Stay dry! Wander through this week’s online art gallery.
To our artists: No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we want your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.
Just email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in.
Egret (Amy Schneider)
“New Day Dawning” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (John Maloney)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled — mixed media collage (June Rose Whittaker — Available for sale; click here)
“The Nonconformist” — horseshoe crab art (Eric Bosch — Available for purchase; click here)
“Sent into the Woods” (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)
“Beak Envy” (Mike Hibbard)
Untitled (Martin Ripchick)
“A Branch and Leaves For Our Sukkah Roof” — graphite and watercolor (Steve Stein)
“Say So Long to Summer” (Laurie Sorensen)
Entrance is free to our online art gallery –as it has been for 6 years. But please consider an anniversary donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
It’s late September. Can “Nutcracker” season be far behind?
Tchaikovsky’s ballet is a staple of dance companies across America. Young girls (and a few young boys) spend weeks rehearsing their roles as mice, bunnies, horses and snowflakes.
Often though, the main roles — like Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara – are danced by professionals.
Those roles are demanding and complex — perhaps beyond the capabilities of a local child.
But when Norwalk Metropolitan Youth Ballet’s “Nutcracker” takes the Westport Country Playhouse stage on December 5 (1 and 6 p.m.), every role will be danced by a student.
Alissa Zimon portrays Clara. The Greens Farms Elementary School 5th grader will perform on her hometown stage.
Alissa Zimon will dance as Clara. (Photo/Mark Smith)
It’s a fine moment for NMYB (and their milestone 10th “Nutcracker”).
The company may not be as well known as the larger ballet academies in the area.
But they’re making a mark, And it starts with the culture that artistic director Adam Holms has created.
There is a genuine sense that — even in the pressure-filled world of dance — everyone belongs, everyone contributes, and everyone is celebrated.
He’s a local boy, from Fairfield. Walking to Tomlinson Middle School, he’d pass Joe Vilane’s studio, and wonder what went on inside. At 15 years old — just a few years after he started dancing — he left Fairfield High to dance professionally, with the Joffrey Ballet.
At Butler University — where he studied ballet pedagogy – Holms realized he also loved history. He taught middle school for 4 years in Decatur, Indiana, gaining confidence that he could handle just about any situation with young people.
After earning a master’s at New York University Holms opened a one-room studio on Norwalk’s Main Street. “It was ‘Little House on the Prairie,'” he recalls. “All the grades were mixed together.
Now, in a bigger space on the same street, NMYB is thriving.
Quietly.
Getting ready to rehearse. (Photo/Mark Smith)
Fifteen percent of his 100 or so students are male, Holms notes with pride. They come from different towns and backgrounds — and different levels of experience — but he welcomes them all, whoever and whatever they are.
Holms understands the allure of professionals in “The Nutcracker.” “They increase ticket sales, and give kids someone to look to,” he says.
Yet that’s not the way he rolls.
“I want to showcase you,” the artistic director says. “Most kids here won’t go on to be professional dancers. I want them to wear tiaras and tutus for every role, and hear the applause.”
He’s an unlikely role model himself. “I have a beard and tattoos,” he says. (One is of “The Nutcracker.”)
“But I’ll dancers how to skip, partner and wear pointe shoes. Once people buy into that, they love it.” Training includes ballet, pointe, jazz, contemporary, acro and pas de deux.
Adam Holms (Photo/Mark Smith)
While remaining local, students get global exposure and meaningful artistic opportunities. Norwalk Metropolitan has twice been named an Outstanding School by Youth America Grand Prix.
NMYB welcomes students from 4 years old through high school graduates. Most are between 9 and 13.
“That’s the most magical time,” Holms says. “In the beginning, ballet is rough. There’s a lot of repetition and muscle memory. But once they start soaring, it’s so exciting.
“There is no fast route to ballet. You have to be committed for a decade. But every time I see them doing what major ballet companies do, it’s incredible.”
Holms’ studio is a “parent-free zone.” There’s no watching through windows.
:I want kids to feel that this is their house — their safe area,” the director says. “I want them to learn to be autonomous, through ballet.”
Adam Holms, with members of his Ensemble Etoile. (Photos/Andrea Carson)
“Nutcracker” is not the only production. There’s a mid-winter contemporary showcase, and a full-length dance (this year it’s “Don Quixote” — also at the Playhouse.)
The historic theater costs more to rent than a school auditorium. But it’s important, Holms says, for young dancers to have dressing rooms, stage lights, a stage manager — and learn to respect it all.
Annabelle Gorski and Isaac Bailey are NMYB alums who have danced principal roles in “The Nutcracker.” (Annabelle had a great offer from the Kansas City Ballet, but chose to return to her home studio.)
Now Alissa Zimon will follow them. She has been encouraged not only by her ballet school mentors and fellow dancers, but by GFS educators Stacy Fowle, Suzanne Propp and Angela Belta.
From now through December 5, it’s “crunch time,” Holms says. The dancers are rehearsing regularly, for every role from mice, bunnies, horses and snowflakes, to Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara.
And — except for the staff of 6 — there will not be a professional in sight.
(For more information on Norwalk Metropolitan Youth Ballet, click here.)
(“06880” regularly features news of the arts, and of young people — and, like today, their intersection. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Our series of Staples Players’ highlight reels continues with the spring 2016 production of “The Drowsy Chaperone.”
The farce parodying 1920 American musical comedy was a different show for directors David Roth and Kerry Long.
Of course, it was a smash.
As always, this nutshell comes courtesy of former Staples media instructor Jim Honeycutt. Click here or below to see.
In the decade since, many actors have gone on to successful careers, both onstage and off. For example:
Christian Melhuish (Robert Martin) is a singer, actor and dancer in New York. After graduating from Temple University with a BFA in musical theater, Christian has performed regionally around the country. Credits include Jesus (“Godspell”), Romeo (“Romeo & Juliet”) and Bob Gaudio (“Jersey Boys”). He has also performed Off-Broadway and in cabarets and staged readings.
Keanan Pucci (Robert Martin, Butler) graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, contributing to virtual production pipelines and visual development for projects like Netflix’s “Escape from Hat.” His film credits include “An Inconsistent Story in Stealing. Click here for a showcase of his interactive and 3D work.
Colin McKechnie (George) is part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”
Remy Laifer (Feldzeig) is a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”
Wellington Baumann (Feldzeig) is a litigation associate at Fried Frank in New York City. focusing on white collar criminal defense, commercial disputes and real estate litigation. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and the Washington & Lee University School of Law.
Julia Mandelbaum (Kitty) graduated from Rider University. She performed professionally in “Evita,” “Singing in the Rain,” and more
Jimmy Ray Stagg (Gangster #2) is a sketch writer and performer associated with The Second City. He also performs with the independent comedy group Penny For Your Intrusive Thoughts.
Jacob Leaf(Adolpho) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.
Caroline Didelot(Janet Van De Graff) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.
Jordan Goodness (The Drowsy Chaperone) is an SEO manager. Her specialties include writing, content marketing, keyword research, data analysis and technical SEO.
Mackenzie Lavoie (Reporters, Maid)earned a bachelor of science in arts administration, combined arts and a minor in film and media studies at Wagner College. She is a communications and PR professional specializing in strategic storytelling, media relations and brand positioning.
Nick Ribolla (Gangster #1) is an actor and archival producer known for his work on documentary-style and short film projects including “The Janes,” “Love & Stuff” and “Maybe Next Time.”
Daniel Pauker (Superintendent, Butler) is a technical animator. He has a passion for 3D software and systems.
Mikayla Czizik (Bridesmaid) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School. She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut.
Mia Kobylinski (Bridesmaid) is a designer at Snake River Interiors. Her love of travel and photography help her gather design inspiration from all over the world.
Zoe Samuels (Bridesmaid) (Bridesmaid) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.
Chad Celini (Butler) is an actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”
Samantha Medina Chachra (The Drowsy Chaperone) is a New York City-based actress, singer-songwriter, and cellist. She incorporates her cello skills into producing pop and corporate music tracks.
Nick Rossi(Butler) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”
Avery Mendillo (Maid) is a New York–based actor and singer with roots in musical theatre, and a career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.
Jackie Rhoads(Maid) is a filmmaker, actor, writer and producer, who studied film at Vanderbilt University. She creates and stars in videos on her YouTube channel, which has over 20,000 subscribers, and supports the development team at Fivestone Studios, a production company based in Nashville.
Zoe Fox (Trix the Aviatrix) has extensive acting experience, ranging from “Grease” and “Hello Dolly!” to Shakespeare.
Brooke Wrubel(Maid) is a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University specializing in Early Christian, Byzantine and Western Medieval Art, with a focus on the development of pilgrimage shrines across Italy, Greece and the Holy Land. She holds a BA in art history and Italian studies from Bowdoin College, and an MA in the history of art from the University of Pennsylvania.
A reminder to all our visitors: Each week, many works are for sale.
We’ve revised our email notification system. Artists: Be on the lookout for a new address in your inbox when someone wants to purchase your work.
Remember: No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we want your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.
Just email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in.
“A Yom Kippur Prayer To Be Written and Sealed in the Book of Life For a Peaceful and a Good Year” — watercolor (Steve Stein)
Untitled (Michael Chait — Available for purchase; click here)
“Westport Onions Ready for New York City” (Eric Bosch)
Untitled (Rowene Weems — Available for purchase; click here)
“The Footbridge Over Deadman Brook” (Michael Tomashefsky)
“Saugatuck Station Power Grid” (John Maloney)
“Rings of Life” (Jerry Kuyper)
“Once Upon a Time” (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)
“A Little Music” — June Rose Whittaker (Available for purchase — click here)
Untitled — acrylic and sharpie (Susan Celuch)
“Croatian Boy in Cavtat” Wendy Levy)
“Traffic” (Robbie Sumberg)
“This Ol’ Dawg Ain’t Gonna Learn Any New Tricks!” (Mike Hibbard)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery –as it has been for 6 years. But please consider an anniversary donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
Closure of the Green’s Farms post office after Sunday’s storm has been an inconvenience to patrons.
And not just because it’s an easy-to-park-it, always-uncrowded alternative to the always-busy Playhouse Square location.
Locked doors meant people with PO boxes could not access them.
Now, a note alerts all box holders to knock on the side door. Postmaster Suzannie Swaine will hand you your mail.
The building suffered serious damage. At the height of the storm, the interior was inundated with up to 5 inches of water. In nearly 25 years at Green’s Farms, Swaine had never seen that.
She and a fellow postal worker spent Monday and Tuesday cleaning up, and throwing away water-damaged materials. Not a single piece of mail was lost.
A postal technician was scheduled to reset or replace the server that works the computerized mail and postage equipment. Until that is done, the branch is closed to walk-in traffic.
Box holders may get their mail weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Green’s Farms post office, in dryer days.(Photo/Bobbie Herman)
He said that DPW is also reviewing reports of lingering standing water near Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue, and debris in nearby drainage structures.
A homeowner on nearby Norwalk Avenue — one of 4 roads between Soundview Drive and Bradley Street — wants to make sure that town officials know about their plight too.
He writes: “The drains in front of 6 Norwalk have backed up several times this summer, even before this most recent storm.
“I’ve been in contact with the town engineer. He assured me everything operated as intended, but I want to be sure the right town officials are aware that the marina pump situation responsible for the drains on our street should be evaluated as well.”
Here are 2 photos of the flooding on Sunday, after the rain ended.
Westport resident Meredith Gerard is a sepsis survivor.
She has worked hard to bring more awareness to the life-threatening medical emergency: knowing the signs, understanding how quickly it can happen, and the importance of getting treatment fast.
Her advocacy to get the state to recognize September as Sepsis Awareness Month has paid off.
Locally, Westport declared September 14 Sepsis Awareness Day. 1st Selectman Kevin Christie presented the proclamation to Meredith and and her family at Town Hall.
The effects of sepsis did not end when she left the hospital. It has had a lasting impact on me and my family over the past several years. She is proud that her children see that when something difficult happens, it can turn into an experience that helps others.
Among the signs of sepsis:
Fever above 100.4°F, or body temperature below 96.5°F.
Signs or symptoms of a current infection (like a cough, painful urination, or a red wound).
Mental Decline: Extreme confusion, sleepiness, or trouble waking up.
Extremely Ill: Severe pain, shortness of breath, or a feeling like you might die.
Meredith Gerard (2nd from right), 1st Selectman Kevin Christie (holding proclamation), and family and friends.
Ruff to Radiant is a mobile pet grooming service in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
The other day Katie, the owner, was working with a dog named Stella. When Katie was done, Stella ran into her back yard.
She fell into a pool, and was drowning.
When the owner jumped in and got her out, she was not breathing. Katie laid her on the driveway, and performed chest compressions and “mouth to snout” CPR.
Within a minute, she regained her pulse.
Stella was taken to the vet. She went home that day, with oxygen and a heating blanket.
Earth Animal has asked Katie to teach a class on dog CPR. We’ll provide more details when we get them. (Hat tip: Jann Colabella)
Mark Mathias writes: “A big, noisy, yellow truck came down Juniper Road this morning.
“It was cleaning and filling cracks in the road with tar. Then another worker put some sand or other abrasive on top of the tar to give it some traction.
“Hopefully, this will keep water from getting into the roads, freezing (and expanding), and then cracking the roads during the winter.
“Thanks to our Public Works department for making this investment in our roads!”
Three Indigenous grandmothers lead a day of conversation and learning tomorrow (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
Indigenous grandmothers: Nana Williams (Mayan spiritual guide), Marsha Forest (Wisdom Keeper of Mohawk ancestry), and Nancy Andry (Algonquin and French heritage).
This Sunday (September 20, 9 to 11 a.m.), ALT executive director David Brant leads a hike of its newest addition: the 15-acre Plummer property, formerly owned by actor Christopher Plummer and his wife Elaine. The hike is of intermediate difficulty. Click here for more information.
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The next Staples High School sports team fundraising car wash is tomorrow (Saturday, September 19, 12 to 4 p.m., 176 Post Road West — former Carvana property opposite Kings Highway School)
Clarendon Fine Art’s next exhibit features Brian Keith Stephens.
His paintings use familiar creatures to explore human emotion and behavior. His work has appeared in more than 100 exhibitions internationally since 1996.
Stephens will be at the opening reception (October 3, 6 to 8 p.m.).
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Barboletta — a Santana tribute band — brought their powerhouse music to the Levitt Pavilion last night.
They’ve become a Levitt tradition. The band includes local musicians from different national and international touring acts, including Lotus, Twiddle, The Machine, Deep Banana Blackout and Kung Fu.
Special guest Jason L Terry was an added attraction.
The final event listed on the Levitt calendar is this coming Wednesday (September 23, 7:30 p.m.; free). King Stingray plays “Yoluu surf rock” — with indie and funk influences — that has captivated all of Australia. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)
Barboletta rocks the Levitt. (Photo/Susan Garment)
We’re less than 7 weeks away from an important election.
How free and fair will it be?
The Brennan Center for Justice is working hard to ensure complete freedom and fairness.
The non-profit — inspired by Justice William Brennan’s devotion to democratic freedoms — does not get headlines. But the New York University School of Law-based organization works hard, behind the scenes, to protect elections, counter abuse of presidential power, and encourage transformative ideas that power change.
Their activities include research, publishing, advocacy and impact litigation.
A couple of small events have introduced the Brennan Center to Westporters.
On October 1 (5 to 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport), a larger “friend fundraiser” will raise their profile locally.
Brennan Center director Michael Waldman will join elected officials, for cocktails and conversation. The suggested donation is $100. Click here to register. Questions? Email danlev314@gmail.com.
Think the assessment on your motor vehicle is too high?
The Board of Assessment Appeals meets on September 23 (6 to 7 p.m., Town Hall lobby).
They’ll hear appeals for the 2025 Grand List. You must bring the vehicle you’re appealing. (Not all the way inside, obviously).
We have no idea what Briggs Cunningham’s C-3 Cabriolet — which he designed himself, seen here at his former Beachside Avenue home — was assessed at in the 1950s. Nor what the assessment is today. We’re guessing a lot: Only 36 were ever built.
They’ll celebrate their almost-century milestone on October 3, at a gala filled with (of course) Broadway talent.
Performers include Santino Fontana. Javier Muñoz, NaTasha Yvette Williams, and our own James Naughton and Kelli O’Hara.
Joyce Hergenhan will be honoed with the Playhouse Leadership Award.
Tickets begin at $250 (performance and post-show reception). $500 includes a pre-show cocktail party. A $750 ticket adds a premium seat. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Speaking of the Playhouse: “Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance” lights up the Westport Country Playhouse stage next Thursday (September 24, 7 p.m.).
Ailey II — the second company of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater — merges the spirit and energy of early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of outstanding and emerging choreographers.
Ailey II’s repertory will include “In the Moment,” a meditation on presence, transformation and the profound impact of being truly seen; “Open Door,” an enlivening work set to recordings by Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra, and “Night Creature,” a Ailey’s buoyant choreography and Duke Ellington’s music.
Popular local musician/singer/actor Warren Bloom pops into the Westport Book Shop on September 25 (6 to 8 p.m.).
The author of “In and Out of Key” — a memoir of his career, on stage and behind the scenes — will include an introduction by artist Miggs Burroughs, stories and conversation with Warren, a Q-and-A and book signing.
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Westport litigation attorney-turned-young adult author Diana Sussman’s next book drops September 22.
“The Texter’s Secret” tackles a middle school girl dealing with threatening texts and cyberbullying. It’s a fast-paced mystery for readers ages 8 to 14, with a theme that resonates for many tweens and teens.
StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition last year was a winner — and not just for the wheels marketplace platform that won the $20,000 first prize.
Over 75 hopefuls applied. Five were chosen as semi-finalists. For months they honed their ideas, and were mentored by StartUp Westport volunteers.
The energy was sky high at the Westport Library, for the final pitches.
The second Pitch Competition is November 19 (6 p.m., Library). The start-ups are hard at work. Who will make it to the stage?
The Westport Woman’s Club is seeking applicants for its Woman’s Scholarship.
The grant supports Fairfield County women 25 and older seeking to complete a degree or certification after following a non-traditional educational path after high school.
Scholarships are based on financial need to those who have demonstrated resilience, resourcefulness, and a commitment to growth.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between September 9 and 15.
A 25-year-old Rahway, New Jersey man was charged with identity theft, forgery, larceny and unlawful possession of a personal identifying information access device, following an investigation into check fraud at Maplewood Senior Living. He was held on a $75,000 bond.
A 31-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with assault, interfering with an officer and breach of peace, following an assault, with fists and neck pressure, in a vehicle at the Wheels gas station. The man walked away from the scene, but was tracked by a canine to the Sherwood Island commuter parking lot. He was released on a $10,000 bond.
A 44-year-old Norwalk man was charged with operating under the influence of alcohol/drugs, following a report that a vehicle had pulled into a Charcoal Hill Common driveway, and the driver appeared to be intoxicated. Officers responded, and found the vehicle traveling on the wrong side of the road, nearly hitting a police vehicle. He was released on a $500 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to renew registration: 3 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
Failure to obey state traffic control signals: 2
School zone violation: 1
Texting while driving
Improper passing: 1
Unsafe movement of a stopped motor vehicle: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Out-of-state plate violation: 1
Littering on public property: 1.
Westport Police made one arrest for littering. Take that, Arlo Guthrie and Officer Obie!
We run an occasional full moon photo, as part of our “Westport … Naturally” series.
But a crescent moon can be interesting too. Becky Keeler captured this image over the Saugatuck Rowing Club, across the river. The pink reflection is particularly intriguing.
(Photo/Becky Keeler)
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And finally … in honor of the littering arrest, noted in the Police Reports above (perhaps the first we’ve ever seen here):
(It takes Arlo Guthrie nearly 20 minutes to tell his story. You can read ours on “06880” much more quickly. And it takes just a few seconds to click here, and support this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)
This morning’s “06880” lead story — about Sunday’s flooding at Compo Beach — noted that 1st Selectman Kevin Christie had not responded to a request for comment.
Shortly after 6:30 a.m. today, he emailed: “I saw this email from Sunday evening, but did not get back to you while we were still in active emergency response mode.
“We recognize the significant impact the flooding has had on residents and businesses throughout town. We have been looking into this as part of our broader post-flood assessment, and we’ll follow up when we have more complete information.”
Compo Beach floodwaters.
More details on Sunday’s storm: Westport emergency responders handled 130 flood-related calls, rescued 13 people from vehicles, and evacuated 5 residents from a care facility.
Town officials continue working to document the extent of the damage to residences, businesses and public infrastructure.
“We recognize the disruption and damage this event has caused and sincerely thank Westport residents and businesses for their patience, cooperation and understanding,” says 1st Selectman Kevin Christie.
“We are incredibly grateful to our first responders, Public Works crews, emergency dispatchers, utility workers, volunteers and everyone who worked tirelessly to protect our community and begin the recovery process.”
Flood waters have receded. Damage assessments continue.
We talk a great deal about what it takes to make a democracy work, and how one participates.
Next week, we have an opportunity to hear from leaders who wrestle with the question — and are doing something about it.
Michael Roth, president of Wesleyan University; Rajiv Vinnakota, president of Citizens & Scholars, and Daniel Lugo, president of Trinity College, are part of a national effort, involving more than 140 college leaders. They focus on preparing the next generation for active participation in our democracy.
The event — “Civics and the Next Generation of Changemakers” — is September 23, Westport). A reception begins at 6 p.m.; the panel follows at 7.
Speaking of the Library: Monday marked the dedication of its newest sculpture.
“Circle of Peace” has been drawing plenty of attention, outside the upper level entrance.
The work was donated to Westport’s Public Art Collections by an anonymous donor. It was installed at Save the Children headquarters, until the organization left Westport in 2014.
Triple Threat Academy students Sophie Goldman, Carlos Velasquez Escamilla and Camilo Velasquez Escamilla cut the ribbon. The brief ceremony ended with children singing “Song of Peace.”
1st Selectman Kevin Christie (left), Westport Arts Advisory co-chair Nancy Diamond (rear), former Save the Children CEO Carolyn Miles and Westport Library director Bill Harmer with children, at the sculpture dedication.
And … the “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot tomorrow (Thursday, September 17), for a session on “Tips for Resumés and Cover Letters.”
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
Among the casualties of Sunday’s 7 inches of rain: the Green’s Farms post office.
A sign on the door yesterday said they were closed, due to a power outage. Patrons were advised to use the Westport, Southport or Fairfield post offices.
If you have a PO box there though, you were out of luck.
And there’s no information either on how long the much-loved branch will be shut.
Green’s Farms post office door. (Photo and hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)
But preparing for the annual Westport Rotary Club fundraiser takes time.
This was the scene yesterday, at Compo Beach:
(Photo/Ed Simek)
If you’ve got tickets: See you there.
If you don’t: You’re out of luck.
The event sold out — as it always does — almost instantly.
In that case, we’ll see you in 2027.
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Seen — but not seeing well — at the Post Road/Sylvan Road intersection:
(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)
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Last year, Zhu Wang and Ye-Eun Hyun took top honors at the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition, held right here at MoCA\CT.
They embarked on a worldwide tour.
Now, ln Friday (September 18, 7 p.m.) the 2 young pianists return to Westport, for a special laureate concert. Their program includes Beethoven, Brahms and Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”
In the fall of 2015, Staples Players staged another classic musical: “Fiddler on the Roof.”
It’s a challenging show: heavy themes, complex music, foreign cultures and accents.
As they always do, directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s high school troupes rose to the occasion.
And surpassed it.
Media instructor Jim Honeycutt taped the production. As he does each week now, he edited the 2 casts into 1 highlight reel. Click here or below to enjoy this great “tradition.”
Many cast members have gone on to great things, on and off the stage. Among them:
Jacob Leaf(Tevye) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.
Julia Mandelbaum (Tzeitel) graduated from Rider University. She performed professionally in “Evita,” “Singing in the Rain,” and more.
Caroline Didelot (Hodel) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.
Zoe Samuels (Yente, the Matchmaker) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.
Jimmy Ray Stagg (Lazar Wolf, the butcher) is a sketch writer and performer associated with The Second City. He also performs with the independent comedy group Penny For Your Intrusive Thoughts.
Wellington Baumann (Mordcha, the innkeeper) is a litigation associate at Fried Frank in New York City. focusing on white collar criminal defense, commercial disputes and real estate litigation. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and the Washington & Lee University School of Law.
Keanan Pucci (Appa) graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, contributing to virtual production pipelines and visual development for projects like Netflix’s “Escape from Hat.” His film credits include “An Inconsistent Story in Stealing. Click here for a showcase of his interactive and 3D work.
Christian Melhuish (Appa) is a singer, actor and dancer in New York. After graduating from Temple University with a BFA in musical theater, Christian has performed regionally around the country. Credits include Jesus (“Godspell”), Romeo (“Romeo & Juliet”) and Bob Gaudio (“Jersey Boys”). He has also performed Off-Broadway and in cabarets and staged readings.
Mackenzie Lavoie(Shandel, Motel’s mother) earned a bachelor of science in arts administration, combined arts and a minor in film and media studies at Wagner College. She is a communications and PR professional specializing in strategic storytelling, media relations and brand positioning.
Mikayla Czizik(Etil) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School. She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut.
Avery Mendillo(Samara) is a New York-based actor and singer, with roots in musical theatre and a growing career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.
Remy Laifer (Motel Kamzoil, Yosef) s a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”
Nick Ribolla(Perchick, the student)
Daniel Pauker (Mendel, the Rabbi’s son, Mandel) is a technical animator. He has a passion for 3D software and systems.
Chad Celini (Arlin) is an American actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”
Colin McKechnie (Soloman) s part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”
Nick Rossi(Shmuel) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”
Jake Watzman(Benyamin) is an American voice actor and theatre performer. He graduated with a BA in theatre from Muhlenberg College. He is recognized for his work in indie animation, visual novels, and voiceover projects.
The Westport Country Playhouse recently completed a very successful run of “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.”
Then, Bruce Miller turned his attention to another mystery.
The Playhouse archivist and cultural associate emailed a painting to “06880.”
Bruce said that Ben Doyle recently brought the artwork, which had belonged to his grandfather, to the Playhouse.
Bruce said “it appears to show the theater by the shore, possibly at Longshore near the marina. Ben thinks his grandfather may have been involved with the early planners at Longshore, and this might have been a concept they were considering.”
Close — but not quite.
The painting by Peter Dohanos — son of famed illustrator Stevan Dohanos — is actually an artist’s rendition of Stony Point. That’s the land just beyond the high red brick wall on the south side of the Westport train station’s eastbound parking lot. Stony Point is a peninsula bordered by the Saugatuck River, all the way to where it meets Long Island Sound.
Stony Point today (left of the river). The train station and tracks are at top.
Dohanos’ painting says “Westport Country Playhouse.” That’s a mystery, because it was done around the time that Stony Brook property was being considered as the home of a new “American Shakespeare Theatre.”
The idea came from Lawrence Langner. In 1930 — more than 20 years earlier –the Weston resident turned an apple orchard and old tannery into the Westport Country Playhouse.
By the mid-20th century, Stony Point was a shadow of its former elegant self. Decades earlier a New York banker, his wife and 2 daughters lived there, in a handsome Victorian mansion built around 1890. The grounds included an enormous carriage house, gardener’s cottage, barn and hothouse.
After the daughters inherited the home, the New York, New Haven & Hartford railroad purchased some of the land for a new train station. (The original one was on the other side of the river.)
The Stony Point wall today. It separates the peninsula from the train station.
The second daughter bequeathed the estate to the Hospital for the Crippled and Ruptured (whose name was later changed, mercifully, to the New York Hospital for Special Surgery).
But the property fell into disuse. Eventually the hospital sold Stony Point to real estate developers.
Which brings us to Shakespeare.
Around 1950 Langner, Lincoln Kirstein of Lincoln Center and arts patron Joseph Verner Reed had audacious plans. They wanted to build an American Shakespeare Theatre and Academy.
And they wanted it on Stony Point. Proximity to the train station was a major piece of the plan.
The price for all 21 acres: $200,000.
But according to Westport News writer Shirley Land, “the hand of fate and the town fathers combined to defeat the efforts of the theatre people.” Many residents objected.
There were also concerns that it would draw audiences away from the Westport Country Playhouse. (Others argued that a Shakespeare Theatre would enhance the town’s reputation as an arts community.)
The theater was never built here. It opened a few miles away –in the aptly named town of Stratford — in 1955.
It achieved moderate success. But in 1982 the theater ran out of money (and backers). The state of Connecticut took ownership. It closed in 1985. In 2019, it burned to the ground in an early morning fire.
The entrance to Stony Point.
Meanwhile, in 1956 Westporters Leo Nevas and Nat Greenberg, along with Hartford’s Louis Fox, bought the Stony Point property for residential development.
It’s now considered one of the town’s choicest addresses. Homes have been listed there for $14 million.
That’s quite a story. We can only imagine what might have happened had Westporters decided to support — rather than oppose — the American Shakespeare Festival Theater in Westport.
Then again, as a famous playwright once said: “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.”
ENCORE: Bruce Miller’s email included some interesting connections with the Westport Country Playhouse.
Artist Peter Dohanos’ father Stevan designed WCP program covers for many years.
Peter, meanwhile, was a Playhouse apprentice in 1949. He later became a scenic designer, and worked on “The Swimmer,” the movie filmed in Westport starring Burt Lancaster.
It was directed by Frank Perry, who had been an Playhouse apprentice in 1948. Perry also directed “Mommie Dearest,” about Joan Crawford’s abusive relationship with her daughter Christina. Christina — who wrote the book with the same title — was a Playhouse apprentice in 1957.
Frank Perry (front row, left) during his 1950 Playhouse apprenticeship. It was quite a class. Stephen Sondheim is in the top row, crouching. Also in the photo: Richard Rodgers’ daughter Mary (2nd row, 4th from left).
Ben Doyle (the painting’s owner — remember him?) is on the faculty of Blackrock Theater Company. They’ve performed on the Playhouse stage. He is engaged to Betsabeth Castro, an actress in the WCP production of “Appropriate.”
And Ann Sheffer — a former Stony Point resident, who provided much of the history of the proposed American Shakespeare Theatre described above — is herself a former Westport Country Playhouse apprentice. She was also a longtime board member.
It’s a small theatrical world indeed. And, as a famous playwright once said, “All the world’s a stage.”
One of the most overlooked (so far) local environmental stories involves erosion and related issues at Westport’s beaches.
The “sandbar” (natural, not food) at Compo Beach, and the continuing disappearance of Burying Hill, are 2 noticeable impacts.
On October 1 (6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), RACE Coastal Engineering will present their second Comprehensive Beach Resilience Planning Studies forum.
It covers existing site conditions, potential beach profiles, and anticipated regulatory requirements, among others.
The topic has not been on many residents’ minds. It should be.
Very little actual beach remains at Burying Hill. (Photo/Ed Simek)
In related news, the Parks & Recreation Commission’s September 16 meeting (7:30 p.m., Zoom) includes a couple of interesting items:
Parks Master Plan update
New parks maintenance facility.
Commissioners will also accept a gift to install dugouts at the Greens Farms Elementary School softball field, dedicated to Nat Brogadir.
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Westport firefighters honored 9/11 yesterday, with their annual memorial service at headquarters. This year’s 25th anniversary carried special meaning.
(Photo/Westport Fire Department)
Then came a visit to the Westport Weston Family YMCA.
Three firefighters climbed aboard a Stairmaster, and completed 110 stories.
That’s the number of floors their New York City colleagues attempted to climb in rescue attempts that awful morning, 25 years ago yesterday.
343 FDNY members lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
Westport firefighters, at the YMCA. The TV on the right shows the New York City 9/11 memorial service. (Photo/Christina Scherwin)
Back at headquarters, Westport firefighters were treated to a nice lunch, by Julie and James Whamond.
The meal was accompanied by a note, thanking the WFD for all they do for our town, and for stepping up for Julie’s family 25 years ago. Her husband, Jonathan Uman, was killed in the World Trade Center attack.
Firefighters, with lunch. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)
Also honoring 9/11: this man, spotted by Debra Carson on the Post Road yesterday.
She doesn’t know more about his mission .But we appreciate his journey, and admire his determination.
(Photo/Debra Carson)
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School is back in session.
Parties are in full swing.
And Compo Beach neighbors are not pleased.
For the past 2 weekends, they report, “hundreds” of students — primarily freshmen — have gathered at night on the beach along the Soundview Drive exit road.
Residents report noise and drinking. Police arrive.
One part of the large scene.
Eventually the party ends. “But the seawall and beach are trashed,” one homeowner says.
This morning, Parks & Recreation Department crews cleaned up the mess.
The Harmonetiks Project is a non-profit fostering recovery and resilient leadership for veterans and first responders.
It brings community wellness and veteran support together, as public classes and treatments help fund free care for veterans. The project teaches practical self-care skills through programs including Harmonetiks Easy Breath, acupuncture, tai chi, yoga and more.
Owner Mike Williams is an Army veteran and former combat medic.
Harmonetiks opened a training center at 420 Post Road West last month. A grand opening is set for today (Saturday, 12 noon). The public is invited. Click here for more information.
Harmonetiks Project
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Westporters are enjoying the town’s newest outdoor art.
“Circle of Peace” — a bronze sculpture outside the upper entrance to the Westport Library — is a playful work that invites passersby to stop and smile.
It will be officially dedicated on Monday (September 14, 5 p.m.). The public is invited.
Youngsters enjoying “Circle of Peace.” (Photo/Jamie Walsh)
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Speaking of the Library: An extra-special author talk takes places October 2 (7 p.m.). Ocean Vuong discussed his new bestseller, “The Emperor of Gladness.” Oprah Winfrey picked it for her Book Club.
Born in Saigon and raised in a working-class Hartford household, he set his latest storyin the fictional town of East Gladness, Connecticut.
The theme is survival. The book tackles the daily weight of caregiving, poverty, addiction, family by choice, and the strange relief that comes when another human being truly notices you when you feel invisible.
Vuong has spoken about Buddhism, the reality of suffering, and how he might have ended up as a monk if writing had not found him first. He’ll be joined on stage by poet, memoirist, and Yale Review editor Meghan O’Rourke.
Speaking (as before) of art: MoCA\CT celebrated the opening of “Michael Borders: Connecticut Industry” with a public reception Thursday night.
On view through November 15, the exhibition includes 8 monumental painted panels by the Connecticut artist. Individually and collectively, the offer a vivid portrait of our state’s history, industries, landscapes and communities.
Great actors are a Westport Country Playhouse tradition.
But what does it take to get stage — there, or anywhere else?
On Sunday, September 20, Andrew Keenan-Bolger — the original Crutchie in “Newsies” on Broadway — offers 2 master classes for students.
“Building Characters from the Inside Out” gives participants a chance to explore character development through monologue work, script analysis and imaginative storytelling.
The middle school class is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The high school session follows, from 2 to 4.
Summer is over. But the Levitt Pavilion keeps rockin’.
A new free show has been added to the calendar. King Stingray brings their unique “Yolŋu surf rock” sound — a blend of ancient Australian indigenous melodies with surf, indie and funk influences — to Westport on September 23 (7:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
Avid state park-goer Chris Swan offers this update on work at Sherwood Island:
“Late Thursday afternoon, the contractor finished rough grading a large area on the north side of the newly paved West Beach parking lot.
“I’m guessing they’ll hydro-seed. That will hold this soil from eroding while grass germinates, returning this to an overflow parking lot like what was there pre-project.
“The contractor also painted some lines, and a few remaining crosswalks. Likely some odds and ends remain, but it looks like the paving project is finally approaching the finish line.
“We’ll see how long it takes to tear down and then replace the pavilion roof. I’m not holding my breath on that one.”
Sherwood Island State Park (Photo/Chris Swan)
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Our new header — visible on laptop and desktop versions of “06880” — is a great shot of a Saugatuck Rowing Club crew. Thanks to photographer Bruce McFadden.
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Staples High School girls soccer.
