Stories
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC BUZZ Weekend February 21-23</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</span></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/bevs-bites" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Bevs & Bites</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Museum & Nature Center, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>The biggest and most anticipated BevMax Tasting Series event of the year, our signature "feast on foot" is an epicurean exploration featuring unlimited tastings of incredible food and drink.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/moca-some-noise-open-mic-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic Night</strong></a></p><p><strong>MoCA CT, Westport</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>Join us for an Open Mic night at MoCA CT featuring acoustic music, poetry, and slam poetry. Everyone is invited to participate and attend.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/vallenatazo-del-amor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Vallenatazo del Amor</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>José Cruz Productions invites you to a unique event, full of the energy, passion and rhythm of vallenato on a spectacular night. It will be an event that you cannot miss. Get ready to enjoy a musical party for the whole family!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/north-county-band-brian-dolzani-band-at-park-city-music-hall" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>North County Band & Brian Dolzani Band</strong></a></p><p><strong>Park City Music Hall, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm</p><p>North County Band is the creative culmination of Chicago-born singer-songwriter Scott Smith and Texas fiddle sensation, Cat Lines. Together they summoned some of Connecticut's most seasoned and versatile musicians to compliment their songwriting craft & musical prowess and to deliver a unique signature sound. Their debut EP, "Connecticut", is widely regarded as a grass-roots collaborative effort with songs about the Nutmeg State, isolation, challenges of the modern era, and family. </p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/man-of-la-mancha-4d700" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Man of La Mancha</strong></a></p><p><strong>Crystal Theatre at Ben Franklin Community Center, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 21, 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm</p><p>Experience Don Quixote's "Impossible Dream" of a better world lived through the imagination in Man of La Mancha, which features a book by Dale Wasserman, music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion, and is adapted from Wasserman’s 1959 teleplay I, Don Quixote. This in turn was inspired by Miguel de Cervantes and his 17th-century classic Don Quixote.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/soundwaves-concert-the-music-of-sir-edward-elgar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Soundwaves Concert: The Music of Sir Edward Elgar</strong></a></p><p><strong>Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>Renowned violinist Katie Lansdale and acclaimed pianist Alan Murchie will trace the musical journey of the British Romantic composer as they perform various of his works for violin and piano. There will be refreshments and a chance to meet the musicians after the performance. Generously sponsored by The Friends of Fairfield Public Library.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/original-ancestors-with-craig-kelly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Original Ancestors with Craig Kelly</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bridgeport Public Library, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm</p><p>Bridgeport resident Craig Kelly gives a special presentation on the Mafaa (Swahili for "Great Disaster"), the Holocaust of Slavery and Genocide, and the unknown contributions of Africans and African Americans to the US and the world at large Kelly will also display and explain several artifacts related to African American History from his personal collection.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/american-chamber-orchestra-s-winter-concert-february-22-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>American Chamber Orchestra's Winter Concert</strong></a></p><p><strong>Norwalk Concert Hall, Norwalk</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm</p><p>Come in out of the cold and warm up with our exciting partnership with The Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut as we present Antonin Dvorak's Te Deum and John Rutter's Requiem. Schubert's Symphony No. 8 is also on the program.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/hansel-and-gretel-cc07e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Hansel and Gretel</strong></a></p><p><strong>Downtown Cabaret Theatre, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 22, 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm</p><p>Get ready to embark on a deliciously delightful adventure as we journey into the enchanted world of Hansel & Gretel at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre! Join Hansel and Gretel, the brave brother and sister duo, as they venture into the mysterious woods and stumble upon a house made entirely of gingerbread—yes, you heard right, gingerbread! But beware, because lurking within is a tricky witch with a sweet tooth and a mischievous plan. Will Hansel & Gretel outsmart the witch and find their way back home?</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/the-brian-torff-group-a-tribute-to-black-music" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>The Brian Torff Group: A Tribute to Black Music</strong></a></p><p><strong>Wilton LIbrary, Wilton</strong></p><p>Sunday Feb 23, 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm</p><p>Join Wilton Library for a live musical celebration of Black History Month with The Brian Torff Group, a collective dedicated to revitalizing the essence of American music. In a program that blends original songs with classic Delta Blues, it will highlight the profound impact of Black music on American culture. Torff's engaging on-stage stories draw from his extensive research on music and race in the Deep South, emphasizing the critical role of Black Music in Blues, Jazz, Country, Rock and Pop. The group will play new interpretations of classic artists such as Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Mose Allison and Elvis Presley.</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>
<h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Does someone you love struggle with a mental health condition?</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is offering its acclaimed Family-to-Family course. This FREE, 8-week course is intended for family members, caregivers and friends of adults (over 18) dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">In this course, you will learn about mental health conditions, their treatments, and their effects on the entire family. You will learn what your loved one is going through, how to communicate better and provide essential support. You will also learn how to cope with your own stress.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">When?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Saturday mornings starting March 15th, 9:30 AM – 12:15 PM through May 17th (except 4/19)</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Where?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">First Congregational Church of Old Greenwich, 108 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich, CT 06870</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Who will teach it?</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Two trained facilitators from the NAMI Southwest CT affiliate, who are themselves family members of a loved one living with mental health condition.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">How do I register?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Please register at:</span><a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/namict.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/family-to-family-registration__;!!IPQn4SWcaw9UPw!Vlnl3C2sGJOpfOdQZF1Jh8m9Ogz4sRJs6mjK1ghnX7Yd2C15LQy4j1iZ1-pdnaiAhKY-PsZ-8wkrj7JqF0g$" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> https://namict.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/family-to-family-registration</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">NAMI thanks the First Congressional Church of Old Greenwich for hosting this course.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots, nonprofit organization for mental illness. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for people with mental health conditions and their families.</span></p><p><br></p>
<h2>Stamford Winter Restaurant Weeks February 17, 2025 - March 2, 2025</h2><p>It’s time to prepare your taste buds & appetites for Restaurant Weeks, the best way to try something new or enjoy an old favorite while supporting our downtown restaurant community!</p><p>Enjoy two weeks of prix-fixe lunch and dinner options at various price points, many available for dine-in and takeout.</p><p>Reservations Suggested. Please refer to individual menus for any restrictions and/or exceptions.</p><p>View participating restaurants and learn more Stamford Downtown's website <a href="https://stamford-downtown.com/event/restaurant-weeks" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://stamford-downtown.com/event/restaurant-weeks/</a></p>
<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">MAYOR’S UPDATES</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Bar Vera Grand Opening: I had the pleasure of joining Chef Charbel Hayek, winner of Top Chef Middle East & North Africa, along with owner Myrna Lahood and her family, to celebrate the grand opening of Bar Vera! This new Mediterranean restaurant brings fresh and vibrant flavors to Stamford. Be sure to visit them at 148 Bedford Street and experience it for yourself!</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">CITY NEWS</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford 2035 Comprehensive Plan Open House: Join us on February 20, 2025, from 4:00-6:30 PM at The First Presbyterian Church (1101 Bedford Street) for a Public Open House and Goal Validation Workshop. Connect with the planning team and your neighbors to help shape Stamford's future. Pre-registration is requested to ensure we’re reaching a representative sample of Stamford residents, so </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Furl.us.m.mimecastprotect.com%2Fs%2FiHIPC684P6hrlEqwfpfBS5C4Wd%3Fdomain=forms.gle/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/BkrKWJbi6UXIelopFCzQC_bOuqtGahsGayx4KZu5hMI=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">save your spot</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> and be part of creating Stamford's future! Please let us know if you require any additional services or auxiliary aid to make your open house experience more effective within the registration form or by emailing Stamford2035@stamfordct.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">February Arts & Culture Guide: The City of Stamford and the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission are excited to announce, “Stamford Spotlight: A Celebration of Arts and Culture.” This guide highlights upcoming arts and cultural events in Stamford. Be sure to stop by and support our local organizations! Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F40628/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/RnBYEaJJUhVu8k-elXWSwwZMBn1aqPSGZjdnDF8F7Ro=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to view the February Guide</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford 2035: The City of Stamford is excited to launch the Stamford 2035 Comprehensive Plan, a once-in-a-decade opportunity to assess the city's current state and explore key questions about our future! This plan will guide Stamford’s development through 2035, focusing on crucial topics like sustainability, resilience, diversity, equity, inclusion, housing, economic growth, mobility, and infrastructure. Throughout the 10-month process, you’ll have the chance to share your vision for Stamford by participating in public meetings, workshops, surveys, and discussions with our planning team. Check out this </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdrive.google.com%2Ffile%2Fd%2F1EdSqWaZ10t0cB9ZkkLqh_PRdHnZTudD5%2Fview%3Fusp=sharing/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/BVCPgmDAEs-s-3o7BUGSnSgbIsdH5dqRzJBt-c63Dk8=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">project one-sheet</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> and visit </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fstamfordct.gov%2Fstamford2035/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/o2P4l-LoRjUYscVEZ2mfkNN-J0kyPzB-cXBC_7NP44c=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">our website</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to get involved, sign up for updates, and learn more about the plan.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Small Business Survey: Are you a small business owner in Stamford? We want to hear from you! Take a moment to complete our quick survey to help us better understand your challenges and explore ways to support your success. Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.surveymonkey.com%2Fr%2FN3BJD5G%3Ffbclid=IwY2xjawIbHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHW0mJkRqdIcXLpBtowA_VAl43a6WqfDp-oPhijYOc05FokrkpKukbzwWlA_aem_beUqrALwQ63dRAYJi1mSqQ/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/raoNFSSMFQEr0-WzSuzPwTTOXdwSIDIElgyO5GQ1sz4=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> to participate.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Lathon Wider Community Center: On the morning of Thursday, January 2, the City Facilities Department was notified of a flooding incident in the basement of the Lathon Wider Community Center (137 Henry Street) caused by a failure in a piece of mechanical equipment. Due to the impact on critical building services, the facility will be closed indefinitely. The target date for reopening is July 1, 2025.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">At this time, the City is working with the impacted tenants to try and accommodate their needs during this transition. For any questions or urgent needs regarding the Health Department’s walk-in health services, please call (203)-977-5652.</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford 2035 Visions of the City Survey: In case you missed Stamford 2035's first open house, please take five minutes to share your thoughts on the Visions of the City </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fforms%2Fd%2Fe%2F1FAIpQLSf43DHq7hoUuhXl0r8Vd3DWOpaeG4Pg6iy9RwZUO3SYsRsmhA%2Fviewform%3Fusp=sharing/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/foHAHBQZGqI0qZzO9JofWV1aGINmNEkU0dZAJ1EbDxA=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">! Your insights will help the planning team formulate visions, goals, strategies, and actions for the future of Stamford.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Stamford Transportation Center Master Plan: Our administration has been meeting with the Connecticut Department of Transportation and city transportation officials to continue to make progress on the Stamford Train Station Master Plan. To view the Stamford Transportation Center Master Plan, visit: </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stcmasterplan.com%2F/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/eWYGIOJKp2aiX5dAkR9YBBnjbeM--lyNY5r2x6gs6Kk=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">stcmasterplan.com</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Paving Update: Click </span><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.stamfordct.gov%2Fgovernment%2Foperations%2Froad-maintenance%2Froad-paving%23!%2F/1/01000195059fb23c-fc0aa460-8ed2-46f7-86ac-a42f36b2c651-000000/zQ1inNaQZusxMoPJdnqL6rZA4QFOc54yfSfZBoD-DXE=392" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">here</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> for the priority list for paving operations established in response to a city-wide road assessment in 2022.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Curb Repair: Request for curb repairs can be submitted under the category "Roads" on Fixit.</span></li></ul>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">FC BUZZ Weekend February 14-15</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(24, 25, 26);">HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</span></p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/opening-reception" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Opening Reception of "INSIDE OUT</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bruce S. Kershner Gallery, Fairfield</strong></p><p>Thursday Feb 13, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm</p><p>Featuring the art of Sergey Stepanenko and Annette Voreyer, the artists will speak at 6:00pm. This exhibition includes a variety of still life and landscape work by Sergey. He paints his feelings and impressions of places in connection with the culture and history within the stream of time. His painting technique is a consistent free style using primarily a palette knife which he says allows him the freedom of movement and freedom from detail to focus on a whole object.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/film-screening-dela-the-making-of-el-anatsui" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>DELA: The Making of El Anatsui</strong></a></p><p><strong>MoCA CT, Westport</strong></p><p>Thursday Feb 13, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>Presented as part of MoCA CT’s collaboration with WestPAC's ON FIRE: Energy, Climate, Infrastructure and our Black History Month event series. This compelling biographical documentary explores the life and work of El Anatsui, one of Africa’s most celebrated sculptors. DELA offers an intimate look into Anatsui’s groundbreaking contributions to contemporary art, his mentorship of a generation of West African artists, and his transformative role in his local community. The film delves into the profound simplicity and complexity of his monumental creations, highlighting his journey of triumphs and trials. The title, "Dela," meaning "Deliverer" in the Ewe language, encapsulates his impact on art and culture.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/afrika-360-the-journey-back-to-myself-poetry-performance" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>AFRIKA 360: The Journey Back to Myself | Poetry Performance</strong></a></p><p><strong>Housatonic Museum of Art, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Thursday Feb 13, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>Celebrate Black History Month with a live performance that incorporates poetry and drumming inspired by Iyaba Ibo Mandingo's journey through South Africa and Nigeria. You won’t want to miss this unique, immersive experience that connects to the current exhibition, Arwe Journey: Twentieth-Century Afri-Caribbean Migration.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/candi-carpenter-zee-machine-kalie-shorr-with-jenna-devries" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Candi Carpenter, Zee Machine, & Kalie Shorr with Jenna DeVries</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Thursday Feb 13, 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Candi Carpenter is a 6,665-year-old extraterrestrial vampire space witch AND recording artist. Candi’s viral brand of confessional existentialism has swept across at least a few corners of the internet and gathered a devoted community of like-minded fans who have helped turn Candi’s shows into fun and inclusive spaces.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/let-s-do-history-douglass-day-celebration-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Let’s Do History! Douglass Day Celebration 2025</strong></a></p><p><strong>Greenwich Historical Society, Greenwich</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 14, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Douglass Day is an annual and nationwide event that gathers individuals, schools, and organizations in collectively creating free and available resources for African American History in honor of Frederick Douglass and his lasting legacy.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/billy-the-showmen" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Billy & The Showmen</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 14, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Established more than fifty years ago by band leader Billy Frenz, Billy and the Showmen has earned their reputation as one of Connecticut's most enduring Rhythm & Blues bands. Billy and the Showmen specialize in hard-driving R&B, Soul, and Funk from the '60's and '70's. The band's repertoire includes the best of James Brown, Rick James, Percy Sledge, the Ohio Players, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Marvin Gaye, Wilson Pickett, Junior Welles, King Floyd, Average White Band, Tower of Power, Buddy Miles, Kool & the Gang, Otis Redding and classic Motown artists such as the Temptations and Sam & Dave.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/blanche-lazzell-becoming-an-american-modernist-8e1e3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Blanche Lazzell: Becoming an American Modernist</strong></a></p><p><strong>Bruce Museum, Greenwich</strong></p><p>Friday Feb 14, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm</p><p>The first monographic exhibition of her work in nearly two decades, Blanche Lazzell: Becoming an American Modernist traces the artist’s pioneering approaches to abstraction in the United States.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/soulful-expressions" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Soulful Expressions</strong></a></p><p><strong>MoCA CT, Westport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 15, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>An evening of poetry by Sahmra Sawyer, music by pianist Joe Bush, dance by Jeffline Saint Louis, and food by Jamaican Chef Dré Sawyers of Food by Mustard Seed Inc. Artist Erika McGhee will do live sketching of visitors, followed by a dance floor open for classics like the Electric Slide, Wobble, and more.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/an-evening-to-celebrate-love" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>An Evening to Celebrate Love</strong></a></p><p><strong>Westport Country Playhouse, Westport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 15, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm</p><p>Take a night to be reminded that love drives this world forward every single day. Playhouse alum Rudolfo Soto (In the Heights, New Works: Bad Accents, Script in Hand: Theatre People), Carrie Lyn Brandon (National Tour of Once) and Michael Wilkins create an evening highlighting music from Once the musical, original songs, and more. Be reminded that love isn’t something we do, it is who we are and what we allow others to be. Bring someone you love or just bring your love of music for this great night kicking off our Barnstormer series in 2025!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/manny-papaleta" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Manny Papaleta</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts, Stamford</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 15, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Manny Cabral a.k.a. “Manny Papeleta” is a Dominican singer, songwriter, and Showman. He is a well known Stand up comedy artist from the Dominican Republic. He is currently performing his latest sold out comedy special show among others.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/a-tribute-to-the-eagles-by-desert-highway-3b589" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>A Tribute to The Eagles: By Desert Highway</strong></a></p><p><strong>Downtown Cabaret Theatre, Bridgeport</strong></p><p>Saturday Feb 15, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Since its formation, Desert Highway Band “A Tribute to the Eagles” continues to captivate & entertain major audiences. They attribute this achievement to performing a non-stop journey via numerous radio hits, top ten singles, and album favorites. Both musically and visually, they present the excitement of a live Eagles concert.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/connecticut-ballet-presents-be-my-valentine" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Connecticut Ballet presents BE MY VALENTINE</strong></a></p><p><strong>Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Stamford</strong></p><p>Sunday Feb 16, 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm</p><p>Connecticut Ballet’s annual BE MY VALENTINE returns to Stamford on February 16th just in time for Valentine's Day! “We want to invite audiences make a day of it to come out, enjoy a variety of dances around the theme of love, have some wine and nibbles, and make a day of it.”</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>
<p>STAMFORD, CT/February 12, 2025 – On Sunday, February 9, well in advance of the “big game,” more than 90 participants braved the snow to jump into the chilly waters of Long Island Sound for SoundWaters’ second annual Super Splash, raising funds and awareness for the organization’s climate science education initiatives. The event was held at Stamford’s Cove Island Park, where a lively crowd gathered to cheer on those who dared to take the plunge. </p><p> Thanks to the enthusiasm of participants, donors and the incredible support from the community, the event raised nearly $10,000. These funds will support SoundWaters’ climate science education programs, helping to engage thousands of local students in joyful learning experiences throughout 2025. Through these programs, students will gain an understanding of climate change, marine science and environmental stewardship in Long Island Sound, their million-acre classroom.</p><p> “It may not have felt like it to the Splashers, but like oceans around the world, the waters of Long Island Sound are warming and it’s changing our local environment,” said Leigh Shemitz, SoundWaters President. “We love this event because it’s a fun way to draw attention to the impact of global warming, bring people together, connect to the Sound and raise some funds to support our educational programs.”</p><p>2025 Super Splash sponsors included Cingari Family ShopRite, Hey Stamford!, STAR 99.9, and Carlson & Carlson Insurance.</p><p>SoundWaters prepares the next generation for their future. With our climate in crisis, we teach tomorrow’s leaders the science they will need. With Long Island Sound as our classroom, we create love and respect for the natural world. As a matter of justice, we open the water to all. As a matter of urgency, we work to protect our common home. For more information, visit <a href="https://soundwaters.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">soundwaters.org</a>.</p>
<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">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</span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> Fiddler on the Roof</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">. 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.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A Story That Hits Close to Home</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“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 </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Fiddler on the Roof</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> is deeply rooted in his family’s history.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“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.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">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.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">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."</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Innovative Vision Meets Timeless Tradition</strong></p><p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Fiddler on the Roof</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> 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.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“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.”</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">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.”</span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Original Choreography with Cultural Roots</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Collaborating 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.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Music That Speaks to the Soul</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Under 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.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">“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.”</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">A Production to Remember</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Set in the small Jewish village of Anatevka in Imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century, </span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Fiddler on the Roof i</em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">s 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.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">ACT of Connecticut’s</span><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;"> Fiddler on the Roof </em><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">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.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Purchase tickets</span><a href="https://www.actofct.org/fiddler-on-the-roof" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;"> https://www.actofct.org/fiddler-on-the-roof</a></p><p><em>*This image was taken during a working rehearsal of Fiddler on the Roof</em></p>