Tag Archives: Dodie Pettit

Roundup: Sandy Hook & Broadway, Doughboy, Chickens …

Posted on August 16, 2024 | 1 comment

Westport and Weston will be well represented next month, when Broadway stars perform in a benefit for Sandy Hook Promise.

“The Best of Broadway’ (September 22, 6 p.m., SHU Community Theater, Fairfield) is the brainchild of 2 residents.

It began with Dodie Pettit, who performed on Broadway in “Cats” and “Phantom of the Opera.”

Her husband — Aztec Two-Step co-founder Rex Fowler — had been asked to perform in a Sandy Hook Promise film called “A Father’s Promise.”

Sandy Hook Promise — formed in the aftermath of the horrendous school shooting — is a Newtown-based non-profit that educates and empowers youth and adults, to prevent violence in schools, homes and communities

The documentary is about Mark Barden, whose son Daniel was killed in the Sandy Hook shooting.

Dodie was so moved by the mission of Sandy Hook Promise that she volunteered to gather Broadway performers to raise money for gun
violence awareness.

Among the artists next month: 2-time Tony Award winner James Naughton, and Terry Eldh (Carlotta in “Phantom of the Opera”). Dodie and Rex will also perform, as Aztec Two-Step 2.0.

Longtime Levitt Pavilion favorite Frank Mastrone (“Phantom,” “Cats,” “Les Miserables”), and Paige Backus and Grace Hutchinson — recipients of the Connecticut Dance School Kevin Gray Scholarship, given in honor of Dodie Pettit’s late husband (a Broadway star in “Phantom of the Opera” and “The King and I” — will also appear.

For tickets, a full cast list and other information. click here.

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Dave Shea writes: “One of the benefits of a dog who needs walking at 5:30 every morning is being greeted by this brave soul. He puts it all into perspective.”

   (Photo/Dave Shea)

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It’s illegal to stick commercial flyers on utility poles.

If we called out every company that does this, we wouldn’t have room for any photos bad drivers — I mean, anything else.

But this one caught our eye.

There sure aren’t a lot of services like this one, in our little corner of the world.

(Photo/Steven Goldstein)

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A reader writes: “There has been a scam going on for a few months at Whole Foods.

“If you bring your own shopping bag, you’re supposed to get a 10 cent credit per bag.

“The receipt will indicate Bag Refund,’ but it no longer shows the credit. It’s happened to me 4 times, with different cashiers and different registers.

“The cashier insists it’s at the end showing up on total savings, but if you do the math, it’s not there.

“I showed the manager twice. He agreed and thinks something is wrong with the computer program. But I think Whole Foods is hoping no one will notice, and they are saving thousands of dollars, maybe more.”

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Garden and music lovers — and those who are both — take note.

Blau House & Gardens and the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra present “Music in the Garden” this Sunday (August 18).

There’s a pre-concert tour of the magnificent property off Bayberry Lane from 4:30 to 5 p.m. The woodwind quintet plays in the gorgeous gardens from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m.

Bring your own picnic, blankets and chairs. There’s a shuttle from Coleytown Elementary School. Tickets are $75.  Click here to order.

A small section of the Blau House & Gardens.

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The item above is a great lead-in to today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

There are plenty of spots to see rabbits in Westport.

Your first guess — or 100th — would probably not be Ned Dimes Marina.

But Laurie Sorensen saw this bunny bopping around there.

One more bit of proof — if any is needed — that Compo Beach is a very welcoming place.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … Dave Shea’s photo of the Doughboy statute at Veterans Green got us thinking about the sacrifices our soldiers made over 100 years ago, in World War I.

You know: The War to End All Wars.

(Broadway stars, Sandy Hook, the Doughboy, chickens, rabbits … just another day on “06880.” If you appreciate our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Westoberfest, Southern Tide, News 12 …

Posted on August 5, 2024 | 1 comment

On Friday, “06880” noted that early bird tickets are on sale for Westoberfest.

Here are more details on the 7th annual craft beer-and-fall festival (September 21, 2 to 5 p.m., downtown Westport), sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association.

Guests enjoy over 45 tastings from innovative craft breweries like Kent Falls, Nod Hill, Obscure Oscillation and Space Cat Brewing to name a few, plus activities like keg rolling and pumpkin chucking contests for adults.

Children’s activities include root beer floats, flower crown-making, pumpkin decorating and face painting.

There’s live music too, from One Bad Oyster.

For a complete list of breweries, kids’ activities, food and vendors, click here.

The price through August 31 is $45. Tickets go up to $50 on September 1, and are $55 at the event. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Westoberfest, in downtown Westport.

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Southern Tide — the men’s, women’s and children’s clothing store — has opened on Elm Street, around the corner from Brooks Corner.

There is still merchandise at their Playhouse Square location. But the large sign above the store there is gone.

Meanwhile, coming August 17 to Westport: Framebridge.

The custom frame shop will open at 123 Post Road East, next to WEST.

(Hat tips and photos/Sal Liccione)

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News 12 Connecticut has been nominated for a number of New York Emmy Awards.

Among them: “My Name is Wynston Browne” — a compelling story about the Staples High School rising senior who, despite non-speaking autism — has learned to communicate using a typing device

The nomination cites reporter Mark Sudol, and photographer/editors Frank Bruce Rosen and Mark Sogofsky. It is in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Category.

News 12 Connecticut’s “Burning Desires” story — about the murder of Westporter Joan Wertkin — was also nominated for an Emmy.

Also nominated: 1974 Staples High School graduate Susan Handman, as a performer/narrator for NYC Life.

The 67th annual Emmy gala takes place October 26, at the New York Marriott Marquis.

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Happy anniversary to Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit!

The couple — who now perform and tour as Aztec Two-Step 2.0, the new iteration of the much-revered folk-rock duo Fowler formed over 50 years ago — celebrated with a small party yesterday, in the same yard where they were married 6 years ago.

Rain chased the musicians inside. But — happily — the band (with some very talented friends) played on.

Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit blow out the candles. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Congratulations to the 2024 Longshore Women’s Golf Association club champions: Jennifer Cole, Cynthia Carpenter, Robin Babes, Jean Murdoch, Dorothy Torpie, Cynthia Sher, Chris LoRusso and Elizabeth Harleman.

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Three princesses came to Westport Saturday, in custom gowns and professionally styled wigs.

They were not real royalty. They were from Your Premium Princesses, a “bespoke character company of your dreams, where magic meets sophistication.” They’re hired for birthday parties, corporate events and grand openings

This event was a child’s birthday party, off Hillspoint Road.

Young partygoers did their part too, arriving in costumes.

What? No princes?!

(Hat tip and photo/Barbara Schwarz)

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June Walker Rogers — a Broadway singer, dancer and comedienne who appeared on television and wrote 13 plays and musicals, died last Monday at her Westport home, where she lived for decades. She was 97.

Born in Steubenville, Ohio, and raised in Queens, she started dancing at 5. She later developed a nightclub act, performing with Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Louis Prima, Don Rickles, Rodney Dangerfield and Louis Farrakhan (when he performed under the name “Calypso Louie”).

She left Columbia University early to make her Broadway debut. She performed with Bert Lahr, Dick Van Dyke, Tony Bennett and Orson Bean, and appeared on Steve Allen and Jackie Gleason’s TV shows. Ed Sullivan was so taken with her that he brought her to the White House, to perform for Presidents Truman and Eisenhower.

After starting a family, she turned to playwriting. She then returned to the stage, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

Rogers was a founding member of the Theater Artists Workshop of Westport.

She was married for 50 years to the late Tony-nominated writer/actor David Rogers, who died in 2013. She is survived by her daughters Dulcy Rogers Bader (Diedrich) and Amanda Rogers, and grandchildren Lucy, Sebastian, Dashiell and Ondine. Click here for a full obituary.

June Rogers

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The weather was on-and-off this weekend. Beachgoers cut short their visits, both Saturday and Sunday.

This guy looked right at home, though. He hopped, strutted, then stayed still just long enough to pose for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … on this day in 1962, Marilyn Monroe was found dead in her Los Angeles home, from a drug overdose. She was 36.

(“06880” is Westport’s hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Young Shoots Photo Contest, Best Of Broadway Benefit …

Posted on July 31, 2024 | 1 comment

Only 2 weeks remain for young photographers to take shots at the Westport Farmers’ Market — and enter the “Young Shoots” contest,

The 8th annual event runs this Thursday and next (July 31, August 7). Students ages 5 through 18 can demonstrate their love for local food — and their creative photo talents — to win cash prizes in 3 age categories, plus a chance to attend an art class at MoCA CT.

All photos must be taken at the Westport Farmers’ Market (Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot). It’s an amazing place, filled with food, plants, food trucks, entertainers, the farmers themselves, shoppers — everything a young photographer could hope to capture.

Local artists will judge. Age groups are 5-9, 10-14 and 15-18. An exhibit at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (August 21, 6 p.m.) will showcase the winners. Every entrant can pick up a framed print of their photo there.

The contest is sponsored by the Farmers’ Market, the Artists Collective of Westport, and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.

Click here for rules, registration and more information.

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This terse, 2-line news release was sent to local media yesterday:

“As of July 27, 2024, Alma Sarelli will no longer participate as Campaign Manager for Candidate Kami Evans who is running for State Senate for the 26th District. Alma wishes Kami nothing but the best in her campaign.”

Kami Evans

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Tony Award winner James Naughton, and Aztec Two-Step folk legend Rex Fowler — both local residents — headline an all-star “Best of Broadway” cast.

The performance — a benefit for Sandy Hook Promise, the gun violence education and empowerment non-profit — is set for September 22 (6 p.m., SHU Community Theater, Fairfield).

The evening of music and dance includes stars from the casts of “Phantom of the Opera,”” “Les Miserables,” “Chicago,” “City of Angels,” “Cats” and more. Naughton and Fowler will host and perform.

The cast also includes veteran Broadway stars Dodie Pettit and Terry Eldh of Westport; a special screening of the trailer “A Father’s Promise,” and an auction.

Mark Barden and Nicole Hockley — co-founders and CEOs of Sandy Hook Promise, and parents of 1st graders killed in the vicious school shooting in Newtown — will be at the benefit.

For tickets, a full cast list and more information, click here.

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Speaking of entertainment: Westport singer Melissa Newman joins Tony Lombardozzi, Phil Bowler and Bobby Leonard at this week’s Jazz at the Post.

Thursday’s event (August 1, shows at 7 and 8:30 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) kicks off another great season for the popular series.

Reservations are highly suggested: JazzatthePost@gmail.com

Melissa Newman

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This cormorant waited patiently on a Ned Dimes Marina buoy — perhaps for someone to take his “Westport … Naturally” photo?

If so, Matt Murray obliged.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Happy 81st birthday to Lobo!

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Aztec Two-Step …

Posted on February 11, 2024 | 2 comments

Rex Fowler — co-founder of Aztec Two-Step — says of the 53-year-old duo, “We’re a household name. But we’re in a select few households.”

After the retirement of Neal Shulman — and his marriage to singer/actor Dodie Pettit, who took Shulman’s place — the band is now Aztec Two-Step 2.0. Their home base is Westport, where Pettit lived with her husband Kevin Gray. The “Phantom of the Opera” star died of a heart attack in 2016.

Fowler has just published a memoir. “See, It Was Like This …” chronicles his life in the music world. From Johnny Cash knocking on his dressing room door at the Bottom Line, to sharing a stage with Bruce Springsteen, Fowler has had a memorable half-century career.

But the very readable, quickly engaging book is about much more than music. Fowler grew up in Connecticut and Maine, and he brings those carefree but not-easy days to life with wit and insight.

Fowler has quickly become an important part of Westport — and a big fan of it.

“I have such admiration for this town,” he says. “From Paul Newman’s philanthropy, to the great library and Levitt Pavilion, it’s an amazing place.

“Dodie and I have been supported by everyone. We take exercise classes at the Senior Center, and get computer help there. It’s all been very heart-warming.”

Fowler has made “great new friends” like musician/promoter Roger Kaufman.

Though he modestly says there are “far bigger celebrities” than himself here, like Michael Bolton, and Talking Heads’ Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, both acts opened for Aztec Two-Step back in the day.

Fowler’s memoir is available at AztecTwoStep.com. Click here to order.

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Speaking of Aztec Two-Step: Rex Fowler met Joe Meo here almost 5 years ago, and brought him into the band. The saxophonist died unexpectedly in November.

He played with Johnny Mathis, Billy Vera, the Temptations, the Four Tops, the Pointer Sisters and Aretha Franklin, among many others. Click here for a full obituary.

A memorial service will be held today (Sunday, February 11, 2 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport; click here for livestream).

Joe Meo

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Wesley was out early the other day — to greet the sunrise at Eloise Ray Park, and model for “06880”‘s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Maxx Crowley)

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And finally … On this date in 1534, Henry VIII was recognized as supreme head of the Church of England.

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Roundup: Tax-Free Week, Pastaficio, Greenwalds …

Posted on August 21, 2023 | 1 comment

The Westport Downtown Association reminds shoppers that Connecticut’s Sales Tax-Free week began yesterday. It runs through this Saturday (August 26).

Retail purchases of most clothing and footwear priced under $100 are exempt from Connecticut sales and use tax. The exemption applies to each eligible item under $100.f

Many retailers add their own discounts.

For more details on Sales Tax-Free Week, including a list of items that are exempt or taxable, click here.

Footwear (and clothing) is exempt from sales taxes this week — for items under $100. (Photo/Alison Lee)

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Westport firefighters responded to a structure fire on Compo Road South just before midnight yesterday.

All occupants were safely out of the house. Damage was limited to the exterior.

Mutual aid from Norwalk and Fairfield provided station coverage. Westport Police and Emergency Medical Service assisted.

The last unit cleared at 1:36 a.m. As fire companies were leaving, they were dispatched to I-95 northbound between Exits 17 and 18 for a motor vehicle crash involving a car and tractor-trailer, with injuries.

Less than 10 minutes after that call, additional companies responded to a second motor vehicle crash with injuries in the same vicinity. Westport EMS assisted at both incidents.

Compo Road South fire. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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Pastificio has been closed for a couple of weeks.

A sign in its window on the Post Road store says: “We inform our kind customers that Il Pastificio will reopen on Sunday 20 [yesterday], temporarily as a pasta shop and not as a restaurant, until a date to be determined.”

We’re not sure if that means they’ll go back at some point to also serving as a restaurant — or if they’ll close at some point permanently.

“06880” will pass along details when we have them. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

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Tommy Greenwald is a man of many talents. The 1979 Staples High School graduate is a noted advertising executive, playwright and young adult author.

He’s also known as the father of Charlie Greenwald — no slouch in the acting/comedy/writing departments either. (And himself a Staples grad, class of 2012.)

Father and son have now collaborated on a new book. They co-wrote “The Rescues: Finding Home,” a children’s book about rescue animals.

(“It’s appropriate for everyone who’s alive,” notes Tommy, in true marketing mode.)

They’ll be appearing at the Westport Library’s StoryFest in October. If you can’t wait that long, check them out at Brooklyn’s Books are Magic (September 9, noon to 1 p.m.), the Rye Book Festival (September 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or the Chappaqua Book Festival (September 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Or click here to pre-order. The publication date is September 5.

Charlie and Tommy Greenwald, and their book.

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Frank Mastrone brought his very popular American Songbook show to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

Joining him were 2 other Broadway stars, both of whom performed — as he did — in “Phantom of the Opera.”

And both are Westporters: Staples High School graduate and classically trained opera singer Terry Eldh, and Dodie Pettit, aka one-half of Aztec Two-Step 2.0.

The evening was sponsored by Roger Leifer, as part of his “Sunday Series.” He threw a pre- and post-concert party for his tenants — a rare but welcome gesture by a commercial real estate landlord.

Frank Mastrone (center), with (from left) Dodie Pettit and Terry Eldh. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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This has been the “summer of sewers” in Westport.

Work continues in various spots around town — or at least, equipment is ready.

This was the scene yesterday, off Whitney Street:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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A “rainbow” at the Westport Community Gardens frames today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Karen Mather)

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And finally … in honor of Tommy and Charlie Greenwald’s new book (story above):

(Welcome to another week of “06880” stories and features — and another gentle request for readers’ support. Please click here. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Fire Chief, Longshore Inn, Drugs …

Posted on April 18, 2023 | 4 comments

Michael Kronick will retire as chief of the Westport Fire Department, effective May 15.

He’ll continue working though, with the state of Connecticut.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker says, “I appreciate that Chief Kronick has provided ample time with this announcement so that we may insure a smooth, seamless and professional transition at the Fire Department. 

“The town of Westport and its residents have been very fortunate to be the beneficiaries of Mike’s expertise and dedication for many years. On behalf of the citizens of Westport, his fellow employees, and his firefighting colleagues, I am grateful for Mike’s longstanding and dedicated service to our community. I wish him much success in his future endeavors.”

Westport Fire Chief Michael Kronick.

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What’s happening with the Inn at Longshore?

In this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker talks about the new lease modification with Longshore Hospitality LLC.  — and the long-needed updated.

Click below to listen, courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston:

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In a quick and quiet meeting yesterday, the ad hoc committee reviewing a resident’s complaint about 3 books in the Staples High School library formally approved a recommendation to the Superintendent: Keep them on the shelves.

The vote yesterday reflected the 3 votes — all unanimous — that the board took earlier this month.

The committee thanked assistant superintendent of schools Anthony Buono for writing the report, and the community for their support of its work.

The next step: superintendent of schools will read the report, and make a recommendation to the Board of Education.

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Sunday’s “06880” featured Dodie Pettit.

The longtime Westporter was an original “Phantom of the Opera” cast member. That night, she and a dozen others who inaugurated the show were to be honored at the final — and 13,981st — performance.

It was as spectacular an evening as the 35-year musical deserved. There were plenty of bows, by many of the people on stage, and behind the scenes, who made “Phantom” such a wonderful experience.

Here’s one video. Dodie strides proudly into the spotlight around the 1:35 mark, with Sarah Brightman, to well-deserved applause.

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Work has begun Work has begun at West Parish and Hillandale Roads for the installation of a 4-way intersection.

The Department of Public Works is handling the much-needed, long-awaited job.

(Photo courtesy of Westport Department of Public Works)

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Got drugs?

This Saturday (April 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center), the Westport Police Department partners with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, for the 24th annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Residents are asked to look in medicine cabinets and drawers for medications that are no longer needed, or out of date. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.

Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites cannot accept illicit drugs, needles or sharps; only pills or patches.

Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container, with caps tightly sealed.

Vape pens with removable batteries can be disposed of at the take-back site. Vape pens without removable batteries are not accepted.

A year-round collection bin is available in the lobby of Westport police headquarters. Prescription drugs can be disposed of any time there. Click here for more information.

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Staples High’s April Students of the Month are seniors Tyler Darden and Charlotte Gurley, juniors Jonathan Dionne and Cade McGrath, and sophomores Jonah Bernstein and Vivian Shamie.

They have been honored for helping make the school a welcoming place for their peers and teachers. Principal Stafford Thomas calls them “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students who keep the high school together.”

Students of the Month (from left): Jonathan Dionne, Cade McGrath, Jonah Bernstein, Vivian Shamie, Charlotte Gurley, Tyler Darden.

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More Staples news:

Seniors Jason Capozucca and Zoe Finger were honored recently at the 28th annual High School Arts Awards by the Connecticut Association of Schools, for their outstanding ability. Staff members selected Zoe for visual art, and Jason for music.

From left: art teacher Carla Eichler, Zoe Finger, Jason Capozucca, principal Stafford Thomas.

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Here’s a great idea: a fundraiser where your checkbook stays home.

In fact, you go home with a check in your pocket.

Just look at home for gold.

It may be in the form of broken chains or bracelets, old school rings, watches, earrings, jewelry you never wear — even dental gold.

Bring all the gold you can find to William Raveis Real Estate (47 Riverside Avenue) this Thursday, Friday or Saturday (April 20-22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

“Bob the Gold Man” will buy it, and hand you a check.

Then, over 60% of whatever profits are made after the refining process will be donated in your name to the Damon Runyon Foundation and the Dana Farber Cancer Center.

Reservations are preferred (click here), but walk-ins are accepted. Appointments are every 30 minutes.

Questions? Email Beverly.Walsh@raveis.com.

If you’ve got gold ingots lying around, bring them in too.

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Going down today: The small Cape at 330 Compo Road South.

It is — er, was — one of the few small houses on the right-side stretch of the road, between Bradley Street and Soundview Drive, as you head toward the water.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Another house that bit the dust: the one on the first Roseville Road curve coming from the Post Road, just beyond “Little Toot” illustrator Hardie Gramatky’s former home (#60) on the right.

Like Hardie’s — which is still standing — it was a handsome house.

Today, all that remains is this:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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Something different is on tap, at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post.

Musicians and music lovers will celebrate the music of one of the greatest jazz drummers and bandleaders ever: Art Blakey.

Known as “Buhaina” or “Bu,” he is the father of hard bop. He produced and developed more jazz talent than any other leader of his era. His Jazz Messengers band was the Ivy League of jazz finishing schools,

This week (April 20, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) — Part I of the tribute — features an all-star lineup playing classics from his Blue Note recordings of the 1960s.

Musicians include Jazz Messengers alum Steve Davis and Essiet Essiet (trombone and vocals/guitar, respectively), Bill Mobley (trumpet), Michael Cochrane (piano), Steve Johns (drums) and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall (saxes).

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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On Sunday, Westport artist Ann Chernow joined printmaker James Reed for the opening of “Collaboration 2020 Encore” at the Center for Contemporary Printmaking in Norwalk.

The exhibit addresses the alchemy of printmaking as it relates to prints of Pablo Picasso. Chernow and Reed combined their knowledge and experience to produce a complex series of lithographs, replicating the famed artist’s imagery.

It runs through May 21. (Hat tip: Ann Chernow)

Print by Ann Chernow.

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This was the view at Longshore on Sunday.

I wanted to be sure to post it quickly, as a “Westport … Naturally” feature. Every day during springtime here, the view and the colors change.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … on this day in 1775, Paul Revere (and other riders) warned the Massachusetts countryside of British troop movements. The Battle of Lexington and Concord was about to begin.

(From gold to drugs, today’s Roundup keeps you on top of the Westport news. And we do it every day. Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

 

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“Phantom”‘s Final Music Of The Night: Dodie Pettit Will Be There

Posted on April 16, 2023 | 1 comment

When “Phantom of the Opera” ends its remarkable Broadway run tonight, Dodie Pettit will be on stage.

The Westporter was an original cast member. She and a dozen or so others will take a well-deserved bow — right after producer Cameron Mackintosh, and just before composer Andrew Lloyd Webber.

That caps a memorable weekend for Pettit, who met her husband — Kevin Gray, a 1976 Staples High School grad, and the youngest actor to play the lead — in the show.

On Friday, those “Phantom” alumni gathered for a rehearsal. They met the current cast too.

“Most of the ballerinas were not even born when we opened!”  Dodie marvels.

Dodie Pettit and Emilie Kouatchu. The current “Phantom” Christine was not yet born when Dodie played the role.

“Phantom” has smashed many records. It’s been on Broadway for 35 years. Tonight’s performance is its 13,981st. It is one of the most successful pieces of entertainment of all time, produced in any media.

To Pettit though, “Phantom” is about the cast, the crew, and the memories they made together.

Plus, she adds, “it’s a fantastic show, with a beautiful score, a romantic story, ground-breaking stagecraft and gorgeous costumes.

But Pettit almost turned down the offer.

In 1987, she had been singing and dancing as a swing in “Cats” for 4 years. A casting director asked her to audition for the role of Meg.

She hesitated. “I already had a good job,” Pettit recalls.

Her castmates urged her to go. After several callbacks, she was one of 2 finalists. She sang for Webber.

He chose the other one.

When she was offered another role — a dancer in the chorus — she said no.

But she reconsidered, and the next day said yes. Fortunately, they’d held the role open for her.

Rehearsals began that fall. The curtain rose on January 26, 1988.

“I had a blast,” Dodie says. She understudied Meg, other roles.

She met, performed with — and later married — Kevin.

Dodie Pettit and Kevin Gray.

She also auditioned 3 times for Christine’s understudy. “(Director) Hal Prince finally said yes. I think he was tired of me.”

After 3 years, Dodie and Kevin joined the national tour. They spent another 3 1/2 years on the road. They played the Kennedy Center twice, and met Presidents George H.W. Bush and Clinton.

“Bill had a great time. He didn’t want to leave the stage,” she recalls.

“It’s hard to articulate” what returning to the Majestic Theater on Friday was like, Dodie says.

“Backstage, the proscenium, the scenery, the costumes — everything was the same. It was like I’d just left.”

Also familiar: picking up with castmates, most of whom she’d last seen at the 30th anniversary 5 years ago. The rehearsal pianist, and first and second conductors, have all been there throughout the show’s 3 1/2-decade run.

Dodie Pettit, at the 30th anniversary gala.

Dodie says, “We all stood around the piano singing, saying ‘This is wild!’ We sounded good! The only difference is, we all look older.”

Seeing the “Phantom” stage again reminded Dodie how great her experience had been.

“It’s an old-fashioned story that brings a tear to your eye,” she says. “The whole thing looks luscious, like grand opera.

“It stamped my life trajectory. I met my husband, and traveled the country. It stabilized our lives. It bought us our house. It gave me a pension.

“I made life-long friends. We shared this great, impossible-to-articulate experience.

“‘Phantom’ gave everyone in it cachet, for anything else they wanted to do.

“And to think I almost turned it all down!”

Dodie Pettit’s ticket, to tonight’s final performance.

ENCORE: Dodie Pettit and Kevin Gray are not the only Westport “Phantom” actors. Former Staples Player and Orphenian Terry Eldh covered the role of Carlotta in the Broadway company, from 1991 through ’99.

The 1975 graduate joined Dodie the other night at an informal gathering — with singing, of course — in New York.

(“06880” is your ticket to Broadway — and all other entertainment news involving Westporters. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Dodie Pettit and Cameron Mackintosh, at Friday’s rehearsal.

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Roundup: Lynsey Addario, Dracula, Tornadoes …

Posted on February 18, 2022 | 5 comments

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Yesterday’s “06880” highlighted Tyler Hicks’ haunting photos from Ukraine.

But he’s not the only New York Times photographer shooting images in that threatened nation.

He’s not even the only one who is a Staples High School graduate.

Hick’s colleague Lynsey Addario — who graduated 3 years after Hicks, in 1991, and is both a Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur Fellow winner — has contributed her own important work.

This one shows — and humanizes — embattled Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraine president Volodomyr Zelensky (Photo/Lynsey Addario for the New York Times)

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Wednesday’s “Fall in Love with Westport” event was a great success.

A number of new neighbors joined “old timers” at Greens Farms Church. They shared tips and stories about life in this town. Just as importantly, they connected around kids, previous residences and similar needs.

It was a diverse crowd, with an international flavor. They plan to get together again soon.

If you missed the event and want to know more, email office@greensfarmschurch. All are welcome — church membership is not required!

“Fall in Love with Westport” at Greens Farms Church.

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On Halloween I was honored to hear the world premiere of “Dracula: The Covenant.” That’s the musical project Westporter Dodie Pettit worked on for years with her husband, the late Broadway star Kevin Gray. (It was in the works long before a similar show with the same name flopped.)

With help from husband Rex Fowler — with whom she performs, as Aztec Two-Step 2.0 — Dodie completed the project.

Now it’s on Spotify and other digital media. CDs will arrive soon. To download and listen now to this enthralling work, click here.


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In the wake of December’s devastating Kentucky tornadoes, Westporter Steve Crowley and his sons organized a fundraiser downtown.

Governor Andy Beshear recently thanked Crowley for both the money donated, and the specially designed t-shirts created for and sent to affected families.

Beshear also cited the “love and support” of donors, noting “we can come together in troubling times and give a lift to our friends and neighbors. In Kentucky we say ‘we will get through this, we’ll get through this together.’ Thank you for caring and contributing in our time of need.”

Steve Crowley (right) and sons sold t-shirts downtown.

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Edward Thompson is the beloved minister of music at Westport’s Unitarian Church.

He does far more than pick songs and direct the choir. He’s a working composer. On Saturday, February 26 (8 p.m., Unitarian Church of Westport), New York’s Choral Chameleon offers the world premiere of his 12-movement choral piece “Step into the Night.” A jazz quartet will join the voices.

Thompson wrote the work in response to situations like the pandemic, filled with isolation and fear. It includes elements of both the classical tradition and jazz.

Tickets are $25 each, available online and at the door.

Edward Thompson

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There is always something new at Finding Westport.

Jillian Elder has just added t-shirts (short and long sleeve), tanks, hoodies, tumblers, totes and mugs with 2 designs: the Minute Man in an “Interstate” crest (click here to see and order) and “I Really Miss Westport” (click here).

New “Finding Westport” designs.

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Alison Milwe Grace wears two toques. She’s a highly regarded culinary teacher at Staples High School. And her AMG Catering offers not just food for every event, but cooking classes.

Now she’s a television star. News12 Connecticut is featuring her, offering 5 favorite recipes, like honey-glazed chicken thighs and mussels with garlic toast. Click here to see (and then cook!).

Screenshot of Alison Milwe Grace.

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There’s a moose on the Sherwood Island Connector.

At least, it looked like that to Katja Gabrielson. When she posted this image — which I’m stealing as the “Westport … Naturally” image today — on Facebook, many users chimed in that they thought exactly the same thing.

Longtime “06880” readers George, Bev and Jeff Bullwinkel were not available for comment.

(Photo/Katja Gabrielson)

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And finally … because this is (as you know) National Condom Week:

 

 

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“06880” Podcast: Rex Fowler & Dodie Pettit

Posted on December 14, 2021 | Comments Off on “06880” Podcast: Rex Fowler & Dodie Pettit

It’s tough to cram half a century of music stardom — and a spectacular new musical about Dracula — into a half-hour conversation.

But that’s what Rex Fowler, Dodie Pettit and I did in our latest “06880” podcast, at the Westport Library’s Verso Studios.

He’s the co-founder of Aztec Two-Step, the internationally known folk-and-more band. She’s a longtime Westporter/Broadway singer and dancer who — while married to fellow actor/singer/Staples High School graduate Kevin Gray — collaborated on that Dracula show. (Not the one that flopped on Broadway.)

Now Dodie and Rex are married too. They perform together as Aztec Two-Step 2.0. And they recently unveiled the soundtrack of their “Dracula” musical at their Westport home.

Click below to listen to their fascinating stories about life on stage, and here.

 

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“Breathe”

Posted on October 21, 2020 | 7 comments

Rex Fowler calls John Lennon “a genius.” “Imagine,” for example, is “one of the simplest, most straightforward protest songs ever.”

But not all Lennon’s social commentary songs measures up. “Power to the People,” for example, is “one of the worst.”

Fowler should know. Since founding the folk-rock band Aztec Two-Step nearly 40 years ago, he’s written his share of political tunes. “Living in America” and “Naked” are 2 examples.

It’s not easy, though. Fowler — a Westport resident — notes, “there’s a temptation to preach, or use platitudes.”

Fowler and his wife Dodie Pettit — now part of Aztec Two-Step — avoided those pitfalls with their latest release.

Aztec Two-Step: Dodie Pettit and Rex Fowler.

“Breathe” was born out of this summer’s peaceful, passionate protests after the murder of George Floyd, and other unarmed Black men and women.

“I was proud of so many people — young and old, every color and creed — getting out and doing something. It really gave me hope,” Fowler says.

But he knew better than to try to force a song. A good creation must be “visceral, soulful,” he says. “Once it starts, it rolls out. But I can’t manufacture it.”

For a couple of weeks, Fowler fiddled with a guitar melody. He particularly liked Neil Young’s “Down by the River.” Pettit thought her partner was on to something.

“It’s such an iconic song,” Fowler explains. “‘Be on my side, I’ll be on your side … You take my hand, I’ll take your hand…'”

Fowler and Pettit included 2 of Young’s verses, then added their own.

They also drew on Martin Luther King, Sam Cooke’s soaring anthem “A Change is Gonna Come,” rapper Killer Mike’s rallying cry to vote, and a few notable slogans chanted by the hundreds of thousands of peaceful protestors.

The result was “Breathe.”

Aztec Two-Step could not use Neil Young’s lyrics without permission. They tried hard to get it. They hired a lawyer, and sent letters to his publicist and manager. They received a cease-and-desist order. Fowler and Pettit are sure the singer/songwriter never knew what they were asking.

“He rightfully doesn’t want people taking his music, and changing it,” Fowler says. “But I think if he heard ‘Breathe,’ he’d really enjoy it.”

In fact, Fowler adds, in January Young — a Canadian by birth — became an American citizen. He did it in part to be able to vote against President Trump.

Undaunted, Fowler and Pettit removed the “Down by the River” verses. They changed Young’s melodic ideas.

But the beginning — Pettit’s gritty lead guitar solo — sounds like a tribute to Young’s style. “He really resonates with us,” Pettit says.

The song was recorded here in Westport, in Aztec Two-Step’s home studio. Band members came in one at a time — because of COVID-19 — to overdub their parts.

Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit were married in Westport. Their studio is in their home.

At first, Fowler wanted to send “Breathe” out to disc jockeys and program managers complete with the back story. Instead, he and Pettit decided to let listeners hear it with “clear ears,” and figure the meaning out themselves.

All proceeds will go to Black Lives Matter. That’s controversial, the couple acknowledges. There’s been pushback on social media from some people they thought were friends.

Still, Pettit says, “this is a moral cause we’re proud to lend our support to. We’re setting down our marker. We’re standing up and bein counted. We have a voice, and people listen.”

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