun and LeVox never disappoints with songs that everybody can relate to. LeVox is one of country music’s greatest vocalists, so Saturday night’s audience better get ready to saddle up for an unforgettable good time.

Singer/Songwriter J.D. Leonard, who hails from Nashville, Tennessee, is opening for LeVox on Saturday at 6 p.m. He’s written singles for the likes of Bonnie Tyler and placed a number of songs in over a dozen films. This band has shared the stage with Tyler Farr, Michael McDonald, Blues Traveler and Edgar Winter, to name a few.

Sunday’s musical extravaganza begins at 3 p.m. with BadBoy, which will get the crowd up and dancing with their rock and country hits. The final concert of the 45^th annual Oyster Festival ends on a high note with the legendary East Coast Rock ‘n’ Roll group John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band. They will take the Built Ford Proud Stage at 5 p.m. The band is well known for their performance “On the Dark Side” from the motion picture "Eddie and the Cruisers", which is celebrating its 30^thanniversary this year. “On the Dark Side” landed in the Billboard Top 10 and was the No. 1 tune on the Album Rock Charts for five weeks. The album sold over three million copies and was certified Triple Platinum by the RIAA. “Tough All Over”, “Hearts on Fire” from the Rocky IV movie and "C-I-T-Y" are among the band’s mega hits. The group puts on a fantastic show that is sure to get people energized.

Two New Entertainment Acts

To pump up the fun, Norwalk Oyster Festival organizers have added two new shows that are sure to amaze. These shows are perfect for the entire family.

The WOW Water Circus will take you on a fanciful and whimsical journey above and below the surface with their maritime merriment! Among the many daring feats of this aquatic spectacular is the daring high-speed Jet Ski aerial act that is as unique as it is thrilling.

If you are an animal lover, you won’t want to miss Canines in the Clouds. This is a heartwarming story about a journey from a shelter to stardom! This diverse cast of canine athletes that perform high-energy, gravity-defying stunts that are unique to this show, will dazzle you. A special highlight is a meet-and-greet with these magnificent dogs after the show.

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival

Now in its 45^th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for its music, wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides and the New England Craft Village.

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will hold, Get in the Groove! The Mansion’s 1960s Gala, on Oct. 14, 2023, 7 p.m., at the Shorehaven Golf Club, 14 Canfield Avenue, Norwalk, CT.

This 1960s-inspired event will celebrate a tumultuous yet celebratory era for the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion, which opened to the public for the first time in 1966 to later become a National Historic Landmark and award-winning institution. Tickets for the event are $300 with all proceeds to benefit the Museum’s educational and cultural programs.

The Mansion’s Gala, Get in the Groove! is co-chaired by LMMM Trustees Kathy Olsen, Kathleen Custis and Gary Lorusso. Ms.Olsen said: “This year’s event will highlight the staying power and significance of the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, one of the region’s most cherished and sought-after destinations, with a fun and exciting retro 60s look to a pivotal era for this institution.”

This event will feature special presentations, a D.J., 1960s music and dancing, a live auction, dinner at one of the most beautiful clubs on the Gold Coast, and more. Attendees should plan to wear vintage glamor, 60s era-inspired attires, or black-tie optional.

The Museum’s 2023 Gala will be generously sponsored in part by Gala Media Sponsor: CTC&G; Gala Graphic Design Sponsor: Miggs B Design; Gala Leader’s Circle: Fairfield County Bank, Gala Benefactors: David Scott Parker Architects,Gala Sustainers: Spinnaker Real Estate Partners LLC, Consigli; Seaman Construction Inc., Kim and Georgetta Morque,and Gary and Loretta Lorusso. The 2023 Season is made possible by CT Humanities with generous funding provided by Connecticut State Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) from the Connecticut State Legislature; LMMM’s Founding Patrons: The Estate of Mrs. Cynthia Clark Brown; LMMM’s Leadership Patrons: The Sealark Foundation; LMMM’s 2023 Season Distinguished Benefactors: The City of Norwalk, The Maurice Goodman Foundation, and Lockwood-Mathews Foundation Inc.

For more information on the Gala, please visit www.lockwoodmathewsmansion.com.

On Thurs. Sept. 14, 2023, 6-8 p.m., The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will feature architect and author Phillip James Dodd for an illustrated talk and book signing of his new release titled, “An American Renaissance: Beaux-Arts Architecture in New York City.”

This book, which has been painstakingly researched and beautifully photographed over many years, takes a close look at twenty of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in New York City. While showing public exteriors, its main focus is on the lavish interiors associated with the opulence of the Gilded Age – often providing a glimpse inside buildings not otherwise viewable to the public. The book’s foreword is by Julian Fellowes, English actor, novelist, film director, and screenwriter also known as the creator of the historical drama, “Downton Abbey,” among others.

LMMM Trustee and Lecture Chair Kathy Olsen said, “As architecture reached for the stars during the Gilded Age, Mr. Dodd will take us inside some of New York City’s greatest landmarks through spectacular photography and a brilliant architect’s mind.”

Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Phillip James Dodd is an alumnus of the prestigious Prince of Wales’ Institute of Architecturein London. He moved to America more than twenty years ago, and after training with some of the most recognized classical architecture firms in the country founded his eponymous design firm, Phillip James Dodd: Bespoke Residential Design, LLC, in 2015. Phillip’s designs can be found in New York, Greenwich, Palm Beach, and as far away as Bangalore, India. In 2022, he was the recipient of the Elizabeth L. and John H. Schuler Architectural Award and was named one of the Top 50 Coastal Architects by Ocean Home magazine.

Phillip has a Master of Architecture from the University of Notre Dame, and an undergraduate Degree in Architecture from the Manchester School of Architecture. He is a Fellow Emeritus of The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art and serves as a commissioner on The Town of Greenwich Historic District Commission. In 2013, Phillip was elected by his peers as an Honorary Fellow of the INTBAU College of Traditional Practitioners, an invited international body for practitioners in traditional architecture, under the auspices of H.R.H. The Prince of Wales.

Light refreshments will be offered following the presentation as well as a special drawing for a complimentary tour led by Dodd of the Woodlawn Cemetery. Woodlawn is the resting place of the Mathews, among other notable families. This lecture will be held at the Norwalk Public Library, 1 Belden Avenue, CT. To reserve tickets, attendees can visit the Events page on the Museum’s website at www.lockwoodmathewsmansion.com. Admission is $15 for LMMM members, $20 for non-members.

LMMM’s 2023 programs are made possible in part by CT Humanities with generous funding provided by Connecticut State Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) from the Connecticut State Legislature; LMMM’s Founding Patrons: The Estate of Mrs. Cynthia Clark Brown;LMMM’s Leadership Patrons: The Sealark Foundation; and LMMM’s 2023 Season Distinguished Benefactors: The City of Norwalk, The Maurice Goodman Foundation, and Lockwood-Mathews Foundation, Inc.

For more information on tours and programs, please visit www.lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, email info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, or call 203-838-9799.