Welcome to Ridgefield

Happening at the Ridgefield Guild of Artists from January 18th, 2020 – February 16th, 2020!

We’re starting off 2020 with a new attitude and ask our members to share your “compassion” through your artwork in our first exhibition of the new year. In these times of high anxiety and extreme tribalism, let’s try a little caring and understanding. Consider artwork that speaks to a kinder, gentler world. Let’s get back to that golden rule: treat others as you’d like them to treat you. Join us. Let’s express it through our artwork.

Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor Jeffrey Tambor (“Transparent, “Arrested Development,” “Larry Sanders Show”) brings his podcast live to The Playhouse stage with an interview of Emmy Award winner Dick Cavett. Over the course of his five-decade career, Cavett has conducted in-depth interviews with some of the greatest talents of our time including Salvador Dali, Katharine Hepburn, Judy Garland, Marlon Brando, John Lennon and more! This performance will be recorded for Tambor’s “Acting Schmacting” podcast.

Group Critique Nights Come to CRIT Night at RPAC Gallery located at 410 Main Street in Ridgefield, CT. Have a glass of wine and snacks while you and your peers to evaluate your artistic progress in an insightful and respectful manner.

Friday – January 24, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm
Friday – February 28, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm
Friday – March 27, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm
Friday – April 24, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm

Cost is $120 for all 6 dates, or $20 à la carte*

Call to register 203-894-5609 or email info@RPACgallery.com.

*Sign up for all 6 and get a $20 Discount.

In a world where political correctness has run amok, Nick Di Paolo continues to be honest with his audiences.  One of the very few comedians known to lean right, Nick is unafraid and unapologetic.  Nick currently hosts “The Nick DiPaolo Show” every Monday through Thursday and tours the country on weekends.

Nick has performed on The Tonight Show, Late Night with David Letterman, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Conan O’ Brien. He was twice nominated for an Emmy for his writing on HBO’s The Chris Rock Show. He has also had four standup specials and was one of the stars on Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn and a stand out on many Comedy Central Roasts.

Sponsors:
BARTS

Sixteen-year-old Brandon Niederauer, nicknamed “Taz” for his ferocious guitar playing, has performed in some of the most legendary venues in America with many of the most prominent musicians of our time and many of his musical idols. In recent years, he’s shared the stage with multiple members of the Allman Brothers Band, including Gregg Allman, Derek Trucks, Warren Haynes, Butch Trucks, and Oteil Burbridge, as well as a variety of other notable musicians, including Buddy Guy, Stevie Nicks, Lady Gaga, Slash, Jon Batiste, Dweezil Zappa, Eric Gales, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, Dr. John, Gary Clark Jr., Col. Bruce Hampton, Eric Krasno, George Porter Jr., Robert Randolph, Karl Denson, Doug Wimbish, and John Popper. He has also performed with Tedeschi Trucks Band, The String Cheese Incident, Umphrey’s McGee, The Revivalists, Dumpstaphunk, Blackberry Smoke, Galactic, and countless other bands.

Since making his national television debut on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” at just ten years old, Brandon has appeared on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” “Good Morning America,” and “The View.” At just 12 years old, Brandon was cast in the role of guitarist “Zack Mooneyham” in the Tony Award-nominated Andrew Lloyd Webber Broadway production, School of Rock the Musical. In 2018, Brandon reunited with Andrew Lloyd Webber, performing with Sarah Brightman at The Phantom of the Opera’s 30th Anniversary celebration, and later that year alongside Sara Bareilles, Alice Cooper, and John Legend in NBC’s live broadcast production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Brandon is featured in Spike Lee’s Netflix series, “She’s Gotta Have It,” and performs concerts for audiences across the country and around the world.

The Rotary Club of Ridgefield has begun planning for the 21st annual Taste of Ridgefield to be held January 26 — funds raised from the 2020 event will be used primarily for Rotary’s annual scholarship and Ridgefield Community Grants.  The event features, for the single price of admission, complimentary samples from 25 to 30 of the top local restaurants, caterers and food vendors.

For the 21st year, the Ridgefield Rotary is cooking up A Taste of Ridgefield, the town’s premier food and wine event that benefits dozens of local organizations.  The legendary affair is sponsored by Premium – Fairfield  County Bank and Platinum – Synchrony Financial.

This event will be held at Lounsbury House on Sunday, January 26, 2020.  

Two serving sessions will be offered: from 12:30 – 2:30 pm, and 4:00 – 6:00 pm.

You can purchase tickets here!

Contact information:

Sue Manning & Bill Wyman

Co-Chairs, Participants, 2020 Taste of Ridgefield

203.942.9354 & 203.241.5949

suemanning6@att.net & wgwyman@gmail.com

The Ridgefield Historical Society has announced a series of Last Sundays at the Scott House, a chance for people who’d like to learn more about the organization and its 1714 headquarters to visit outside of the regular open hours (Tuesday-Thursday, 1-5 p.m.).

Each event, from 1 to 4 p.m. on the last Sundays of January through April, will include a special program, starting with docent-led tours of the Scott House on Jan. 26 at 2 and 3 p.m., during which guests will learn about the building’s history (it survived two moves) and how it has been adapted for its current use.

On Feb. 23 at 3 p.m., Dr. Darla Shaw will present her interpretation of Alice Paul, a leader in the woman suffrage movement who lived for many years in Ridgefield. The program for March 29 will also be part of the year-long celebration of Votes for Women: At 3 p.m., Andy Forsyth, assistant director of the Ridgefield Library will moderate a discussion of The Woman’s Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote by Elaine Weiss.

Program reservations are requested: visit ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org or 203-438-5821. For the March 29th discussion, visit ridgefieldlibrary.org.

The Ridgefield Historical Society is at 4 Sunset Lane, just off Grove Street.

John O’Hurley has gone from being best known as J. Peterman on Seinfeld to catapulting into one of television’s busiest and most versatile actors. From show host (“To Tell the Truth”, “Family Feud,” and NBC’s “The National Dog Show”), to Broadway star, to advertising hero (O’Hurley invested in the relaunch of The J. Peterman Company, and since 1999 has been a part-owner and member of the board of directors), this voice actor, singer, and comedian has truly done it all- including being a first season contestant on “Dancing with the Stars” (where he made it to the finals)!  Now touring with a band and performing his show- “A Man With Standards”, O’Hurley dazzles audiences with storytelling, songs and humor. A show that, like O’Hurley, has a little bit of everything!

The cold winter months are full of warmth, beauty, creativity, and deliciousness at Bernard’s and Sarah’s Wine Bar! Join us on Sunday, January 26 at 6pm for the Jazz Masters Series at Sarah’s Wine Bar featuring the Ted Rosenthal Trio.

Cover: $27.50 and $20 food and beverage minimum.

Call for reservations 203-438-8282

Monday, January 27, 2020 – 1:00pm to 2:00pm

Learn about no-contact Boxing and it’s benefits to ease the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Rock Steady certified coach, Richard Molyneux, will help you understand how boxing can improve balance, mobility, strength, and cognitive thinking.

This is part of the Wellness Education Series and is free for Recreation Center members and $10 for non-members. Pre-registration is strongly recommended to ensure a spot.

RSVP: (203) 431-2755 or recinfo@ridgefieldct.org.

Once upon a time, Amy Oestreicher had plans for college and dreams of Broadway. But all that changed one week before her senior prom. She was rushed to the hospital where her stomach exploded, literally, and after months in a coma, she learned she may never eat or drink again. Today, nearly 15 years and 27 surgeries later, Amy is grateful for that bump in the road and shares her incredible story. Please register by calling Bernard’s Restaurant at 203-438-8282.

Get the Led Out, a celebration of “The Mighty Zep,” returns to The Playhouse stage after a sold-out show last year! Hear the songs that the legendary Led Zeppelin created including “Kashmir,” “Whole Lotta Love,” “Dazed and Confused” and the iconic “Stairway to Heaven.”

Please Join Us at RPAC Gallery for a Book Signing!
January 31, 2020 – 5pm to 7pm and
February 1, 2020 – 1pm to 3pm
My Two Cents:Taking the Care Out of Health Care
Meet the Author: Antonio Paulo Pinto

Over the last two decades, Antonio Paulo Pinto has been focused on health insurance and access to health care, primarily within the individual and small business markets. This includes significant experience with Obamacare. Pinto participated with the program’s roll-out and implementation, enrolling thousands of individuals, families, and small business owners and their employees. He was also responsible for the creation and launch of Obamacare411, the first iPhone app for PPACA with an integrated health plan cost calculator. Pinto served over 12 years in the U.S. Army National Guard, as well as on many local and statewide non-profit and community-group boards and committees. Additionally, Pinto worked for over 10 years in a variety of Democratic political offices as both an elected and appointed official in Connecticut. He currently lives in Texas.
The cover illustration was created by RPAC’s own co-founder and instructor Greg Mursko.

Tony Award-winner Stephanie J. Block performs an evening of her career highlights including songs from WICKED, FALSETTOS and THE CHER SHOW as well as her favorite musical theatre standards.  Block most recently starred in The Cher Show for which she won a Tony Award, Drama Desk Award and Outer Critics Circle Award and received a Drama League Award Nomination, the New York Revival of FALSETTOS (Tony Award Nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, Drama Desk nomination for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical, Outer Critics Award Nomination, Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical), LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (Drama Desk Nomination for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical), THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD (Tony Award Nomination for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical and Drama Desk Award Nomination for Outstanding Actress in a Musical), ANYTHING GOES, BY THE WAY, MEET VERA STARK; 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL (Drama Desk nomination for Best Actress in a Musical), WICKED, THE PIRATE QUEEN, THE BOY FROM OZ.  She starred in the First Nat’l Touring Company of WICKED as Elphaba (Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Actress, Carbonell Award for Best Actress in a Musical).

Regional credits include: FUNNY GIRL (Robby Award Winner-Best Actress), CRAZY FOR YOU (L.A. Ovation Award Nominee), OLIVER (Critic’s Award-Best Actress), James Joyce’s THE DEAD, TRIUMPH OF LOVE, THE GRASS HARP, SOUTH PACIFIC, WILL ROGER’S FOLLIES, and the World Premiere of WICKED. Television Credits include: RISE, ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, HOMELAND and MADAM SECRETARY.

Stephanie has sung with numerous symphony orchestras around the U.S.  Her solo concert has been critically acclaimed in NYC and London.  Her voice can be heard on the original cast recordings of THE BOY FROM OZ, THE PIRATE QUEEN, and 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL (Grammy Nomination), and of course her own album, THIS PLACE I KNOW.  She is a proud member of The Musical Theatre Guild and has been a member of Actors’ Equity since 1995.

Visit the Ridgefield Theater Barn and experience another musical revue from the creative genius that brought you “Wreck The Halls!” Written and directed by Brad Blake, this irreverent musical romp about food will leave you doubled-over with laughter!

Recommended for mature audiences.

Show times:

January 31st – February 29nd
Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm
Sunday February 9th, 16th & 23rd at 2pm

Cabaret Seating – Bring Food & Drink
Doors open one hour prior to curtain

Tickets are $38/Adults, $33/Seniors, Students, and Veterans. Visit the Theater Barn’s website for more information.

Underwritten by Jeanne Cook, Liz & Steven Goldstone, and Sabina & Walter Slavin

LIVE PRESENTATION IN HD

The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess returns to the Met for the first time since 1990, in a new production directed by James Robinson in his company debut. America’s “folk opera,” as the 1935 creators described it, tells the story of disabled beggar Porgy, sung by Eric Owens, and his love for the drug-addicted Bess, portrayed by Angel Blue. David Robertson conducts a stellar cast that also includes Donovan Singletary as fisherman Jake, Golda Schultz as his wife Clara, Latonia Moore as the bereaved widow Serena, Frederick Ballentine as drug dealer Sportin’ Life, Alfred Walker as the brutal stevedore Crown, and Denyce Graves as Maria, town matriarch and operator of the local cook-shop. Infused with the timeless melodies of the much-loved classics “Summertime,” “It Ain’t Necessarily So,” “Bess, You Is My Woman Now,” “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin,” and “My Man’s Gone Now,” the new co-production with English National Opera and Dutch National Opera was hailed as a triumph at its premiere in London earlier this year.

Join Anna for an evening of immersion into Sound, Relaxation, Rejuvenation, and Peace. Within Himalayan Salt Cave, she will be playing Crystal Singing Bowls, Native American Medicine Drum, Koshi Chimes. This experience will allow you to let go of that which no longer serves, and will assist in creating ultimate transformation in your life! Embrace: ~Love ~Peace ~Harmony in your Mind, Body, and Heart Anna has been trained in Sound Healing with Zacciah Blackburn who is a gifted intuitive, teacher, and sound healer practicing in Ascutney, VT, at the Center of Light, which he founded.

*24 hour cancellation policy applies

*Door closes at 7:00 PM

*Please wear white socks

Featuring Musical Director & Ridgefield, CT resident Craig O’Keefe

Celebrate the most influential decade of our time with The Sixties Show, the Greatest 1960s Musical Re-Creation Show in the World! This multi-media show features note-for-note re-creations of some of the greatest songs from the 1960s — everything from The Beatles to The Lovin’ Spoonful to The Beach Boys and more – performed by a band featuring former members of The Who, Bob Dylan’s band, and the Saturday Night Live house band. This night of nostalgia features the sights and sounds of the decade – in addition to the concert experience, the show is also powerfully dramatized by a combination of narration and ‘60s archival audio and newsreel footage.

The members of The Sixties Show were hand-picked to perform and record with Sir Paul McCartney, The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, The Bee Gees, Mick Jagger, Bruce Springsteen and other legends and individually have performed at the most renown venues in the world such a Madison Square Garden, The Hollywood Bowl, Wembley Stadium, The Grand Rex in Paris, The Budokan in Tokyo and others.

Can he read your mind?  Or are you reading his? Discover your inner Superhero in this family friendly show as mentalist Joshua Kane leads you through a dazzling demonstration of the powers of the mind!  Kane identifies audience members with the special powers to successfully project their own thoughts and tap into their intuition. Borders of the Mind is for everyone who wishes that they had gotten a letter from Hogwarts, or that someone would point a finger at them and say “you are the one!” Are you ready to cross the Borders of the Mind? Don’t miss this amazing, interactive performance where entire audiences of all ages experience simultaneous telepathy and witness mind-bending feats of psychic phenomena!  “A voice that mesmerizes…” NY Daily News 

Northern Trust Broadway & Cabaret Series

Ridgefield Academy Family Series with support from Hamlet Hub

For more information go to the Women’s Center website.

Compassionate Ridgefield will hold their next community event on Thursday, February 6 from 7 to 9pm at The Lounsbury House. You are invited and encouraged to attend to learn more about Compassionate Ridgefield! 

What to bring? Your ideas, creativity, AND anyone you know who is interested in building a better Ridgefield!

Please RSVP: compassionateproject06877@gmail.com. Learn more about Compassionate Ridgefield online here.

Following the success of ACT’s incredible new production of WORKING, comes another Stephen Schwartz (WICKED) musical – GODSPELL. And ACT’s version is sure to thrill you! Artistic Director, Daniel C. Levine, reimagines this hit show in a unique and inspiring way. When a group of homeless children are found squatting in an abandoned church that is being readied for demolition, parables from the New Testament spring to life and spread a message of love and light. With songs like “Day By Day”, “By My Side”, and “All Good Gifts”, you will not want to miss this magical and touching production!

​Showtime changes based on day, check schedule. 

Director: Daniel C. Levine

Choreographer: Sara Brians

Music Supervisor: Bryan Perri

Music Director: Danny White

Costume Designer: Brenda Phelps

Scenic Designer: Reid Thompson

Light Designer: Jack Mehler

Sound Designer: John Salutz

SHOWTIMES:

Friday, February 7th at 8:00PM

Saturday, February 8th at 8:00PM

Last March, four of the world’s funniest comedians, who are also friends, took the stage together for a killer night of comedy. The show was politically incorrect, edgy, spontaneous and full of heart. It was a huge success. People were leaving the theater saying it was the best comedy show they had been to in years. So, when the four headliners were approached to do a tour, it was a no brainer. With over a hundred years combined comedy experience, not since the Kings of Comedy  has a group of headliners this talented shared the stage. All four comedians are dads who discovered they have an odd shared philosophy when it comes to parenting. The show WON’T BE EXCLUSIVELY about being parents. Vos, Florentine, Bennington and Kelly will cover everything and anything. But one thing they guarantee, this will be the funniest show you have seen in a long time.

ABOUT THE KREEPS WITH KIDS
Originally from Boston, ROBERT KELLY has become one of comedy’s hardest hitters, unapologetically talking about his dysfunctional family, repeat trips to juvie and his honest take on his own life, relationships and being a dad. Kelly has been a highlight of Montreal’s Just for Laughs Festival for years, and you’ve also seen him on HBO’s Tourgasm, FX’s Louie, Comedy Central’s Inside Amy Schumer, and FX’s Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll. He currently hosts the hit podcast You Know What Dude on the Riotcast Network.

RON BENNINGTON is a headlining comedian and New York based radio talk show host. In addition to hosting Bennington onSiriusXM daily with his daughter Gail, he hosts two critically acclaimed interview shows, Ron Bennington Interviews and Unmasked and performs at clubs and festivals throughout North America. Prior to coming to SiriusXM, Ron hosted shows on New York’s WNEW and WFNY Free FM, WJFK in Washington DC, and a nationally syndicated show in Tampa, Florida. He’s also a father, and a son.

RICH VOS has over 100 television appearances including four Comedy Central Specials as well as HBO, Showtime, and Starz appearances. He produced and starred in an award-winning comedy movie Women Aren’t Funny alongside Bonnie McFarlane, Chris Rock, Rosie O’Donnell and many more. He is a two-time Academy Awards writer, a regular on SiriusXM radio and the cohost of the hit podcast, My Wife Hates Me. He’s been sober for over 32 years and wants you to know that he’s been good at golf for 20. He’s also raising three daughters.

JIM FLORENTINE is a stand-up comedian, TV host, actor, podcaster and voice artist best known for co-hosting VH1 Classic’s heavy metal talk show series That Metal Show and for his work on Comedy Central’s show Crank Yankers which is slated to return to television later this year. You’ve also seen him in the hit movie Trainwreck, on Comedy Central’s Inside Amy Schumer, and Louie on FX. He’s a nationally touring headliner, and has also opened for Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax, Stone Sour, Black Label Society and more. Jim hosts the popular podcast Comedy, Metal, Midgets, and has released seven stand up comedy hours, six volumes of the wildly popular Terrorizing Telemarkers, and a hidden camera series called Meet the Creeps. His latest special, I Got the House, and his book, Everybody is Awful: [Except You!] are available everywhere. He’s also a first time father.

Join SPHERE by being part of a unique opportunity to celebrate the passion found in dance and music paired with true community spirit. SPHERE of Stars on Sunday, February 9, 2020 is a special performance made possible by SPHERE’s partnership with the Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance along with many special local businesses and organizations.  Join SPHERE dancers, singers, and performers, as well as some of your favorite community stars from Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance, Ridgefield Playhouse, Bach to Rock, Ridgefield Thrift Shop, ACT of Connecticut, Fairfield County Bank, Fit Club, RVNAhealth, JoyRide Cycling Studio, Train 2 Xcel LLC, The Ridgefield Chorale, Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, the RHS Chamber Orchestra, and Girl Scout Troop 50013! 

Every act will feature SPHERE members dancing, singing and performing alongside members of the community. It’s sure to be the most feel-good, joyful performance of the year!

Wednesday, February 12, 2020 – 12:00pm to 1:00pm

Feed Your Body Calm: the Role of Nutrition in Mood for Children, Teens, and Adults

Clinical Nutritionist/Nutritional Therapist Elizabeth Archibald, MPH,RDN will discuss ways to decrease stress and anxiety in your children and in yourself. You will learn how what to eat can affect mood, cognitive function, and energy.

This is part of the Wellness Education Series and is free for Recreation Center members and $10 for non-members. Pre-registration is strongly recommended to ensure a spot.

RSVP: (203) 431-2755 or recinfo@ridgefieldct.org

The Fab Four performs uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics such as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Twist And Shout,” “Here Comes The Sun,” and “Hey Jude” that will make you think you are watching the real thing!

Pepsi Rock Series powered by Xfinity

The cold winter months are full of warmth, beauty, creativity, and deliciousness at Bernard’s and Sarah’s Wine Bar! Join us on Friday, February 14th for a romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner. Sarah’s Wine Bar will be taking reservations for ALL party sizes and serving our regular menu + lots of wonderful specials!

Reservations from 5:00 – 9:30
. Call to make your reservation! 203-438-8282

Music: Pianist Hank Milligan and Bob Curiano on Guitar.

Sponsored by: Addessi Jewelers, Adam Broderick Salon & Spa, BMW of Ridgefield & Treasury Wine Estates

With support from: Abbey Tent & Party Rentals, The Cake Box, Deborah Anne’s Sweet Shoppe, Hollandia Nurseries, Nutmeg Livery Service, Parma Market and Bakery, & Whistle Stop Bakery

Alt-rock band Lifehouse has sold more than 15 million records worldwide and played sold-out shows around the globe. Known for their infectious, upbeat hit songs “Hanging by a Moment,” “First Time,” “Halfway Gone” and “Hurricane” as well as the emotionally charged ballads “You and Me,” “Broken” and “Whatever It Takes,” Lifehouse has shared the stage at arenas with the likes of the Rolling Stones, Pearl Jam and Matchbox Twenty.

6:30pm: Champagne & Desserts (one free glass of Champagne for every ticket holder)
8:00pm: Live Auction & Performance

Live auction items include:

• $5,000 gift certificate to design a custom piece of jewelry – courtesy of Addessi Jewelers
• “Me Time” Package – courtesy of Adam Broderick Salon & Spa
• Date night: A night out with a BMW and personal driver that includes dinner for two (at Bernard’s) and tickets to a show of your choice at The Ridgefield Playhouse, courtesy of BMW of Ridgefield

Underwritten by Jeanne Cook, Liz & Steven Goldstone, and Sabina & Walter Slavin

ENCORE PRESENTATION IN HD

ADOPHE ADAM
Choreography by Alexei Ratmansky

The young peasant girl Giselle dies of a broken heart when she learns that the man she loves, Albrecht, has betrayed her. Against her own will, she joins the Wilis, vengeful spirits of jilted brides who condemn Albrecht to dance until he dies of exhaustion. In this brand-new production of Giselle, world renowned choreographer Alexei Ratmansky brings a fresh perspective to one of the oldest and greatest works of classical dance, giving the audience an opportunity to discover this iconic ballet anew.

I Now Pronounce You Lucy Stone, a one-woman performance by and with Judith Kalaora, founder and artistic director of History At Play. Lucy Stone was the first women from Massachusetts to earn a college degree, a fierce abolitionist, and women’s rights activist. Challenging discrimination is not easy, but Lucy Stone is never one to take the easy road. Even Susan B. Anthony credited Lucy Stone for her involvement in the tumultuous women’s rights movement. The fight for suffrage is ferocious, so come along for the ride!

This performance is part of Ridgefield’s Votes for Women series, which explores the history of the women suffrage movement and celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment. There will be a whole year of programs including exhibits, theatrical and musical performances, field trips, discussions, film screenings, and more to commemorate this special anniversary. Click here for more information about the series and its upcoming programs.

The Votes for Women series is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Ridgefield, Ridgefield Library, Ridgefield Historical Society, Keeler Tavern Museum and History Center and Drum Hill Chapter of the DAR.

This is a free event!

Image: Judith Kalaora as Lucy Stone. Photo © Chris Cavalier Photography.

About the Exhibition

This year the Ridgefield Guild will again offer a special opportunity for a small group show. Five artists, as selected by our juror, will share the entire downstairs gallery. Two artists will go in the front gallery, one in the middle and two in the third, thus the 2-1-2 title of the exhibition.

Please check the website for all information regarding deadlines and applications.

The Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra’s commitment to world-class performances of marvelous music is our history and our future! Under the direction of Maestro Yuga Cohler, the orchestra, along with renowned soloists and special guest artists, presents extraordinary evenings of music sure to engage, entertain and inspire all music lovers!

Concerts are held in the Anne S. Richardson Auditorium at Ridgefield High School, 700 North Salem Road, Ridgefield, CT and at the Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road in Ridgefield, CT. Concerts begin at 8:00 PM.

Purchasing tickets is easy and convenient! Order online below or call the RSO Box Office at 203.438.3889.

• SEASON TICKET SUBSCRIPTIONS: Purchase season tickets for the best seat selection and up to 10% savings off individual ticket prices. Season subscriptions can be purchased by phone at 203.438.3889.
• INDIVIDUAL CONCERT TICKETS: Tickets to individual concerts can be purchased online or by phone beginning July 1st.

Conrad Tao
Piano

Octet
Igor Stravinsky

Sinfonietta
Francis Poulenc

Rhapsody in Blue
George Gershwin

Photo Credit: Brantley Gutierrez

LIVE PRESENTATION IN HD

PYTOR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Choreography by Yuri Grigorovich

Prince Siegfried is summoned by his parents to choose a bride. However, he encounters a mysterious and magnetic swan-woman, Odette, by the lake and is captivated. His vow of eternal love to her will have irreversible consequences. Tchaikovsky’s essential masterpiece returns for a live broadcast of the most-beloved ballet in the classical canon. Technically challenging and filled with vibrant emotion, with a stunning and world-famous corps de ballet in perfect unison, the legendary love story between Prince Siegfried and the dual personalities Odette/Odile, born at the Bolshoi Theatre, is a must-see.

Run time: 165 minutes

The Ridgefield Historical Society has announced a series of Last Sundays at the Scott House, a chance for people who’d like to learn more about the organization and its 1714 headquarters to visit outside of the regular open hours (Tuesday-Thursday, 1-5 p.m.).

Each event, from 1 to 4 p.m. on the last Sundays of January through April, will include a special program, starting with docent-led tours of the Scott House on Jan. 26 at 2 and 3 p.m., during which guests will learn about the building’s history (it survived two moves) and how it has been adapted for its current use.

On Feb. 23 at 3 p.m., Dr. Darla Shaw will present her interpretation of Alice Paul, a leader in the woman suffrage movement who lived for many years in Ridgefield. The program for March 29 will also be part of the year-long celebration of Votes for Women: At 3 p.m., Andy Forsyth, assistant director of the Ridgefield Library will moderate a discussion of The Woman’s Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote by Elaine Weiss.

Program reservations are requested: visit ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org or 203-438-5821. For the March 29th discussion, visit ridgefieldlibrary.org.

The Ridgefield Historical Society is at 4 Sunset Lane, just off Grove Street.

It’s a night of fast-paced sleight of hand, escape artists, comedy and illusions! Starring magicians from the award-winning CW TV series “Masters of Illusion,” this show came out of the success of the brain-bending Broadway sensation The Illusionists.

Group Critique Nights Come to CRIT Night at RPAC Gallery located at 410 Main Street in Ridgefield, CT. Have a glass of wine and snacks while you and your peers to evaluate your artistic progress in an insightful and respectful manner.

Friday – January 24, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm
Friday – February 28, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm
Friday – March 27, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm
Friday – April 24, 2020 • 6pm to 8pm

Cost is $120 for all 6 dates, or $20 à la carte*

Call to register 203-894-5609 or email info@RPACgallery.com.

*Sign up for all 6 and get a $20 Discount.

LIVE PRESENTATION IN HD

In the Met’s first-ever performances of Agrippina, Handel’s satire of sex and power politics, Sir David McVicar reconceives a production he originally created for the Monnaie in Brussels in 2000, evoking a scandalous world in which the Roman Empire never fell but simply kept going right up to the present. Holding a distorted mirror to contemporary society (as Handel did when he staged this opera), the production presents the corrupt intrigues of the political classes, brought to life by Joyce DiDonato as the power-hungry empress Agrippina, Brenda Rae as the scheming, seductive Poppea, and Kate Lindsey as the feckless teenager Nerone. Iestyn Davies portrays the ambitious officer Ottone, and Matthew Rose is the emperor Claudius, on whose vacated throne Agrippina is determined to install her son. Renowned for his interpretations of the Baroque repertoire, Harry Bicket conducts.

Approx. runtime: 4:10

Votes for Women: The Road to Victory is a beautifully rendered, eleven-panel exhibit that seamlessly blends original artwork with a visually stimulating overview of Women’s Suffrage history in celebration of the centennial of the 19th Amendment. The colorful and playful panels depict various themes and periods of American Suffrage on the local, state, and national levels, outlining significant campaigns and famous suffragists including key Connecticut and Ridgefield proponents. In addition, this provocative exhibit will shed light on the anti-suffragist movement, the exclusion of black women from white suffrage movements and the subsequent development of a parallel black suffrage movement, the ongoing fight for equal rights, and the continued disenfranchisement of women.

The exhibit is researched by the Ridgefield Historical Society and the League of Women Voters of Ridgefield, created by local artist Bil Mikulewicz, and curated by Dr. Heather Prescott, an expert in the field and a faculty member at Central Connecticut State University.

Note: Connecticut suffrage expert Dr. Kelly Marino will give a talk at the Library on Sunday, March 1 at 4 pm followed by the opening reception of the Votes for Women: Road to Victory exhibit from 5 to 6 pm. Reservations are required for the free talk; please register here.

In addition to the exhibit at the Library there will also be a Suffrage Exhibit taking place at Town Hall during the month of March, which will feature artifacts and more!

To reserve a seat, please register here.

As part of the Votes for Women: Ridgefield Celebrates the 19th Amendment series taking place in Ridgefield throughout 2020, Connecticut suffrage expert Dr. Kelly Marino will give a talk from 4 – 5 pm followed by the opening reception of the Votes for Women: Road to Victory exhibit from 5 – 6 pm.

Dr. Kelly Marino is an Assistant Lecturer of History and Coordinator of Women’s Studies at Sacred Heart University and a historian of 20th century America with a focus on women’s history. A native of Connecticut, she is passionate about state and local history. A graduate of CCSU, with an MA from the University of Massachusetts and a PhD from Binghamton University, Dr. Marino is currently working on a book project about the connections between advances in women’s higher education and the women’s rights movement. Her project examines how college students and campuses became important new protest spaces for women’s suffrage and women’s rights during the Progressive Era. Her research explores the importance of young people, particularly young women, and educational activism to fueling social and political movements. Kelly is a frequent guest speaker and expert on the Connecticut suffrage movement.

The exhibit Votes for Women: The Road to Victory seamlessly blends original artwork with a visually stimulating overview of Women’s Suffrage history in celebration of the centennial of the 19th Amendment. The exhibit is researched by the Ridgefield Historical Society and the League of Women Voters of Ridgefield, created by local artist Bil Mikulewicz, and curated by Dr. Heather Prescott, an expert in the field and a faculty member at Central Connecticut State University. The exhibit will be on view at the Ridgefield Library from March 1–30.

Saxophonist Branford Marsalis is one of the most influential and revered figures in contemporary music. The band leader for “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” in the early ‘90s, he is also a NEA Jazz Master, Grammy Award winner and Tony Award nominee. Marsalis is equally at home performing concertos with symphony orchestras and sitting in with members of the Grateful Dead and Sting, but the core of his musical universe remains the Branford Marsalis Quartet.

After more than three decades of existence with minimal personnel changes, this celebrated ensemble is revered for its uncompromising interpretation of a kaleidoscopic range of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics. After the Grammy-nominated Upward Spiral, on which guest vocalist Kurt Elling was seamlessly integrated into the group, the Quartet has followed up with The Secret Between the Shadow and the Soul, its most emotionally wide-ranging and melody driven collection to date. John Zeugner captured the impact of the Quartet in live performance in a recent concert review, calling it “casually confident, professional, cerebral, and supercharged with energy. The Branford Marsalis Quartet…was all of those adjectives and more.”

Moffly Media Evening of Art, Wine & Jazz Series

Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Danbury

Whitney Houston’s musical legacy is brought to life in this critically acclaimed tribute show described as “mind-blowingly spot on”. Be stunned by the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids – a chart-topping artist in her home country of South Africa – who has performed alongside the likes of Keri Hilson, Keyshia Cole and Monica and featured on Fox TV’s ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ and BBC1 TV’s ‘Even Better Than the Real Thing’. With the accompaniment of a live band, backing vocalists and choreographed dancers, plus state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and theatrical effects, this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers. The two-hour production will fill you with joy, nostalgia and wonderment as it takes you on a heartfelt journey through Houston’s greatest hits including “I Will Always Love You,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” “How Will I Know,” “One Moment in Time,” “I Have Nothing,” “Run to You,” “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” “Greatest Love of All,” “I’m Every Woman,” “Queen of the Night,” “Exhale (Shoop Shoop),” “Million Dollar Bill” and more.

Not associated with the Estate of Whitney Houston.

Pepsi Rock Series powered by Xfinity

An annual tradition, this youthful and graceful company enthralls audiences with a range of acrobatic performances, most of them typifying Chinese circus and offering a refreshing alternative to the Western tradition with acts that often trace their origin to the harvest festivals of more than 2,000 years ago. Under the direction of Zhao Lizhi, the artistry, individually and collectively, attains levels that make it seem almost unfair to single out any act, from jugglers to the comic knife throwers and the bicyclist who finishes by piling about 10 of his colleagues aboard his vehicle. This show will sell out – get your tickets early!

Announcing our 2020 Evening of One Acts

Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 8pm, March 13th through April 4th. Matinees Sunday March 22nd & 29th at 2pm.

Foothold by Pat Lennon
Directed by Brian DeToma featuring:
Larry Greeley as Thomas
Bonnie Rosenbaum as Mary

Home, Sweet Homeland Security by C. J. Ehrlich
Directed By Michael Ferrara, featuring:
Christine Hruska as Nina Coldstone
Craig David Rosen as Dirk Coldstone
Rachel Ames as Sheila Sipkin
Josh Adelson as Mike Sipkin

One Night Stan by Adam Szudrich
Directed by Nancy Ponturo, featuring:
Chhanda Som as Rachel
Kimberley Bjorkman as Holly
Flori Carlin Doyle as Marie

Sirens by Carol Mullen
Directed by Erik Tonner, featuring:
Pamme Jones as Smith
Taffy Miller as Wesson
Valerie Heugel as The Captain
Emily Volpintesta as Doc, Specs, Perp

Slow Dating by Adam Szudrich
Directed by Linda Seay, featuring:
Stephanie Hepburn as Ester

Wait For It by MaryEthel Schmidt
Directed by Duane Lanham, featuring:
Jenn Hankla as Greta
Cooper Smithers as Greg

Which Wildflower Are You? by Linda Bidwell Delaney
Directed by Kate Patton, featuring:
Matt Pagliaro as Max
Panni Layton as Sam
Emma Waters as Rose
Nicole Veach as Jane

LIVE PRESENTATION IN HD

François Girard, whose mystical, blood-drenched vision for Wagner’s Parsifal became one of the Met’s most intensely visceral highlights in recent seasons, turns to another Wagnerian masterpiece, Der Fliegende Holländer, conducted by Valery Gergiev. For the first time at the Met, Sir Bryn Terfel sings the role of the mysterious Dutchman, condemned to roam the seas for eternity, with Anja Kampe as the devoted Senta, whose love can set him free. In a nod to Senta’s obsession with a portrait of the legendary title seafarer, the Met stage is transformed into a colossal oil painting. Franz-Josef Selig portrays Senta’s father Daland, Sergey Skorokhodov takes on the role of the huntsman Erik, David Portillo sings the Steersman, and Mihoko Fujimura is Senta’s nurse Mary. Der Fliegende Holländer is a co-production with L’Opéra de Québec and Dutch National Opera, Amsterdam.

Approx. runtime: 2:44

Atria Senior Living Classical Series

Underwritten by Jeanne Cook, Liz & Steven Goldstone, and Sabina & Walter Slavin

Opening Act: Christine O’Leary
Bandsintown Emerging Artist Series
Doyle Coffin Architecture Singer Songwriter Series

FREE craft beer tasting in the lobby before the show!

Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon is a 2019 “American Idol” finalist whose vocal range and songwriting wowed judges and fans alike. Since the show, he has released an EP and shared the stage with Dear Evan Hansen star Ben Platt. The Ridgefield Playhouse gratefully acknowledges the sponsorship of this Emerging Artist concert by Frank Selvaggi, Bill Shea, Jane Musky and Tony Goldwyn.

Buy tickets here!

STARRING CHRISTINE LAVIN, JOHN GORKA, PATTY LARKIN, CLIFF EBERHARDT, & CHERYL WHEELER

Presenting the 25th Anniversary concerts of “On A Winter’s Night” from veteran singer-songwriters Christine Lavin, John Gorka, Patty Larkin, Cheryl Wheeler and Cliff Eberhardt. These are among the brightest stars of the singer/songwriter movement for the past three decades. In 1994 Christine Lavin gathered them together, along with folk and Americana artists to showcase music of the Winter Season on the now classic On A Winter’s Night CD, followed by several years of touring collaborations. These artists have released dozens of recordings and toured steadily through the decades, with fond memories of their touring days together. Now in 2019-2020, the winter season is again celebrated by these unique and popular performers, back together by popular demand.

Save the date! The 9th Annual RVNAhealth Spelling Bee will take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2020, from 7 PM – 9 PM at The Ridgefield Playhouse.

The RVNAhealth Spelling Bee is a fun, family tradition that is for a great cause! Join in on the camaraderie, enjoy the friendly competition, and help RVNAhealth as we continue to support our community.

Purchase tickets here!

Mike Campbell, co-founding member of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and Grammy award winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, brings his signature guitar sound to long-term side project, The Dirty Knobs. In 2018 after the loss of Tom Petty, his dear friend and collaborator of nearly 50 years, Campbell joined Fleetwood Mac as a full-fledged member of the band and toured on their highly praised 2018-2019 world tour. The Dirty Knobs and Campbell perform his iconic hits, while unleashing a fresh and edgier side with band originals.

The Ridgefield Guild of Artists
10th Annual Juried Member Show
March 21 to April 26, 2020
Juror: Adrienne Ruger Conzelman of ARC Fine Art LLC

Adrienne Ruger Conzelman is the founder and director of ARC Fine Art, a private contemporary art gallery in Fairfield, CT. ARC Fine Art represents over thirty artists who range from the newly emerging to the most established in their field. Since its inception in 2009, the gallery has mounted more than 40 solo and group exhibitions in its Connecticut gallery, as well as in Pop-Up spaces in New York City, Amagansett, NY, Shelter Island, NY and Charleston, SC.  In addition to being a full service gallery, ARC Fine Art offers complete advisory services for both the new and seasoned collector, enriched through educational programming and private tours of museums, galleries, and artist studios. Adrienne holds a BA in Art History from Hamilton College and a Masters in Art History from Williams College, with a concentration in American painting from 1770 to 1970. In addition, she has received a certificate in Appraisal Studies from New York University and has completed coursework in the field of contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art, Sotheby’s, and Christie’s. Between 1995 and 1997, Conzelman worked as a specialist in the American Paintings Department at Christie’s. From 1998 to 2002, she researched and wrote a private collection catalogue titled, After the Hunt: The Art Collection of William B. Ruger, published by Stackpole Books in 2002. She has also held numerous volunteer positions at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Williams College Museum of Art, the Emerson Art Gallery, and the Whitney Gallery of Western Art. Conzelman recently served a Trustee of Hamilton College for which she has curated two alumni artist’s exhibitions in 2000 and 2010 in New York City.

Entry/Fees:

The show is open to all Ridgefield Guild of Artists members age 16 and older. Artists may submit up to 5 works. Please submit your entries online through www.Entrythingy.com.

THE MACHINE performs Pink Floyd, America’s top Pink Floyd show, has forged a 30-year reputation for extending the legacy of Pink Floyd, selling out theaters, premier showcase rooms and casinos across North America, Europe and Asia, performing at renowned music festivals such as Bonnaroo, Riverbend, and Gathering of the Vibes, and sharing the stage with full symphony orchestras, including the Atlanta, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Jacksonville and San Diego Symphonies, as well as the Buffalo Philharmonic.

The New York-based quartet performs a diverse mix of The Floyd’s extensive 16-album repertoire, complete with faithful renditions of popular hits as well as obscure gems. With stellar musicianship and passionate delivery, The Machine explores collective improvisation rivaling that of an early 1970’s Pink Floyd. Their use of expanded theatrical elements and elaborate stage displays and lighting continues in the spirit of the later Floyd of the 1980’s. The band is also known for recreating entire albums as a part of their show, accepting requests from fans, and for taking an A to Z approach in which one song is played for every letter of the alphabet. Special shows include lasers by the same company that provides classic Pink Floyd laser effects for Roger Waters and David Gilmour tours.

The members of The Machine include founding members Joe Pascarell (guitar, vocals) and Tahrah Cohen (drums), and long time band mates Stephen Bard (bass, vocals) and Scott Chasolen (keys, vocals).

Back after a sold out show, magician Mike Super, star of “America’s Got Talent” and winner of NBC’s “Phenomenon,” stuns audiences with his spectacular illusions! Don’t miss newly created, never-before-seen magic show!

Ridgefield Magazine’s Broadway & Cabaret Series

Ridgefield Academy Family Series with support from Hamlet Hub