Local Love Issue H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S
DISCOVER A LO CAL OA SIS A R T S + C U LT U R E
PRI DE I N ART S T Y LE + B E AU T Y
AWARD WI N N ING LI NGERI E O N M AIN
F E B R UA RY 2 02 4
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Local Love Issue It's the season of love and this issue is dedicated to our collective love for all things local! We bring you a few of Ridgefield's most active and enthusiastic citizens who continuously champion this place we call home. Highlighting Suzanne Brennan's leadership on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and her prominent role at the Lounsbury House is where we start. Suzanne grew up in Ridgefield and is one of the most connected, revered supporters of our small businesses and local celebrations. Amanda Gabbard is a bit newer to town but is just as enthusiastic about the life and culture that surround us. Amanda left Manhattan with her husband during the pandemic and has not looked back. Read about how she balances her thriving beauty business between Manhattan and Ridgefield and what a pleasant surprise it was for her to land here in this quiet suburban spot that pleased her in many ways! We are so happy to feature the emerging Ridgefield based theatre, ACT of Connecticut and highlight the many ways this theatre has captured the hearts of Ridgefield. How many towns of our size are so fortunate to have Broadway-quality productions to look forward to throughout the year? We also talk about how ACT of Connecticut gives back to the Ridgefield community. We include a few local businesses that make our community more interesting and lively. A local oasis where you can find an abundance of harmony and self love which is Grow Wellness! If you haven't stopped by this very special place where you can set intentions and find peace and serenity, please do. This is one of those spots that offers world-class modalities while making the world a better place! Did you know that one of the top lingerie shops in America is located on our beautiful Main Street? Meet Pam, the visionary and entrepreneur who has built one of the best lingerie shops in the nation as voted on by her industry peers. Pam grew up here and continues to create and make her Main Street business a destination that attracts people from all over the area. So dive into this issue and celebrate the heartfelt stories about the people and places that we treasure. Have a special Valentine's Day and a month filled with lots of Local Love! As always, thank you for reading. M A R Y D O U G H E R T Y, P U B L I S H E R @RIDGEFIELDCITYLIFESTYLE
February 2024 PUBLISHER
Mary Dougherty | mary.dougherty@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R
Kristin Healy | kristin.healy@citylifestyle.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
New Light Creative Services, Kate Wark Photography
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Ridgefield City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Ridgefield area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Ridgefield City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
RIDGEFIELD
YTD MEDIAN SALES PRICE
% CHANGE VS YTD 2023
2023
$1,026,000
0%
2022
$870,000
+18%
2021
$815,000
+26%
2020
$700,000
+46%
2019
$628,250
+63%
inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L
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Featured
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16 20 24 6
12 On the Cover
Award Winning Lingerie on Main
The Woman Behind one of America’s Most Revered Lingerie Shops
Suzanne Brennan, Executive Director of the Lounsbury House.
A Local Oasis
Discover tranquility and wellness at Grow Wellness
Ladies Who Love Local
Meet Suzanne Brennan and Amanda Gabbard
Pride in Art
ACT of Connecticut Takes Center Stage in the Community
Photography: New Light Creative Services Makeup: Amanda Gabbard
Departments 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Business Monthly
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Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY
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Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS
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Locally Sourced LOCAL SERVICES
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Back Stage ARTS + CULTURE
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Athlete Life TRAVEL
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Party Planning FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Events
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FEBRUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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MARY HAROLD
1: Jen Coleman vignette. Celebrating fifty years with a 70’s disco theme at the Guild. 2: Amy Pal and her team at Whip Salon’s 7th Anniversary Party! 3: Andrea Romeo, Amy Pal and Rebecca Baglio at Whip Salon’s 7th Anniversary Party! 4: Rachel Belden vignette with Josh Fischer’s painting at the Ridgefield Guild of Artists. 5: Rowan Glennon at a USASA competition for freestyle skiing last year 6: Michael, Lauren, Chris, Tina, Don, Kelly, and Tommy Sturges at the Ridgefield Guild of Artists 7: Deanna Tremblay, Jamie Gundeck, Katt Luke, Erin Bryant, and Christina Tardibuono
Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ R I D G E F I E L D C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
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C I T Y SC E N E
FEBRUARY 2024
WHERE IS YOUR NEXT ESCAPE?
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business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Ridgefield Orthodontics Opens It’s Doors to the Ridgefield Community Ridgefield Orthodontics is a family-owned practice treating patients of all ages! You will enjoy modern care, a family-friendly atmosphere and excellent services. Our passion is to give our patients the best experience and results possible. We will help you find the treatment that best suits you and your lifestyle, and help achieve your dream smile! www.ridgefieldortho.com
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BRINGING BROADWAY TO RIDGEFIELD! ACT of CT Brings Million Dollar Quartet to Town Don’t miss this TONY Award-winning musical centered around the legendary jam session that became one of the greatest impromptu and iconic meetings in all of music history! MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET celebrates the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll! Grab your tickets now before all performances are sold out. Visit actofct. org, or call 475.215.5497 today and see how ACT of CT “Brings Broadway to Ridgefield!” Performances February 22 - March 17, 2024
FEB 22–MARCH 17, 2024 MUSIC & LYRICS BY CYNDI LAUPER BOOK BY HARVEY FIERSTEIN
MAY 23–JUNE 16, 2024
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ACTOFCT.ORG BOX OFFICE: (475) 215 5497 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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THE WOMAN BEHIND ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST ADORING LINGERIE SHOPS
Aw a r d W i n n i n g Lingerie on Main ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW LIGHT CREATIVE SERVICES
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FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y
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T h e r e ’s n o t h i n g I l ove m o r e t h a n t o b e o f s e r v i c e t o m y c o m m u n i t y a n d t o p r ov i d e a s e r v i c e t o s o m a n y wo n d e r f u l c u s t o m e r s , m a n y o f w h o m h ave b e c o m e c l o s e f r i e n d s ove r
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t h e ye a r s .
The Candlelight Shoppe is more than meets the eye as a lingerie and underwear store. Nestled in the middle of Ridgefield's iconic Main Street is a store full of history, love and beautiful things, a place where customer milestones like proms, weddings and births are gratefully acknowledged and celebrated. Owned and operated by Pam Fitzpatrick, the shop first opened its doors in 1964 by Pam's mother, who recognized the need for a lingerie shop in the area. While Pam "grew up " in the store, the plan was for her to run the business for just two years when her mother retired, so as to make the transition easy. "That was 42 years ago," Pam laughs. "I fell in love with my customers and the business, and have been happily running it ever since." Selling a wide-range of sleepwear and loungewear, the Candlelight Shoppe is no ordinary undergarment store. It was the first to carry such brands as Hanky Panky and Eberjey, years before both of them became well-known and revered, to which Pam remarks, "I'm Hanky Panky's oldest customer—I've been with them since day one in the '70s." Her largest service is bra fittings, followed by sleepwear including pajamas, robes, and other loungewear, as well as underpinnings, briefs, thongs and even slips. "It’s important to me for a woman to get the proper fit; it’s not so much, spending up to 45 minutes with a customer giving her what she needs. Sometimes it takes a long time. I learned on the job and realized it’s not a size, it’s a shape. You have to fit the bra to a woman’s shape, therefore, it becomes a fun challenge
to do that. Taking the time for a proper fit. We’re not the same shape. It’s really important to fit the person according to their shape." Perhaps what makes the Candlelight Shoppe especially endearing is that it has been nominated two years in a row by the industry as the best lingerie store in the United States. "Let's hope this third one is a charm," Pam says of a potential third year nomination. "But just being nominated is an honor. My biggest achievement is being in the business for 59 years," she says. "Next year, we'll celebrate 60." As far as Valentine's Day goes, it's the busiest day of the year for Pam, with throngs of men and women coming in looking for that perfect something for their special someone. "I love when the men come in!" Pam says. "They know their wives significantly well and we have a lot of fun." A belief Pam has held firm over the years is that knowledge and good service lead to customer loyalty, stating that by knowing your product and providing good service will result in "your people" being very, very loyal. "I grew up in Ridgefield, so of course this town holds a very special place in my heart," Pam says. "There's nothing I love more than to be of service to my community and to provide a service to so many wonderful customers, many of whom have become close friends over the years." The Candlelight Shoppe is open six days a week, Monday-Saturday. Hours of operation are generally 11 am-5:30 pm, but are subject to change.
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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A Local OA S I S ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE WARK PHOTOGRAPHY
Grow Wellness sprouted its roots on the top of Matchu Picchu in Peru. "Dramatic I know, but 100% true!" says Kathleen Kweskin, owner and founder of Grow Wellness.
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M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS
DISCOVER TRANQUILITY AND WELLNESS AT GROW WELLNESS
Before Grow Wellness came to fruition, Kathleen, an herbalist, entrepreneur and wellness educator, found herself "lost" for many years, spiraling in health after trauma she had gone through. She was experiencing seizures, chronic fatigue, acne and inflammation. On top of that, she was living life in a perpetual state of degenerative stress and depression. At that time (2010-2013), doctors "were not connecting any of the dots" of her mind, body and spirit for her overall health and wellness, she says. "I had no idea what was going on back then," a time not long ago when integrative medicine was not easily accessible nor understood. "I thought I was broken." At the same time, Kathleen was majoring in International Studies and Psychology at the University of New Mexico when she "stumbled into" a Positive Psychology class that opened a door for her in terms of beginning to understand the connections to herself. After subsequently serving as a teaching assistant for Positive Psychology, practicing as a positive psychology mentor on campus, co-founding the Happiness and Positive Psychology Initiative and graduating, she knew "there was more out there." "My passion for international culture as well as my New Mexican heritage beckoned me to travel and find my way back to myself," Kathleen says. "So I saved, and I did."
“My passion for international culture as well as my New Mexican heritage beckoned me to travel and find my way back to myself.” For one year, she studied, volunteered and lived in Ashrams from Spain to Peru, Indonesia to Thailand and Laos to India. "I left seeking healing and answers and came back with purpose and a drive to share," she says. Kathleen opened Grow Wellness in 2017. Her purpose is to create an authentic environment to explore all different types of healing modalities from around the world to integrate into your health routine. CONTINUED >
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Kathleen Kweskin, owner of Grow Wellness
Eastern and Western medicine meet within the walls of Grow Wellness to create support and results. At the studio, you will find two bohemian rooms dedicated to advanced modalities of therapeutic massage such as cupping therapy, myofascial release, reflexology, craniosacral therapy and much more. "Our full-spectrum infrared sauna warms up a rain shower room and a variety of yoga styles flow in the sanctuary down the hall," she says of the studio. There are a plethora of services and classes offered under Grow Wellness, all of which hold numerous benefits of helping to manage common ailments like inflammation, depression and anxiety, nutrient depletion, slowed digestion, fatigue and overall body restriction. "When you get a massage, attend a yoga class or experience Reiki, you activate your 'rest and digest' mode," Kathleen explains, which allows our minds and bodies to relax enough to significantly increase circulation, efficiency of our cells and physiological functions, as well as boosts energy levels while decreasing cortisol and stress hormones. "You can imagine what these basic benefits in turn do for your heart, digestion, skin, mental health, lymphatic system and brain as well as the effect they can have when integrated into care for medical conditions," she says. Grow Wellness is also quickly becoming known for its integrations of animal therapy, yoga and live music, in addition to the unique wellness workshops. Speaking of workshops, held on February 17 is a class for couples where they can experience yoga and meditation together, as well as a partner massage and therapeutic mandala painting. WEBSITE: growwellnesstherapy.com IG: grow_wellness
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M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS
Selling Ridgefield Since 1987
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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Ladies Who L ove L o c a l A CONVERSATION WITH SUZANNE BRENNAN AND AMANDA GABBARD
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW LIGHT CREATIVE SERVICES
Photo by New Light Creative Services; Makeup provided by Amanda Gabbard; Suzanne Brennan, Executive Director, Lounsbury House
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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | LO CAL SE RVICE S
Makeup artist, Amanda Gabbard
Few people have a way to people's hearts as soon as they meet you. Individuals who possess that charismatic "it" factor that instantly brings a smile to your face and a warm and fuzzy feeling in your heart because they make you feel like you belong, no matter what your background is, where you came from or where your passions lie. Suzanne Brennan and Amanda Gabbard are two women who have just that. Suzanne has Ridgefield running deep in her veins as she grew up here, full of wisdom, love and warmth that can only be seen on the most genuine of persons, while Amanda comes to us from New York City, bringing her wit, charm and infectious personality with her, bustling with happy energy no matter where you find her. We are overjoyed to introduce you to these two women who are shaping Ridgefield into the amazing community that it is—and has been—for years and years—bringing a renewed sense of freshness while keeping the community's classic style of ingenuity and rich history intact. Suzanne Brennan, if she needs an introduction, is the Executive Director of Lounsbury House. If you know her, you know she is much, much more than that. She is a fierce advocate for all things community, helping individuals thrive in their small businesses not because it's her job to do so, but because she simply enjoys seeing others succeed. "I'm a BIG advocate for supporting local," Suzanne says. "Keep Ridgefield vibrant and support those businesses that give back to our non-profits, sports teams and fundraisers. They are the heartbeat of the community." As a multi-generational Ridgefielder, her love for the town is "deeply ingrained" in her heart. Serving as Executive Director of Lounsbury House and as past President of the Chamber of Commerce is all about
giving back to the community, she says, that has given her so much in return. "To think I may help shape its future in some small and meaningful way is very humbling," she says of Ridgefield. "Lounsbury House is so much more than just a building to me. It's a beautiful symbol and reminder of Ridgefield's past—a gift for all of us—and one that I work hard to protect and preserve for future generations, too." Her relationships with Ridgefield's business community, plus her role as a board member with Compassionate Ridgefield, further deepen her connections within the town, driving an even greater understanding of what it means to support local. "As we enter the season of St. Valentine, the joy I feel as a mom is the driving force behind everything I do," Suzanne says. "It compels me to be the very best version of myself and to celebrate my gifts of love and learning." A few of Suzanne's favorite things: • Favorite room in the Lounsbury House: Today's "Crystal Room," which once served as Phineas' and Jennie Lounsbury's "Music Room" (from 18961925), when dinner parties were popular and the Lounsburys entertained many of their wealthy New York City friends there. "Back then, Ridgefield was considered a summer resort for rich and prominent New Yorkers," Suzanne says. "I am DELIGHTED at the thought of all the different people and personalities that may have visited and adored Lounsbury House." • Favorite chocolate: Raspberry truffles rolled in chocolate curls from Deborah Ann's Sweet Shoppe or chocolate-covered potato chips • Favorite wines: Juve & Camps Gran Juve Gran Reserva and Villa Jolanda Saint Valentine, I Love You Prosecco. If Suzanne is the heart of Ridgefield, Amanda is the beat. CONTINUED >
“I’m a BIG advocate for supporting local. Keep Ridgefield vibrant... support those businesses that give back to our non-profits, sports teams and fundraisers. They are the heartbeat of the community.” - Suzanne Brennan FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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“The hustle is real. No one’s going to come knocking on doors asking if we’d like a job doing what we love. It’s up to us to make it happen.” - Amanda Gabbard
Photo by New Light Creative Services; Villa Jolanda Saint Valentine I Love You Prosecco
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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | LO CAL SE RVICE S
Photo by Jennifer Zarine; Makeup by Amanda Gabbard
Amanda Gabbard is an award-winning makeup artist and beauty expert who has painted the faces of Kamala Harris, Brooke Shields and Al Pacino, just to name a few. Hailing from New York City where she spent several years as a professional actress and singer, she realized her love for the artistry of makeup surpassed her love (and talent) for acting—things her life centered around since she was a little girl. "[I've been into makeup] literally since I could walk and talk," Amanda says. "Give me a few pieces of my mom or grandmother's old makeup, a jar of Ponds cream and a giant powder puff and I was in heaven! When I started to get an allowance as a kid, I'd go straight to the makeup section in the drugstore and contemplate for hours on which Wet 'n' Wild, Coty and Bonne Bell products to get...palms sweating...biggest decision of my life!" she jokes. "I can't remember ever not being obsessed with makeup." One thing is for certain: she thrives in the entertainment industry. Whether she's working on a TV show or during fashion week, collaborating with photographers or hosting as an on-air beauty expert, the multi-talented Amanda "feels very fortunate" to have combined both her passions. "I became successful with my makeup career by incorporating the exact same steps as one does to be seen for acting roles," she says. "It's the same school of thought—networking, putting yourself out there, developing a thick skin where rejection doesn't even phase you, making and maintaining solid relationships, word of mouth, showing up, looking the part and HUSTLING. The hustle is real. No one is going to come knocking on doors asking if we'd like a job doing what we love. It's up to us to make it happen."
Being in Manhattan for 23 years, buying a home in Connecticut where her husband (Michael McGuirk) knew no one, wasn't ever something on their radar. "But thankfully, the planets aligned and here I am!" Amanda says. "When Ridgefield began to slowly open up after the pandemic, I was floored with the thriving culture here. From the art world to the theater scene, I immediately started to work beside so many creative and dynamic people. Now working frequently with ACT of Connecticut (who asks Amanda to "glam up" their guests), collaborating with RPAC/D. Colabella Gallery on projects that bring celebrity photographers and designers to Ridgefield (including Udo Spreitzenbarth and Christian Siriano) is keeping her just as busy here as she was in New York. "In addition to the makeup application for any and all occasions where I have met some amazing people and friends, I also hope to continue creating and collaborating with professionals from all different backgrounds who are looking to raise the bar," Amanda says. "Whether it's needing an updated makeup or skincare look, branding their business, wanting to better themselves or most importantly, wanting to take what they bring to the table to the next level." "In all honestly,” she continues, “What Ridgefield has brought to my husband and me is priceless. A new life in an enchanting town filled with wonderful humans and a lifestyle that we have fully embraced and that in turn has embraced us? We truly are the lucky ones." A few of Amanda's favorite things: • Favorite restaurant in town: A tie between Lucs and Gallo • Favorite dessert shop: Stacey's Totally Baked • Favorite makeup product brands: Cinema Secrets, Makeup by Mario and Yonka
VA L E N T I N E ’ S DAY P L A N S : Amanda’s recommendation for a perfect
Valentine’s Day? A massage and a blowout followed by cocktails and appetizers before seeing a show, ending with a late dinner out and then home for some Netflix.
Photo by Heather Pauline; Makeup by Amanda Gabbard
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PRIDE IN Art
ACT OF CONNECTICUT TAKES CENTER STAGE IN THE COMMUNITY PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ACT OF CT
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B ACK STAGE | ARTS + C U LT U RE
Founded in 2018 by Daniel C. Levine, Katie Diamond, and Bryan Perri, ACT of CT, now in its sixth season, continues to captivate audiences with Broadwaycaliber productions right here in Ridgefield, CT. Beyond delivering unforgettable theatrical experiences, ACT of CT is deeply committed to community outreach and giving back. Spearheading the creative direction is Daniel C. Levine, Artistic Director of ACT, who reflects on their inception, "When we first envisioned establishing our professional theater in Ridgefield, we were uncertain if audiences would embrace it. Fortunately, Ridgefield's exceptional community demonstrated overwhelming support for the arts, nonprofit organizations, and its residents. Ridgefield is remarkable in that way." ACT of CT's mainstage season, September to June annually, showcases star-studded productions. In addition to its renowned Conservatory Program and sought-after New Works Program, the theater hosts the popular "Broadway Unplugged" Series, where TONY Winning celebrities join Resident Music Supervisor Bryan Perri for exclusive performances. However, the theater's extensive involvement in the local community often goes unnoticed. Ridgefield’s First Selectman Rudy Marconi praises ACT of CT, stating, "They don't just talk about giving back; they embody it. Their support for other local organizations showcases their dedication to Ridgefield. It is remarkable to see how this theater has not only become a center of theatrical excellence but also an ardent supporter of the people of our town.” ACT of CT has evolved into a theatrical powerhouse, producing twenty largescale musicals, earning a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album ("Snapshots"), and having filmed versions of their productions featured on the BroadwayHD’s streaming platform for worldwide and on-demand viewing. Levine’s adaptation of Stephen Schwartz's 1970s show "Working" (produced at ACT of CONTINUED >
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Rudy Marconi praises ACT of CT, stating, “They don’t just talk about giving back, they embody it.” CT in 2019) is now represented by a major theatrical licensing agency and regional theaters across the country are now producing and presenting the ACT version of the show. The theater also played a key role in the development of "Austen’s Pride," featured in both their New Works Series and mainstage productions, which debuted at Carnegie Hall this past June. Daniel C. Levine received the CT Critics Circle Award for Best Director of a Musical for "The Secret Garden," while the recent production of "Sunset Boulevard" received critical acclaim that would rival any glowing Broadway review. Levine reflects on the theater's achievements, stating, "I am most proud that ACT of CT has become woven into this exceptional community's fabric. Our accomplishments in less than six years are truly remarkable." Bryan Perri (whose credits include the Broadway productions of “Wicked,” “Jagged Little Pill,” and “Almost Famous”) emphasizes the role of the arts in connecting communities, especially after the lessons learned during the pandemic. “Being able to be leaders and participants in the Ridgefield arts scene is a responsibility that we take seriously and that we recognize as a privilege,” Perri says. “The arts build strong and connected communities and it’s important that everyone is able to benefit from this.”
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B ACK STAGE | ARTS + C U LT U RE
Erin Craig, ACT of CT’s Producing Director and co-executive leader, expresses gratitude for the town's support and community spirit. She states, "The culture of community support is something I am proud to be a part of. 'Giving back' is an absolute honor." To make theater accessible to all, ACT of CT introduced the First ACT! program. This initiative supports individuals, families, students, and working artists of diverse backgrounds, ensuring equal access to theatrical opportunities. The program also backs its Audience Access initiative, providing free attendance to traditionally underserved schools and communities. The program is entirely funded by the generosity of private donors. Shelley Terry, Development Director, emphasizes the importance of fundraising events, such as the upcoming Gala on June 7, 2024, to sustain the theater and to continue with its mission stating, “Many people don’t realize that ticket sales to our productions only cover 40% of our annual operating budget. Fundraising, sponsorships, and donations are of the utmost importance to help fund ACT of CT and to keep our theater alive and well.” For more information on ACT of CT, visit www.actofct.org.
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The Ridgefield School of Dance Celebrating 25 years of dance Register now for Summer Dance PreBallet through Advanced Ballet Intensive Classical Ballet, Pointe, Partnering, PreBallet, Modern, Contemporary, Jazz, Lyrical, Summer Dance theridgefieldschoolofdance.com 66 Grove Street, Ridgefield, CT 203.894.5957
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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ARTICLE BY MARY DOUGHERTY
Locals Embrace Extreme Winter Sports The boys in the Ridgefield based Glennon family would ‘ski anytime, anywhere.’ Cashell, age 13, Lucan, age 12 and Rowan, age 9 have participated in Extreme Sports for years. Their truest passion is freestyle skiing, specifically the disciplines of slopestyle and halfpipe. We spoke with their mother, Tammy who owns Sammy & Nat on Main Street about her boys' commitment to freestyle skiing and if perhaps her daughter, Aoife who is seven and beginning to compete this year will follow in her siblings' daring path.
Rowan Glennan at the USASA competitions throughout the season last year.
Rowan Glennan at the USASA competitions throughout the season last year.
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AT H LE T E LIF E | TRAVEL
Rowan who is pictured won Gold in the National USASA championship for halfpipe last year and Silver in the National USASA slopestyle event last April. They thrive on the thrill of the aerial aspects coupled with the ability to perform and add their unique personality to each run for the judges. As parents who have never competed in a judged sport, we are so very proud of the resilience and patience that the sport has taught them. They learn that if you fall, you have another chance to get back up and turn around the judges. Those scores reflect technique, style and execution and you have to put the time in in order to achieve the most flawless performance. And while they each compete against teammates, they truly support one another on their journey and at every competition. They long to be back in Vermont with their team from the moment we put the skis away in May.
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Venezia Marble is a family-owned company that specializes in fabricating and installing natural stone and quartz surfaces. Since 2008, we have been proudly serving Connecticut and New York areas. From stone selection to installation, we assure our customers of quality results at reasonable prices.
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197 Ethan allen Hwy Ridgefield, CT 06877 sales@veneziamarble.com FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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Photo: New Light Creative Services
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Foods to
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In spire
Photo: Natasha Fleming
SWEET T COOKIE SHOP 1: VALENTINE’S COOKIES: by local baker, Teryn Morel for a sweet treat! IG: SweetTCookieShop
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O D E E N S C AT E R I N G 2 : VEGAN BEET TACOS Sliced golden beet filled with pistachio beetroot mousse and smoked pepitas Photo: Natasha Fleming Photo: Natasha Fleming
Two local caterers make any occasion delightful ARTICLE BY KRISTIN HEALY
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PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | FO OD + BE VE RAGE
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VEGAN SPRING ROLLS 3: MARINATED UNAGI MUSHROOMS and ORGANIC VEGETABLES SMOKED SALMON BASKET 4: FILLED WITH DILL CREME FRAICHE and CAVIAR IG: ODeensCatering
Custom Designed & Installed Home Storage Solutions Closets | Built Ins | Garage Cabinetry Home Offices | Pantries Garage Floor Coatings LibertyClosetAndGarage.com | 203.806.4038 | 51 Sugar Hollow Rd, Danbury, Connecticut FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K Your car is here...
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(203) 493-5022 63 Ethan Allen Hwy Ridgefield, CT 06877
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Come to Terrasole to take the stress away, and let us plan it for you!
Contact our Event Planner Nicole Hartofilis
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ELEVATE: An Energetic Coffee-Break Lisa Tancredi leads a 20 minute, guided practice to re-set intentions and see what unfolds this New Year! meetup.com
RIDGEFIELD’S PREMIER PILATES VENUE SINCE 2010
Daily Reformer Sessions Private Semi-Private Groups New Apprentice Rates!
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D
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FEBRUARY 2024
events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S
FEBR UARY 10 TH
Spanish - English Bilingual Storytime Ridgefield Public Library | 10:30 AM Families with children of all ages are invited to join Ms. Christie at the Ridgefield Library on the second Saturday of the month at 10:30 AM to talk, sing, and read together in Spanish and English in this bilingual storytime! This program engages both the caregiver and the child together, so all attendees should expect to participate. No registration required. FEBR UARY 17TH
Ridgefield Library Fundraiser: Hot Stove With Gary Cohen The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road | 1:00 PM New York Mets’ announcer Gary Cohen is returning for the fourth edition of the Ridgefield Library’s Hot Stove Event. Tickets are on sale now, including a brand-new VIP package that guarantees seats in the first four rows of the Playhouse, a commemorative lanyard and t-shirt, and priority access for the postevent meet and greet with Gary. FEBR UARY 28TH
State of the Town Address with First Selectman Rudy Marconi The Lounsbury House 316 Main Street Ridgefield | 7:00 AM First Selectman Rudy Marconi will deliver his annual State of the Town Address at the Lounsbury House. Attend the event and enjoy a continental breakfast, networking and get valuable insights as to the state of our town. This event is sponsored by the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce.
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EVE N TS
Dr. Aris has recently launched a PACE-approved continuing education school for dental professionals, approved by the Academy of General Dentistry
Enhance Your Wellness at Grow Wellness Sanctuary
GROWWELLNESSTHERAPY.COM 203.403.3710 901 ETHAN ALLEN HWY RIDGEFIELD, CT 06877
VB KATHLEEN KWESKIN
YO GA W E L L N E S S WO R K S H O P S M E D I TAT I O N M A S SAG E R E I KI I N F R A R E D SAU N A