Staples Players has earned well-deserved praise, for launching the careers of many young actors.
But Music Theatre of Connecticut plays an important “role,” too. It’s based now just over the border in Norwalk. But its Westport roots run deep.
“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung reports on the award-winning non-profit professional company.
Music Theatre of Connecticut was co-founded by Kevin Connors (now executive director) and Jim Schilling (the current managing director).
Since 1987 they’ve produced and directed — and sometimes starred in — a swirl of plays and musicals for every conceivable audience.
That’s in addition to running a popular conservatory, for children and adults on the side. Classes — for those as young as kindergarten — cover acting (including TV and film), musical theater, improv, dance and voice. There is a special “college prep” program too.
MTC offers a variety of classes for young actors.
MTC began at Fairfield’s Andrew Warde High School nearly 40 years ago. Their first play, “Ebenezer!,” was “a twist on ‘A Christmas Carol,’” Kevin says. “It has an Ivan Boesky character” — appropriate for the time.
They soon built a sliver of a theater in the lower level of Westport’s Colonial Green. With seating for only 47, the space felt intimate to both performers and playgoers. That immediacy has been an MTC hallmark ever since.
Kevin Connors
On that tiny stage Connors and Schilling re-imagined shows of all sizes — even large ones — while reducing casts to 14 at most.
They produced shows like “Evita” and “Ragtime” with dexterity and confidence, and one of the best productions of “The Fantasticks” I’ve ever seen (Schilling was excellent as the eccentric Mortimer).
Audience could purchase beer or wine, and drink during performances (they still do). This was thrilling, at a time when Broadway theaters prohibited pretty much everything but breath mints and epi-pens.
Soon MTC was “exploding” out of their beloved micro-theatre. The founders searched for larger spaces.
After 13 years they found their current spot: a former kitchen cabinet warehouse at 509 Westport Avenue in Norwalk. They built a black box theater. Just about the only drawback: It’s a bit tricky to find.
In this space, Connors and Schilling have nurtured talent like composer Justin Paul (“he could never walk by a piano without playing it”). They cast Broadway veterans such as Adam Pascal and Joanna Gleason, and developed both new shows and standard favorites.
They expanded seating to 110 seats, due to growing demand. But they’ve maintained their signature cozy, personal theater experience.
MTC works with A Better Chance of Westport students, and developmentally challenged adults through STAR. Children from the Norwalk Housing Authority are invited to 2 annual 8-week workshops. They stage shows for their parents, in a partnership funded by corporations and the state of Connecticut.
Today, Connors and Schilling are expanding again, creating a shared space for audiences. They purchased empty ballet studios next door. The lobby is now a gathering spot for play-goers to sip cocktails, enjoy snacks, and mingle.
MTC lobby.
They’re also tearing down walls; adding an 80-seat cabaret, rehearsal studios and additional dressing rooms, and making empty spaces available to dance companies such as Dance Collective.
“I’m really hell-bent on this — anything we can do to form a community for our donors, our subscribers, with other organizations,” Connors says. “So much of what we do is about community.”
And — first in Westport, now Norwalk — that community has been nurtured, ever since Ivan Boesky was a household name, and Justin Paul wunknown.
He’s a gifted artist, graphic designer and photographer. He designed a Time magazine cover and a US postage stamp, while still in his 20s.
The son of a noted illustrator, he’s a Staples High School graduate who has spent his career in Westport. He serves corporate clients, but never says no to pro bono work on behalf of local causes. He’s designed logos, posters and promotional materials for a host of organizations.
Miggs created the Westport town flag — and the lenticular photos that grace 2 important spots: the “Tunnel of Love” between Main Street and Parker Harding Plaza, and Saugatuck train station.
Downtown Tunnel of Love (Photo/Susan Leone)
He’s a founder of — and a guiding force behind — the Artists Collective of Westport. And you see him every Memorial Day, as our very own living, breathing Minute Man.
(Photo/Ted Horowitz)
He’s an all-around great, giving guy.
And today, Miggs Burroughs turns 80 years old.
Happy birthday, Miggs! Thanks for all you have done — and continue to do — for Westport, and beyond. Here’s to many years of health, happiness, creativity and coolness. (Hat tip: Carmine Picarello)
Justin Paul’s experience in Staples Players — the high school’s award-winning drama program — was foundational to his award-winning career that followed.
The 2003 graduate and his songwriting partner, Benj Pasek, created “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.” They’re the youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony) winners ever.
High school theater changes many more lives than Paul’s, of course. Wauwatosa (Wisconsin) High just became the first school troupe anywhere to stage “Dear Evan Hansen.”
This weekend, “CBS Saturday Morning” highlighted the production. Included in the story was an interview with Paul and Pasek — and a touching scene of the duo telling the 17-year-old star to “break an arm” (IYKYK). Click here or below to see.
There’s also a link to a full, longer interview with Paul and Pasek. It’s well worth the 38 minutes — excellent questions, and insightful responses (particularly about the importance of high school theater). Click here or below to see. (Hat tip: John Dodig)
The honor recognizes “leadership, innovation, and measurable impact across the radio industry.”
The recognition follows Connoisseur’s acquisition of Alpha Media’s assets, a move that propelled them into the top 10 US radio operators by revenue.
“The spirit of entrepreneurism is alive in the radio industry,” Warshaw Radio Ink interview. “We have pep in our step.”
Radio Ink president and publisher Deborah Parenti calls Warshaw “a risk taker and visionary.”
Editor-in-chief Cameron Coats says that in 2025 Warshaw combined “vision, discipline, and belief in what local radio can still achieve.”
Jeff Warshaw at his desk, overlooking Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Staples High School Class of 1998 graduate Sage Hammond died peacefully on Friday.
She attended the School of Visual Arts, where she deepened her lifelong love of fashion, design and visual expression.
Her obituary says, “Smart and sassy, Sage lived her life on her own terms. She was known for her quick wit, an exceptional sense of style, and a natural talent for both fashion and interior design. Wherever she lived, she created spaces that reflected her bold taste and creative eye.
“Sage was also a gifted cook who loved sharing gourmet meals with friends, and turning ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions. She loved animals deeply, particularly cats, and over her lifetime shared her heart and home with many.
“Despite her own struggles, Sage had an instinctive ability to lift others up, often making people laugh when they needed it most. Her humor, warmth, and authenticity left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
“Sage lived boldly, loved deeply, and never believed in dull moments—she wouldn’t want one now.”
She was predeceased by her grandfather, Larry Racies. She is survived by her mother, Robin Hammond; father Jon Hammond; sister Gabriele Hammond (Bradley Topar); nephew Oliver and grandmother Gail Williams.
A celebration of Sage’s life will be held at a later date.
So when he married Jessica Trainham in Darien a few weeks ago, the music was not your run-of-the-mill — or even a cut above — wedding band.
Seal headlined. (He waived his usual seven-figure fee for private events. And hired another drummer for the night.)
Most weddings do not have a singer named Seal.
The officiant was a boldface nametoo, with Staples ties. Justin Paul — the 2002 grad, and second youngest EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) winner in history (6 months older than his “Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman” songwriting partner Benj Pasek) — tied the knot.
Drew McKeon and Jessica Trainham, with officiant Justin Paul.
Also in attendance: Alisan Porter. The Class of 1999 alum — who went on to fame in “Footloose” and “A Chorus Line,” then won “The Voice” in 2016 — sang at the “warm-up” event the night before, at Fairfield Theatre Company.
Drew Angus (SHS ’07, “American Idol” contestant) was at Drew’s wedding too. So was Ryan Smith (SHS ’97).
Ryan Smith and Alisan Porter provide entertainment the night before the ceremony.
The nuptials were not, of course, an all-Staples affair.
Thirty members of Bolton’s touring band flew in from across the country. It was their first reunion since the singer’s brain tumor halted his shows. (He’s in “good spirits and good health,” a recent report says.) They added tremendous energy and musical talent to the weekend.
Meanwhile, for the curious: Drew and Jessica met in West Hollywood. She is a model, actress and entrepreneur, running a home organization business. They live near the beach in Marina del Rey.
But for Drew — and his many Staples musical friends — Westport will always be home too.
The dress code was formal. But when 90% of the guests are musicians, that’s a loose definition. Staples Class of 2001 and novelist Ted Thompson (right) sports a more conservative look.
(“06880” is truly where Westport meets the world. If you enjoy stories like this — or anything else on our hyper-local-yet-also-global blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
It’s one of Staples High School’s newest — and best — traditions.
A couple of days before graduation, seniors visit the 5 elementary schools where they started their Westport education years ago.
Wearing caps and gowns, they greet “old” teachers (and classrooms). Youngsters watch reverently, and begin thinking of their own futures.
The photo below, from yesterday’s event at Saugatuck Elementary School, shows the many soon-to-be grads from Staples — plus 4 classmates who graduated the other day from Greens Farms Academy grads — along with SES mascot Saugy the Seal.
Several dozen other seniors headed back to Long Lots Elementary.
A couple of years from now though, returning students from that school will not recognize their alma mater.
Last night, the Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved a new 8-24 plan for construction of a new Long Lots. That was a major hurdle on the road to a modern, $100+ million building.
The process continues tonight, with meetings of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) Education and Finance Committees (Tuesday, 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., respectively; both in Town Hall Room 201).
Tomorrow (Wednesday, June 11, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Board of Finance meets to okay the project. Final approval could come Thursday (June 12, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) from the full RTM.
The new Long Lots Elementary School.
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A few hours after the looking-back elementary schools event, seniors gazed forward.
Staples Tuition Grants handed out $400,000 in scholarships, to 102 recipients. (Some are already in college, and have received previous grants.) They’re attending 71 schools.
Marcus Harper — father of Max Harper, a ’25 member who died in an accident last September — spoke about a new initiative: the Live Life to the Max Award. It helps students suffering from ADHD.
Galen Blumenthal — a 2008 recipient, and former Staples Player and Student Assembly member — described his journey from the University of Texas to his return to Westport, as a management consultant. He urged the recipients to never be afraid to ask for help, and to always give back.
He’s doing that himself. Galen just joined the Staples Tuition Grants board.
Some of the 2025 Staples Tuition Grants honorees. (Photo/Rebecca Mace)
The swimmer — the best in Staples High School history, and perhaps the state — just swam the 4th fastest time in the US for the 50 free (24.62), in the 17-18 age group.
That’d faster than the time posted by the current world record holder, Gretchen Walsh (now 22), when she competed in the event at that age.
Annam is also the only 18-and-under swimmer to compete in the women’s 50 meter freestyle final at the 2025 U.S. Championships. And: She earned a spot on the World Junior team, and will compete in Romania this summer.
But wait — there’s more!
Annam also co-chairs the Westport Youth Commission.
And she is secretary of Staples’ Teen Awareness Group.
It should be no surprise to anyone that she will swim for Stanford University this fall.
And go far beyond that, in life.
Annam Olasewere
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“John Proctor is the Villain” — produced by Westporter Eric Falkenstein, and co-produced by residents Ben Frimmer and Ari Benmosche — did not win a Tony on Sunday for Best New Play.
But our town was well represented on the Radio City Music Hall stage anyway.
Staples High School graduate Justin Paul and his writing partner (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman”) joined Marc Shaiman and Scott Witman to write the award show’s opening number (performed by host Cynthia Erivo). Click below to see:
Speaking of “John Proctor”: Westport resident and veteran TV journalist Anne Craig interviewed Ben Frimmer — the Staples High graduate/Coleytown Middle School theater teacher/director mentioned in the item above — about his involvement as a producer.
He too has a Justin Paul connection. Click below or below to learn more.
Speaking of plays: Staples Players’ recent presentation of “The Diary of Anne Frank” was a powerful staging of the inspiring story drawn from the writings of the German teenager, who for nearly 2 years hid from Nazi with her family and others, in a small annex behind an Amsterdam warehouse wall.
It was, audiences agreed, a show that is important to be seen by young students — particularly in these times.
Fortunately, it was.
The high school drama troupe gave 3 special performances during school hours. The result: every Westport Public Schools 8th grader saw the show, for free.
Those youngsters also met Andy Sarkany. The 89-year-old Hungary native immigrated to the US. He earned master’s degrees in math and computer science, worked for McDonnell Douglas and IBM, and has spent the past decade speaking to students about his experiences during the Holocaust, livng under the brutal Soviet regime, and finding a home in this country.
Bedford Middle School principal Adam Rosen says that the Players’ show “brought real emotional depth to what students have been exploring in the Human Rights Unit.”
Janna Sirowich, Coleytown Middle School principal, adds, “It aligns perfectly with our curriculum. But more importantly it provides our students with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on history, empathy, and resilience.”
Andy Sarkeny, on the “Anne Frank” set, talks with 8th graders. (Photo/Kerry Long)
Speaking of theater: Last night’s Westport Country Playhouse script in hand reading of “The Shark is Broken” offered a clever, behind-the-scenes look at the making of “Jaws.” The groundbreaking film is now 50 years old.
From left: Actors Ciaran Byrne, Patrick Halley, Seth Andrew Bridges, Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan, stage director Faith Sandberg. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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An update on HB5002, the controversial omnibus housing bill passed by the state General Assembly last week:
Though it has been sent to Governor Lamont — and he was widely expected to sign it — he has not yet done so.
CT Mirror reports that after heated opposition to the bill this weekend, the governor may call a special session, for revisions. Click here for the full story.
Governor Lamont — shown here at the Westport Library — has not yet signed the housing bill. (Photo/Ryan Allen)
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Peonies look beautiful all the time.
But they’re especially lovely when tinged with raindrops, as in today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image:
And finally … Sly Stone, who the New York Times calls an “influential, eccentric and preternaturally rhythmic singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer whose run of hits in the late 1960s and early ’70s with his band the Family Stone could be dance anthems, political documents or both,” died yesterday in Los Angeles.
He was 82, and had battled lung disease and other health issues.
Sly & the Family Stone played 2 memorable concerts in Westport, a month apart.
On May 25, 1968 — a year after their debut “Dance to the Music” rocketed them to the top — they played at a “sock hop,” in the Staples High School gym.
On June 25 that same year, they were on stage at the Longshore Inn. I had finished 9th grade at Long Lots Junior High the week before. A couple of friends and I snuck into the ballroom (it wasn’t hard).
I’ve seen plenty of concerts since then. I’ve never been closer at one to a mega-star — or been to a show with more raw energy, power and life.
(From Broadway to Westport — and everywhere else — readers rely on “06880” for all the local news, features and music. If you enjoy our work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Disney’s “Snow White” — a live-action version of the 1937 animated Disney film “Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs” — opens in theaters on Friday (March 21).
It includes reimagined classics, and all new songs. What makes this “06880”-worthy is that the music is by Pasek & Paul.
The Westport half of that Emmy/Grammy/Oscar/Tony-winning duo is 2003 Staples High School graduate Justin Paul. They’ve already written the music and lyrics for (among others) “Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land” and “The Greatest Showman.”
Both are huge Disney fans. Click below to hear them discuss their work with “the one that started it all.”
Another Westport boldface name — Christian Soriano — is closing his local shop.
The fashion designer — whose outfits were worn at this year’s Oscars by Halle Berry, Queen Latifah and Whoopi Goldberg — is relocating his Collective West store to New York City.
(Siriano — a Westporter since 2020 — is not leaving.)
“One More Celebration” is set for Wednesday (March 19, 6 to 9 p.m., 940 Post Road East).
Siriano will be there, offering “fashion, cocktails, and a stylish sendoff.” No RSVP needed.
The Animal Awareness Night — postponed earlier this month — is set for Wednesday (March 19, 7 p.m., police station classroom).
Topics include wildlife (with officer Peter Reid), pet adoption (with Westport Animal Shelter Advocates’ Julie Loparo), and dog licensing guidelines. The event is free.
Westport Animal Control officer Peter Reid is a featured speaker at Wednesday’s Animal Awareness Night.
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Bedford Acting Group’s 6th graders take the stage this Friday through Sunday (March 21-23) for “Alice in Wonderland Jr.”
It’s a 60-minute musical adaptation of the Disney classic, with both familiar and new songs. Long Lots Elementary School teacher Anna Woodin (Friday), and Saugatuck El’s Katie Bloom (Saturday evening) perform alongside former students. There is a meet-and-greet for younger kids after Saturday’s matinee.
Double cast Alices, Queens of Hearts and Caterpillars:Aubrey Steffa, Charlotte Naughton, Ellie Delorier, Chloe Robbin, Lola Rockwell, Charlotte Leykind.
“Seared” — the comedy that brings audiences into a kitchen — earned rave reviews, in its first 2 weekends at Weston’s Lachat Town Farm.
First produced off-Broadway in 2019, the show earned Outer Critics Circle Awards. As garlic and onions sizzle on stage, the play explores conflicts between artistic passion and the pressures of the business world.
Show dates are Friday and Saturday (March 21 and 22) at 7:30 p.m., Sunday (March 23) at 3 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Wesleyan University’s storybook men’s basketball season continues.
The Cardinals edged Emory 61-58 in a thrilling game Saturday. Oscar Edelman — a 6-8 freshman from Westport — scored 7 points.
The win propels them into their first-ever NCAA Division III Final 4.
Wes travels to Fort Wayne, Indiana this week. On Thursday (5:30 p.m.) they take on a familiar foe: in-state rival Trinity College. Click here for the full story.
Oscar Edelman
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A large crowd was entertained at the Westport Library yesterday afternoon by The Hudson Arts Ensemble.
Trumpeter Bill Owen and pianist Yalin Chi played all French composers –Debussy, Faure, Ravel and others. The duo are currently with the West Point Band.
Hudson Arts Ensemble (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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The bald eagle is back. Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted the handsome bird, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
The smoky odor that pervaded much of Westport was due to a wildfire.
In Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
Smoke from the Berkshires drifted southward, then hung around.
Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “Smoke in the air is a stark reminder of how quickly fires can spread under the right conditions. We urge all residents to remain diligent, and respect the outdoor burning ban to keep our community safe.”
As seen from Sherwood Island State Park, smoke from Massachusetts lingers over Cockenoe Island. (Photo/Chris Swan)
They were named Counry Music Association Vocal Group of the Year for the 7th time. That beats Little Big Town’s 6 awards.
Old Dominion’s lead guitarist, Brad Tursi, is a 1997 Staples High School graduate (and former soccer star). Last month, he wowed a sell-out Levitt Pavilion crowd last month, as a solo artist with a different backup band.
Old Dominion, at last night’s Country Music Association awards. Westport native Brad Tursi is at far left. (Hat tip and photo/Tricia Summers)
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The other day, “06880” reported on harsh, homemade and very un-neighborly sign posted by a Fillow Street resident.
She was (rightly) upset by very-unneighborly neighbors who neglected to pick up the dog poop deposited on her lawn.
I think she reads “06880.” It’s been replaced by this much smaller, more reasonable, and decidedly neighborly one:
The largest crowd ever turned out for last night’s Artists Collective of Westport show opening, at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn.
All works — over 100, in a wide variety of styles, genres and materials — are available for purchase. And all are 12″ x 12″, making them easy to ship.
The show runs through Sunday, November 24 (noon to 4 p.m., Sheffer Barn at Westport Country Playhouse).
Nina Bentley is one of the many artists whose 12×12 work is on display at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
Alisan Porter (Staples High School Class of 1999) and Drew McKeon (SHS ’00) are hitting the road in New England this week, support Alisan’s new record, “The Ride.”
The longtime friends co-wrote the single “Nothing’s Broken,” which Drew produced in his “tiny Manhattan apartment bedroom,” his parents’ Westport basement, and his friend Tim Walsh’s home studio in Black Rock.
Drew finished with vocal tracking at Charlie Chaplin’s old Hollywood lot.
Drew and Alison perform a set of Alisan’s original music spanning her career — including selections from her winning season on NBC’s “The Voice” — this Saturday (November 23) at the intimate Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Other performances include The Cut in Gloucester, Massachusetts (November 30), the Music Hall Lounge in Portsmouth, New Hampshire (December 2), and Boston’s City Winery (December 4).
Alisan Porter and Drew McKeon.
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Speaking of Staples alumni entertainers: “The Good Whale” — a new 6-episode New York Times podcast about “Free Willy” orca star Keiko, once the cameras stopped rolling — includes an original song by Staples High School graduate Justin Paul, and his writing partner Benj Pasek.
They’ve already won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony. Can whatever award is given for podcast music far behind? (Hat tip: Ann Humphrey)
Speaking of music: Weston High School junior Owen Daniel has just released his debut single.
“Fear of Losing You — the first song he ever wrote — was produced at Norwalk’s Factory Underground Studio. It is available on all streaming outlets. Click here to listen and download.
More entertainment news: This Sunday (November 24, 7 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company), Westporter Hannah Levin (Greens Farms Academy Class of 2015) screens her short film, “Golden Child,” as part of the FTC Short Film Festival.
The plot: a young woman is reunited with her childhood friend at a pool party, and reckons with the fact that he used to pee on her when they were kids.
Former Staples High School football star Willard “Buz” Leavitt — part of the 1964 backfield that included Bill During, John Bolger and Jack Forehand — died on November 13. He was 77, and lived in Blythewood, South Carolina.
Buz moved from Burnt Hills, New York to Westport as a junior. After his stellar Staples seasons, he headed to Wake Forest University. He earned ACC Offensive Player of the Week mention, and graduated in 1970.
He met his wife Anne there. They married in 1969, and were together for 55 years.
Buz spent 32 years with Procter & Gamble in Charlotte, as sales manager and special events director.
For spent decades coaching youth sports, and was admired by players and parents alike.
Buz is survived by his wife Anne; sons Chris (Darla) of Greenville, South Carolina, Charley (Heather) of Charlotte, and Courtney (Shelley) of Blythewood; brother Scott (Bridget), of Charlotte; sister Susan Pittman, of Roswell, Georgia, and grandchildren Riley, Zoe, Lila, Ian, Banks, Ella Chase, Eliza and Olivia.
A service to celebrate his life will be on November 22 (1 p.m.), at the Clubhouse at Cobblestone Park in Blythewood.
In Lieu of flowers, a gift in Buz’s memory can be made to Baby Bundles, a Charlotte nonprofit that provides essential baby items to families in need.
Longtime Westport realtor Margherita (Marj) Basili died last Friday. She was 94, and also lived in Palatka, Florida.
The New Haven native worked her way through New York University, and graduated with a degree in business.
She worked as a management consultant, then worked for the Australian Consolidated Press in New York.
In 1957 Marj moved to Naples, Italy, where she supported the 6th Fleet as a buyer and merchandising manager in the Naval Postal Exchange (PX).
She married in Italy, then and returned to the US in 1960 to start a family. She taugh in Milford and Westport elementary schools.
By 1969, a single mother of 3 young boys, she shifted into commercial and residential real estate
Her family says, “Marj curated a large group of friends, knitted together by her interests in life and her empathetic approach to others. She reveled in helping others. No problem was insurmountable to her.”
She survived by her sons, Giuseppe (Dean) of Norman, Oklahoma, Gianfranco (Allison) of St. Augustine, Florida, and Roberto (Sara) of Bergen, Norway, granddaughters Alexandra Basili Gunther (Ben) and Johanne, and grandsons Benjamin and Filip.
At Marj’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.
And finally … in honor (or at least recognition) of yesterday’s visit from Great Barrington:
(Many “06880” readers contacted us yesterday, wondering about the smoky smell. We’re glad the town turns to us. But we rely on your support to keep us going. Please click here to help. Thanks!)
Posted onSeptember 9, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Justin Paul’s EGOT, Paralympics Bronze, NASCAR Silver …
Justin Paul got his EGOT!
The 2003 Staples High School graduate, and his writing partner Benj Pasek, joined the ultra-exclusive group yesterday.
Their Creative Arts Emmy for “Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?,” from “Only Murders in the Building,” completes the prestigious 4-play.
They previously earned a Grammy for the cast album of “Dear Evan Hansen,” an Oscar for the “La La Land” song “City of Stars,” and 2 Tonys (for the score of “Dear Evan Hansen,” and as producers of “A Strange Loop”).
Only 19 other people have won EGOTs (for an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony). The list includes Richard Rogers, Helen Hayes, Rita Moreno, John Gielgud, Audrey Hepburn, Marvin Hamlisch, Mel Brooks, Mike Nichols, Whoopi Goldberg, and Sir Elton John.
So with his EGOT, we now have even more proof: Justin Paul is the GOAT! (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)
Justin Paul and Benj Pasek, with their earlier Grammy Awards.
Yesterday’s CT United Motorcycle Ride honored the victims and first responders of 9/11 in its traditional way.
The largest motorcycle ride in the state began at Sherwood Island State Park. Hundreds of riders headed south on I-95, then north on Route 33 up Riverside Avenue and Wilton Road. The ride continued through Wilton and 7 towns, before ending at Bridgeport’s Seaside Park.
It was quite a sight to see — and hear.
Bob Levy reports: “Police, firefighters and ordinary people were there to honor that day.
“My family was there. Each of us were glad and touched we were. My little granddaughters asked if they will have this every year.”
They sure will. And it’s an honor for our town to be the starting point.
Start of the CT United ride, at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Bob Levy)
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The Paralympics ended with a bang for Matthew Torres.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA Water Rat swimmer won a bronze medal, as part of the US 4×100 mixed freestyle team.
It was Matthew’s 2nd Paralympics bronze. He earned his first 4 years ago, in Tokyo.
Matthew also raced this year in the 400 meter freestyle, where he finished 5th; the 100 meter backstroke (10th), and 100 meter freestyle (15th).
Matthew Torres in the water …
The Ansonia native was born with amniotic band syndrome. He is missing half his right leg, has deformities on both hands and moderate hearing loss.
He began swimming in 2008, after watching Michael Phelps at the Beijing Olympics. The rest is history.
Congratulations to Matthew; his teammates, friends and family, and his coaches at the Y and the national level. You made Westport proud! (Hat tips; Maggie Gomez, Christina Schwerin)
… and on the podium.
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Speaking of sports: Parker Kligerman tied his best career Xfinity Series finish in Atlanta Saturday.
The 2009 Staples High School graduate — perhaps the only former Wrecker to become a NASCAR driver — came in second, just behind winner Austin Hill.
Kligerman predicts a win is coming, for the Big Machine No. 48 crew. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)
The other day, “06880” gave a shout-out to Ruben, at the Westport Post Office.
Less than a week later, here’s another. Denise Torve writes: “Last week I stopped in to the PO, took care of business, then headed to Trader Joe’s — only to discover my wallet was missing.
“I went straight back to the PO, fingers crossed, to see Ruben waving the wallet when he saw me come in. He was a lifesaver, given what was in it.
“He had also already posted on Facebook that I had left something there. So thank you Ruben — and thank you Dan for your positive, good news posts!”
They celebrated Friday, with a Saugatuck Rowing Club bash. The event included dinner, dancing, a silent auction, tributes to founder Jessica Bram and former executive director Valerie Ann Leff, and a special storytelling session.
Funds raised will help underwrite WWW’s outreach programs serving underrepresented populations, like the Bigelow Senior Center, Moms of Children with Disabilities, and STAR.
Westport Writers’ Workshop founder Jessica Bram, and executive director Blake Schnirring.
Yesterday’s New York Times‘ “Found in the Files” feature — a weekly look at something from the newspaper’s clippings library — focused on Alan Abel.
The longtime Westporter was known for his hoaxes — including convincing the Times to print his obituary, even though he was very much alive.
The “Files” story focused on Abel’s first big effort, in 1959, about a non-existent non-profit called the Society for Indecency to Naked Animals. Its mission was to clothe dogs, cats, horses, cows and others, to protect children from lewdness.
Click here for the full Times story. (Hat tip: Les Dinkin)
Alan Abel, with a (supposed) copy of the Society for Indecency to Naked Animals newsletter.
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Westport native and longtime resident Janet Aley died peacefully at home on July 21. She was 98.
Her family calls her “a kind, warm, intelligent, creative person, with a twinkle in her eye and a whimsical sense of humor. She loved life: family, friends, children, pets, nature, art, music, and travels with her family. She found wonder and joy in wordplay, poetry, song, and the view out her back window.”
Janet attended Westport schools, then graduated in 1944 from the Thomas School in Rowayton.
As a student at Bedford Elementary, she was one of several children chosen by WPA artist Robert Lambdin to pose for the 3-part mural, “The Spirit of Adventure” that still hangs outside the auditorium of what is now Town Hall. Janet holds a tennis racquet on the right.
After Black Mountain College in North Carolina, she became the society editor of the Westport Town Crier.
She left in 1948 to join an American Youth Hostel group in the Netherlands, repairing roads bombed in World War II.
Following her marriage in 1948 to Robert Jonathan Aley, Janet worked for 7 years in the promotion merchandising department at Look Magazine. She refused the job of department head in favor of motherhood. The family moved to Westport in 1960.
Janet volunteered for or served on the boards of many organizations, including PTAs, Intercommunity Camp, the Interfaith Housing Program, the Arts Council, and the Westport-Weston Counseling Service, primarily in producing publicity and newsletters. For many years, she also volunteered with the oral history program of the Westport Historical Society.
After her husband died suddenly in 1974, Janet returned to work — first in the selectman’s office, then in the Planning & Zoning Department. From 1983 to ’88 she was an assistant town clerk and secretary for the Planning & Zoning Commission in Weston.
She retired in 1988 and joined the Democratic Women of Westport, where she was co-president. She received the organization’s Silver Donkey Award, and regularly rode with DWW in the Memorial Day Parade.
Janet is survived by her children Jennifer Aley (Steve Gold), Judith Aley, Judson (Maria Cheung) and Jonathan (Ellen Louer); grandchildren Nathanael Jonathan Ranson, Ruby Alice Ranson and Dylan Tam (Alex McClaren).
In addition to her husband, she was pre-deceased by her daughter Judy’s husband Paul Ranson, and her brother Charles Harvey Ramsey.
Services will be held September 21 (Saugatuck Congregational Church, 1:30 p.m). Donations in Janet’s name can be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, Homes with Hope or PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Society).
And finally … Otis Redding was born on this day, in 1941. He died in a plane crash just 26 years later.
The Macon, Georgia native quit school at 15 to support his family, working with Little Richard’s band. Over the next decade he became an international star.
But his biggest fame came after his death.
(“Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” became the first posthumous #1 record on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. He then received many other honors, including 2 Grammys, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame,[5] and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
(Since 2009 — without missing a day — “06880” has been your hyper-local source for news, information, features, photos and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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An osprey became snared in a braided cotton line, on top of a piling off Saugatuck Shores.
A Fire Department crew from Engine Company 4 arrived, with a ladder. Lieutenant Joe Arnson held it, as Animal Control Officer Peter Reid climbed up to cut the line off the raptor’s talons.
Arnson then released the handsome bird, who flew off, once again free.
After the rescue, the line was removed from the piling.
Osprey rescue underway. (Screenshot courtesy of Julie Loparo)
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The September issue of The Atlantic features a compelling story.
“Seventy Miles in Hell” recounts the harrowing 70-mile journey that nearly a million people have made in the past several years through the Darién Gap, from Colombia into Panama.
Men women and children come from Haiti, Ethiopia, India, Congo, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Venezuela, heading north across the only strip of land that connects South America to Central America, hoping they live long enough to reach the US.
Writer Caitlin Dickerson made the trek herself, accompanied by photographer Lynsey Addario.
Those photos — from the 1991 Staples High School graduate who has won both Pulitzer Prizes and a MacArthur “genius” grant — add immeasurably to Dickerson’s powerful prose.
Migrants wait to board canoes, the next step in their journey. (Photo/Lynsey Addario, for The Atlantic)
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“The Greatest Showman” is being adapted for the stage.
The latest news from the songwriting team of Pasek & Paul — which includes Justin Paul, a 2003 Staples High School graduate — was highlighted at the D:23 fan festival in Anaheim.
Since COVID, many Westporters have discovered Sherwood Island.
(For those who haven’t: Connecticut’s first state park sits smack in the middle of our shoreline. It’s 238 acres of beaches, wetlands, woods, walking paths, a Nature Center — even a model airplane runway.)
Many Westporters also help keep the park shipshape, as volunteers with Friends of Sherwood Island.
They raise money in part through a great annual fundraiser. This year’s Shorefest is September 6 (6 to 9 p.m., Sherwood Island pavilion). It features dinner and a silent auction.
Dinner options include lobster, tenderloin, salmon or vegetarian, plus steamers, corn, salad and dessert ($100 before September 1; $120 after). A children’s menu ($15) includes hot dog or hamburger, corn, salad and dessert.
Click here for tickets, or send a check to Friends of Sherwood Island State Park, PO Box 544, Westport, CT 06881.
“Remi’s Run for Parker’s Cure” is a colorful community event, for a great cause.
The morning of fun, fitness and philanthropy is set for Sunday, August 25 (10 a.m. to noon, PJ Romano Field track).
The color run is part of Remi Rutstein’s bat mitzvah project. It’s dedicated to her cousin Parker, who is battling a rare genetic brain disorder known as HIST1H1E.
Participants — grouped by age — will run or walk around the track, while being splashed with colorful, non-toxic powders. By the end of the run, everyone is a living rainbow.
The fun also includes breakfast from Lyfe Café, a candy truck, sports and games, tattoos, a DJ, and plenty of surprises.
Remi says the event is a way for Westporters to come together and celebrate Parker, raise awareness, and contribute to the search for a cure.
The event is free, but donations are welcome. Click here to register, and for more information and contributions.
And finally … in honor of the definitive answer to Westport’s highest point (story above):
(“06880” kicks off a new week, with another Roundup chock full of events, news you can use, and random factoids. If you enjoy this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
You don’t have to be a soccer fan to love “Welcome to Wrexham.”
The Emmy-winning FX series chronicles actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s ownership of a floundering football club, in a seen-better-days Welsh town.
It covers the ups and downs as the team strives for promotion to higher leagues. But it also tackles topics like autism, gay parents, the insecurities of athletes, the financial burdens of sports franchises, the meaning of community, the importance of tradition, the fragility of life, and much more.
Through it all, the actor/owners have fun. On each other’s birthday, for example, Reynolds and McElhanney try to outdo each other with creative pranks.
Season 3 is currently airing. In episode 4, Reynolds (star of the very successful “Deadpool” franchise) plans a musical video tribute to McElhanney (“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”), keyed to his often-mispronounced last name.
As the video began, I though, “Cute!”
As it continued — with clever lyrics, a catchy melody and first-class choreography, filmed in bars, the Wrexham stadium and other sites — I realized, “Whoa! Ryan Reynolds really put a lot of time and effort into this.”
Then came the reveal: The song was written by Justin Paul and Benj Pasek.
I should have known.
They’re the songwriting duo responsible for (among others) “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.”
And Justin Paul is a 2003 graduate of Staples High School.
Justin Paul and Benj Pasek, at the Golden Globe Awards. They’ve also won Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards. (Photo/Paul Drinkwater NBC)
“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” Including Wrexham.
So I asked Justin for the back story.
A couple of years ago, he said, he and Benj were working on “Spirited,” an Apple TV+ Christmas comedy starring Reynolds and Will Ferrell.
Justin and Benj were living in London. Reynolds invited them to Wembley Stadium, where Wrexham faced Bromley in the FA Trophy finals. The match would decide the winners of the tournament for clubs in levels 5-8 of the English National League system.
Yes, that’s pretty low. Playing at the most storied stadium in Britain was a Very Big Deal. (Spoiler alert: Wrexham lost, 1-0.)
“We had to sign a release to get into the owner’s box,” Justin recalls. “That was strange.”
Then he saw a film crew. He learned that Reynolds was working on a documentary about the club he owned.
“David Beckham was sitting next to Ryan in the box,” Justin says. “I have no idea what they were talking about, but it was pretty cool.”
Ryan Reynolds and David Beckham
Justin became a fan of the Wrexham team — and, once the series aired, of Reynolds’ show.
He and Reynolds stayed in touch. One day, Reynolds asked Justin for a favor. He wanted to create a music video, for McElhanney’s birthday.
“It was the most random assignment. But it was so much fun,” Justin says.
“This was right in the spirit of Ryan Reynolds: bringing people together under the umbrella of joy. It was poking fun of Rob, but also himself.”
From New York to Hollywood and Wrexham, Justin Paul has not forgotten his Westport roots. Last spring, he met with Staples Players — the group he once acted in — prior to their production of Pasek & Paul’s “James and the Giant Peach.” (Photo/Kerry Long)
Coming up with ideas for the song was fun too. “There was plenty of good, bad and inappropriate stuff,” Justin notes.
They included references to the Racecourse (Wrexham’s stadium, the oldest one in the world still hosting international matches) and The Turf (a pub that plays a prominent role in the documentary).
“It’s a love letter to the club — while making fun of Rob at the same time,” Justin says.
“And Ryan’s feelings come through too: ‘I paid a bunch of money to write a song and video to you, because I love you so much.’ He lives life with joy, humor and self-deprecation.”
There was a bonus for Justin and Benj: They cast many of their actor/dancer friends in the video.
Screenshot from the”McElhanney” video.
It was shot primarily in a New York bar, as well as Wrexham. (There’s a quick cameo of Justin playing piano, which I missed the first time around.)
“Ryan went way above and beyond for this video,” Justin says. “He knew how ridiculous it was. That’s who he is.”
Rob McElhanney was “very surprised” by the song and video, Justin adds.
Many of Justin and Benj’s projects take a long time, from conception to completion. “Dear Evan Hansen,” for example, made it to Broadway after 7 years — “and that’s relatively short.”
Working on the “McElhanney” song was “fun, down and dirty — and quick,” Justin says.
“We created it, shot it, then sent it out to the world in a really short time.”
Wrexham fans loved it.
And now they know how to pronounce “McElhanney.”
Click below, and you will too:
(Welcome to Wrexham — and “06880.” If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The other day, Playbill ran a story about “Broadway Senior.”
The program — a counterpart to Broadway Junior, which adapts and licenses shows for middle schools, in age-appropriate ways — offers opportunities for people 60 and older to perform shows like “Guys and Dolls” and “Into the Woods.”
Why do they need to be adapted? In some cases, references to youth don’t work for older actors. Other times, they can’t exactly sing and dance as if they were 20.
The article — highlighting a production at Lenox Hill Neighborhood House in Manhattan — was moderately interesting. (Best line: “This is a ‘Guys and Dolls’ where, if you need help standing back up after sitting down and rockin’ the boat, a stage manager will be there to assist.” (Click here to read the full piece.)
But what caught my eye, in a Facebook post about the show, was that it was directed by Isabel Perry.
Isabel Perry
A 2015 graduate of Staples High School, where she was a key member of the Players drama troupe, she’s now a Brooklyn-based director of theatre and film. She has worked at La MaMa, Lucille Lortel, Lincoln Center and Second Stage.
Isabel is also a script reader for The Playwrights Realm, a member of Roundabout Director Group, and an instructor at The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. At Northwestern University she studied theatre and Asian American studies, and directed “The Dolphin Show,” the largest entirely student-produced theatrical production in the country.
Which got me thinking: What are other Staples alums doing, in the entertainment world?
Plenty.
Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long keep close tabs on their grads. Here is a partial — but very wide-ranging — list of what their (and our) “kids” are up to.
(We apologize in advance for any names we’ve omitted. Click “Comments” to add other great Players’ alumni achievements.)
Justin Paul (Class of 2003) got an Emmy nomination for his music in “Only Murders in the Building.”
In addition, Justin and Caley Beretta (2010) spent the past 3 weeks in London workshopping a new musical.
Justin Paul has not forgotten his Staples Players roots. In March, he joined directors Kerry Long and David Roth to discuss “James and the Giant Peach” — a show he co-wrote — prior to Players’ production of it. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Whitney Andrews(2010) graduated from the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University, with an MFA in acting.
Clay Singer (2013) is playing Perchik in “Fiddler on the Roof” at The Muny in St. Louis.
Samuel Adelmann (2014) is also playing Perchik, in a different production of “Fiddler on the Roof”: at Valley Opera and Performing Arts in California.
Christian Melhuish (2016) is in “Legally Blonde” at the John W. Engeman Theatre at Northport, New York.
Jack Baylis(2015) is playing Warner in “Legally Blonde” at Theatre Aspen.
Zoe Mezoff (2017) is playing Hodel in “Fiddler on the Roof” at the Lexington Theatre Company in Kentucky.
Nick Rossi (2019) is performing in “Jersey Boys” and “La Cage Aux Folles” at the Lake Winnipesaukee Playhouse.
Georgia Wright (2019) played a show of her songs at the Brooklyn Music Kitchen. She was booked for the gig by talent agent Cara McNiff (2014),
Sophie Rossman (2021) is studying at NYU Tisch’s International Theatre Workshop in Amsterdam.
Cameron Mann (2024) starred in the movie “Greg’s Going to Rehab,” shot in St. Louis in June.
This is not Cameron Mann’s real hair. Then again, is not in rehab in real life, either.
Cooper Sadler (2024): in the ensemble of “Mary Poppins” at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan.
As for Players co-director Kerry Long — a 1997 Staples grad — she and Players set designer Jordan Janota worked on the film “Miracle on 74th Street.” It was shot in Manhattan in June.
(“06880” is proud to cover the accomplishments of Staples graduates — and everyone else in Westport — in every area of life. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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