<p>Ridgefield Theater Barn's production of The Prom is a heartwarming and thought-provoking celebration of individuality and acceptance. The talented cast, led by Audra James as Emma, Marilyn Olsen as DeeDee Allen, Anthony Laszlo as Barry Glickman, Rachel Rosado as Angie Dickinson, and Michael Valinati as Trent Oliver deliver standout performances that captivate the audience from start to finish.</p><p>The show tells the story of Emma, an Indiana high school student that just wants to take her girlfriend to the Prom. The local PTA steps in to protect "The Children...." and it makes it to Twitter. Meanwhile, In New York City, a quartet of self-absorbed Broadway performers, coming off a horrendous opening night, decide to find a cause to polish up their images. One scroll</p><p>through Twitter (Now X) lands them in small town Indiana coming to "rescue" Emma and be her champions. Things do not go to plan, and everyone, from the ensemble to the stars, travel growth arcs of action with beautiful toe tapping music by Matthew Sklar, and a sweet parable in the book and lyrics by Chad Beguelin/book by Bob Martin.</p><p>Ms. James’ Emma anchors the show with her midwestern charm and vocal chops, reeling us in one great song after another. The duet "Dance With You" with Ms Sussman's Alyssa, is poignantly beautiful.</p><p>The Broadway "Stars" are hilarious, with all four of them at the top of their game. The</p><p>juxtaposition of their lives and narcissisms play so well against the midwestern small town, and in the end, all of them grow, and find their empathic humanity.</p><p>Mr. Laszlo as Barry Glickman walks the tightrope of camp and humanity expertly, and Ms. Olsen's Deedee is Faith Prince incarnate, with a powerhouse voice and depth of feeling that keeps this role, which could be played as a two-dimensional caricature, firmly rooted in a three dimensional tour de force.</p><p>Speaking of powerhouse voices, it is not until the 10th number and just two from the end of the first act before we hear Mr. Hawkins played by Fred Rueck sing. But sing he does in the number "We Look To You" with one of the warmest baritones around, serving tenderness and strength simultaneously.</p><p>Michael Valinati as Trent Oliver takes the ensemble to school with his hilarious 2nd act number, "Love Thy Neighbor" and Ms. Rosado in her duet with Ms. James "Zazz," is breathtaking. I would be remiss if I didn't mention Sarah Pascal's Mrs. Greene. the PTA head spearheading the opposition to Emma's participation in the Prom.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>As antihero's go, she does a yeoman's job of being the villain while at the same time, revealing the grey areas of the heart. The ensemble’s energy is infectious, with highlights including Zach Hudson as Sheldon Saperstein, Sarah Paschal as Shelby, Zoe Anderson as Kaylee, David Chuba as Kevin, Robert Failia as Nick, and Kristin Aug as Mrs. Greene's Friend. The supporting cast, both adult and teen, brings an incredible level of talent and enthusiasm to the stage, including Heather Burlant, Garrett Levine, Liza Kaplan Montanino, Benjamin Olsen, Carlie Zucker, Matthew Donovan, Denise Hubbard, Katie Kelly, Craig David Rosen, Jasmin Salas, Kimberly Shay, and Charlotte Walsh. Every single member of the Ensemble has a distinct character that carried through all their appearances, and just the logistics of having them all on stage dancing shows the commitment to the piece and the respect for the choreography. Director Debra Lee Failla's inspired direction, Bonnie Gregson's on-point and technically impressive choreography, and John Failla's perfect musical direction of the talented live</p><p>orchestra create a seamless and exhilarating production. The show's energy is palpable, and the cast clearly pour their hearts into every number.</p><p>Overall, The Prom at Ridgefield Theater Barn, now in its 60th season, is a must-see for fans of the classic musical. The talented cast, combined with the energetic direction and choreography, create a truly unforgettable experience celebrating love, acceptance and the power of change.</p><p>Performances take place Friday and Saturday evenings from September 6th through September 28th at 8pm, with Sunday matinees September 15th and 22nd at 5pm.</p><p>SPECIAL PERFORMANCES: Friday, September 13 - Family Night! (no alcohol), including</p><p>Pre-Show Community Panel on Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth; Sunday, September 15th, Pay-What-You-Want matinee. Tickets are $40 for adults, $35 for seniors/students/veterans. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. Tickets can be purchased at <a href="https://ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org./" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org.</a></p>

<p><strong>Update: Unfortunately due to the impending inclement weather this event has been cancelled. No rain date has been announced</strong></p><p><br></p><p>Mark your calendars for the much-anticipated Annual New Fairfield Fair Day on September 7, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM (rain date: September 8). This is a free community event with something for everyone, and you won’t want to miss it!</p><p><strong>A Day Full of Fun and Entertainment</strong></p><p>Bring your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon packed with activities, entertainment, and a chance to connect with local businesses. Stroll through a variety of vendor booths, showcasing local crafts, goods, and services. Enjoy live music throughout the day, featuring multiple sets by The Not Sorry Band, who will keep the energy high with their classic cover tunes.</p><p><strong>New This Year: Westchester Circus Aerial and Acrobatic Show</strong></p><p>Prepare to be amazed by a thrilling new addition to this year’s Fair Day—the Westchester Circus Aerial and Acrobatic Show! They will be performing two shows during the day, with jugglers entertaining the crowds in between. This is a spectacle that both kids and adults will enjoy.</p><p><strong>Food, Drinks, and More!</strong></p><p>Don’t forget to stop by the Beer and Wine Garden, hosted by ICONS restaurant, where you can relax and enjoy a drink. Grab a bite to eat from Moonlight Mobile Kitchen or ICONS, serving up delicious lunch and dinner options. For dessert, treat yourself to some ice cream from Jesse’s Ice Cream or The Candlewood Creamery.</p><p><strong>Family Fun for All Ages</strong></p><p>Kids and adults alike will love climbing aboard a real firetruck, participating in engaging activities, and joining the foam party on the lower Memorial Field in the afternoon. Time to Party’s foam experience is sure to be a highlight, offering a foamy blast of fun for everyone!</p><p><strong>Plan to Spend the Day</strong></p><p>Linda Lull, Director of Parks and Recreation, encourages everyone to plan on spending the day to take full advantage of everything Fair Day has to offer. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to experience it all.</p><p><strong>Stay Connected</strong></p><p>For more information, visit the New Fairfield Park and Recreation Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NFParksRec" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/NFParksRec</a> or call 203-312-5633. Don’t miss out on this incredible community event—plenty of parking is available, so bring the whole family for a day of fun, food, and entertainment!</p>

<h3>"The Best of Broadway" Benefits Sandy Hook Promise</h3><p>On September 22nd, Connecticut will welcome a remarkable lineup of Broadway stars for a benefit performance supporting Sandy Hook Promise at the SHU Community Theatre in Fairfield, CT. This event, titled "The Best of Broadway," is the brainchild of Dodie Pettit, a former Broadway performer in <em>Cats</em> and <em>Phantom of the Opera</em>. The inspiration for the benefit arose when her husband, folk legend Rex Fowler, was asked to perform his song "Living In America" for a new Sandy Hook Promise film titled <em>A Father’s Promise</em>.</p><p>The documentary <em>A Father’s Promise</em> tells the story of Mark Barden, whose son Daniel was tragically killed in the Sandy Hook school shooting. Deeply moved by the mission of Sandy Hook Promise to combat gun violence, Dodie reached out to the foundation in January 2024, seeking permission to gather Broadway performers for a fundraising event aimed at raising awareness and support for gun violence prevention.</p><p>The benefit will feature an extraordinary array of talent, including two-time Tony Award winner James Naughton (<em>City of Angels, Chicago</em>), Craig Schulman (<em>Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Jekyll and Hyde</em>), Alton Fitzgerald White (original Mufasa in <em>The Lion King</em>), Robert Cuccioli (Tony-nominated for <em>Jekyll &amp; Hyde</em>), Gay Willis (<em>Showboat</em>), Frank Mastrone (original cast member of <em>Phantom of the Opera</em>), Terry Eldh (<em>Phantom of the Opera</em>), Paul Schoeffler (<em>Rock of Ages, Sweet Charity</em>), Scott Mikita (<em>Phantom of the Opera</em>), Ted Keegan (<em>Phantom of the Opera</em>), and Keith Buterbaugh (<em>Phantom of the Opera</em>).</p><p>The evening will also include performances by Joseph Gray, the long-time opening act at Amateur Night at the Apollo, as well as Paige Backus and Grace Hutchinson, recipients of the Connecticut Dance School Kevin Gray Scholarship, named in honor of Dodie Pettit’s late husband, Kevin Gray. Dodie and Rex will also take the stage as part of Aztec Two-Step 2.0, with Beth Ertz, who has orchestrated for Barbra Streisand, Willie Nelson, and Plácido Domingo, serving as the music director.</p><p>When asked why they chose to participate in this event and support the work of Sandy Hook Promise, the artists expressed their deep commitment to the cause. Dodie Pettit shared, "The Sandy Hook tragedy never left my heart and consciousness. Six weeks after the tragedy, I lost my husband to a heart attack; that time period is stamped into my soul forever. This concert is my way of doing more, much more."</p><p>Frank Mastrone recalled, "The day of the Sandy Hook tragedy, I was rehearsing with over 100 elementary school children. We continued the rehearsal because we didn’t want fear and sadness to win. We cannot let hate and sadness win today. That is how we honor the victims of senseless violence."</p><p>Keith Buterbaugh emphasized, "As an adult, I am morally responsible for the safety of children. My hope is that this small contribution will help achieve that."</p><p>Connecticut resident Terry Eldh added, "The Sandy Hook tragedy happened in my backyard. Anything I can do to prevent another is a priority for me."</p><p>Paige Backus, a student at Connecticut Dance School, expressed her dedication to the cause, stating, "I am dancing for Sandy Hook Promise because more young adults my age need to be educated on this topic. Hesitating to take action against gun violence only makes it happen more often."</p><p>For those interested in sponsoring the event, making a donation, or advertising in the program, please contact co-producer Lorie Lewis at lslewis24@gmail.com.</p><p>For tickets, a full cast list, and more information, visit <a href="http://broadwaypromise.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">broadwaypromise.com</a>.</p>

<p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;Governor Ned Lamont today announced the impending launch of the In-Home Safety Grant Program, a new state grant program administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services aimed at enhancing the safety and security of home health care workers in Connecticut.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Established by the enactment of&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gtyjtdy-thjikyltn-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>Public Act 24-19</strong></a>&nbsp;– which was approved by the Connecticut General Assembly during the 2024 regular legislative session and then signed into law by Governor Lamont – this program will provide grants to home health and access agencies to fund improved safety protocols and support services for their workers. This includes items such as emergency alert buttons, buddy escort systems, tracking devices, safety training, risk-scoring tools, safety consultants, and the establishment of dedicated phone lines for staff in the field to access immediate support.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Ensuring the safety and well-being of both our home health care workers and the individuals they serve is a top priority for the state,”&nbsp;<strong>Governor Lamont said</strong>. “This grant program is a significant step towards providing the necessary tools and training to protect workers who provide an invaluable service to our state, especially for those who are most vulnerable. I look forward to a continued collaboration with our community partners to maximize the impact of these resources and increase the safety of home health care workers.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Prioritizing the safety of our caretakers took precedence this year,”&nbsp;<strong>Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said</strong>. “A disproportionate number of home health care workers are women and women of color who serve in our vulnerable communities every single day. It is important we provide safer environments and the training and skills necessary for them to do their jobs without personal risk.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“By investing in these safety measures, we are not only protecting our dedicated health care workers, but also ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality care in the safest possible environment,”&nbsp;<strong>Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves said</strong>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Creating this program was a specific priority for many lawmakers this year. The legislation that authorized it was approved by votes of&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gtyjtdy-thjikyltn-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>34 to 1 in the Senate</strong></a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gtyjtdy-thjikyltn-b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>112 to 37 in the House of Representatives</strong></a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) said</strong>, “Making life easier for the people who work tirelessly to support so many in our state is something sorely needed, which is why this program was part of Senate Bill 1 this year – our foremost priority as a caucus. Home care workers perform vital care for countless Connecticut residents, and they should be able to go to work without concerns over their safety. These workers enable many frail and elderly people to continue living in their own homes rather than in institutions and deserve our gratitude, support, and protection.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said</strong>, “Violence is unfortunately a growing problem for health workers, especially home care workers. After the deaths of multiple home care workers in late 2023 and early 2024 in Connecticut, including the murder of home care nurse Joyce Grayson, we need to do better by those who keep us safe. I’m glad this grant program will become a new resource helping the hardworking individuals who perform necessary, personal care for so many.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport Fairfield), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said</strong>, “Our job is to help the helpers and protect home health care workers who are doing their jobs – helping others. Through new provisions including safety training and emergency alerts, our state is making critical progress in protecting both workers and patients alike. I thank Governor Lamont and all of our community partners for their support for this bill.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>State Senator Heather Somers (R-Groton), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said</strong>, “Home health care workers are the unsung heroes who provide essential care to our most vulnerable residents, often at great personal risk. They face numerous challenges, including the threat of violence, while performing their duties. We are proud to have passed legislation that will provide much-needed grants to home health and access agencies to fund enhanced safety protocols and support services, ensuring a safer working environment for these invaluable workers.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-Beacon Falls, Derby, Seymour), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said</strong>, “I’m happy these grants are being made available to help provide the training and resources to create a safer working environment for our dedicated home healthcare workers. Protecting home healthcare workers was a priority this session and these funds and the increased and enhanced training and oversight will undoubtedly provide increased safety and peace of mind.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>State Representative Jane Garibay (D-Windsor, Windsor Locks), co-chair of the legislature’s Aging Committee, said</strong>, “This grant program will help to ensure that our home health care workers, so dedicated in their service to our elderly and other vulnerable populations, can now have the tools and resources they need to assure workplace safety and wellbeing. Our home health care workers deserve an environment free from violence or harassment. Prioritizing workplace safety was a primary goal of Speaker Ritter and the Aging Committee. It benefits our aging population, and I am proud to have been a part of supporting this effort.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Home health and access agencies interested in applying for grants can begin submitting applications to the Connecticut Department of Social Services starting August 7, 2024. An online application form will be made available on that date at&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-gtyjtdy-thjikyltn-q/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>portal.ct.gov/dss/common-elements/home-and-community-based-services</strong></a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The application process is designed to ensure timely and efficient distribution of funds, allowing agencies to quickly implement these crucial safety measures. The first round of grants are anticipated to be released by the end of October.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The initial launch of this program is being financially supported by $6 million in funding allocated by the Connecticut General Assembly and Governor Lamont through funding the state received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.</p><p><br></p>

<p><strong>NEW FAIRFIELD TOWN FAIR</strong></p><p><strong>SATURDAY, September 7th rain date Sept. 8th 12-5PM On Memorial Field (behind Town Hall)</strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong>The NOT SORRY BAND and the Westchester Circus Aerial and Acrobatic Arts will perform</strong></p><p><strong>throughout the day.</strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Entertainment Provided by Sponsors:</strong></p><p><strong>The Nicholas J. DiTullio Foundation</strong></p><p><strong>New Fairfield Animal Hospital</strong></p><p><strong>NF Democratic Town Committee</strong></p><p><strong>New Fairfield Mobil</strong></p><p><strong>Savings Bank of Danbury</strong></p><p><strong>UnionSavings Bank and World Champion Taekwondo New Fairfield</strong></p><p><strong>&nbsp;Over 50 Local Businesses &amp; Organizations</strong></p><p><strong>NF Fire Department truck display</strong></p><p><strong>Food and Beverages by Moonlight Mobil Kitchen,</strong></p><p><strong>ICONS &amp; Candlewood Creamery</strong></p><p><strong>For information call:203-312-5633</strong></p>

<p>Musicals at Richter (MAR), now in its 40 th season as the longest-runningoutdoor theater in Connecticut, concludes its 2024 with “Seussical Jr.,” performed by students from its Summer Youth Musical Theater Workshop. Staged on the grounds of the</p><p>Richter Arts Center in Danbury, performances take place outdoors under the stars at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, August 15-17.</p><p>Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in “Seussical Jr..” a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.</p><p>Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that&amp;#39;s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!</p><p>Directed by Ciara Cuneo (Patterson, NY) with music direction by Vincent Fontenelli (Danbury) and choreography by April Smith (New Fairfield), “Seussical Jr.” features a talented cast of young area performers.</p><p>Featured in the cast are Laila Ingio (Danbury) as The Cat in the Hat, Emma Hoffman (Brookfield) as JoJo, Mia Roche (Bethel) as Horton the Elephant and Hailey Mott (Bethel) as Gertrude McFuzz. Sofia Feliciano (Ridgefield) takes on the role of Mayzie La Bird, joined by Leah Hayes (Danbury), Zoe Morales (Danbury) and Brienna Oromaner (Bethel) as Bird Girls. Oromaner also plays Mrs. Mayor.</p><p><br></p><p>Claire Hayes (Danbury) portrays Mr. Mayor. The mischievous Wickersham Brothers are played by Catalina Alves (Danbury),, Skyler Browne (Patterson, NY), Daniela Coto-Perez (Ridgefield), Andrew Williams (Danbury) and Jake Zanotti (Danbury). Aliyah Oromaner (Bethel) portrays the opinionated Sour Kangaroo and Addie Pasko (Brookfield) takes on the roles of Judge Yertle the Turtle and The Grinch. MAR Executive Director Robert Bria makes a special appearance asVlad Vladikoff.</p><p>“Seussical Jr.” is performed on the outdoor stage at the Richter Arts Center (next to the Richter Park Golf Course, I-84, Exit 2), 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury. Tickets for this summer youth performance cost $15 for adults, $10 for seniors/students (with I.D.) and $5 for children 10 and under, and may be purchased through the Musicals at Richter website (www.musicalsatrichter.org) or at the door. Grounds open at 7 p.m. for picnicking, with curtain at 8:00 p.m. Audience members are invited to bring their own blankets or chairs for lawn seating; a limited number of chairs are available free-of-charge. A soft drink/snack concession is on-site.</p><p>Now in its 40th season at Richter Park, Musicals at Richter is Connecticut’s longest-running outdoor theater. Performances take place at the Richter Arts Center (next to the Richter Park Golf Course), 100 Aunt Hack Road, in Danbury. Nestled in the hills of Western Connecticut, the Arts Center stage has served as the scenic backdrop for over 100 musicals and workshop performances produced by Musicals at Richter, as well as a professional springboard for hundreds of up-and-coming performers. Musicals at Richter is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. For further information, visit the website at<a href="http://www.musicalsatrichter.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> www.musicalsatrichter.org</a>, leave a message at 203-748-6873 or e-mail <a href="mailto:info@musicalsatrichter.org." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@musicalsatrichter.org.</a></p>