Tag Archives: Staples Players

Staples Player Rewind: “Mamma Mia!”

Posted on November 10, 2026 | Leave a comment

On Friday, the curtain rises on Staples Players’ fall production: “Bye Bye Birdie.”

Seven years ago they staged another popular musical, with a pop music theme. “Mamma Mia!” was directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s high-energy, very fun take on the Broadway show that ran for 14 years.

Click here or below to see this highlight reel, produced by former media instructor Jim Honeycutt. You will definitely be “having the time of your life!”

Here’s what cast members are up to today.

Camille Foisie (Donna Sheridan) graduated from New York University Tisch School of the Arts, with a BFA in drama. She is working professionally as an actor.

Sammy Guthartz (Bill Austin) is an actor and producer. He graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in theatre performance from the University of Michigan. He has roles and production credits in “The Diary of Aaron Stanford” and “The Midnight World.”

Colin Konstanty (Sky) is an actor and musician. He appeared in the Off-Broadway and Disney+ productions of “Trevor: The Musical.” An alumnus of the NYU Tisch School of the Arts, he has also appeared in projects like “Caravan,” and released original music.

Jamie Mann (Sky) graduated from the University of Michigan’s musical theater program in 2025. He made his Broadway debut in “Stranger Things: The First Shadow.” He appeared previously on the Netflix show “Country Comfort,” and toured nationally as the lead in “Billy Elliot.”

Benny Zack (Pepper, Featured Male Dancer) is an actor and filmmaker who graduated from Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts. He had roles in “Murder in Maplewood,” “Building Eden” and “The Awakening of Edwin Lorde.”

Annabel Kavetas (Lisa) is an entertainment, production and beauty professional who has worked in digital media, audience coordination and television production. She has been involved with “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

Bridget Looby (Jess, Björn Ensemble) graduated from Colgate with a degree in political science and government. She is an assistant account executive in New York..

Macey Lavoie (Jess, Björn Ensemble) is a firefighter in Montana. She graduated from James Madison University.

Kelley Schutte (Ali) is an interior designer, artist and performer. She operates an independent design and landscape painting practice in the Westport area.

Tomaso Scotti (Eddie Featured Male Dancer, Björn Ensemble) is an actor. He performed in “Another Day of Sun.”

Owen Keaveney (Corey) graduated with a degree in bioengineering. He is a research technician at Mass General Hospital Brigham in Boston.

Ryan Porio (Featured Male Dancer, Björn Ensemble) is an actor, filmmaker and musician. He graduated from the Emerson College School of Film, where he collaborated on short films and experimental media.

Sophia Betit (Frida Ensemble, Björn Ensemble) is an actor and vocalist. She has also worked as a crew co-manager for theater sets.

Chloe Manna (Frida Ensemble, Björn Ensemble) is a stage and screen actress. Her credits include “Peace, Love and Cupcakes: The Musical” at the New York Musical Festival.

Melody Stanger (Frida Ensemble, Björn Ensemble) is an actress and model based in New York.

Feven Alemu-Renzulli (Björn Ensemble) graduated with a bachelor of science in law and policy (pre-law) from Liberty University. She serves as a staff member for the Regent Law Moot Court at Regent University School of Law.

Lulu Dalzel (Björn Ensemble) is a filmmaker, writer and scenic designer. She graduated with a BFA in film and video production from Emerson College and specializes  in production design, screenwriting, and art direction.

Emily Desser (Björn Ensemble) is an actress, writer and NYU Tisch Drama student. She worked on “Murder in Maplewood” and “Love’s Labour’s Lost.”

Madelyn Spera (Björn Ensemble)  is a singer-songwriter, musician and stage actor based in New York City. She has performed at The Bitter End, and was a finalist in New York University’s Ultra Violet Live talent competition. Her debut release is “Dying to Know.”

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Staples Players Rewind: “Back To The ’80s”

Posted on November 3, 2026 | Leave a comment

A jukebox musical is perfect summer entertainment.

In 2019, Staples Players presented “Back to the ’80s.” The show featured pop tunes — and a rap song from the musical’s writer Neil Gooding. It was directed by David Roth and Kerry Long.

Click here or below to enjoy Jim Honeycutt’s highlight reel.

Here’s what some cast members are up to, 6 years later:

Mia Kobylinski (Tiffany Houston) is a designer at Snake River Interiors. Her love of travel and photography help her gather design inspiration from all over the world.

Nick Rossi (Michael Feldman) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Sam Mandelbaum (Billy Arnold) is an actor and writer working in independent films and creative projects, including “Dinner Date,” “The Awakening of Edwin Lorde” and “Pinky.”

Georgia Wright (Debbie Fox) is a non-binary, New York-based emerging playwright, actor and director. They have written and staged several independent and festival plays.

Bridget Looby (Laura Wilde, Ensemble) graduated from Colgate with a degree in political science and government. She is an assistant account executive in New York..

Daisy Brackett (Ms. Sheena Brannigan) earned a master’s degree in advanced classical acting training from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Her credits include short films, independent projects, showcases and reels.

Camille Foisie (Cyndi Gibson, Ensemble) graduated from New York University Tisch School of the Arts, with a BFA in drama. She is working professionally as an actor.

Colin Konstanty (Huey Jackson) is an actor and musician. He appeared in the Off-Broadway and Disney+ productions of “Trevor: The Musical.” An alumnus of the NYU Tisch School of the Arts, he has also appeared in projects like “Caravan,” and released original music.

Ryan Porio (“Jitterbug” and “Love Shack” soloist) is an actor, filmmaker and musician. He graduated from the Emerson College School of Film, where he collaborated on short films and experimental media.

Emily Desser (The “Go Go” Trio, Ensemble) is an actress, writer and NYU Tisch Drama student. She worked on “Murder in Maplewood” and “Love’s Labour’s Lost.”

Chloe Manna (The “Go Go” Trio) is a stage and screen actress. Her credits include “Peace, Love and Cupcakes: The Musical” at the New York Musical Festival.

Max Ardrey (Ensemble)) is an actor, writer and media arts production student at Emerson College.

Ellery Bodell (Ensemble) is a singer/songwriter and performing arts student, who has performed in local short films and theater projects. Professionally active under the name Echo Bodell, they studied performing arts at SCAD and trained with Cynthia Gibb’s Triple Threat Academy.

Melody Stanger (Ensemble) is an actress and model based in New York.

Max Evans (Ensemble) is a director, actor, stage manager and administrator. He is playing Roy in “The Odd Couple: at The Legacy Theatre in Branford.

Annabel Kavetas (Ensemble) is an entertainment, production and beauty professional who has worked in digital media, audience coordination and television production. She has been involved with “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

Juliette Schwebel (Ensemble) graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2023. After the theater, she transitioned into a career in elementary education.

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Staples Players Rewind: “Working”

Posted on October 13, 2026 | 1 comment

In the summer of 2017, Staples Players presented “Working.”

It was a different type of musical. But — as usual — the high school troupe crushed it.

Click here or below for directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s show. Thanks to Jim Honeycutt, former media teacher, for producing this highlight reel.

What are those actors up to today?

Jacob Leaf (Mike Dillard, ironworker; Joe Zutty, retired) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.

Remy Laifer (Al Calinda, parking lot attendant; Roberto Nunez, boxboy and migrant worker; Eddie Jaffe, publicist) is a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”

Christian Melhuish (Rex Winship, hedgefund manager; Utkarsh Trajillo, caregiver) is a singer, actor and dancer in New York. After graduating from Temple University with a BFA in musical theater, Christian has performed regionally around the country. Credits include Jesus (“Godspell”), Romeo (“Romeo & Juliet”) and Bob Gaudio (“Jersey Boys”). He has also performed Off-Broadway and in cabarets and staged readings.

Mia Kobylinski (Marjorie Levin, worker in cubicle) is a designer at Snake River Interiors. Her love of travel and photography help her gather design inspiration from all over the world.

Sophia Sherman (worker in cubicle) studied acting and performing arts management at the University of Michigan. Based in Los Angeles, Sophia has focused on screen acting.

Chad Celini (fast food worker) is an actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”

Nick Rossi (fast food worker; “Mason” soloist) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Jake Watzman (John Rolfin, newsboy) is a voice actor and theatre performer. He graduated with a BA in theatre from Muhlenberg College. He is recognized for his work in indie animation, visual novels, and voiceover projects.

Georgia Wright (Babe Secoli, supermarket checker) is a non-binary, New York-based emerging playwright, actor and director. They have written and staged several independent and festival plays,

Lexi Holoubek-Sebok (Candy Cottingham, political fundraiser) transitioned from acting into professional marketing and data analysis, working as a community strategy and intelligence analyst at Burson.

Avery Mendillo (Grace Clements, millworker; Jean Gilbert, cleaning woman) is a New York–based actor and singer with roots in musical theatre, and a career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.

Antonio Antonelli (Anthony Coelho, stone mason) is an actor and crew member. He voiced the character Shane in “Santaman,” an appeared as Wes in “Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow.”

Jackie Rhoads (Terry Mason, flight attendant) is a filmmaker, actor, writer and producer, who studied film at Vanderbilt University. She creates and stars in videos on her YouTube channel, which has over 20,000 subscribers, and supports the development team at Fivestone Studios, a production company based in Nashville.

Sophia Sherman (Joyce Naruda, interstate trucker) studied acting and performing arts management at the University of Michigan. Based in Los Angeles, Sophia has focused on screen acting.

Payton Spandow (Lucy Long, actress) earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Cornell University, and was a member of the sketch comedy group The Skits. She is now a college planning advisor in Rocky Hill.

Samantha Chachra (Theresa Liu, nanny) is a New York-based actress, singer-songwriter and cellist. She earned a BFA in drama from the NYU Tisch School of the Arts, after training at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting and Stonestreet Studios.

Daisy Brackett (Maggie Holmes, cleaning woman) earned a master’s degree in advanced classical acting training from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Her credits include short films, independent projects, showcases and reels.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Searching For Scott Taylor

Posted on October 12, 2026 | 4 comments

Owen Taylor writes:

“I am looking for anyone who knew my uncle Scott Taylor (1951-1993). I’d love to know more about his life.

“He was the oldest of 3 boys in Westport, on Oak Ridge Park. Scott was in Staples Players, and graduated with the class of 1969 before studying acting at the Boston University College of Fine Arts. He had a boyfriend there named John Smith.

Scott Taylor, in the 1969 Staples yearbook.

“Scott moved back to Westport in his early 20s. He acted and wrote for theatre in Boston, New York, California and Pennsylvania.

 

“I was just 12 when he died in 1993 of complications due to AIDS. I have sweet memories of visiting my softspoken uncle who gave my sister and me nice gifts at Christmas, and showed us his sketchbooks and his poster-sized collages made from National Geographics that he’d sell on the street.

“He was my only reference for a real life gay person (besides the very limited representation on TV in the early ’90s).

“When Scott died I received his childhood comic book collection. I decorated my bedroom with his collages, wooden masks, a beautiful woven bedspread, and his potted dragon tree. I was surrounded by his ephemera for years.

“I came out of the closet at 19. I often wonder what it would be like if my uncle had lived to be a part of my life.

Scott Taylor

“Ten years later, I found more of Scott’s boxes in my dad’s garage. Most were water damaged and headed for the dump, but I discovered a typewritten poem he made at age 23 in 1974.

“I set the poem to music, and recorded it for my family to listen to. While I work as a seed farmer and farm educator at Truelove Seeds in Philadelphia, I also make music on the side in a band called My Gay Banjo, and on my own.

“It felt wonderful to honor him by making a collage of his art and mine, and collaborating across time, space, life, and afterlife. Click here to listen to the song, called “I Don’t Like To.” 

Please help my sister, my family and me learn more about my uncle, if you knew him. You can contact me at owenstaylor@gmail.com.

Scott Taylor, with Owen and his sister.

PS. Some branches of my family tree go back generations in Westport, including the Edmond Curtis Smiths (4 generations) on my mom’s side, and Michael and Rose (Laurella) Vigilante and their daughters Ann and Rita on my dad’s side.

My great-grandfather Michael Vigilante was a sheriff in Westport, involved in real estate, and served as president of the St. Anthony Society for Italians. His wife Rose was on the women’s Republican committee, and cooked for years for the Westport Playhouse (long before my mom’s family ran the Players Tavern).

I’m interested in these stories as well, if anyone has anything to share.

(“06880” is honored to bring Westport’s diverse community together — wherever our readers are. If you appreciate what we do, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Staples Players Rewind: “Urinetown”

Posted on October 6, 2026 | Leave a comment

Sure, Staples Players performed “Urinetown” a few months ago.

But they also staged it in the spring of 2017.

That’s the version we’re posting today. Thanks to Jim Honeycutt, former media teacher, for compiling the highlights of directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s show. Click here or below to see.

What have cast members been up to in the 9 years since?

Avery Mendillo (Penelope Pennwise) is a New York–based actor and singer with roots in musical theatre, and a career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.

Remy Laifer (Bobby Strong)  is a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”

Jacob Leaf (Officer Lockstock) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.

Zoe Samuels (Hope Cladwell, UGG Secretary) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.

Antonio Antonelli (Hot Blades Harry, Wiley Fred) is an actor and crew member. He voiced the character Shane in “Santaman,” an appeared as Wes in “Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow.”

Colin McKechnie (Tiny Tom) is part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”

Brooke Wrubel (Little Becky Two Shoes, Hidalgo Jane) is a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University specializing in Early Christian, Byzantine and Western Medieval Art, with a focus on the development of pilgrimage shrines across Italy, Greece and the Holy Land. She holds a BA in art history and Italian studies from Bowdoin College, and an MA in the history of art from the University of Pennsylvania.

Sophia Sherman (Josephine Strong, Tawny Tess) studied acting and performing arts management at the University of Michigan. Based in Los Angeles, Sophia has focused on screen acting.

Chad Celini (Shem the Shameless) is an actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”

Nick Rossi (Otto the Spoon) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Jackie Rhoads  (Mrs. Millennium, UGG Secretary) is a filmmaker, actor, writer and producer, who studied film at Vanderbilt University. She creates and stars in videos on her YouTube channel, which has over 20,000 subscribers, and supports the development team at Fivestone Studios, a production company based in Nashville.

Mikayla Czizik (Nurse Clackett) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School.  She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut

Mia Kobylinski (UGG Secretary) is a performer and creative visual artist. She is also a professional visual artist and filmmaker under her brand MAK Filmworks, capturing film photography and media content across the West.

Jake Watzman (Ensemble, the Poor) is a voice actor and theatre performer. He graduated with a BA in theatre from Muhlenberg College. He is recognized for his work in indie animation, visual novels, and voiceover projects.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Bridge To Bridge Ride, Peter Duchan’s Variety, Club203’s Halloween …

Posted on October 4, 2026 | Leave a comment

Last year, Walk Bike Westport sponsored a fall “Bridge to Bridge” walk.

Dozens of residents and politicians — hey, it was the height of campaign season — strolled from Jesup Green, over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, to Saugatuck.

They passed the Cribari Bridge, and had breakfast at Kneads.

The “Bridge to Bridge” event returns Sunday, October 18 — this time on wheels.

It begins at 3:30 p.m. with a bike safety talk. Then comes a 3-mile ride to Saugatuck, and back. Everyone ages 8 and up is welcome. Helmets are required.

To learn more and register, click here. To volunteer, click here.

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Congratulations to Peter Duchan!

The 2001 Staples High School graduate has just been named to Variety’s 2026 edition of its annual “10 Broadway Stars to Watch.”

Variety says: “Years ago, Duchan was warned not to expect success as a librettist until he was in his 40s: ‘I’ve always understood this career as something of an endurance test.’

“At 43, he’s making his Broadway debut with ‘Purple Rain,’ the stage version of the classic Prince album and film, about the rise of a tormented young musician known as the Kid. Duchan’s big break comes more than a decade after he emerged on the New York theater scene with 2012’s Off Broadway musical “Dogfight,” based on the 1991 movie starring River Phoenix. [Co-written by former Staples Player and friend Justin Paul.]

“’We’re trying to honor what’s singular about Prince while crafting a fictional character separate from him,’” Duchan says.

“An adept multitasker (and an expert at translating from screen to stage), Duchan is working on another major musical adaptation, ‘Practical Magic,’ based on the 1998 fantasy comedy starring Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock as witchy sisters.

“’These are just the two you know about!’ Duchan teases. ‘I spend all day, every day, thinking about musical-theater storytelling. If I haven’t clocked my 10,000 hours yet, I’ve gotta be pretty close.’”

Click here for the full Variety story.

Peter Duchan

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After yesterday’s very active afternoon — including the Slice of Saugatuck, Westoberfest and Earthplace’s Fall Festival — the action continued at night.

The Westport Country Playhouse celebrated 95 years of entertainment with a high-energy gala.

From “Hamilton,” “Shrinking” and “The Wonder Years” to our own Kelli O’Hara and James Naughton, the stars were out in force.

The pre- and post-parties were off the charts too.

Gala performers (from left): Santino Fontana, Kelli O’Hara, James Naughton, Wendie Malick, NaTasha Yvetter Williams, Tamar Greene, Javier Muñoz, Patty McCormack, Dan Lauria. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of last night’s performers: Wendie Malick is having a Westport moment.

The “Shrinking” star — among many other credits — night only joined a star-studded cast last night, at the Playhouse gala.

Tomorrow night, she’s featured in the Script in Hand reading of “Portrait of a Woman in Repose.”

Amid all that, she chatted with Westport journalist Dave Briggs, for an Instagram reel.

“Storytelling is more important than ever,” Wendie says. “It heals our souls.”

For the full conversation — including more on the importance of the Playhouse — click here.

Wendie Malick

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Club203 is calling all ghosts, goblins, witches and superheroes.
Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities celebrates Halloween with”Boo Bingo” October 14 (6:30 to 8 p.m., Senior Center).
Costumes are encouraged. They’ll provide hats, wigs, masks and more for photos too.

The menu includes We’ll Halloween bites and candy, pumpkin clementines, purple witches’ brew, and cookies made by Avery Horne.

Club 203’s friends from MoCA\CT will help Avery lead a festive bag decorating activity. Master bingo caller Doug Brill will lead the games.

For more information and to register, click here.

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Westport Pride — the town’s non-profit dedicated to creating an affirming, supportive LGBTQ+ community — “proudly” announces a leadership transition.

Liz Falk takes over as president; Kate Grodd is vice president. Brian McGunagle moves into the role of president emeritus.

McGunagle founded Westport Pride in 2020. Under his leadership the organization established the annual Westport Pride celebration, built partnerships with Westport’s public schools, and helped bring the town’s rainbow crosswalk to life.

He is stepping back from day-to-day leadership to focus on his family and new business ventures. He will also take a more active role in his sons’ PTA.

Falk has served on the Westport Pride board as treasurer. She has a background in non-profit and for-profit management and consulting, and has started and run small businesses.

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The Staples boys soccer silent auction is halfway to its fundraising goal. Plenty of items are still available.

Among the highlights: Stowe and Okemo stays, Yankees tickets and memorabilia, performance training sessions, college consulting, wellness packages, and private soccer clinics with varsity players. (Who, by the way, are 9-0-0 so far this season.)

Proceeds help fund coaches, fields, equipment and other resources that keep the program running.

Click here to bid. The auction closes Tuesday, at 6 p.m.

A Staples celebration. They’ll celebrate again if you bid on an auction item. (Photo/Paolo Caniato)

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With October 1 past, we’ve posted a couple of cute photos of dogs back on Compo Beach.

Here’s one more. This one has an important message.

As Spider-Man wisely says: “With great power comes great responsibility.”

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

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Yesterday’s “Westport … Naturally” photo showed fungus.

Today we turn to lichen (“or some such stuff,” photographer Mark Mathias notes).

He spotted this in the woods behind Saugatuck Congregational Church:

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … congratulations again to Peter Duchan (story above).

(Prince’s video has nearly 300 million views. We can’t match that at “06880.” Then again, we are a hyper-local blog. We’re here for you. If you enjoy our niche work, please click here to support it. Thanks!)

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Staples Players Rewind: “The Music Man”

Posted on September 29, 2026 | 2 comments

Big, bold, brassy — and filled with talented, energetic actors — “The Music Man” marched onto the Staples High School stage in the fall of 2016.

Ten years later, former media teacher Jim Honeycutt has turned directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s musical production into a highlight reel.

Click here or below, to tootle along with this classic show.

What have some of those stars gone on to do, over the past decade?

Jacob Leaf (Professor Harold Hill) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.

Sophia Sherman (Mrs. Paroo) studied acting and performing arts management at the University of Michigan. Based in Los Angeles, Sophia has focused on screen acting.

Brooke Wrubel (Mrs. Paroo) is a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University specializing in Early Christian, Byzantine and Western Medieval Art, with a focus on the development of pilgrimage shrines across Italy, Greece and the Holy Land. She holds a BA in art history and Italian studies from Bowdoin College, and an MA in the history of art from the University of Pennsylvania.

Antonio Antonelli (Mayor Shinn) is an actor and crew member. He voiced the character Shane in “Santaman,” an appeared as Wes in “Maybe Today, Maybe Tomorrow.”

Zoe Samuels (Eulalie Shinn, Pick-A-Little Lady Shirley Mason) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.

Colin McKechnie (Tommy Djilas) is part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”

Mikayla Czizik (Zaneeta Shin) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School.  She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut.

Avery Mendillo (Pick-A-Little Lady Ethel Toffelmeier) is a New York–based actor and singer with roots in musical theatre, and a career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.

Jackie Rhoads (Pick-A-Little Lady Sadie Hawthorne) is a filmmaker, actor, writer and producer, who studied film at Vanderbilt University. She creates and stars in videos on her YouTube channel, which has over 20,000 subscribers, and supports the development team at Fivestone Studios, a production company based in Nashville.

Sydney Carlson (Pick-A-Little Lady Avis Grub) is an actress, model and internet personality known for her work in “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies,” and as co-founder of the phone-case brand Wildflower Cases.

Cooper Gusick (Winthrop Paroo) gained early attention for his viral cover of “Waving Through a Window” from “Dear Evan Hansen,” at 8 years old. He appeared in local modeling and performance features as a child.

Ari Frimmer (Winthrop Paroo) is a Connecticut-based actor known for local regional and school productions.

Nick Rossi (Clayton Squires) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Cameron Mann (Edwin Squires) delivered a powerful, breakout performance as Ryan Ross in “Mare of Easttown,” playing a central role alongside Kate Winslet, and a pivotal role in the star-studded dark comedy “Eddington.”

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Staples Players Rewind: “The Drowsy Chaperone”

Posted on September 22, 2026 | 1 comment

Our series of Staples Players’ highlight reels continues with the spring 2016 production of “The Drowsy Chaperone.”

The farce parodying 1920 American musical comedy was a different show for directors David Roth and Kerry Long.

Of course, it was a smash.

As always, this nutshell comes courtesy of former Staples media instructor Jim Honeycutt. Click here or below to see.

In the decade since, many actors have gone on to successful careers, both onstage and off. For example:

Christian Melhuish (Robert Martin) is a singer, actor and dancer in New York. After graduating from Temple University with a BFA in musical theater, Christian has performed regionally around the country. Credits include Jesus (“Godspell”), Romeo (“Romeo & Juliet”) and Bob Gaudio (“Jersey Boys”). He has also performed Off-Broadway and in cabarets and staged readings.

Keanan Pucci (Robert Martin, Butler) graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, contributing to virtual production pipelines and visual development for projects like Netflix’s “Escape from Hat.” His film credits include “An Inconsistent Story in Stealing. Click here for a showcase of his interactive and 3D work.

Colin McKechnie (George) is part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”

Remy Laifer (Feldzeig) is a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”

Wellington Baumann (Feldzeig) is a litigation associate at Fried Frank in New York City. focusing on white collar criminal defense, commercial disputes and real estate litigation. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and the Washington & Lee University School of Law.

Julia Mandelbaum (Kitty) graduated from Rider University. She performed professionally in “Evita,” “Singing in the Rain,” and more

Jimmy Ray Stagg (Gangster #2) is a sketch writer and performer associated with The Second City. He also performs with the independent comedy group Penny For Your Intrusive Thoughts.

Jacob Leaf (Adolpho)  is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.

Caroline Didelot (Janet Van De Graff) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.

Jordan Goodness (The Drowsy Chaperone) is an SEO manager. Her specialties include writing, content marketing, keyword research, data analysis and technical SEO.

Mackenzie Lavoie (Reporters, Maid)earned a bachelor of science in arts administration, combined arts and a minor in film and media studies at Wagner College. She is a communications and PR professional specializing in strategic storytelling, media relations and brand positioning.

Nick Ribolla (Gangster #1) is an actor and archival producer known for his work on documentary-style and short film projects including “The Janes,” “Love & Stuff” and “Maybe Next Time.”

Daniel Pauker (Superintendent, Butler) is a technical animator. He has a passion for 3D software and systems.

Mikayla Czizik (Bridesmaid) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School.  She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut.

Mia Kobylinski (Bridesmaid) is a designer at Snake River Interiors. Her love of travel and photography help her gather design inspiration from all over the world.

Zoe Samuels (Bridesmaid) (Bridesmaid) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.

Chad Celini (Butler) is an actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”

Samantha Medina Chachra (The Drowsy Chaperone) is a New York City-based actress, singer-songwriter, and cellist. She incorporates her cello skills into producing pop and corporate music tracks.

Nick Rossi (Butler) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Avery Mendillo (Maid) is a New York–based actor and singer with roots in musical theatre, and a career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.

Jackie Rhoads (Maid) is a filmmaker, actor, writer and producer, who studied film at Vanderbilt University. She creates and stars in videos on her YouTube channel, which has over 20,000 subscribers, and supports the development team at Fivestone Studios, a production company based in Nashville.

Zoe Fox (Trix the Aviatrix) has extensive acting experience, ranging from “Grease” and “Hello Dolly!” to Shakespeare.

Brooke Wrubel (Maid) is a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University specializing in Early Christian, Byzantine and Western Medieval Art, with a focus on the development of pilgrimage shrines across Italy, Greece and the Holy Land. She holds a BA in art history and Italian studies from Bowdoin College, and an MA in the history of art from the University of Pennsylvania.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Compo Parties, August Laska. Brian Keane …

Posted on September 21, 2026 | 7 comments

Last week, “06880” reported on a new trend: massive parties at Compo Beach, outside the homes along Soundview Drive. Revelers appear to be primarily freshmen. That was the second in as many weekends.

The third week offered no reprieve.

A reader writes: “There was a mob scene of freshmen. I’m told by one of the town employees, who is trying to keep them under control along with a few cops, that there are 4 or 5 different schools having these insane parties at Compo. They are on people’s property, running around, leaving trash and drinking.

“It’s absolutely awful. Probably 300 kids.

“This is the third time, and probably the worst I have seen it this season.

“It’s a real problem. I couldn’t even walk the beach for over an hour.

“One Staples junior football player told me he tries to help out with the situation because the kids know him.

“The last time, I met a resident who was outside of her house not knowing what to do. She said all her windows were closed, and the noise was very disturbing.

“I’m all for kids having a good time, but this is out of control.”

Freshman party, 2 weekends ago.

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As a Staples Players actors, August Laska starred in a variety of shows, like “Guys and Dolls,” “Little. Shop of Horrors,” “West Side Story” and “A Chorus Line.”

He’s played many “roles” since then.

After graduating in 2013, August majored in film and media at Middlebury College.

While many classmates joined the “Middlebury to Goldman Sachs pipeline,” he headed to Los Angeles. He worked for Snapchat and loved the West Coast, but realized technology was not for him.

In 2018 August joined the marketing team at Disney Theatrical Productions.

Which all led to …opening a plant store.

August founded The Old Yew Plant Shop in the West Village in 2021. He now owns a second store too, on the Upper West Side.

August has earned renown for his ability to understand customers’ needs, educated them about both design (what plant goes where), and diagnostics (what happens when pests invade, or plants die).

Yesterday, the New York Times Real Estate section featured a long piece on August, and his magic touch with customers.

All those communication skills are certainly paying off. Particularly from “Little Shop of Horrors.” Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: John Dodig)

August Laska, at his Old Yew Plant Shop. (Photo/Ngoc Minh Ngo for New York Times)

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Ric Burns’ 2 new episodes of his sprawling, highly regard “New York” documentary film — the first in 23 years — air tonight and tomorrow on PBS (9 p.m.).

A 10-volume soundtrack was just released for streaming.

And there’s a great Westport connection.

Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Brian Keane composed that soundtrack.

But that’s not all. Brian spoke yesterday at the IFC Center in New York, at a tribute to Jane Goodall.

Brian scored the original chimps movie that helped put Goodall on the map in the 1980s, and also scored Ruby Yang’s film “Vanishing Song” about a gibbon in Malaysia. Goodall was collaborating on that documentary when she died.

Brian Keane (center) with Ric Burns (right) and Burns’ son Simon, at Keane’s studio. A newborn when “New York” came out in 1999, Simon is now assisting on his father’s 2 new episodes. A 10-volume complete soundtrack set of Keane’s score — one for each episode — is streaming on all platforms. 

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The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon (Thursday, September 24, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

VFW veterans’ benefits luncheon.

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In 2024, Lisa Bastoni sold out First Folk Sunday.

The Westport-native artist returns soon. She’ll do it again.

Rozanne Gates and Suzanne Sheridan, creators of First Folk Sunday, saw Bastoni perform in Northampton, Massachusetts — where she now lives — in 2023.

Impressed with her songwriting prowess, musicianship and connection to the audience, they invited her to Westport. Neither knew her roots.

Lisa told Rozanne, “I was just a kid, but I was at the anti-war rally you organized in 2001 on Jesup Green when Suzanne sang. I thought she was wonderful.”

On October 4 (12:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club), Lisa and Suzanne will sing together

Lisa wrote “There Are No Kings in America,” which has been sung nationally at many No Kings rallies. Suzanne Sheridan sang it in March, on Jesup Green.

Click here for tickets, and more information. Doors open at noon; an a la carte menu and open bar are available. Questions? Call 203-984-7562.

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StartUp Westport continues to expand its programming.

The town’s public/private partnership to serve entrepreneurs and innovators continued its “Founder Stories” series last week, at Content Studio in Saugatuck.

Amy Hochhauser and Rhodie Lorenz spoke with Julie Roehm about JoyRide. They went behind the scenes, offering insights into what it takes to build, grow and evolve a business — including unforeseen challenges like COVID.

Founded in Westport in 2010, JoyRide pioneered the local boutique fitness movement, expanding into a beloved regional brand across multiple studios in Connecticut and Texas. While the business ultimately closed its doors, its multi-year trajectory offers a master class in scaling, community building, making tough decisions, and navigating complex market shifts.

For more information on StartUp Westport, click here.

Amy Hochhauser, Rhodie Lorenz and Julie Roehm, at last week’s Startup Westport event.

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Tomorrow is the first day of fall.

And — right on time — our “Westport … Naturally” series presents this Wilton Road beauty:

(Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally … in honor of all who celebrate Yom Kippur:

(Another Monday … and another Roundup, to start it off. If you appreciate all the ways you can learn about Westport on this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Staples Players Rewind: “Fiddler On The Roof”

Posted on September 15, 2026 | 2 comments

In the fall of 2015, Staples Players staged another classic musical: “Fiddler on the Roof.”

It’s a challenging show: heavy themes, complex music, foreign cultures and accents.

As they always do, directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s high school troupes rose to the occasion.

And surpassed it.

Media instructor Jim Honeycutt taped the production. As he does each week now, he edited the 2 casts into 1 highlight reel. Click here or below to enjoy this great “tradition.”

Many cast members have gone on to great things, on and off the stage. Among them:

Jacob Leaf (Tevye) is a professional actor. He has appeared in “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Eurydice” and more.

Julia Mandelbaum (Tzeitel) graduated from Rider University. She performed professionally in “Evita,” “Singing in the Rain,” and more.

Caroline Didelot (Hodel) appeared in “Kinky Boots” at Baldwin Wallace University, “42nd Street” at New London Barn Playhouse, and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for Prime Video.

Zoe Samuels (Yente, the Matchmaker) is an associate strategy director at Edelman. She graduated with a degree in theater and Chinese from Middlebury College.

Jimmy Ray Stagg (Lazar Wolf, the butcher)  is a sketch writer and performer associated with The Second City. He also performs with the independent comedy group Penny For Your Intrusive Thoughts.

Wellington Baumann (Mordcha, the innkeeper) is a litigation associate at Fried Frank in New York City. focusing on white collar criminal defense, commercial disputes and real estate litigation. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and the Washington & Lee University School of Law.

Keanan Pucci (Appa) graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, contributing to virtual production pipelines and visual development for projects like Netflix’s “Escape from Hat.” His film credits include “An Inconsistent Story in Stealing. Click here for a showcase of his interactive and 3D work.

Christian Melhuish (Appa) is a singer, actor and dancer in New York. After graduating from Temple University with a BFA in musical theater, Christian has performed regionally around the country. Credits include Jesus (“Godspell”), Romeo (“Romeo & Juliet”) and Bob Gaudio (“Jersey Boys”). He has also performed Off-Broadway and in cabarets and staged readings.

Mackenzie Lavoie (Shandel, Motel’s mother) earned a bachelor of science in arts administration, combined arts and a minor in film and media studies at Wagner College. She is a communications and PR professional specializing in strategic storytelling, media relations and brand positioning.

Mikayla Czizik (Etil) is a New York-based actor, singer and dancer. She graduated with a BFA in Drama from NYU Tisch and the Atlantic Acting School.  She played Ash in her UK and Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut.

Avery Mendillo (Samara) is a New York-based actor and singer, with roots in musical theatre and a growing career in film and TV. She recently filmed her first feature film.

Remy Laifer (Motel Kamzoil, Yosef) s a New York-based actor and musician. A graduate of Northwestern University’s theatre program, he has appeared on television in NBC’s “New Amsterdam.” His film work includes “Escape from Myrtle Broadway” and “3 Worlds, 1 Modern Romance.”

Nick Ribolla (Perchick, the student)

Daniel Pauker (Mendel, the Rabbi’s son, Mandel)  is a technical animator. He has a passion for 3D software and systems.

Chad Celini (Arlin) is an American actor and performer who works in regional theater and independent productions. He has appeared in “Godspell,” “Curtains” and holiday musical revues, and on screen in the 2025 film “Game Over.”

Colin McKechnie (Soloman) s part of the premiere of Dance With Us with DGDC. He graduated from Ithaca College g with a BFA in acting, and a minor in dance. A stage and screen actor, he is playing Tony in the film adaption of Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need.”

Nick Rossi (Shmuel) is a professional singer, actor and musician. He has appeared regionally in “Master Harold … and the Boys,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles,” “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Jersey Boys.”

Jake Watzman (Benyamin) is an American voice actor and theatre performer. He graduated with a BA in theatre from Muhlenberg College. He is recognized for his work in indie animation, visual novels, and voiceover projects.

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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