A.C.T. of Connecticut Ridgefield, CT
A.C.T. (A Contemporary Theatre) OF CONNECTICUT
Artistic Director
Daniel C. Levine
Book by JESSIE NELSON
Producing Director R. Erin Craig
Based upon the motion picture written by Adrienne Shelly
Orchestrations by
Sara Bareilles & The Waitress Band
Music by Arrangement with Sony Music Publishing
Starring
Abigail Sparrow Amma Osei Shaylen Harger John Alejandro Jeffords Cody Jenkins Maeve Marbury David Sitler Wesley Slade Joseph Torello
Raúl Calderón Liz Davis Tara Forseth Kai Horvit Lauren Marut Val Moranto
Jason Ivan Rodriguez Ariana Valdes Justin Waite Christopher Brian Williams
Scenic Designer
KRISTEN MARTINO
Sound Designer
SHANNON SLATON
Music Director
Costume Designer LESLIE BERNSTEIN
Wig Designer
CARISSA THORLAKSON
NICHOLAS CONNORS
Lighting Designer DALTON HAMILTON
Music and Lyrics by SARA BAREILLES Casting JASON STYRES THE CASTING COLLABORATIVE
Production Stage Manager KATIE GIRARDOT
Director / Choreographer SARA BRIANS
Originally Produced on Broadway by Barry and Fran Weissler Norton and Elayne Herrick
David I. Berley, Independent Presenters Network, A.C. Orange International, Peter May, Michael Roiff, Ken Schur, Marisa Sechrest, Jam Theatricals, 42nd.club/Square 1 Theatrics, Benjamin Simpson & Joseph Longthorne/Shira Friedman, Alecia Parker, Executive Producer
Original motion picture produced by Michael Roiff/Night & Day Pictures World premiere produced by the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University, August 2, 2015 Diane Paulus, Artistic Director; Diane Borger, Producer; Peter Duchan, Script Consultant for A.R.T. Production
WAITRESS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
MUSICAL NUMBERS
ACT ONE
“What’s Inside” ....................................................................................... Jenna and Company
“Opening Up” ............................................................. Jenna, Becky, Dawn, Cal and Company
“The Negative” ......................................................................................... Jenna, Becky, Dawn
“What Baking Can Do” ................................................................................................... Jenna
“When He Sees Me” ............................................................................... Dawn and Company
“It Only Takes a Taste” ........................................................................ Dr. Pomatter and Jenna
“You Will Still Be Mine” .................................................................................... Earl and Jenna
“A Soft Place to Land” .............................................................................. Jenna, Becky, Dawn
“Never Ever Getting Rid of Me” ................................................................ Ogie and Company
“Bad Idea” ......................................................................... Jenna, Dr. Pomatter and Company
ACT TWO
“I Didn’t Plan It” ............................................................................................................. Becky
“Bad Idea” (Reprise) ................................................................................................. Company
“You Matter to Me” ........................................................................... Dr. Pomatter and Jenna
“I Love You Like a Table” ............................................................... Ogie, Dawn, and Company
“Take It From an Old Man” ......................................................................... Joe and Company
“She Used to Be Mine” .................................................................................................. Jenna
“Everything Changes” ....................................................... Jenna, Becky, Dawn and Company
“Opening Up” (Finale) .............................................................................................. Company
WAITRESS is rated PG-13, may be inappropriate for children age 13 and younger
WAITRESS will run approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes with one 20 minute intermission
Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited
Late seating and/or re-entry to the theater will be at the discretion of management This production includes the use of water-based theatrical haze
Please silence your cellphones
CAST
(in order of appearance)
Jenna ........................................................................................................... ABIGAIL SPARROW
Cal ............ JOSEPH TORELLO*
Dawn .......................................................................................................... SHAYLEN HARGER*
Becky ..................................................................................................................... AMMA OSEI*
Joe DAVID SITLER*
Earl ..................................................................................................................... CODY JENKINS
Mother TARA FORSETH*
Nurse Norma ARIANA VALDES*
Dr. Pomatter ............................................................................. JOHN ALEJANDRO JEFFORDS*
Ogie WESLEY SLADE*
Lulu ............................................................................................................... MAEVE MARBURY
Ensemble ........................................................ TARA FORSETH*, KAI HORVIT, LAUREN MARUT, VAL MORANTO, JASON IVAN RODRIGUEZ, ARIANA VALDES*, JUSTIN WAITE, CHRISTOPHER BRIAN WILLIAMS*
Dance Captain LIZ DAVIS* Swings
RAÚL CALDERÓN, LIZ DAVIS*
Fight Captain KATIE GIRARDOT*
UNDERSTUDIES
For Jenna: TARA FORSETH*; for Dr. Pomatter: KAI HORVIT; for Dawn: LAUREN MARUT; for Cal: JASON IVAN RODRIGUEZ; for Becky: ARIANA VALDES*; for Joe: JOSEPH TORELLO*; for Ogie: JUSTIN WAITE; for Earl: CHRISTOPHER BRIAN WILLIAMS*
BAND
Conductor / Keyboard 1 NICHOLAS CONNORS
Keyboard 2 .......................................................................................................... NATHAN PERRY
Guitar 1 .................................................................................................... NICKLAS DICKERSON
Guitar 2 / Cello CAITLIN THOMAS
Bass ............................................................................................................... SHERISSE ROGERS
Drums / Percussion ......................................................................................... DARCY MACRAE
Synth Programmer DENNIS J. ARCANO
*Appearing through an Agreement between this theatre, A.C.T. of Connecticut, and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
THE CAST
Amma Osei
Abigail Sparrow
Shaylen Harger
John Alejandro Jeffords
Cody Jenkins
Wesley Slade
David Sitler
Joseph Torello
Maeve Marbury
Raúl Calderón
Tara Forseth
Liz Davis
Kai Horvit
Lauren Marut Val Moranto
Jason Ivan Rodriguez
Ariana Valdes Justin Waite
Christopher Brian Williams
A Note From the Artistic Director:
WelcometoWaitress!
I can’t think of a better production to close out our incredible 7th season here at A.C.T. of Connecticut. Waitress is a show that blends heart and humor, sorrow and sweetness - and it’s the perfect “final course” to a season that has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the high-octane thrill of Jersey Boys, to the emotional depth of Fiddler on the Roof, to the bold, original storytelling of Few Words: A Dance Cycle, this season has felt... different. In the best possible way. This year’s productions have resonated deeply with audiences, sparked conversation, and reminded us just how powerful live theater can be - not only to entertain, but to move, inspire, and connect us all.
To everyone who came along for the ride this season - thank you! Whether you’re a longtime subscriber of A.C.T. of CT or stepping into our theater for the very first time, I am deeply grateful for your presence and your belief in what we do. It is our privilege to create theater for you, and we never lose sight of how lucky we are to do it.
As we bring Waitress to life on our stage, our thoughts are already turning to the season ahead. What’s coming next is going to be truly thrilling - filled with compelling stories, bold artistic choices, and moments that will surprise, delight, and stay with you long after the final bow. I have no doubt that next season will move you just as deeply and memorably as this season has.
With another unforgettable season just around the corner, I hope you’ll be there with us every step of the way! Enjoy Waitress – and we will see you this fall for another season full of standing ovations and surprises!
With gratitude,
Daniel C. Levine
Artistic Director, A.C.T. of Connecticut
PRODUCTION STAFF
Director / Choreographer ......................................................................................... SARA BRIANS^
Music Director NICHOLAS CONNORS
Scenic Designer ................................................................................................ KRISTEN MARTINO+
Costume Designer LESLIE BERNSTEIN+
Lighting Designer ........................................................................................... DALTON HAMILTON+
Sound Designer SHANNON SLATON+
Wig / Hair / Makeup Designer .................................................................. CARISSA THORLAKSON
Technical Director MIKE DONATO
Associate Director / Choreographer ................................................................... ALEX HARTMAN
Assistant Costume Designer / Production Wardrobe Supervisor JILLIAN MITCHELL
Wardrobe Supervisor .................................................................................................. KAT VACCARO
Wig / Hair / Makeup Supervisor AMANDA JAYNE
Audio Supervisor ...................................................................................................... JACOB SANNER
Props Supervisor SIERRA SHEPHERD
Music Coordinator / Synth Programmer ....................................................... DENNIS J. ARCANO
Production Stage Manager KATIE GIRARDOT*
Assistant Stage Manager ................................................................................ TEAGAN DEGROEN*
Production Assistant SARAH RACHEL KATZ
A1 / Sound Mixer BREANNA FAIS
Assistant to Director RACHEL-MARIE STRAZZA
Rehearsal Production Assistant AJ JONES
Dresser / Wardrobe ................................................................................................. DEMARIE LOPEZ
Dresser / Wig Assistant AMELIA MCGEE
Wardrobe Assistant ................................................................................................... LILAH POSTON
A2 / Audio Assistant CECIL KNEEN
Associate Lighting Designer ............................................................................................ ABBY MAY
Head Electrician ADAM LOBELSON / CHROMA DESIGNS
Electricians .................................................... SOPHIE BARDOS, EVAN BRENNER, JAKOB KELSEY, ALEXIS MACCHIAROLI, JAMES PEREYRA
Stage Management Apprentice .................................................................................. FAITH RAND
Child Guardian MADDY GALGANO
Production Photographer ........................................................................................ JEFF BUTCHEN
Archival Videographer MATT GURREN
Poster and Artwork Designer ................................................................................ BILLY MITCHELL
Playbill Designer RYAN HONTZ
Playbill Printing ....................................................................................................... KENO GRAPHICS
Some costumes provided by TDF Costume Collection Rental
Props Package Designed By Jonathan Berg-Einhornand Built by Amaya Rocket for Skylight Music Theatre
Additional props provided by The Cape Playhouse
Keyboard Programming Rentals by KeyboardTEK
Specialty lighting equipment provided by Chroma Designs and 4Wall Entertainment Set Construction by Cigar Box Studios
^ represents a member of
+ represents a member of
* Appearing through an Agreement between this theatre, A.C.T. of Connecticut, and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
WHO’S WHO
ABIGAIL SPARROW (Jenna) is elated to be returning to A.C.T. of CT in this dream role and dream show. Abigail appeared in Rock of Ages as Sherrie in A.C.T. of CT’s 2023 season. A Brooklynite originally hailing from Los Angeles, California, Sparrow was most recently seen as an alternate Queen in Six the Musical with Mirvish Productions. Other credits include: SIX Norwegian Cruise Line, Rock of Ages at the Argyle, Jersey Boys at WPPAC. Along with being an accomplished actor, Sparrow is a producer, musician, and songwriter. You can find her music on all streaming platforms. Love to her family, friends, Talent House NYC, Bryan, Dan, Sara, and the Casting Collaborative. @abigailsparrowofficial
AMMA OSEI (Becky) most recently appeared onstage in the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife at Alliance Theatre. Broadway: Rock of Ages (Justice). National and International Tours: Pretty Woman (Violetta), Rock of Ages (Justice), Dreamgirls (Effie), Fame (Ms. Sherman). Selected Regional: Broadway at Music Circus, The Kennedy Center, Ogunquit Playhouse, Pittsburgh CLO, McCarterTheatre. TV: “FBI: Most Wanted.” Thanks to Whole Artist Management, Daniel Hoff Agency and my friends and family. @AmmaOseiNYC
SHAYLEN HARGER (Dawn) “I’m baaack!”
A.C.T. of CT Credits: Kinky Boots, Rock of Ages, and Godspell. Other credits: La Cage Aux Folles at MTC in Norwalk. Mamma Mia & Jesus Christ Superstar at CT Repertory Theatre in Storrs. Recent achievements: National television debut, FOX TV’s “I Can See Your Voice.” Japan national concert tour, Disney On Classic as “Belle” in Beauty & the Beast. Also, a wellknown Youtuber! Find her on IG and TikTok too! @shaylenharger
JOHN ALEJANDRO JEFFORDS (Dr. Pomatter)
NYC credits include: Babes in Toyland (Lincoln Center), An Axemas Story (The Players Theatre), Bombshell Baby (Ensemble Studio Theatre), More Than All the World (Theater for the New City). Regional: The Producers (Paper Mill Playhouse, Kansas City Starlight, Atlanta Theatre of the Stars, and more), Rock of Ages (ACCC), A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Santa Fe Playhouse). Thanks to Sara for believing in me. For Roxie and Simone.
CODY JENKINS (Earl) is making his debut at A.C.T. of CT and is thrilled to join this team! Texas native and Proud Graduate of Texas State University’s BFA Acting Program. Off-Broadway: I Put A Spell On You (Thackery Binx). International: RENT Japan 2024 Tour (Swing, Mark u/s). National Tour: RENT 25th Anniversary Tour (Mark), RENT 20th Anniversary Tour (Gordon, Roger u/s). Regional: Now & Then World Premiere at Island City Stages (Daniel #1), Footloose at MBT (Chuck Cranston). Cruise Ships: Norwegian Cruise Lines (Production Principal). Love and thanks to my PMA team, my friends, and my family! IG:@chefboycodyyy
DAVID SITLER (Joe) David is thrilled to be making his debut here at A.C.T. of CT. He has worked on Broadway, National tours, and coast to coast in over 165 productions in roles from Atticus to Scrooge. Film credits: “V13,” “60 Miles North,” and “Don’t Turn Out the Lights.” TV: “Little America,” “Diarra From Detroit,” “Hunters,” and “A Short Tutorial.” Thanks to BWA and this amazing Cast and Crew. Proud member of AEA. Enjoy the pie. www.davidsitler.com.
WESLEY SLADE (Ogie) is an improv comedian / puppeteer / voice over actor from Eastabuchie, Mississippi (yes, really!). Regional: SpongeBob SquarePants in The SpongeBob Musical (Broadway at Music Circus), Olaf in Frozen (Maltz Jupiter Theatre & The Gateway Playhouse), Mary Poppins, Beauty & the Beast (The MUNY), Igor in Young Frankenstein w/ Sally Struthers (La Mirada Theatre), his original one-man show, Happy Times: A Danny Kaye Tribute, and more. Wesley was seen on many stages at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando. He now resides in NYC with his dog, George. Special thanks to Team DGRW! @wesleyslade
JOSEPH TORELLO (Cal, u/s Joe) NYC Credits: Show Boat (Carnival Barker) and Carousel (Policeman) at Lincoln Center with the NY Philharmonic (both aired on “Live From Lincoln Center” on PBS); Guys & Dolls (Mission Quartet) alongside Nathan Lane & Megan Mullally at Carnegie Hall; The Golden Apple (Ensemble) with City Center Encores. He was seen in the world premiere of Other World and was re -
WHO’S WHO
cently in his 11th production of The Music Man, with 3 alongside Shirley Jones. Other favorites: Sweeney Todd (Sweeney), Smokey Joe’s Cafe (Fred), Billy Elliot (Big Davey). @torellojoe
MAEVE MARBURY (Lulu) thinks it’s sweeter than sugar to make her professional acting debut at A.C.T. of CT, right in her hometown! At age 2 she performed in Jesse Lee Day School’s holiday show and has loved the stage ever since. In 2024 she played Nemo in Wiremill Academy’s production of Finding Nemo. Ballet performances include local productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, A Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra and The Nutcracker.
RAÚL CALDERÓN (Swing) is excited to make his debut with A.C.T. of CT as a Swing in Waitress! CT Native, graduated at Western Connecticut State University with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre. Recent credits include Ensemble Swing in Jersey Boys (Phoenix Theatre Company), Calogero in A Bronx Tale (Seven Angels), and Joe Pesci (Frankie Vallie Understudy) in Jersey Boys (Emerald Coast Theatre Company). Thank you Mom and Dad! Instagram: @_raulcalderon_
LIZ DAVIS (Swing / Dance Captain) is thrilled to be making her A.C.T. of CT debut eating pie alongside a wonderful company! Last year, she travelled the country as the female swing on The Cher Show First National Tour. Other credits include Lucy/You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown, Tammy/Hairspray, Lorriane/Jersey Boys. Much love to all her friends and family. Inhale confidence, exhale doubt. :-) @lizzdavviss
TARA FORSETH (Mother, Ensemble, u/s Jenna) A.C.T. of Connecticut Debut! Select Credits: Irish Repertory Theatre: On A Clear Day...; Ford’s Theatre: Guys and Dolls; Guthrie Theater: Guys and Dolls; Phoenix Theatre: Bright Star; Adirondack Theatre Festival: Front Page Flo; Prologue Theatre/Next Stop Theatre: The Cake. Training: B.F.A. NYU Tisch. Many thanks to Jason Styres, the creative team, cast, and crew of Waitress, and everyone at A.C.T. Endless gratitude to family and friends. Love to Trevor. @tarakellyforseth (IG), www.taraforseth.com
KAI HORVIT (Ensemble, u/s Dr. Pomatter) is thrilled for their A.C.T. of Connecticut debut!
Recent credits include: Ensemble, u/s Andy Lee in 42nd Street and Fred/Young Scrooge/ Others in A Christmas Carol at Maltz Jupiter Theatre as well as the title role in Aladdin and Kristoff in Frozen with Disney Live Entertainment. Kai received their BFA from the Cincinnati-Conservatory of Music (CCM). Much love to family, friends, and HKA for support!
@kaihorvit
LAUREN MARUT (Ensemble, u/s Dawn) is so excited to be making her regional debut at A.C.T. of CT! She just graduated from Yale University with degrees in Ethnicity, Race, & Migration and Theater Studies. Television: “FBI: Most Wanted”. A huge thank you to her parents and the entire Waitress team.
IG: @laurenmarut
VAL MORANTO (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back at A.C.T. of CT!! Selected Regional & Tour: Anything Goes (Gulfshore Playhouse), Kinky Boots (Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach), Fiddler on the Roof, Sunset Boulevard, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Secret Garden, Kinky Boots (A.C.T. of CT), Sweeney Todd (Madison Lyric Stage: Broadway World “Best Actress in a Leading Role” nominee for Mrs. Lovett), The Who’s Tommy (International Tour), Les Miserables (Ogunquit Playhouse/Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach), Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Boston Premiere), Fiddler on the Roof (Ogunquit Playhouse/Fulton Theatre) and Mary Poppins (Arts Center Coastal Carolina in Hilton Head). Val can also be seen headlining at the Sanibel Music Festival with the Opera Theatre of CT, on Season 16 of “America’s Got Talent” & singing with Josh Groban on his Summer Harmony Tour! Proud graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music. She would like to thank Sara Brians, Daniel C. Levine, Bryan Perri, R. Erin Craig, Nicholas Connors and Jason Styres~The Casting Collaborative for this opportunity and her Husband Tj for his love & support!
JASON IVAN RODRIGUEZ (Ensemble, u/s Cal) is a NYC based performer from Hamilton, New Jersey. Previous credits include working with Tim Rice in the company of From Here to Eternity (Private Tucker/Tommy), Once on This Island (Daniel) at The Encore Musical Theatre Company, and In the Heights (Usnavi U/S, Ensemble) at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.
WHO’S WHO
He’d like to thank his friends and family who have helped him become a better performer and person. IG @jason__rodriguez__
ARIANA VALDES (Nurse Norma, Ensemble, u/s Becky) is a NYC-based multi-hyphenate creative originally from Connecticut, inspired and encouraged to pursue the arts by her late mother, costume designer Linda Worthington Valdes. National Tours: The Sound of Music (Mother Abbess u/s), My Fair Lady. Regional: In the Heights (Daniela - STAGES St. Louis/Pennsylvania Shakespeare/Westchester), Somewhere Over the Border (Julia - City Theatre/ People’s Light), Escape to Margaritaville (Tammy - Mill Mountain), Jerry Springer: The Opera (SpeakEasy Stage), Sister Act (Mary PatrickWPPAC/Arts Center of Coastal Carolina), Sister Act/TSOM (Paper Mill). Boston Conservatory. Gregg Baker Management. ArianaValdes.com | @arianavaldiva
JUSTIN WAITE (Ensemble, u/s Ogie) is a Long Island native and a graduate of SUNY Cortland with a BFA in Musical Theatre. A.C.T. of CT debut! Credits include Swing in Jersey Boys (The Argyle Theatre), Drifter in Beautiful: The Musical (Engeman Theatre, The Gateway, Fireside Theatre), Duane, Seaweed u/s in Hairspray (WPPAC), Mayor/Ja’Keith in Rock of Ages (Mountain Theatre Co), Doody in Grease (Clearspace). NYC Readings: Mr. Laird in The Bone Harp (Theatre Row). His favorite kind of pie is apple pie! He thinks it is crucial to share since the show deals with pie. Special thanks to the team at MSA and to his mother for all the love and support. @justinmwaite
CHRISTOPHER BRIAN WILLIAMS (Ensemble, u/s Earl) A.C.T. of CT debut! Christopher is delighted to join the cast of Waitress. He has been seen on Broadway in Billy Elliot. Off-Broadway as Chad in Bedbugs! The Rock Musical and Danny in Freckleface Strawberry. Regional credits include Fyedka in Fiddler on the Roof (Walnut Street), Ryan in High School Musical 2 (North Shore), featured roles at The Connecticut Opera, Hartford Stage, North Carolina Theatre, The MUNY, Gateway Playhouse and others. BFA from CCM. @christopherbrianwilliams. Christopherbrianwilliams.com.
SARA BRIANS (Director / Choreographer) is a New York City based director and choreog-
rapher, having directed and choreographed numerous musicals, industrials, concerts, and entertainment events world-wide. Most recently, Sara was the U.S. Associate Choreographer for the seven-time Tony nominated The Hills of California on Broadway directed by Sam Mendes. She was also recently Associate Director to Victoria Clark for Love Life at New York City Center Encores! and choreographed the inaugural production of Anything Goes at Gulfshore Playhouse’s new Baker Theatre. Sara has worked on seven Broadway shows as a performer, resident and associate choreographer (including 42nd Street, Billy Elliot the Musical, Matilda the Musical, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, The Terms of My Surrender, and After the Night and the Music), across the globe, and with prestigious institutions including The Radio City Rockettes, The Kennedy Center, New York City Center, Goodspeed Opera House, The 5th Avenue Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, Theatre Aspen and many more. Waitress marks Sara’s ninth production with A.C.T. of Connecticut after choreographing productions of Godspell, The Last Five Years, Snapshots, Jesus Christ Superstar, Guys and Dolls, Rock of Ages, Sunset Boulevard, and Few Words: A Dance Cycle. Please visit www. SaraBrians.com & @brianssarak on instagram for more!
NICHOLAS CONNORS (Music Director / Conductor / Keyboard 1) is a New York City-based Music Director and Composer. His Broadway credits include Almost Famous (Asst. Music Director), Kristin Chenoweth’s For the Girls (Assoc. Music Director, Orchestrations) and Mean Girls (Pianist). He has orchestrated music for Kristin Chenoweth, André De Shields, Lea Salonga, Jessica Vosk and many other stars of stage and screen. Nicholas recently received a Dramatists Guild Fellowship for musical theatre writing and is currently developing multiple new musicals. @Nick_Connors
KRISTEN MARTINO (Scenic Designer) is a Scenic Designer whose work has been showcased on stages across the country. She will be joining UT Knoxville in the fall as Assistant Professor of Scenic Design. Kristen spent several years as an associate designer in Chicago, giving her opportunities to work on museum exhibits and theatrical productions interna-
WHO’S WHO
tionally. Kristen is the recipient of the 2022 USITT Rising Star Award and is a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local 829. www.kristenmartino.com
LESLIE BERNSTEIN (Costume Designer) is thrilled to be back at A.C.T. of CT. Other credits include: The Secret Garden, Fiddler on the Roof, and Few Words: A Dance Cycle. Off-Broadway: Off Peak (59E59), Little Rock (Sheen Center), Wringer (City Center II), Band Of Angels and Wanda’s Monster (Mint Theater), Dory Fantasmagory, Interstellar Cinderella, and This is Sadie (Theater Row). Opera: La Boheme (Ash lawn Opera), The Magic Flute (Arizona, Hawaii, Madison, Kentucky and Pittsburgh Opera). Regional: West Side Story and A Little Night Music (Brevard Music Center), The Opposite of Sex (Co Pat Fields, Magic Theatre), The Harlem Nutcracker (Wiltern Theatre), Godspell (Syracuse Stage), Master Harold and The Boys (Portland Stage), Intimate Apparel (Arkansas Rep), 4000 Miles, Stones in His Pockets, The October Storm, Talley’s Folly, and Proof (Hudson Stage Co). Broadway: Associate: Disgraced (Lyceum), Domesticated (LCT), and WIT (MTC). lsbernstein.com
DALTON HAMILTON (Lighting Designer) works around the country designing lighting for a wide range of mediums from theater, opera, and dance to corporate events and theme park entertainment. Credits include: Bay Street Theater, Gulfshore Playhouse, Tuacahn Center for the Arts, Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Nashville Repertory Theatre, Ogunquit Playhouse, Free Fall Theatre, American Stage, Norwegian Cruise Line, City Springs Theatre Company, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Proud member of United Scenic Artists, Local USA-829. @dhlightingdesign daltonhamiltonlightingdesign.com
SHANNON SLATON (Sound Designer) on Broadway has designed Melissa Etheridge: My Window and The Illusionists as well as being the Associate Designer for The Humans, Blackbird and several other shows. He has also designed more than fifty national tours including: Shrek, The Producers, Kiss Me Kate, Noise/Funk, The Full Monty, Contact, A Chorus Line, Tap Dogs, Aeros, Sweeney Todd, The Wizard of Oz, The Drowsy Chaperone, and The Wedding Singer. Shows he mixed on Broadway include: Springsteen on Broadway, Man of La Mancha, Bombay Dreams,
A Christmas Carol, Sweet Charity, Jersey Boys, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Drowsy Chaperone, Spring Awakening, Fela!, Anything Goes, Annie, Legally Blonde, and Cabaret.
CARISSA THORLAKSON (Wig / Hair / Makeup Designer) is a New Jersey-based wig and makeup designer. Off-Broadway: Grand Hotel at New York City Center and Little Rock. Credits include: Walnut Street Theatre, The Old Globe, A.R.T., McCarter Theatre, Hartford Stage, Lookingglass Theatre Company, Two River Theatre, Bay Street Theatre, Delaware Theatre Company, Hudson Stage Company, Temple University, Olney Theatre Center, the University of Delaware REP, The Princeton Festival, American Repertory Ballet, Santa Fe Opera, Sarasota Opera, The Kennedy Center, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Signature Theatre, and Round House Theatre. Carissa also creates custom medical wigs, cosplay wigs, and teaches classes in wigs and makeup. CThorwigs.com. @wigician
DENNIS J. ARCANO (Music Coordinator / Synth Programmer) Dennis has served as the music coordinator for A.C.T. of CT since their opening in 2018 and has also played drums/ percussion for fourteen A.C.T. productions, including the Grammy Nominated World Premiere recording of Snapshots: A Musical Scrapbook. Broadway/Off-Broadway: Death Becomes Her, Kimberly Akimbo, Almost Famous, Mr. Saturday Night, Jagged Little Pill, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Altar Boyz, Tick, Tick… Boom!, Follies (2001 Revival). National Tour: Tick, Tick…Boom! (Assistant Musical Director). Regional: Candlewood Playhouse, Barrington Stage Company, Goodspeed’s Norma Terris Theater. All my love to Melina.
KATIE GIRARDOT (Production Stage Manager / Fight Captain) is excited to be back at A.C.T. of CT alongside this incredible company of Waitress! Nat’l Tour: Girl From the North Country, Jagged Little Pill; Off Broadway: Becoming Eve (NYTW), We Live in Cairo (NYTW), Leo Reich: Literally Who Cares?!, One Woman Show; International: Drop Dead Gorgeous, Book of Mountains and Seas, Christopher Hall: Girl For All Seasons Love to her incredible circle of support, may we all be so lucky. For Duckie. @ktg45
TEAGAN DEGROEN (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to be returning to A.C.T. of CT to close
WHO’S WHO
out the season with Waitress! Select Credits include Becoming Eve (NYTW), West Side Story, The Color Purple, The Music Man, Suessical (Pittsburgh CLO), Joseph… Dreamcoat, Beauty & The Beast (New Bedford Festival Theatre), Rent, ≈[Almost Equal To], Ride The Cyclone, The 25th Annual… Spelling Bee (Pittsburgh Playhouse). Point Park University alum! Huge thanks to Katie and Sarah. With love and gratitude! @teagandegroen
THE CASTING COLLABORATIVE (Casting) Broadway: A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Tony Award), Dames at Sea, Lion King, Nice Work... TV/Film: “Severance” (Apple TV+), “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (Netflix), “Carousel” (PBS), “Six by Sondheim” (HBO), “SYTYCD”, “How You Look at It”. Off-Broadway: Gatsby, Little Girl Blue, Puffs, Midnight at the Never Get, Pedro Pan, Apple Boys, Missed Connections, 15 different Encores! productions. Tours: A Gentleman’s Guide…, Sugar Skull, West Side Story, Anastasia, Fiddler on the Roof, Yemandja, The King and I, Cinderella, The Lion King, White Christmas. Other: Dance Lab New York, In Pieces, Magic Mike Live (London/Las Vegas), Bridgerton Experience, Wild (Black Iris Project), Phish (MSG), Arkansas Rep, Arrow Rock Lyceum, Virginia Theatre Festival, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Syracuse Stage, and more. www.thecastingcollab.com
DANIEL C. LEVINE (A.C.T. of CT Artistic Director) is a 2022 Grammy Nominee and thrilled to serve as Artistic Director of A.C.T. of CT. Before co-founding A.C.T. of CT in 2018 (along with Katie Diamond and Bryan Perri), Daniel appeared on Broadway and in the Broadway National Tours of: Mamma Mia!, Little Shop of Horrors, The Rocky Horror Show, Jesus Christ Superstar (Tony Nomination For Best Revival), Chicago, Les Misérables, and The Who’s Tommy. Daniel was nominated for Best Actor in a Musical by The League of American Theaters and Producers, for his role as Cousin Kevin in Tommy. He also originated the role of Mary Sunshine in the Broadway National tour of Chicago. Daniel has worked extensively across the country including: Oklahoma! (5th Avenue, Seattle), Next To Normal (Seven Angels Theater), Guys and Dolls (The Ordway Theater, Minneapolis), Company (5th Avenue, Seattle), Man of La Mancha (Cleveland Playhouse), Sweet Charity (West Virginia Public), Jesus Christ Superstar
(North Carolina Theater/Kansas City Starlight), Joseph.....Dreamcoat (North Shore Music Theater, Boston), and Evita (Music Theater of CT). Daniel is the creator/producer/director of Broadway Backstage!, Dancin’ Broadway, and American Dance Spectacular!– all of which have toured throughout the U.S. He is the creator/ director of Born To Dance, a multi-media production performed throughout the fleet of ships on Princess Cruise Lines, in collaboration with Stephen Schwartz. At The Ridgefield Playhouse, Daniel directed Tommy, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and An Evening With Joel Grey, and also served as the moderator and host for An Evening With The Celebrity Housewives. At A.C.T. of CT, Daniel has directed Mamma Mia!, Evita (2018 Broadway World CT Best Director of a Musical winner), Working (which he re-conceived with Stephen Schwartz), Godspell, Snapshots, Into the Woods, Jesus Christ Superstar, Rent, Guys and Dolls, The Secret Garden (2023 CT Critics Circle Award for Best Direction of a Musical winner), Sunset Boulevard, Fiddler on the Roof, and Few Words: A Dance Cycle. Daniel returned to his performing roots and played “The Dentist” in A.C.T.’s production of Little Shop of Horrors, and was also thrilled to star alongside Katie Diamond and Bryan Perri in The Last Five Years. Daniel was nominated for a Grammy Award for the cast album recording of A.C.T. of CT’s Snapshots (now available on-demand on BroadwayHD). Daniel’s reconceived version of Working was licensed by Music Theater International and theaters around the country are now producing and presenting A.C.T.‘s version of the musical. Daniel graduated Brandeis University and attended Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. www.danielclevine.com
BRYAN PERRI (A.C.T. of CT Resident Music Supervisor) is an award-winning musician. Perhaps most known as a Music Supervisor, Orchestrator, Arranger, Music Director, and Conductor, he is also an American Composer. His debut album, “Few Words” is available on all streaming platforms. On Broadway, Bryan served as the Music Supervisor and Conductor of Almost Famous. The world premiere at San Diego’s Old Globe earned him the prestigious Craig Noel Award for Best Music Direction. He also served as Music Director and Conductor of Jagged Little Pill, a production that earned
WHO’S WHO
nine Tony nominations. His extensive Broadway credits extend to the hit musical Wicked, where he spent nearly a decade music directing, and the original company of Chaplin, for which he not only served as Music Director, but Dance and Vocal Arranger. He also served as Music Director for the Broadway National Tour of Next to Normal, starring Tony Award winner Alice Ripley. Off-Broadway credits include Superhero, Dogfight, and Vanities all at 2nd Stage Theater. He was Music Supervisor for Disney’s Freaky Friday premiering at the Signature Theater in D.C., Limelight at the La Jolla Playhouse, and Music Supervisor and Co-Orchestrator for the World Premiere of the critically acclaimed new musical, The Lonely Few at the Geffen Playhouse. Bryan music directed Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Anthony Davis’s new musical Shimmer, and also served as Music Supervisor and Co-Orchestrator of Empire Records which premiered at The McCarter Theatre. Bryan is the Music Director and Arranger for notable artists like Aaron Tveit, Lauren Patten, and Jessica Vosk. He’s performed with them in venues including the American Songbook series at Lincoln Center, House of Blues, Irving Plaza, Webster Hall, and the London Palladium. Bryan was also nominated (along with Daniel C. Levine and Stephen Schwartz) for a Grammy Award for the world premiere cast recording of Stephen Schwartz’s Snapshots (an A.C.T. of CT production). Furthermore, Bryan has collaborated with his husband, Daniel C. Levine, the Artistic Director of A.C.T. of CT, on several successful productions, including the creation of Born to Dance (in association with Stephen Schwartz), currently running on the Princess Cruise Line fleet. Bryan is proud to be a Founding Member of A.C.T. of CT and is honored to serve as Resident Music Supervisor for past seasons including Mamma Mia!, Evita, Working, Spelling Bee, Little Shop of Horrors, Nickel Mines, Godspell, Into the Woods, The Last Five Years, Rent, Jesus Christ Superstar, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Guys and Dolls, The Secret Garden, Sunset Boulevard, Kinky Boots, Jersey Boys, and Fiddler on the Roof. Bryan has also musically directed concert productions of Tommy, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Jesus Christ Superstar (all directed by Daniel C. Levine). Bryan made his Carnegie Hall debut
this year conducting an orchestra in a breathtaking performance of his own composition, “Few Words”. Bryan is also the creator of A.C.T. of CT’s Broadway Unplugged series, which has become an audience favorite, and serves as Advisor on a $30,000 musician grant for the Posthumous Prodigy Productions Fellowship Award. Bryan holds a Bachelor of Music from NYU in Vocal Performance, as well as a Master’s Degree in Music from Cincinnati Conservatory of Music in Orchestral Conducting. His passion for music extends beyond the stage, as he enjoys teaching music in various forms to individuals of all ages, particularly through A.C.T. of CT’s Conservatory Program. Above all, Bryan firmly believes that theater matters and the arts are essential!
R. ERIN CRAIG (A.C.T. of CT Producing Director) has spent her career to date developing, mentoring, and producing new artists and works through her work as Producer, Executive Producer, General Manager, Production Manager, and Consultant for theatre, film, music, and special events for nearly 30 years. Current commercial projects include: Austen’s Pride (A.C.T. of CT 2019) which will be launching a pre-Broadway tour in St. Louis this summer, and a new play by Ed Schmidt called Mr. Rickey Calls A Meeting. Select past Broadway and Off-Broadway projects include: In the Heights, High Fidelity, The Velocity of Autumn, The Evolution of Mann, Right Before I Go, Himself and Nora, Stalking the Bogeyman, The Jazz Age, Irena’s Vow, “How We Got Away With It” (feature film), “Easter Mysteries” (musical film), Chicago, Annie Get Your Gun (with Bernadette Peters and Tom Wopat). Member-Broadway League, Off-Broadway League, Theatre Resources Unlimited (TRU). Educator and Mentor. Houses on the Moon Theater Company, Board Member. Founder & owner of La Vie Productions. www.lavieproductions.com
JESSIE NELSON (Book) wrote the musical Waitress with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles. The show played on Broadway for 4 years and moved to the West End in London. Sara and Jessie went on to create the show “Little Voice” which they Executive Produced with JJ Abrams for Apple TV. Jessie wrote, directed and produced “Corrina Corrina” and “I Am Sam” starring Sean Penn, who received
WHO’S WHO
an Academy Award nomination for his performance. Among her other directing credits are “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “Love, the Coopers” with Diane Keaton. Her writing credits include “Step Mom” and “The Story of Us.” She produced “Fred Claus” and “Danny Collins.” In London, Jessie directed Alice By Heart which she co-wrote with Steven Sater with music by Duncan Sheik at the National Theater Connections Program and again at MCC in NYC. She began her career as an actress at the Public Theater working with the award-winning experimental theater Mabou Mines and at the New York Shakespeare Festival. She wrote the children’s book Labracadabra. She has been the artistic Director of the Sundance Screen Writers Lab.
SARA BAREILLES (Music and Lyrics) can next be seen starring in the upcoming Tina Fey’s series, “GIRLS5EVA.” Bareilles first achieved mainstream critical praise in 2007 with her widely successful hit “Love Song,” which reached No. 1 in 22 countries around the world from her debut album Little Voice. Since then, Sara has gone on to receive seven Grammy® nominations throughout her career, which include Song of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for “Love Song” and one Album of the Year for her highly acclaimed third studio album, The Blessed Unrest. Her book, Sounds Like Me: My Life (So Far) in Song, was released in the fall of 2015 by Simon & Schuster and is a New York Times best seller. Making her Broadway debut Sara composed the music and lyrics for Waitress, for which she received her first Tony® Award nomination for Best Score and a 2017 Grammy® Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album. She also made her Broadway acting debut in 2017 by stepping into the lead role in Waitress. 2018 was a big year for Sara, she co-hosted the Tony Awards®, was nominated for an Emmy® and Grammy ® for her role in Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert and was awarded with the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s Hal David Starlight Award. Sara also teamed up with Apple as an executive producer for Little Voice, a 10-episode series, for which she created the original music. What’s Inside: Songs from Waitress, her most recent solo studio album, is out on Epic Records. On April 5, 2019 Sara released
her fifth full-length and first album of original material since 2013, entitled Amidst the Chaos. For this latest body of work, she joined forces in the studio with legendary Academy® Award-winning producer T Bone Burnett. As a result, the album spotlights her voice as a singer and storyteller like never before, while making an enduring statement.
ADRIENNE SHELLY (Original Motion Picture Writer) We celebrate Adrienne Shelly as the writer of the 2007 film Waitress. An actor (“Trust”) and director (“Waitress”, “I’ll Take You There”, “Sudden Manhattan”) for almost 20 years, she conceived the film while pregnant with her daughter Sophie (Lulu in the film), for whom she wrote it as a “love letter” in just two weeks. Adrienne’s legacy includes The Adrienne Shelly Foundation, created after she died in 2006 to support Women Filmmakers. It’s awarded 60+ production grants to talented women all over the world. Please visit www.adrienneshellyfoundation.org to honor Adrienne’s memory and support ASF’s critical artistic mission.
SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING established in 1995 as a joint venture between Sony and Michael Jackson, is the world’s leading music publisher. Sony owns or administers more than two million copyrights, including those from such iconic music catalogs as EMI Music Publishing, Leiber & Stoller, Mijac Music, Motown and Famous Music. Sony controls many of the best-known songs ever written, including “New York, New York,” “All You Need Is Love,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Over the Rainbow” and “Stand By Me.” In addition, Sony represents the copyrights of such legendary artists as The Beatles, Leonard Cohen, Neil Diamond, Bob Dylan, Michael Jackson, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Queen, The Rolling Stones, Sting, The Supremes, Hank Williams and Stevie Wonder, among others. Its ever-growing list of chart-topping artists and songwriters includes Alicia Keys, Lady Gaga, P!nk, Shakira, and Taylor Swift.
MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL (MTI) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres from around the world the rights to perform the greatest
WHO’S WHO
selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is a driving force in advancing musical theatre as a vibrant and engaging art form. MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 100,000 professional, community and school theatres in the US and in over 150 countries worldwide. MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre, and has created special collections to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences. MTI’s Broadway Junior® shows are 30and 60-minute musicals for performance by elementary and middle school-aged performers, while MTI’s School Editions are musicals annotated for performance by high school students. MTI maintains its global headquarters in New York City with additional offices in London (MTI Europe) and Melbourne (MTI Australasia).
ACTORS EQUITY ASSOCIATION
(AEA), founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers. Equity fosters the art of live theatre as an essential component of society and advances the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. Actors’ Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions.
STAGE DIRECTORS AND CHOREOGRA-
PHERS
SOCIETY
(SDC) is the theatrical union that unites, empowers, and protects professional Stage Directors and Choreographers throughout the United States. Its mission is to foster a national community of professional stage directors and choreographers by protecting rights, health and livelihoods of all its Members; negotiating and enforcing employment agreements across a range of jurisdictions; facilitating the exchange of ideas, information and opportunities; and educating current and future generations about the critical role of directors and choreographers in leading the field.
A.C.T. OF CONNECTICUT is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) professional theatre located in Ridgefield, CT. Founded in 2018 by Katie Diamond, Daniel C. Levine and Bryan Perri, and along with the more recent addition of R. Erin Craig, A.C.T. of CT presents limited engagement runs of well-known musicals, as well as world-premiere productions by the next generation of writers and composers. In addition to fully produced mainstage productions, A.C.T. of CT’s programming also includes a New Works Series, a Broadway Unplugged Series, and an extensive theater education program. With its 184 seats and turntable stage, the theater offers an intimate, unique, and immersive theatrical experience for its patrons. Given the proximity to New York City, A.C.T. of CT has access to top theatre talent and professionals. In just six seasons, A.C.T. of CT has become one of the most well-known and highly respected regional theatres in the area and received a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album for the cast album of their 2021 production of Stephen Schwartz’s Snapshots. A.C.T. of CT is dedicated to inspiring, creating and nurturing a culturally diverse and equitable environment for its staff, creative teams, cast, musicians, crew members and audiences, and is committed to achieving a diverse workforce and to maintaining an inclusive, discrimination-free environment.
Information and/or opinions expressed in “Who’s Who” are those of the players, not necessarily those of A.C.T. of CT.
SPECIAL THANKS:
Rebecca Baglio, Suzanne Brennan & The Lounsbury House, Brooke Brown, The Dapper Den Barbershop, The Engeman Theater, Nutmeg Livery, NCL Ridgefield & Nutmeg, Danille Petrie & Christine Carnicelli & West Lane Inn, Planet Pizza, Queen B Coffee Co, Ridgefield Parks & Recreation, Gerald Roche, Savers Brookfield, Stacey’s Totally Baked, Steve Zemo & Ridgefield Apartments, Whistle Stop Bakery, and our amazing volunteer ushers!
Eggstra special thanks to Daniel C. Levine & Bryan Perri’s chickens, whose yolk-fueled generosity provided the very eggs used on stage in this production.
A.C.T. OF CT STAFF
Artistic Director .................................................................................................................................... DANIEL C. LEVINE
Producing Director ..................................................................................................................................... R. ERIN CRAIG
Resident Music Supervisor ........................................................................................................................ BRYAN PERRI
Director of Education & Outreach .............................................................................................. HEATHER HILLMAN
Director of Development ...................................................................................................................... SHELLEY TERRY
General Manager ............................................................................................................................ TRACEY BRYGGMAN
Company Manager ........................................................................................................................... CHER CALDERONE
Box Office & Outreach Coordinator .............................................................................................. JARED REYNOLDS
Office Coordinator ................................................................................................................................. NATHAN BRENN
Production Coordinator .......................................................................................................... MATTHEW WOODSIDE
Production Assistant ............................................................................................................................ BROOKE GELLER
Office Assistants ................................................................................................. MADDY GALGANO, TRACEY LEWIS, ANYA NARDONE, KAITLYN SALVATORE
House Manager ............................................................................................................................. JULIE COHEN SLOMA
Database Coordinator ......................................................................................................................... CORETTA HANKS
Bookkeeper ................................................................................................................................................. MARIAN RIZZO
Bookkeeping Services ........................................................................................................... ECRATCHIT NONPROFIT
Accountants ............................................................................................................................... REYNOLDS & ROWELLA
Intern ............................................................................................................................................................ CHLOE SIMNER
Resident Music Coordinator ......................................................................................................... DENNIS J. ARCANO
Graphic Designer ..................................................................................................................................... PAUL WRONSKI
Parking Attendants ............................................................................................................... JAKE TERRY, RYAN TERRY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Katie Diamond, President
Daniel C. Levine, Vice President
Tizzie Mantione, Treasurer
Heather Hillman, Secretary
Rebecca Baglio, Ryan Bailer, Dan Berta, Kristin Beylouni, Betsy Brand, R. Erin Craig, Randy Donaldson, Jenn Hansen, Caroline Kellen, Peggy Marconi, Jack Mehler, Larry Morley, Bryan Perri, Marisa Schafer, Rajal Young
ARTISTIC ADVISORY BOARD
Susan Batten
Al Blackstone
Beowulf Boritt
Christian Borle
Trish Breede
Sara Brians
R. Erin Craig
Mike Evariste
Caite Hevner
Peter Hylenski
Tom Kitt
Simon Matthews
Lindsay Mendez
Alan Menken
Christina Millar
Stephen Schwartz
Frank Selvaggi
EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD
Dennis J. Arcano
Selina Bell
Nancy Caron
Randy Donaldson
Carina Drake
Mike Evariste
Cory Gillette
Jenn Hansen
Mary Joyce
Jennifer Katona
Deborah Penn
Angela Rice
Rachel Ruggeri
Claire Simard
Jennifer Sproule
2023-2024 Donors
$100,000+
Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation
Denise and Michael Kellen Foundation
Diamond Properties
Tom Nissley and the GRA Fund
Rudy L. Ruggles, Jr.
$50,000-$99,999
Anne S. Richardson Fund
Anita and Nick Donofrio
$30,000-$49,999
Fairfield County Bank HamletHub
Michele and Tom Quindlen
The West Lane Inn
$10,000-$29,999
Lori and John Berisford
Kristin and Darren Beylouni
Betsy and Michael Brand
Burry Fredrik Foundation
Dianna Colabella
CT Humanities
Gallo Ristorante
Liz and Steven Goldstone
Sheila and Michael Gray
Margaret Hajdarovic
Heather Hillman and Jack Whalen
Karen and Todd Kipnes
George F Landegger
Gerri and Robert Lewis
Joseph Loonan and Linda MacDonald
Tom and Tizzie Mantione
Ocean Mokum Foundation
Ridgefield Thrift Shop
Rodier Flowers
Robert & Diana Borman
Family Foundation
Katy Schermann and Rob Zink
Gary and Susie Singer
$5,000-$9,999
109 Cheese & Wine
Laura Freed Ancona and Joe Ancona
Rebecca and Scott Baglio
Kimberly and Christopher Bishop
BMW of Ridgefield
Kate and Brandon Bogard
Christine and Jeffrey Boris
Ann and Steven Carlson
Colonial Automobile Group
Colonial Cleaners
Deborah’s Ann’s Sweet Shoppe
Katie Diamond
Daniel C. Levine and Bryan Perri
The M&T Charitable Foundation
Lauren and Russ Mika
MLE Foundation
Nature’s Temptations
Catherine and Patrick Neligan
Russ and Holly Neumann
Nissan of Yorktown Heights
Nutmeg Livery Service
Jim and Susie Perakis
The Peter and Jeanne Charitable Fund
The Premier Collection, LLC
Patricia and Stephen Ross
Ian Schermann
Pamela and Ed Simoneau
Southwest Café
Allison and Jon Stockel
TerraSole Ristorante
Joyce and Gary Tomlinson
Cynthia and David Whitehouse
$2,500-$4,999
Adam Broderick Salon & Spa
Barker Welfare Foundation
Bonnie Beylouni
Boeing Matching Gifts
Angela and Magtanggol Caes
Christopher and Audra Cartelli
Ciota Legal Group, LLC
Connecticut Office of the Arts
Sue and Bruce Cruikshank
JMJ Foundation
Mary and Christopher Joyce
Matt Bartelme and Kelly Moriarty
Kovak Foundation
Kristen and Robert Liesegang
Peggy and Rudy Marconi
Lorraine and Larry Morley
Karla and Greg Murtaugh
Jean and James Prusko
Rotary Club of Ridgefield
Heather and Robert Salaga
Gary and Susie Singer
Arts & Culture Foundation
Allison and Matt Susser
UBS Matching Gifts
Danielle and Philip Van Riper
Elizabeth and Paul Wronski
$1,000 - $2,499
Stephanie and Andy Anderson
David B. Smith and Maria Victor-Smith
Carl and Lauren Bailey
Dayna Beylouni White and Jason White
Heather and Jeff Butchen
Christa and Jeffrey Carone
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center
Tammy Conley and Roselinde Torres
Elaine and Kevin Cox
Katherine Daigle
The Dalessio Family
Dimitris Diner
Donna Farber
Kutnick Foundation
Renee and KR Fozouni
Dr. Gregory Brucato
Suni and Woody Harford
Leah and Jonathan Hayner
Mike and Susan Herron
Jana and Sean Hogan
Kristine and Brian Keaveny
Pamela Lancaster
Michael and Eva-Lynn Langan
Trish LaRosa
Barbara Manners
Tom and Eileen McIntyre
John Mendez
Elizabeth Murray Ellis
Terri and Marc Nathanson
The New York Community Trust
Polly O’Brien Morrow
Jennings Oil
Benjamin Oko and Helen Dimos
Ridgefield Pet
Jill and Rob Rae
Linda Reddy
Angela and Jason Rice
Elegant Ridgefield
Lisa Rosenblum and Saar Banin
Evelyn and Jeffrey Sabin
Kirsten Salley and Danny Butler
Marisa and Timothy Schafer
Michael Seelbach and David Stone
Patricia Sherrick
Stephen Shiller
Martha and John Shilstone
Beth Simon
Michael Steinmetz
Jill and Matt Teich
Shelley and Matthew Terry
The Tow Foundation
Rajal and Jordan Young
$500-$999
Beth Aaronson
James Abbott
Robin Albin
2023-2024 Donors continued
Bank of America
Jessica Auerbach
Sue Bellion
Mitch Brand
Kathleen and Thomas Brennan
Tiffany and Randy Carlson
Jeannine Carr
Dr. Martha Rogers and Mr. Dick Cavett
Richard Conway
Linda Costa
Louise and Sam Edelman
Ellen Burns and Darwin Ellis
Lisa and Doug Esneault
Shelly and Ira Joe Fisher
Denise and Bob Fontenelli
Susanne and Stan Galanski
Kerri Glass
Jennifer and Jeff Hansen
Sharon and Darin Hoffner
Laura Holdgrafer
Bob and Beverly Iannucci
Caleres Inc
Randy Donaldson and Michele Isenberg
Maria Klutey
Rick Lawrence
Ridgefield Library
Alexa and Fredrick Marshall
William Haseltine and Maria
Eugenia Maury
Amanda Gabbard and Michael McGuirk
James Andrew Wylie and Suzanne McLaughlin
Marquerite and John Mehler
Stephanie Miller
Ellen Murphy
Natassia Najman
Felicia and Shamon Nowling
Julie Peck
Denise and Brian Qualey
Stephen Reynolds
Carla Silva Setaro and Christopher Setaro
Annette Hasapidis and Brian Sferra
Lonnie Shapiro
Andy Sternlieb
Tina and Don Sturges
Grace Weber
Sarah Whitten
Marguerite and Alan Winsor
David and Victoria Yolen
$250-$499
Jack W Batman
Nancy and Gene Brandon
Cathleen Burns
Katherine Castano
Kam Daughters
Anissa Dematteo
Kerry Anne and Ken Ducey
Actors’ Equity Foundation
Mae Grant
Amy Griffin
Sally and Barclay Griffiths
Rabbi Jon and Jean Haddon
Victoria and Skip Jennings
Judith and Howard Levine
Jonathan Lustig
Carol and Dan Mahlstedt
Thomas Mitchell
Kenneth Ng
Kenneth Olsen
Cynthia and Marshall Rankowitz
Theresa Bearden-Rettger and Michael Rettger
John Riolo
Joseph Savoia
Scott Schwartz
Charles Shaeffer
Karen Fine-Shalett
Monica and Alex Staehely
Martin Wagner
Alexandra Walker
Joan and Michael Wexelbaum
$150-$249
Stephen Bartkus
Richard Burke
Jack Cole
Kathleen and Douglas
Coombs
Carol Dockery
Paul Evanson
Brendan Gaul
Karen and Ira Gerard
Mark Gilliam
Gary Harger
Ann and Steve Harrington
Mary Hoermann
Christine Janssen
Brooks Klimley
Kathryn Kosek
Diane and Richard Larson
Rachel and Marshal Litt
Elizabeth Lyons
Mary Beth and Edward McGarvey
Laura Nisenbaum
Wendee Nussle
John Olson
Mary and James O’Rourke
Sondra Peretz
Valerie Perlman
Richard and Carol Pfeifer
Jerry Ragone
Susan Rho
Andrea Romeo
Jeff Sansone
Susan and Dennis Schmidt
Ed Smith
Business Partners
068 Magazine
AG Beauty
Bareburger - Ridgefield
Bobo Café – Ridgefield
Books on the Common, LLC
Caraluzzi’s Market
The Dapper Den
Eddie’s Pizza & Pasta
Marty Motors
Nod Hill Brewery
The Pilates Barre
Prospector Theater
The Residence Inn – Danbury
Ridgefield Apartments
Ridgefield Station
RPAC Gallery
Steinway & Sons
Tusk & Cup
Vine & Co.
Thank you to A.C.T. of CT for reminding us that the recipe for happiness is already inside us. celebrates the people places and things that make our community great
Congratulations to A.C.T of Connecticut on another spectacular season!
We are so proud to be continuing supporters of this fabulous theater. Ridgefield is so lucky to have A.C.T of CT!
Check out a sneak preview of Grave Words and Gerri’s other work here!
-Bob & Gerri Lewis
Don’t miss Gerri Lewis’s second installment of the Deadly Deadlines Mysteries:
GRAVE WORDS
Available June 10 at Books on the Common in Ridgefield, or wherever books are sold
@gerrilewisauthor
Want
Subscribe for a glimpse into the vibrant culture for the year and receive six bi-monthly issues that focus on the wonderful arts and community that thrive within Connecticut’s first cultural district and surrounding areas.
Please note: Residents of Ridgefield and Wilton receive a complimentary magazine subscription. This option is for those who would like to receive the magazine outside of zip codes 06877, 06879, and 06897.
Historic farmhouse with all the charm of yesteryear, updated for today including 3 car garage addition with magnificent great room above. Stunning 2.09 acres with scenic pond and fountain, rolling lawn, front porch, rear screened porch and deck, electrified cottage/shed, chicken coop, horse barn with one stall, fruit trees, plus former paddock converted to fenced in vegetable garden with automatic sprinkler. Total 3,467 sf with 3 fireplaces and 2 wood burning stoves, exposed beams, and delightful options for gracious living and entertaining including: inviting kitchen with wood stove, exposed beams, and sunny dining area; living room with gas fireplace; den with vaulted timbered ceiling and 2nd wood stove; plus the family room addition with wood burning fireplace. The second floor offers the spacious primary suite with walk-in closets and remodeled bath including claw foot tub; 2 additional bedrooms with Jack & Jill bath; plus walk-up to storage attic. Top location, minutes to historic Main Street or Branchville station; walk to Florida Refuge for hiking; and only 58 miles to Midtown. $1,199,000
Espresso Bar & Gelateria
• The finest specialty coffee made by the most skilled baristas using the freshest locally roasted beans
• All natural artisanal soups, salads, sandwiches, pastries, smoothies, frappes, breakfast sandwiches
• 12 all natural flavors of traditional Italian gelato made daily on premises
TWO LOCATIONS:
51 Ethan Allen Highway Ridgefield, CT 06877
142 Old Ridgefield Road Wilton, CT 06897
Crystals & Jewelry • Candles, Essential Oils & Incense
Yoga Wear, Boho Clothing & Accessories • Spiritual Gifts & Statuary • Decks, Books & Cards The First Shungite Room in the USA
• Gong Baths • Certification Classes HOME • BODY • SOUL PURVEYORS OF POSITIVITY • A UNIQUE LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE
Special events, classes, workshops and retreats in both our Shungite Room and at The Angel Wing (our spiritual center next door).
• Readings • Yoga - All Levels • Massage
• Reiki
• Energy Work
• Sound Healing
• Acupuncture
Making Ridgefield Sweeter since 1998
Instructor Led Independent Study Classes
CARING FOR THE FABRIC OF OUR COMMUNITY
Family-owned since 1982
We hope you’ll feel good when you visit our shop…or when you arrive home and notice your dry cleaning has been delivered…or when you see our four-leaf rating awarded by the Green Cleaners Council as proof of our commitment to the environment…or when you look in the mirror and see how great you look in your clothes that have been cared for by Colonial Cleaners.
Scan the QR code to learn more.
Proudly serving CT, NY and NJ for 30 years. Lawns for Distinctive Homes
92 Grove Street Ridgefield, Connecticut
FOR A GOOD TIME CALL
As a full service travel agency, we can assist you with planning Air, Land, & Sea Vacations including:
• Safaris
• Destination Weddings
• All-Inclusive Resort Vacations
• Guided Tours
• Group Travel
• Ocean, River, & Expedition Cruises
Our services are complimentary and we have more than sixty 5-Star Google Reviews!
Call today and let us help plan your next dream vacation!
(203) 429 5589
67 Federal Road, Brookfield, CT www.ExpediaCruises.com/900221
15 YEARS STRONG!
Planning a trip? Ensure a safe and healthy journey with RVNAhealth’s comprehensive travel vaccinations and expert guidance. Whether you’re heading to tropical destinations or remote regions, our Nurse Travel Health Specialists provide the protection you need. Experience Our Kind of Care.
RVNAhealth.org / 203.438.5555 / Medicare Certified
Dana C. Jones, DDS
Joseph S. Roberti, DDS
Josephine A. Franzese, DMD
Kids with cancer need more than medicine to heal.
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, everything else slips away.
We are a Connecticut-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting families of children with cancer across the state and surrounding areas. For over 20 years, we’ve stood beside 3,600 families, offering vital emotional and financial support to help ease their journey and remind them they are never alone.
When basic needs are taken care of, families can focus on what truly matters - healing.
We understand the unique challenges the families in our Circle face - loss of income when taking time to care for their child, increased transportation expenses, the burden of unexpected medical copays... Our programs and services are thoughtfully designed to meet the demanding needs that arise throughout a child’s cancer experience—up to a year after the end of treatment. To learn more about our programs and how you can help, visit thecircleofcare.org.
Circle of Care
for families of children with cancer
Until no family has to hear the words “your child has cancer, we’ll be here.”
