Barts Tree Service Comedy Series
Outdoors – Seated under a tent on the field next to The Playhouse

This event will be socially-distanced with seating under a tent on the field next to The Playhouse. Chairs are provided for all ticket holders and will be pre-assigned based on the date of ticket purchase. Members will receive priority seating.

Mentioned in Rolling Stone Magazine by Marc Maron as a “comic who should be big” and in Esquire by Jim Gaffigan as “one of the top up and coming comics.” Nate Bargatze is bringing his comedy to The Ridgefield Playhouse in an outdoor “theater”-in the tent on the field next to the venue. Hailing from Old Hickory, Tennessee, rising stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze is selling out shows across America. Nate’s half-hour Netflix Special “The Standups” premiered on July 4th 2017 to rave reviews. In addition to touring the country as a headliner, Nate toured in arenas with Chris Rock on his 2017 Total Blackout Tour. He currently has a deal with 20th Century Fox to develop his own TV show. Nate’s comedy is both clean and relatable, evident in his six appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon following four appearances on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. He regularly performs at Bonnaroo, SXSW, Oddball Comedy Festival, and more. He was also part of Jimmy Fallon’s Clean Cut Comedy Tour, and has done live shows for the troops in Iraq and Kuwait five times.

Richard Dreyfuss stars as cable worker Roy Neary, who along with several other stunned bystanders experience a close encounter of the first kind – witnessing UFOs soaring across the sky. After this life-changing event, the inexplicable vision of a strange, mountain-like formation haunts him. He becomes obsessed with discovering what it represents, much to the dismay of his wife and family. Meanwhile, bizarre occurrences are happening around the world. Government agents have close encounters of the second kind – discovering physical evidence of extraterrestrial visitors in the form of a lost fighter aircraft from World War II and a stranded military ship that disappeared decades earlier only to suddenly reappear in unusual places. Roy continues to chase his vision to a remote area where he and the agents follow the clues that have drawn them to reach a site where they will have a close encounter of the third kind – contact.

Encounter this sci-fi classic at a special event that includes exclusive insights from Turner Classic Movies.

Running Time: 2hrs 25min

Take a look at the online workshops offered by RPAC: rpacartcenter.com/online-workshops

Take a look at class offerings for Fall 2020 here: rgoa.org/courses

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH RIDGEFIELD LIBRARY

Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
Q&A HOSTED BY CHERYL WASHINGTON

A film by Raoul Peck. In 1979, James Baldwin wrote a letter to his literary agent describing his next project, Remember This House. The book was to be a revolutionary, personal account of the lives and successive assassinations of three of his close friends-Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. At the time of Baldwin’s death in 1987, he left behind only thirty completed pages of his manuscript. Now, in his incendiary new documentary, master filmmaker Raoul Peck envisions the book James Baldwin never finished. The result is a radical, up-to-the-minute examination of race in America, using Baldwin’s original words and flood of rich archival material. I Am Not Your Negro is a journey into black history that connects the past of the Civil Rights movement to the present of #BlackLivesMatter. It is a film that questions black representation in Hollywood and beyond. And, ultimately, by confronting the deeper connections between the lives and assassination of these three leaders, Baldwin and Peck have produced a work that challenges the very definition of what America stands for.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

Richard Dreyfuss stars as cable worker Roy Neary, who along with several other stunned bystanders experience a close encounter of the first kind – witnessing UFOs soaring across the sky. After this life-changing event, the inexplicable vision of a strange, mountain-like formation haunts him. He becomes obsessed with discovering what it represents, much to the dismay of his wife and family. Meanwhile, bizarre occurrences are happening around the world. Government agents have close encounters of the second kind – discovering physical evidence of extraterrestrial visitors in the form of a lost fighter aircraft from World War II and a stranded military ship that disappeared decades earlier only to suddenly reappear in unusual places. Roy continues to chase his vision to a remote area where he and the agents follow the clues that have drawn them to reach a site where they will have a close encounter of the third kind – contact.

Encounter this sci-fi classic at a special event that includes exclusive insights from Turner Classic Movies.

Running Time: 2hrs 25min

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the advertised date of a performance is subject to change as we abide by local and federal guidelines. Original tickets will be valid for any rescheduled date or reissued. If you are a ticket holder unable to attend a rescheduled date, there are no refunds; however, exchanges will be available through the box office.

The Ridgefield Playhouse is following Connecticut Safety Guidelines in order to continually serve and protect our patrons and community. We ask that you observe the following:

Purchase concession via our mobile site ridgefieldplayhouse.ordernext.com. Available up to two hours prior to the start of the movie- you can pick up your concessions on your way in! The app will be open throughout the film as well.
Ushers will seat you – All tickets are General Admission.
Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the lobby and bathrooms.
And remember: FACEMASKS ARE REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES! Please maintain a 6 foot distance from others.

This year, SafeWalk will be VIRTUAL so you can walk, run, bike or even hopscotch your way through a 4K any time the weekend of October 2 – 4, 2020. Stroll through your neighborhood, jump on the treadmill (or literally jump on a trampoline!) or even meet friends, safely social distancing at the track or your favorite park.

Register HERE.

Whether you plan to join a team or walk on your own, you can start fundraising today! Begin by registering through the link below, create your fundraising page, share your page on social media, by text or email. Encourage others to join in on the fun! Geography has no limits this year!

For more information, please contact Linda Cummins, Special Events Manager, at linda.c @wcogd.org or (203) 731-5200 x232.

In connection with the Ridgefield Library’s LYL (Love your Library) Weekend – a Virtual Battle of the  Books with Jim Mustich.  Cheer on local and literary luminaries as they champion books they love.  Who will prevail? The audience decides!  Presenters:  Roz Chast & Patricia Marx, Mike Flynn, Stephen Schwartz, Judy Silver and Joel Third. 

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/y2zpbns5

Celebrate LYL (Love Your Library) Weekend by joining puppeteer Jim Napolitano, known as Nappy’s Puppets, in this shadow puppet adventure. Sing some silly Halloween songs and learn how to create and perform your own shadow theater. For families with children of all ages. This program is virtual. Registration Required.https://ridgefieldlibrary.librarymarket.com/events/spooky-song-sing-long-nappys-shadow-puppets

Pepsi Rock Series powered by Xfinity
Sponsored by:

DIAMOND SPONSORS: Missy & Andy Williams

PLATINUM SPONSORS: Berisford, Rabinowitz, Ross & Stockel Families, Northern Trust

GOLD SPONSORS: Eric Diefenbach & JK Brown

SILVER SPONSORS: Deb and Howard Bubb

BRONZE SPONSORS: Caroline & Rommin Adl, Amy & Eric Freidenrich, Kathleen & Dave Lyons, Jill & Larry Mango, Dr. Margaret A. Reed & Patricia Fernandes, The Sawtelle Family, Linsey Tully & Joe Racioppo, Mercedes-Benz of Danbury

With Additional Support From: All Seasons Tent and Party Rentals, Campari, Hollandia Nurseries, Pepsi, Reliance Merchant Services

Limited indoor socially distanced seating inside the theater for sponsors. For sponsorship click here.

Join us as we celebrate the start of the 20th Anniversary Season of the Ridgefield Playhouse! Three ticket types available to see Bruce Hornsby live and special guests virtually streamed:

Sponsor Tickets: includes dinner under the tent by Bernard’s or Gallo & tickets to see performance inside the Playhouse theater
Gala Tickets: includes dinner under the tent and a live feed of the playhouse stage
Streaming Ticket: includes a livestream of the event to watch from home
Silent auction items available via Relibid.
*if you purchase a Sponsor or Gala ticket and would like to pick up your dinner-to-go and watch via a livestream from home that is also an option.

6:30pm: Gala and Sponsor ticket holders sit only with their party (restaurant style seating) and will be served dinner from Bernard’s and Gallo – then see a full performance with Bruce Hornsby as well as virtual guest appearances from artists who have been at The Ridgefield Playhouse over the past 20 years. With special guests Cowboy Junkies, Joan Baez, Giancarlo Esposito, Gilbert Gottfried, Graham Nash, Todd Rundgren, Paul Shaffer, Suzanne Vega and more, this special Live Stream 20th Anniversary event will be filled with lots of surprises!

About the Artist: Having performed more than 5 times at The Ridgefield Playhouse, Bruce Hornsby is back to celebrate its 20th anniversary! Whether it’s his iconic song “The Way It Is,” or any of this other hits singles – including “The End of the Innocence” which he co-wrote Don Henley or Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me” among others, this 65 year old musician, who has performed with everyone from the Grateful Dead, to jazz legends Christian McBride to bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs and more – has always been known for his unpredictability.

With his new album Non-Secure Connection, which has received rave reviews, he continues to take the music world by surprise. After his wide-ranging, critically acclaimed 2019 album Absolute Zero, the Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, composer and bandleader continues where he left off – featuring 10 new songs and exploring a broad range of themes, from civil rights to computer hackers, mall salesmen to the Darwinian aspects of AAU basketball.

He continues to collaborate with some of the best in the business, including the late Leon Russell, who appears thanks to a demo that he and Hornsby recorded together more than 25 years ago. “I must be the only person around that has a record with James Mercer, Jamila Woods, Leon Russell and Vernon Reid,” Hornsby says with a laugh. “It’s a great, disparate crowd.”

Tonight, along with a virtual array of other amazing stars who have graced the stage of the Playhouse, Hornsby will bring it all home – this time to support the arts!

Join us for a night under the tent at the Ridgefield Playhouse for a performance by Pete Wikul Jazz Band with proceeds going to the upcoming RSO All Hearts Fundraiser to benefit our orchestra musicians.

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH THE ALDRICH CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM

Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Daniela Sikora & Keitha Kinne, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
In addition to the film, there will be bonus content consisting of a post interview led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

A film by Nijla Mumin. Summer (Zoe Renee) is a 17-year old carefree black girl, whose world is turned upside down when her mother, a popular meteorologist named Jade Jennings (Simone Missick), abruptly converts to Islam and becomes a different person, prompting Summer to reevaluate her identity.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

On the occasion of the official 200th anniversary celebrations, this documentary is the first cinematic journey through the rooms, stories and emotions of one of the most visited museums in the world.  Its wealth of more than 8,000 art treasures is a spell-binding experience drawing almost 3 million visitors to Madrid every year.  Magnificent masterpieces tell the story of Spain and of an entire continent.

We are in one of the temples of world art. Its collection tells the story of kings, queens, dynasties, wars, defeats and victories, as well as the story of the feelings and emotions of the men and women of yesteryear and of today, whose lives are intertwined with the museum’s: rulers, painters, artists, architects, collectors, curators, intellectuals, visitors. This heritage is universal and includes the works of Vélazquez, Rubens, Titian, Mantegna, Bosch, Goya, El Greco, to name just a few. Oscar winning actor Jeremy Irons (Reversal of Fortune, Damage, The Mission,Stealing Beauty, The House of the Spirits, The Correspondence…) will be guiding spectators on a discovery of a heritage of beauty and art.

Run time: 90 minutes

The Ridgefield Playhouse is following Connecticut Safety Guidelines in order to continually serve and protect our patrons and community. We ask that you observe the following:

Purchase concession via our mobile site ridgefieldplayhouse.ordernext.com. Available up to two hours prior to the start of the movie- you can pick up your concessions on your way in! The app will be open throughout the film as well.
Ushers will seat you – All tickets are General Admission.
Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the lobby and bathrooms.
And remember: FACEMASKS ARE REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES! Please maintain a 6 foot distance from others.

Mountain Dew Country & Bluegrass Series
Doyle Coffin Architecture Singer Songwriter Series
Outdoors – seated under The Playhouse tent

With four Grammy Awards and 22 nominations, internationally renowned mandolin virtuoso, composer and vocalist Chris Thile has been wowing audiences for nearly 20 years. As a MacArthur Fellow, a member of Goat Rodeo, Punch Brothers, Nickel Creek, and the host of the radio program, Live from Here, Thile’s broad outlook encompasses classical, rock, jazz, and bluegrass. His music transcends the borders of conventionally circumscribed genres, and created a distinctly American canon and a new musical aesthetic for performers and audiences alike.

A child prodigy, Thile first rose to fame as a member of Grammy Award-winning trio Nickel Creek, with whom he released four albums and sold over two million records. In 2014, along with a national tour, the trio released a new album, A Dotted Line, their first since 2005.

As a soloist, Thile has released several albums including his most recent, Thanks for Listening, a collection of recordings, produced by Thomas Bartlett, originally written as Songs of the Week for A Prairie Home Companion. In February 2013, Thile won a Grammy for his work on The Goat Rodeo Sessions, collaborating with Yo-Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer, and Stuart Duncan. In September 2014, Thile and Meyer released their latest album collaboration, Bass Mandolin, which won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. Punch Brothers released their latest album, The Phosphorescent Blues, in January 2015, and a follow up EP, The Wireless, in November of the same year. Most recently, Thile released a double-album with Brad Mehldau, titled Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau, in January 2017 and a collection of works from Bach with Yo-Yo Ma & Edgar Meyer in April 2017 called Bach Trios. Continuing his trend of creative excellence, Thile took home the Grammy for the Best Folk Album for the Punch Brother’s 2019 album, All Ashore.

Kenneth Kellogg has been praised for his “commanding stage presence” and “rich, resonant bass,” and is quickly gaining recognition as a sought after artist.

“Kenneth Kellogg, a 6-foot 5-inch bass-baritone who has sung in starring roles at Washington Opera, does most of the heavy expositional lifting as the young Griffith (in a production of Terence Blanchard’s “Champion: An Opera in Jazz”). With appropriate panache, he makes a believable character, with a voice that can handle both the operatic and the jazz portions.” – SeenandHeard International, Reviewing “Champion” at Opera Parallele and SFJazz
“The tall and distinguished Kenneth Kellogg made an eloquent Prince Gremin (in Tchaikovsky’s opera “Eugene Onegin”), his deep bass voice resounding throughout Meymandi Hall as if wrapped in velvet…” – Josmar Lopes, Reviewing “Eugene Onegin” at Opera North Carolina

Born and raised in Washington, D.C, music has been a part of Kenneth Kellogg’s life since grade school. Nurtured in the public school system by amazing music teachers, he participated in choirs throughout the city and began formal training at the Duke Ellington School of the Performing and Visual Arts as a Vocal and Visual Arts student.

Among his roles, many are staples of opera repertoire: The title role, in Mozart’s Don Giovanni, as well as Leporello and Il Commendatore, Mephistopheles in Gounod’s Faust, Don Alfonso in Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte, Ramfis and Il Re in Verdi’s Aida, Colline in Puccini’s La Boheme, the title role of Handel’s Hercules, The King in Handel’s Ariodante, Osmin in Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serail, Sarastro and the Speaker in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, Sparafucile in Verdi’s Rigoletto, Fasolt in Wagner’s Das Rheingold.

Never afraid to step outside of the box of traditional repertoire, Mr. Kellogg has been involved with several new operas. He sang the role of Queequeg in the workshop of Jake Heggie’s acclaimed, Moby Dick at San Francisco Opera. He led the cast in the west coast premier of Terence Blanchard’s Champion: An Opera in Jazz, as the champion boxer, Young Emile Griffith, to rave reviews with Opera Parallele. He has been a guest at the Opera America’s New Works Forum in NY, where among other roles, he brought to life the character of Sam Bankhead in Dan Sonenberg’s Opera, The Summer King, about the life of Negro League great, Joshua Gibson. He is a frequent collaborator with small companies pushing the boundaries of the art of opera and has lent his voice to several voice-over projects.

Mr. Kellogg has managed a very active performing schedule between the US and Europe. He has worked with many leaders in the field at houses including San Francisco Opera, LA Opera, Washington National Opera, Atlanta Opera, Washington Concert Opera, Canadian Opera Company, Opera Tampa, Opera Memphis, Opera North Carolina, Opera Parallele, and is set to make several role and house debuts. His European debut was in the role of Sarastro at Opera de Oviedo where he returned to sing the devil himself, Mephistopheles in Faust. He also sang the same 2 roles with Opera de Lausanne.

He in an Alumnus of the Adler Fellowship Program at San Francisco Opera and the Domingo-Caftriz Emerging Artist Program at Washington National Opera. He also trained at the Academy of Vocal Arts, Wolf Trap Opera and holds degrees from the University of Michigan and Ohio University.

SPECIAL GUEST: BRITTANY CARNEY
Barts Tree Service Comedy Series
Outdoors – seated under The Playhouse tent

This event will be socially-distanced with seating under a tent. Chairs are provided for all ticket holders and will be pre-assigned based on the date of ticket purchase. Members will receive priority seating.

Colin Quinn is a stand-up comedian, actor, and author from Brooklyn (okay, Park Slope). From MTV’s “Remote Control” to “SNL” to Comedy Central’s “Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn,” Mr. Quinn is not one to take a hint and bow out gracefully. Over the course of his more than 3-decade career, he has become one of the most beloved voices in comedy, with a focus often on the roller coaster ride that American politics and culture has historically been. His beloved commentary on news headlines dates back to his popular 1990s run hosting “Weekend Update” on NBC’s iconic Saturday Night Live and as host of Comedy Central’s classic fan favorite series Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn.

This year, Colin’s new book Overstated comes off the heels of his most recent one-man show, Red State Blue State, which premiered in January 2019 to rave reviews at The Minetta Lane Theatre in New York City. The New Yorker lauded the hour as “among Quinn’s funniest so far” and The New York Times lovingly described Quinn as a “barstool philosopher.” The show aired on CNN as the network’s first comedy special in May 2019 and is currently streaming on Netflix. Red State Blue State followed the wildly successful off-Broadway run of Colin Quinn: The New York Story, directed by Jerry Seinfeld, and Colin Quinn: Long Story Short, which garnered a Drama Desk Award nomination.

Colin’s HBO Max special Summer of 2020: A Drive-In Comedy Special was also just shot at a repurposed drive-in theatre in Brooklyn. Part standup showcase and part documentary, the hour will premiere in the Fall of 2020.

After a sold out performance this past January at The Playhouse – Gary Gulman is back! With 25 years in comedy, Gulman has established himself as an eminent performer and peerless writer. His most recent standup special for HBO, “The Great Depresh,” is a universally acclaimed, tour de force look at mental illness, equal parts hilarious and inspiring. A product of Boston, Gulman has been a scholarship college football player, an accountant, and a high school teacher. He has made countless television appearances as both a comedian and an actor. He is currently writing a memoir for Flatiron Books, tentatively titled “K Through 12.”

One of the most shocking films of all time, Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho changed the thriller genre forever. Join the Master of Suspense on a chilling journey as an unsuspecting victim (Janet Leigh) visits the Bates Motel and falls prey to one of cinema’s most notorious psychopaths – Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). Named #1 on the AFI’s 100 Years…100 Thrills list, this notorious film has become a cultural phenomenon. Featuring one of the most iconic scenes in film history – the famous “shower scene”, Psycho is “still terrifying after all these years” (Leonard Maltin’s Classic Movie Guide).

Be prepared to see one of the scariest movies of all time at a special event that includes exclusive insights from Turner Classic Movies.

The Ridgefield Playhouse is following Connecticut Safety Guidelines in order to continually serve and protect our patrons and community. We ask that you observe the following:

Keep it “contactless” and save money! Tickets purchased online are only $10! Please purchase your tickets online and you’ll save $2!
Purchase concession via our mobile site ridgefieldplayhouse.ordernext.com. Available up to two hours prior to the start of the movie- you can pick up your concessions on your way in! The app will be open throughout the film as well.
Ushers will seat you – All tickets are General Admission.
Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the lobby and bathrooms.
And remember: FACEMASKS ARE REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES! Please maintain a 6 foot distance from others.

Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series

Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sharon Stone, Ronny Cox and Michael Ironside, the film tells the story of a construction worker who suddenly finds himself embroiled in espionage on Mars and unable to determine if the experiences are real or the result of memory implants. Adapted from Philip K. Dick’s short novel, We Can Remember It For You Wholesale, TOTAL RECALL is a truly visionary film ahead of its time. Featuring a career best performance from the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger, the film was restored from a scan of the original 35mm negative and was made at Technicolor LA in tiff 16 bits format. Color-grading was supervised by Jérome Bigleur at Hiventy. The restoration crew paid particularly high attention to preserve special effect continuity. This special 30th anniversary event includes an exclusive introduction from director Paul Verhoeven.

The Ridgefield Playhouse is following Connecticut Safety Guidelines in order to continually serve and protect our patrons and community. We ask that you observe the following:

Keep it “contactless” and save money! Tickets purchased online are only $10! Please purchase your tickets online and you’ll save $2!
Purchase concession via our mobile site ridgefieldplayhouse.ordernext.com. Available up to two hours prior to the start of the movie- you can pick up your concessions on your way in! The app will be open throughout the film as well.
Ushers will seat you – All tickets are General Admission.
Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the lobby and bathrooms.
And remember: FACEMASKS ARE REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES! Please maintain a 6 foot distance from others.

Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH COMPASSIONATE RIDGEFIELD

Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Daniela Sikora & Keitha Kinne, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
In addition to the film, there will be bonus content consisting of a post interview led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

Akeelah Anderson (Keke Palmer) is a precocious 11-year-old girl from south Los Angeles with a gift for words. Despite the objections of her mother Tanya (Angela Bassett), Akeelah enters various spelling contests, for which she is tutored by the forthright Dr. Larabee (Laurence Fishburne); her principal Mr. Welch and the proud residents of her neighborhood. Akeelah’s aptitude earns her an opportunity to compete for a spot in the Scripps National Spelling Bee and in turn unites her neighbors who witness the courage and inspiration of one amazing little girl. Doug Atchison directs this award-winning film.

In addition to being shown after the film in the theater, our bonus content, sponsored by People’s United Bank, will also be available on our YouTube channel for anyone to watch from home. The bonus content for Akeelah and the Bee will consist of an interview with cognitive psychotherapist, speaker & writer Niro Feliciano led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

TWO SHOWINGS: 5:30PM & 8:30PM

This event will be socially-distanced with seating under a tent on the field next to The Playhouse.  Chairs are provided for all ticket holders and will be pre-assigned based on the date of ticket purchase. Members will receive priority seating.

Two incredible comics take the stage for one unforgettable and hilarious night!  Whitney Cummings and Taylor Tomlinson unite to bring their Codependent Tour to The Ridgefield Playhouse in an outdoor “theater” under the tent on the field next to the venue. Whitney Cummings is best known for creating and starring in the NBC series “Whitney,” she also co-created and co-wrote (with Michael Patrick King) the Emmy-nominated CBS comedy series “2 Broke Girls.”  In November 2019, Whitney launched her own podcast titled “Good For You” which features Whitney sitting down to interview both her friends and experts from a variety of fields. Whitney debuted her fourth stand up special, “Can I Touch It?” on Netflix in July 2019. The special featured Whitney’s take on everything, including her signature incisive commentary on gender dynamics and why we should give sex robots a chance. In October 2017, Whitney debuted her novel “I’m Fine…And Other Lies,” which detailed her brutal anxiety and codependency disorder, written with her trademark entertaining wit, humor, and honesty. That same year, Whitney made her directorial debut with the feature adaptation of LouannBrizendine’s best-seller, “The Female Brain”.  In addition to co-writing and directing, she stars alongside Sofia Vergara, James Marsden, Lucy Punch, Toby Kebbell, Cecily Strong, Beanie Feldstein, and Blake Griffin. “The Female Brain” comically details the inner workings and complex power of brain chemistry among couples at different stages of their relationships.

Taylor Tomlinson is too funny to be 25. Her perspective possesses a degree of wisdom that’s typically earned with age.  Tomlinson has been featured on the Tonight Show, Conan, MTV’s Safe Word, Comedy Central’s Adam Devine’s House Party, was a top ten finalist on season 9 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing, and was recently honored as one of Variety’s top ten comics to watch at the prestigious JFL Montreal Comedy Festival. Taylor started doing stand-up at just 16 years old and has been letting comedy slowly ruin her life ever since. She is currently one of the country’s youngest touring headliners, delighting audiences coast-to-coast with her sharp crowdwork, biting wit, and wonderfully self-deprecating point of view. Tomlinson co-hosts The Self-Helpless Podcast and you can now watch her Netflix 15 minute special. Taylor’s new hour-long Netflix special, “Quarter Life Crisis,” debuted in February 2020, adding another red-letter win to her already impressive comedic resume.

Doyle Coffin Architecture Singer Songwriter Series
Pepsi Rock Series powered by Xfinity
Outdoors – seated under The Playhouse tent

After her sold out Dylanology show in 2019, seven time Grammy Award-nominee, Joan Osborne, returns to The Ridgefield Playhouse for an outdoor performance with her first album of original music in six years! Trouble and Strife, her 10th studio album, is a deeply engaging collection of new songs about “the crazy, chaotic times we’re living in” according to Osborne. She broke through 25 years ago with the multi-platinum Relish and its touchstone mega-smash “One of Us.” Since then she has gone on to explore a diverse range of genres: pop, rock, R&B, blues, roots, gospel, funk and country – all of which can be heard on Trouble and Strife. Joan Osborne has never been an artist confined to one space. She has utilized her incredible voice through her own songs while also becoming one of her generation’s finest interpreters. Osborne has shared the stage with artists ranging from Stevie Wonder and Mavis Staples to Bob Dylan and Lucinda Williams and she continues to seamlessly blend into any genre.

Kicking off the night is singer-songwriter Stephen Kellogg. Over the last decade, the New England native has performed more than 2,000 concerts around the world, raised thousands of dollars for causes close to his heart, been named Armed Forces Entertainer of the Year, and penned singles for artists like platinum selling rock band O.A.R and American Idol winner Nick Fradiani. Stephen’s most recent writing work with legendary guitarist Robert Randolph, led to a Grammy nomination for “Best Contemporary Blues Record.” He has also had his songs covered by international major label acts and released ten studio albums of his own yielding hundreds of thousands of ticket and record sales.

Steven Spielberg’s beloved film returns to the big screen! Join Elliot (Henry Thomas), Gertie (Drew Barrymore) and Michael (Robert MacNaughton) as they come together to help E.T. find his way back home. Winning four Academy Awards, including one for the iconic score by John Williams. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is “one of the great American films” (Leonard Maltin) that forever belongs in the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere.

The Ridgefield Playhouse is following Connecticut Safety Guidelines in order to continually serve and protect our patrons and community. We ask that you observe the following:

Keep it “contactless” and save money! Tickets purchased online are only $10! Please purchase your tickets online and you’ll save $2!
Purchase concession via our mobile site ridgefieldplayhouse.ordernext.com. Available up to two hours prior to the start of the movie- you can pick up your concessions on your way in! The app will be open throughout the film as well.
Ushers will seat you – All tickets are General Admission.
Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the lobby and bathrooms.
And remember: FACEMASKS ARE REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES! Please maintain a 6 foot distance from others.

Bruce Bennett Nissan Family Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH THE KEELER TAVERN

Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
Q&A HOSTED BY CHERYL WASHINGTON

Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. A powerful and thought-provoking true story, “Just Mercy” follows young lawyer Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) and his history-making battle for justice. After graduating from Harvard, Bryan had his pick of lucrative jobs. Instead, he heads to Alabama to defend those wrongly condemned or who were not afforded proper representation, with the support of local advocate Eva Ansley (Brie Larson). One of his first, and most incendiary, cases is that of Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), who, in 1987, was sentenced to die for the notorious murder of an 18-year-old girl, despite a preponderance of evidence proving his innocence and the fact that the only testimony against him came from a criminal with a motive to lie. In the years that follow, Bryan becomes embroiled in a labyrinth of legal and political maneuverings and overt and unabashed racism as he fights for Walter, and others like him, with the odds-and the system-stacked against them.

In addition to being shown after the film in the theater, our bonus content, sponsored by People’s United Bank, will also be available on our YouTube channel for anyone to watch from home. The bonus content for “Just Mercy” will consist of an interview with Karen Boykin-Towns, Vice Chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Board of Directors, led by Entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

Adam Broderick Salon & Spa Whole New You Series with support from Reliance Merchant Services
Classes @ The Playhouse Series
HamletHub Community Events Series

Professional Music Industry Performance and Songwriting Zoom Workshop with Samantha Cole and A.J. Gundell

5 Weeks: Wednesdays, October 21 – November 25 | from 7 – 9 pm

Hosted by Celebrity Voice Coach and International recording artist/songwriter Samantha Cole, and 13- time Emmy award-winning songwriter, producer, and music supervisor, One-Stop Music Shop owner, A.J. Gundell. The Zoom class returns by popular demand! If you are a singer looking to learn vocal mastery and proper technique, or a songwriter, musician or producer interested in the fundamentals of songwriting and music licensing–this class Is custom made for you. Learn these things and more from seasoned professionals Samantha and A.J. and their combined years of music industry experience and success. This professional five-week workshop takes place in five weekly sessions each two hours long: the goal is for each participant to complete one song from start to finish, and perfect their vocal performance in the process. Very special guest speaker, ex-Senior VP of A&R (RCA, Sony, Universal) Dave Novik will join Cole and Gundell at the last session–to provide insightful marketing and promotion secrets while also helping address the ins and outs of licensing. Take advantage of this amazing opportunity to be mentored while learning the art of songwriting and performing from accomplished industry professionals.

Sing like a Pro
Breathing techniques, singing and performance tips and voice care with possible performance opportunity for professional feedback.

Write like a Pro
Songwriting basics. Overview of song form, structure, lyric/melody/chords/beats/rhythm. Individual option for songwriting professional feedback based on introductory elements.

Manage your music like a Pro
Music Business 101: special Q & A in the last session. Take your introductory skills to the next level of success in the digital age. Licensing, releasing, marketing, promotion and artist development questions will be answered by Samantha, A.J. and Dave.

Scholarships available through the generosity of the Beth and Bruce Becker Scholarship Fund.
Register online or by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

Pepsi Rock Series powered by Xfinity
Outdoors – seated under The Playhouse tent – 4pm and 7:30pm

This event will be socially-distanced with seating under a tent on the field next to The Playhouse. Chairs are provided for all ticket holders and will be pre-assigned based on the date of ticket purchase. Members will receive priority seating.

“A pioneer of San Francisco psychedelia, Jorma Kaukonen is a bonafide graybeard folk swami. He mostly lays back, a master in situ, unfurling melodies and savoring every note.” – Rolling Stone Magazine

As a founding member of both Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, and one of Rolling Stones’ 100 Greatest Guitarists, Jorma Kaukonen has remained one the most respected interpreters of American roots, blues and rock for more than 50 years. Kaukonen was at the forefront of popular rock and roll, helping to define the San Francisco sound and a progenitor of Psychedelic Rock. He is a music legend and one of the finest singer-songwriters in his field. Kaukonen continues to tour the world – both solo and with Hot Tuna – bringing his unique styling to old blues tunes while presenting new songs of weight and dimension. His secret is in playing spontaneous and unfiltered music, with an individual expression of personality.

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH THE RIDGEFIELD INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL

Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Daniela Sikora & Keitha Kinne, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
In addition to the film, there will be bonus content consisting of a post interview led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

Ava DuVernay directs this award winning historical drama. SELMA is the story of a movement. The film chronicles the tumultuous three-month period in 1965, when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led a dangerous campaign to secure equal voting rights in the face of violent opposition. The epic march from Selma to Montgomery culminated in President Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965, one of the most significant victories for the civil rights movement. Director Ava DuVernays SELMA tells the real story of how the revered leader and visionary Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo) and his brothers and sisters in the movement prompted change that forever altered history.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE
Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Daniela Sikora & Keitha Kinne, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
In addition to the film, there will be bonus content consisting of a post interview led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

Get Out was recognized as one of the top 10 films of 2017 by the National Board of Review and the American Film Institute. Get Out received 39 major nominations in 2018, winning 17 awards including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay by writer and director Jordan Peele. Now that Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya) and his girlfriend, Rose Armitage (Allison Williams), have reached the meet-the-parents milestone of dating, she invites him for a weekend getaway upstate with Missy and Dean. At first, Chris reads the family’s overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter’s interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he could have never imagined.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

Diversity Film Series
Cohen and Wolf P.C. Movie Series
PRESENTED IN COOPERATION WITH THE RIDGEFIELD CHORALE

Sponsored by Anita and Nick Donofrio, Ann and Steve Carlson, Daniela Sikora & Keitha Kinne, Allison and Jon Stockel, Julie and David Peck, People’s Bank, Ridgefield Prevention Council and the Town of Ridgefield
In addition to the film, there will be bonus content consisting of a post interview led by entertainment reporter Cheryl Washington.

Barry Jenkins directs the 2017 Academy Award winner for Best Picture. Starring Mahershala Ali – 2017 Best Supporting Actor Academy Award Winner, Janelle Monae, Trevante Rhodes. The tender, heartbreaking story of a young man’s struggle to find himself, told across three defining chapters in his life as he experiences the ecstasy, pain, and beauty of falling in love, while grappling with his own sexuality.

Tickets are FREE, but must be reserved in advance by calling the box office at 203.438.5795

RESCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2020 – 6:30 PM

A fantastic evening of music, dining, and dancing in celebration of the RSO’s 55th season!
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, FUN FOR ALL!
Classical with Signature Cocktail, Wine & Beer
Jazz with Buffet Dinner catered by Sarah Bouissou Catering
DJ Disco for Dancing and Dessert
Silent Auction & 20/21 Season Reveal
Dress: Smart Casual or Festive

Tickets: $150 per person.
To purchase tickets click here.