When Westport Country Playhouse raises its curtain each December on “A Sherlock Carol,” homecoming fills the air.
The family-friendly holiday mash-up, blending Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle, was born in the uncertain days of the pandemic. The Playhouse performed an online reading.
The play has gone on to successful runs in New York, and sold-out houses in London. This season alone, “A Sherlock Carol” will be performed at nearly 30 theaters worldwide. Productions stretch from Boston, Virginia and Philadelphia to Dallas, Ottawa, the UK and Australia.
James Taylor Odom as Sherlock Holmes.
Yet Westport remains the show’s creative home.
Now in its third holiday season at the Playhouse, the production is once again guided by its writer and original director, Mark Shanahan, in his role as Westport’s artistic director.
He is joined by members of the original New York company. James Taylor Odom steps into the title role of Sherlock Holmes.
“It is so gratifying to do it again at Westport with this company of artists, many of whom have been with it from the start,” says Shanahan.
“A Sherlock Carol” imagines a grown-up Tiny Tim seeking help from the world’s greatest detective, unfolding as a Christmas Eve mystery set in the years after “A Christmas Carol.”
Shanahan describes a feeling of “inviting friends from different social circles to the same dinner party, and hoping like heck they’d get along.”
From left: Alexandra Kopko, Joe Delafield, James Taylor Odom, Byron St. Cyr, Anissa Felix, Dan Domingues. (Photos/Carol Rosegg)
When the play reached the stage in 2021, its themes of resurrection, renewal and second chances resonated deeply with audiences emerging from a period of uncertainty.
Off-Broadway, “A Sherlock Carol” quickly found its footing. It was a New York Times Critic’s Pick, and was nominated for Best New Play by the Off Broadway Alliance.
Its creative team and cast of Broadway veterans included several Tony nominees and winners. Many helped shape the Westport production. When London followed, British critics echoed their New York counterparts’ enthusiasm.
Despite its global reach, the show continues to feel rooted in Westport. Each holiday season many of the original cast and designers return to the Playhouse. The production feels like a reunion.
Writer/director Mark Shanahan chats with Westport Country Playhouse theater-goers, after opening night. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Joe Delafield (Dr. Watson and Mrs. Dilber), says that while the company loved performing the play in New York, “it seems like a perfect fit at Westport. We all love coming back together and refining it each year.”
For James Taylor Odom as Sherlock, joining the Westport production this year brings the journey full circle.
“When I first saw ‘A Sherlock Carol’ in New York, I knew somehow I’d be part of it one day,” he says.
“Now here I am, working with Mark and this phenomenal cast at the Westport Country Playhouse. Getting to play one of my favorite characters on this stage with so many people I love is a dream.”
From an online pandemic reading to stages across North America, the UK and Australia, “A Sherlock Carol” has become a new holiday tradition.
And each December, as Holmes and Scrooge once again find themselves side by side, they return home — to Westport Country Playhouse, where it all began.
(If it’s happening in Westport, you’ll read about it on “06880.” And if you read about it on our hyper-local blog, we hope you’ll click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Basso — the tapas-and-more restaurant that moved to Westport from Norwalk in the middle of the pandemic — is closing.
An email sent yesterday from the Jesup Road spot that replaced Matsu Sushi says: “After nearly 19 wonderful years of serving our community, it is with mixed emotions that we announce the closing of Basso on Thursday, December 18.
“This decision was not made lightly; we have truly cherished every moment shared with you, our loyal guests and friends.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, kindness, and the many memories we’ve created together. It has been an honor to be part of your lives—celebrating milestones, hosting your special occasions, and sharing countless meals and conversations.
“As we prepare to close this chapter, we warmly invite you to visit us one last time to reminisce and enjoy your favorite dishes. Thank you for being such an essential part of our story. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
I’ve long held a special place in my heart for Basso. The food has been delicious and creative; the hospitality is warm and genuine; the vibe has been great for the town.
Thank you, Renato, Ela, and all who made Basso a favorite destination.
Along with tapas, Basso featured pizzas, from its great wood-fired oven (rear).
================================================
One (restaurant) door closes, and another opens: Westport will soon have another fast-casual, create-your-own-bowl-or-salad dining spot.
Naya arrives Wednesday (December 17), in the Gold’s half of Compo Shopping Center.
The offerings are similar to Sweetgreen, Just Salad, and the very similarly named Cava (click here for the menu). Naya, though, positions itself as “Middle Eastern.”
They’ve got more than a dozen locations in New York City and Long Island. This will be Naya’s second restaurant in Connecticut, after Darien — and its northernmost and easternmost site.
Sticking with today’s food theme, there’s news from Pop-Up Bagels.
Like Basso, they popped up in Westport during the pandemic. In just a few years, Adam Goldberg turned his COVID hobby into a full-blown, award-winning business.
Outlets sprouted in Fairfield, Greenwich and Newtown. Then came New York — a bold (and winning) move — followed by Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida and California.
The latest Pop-up Bagels is in Portland, Maine. Chip Stephens — a 1973 Staples High School graduate and former Planning & Zoning commissioner, now chief enforcement officer for two Maine towns — spotted this on yesterday’s news:
They’re not stopping now. The next Pop-Up Bagels is planned for Wailea-Makena, Hawaii.
Which means they may need to rethink their motto: “Not famous, but known.”
From coast to coast — and beyond — everyone is learning about (and loving) Pop-Up Bagels.
=================================================
Also on the move — though this one is up, not out: a house on Danbury Avenue, near Soundview Drive.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
Like many in the oft-flooded neighborhood, it is being raised to become FEMA-compliant.
Which is a lot better than being razed, to become bigger, taller and broader.
=================================================
The first snowfall of the season was perfect: overnight, not overpowering, light and lovely.
Westport celebrated National Wreaths Across America Day yesterday.
VFW Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado, Post 399 Auxiliary vice commander Patty Kondub, Joan Polayes, and Scout Troops 39 and 139 honored veterans with a tribute at Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Cemetery.
Post 399 members and volunteers lay remembrance wreaths on over 400 graves. Each wreath symbolized the community’s gratitude, respect and commitment to never forget those who served.
Scouts participating in National Wreaths Across America day (from left): Blake Schuler Ashley Charise, Preston DeRosa, Austin Charise, Will Bernard, Will Manes, Sam Pollack and Alec Mraz. Not pictured: Jacob Luna and Ian Curran.
“A Sherlock Carol” — the family-friendly holiday show written and directed by Mark Shanahan, Westport Country Playhouse artistic director, opened last night for its third annual run there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
The cast of “A Sherlock Carol” takes their bows …
… and writer/director Mark Shanahan is thanked by audience members, after the show. (Photos/Dave Matlow)
=================================================
Hanukkah begins tonight, at sundown.
Steve Stein welcomed some early visitors yesterday:
More times than not, I’ve had good interactions with Optimum’s customer service.
Yesterday was one of those “not” times.
The (very) short version: I called the “retention” department to ask for a lower rate. I’ve been a customer since 1993 — I was one of the first dozen or so in Westport to sign up for a cable modem — and this is a ritual I now go through every few months.
The first question — after giving the same information twice, to a bot and a human — was “if we get disconnected, what’s the best callback number?”
(I’ve always found it odd that a company that provides phone service worries about disconnected calls, but whatever.)
I provided my cell number. She read it back to me. On we went.
She spent 15 minutes (supposedly) researching the best retention option. I’m sure she was juggling 3 or 4 other calls at the same time.
Then we got disconnected.
I expected a call back.
It never came.
I finally called again. This time, the customer service representative may have asked again for a callback number. I could not tell though, because whatever language he was speaking, it was not English.
Finally — a full 1 hour and 12 minutes after I began — I got a (middling) retention offer. I’m saving about $30 a month, and will have to go through the same dance again next year.
Was it worth it? I bill my writing clients $200 an hour, so 12 months to save $360 is a bit of a savings.
Weighing in the agita factor, though … probably not.
PS: If anyone at Cablevision is reading this and wants to contact me — well, someone there has my number.
================================================
Years ago, the group below would spend weekday mornings teaching, writing lesson plans, meeting with students, and dealing with administrators and parents.
These days, they do none of that.
And every so often, these ROMEOs — Retired Old Men Eating Out, all of whom spend decades in the Westport schools — get together for breakfast at the Monroe Diner.
How many can you name? Answers below the photo.
From left: Jim Wheeler, Al Jolley, Jim Honeycutt, Bruce McFadden, Toby Watson, Steve Rexford, Bob Selverstone, Werner Liepolt, Ed Bludnicki, Pete Van Hagen, Stan Rhodes.
Yesterday’ Roundup story on the Eartha Kitt/”Santa Baby” composer connection left out one key detail: That it happened at WEST, the Post Road East store owned by the singer’s daughter, Kitt Shapiro.
Here it is again. Hopefully it makes more sense this time:
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
============================================
Nancy Vener was up early yesterday. She photographed the fiery sunrise over Burritt Cove, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:
And finally … to all the customer service agents at Optimum (story above):
(Your favorite restaurant may be closing. Your internet service provider may drop your call. But “06880” will always be here for you — so long as you click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Westport Country Playhouse is getting in the holiday spirit.
And not just just with it’s production of “A Sherlock Carol.”
The family-friendly show is certainly an attraction.
But there’s more. Three important groups — the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, Norwalk Toys for Tots, and Westport Homes with Hope food pantry– are recipients of donations that can be dropped off during “A Sherlock Carol”‘s December 13-21 run.
There will be collection boxes in the Playhouse lobby whenever the box office is open (Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.), and during performances.
“The bond we share with The Hole in the Wall Camp remains especially close to our hearts,” says Playhouse artistic director Mark Shananan.
“It would make Camp founder Paul Newman and our own former artistic director Joanne Woodward very proud to see the relationship between our organizations still going strong.“
In fact, Shanahan’s involvement with the camp helped inspire “A Sherlock Carol.”
It’s the story of a grown-up Tiny Tim turning his personal experiences into a lifelong commitment to helping others — “just like so many people at Camp do,” Shanahan says.
Meanwhile, Norwalk Toys for Tots seeks new, unwrapped toys and books for children in need — including books in Spanish and Haitian Creole — for ages newborn to 18. Donations benefit local agencies and families in Norwalk, Fairfield and Westport. Click here for more information.
Westport’s Homes with Hope — dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Fairfield County — needs items for its food pantry: pancake mix, cooking oil, condiments, laundry detergent (small containers), feminine care products, canned fruit, cold cereal, salt and pepper, jelly, cleaning wipes, and gift certificates to Walmart and Stop & Shop. Click here for more information.
To learn more about “A Sherlock Carol” — including ticket purchases — click here.
All 2nd through 8th grade boys and girls are invited to try out for the Westport Swim Club.
It’s a great program — big on fun, friends and fundamentals — that helps get youngsters ready for the Staples High School program, either next year or a few years down the line. The winter session starts January 7.
Tryouts are December 15 (5:15 to 6:30 p.m.), January 5 (5:30 to 6:30 p.m.), January 10 (4 to 5 p.m.) and January 11 (9:45 to 10:30 a.m.). Click here to sign up.
Sure, it’s cold. Crowds have thinned considerably at Sherwood Island State Park.
But there’s still plenty to do. And plenty of room to do it in.
The Winter Solstice is 10:03 a.m. on December 21. Starting at 10, Friends of Sherwood Island will meet at the main pavilion for winter seed sowing in milk jugs.
After collecting seeds of native flowers in the dunes, members will help attendees cut a milk jug, drill holes in the bottom, fill it with special potting soil, and add seeds and water.
Then bring it home to leave outside until spring. (Jugs brought indoors will not germinate. Seeds need the winter cold.)
There’s hot chocolate, snacks and a “special visitor.” It’s free (but no pets). Bring empty, washed milk jugs (maximum 3 per family).
Then, on January 1, Friends of Sherwood Island invite everyone to start the new year with a breezy walk along the beach. Children and dogs on short leashes are welcome. Meet in front of the Nature Center at 11 a.m.; follow signs to the East Beach area.
And finally … in honor of Westport Swim Club’s next season (story above):
(We’re not exactly drowning, here at “06880” central. But we do rely on reader’s support, to help us publish our hyper-local blog. Please click here to contribute. Every little bit helps. Thank you!)
Final preparations are underway for this Saturday’s Westport Downtown Association/”06880″ Holiday Stroll.
Among the attractions: Savvy + Grace is sponsoring an Airstream photo booth, and a “Letters to Santa” station. All supplies for letters will be provided. And (if there’s a return address) Santa will personally answer all letters.
The Holiday Stroll (Saturday, December 6, 4 to 7 p.m.) also includes caroling with the Staples Orphenians, selfies with Santa and Westport’s favorite piglet, face painting, a DJ, giveaways from restaurants and retailers, and 6 dozen store specials.
Here are the latest signups (new since Monday):
Brooks Brothers: 30% off nearly everything
Earthplace: 10% off Winter Solstice Campfire on December 21 (register here on Saturday)
La Source: Enter to win a $500 gift card, with every purchase of $100 or more
Il Pastaficio: Focaccia di recco, Italian hot chocolate, salame di cioccolata; gift card for 10% off purchases of fresh pasta boxes and sauces
Scout & Molly’s: Free gift with $200 purchase
American Colors by Henry Lehr: 20% off Hampton Wash and American Colors clothing
Everything But Water: Fit sessions; $25 off $150+ with Beach Club signup
Johnny Was: 40% off sale; gift with purchase; free gift wrapping.
This year, they are bringing two exciting experiences: an Airstream Photo Booth and a Letters to Santa station with all supplies provided.
“A Sherlock Carol” — the family-friendly production based on both Sherlock Holmes and “A Christmas Carol” — returns to the Westport Country Playhouse for a third great year.
There are 8 performances, from December 13 through 21.
The New York Times “Critics’ Pick” is written and directed by Mark Shanahan, Playhouse artistic director. The Westport production is one of 30 “Sherlock Carol”s happening around the world, including Australia, Canada, England and the US.
Meanwhile, over 35 vendors will pack the Senior Center December 12 (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.), for a holiday craft and gift sale.
In addition to a wide array of special items, including wood-turned pieces, pottery, fused-glass art, glass ornaments, beaded gemstone jewelry, clocks, silver jewelry, handcrafted necklaces, earrings, potholders, art and painted glass, origami, painted shells, birdhouse ornaments, holiday centerpieces, wreaths, decoupage shells, watercolor gifts, children’s books, mystery novels, painted baby shoes, quilted art, home décor, baby blankets, knits, scarves, Pearl’s famous salad dressing, holiday cards, tableware, specialty ceramic painted tiles (and much more!), there’s free gift wrapping — and cookies baked by the National Charity League.
The Longshore golf course closes for the winter this Sunday (December 7).
Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri says, “We are pleased to have been able to extend the 2025 season this far into December. On behalf of head pro Jon Janik, golf course superintendent Sean Charles and the entire staff, we wish all our loyal golfers a happy and healthy new year. We look forward to seeing you in the spring.”
But golfers can still swing. Two Westport businesses — The Clubhouse and Sticks — offer simulators for practice.
Two great choral groups — the Dartmouth Brovertones and Staples Orphenians — bring holiday music and more to Saugatuck Congregational Church this Sunday (December 7, 7 p.m.).
The free program includes classic pop songs, along with Christmas favorites.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie led the ceremony yesterday, accompanied by the Staples Orphenians, town poet laureate Donna Disch, and a small group of children who counted down the numbers.
The tree is in front of Town Hall, on Myrtle Avenue.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie leads the countdown …
… and poses with the Orphenians …
… ta da! (All photos/Dan Woog)
=================================================
The 85th annual Candlelight Concert is the Staples Music Department’s gift to the town. This year’s shows are Friday, December 12 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 13 (3 and 8 p.m.).
The always-hot tickets went on sale this morning at 9 a.m (www.StaplesMusic.org). They’re free — but donations to the Staples music program are greatly appreciated.
There are other ways to support our young musicians too. The poinsettias that decorate the stage can be ordered here, then picked up at the end of the final show.
Also available, at all performances: “Candlelight Cookies” from Alina’s. They’re just $6 — and each includes a coupon for a free cupcake. Click here to order.
Finally: Staples’ Tri-M Music Honor Society again sponsors “CanDelight” — a canned food donation drive benefiting the Homes for Hope food pantry. Collection bins will be in the lobby before every concert.
Poinsettias set the stage for Candlelight. (Photo/Dan Woog)
=================================================
Nearly every seat was filled last night, for the Westport Country Playhouse’s final Script in Hand reading of 2025.
“What The Constitution Means to Me” by Heidi Schreck was one of the most timely in the long-running and popular series.
The star, Nina Hellman, grew up in Westport and was a member of Staples Players. She now lives in Brooklyn with her husband Jeremy Shamos, who was also in the show.
Every audience member received a copy of the US Constitution. (Hat tips: Susan Garment and Dave Matlow)
The “Constitution” crew, Standing (from left) Liz Beatty (stage manager), Jocelyn Shek, Nina Hellman, Mark Shanahan (Playhouse artistic director), Amanda Charlton (director). Seated: Jeremy Shamos. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
New Yacht City’s tribute to music of the 1970s and ’80s — Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald and more — rocks the VFW this Saturday.
Doors open at 6 p.m. The band comes on at 8. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Click here to purchase.
=============================================
The Westport Farmers’ Market winter location — Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center — is warm and cozy.
It’s the perfect place for “Operation Warm Hug.” This Thursday and Saturday (December 4 and 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), they’re collecting new and gently used coats, hats, mittens and gloves, for nOURish clients in Bridgeport.
All donations are “warmly” welcomed.
================================================
Meanwhile, not far from the VFW, Railroad Place was closed temporarily yesterday morning.
A truck on the 1-way section of Franklin Street took down a utility pole, which landed on a car. There were no injuries.
Acoustic band On the Trail brings their bluegrass/contemporary pop/traditional blend of music to Voices Cafe this Saturday (December 6, 8 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
Tickets for the “toe-tapping” show are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
A Holiday Pop-Up Shop is set for December 10 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; The Residence at Westport, 1141 Post Road East).
It features pottery, jewelry and other gifts, all from local artisans.
The Residence at Westport.
=================================================
Guitarist Paul Bollenback and pianist Dave Kikoski highlight this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, December 4; 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; VFW Post 399).
They’re joined by bassist Essiet Essiet, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonisthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1DCWLJ4m8U Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Former Staples High School basketball player Geoffrey Lavaty died November 3, at his Wilton home. He was 86.
The Bronx native grew up in Westport, and graduated with the Class of 1957.
After Rollins College he served for 2 years in the Army, then moved to New York. He sold radio time, then partnered with his father. Their firm — Frank and Jeff Lavaty Associates — represented commercial artists and illustrators, many of them from this area.
Jeff and Ebba Von Koch were married in 1968. They lived in New York and Wilton.
Jeff was an oil painter, displaying his work in local galleries and public buildings. He was also a skilled pool player, an avid freshwater fisherman, a fan of the New York Giants, Knicks, Fats Domino, Pavarotti and Cabernet Sauvignon.
He is survived by his wife; sisters Judy Strauss (Jeffrey) and Jane Cooke (Donald), and cousins, nieces and nephews. Services will be private.
Despite high egg prices, this was a good one for many Westporters. As we buy presents for loved ones, friends, and people whose good graces we need to keep, we should also think about helping others.
Give what you can.
(Of course, helping them can also ease our own tax burdens next spring. This is still a great country!)
But who to give to?
Far be it for “06880” to say. So here is a list of some worthy local organizations. Each one has a clickable link 🙂
I know I’ve missed some. Rather than bite my head off (too un-Christmas-y), please mention them in the “Comments” section. I’ll add them to this list.
And please: Keep your suggestions local (southern Fairfield County). There are way too many very worthy national and international groups to include. Thank you!
06880: This blog — now a non-profit — sponsors community-wide events. Projects include the Holiday and Summer Strolls, the Lyman Ukraine sister city project, collaborations with the League of Women Voters, Westport Library and more. “06880” publishes this daily blog, to help create community.
Disabilities
Abilis: Provides vital services and supports for individuals of all ages with special needs and disabilities Catch a Lift: Westport supports veterans through fitness programs Circle of Friends: Teens work with children with disabilities
CLASP: Group homes and opportunities Club203: Provides fun, engaging activities for adults with disabilities MyTEAM Triumph: Road race support for children, adults and veterans New Canaan Mounted Troop: Youth development and therapeutic equestrian center serving children and adults with disabilities, and giving horses a second chance STAR Lighting the Way: Support for all ages Sweet P Bakery: Provides jobs for adults with learning disabilities
Education and youth
A Better Chance of Westport: Education and support for outstanding minority boys Achievement First: Schools provide Bridgeport families of color with a high- quality education at no cost Adam J. Lewis Academy: High-quality experience for Bridgeport youngsters Big Brothers Big Sisters: Connecticut’s largest volunteer mentoring network Builders Beyond Borders (B3): Engaging teenagers in work projects that improve local and global communities Carver Foundation: K-12 pre- and after-school programs in Norwalk Center for Children’s Advocacy: Legal aid for education, healthcare, housing and the juvenile justice system Child & Family Guidance Center: Counseling and support for youth and families Kids in Crisis: 24-hour support, including emergency housing and crisis counseling Neighborhood Studios: Arts education for Bridgeport youngsters Piston Foundation: Helping young people acquire the education and hands-on training to build a career in the collector car industry, through trade school scholarships, apprenticeships and advocacy Ralphola Taylor Community Center: Bridgeport organization offers leadership development, educational workshops, field trips; holiday store rewards youngsters for good behavior — they “buy” gifts (for points) for their families Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities: Helping fulfill potential; support for parents too Staples Tuition Grants: Need-based scholarships for Staples High School students and alumni The Susan Fund: Scholarships for young people affected by cancer Wakeman Boys & Girls Club: Southport organization serving area youth in a variety of academic, athletic and social ways Walter Luckett Foundation: Mentorship, test preparation, STEAM, job prep for Bridgeport youth; partner with Westport Library
PROUD Academy: New school for LGBTQ+ students and allies, proving a safe, affirming learning community Triangle Community Center: Providing programs and resources for the LGBTQ+ community Westport Pride: Our town’s own LGBTQ+ organization — sponsors of the June festival, and much more
Literacy
Mercy Learning Center: Life skills training for low-income women Read to Grow: Promoting children’s literacy from birth, supporting parents as babies’ first teachers Westport Book Sales: Providing employment for people with disabilities — and offering books, while providing funds for the Westport Library Westport Library: They do it all!
Ukraine Aid International: Founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, UAI ensures that donations go directly to Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)
Women and girls
AWARE: “Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education” Dress for Success Mid-Fairfield County: Empowering women by providing professional clothes and other support LiveGirl: Leadership development and mentoring for females, grades 5 through college Malta House: Shelter and programs for young pregnant women and their babies
On Thursday, Westporters will sit down to Thanksgiving feasts.
There will be turkey, football and naps. There should also be thanks. That’s the whole idea.
This week, I feel very thankful.
I am thankful that — decades ago — my parents moved to Westport. Growing up in this community has profoundly shaped my life. The teachers I had; the friends I made; the values I absorbed — all helped make me the person I am today.
I am thankful that some of those values — like giving back to those less fortunate — remain strong today. In just the past month alone, organizations like the Rotary Clubs roared into the breach when the Homes with Hope food pantry was overwhelmed. The Westport Firefighters Charitable Fund donated 1,000 turkeys to Bridgeporters. A&S Fine Foods prepared Thanksgiving meals for dozens more, and residents added pies to the meals.
Homes with Hope’s food pantry was full.
Just this past weekend, Staples’ Service League of Boys raised thousands of dollars for a Staples Tuition Grants scholarship honoring Perrin Delorey, an elementary school friend killed in an automobile accident 8 years ago.
Speaking of Staples: I am thankful that hundreds of students have the immense talent, energy, passion and pride — and countless adults inspiring and guiding them — to produce Players’ astonishing production of “Les Misérables.” The gift they gave 10 sold-out audiences is beyond measure.
I am thankful too that members of the Staples boys soccer program gave the entire town a lesson in maturity, commitment and hard work. Their state championship run this month was exciting, inspirational — and fun.
I am thankful that our municipal election this month drew dozens of smart, qualified and eager candidates. Our choices were difficult; there were many excellent men and women to choose from. I am thankful that turnout was the highest in years — and hopeful that it continues to grow.
I am extremely thankful for the Westport Library. Bill Harmer and his kick-ass crew have made an outstanding building into an even more outstanding town gem. From wide-ranging programming to a first-class media facility — augmented by staff members who know everything — it awes everyone who sees it for the first time. (Senator Richard Blumenthal, a frequent visitor, calls it simply “the best.”) I hope we never take our tremendous library for granted.
All day — and into the night — the Westport Library is a community gathering spot. (Photo/Michael Chait)
I am thankful that, just a couple of years after comingthisclose to closing, the Westport Country Playhouse has not only survived, but flourishes. They carry on our town’s rich arts heritage — and are joined by relative newcomers like the Westport Arts Collective and MoCA\CT. Not to mention other entertainment options like the Levitt Pavilion (a mere 5 decades old).
I am thankful for so many organizations that expand my mind and horizons, like StartUp Westport, and for groups like the VFW, which open their doors to all.
I am thankful for new businesses that have placed a big bet on Westport, like the Delamar hotel and The Clubhouse; for restaurants that are creating a statewide buzz, and for all the recent residents, who bring a fresh sense of vitality (along with young kids).They’ve chosen our town for all the right reasons — its schools, culture, beaches, amenities, beauty. ideals, and spirit of involvement — and they are making it their own. Just as my parents did, all those decades ago.
A move to make Westport more walkable and bikeable is being driven by new, young residents.
I am truly thankful for our first responders. Westport’s Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services are the best of the best. If you’ve needed them: you know. If you haven’t: someday: you will. And then you’ll be even more thankful.
I am thankful, of course, for the opportunity to do my part for this great community, through “06880.” But this blog is nothing without you: our readers. I am truly thankful that you follow us, let me know about items of interest (and passing stories of interest along to others), and comment (especially civilly).
That’s me. Those are my thanks.
What about yours?
Big or small; concrete or abstract; here in town or elsewhere — we want to hear from you. Click “Comments” below.
Thank you!
This guy is thankful he’s roaming the streets of Westport, not stuck in a supermarket case. (Photo/William Webster)
As the weather cools down, Wakeman Town Farm heats up.
On the calendar:
“Wreath-making Class” (December 10, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.). Create a custom wreath using local berries and natural materials. Beginners to seasoned crafters welcome.
“Warm Bites for Cold Nights”(Grades 2-6; 2 different 5-week sessions, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m., beginning in January): Hearty, hands-on dishes, with kids-safe techniques.
“Winter Cooking for the Minis” (Grades K-2; 6 Monday sessions, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m., beginning in December):
“Frosty Bites and Holiday Treats Cooking Class for Kids” (Ages 6-12; December 12, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.).
“Warm & Cozy Winter Desserts”baking class (adults; December 18, 6:30 to 9 p.m.). For beginning to intermediate bakers; BYOB.
And on January 24, the Sweet Remains take the stage.
Greg Naughton’s folk-rock trio — with their acoustic sound, 3-part harmonies and 65 million Spotify streams — performs January 24 (8 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westport’s Jewish Business Network hosts Melissa Bernstein — the co-founder of legendary toy company Melissa & Doug, and the wellness brand Lifelines — for a celebration of her new book, “The Heart of Entrepreneurship.”
Stephanie Phillips was the guest speaker at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club.
The district governor applauded members for their leadership in categories including foundation giving and membership growth, and their energy supporting community initiatives.
That good work was clear, as Rotary Club members supported the Westport Fire Department’s winter clothing drive.
Stephanie Phillips, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
=================================================
Sure, it’s almost Thanksgiving. But fall foliage continues to hang on in Westport … and to awe us.
We give thanks for this spectacular scene on Highland Road — and to JD Dworkow, for capturing it as today’s “Westport … Naturally feature photo.
And finally … on this date in 1877, Thomas Edison announced his invention of the phonograph: a machine that could record and play sound.
On this same date in 1959, disc jockey Alan Freed — the man who popularized the term “rock and roll” — was fired by New York’s WABC radio. He was alleged to have participated in a payola scandal.
(“06880” is your hyper-local source of news, events, photos and much more — 24/7/365. These Roundup songs are icing on the cake. If you enjoy any of it, please click here to support us. Thank you!)
Earlier this year, an abandoned tiger-striped cat set up residence in a Westport resident’s garage.
Town animal control officer Peter Reid reached out to long-time Westport Animal Shelter Advocates volunteer Sandy Young to assist with trapping.
WASA is the volunteer group for Westport Animal Control. The cat was trapped, and set up in Young’s home as a foster.
While recuperating, it gave birth to 5 kittens. She’s been a loving and protective mother, but now it is time for the 2-month-old young ones to find homes.
It is hard to get good images of kittens for social media. But Staples High School Photography Club student Andrea Jaramillo and advisor Stacey Phelan organized a photo shoot.
Reid and WASA president Julie Loparo got the okay to use the Westport Police Department classroom. Club members Hazel Rossi, Elizabeth Stauder and Beatrice Schwabe joined Jaramillo and Phelan, to calm the babies and capture their best sides.
Next month’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand show is very timely.
“What the Constitution Means to Me” takes center stage December 1 (7 p.m.).
At age 15, playwright Heidi Schreck earned her college tuition by competing in Constitutional debate competitions across the country. In this play that is “hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human,” she revisits her teenage self to explore how the document has shaped her family, her future — and our nation.
Ned Martin’s “Common Core” has been reduced from $13,100 to $5,000.
=================================================
Speaking of the holidays: The biggest toy drive in town returns next month.
The Westport Police Department, Police Athletic League and Westport Police Benevolent Association will once again collect new, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash donations — in the ASF Sports parking lot.
The dates are Saturdays and Sundays, December 6-7 and 13-14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
From December 1 on, there will be collection boxes at ASF, Westport Police headquarters on Jesup Road, Awesome Toys and Gifts, and the Toy Post.
Mark the dates. And start shopping!
Westport Police, PAL — and Yogi Bear — collected toys for underprivileged youngsters last year, at ASF. (Photo/Cat Malkin)
The Saugatuck Rowing Club celebrated the 25th anniversary of its boathouse yesterday.
Owner Howard Winklevoss; his sons Cameron and Tyler, who began their Harvard and Olympic careers there, and founder James Mangan were among the many current and former rowers and coaches who joined in the festivities.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker offered her congratulations too, for SRC’s success in putting Westport on the “national and international” rowing map.
From left: Howard Winklevoss, Tyler Winklevoss, James Mangan, Cameron Winklevoss. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Also last night: Over 400 people packed the Westport Library to celebrate 60 years of the Grateful Dead. The Spadtastics — a Darien tribute band who themselves have been playing together for 40 years — starred in the Trefz Forum.
The modified Supper & Soul concert-only show was sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and the Library. Three restaurants offered Dead- inspired drinks, with Basso creating the “Grapefruit Dead” gin-based concoction.
The Spadtastics, on stage. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)
The Westport Project — the new fully sustainable home going up at 16 Westport Avenue — has just added a 9th episode to its video documentary series.
The shows — starring builder Chris O’Dell of the O’Dell Group design/build firm, and designer/actor Eva Amurri — have racked up hundreds of thousands of views.
The latest episode — featuring the appliances planned for the new home — should be of interest to all Aitoro fans. Who doesn’t love the Norwalk appliance store, known for its huge selections, customer service, and community service?
Speaking of the environment: Aspetuck Land Trust’s “Lunch & Learn” webinars are always intriguing. And educational.
The next one is “Mini-Forest Revolution: Rewilding our Communities for Climate Resilience” (November 20, 12 noon).
Mini-forests support hundreds of species, are many degrees cooler than its surroundings, soak up stormwater, take up spaces no bigger than a tennis court, and become maintenance free within a few years.
A new artist has been added to George Barrett and Brian Keane‘s show at the Westport Library next Sunday (November 16, 2 p.m.).
Sarah Gross is a Nashville-based singer/songwriter. She has performed with Zach Bryan, and won Jimmy Fallon’s “Battle of the Instant Songwriters.”
Barrett — the 1973 Staples High School graduate (and former Orphenian) who grew up here in a home filled with classical, folk, rock, blues and jazz; whose influences include Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Beatles, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, Sting and Norah Jones, and whose new album, “Rearrange Things,” is released this month — will be joined by Grammy-winning musician/composer/producer (and Staples ’71 grad) Brian Keane, plus other guests.
Before the show, Barrett and Keane will chat about their unique life journeys and unexpected reunion. The conversation will be hosted by “06880”‘s Dan Woog, who has known both for over 50 years.
Congratulations to Lina Elwood. The Westport resident and Hopkins School sophomore is a winner in the Music Teachers National Association Piano Competition. She’ll move on to compete in the next round: the Eastern Division. Those winners move on to the national finals.
Lina has won top prizes at numerous state, regional and international competitions. She has also played with the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra and Norwalk Symphony Orchestra.
Long-time Westport resident Edith Zwick Evans (formerly Edith Shufro) died on March 22 in Hamden. She was 99.
Edie was born into a Jewish family in Vienna in 1925. Her family fractured when the Nazis annexed Austria in 1938. Her mother and a sister died in Treblinka.
A year after the arrival of the Nazis, Edie escaped Austria on a Kindertransport train to the Netherlands. She was taken to England and lived there until 1943, when she sailed to the US in the midst of the war.
Edie earned a bachelor’s degree at Antioch College, and a master’s in social work at Columbia University. A friend from Antioch introduced her to Arnold Shufro, a textile salesman in New York City.
They married and moved from Manhattan to Westport after their first 2 children were born. They raised three children on Crestwood Road.
Edie regularly attended French club luncheons with Westport friends and studied sculpture at the Silvermine Arts Center in New Canaan with Stanley Bleifeld, of the National Academy of Design. I
n the mid-1970s Edie returned to part-time social worker at High Meadows School in Hamden.
Eventually she and Arnold divorced, and Edie married Robert Evans. The couple became innkeepers at the Sedgwick Inn and restaurant in Berlin, New York.
After Bob died, Edie lived in Williamstown, Massachusetts, then spent her final decade at the Whitney Center in Hamden.
Edie is survived by her daughters Cathy and Carol Shufro. Her son Mark died of a chronic illness in 2022. Her grandchild Sarah Shufro Mandelkern died as a child. Edie’s survivors include daughter-in-law Lisa Kerpen Shufro, 6 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
And finally … today is the birthday of Mary Travers, of Peter, Paul and Mary fame. The beautiful woman with the beautiful voice — who was born in 1936, and died in 2009 at 72, from leukemia — had many Westport connections.
After nearly a century, the Westport Country Playhouse is finally presenting “The Importance of Being Earnest.” “06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung offers her insights on the classic play:
It’s widely hailed as Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece, officially subtitled “a trivial comedy for serious people,” written while he was on trial for homosexuality. Weeks into its run he was sent to prison for 2 years of hard labor.
Three years after his sentence ended, he died penniless in a Paris hotel, his last words being, “This wallpaper and I are fighting a duel to the death. Either it goes or I do.” He was 46 years old.
Which may be the least funny way to introduce the comedy “The Importance of Being Earnest” at the Westport Country Playhouse, especially because the season is designed to inspire and uplift.
Kristen Hahn, Mark Silence, and Katy Tang.
The show centers around 2 wealthy bachelors who fall quickly and madly in love with 2 young — very young — women who both know in the deepest recesses of their callow hearts they could never consider marrying a man who isn’t named Earnest.
Victorian hilarity ensues.
Because the play is written for an audience from the turn of the century (the last century), newer audience-goers may find it a bit lengthy.
However, it’s an important play to see. And the Playhouse production, directed by Melissa Rain Anderson, is as taut as a 125-year-old comedy can be, with sprightly direction and good pacing.
Visually it’s a fun, frothy swirl of costumes (Annie Le), and sets “Like an illustrated pop book come to life,” artistic director Mark Shanahan aptly states of James Fenton’s design of the interior of a Victorian mansion.
An intricate set, at the Westport Country Playhouse.
Shanahan says, “Melissa Rain Anderson has worked at theaters all around the country. When I asked her if she would be interested, she said ‘It’s on my bucket list.’”
It was also on Westport’s bucket list as, crazily, this is the first time the show has played on WCP’s stage in its 95-year history.
Eagle-eyed onlookers may notice that the costumes are set in Edwardian times, allowing the costume designer a sleeker cut to the clothing. I take no umbrage in that, because I loved the dresses and I wouldn’t know the difference. If the inching to a more “modern” or “5 or 6 years later” time period offends you, then you know an enormous amount about history and theater and I hope that brings you a bit of solace.
When Le was designing her frocks and suits, she considered things other than their obvious theatricality. How will this dress look when twirling beneath rose petals? What habit of the wearer might inform the costume — something to twiddle? To touch?
Michael Raver and Anthony Michael Martinez. (All photos/Carol Rosegg)
Aside from the costumes, some of my favorite parts are when John Worthing carefully but courageously touches Gwendolyn’s curl. The witty barbs traded among Algernon and John in the first act, along with Lady Bracknell’s exquisite societal reasoning. And in Gwendolyn and Cicely’s delightful dialogue at the beginning of Act 2.
It’s these singular details which make the show fresh and contemporarily entertaining to modern theatergoers.
(Conversely, one of my less favorite things is Cicily’s voice. It’s a choice.)
There’s no denying the cast is having a blast onstage. As early as the first read, cast members were clapping and laughing along. Shanahan recalls, “it was a rare experience!”
As if to prove this, as I left WCP the cast was having lunch on the patio, laughing and chatting as though they were on the very un-Victorian Church Lane during happy hour.
(Robin Moyer Chung covers culture — just part of our hyper-local, 24/7/365 blog. If you enjoy what we do, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
