Tag Archives: Staples Players

Roundup: Class Of ’25 — Plus Annam Olasewere, Justin Paul, Anne Frank …

Posted on June 10, 2025 | 3 comments

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.

(Photo/Andrea Moore)

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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)

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Congratulations to Annam Olasewere!

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:

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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.

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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)

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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:

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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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.

A full obituary is here. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

 

(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!)

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Posted in Education, Politics, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Staples Honors, Staples Scholarships, Staples Players …

Posted on May 30, 2025 | 2 comments

Congratulations to Alexis Krenzer!

The Staples High School senior received the school’s highest honor — the Staples Key — at Wednesday’s awards ceremony.

Alexis — a Learning Center and middle school tutor; LinkCrew member for freshmen; member of the National, Science, Math and Chinese Honor Socieites; organizer of the Staples Tuition Grants Fun Run; ski team captain and soccer player — also took first place in the state STEM fair for her cancer research.

Alexis will study chemistry and math at Northwestern University.

The  other 2 finalists for the Staples Key were Abe Lobsenz and Sam Rossoni.

Over 90 awards were given out. Among the other big ones:

Lily Rimm won the James Bacharach Award Service to the Community Award. It’s been presented for over 35 years by the  Westport Youth Commission, in honoro of the founder and president of the Youth Adult Council, and a founder of what is now Homes with Hope.

Principal’s Awards for Outstanding Service went to William Boberski, Nina Bowens, Luca Caniato, Mia Ferrigno, Derek Hafiz, Christina Kavanah, Kensley Laguerre, Annam Olasawere, Molly Oliver, Andrew Rebello, Madeleine Saounatsos, Zelie Saounatsos, Danielle Schwartz and Jackson Tracey.

Staples Awards for Character were given to Kody Goldman and Kylie Kirkham (Class of 2025), Taylor Serotta and Eva Slossberg (Class of ’26), Nicolas Reyna and Vanii Punia (Class of ’27), and Kai Massicott and Azita Vazhayil (Class of ’28).

Alexis Krenzer

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More awards!

On Thursday, the Westport Police Benevolent Association Scholarship Foundation handed grants of $2,500 each to 17 students.

The Scholarship Foundation was founded and principally funded by Dr. Joan Poster and her late husband, Dennis Poster.

From left: Joseph Sabin, Reese Aliberti, Jaden Aliberti, Meghan Velky, Sgt. Sharon Russo, Sara Sabin, Samantha Sabin, Gabrielle Hayes, Lily Rimm. Not pictured: Zachary Benson, Grace Biagiotti, Olivia Biagiotti, Jacqueline Kelley, April Nowinski, Edward Nowinski, Brandon Smith, Connor Woods, Ava Wooldridge. (Photo: Harry Rimm)

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The dream of Staples Players actors is to be on Broadway.

Jamie Mann is.

Just a few days after graduating from the University of Michigan, the 2021 Staples High School alum has a featured role — and some very funny moments — in the new hit “Stranger Things.”

The other day, 26 current Players (and aspiring Great White Way stars) headed to New York. Jamie, they and directors David Roth and Kerry Long had dinner before the show.

After the curtain, Jamie posed for photos and autographs.

Jamie Mann (front row, 2nd from left) with Staples Players. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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It’s almost Yankee Doodle Fair time!

The dedades-old tradition returns next weekend. Dates are Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13 (6 to 10 p.m.); Saturday, June 14 (1 to 10 p.m.), and Sunday, June 15 (1 to 5 p.m.). The site is (of course) the Westport Woman’s Club (44 Imperial Avenue)

As always, there are carnival rides, games, food trucks and baked goods, raffles — you name it. Sand art is back too.

The “Take a Chance” tent makes a comeback, with prizes donated by local merchants and restaurants. Winners do not have to be present at the drawings.

A pay-one-price, unlimited ride wristband option is available.

Proceeds help benefit a variety of local charities, provide scholarships to Staples students, and support the Woman’s Club’s 50-year-old food closet.

This year, the organization awarded $124,200 in grants and scholarships.

Yankee Doodle comes to town!

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“Egrets” — the new 7 1/2-foot stainless steel sculpture by Redding artist Babette Bloch — will be dedicated tomorrow (May 31, 4 p.m., Canal Park, Canal Street at Kings Highway North).

It’s the latest in a series of local outdoor art, courtesy of the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and our Parks & Recreation Department.

Westport poet laureate Donna Disch will speak, and refreshments will be served.

A Parks & Rec employee lays grass, so “Egrets” is in its element.

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Former Westporter Rev. Dr. Peter Haile died May 16. He was 100.

He moved into The Saugatuck on Bridge Street when he was 80 to be closer to his daughter, Rebecca Swanson. He created, wrote and published a very popular newsletter for residents, “The Saugatalk.”

He was born at a school run by the London Missionary Society for the education of Black South Africans, where his father was principal for 40 years. The school, which refused to compromise its mission, was closed by the apartheid government in 1962. It reopened in 1995.

At 10, Peter was sent to live with an aunt in London, until the Blitz forced him, and many other children, to evacuate. At his new school he excelled in academics and competed in rugby, field hockey and cross country.

He spent 3 years in the Royal Navy. Discharged in South Africa, he was reunited with his parents for the first time in 12 years.

Peter earned his teaching certificate at Oxford, where he ran cross country with Roger Bannister. On a mission year in the US he met and married Jane Hollingsworth. They moved to Boston, where Peter ministered to college students.

In 1961 he began a 29-year stint at the Stony Brook School on Long Island, as an English teacher, chaplain and assistant headmaster. After retiring, he spent 10 years as assistant pastor at the Three Village Church in Setauket, New York.

Peter was was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his son John (Susan), daughter Rebecca Swanson (David); grandchildren CMDR David Haile (Michelle), Andrew Haile (René), Sarah Haile, Dr. David Swanson III (Katharine), and Peter Swanson (Marissa);,and great-grandchildren Nora, James, Christopher, Brandon, Alethea and Naomi.

A memorial service is set for July 3, at the Stony Brook School. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Stony Brook School, Mozaic Senior Life or Tiger Kloof Educational Institution.

Rev. Dr. Peter Haile

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Let’s end this week with a bow-wow “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Frankie enjoys the grass near Compo Beach. He wishes he and his friends are allowed on the sand all year long — not just off-season.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … Rick Derringer, who hit Number 1 as a 17-year-old guitarist with “Hang On Sloopy,” had a smash several years later as a solo artist with “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo,” then became a producer with artists ranging from Peter Frampton, Barbra Streisand and Kiss to Bette Midler, Cyndi Lauper and Weird Al Yankovic — died Monday in Florida. He was 77.

A complete obituary is available here.

(Sloopy lives in a very bad part of town. But you’re in Westport — or you’ve got some connection to it. If you enjoy this “06880” community, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Obituaries, Staples HS

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“Diary Of Anne Frank”: Timely Drama Set For Staples Stage

Posted on May 12, 2025 | 4 comments

Published more than 70 years ago, “The Diary of Anne Frank” teaches crucial lessons about hatred, authoritarianism, perseverance, the human spirit and hope.

A subsequent theatrical production brought the Dutch teenager’s story to the stage, dramatizing visually for audiences the horrors and toll that two years of hiding takes on a family.

In that sense, “The Diary of Anne Frank” is timeless.

But theater is never static. When Staples Players presents their production later this month, it will look different from the one they staged 19 years ago.

David Roth and Kerry Long directed that version too. This one is shorter — 80 minutes — and includes new text, in an adaptation by the playwright.

Sara Stanley, as Anne Frank, writes in her diary. (Photo/Kerry Long)

It is at least as relevant now as it was 2 decades ago, the directors say. And not just because so many Holocaust survivors have died since then.

“With the rise of hatred around the world, this is a good time to tell the story of what happens when it goes unchecked,” Long says.

“The Franks were an educated, well-to-do family. And if this could happen to them …”

“This is not a play about evil, though,” Roth notes. “It’s about surviving in the face of evil. We’ve emphasized with the actors that this is a story of resilience, of people coming together in adversity. There is something in these characters that everyone can relate to.”

“Anne Frank” actors, in the annex. (Photo/Kerry Long)

Despite being one of the most powerful stories in modern history, many students today are only vaguely familiar with Anne Frank, Roth says.

Eighth graders in Westport study the Holocaust. They read “Night,” by Elie Wiesel. But not Frank’s diary.

(Thanks to a collaboration between Players and Bedford and Coleytown Middle School, all 8th graders will attend special in-school performances of the show.)

Roth and Long’s actors have been surprised to find that a teenager not so different from them could live in an attic for more than two years.

And do more than just survive. Anne Frank also fell in love.

As part of their preparation, the directors took the cast to an Anne Frank exhibit at New York’s Center for Jewish History. It includes a full-scale replica of the annex.

“It was so powerful for the kids to walk through,” Long says. “They got a much better understanding of Holland during the war, and what the Franks went through.

“A lot of them bought the exhibit book. One of them said it was the best museum they’d ever been to.”

Staples Players, at the Center for Jewish History. David Roth and Kerry Long are standing, 3rd and 4th from left.

Though being quarantined for long periods of time with their family during COVID was nowhere near the scale of horror the Franks endured, the young actors do bring that perspective to their characters.

But they also realize that the show will have special resonance for older audience members.

Players’ previous performance of “Anne Frank,” in 2006, drew more people with direct knowledge of the Holocaust — as survivors, or their relatives — than this one will.

However, at least one survivor will see this show. Now 89 years old, they’ll do a talkback after the May 22 perfromance.

When he published his daughter’s diary, Anne Frank’s father Otto said he wanted her story to be read by as many people as possible all over the world.

Anne Frank’s dream was to be a famous writer. In death, she is.

Roth, Long, and the talented teenagers of Staples Players,  are keeping her dream, and her father’s wishes, alive and strong.

(“The Diary of Anne Frank” is recommended for ages 10 and up. It will be performed on May 21, 22, 23 and 24 at 7 p.m., and May 24 at 3 p.m., in the Staples High School Black Box. Tickets, double cast lists and more information is avaiable here.)

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Posted in Arts, History, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Staples Students Share Shakespeare

Posted on April 30, 2025 | 4 comments

It’s one thing for high school students to connect with Shakespeare.

Some do. An inspiring teacher or formative experience can help them understand the timeless appeal of The Bard’s explorations of life, love, death, revenge, grief, jealousy, murder, magic and mystery. 

It’s another thing entirely for third graders to get it.

But students at Edison Elementary School in Bridgeport are fortunate to have Chris Cormier as a teacher.

And Chris is fortunate to have connected with Diane Lowman.

Diane Lowman

For many years, Lowman — Westport’s first-ever poet laureate, who earned a master’s degree in Shakespeare studies through the University of Birmingham (in Stratford-upon-Avon) — has collaborated with “Mr. C,” and the Edison students.

She visits regularly, teaching them the ins and outs of the world’s most famous playwright. They are always eager to learn.

Earlier this year, Lowman contacted Staples Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long. Could the high school’s prestigious drama group help the Edison youngsters learn a bit more about Shakespeare?

Timing is everything, as we know from “Julius Caesar.”

Roth’s Theater III advanced acting class had been working on scenes from “Macbeth.”

So one morning this month, the Bridgeport boys and girls arrived excitedly at Staples.

They played a concentration game with Roth and the class. They talked about the Shakespeare plays they had studied.

Getting to know each other. Staples Players director David Roth is at left. Edison School teacher Chris Cormier is 6th from right.

They watched Roth’s class perform 2 “Macbeth” scenes. Afterward, the Edison children asked questions, about the play and theater in general.

A scene from “Macbeth,” with Cat Betit and Will McCrea.

Then — with everyone sitting on the Black Box floor — they enjoyed pizza and juice boxes.

A post-play treat.

Roth and Long were amazed at how much the youngsters knew, after just an hour a week with Cormier and Lowman.

“They asked great questions,” Long says. “They really understood what they were talking about, and raised questions about themes of the play.”

“It’s incredibly gratifying for this Shakespeare nerd to see the kids respond so positively, and make so many connections with The Bard,” Lowman adds.

“Having David, his students and Kerry bring this to life was such a treat. This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship and an annual tradition.”

Learning together: Mikey Winkler and 3rd graders.

Roth and Long asked Lowman if she could do something similar, for more classs. Cormier said he’d help.

As for Cormier himself: Edison Elementary School has no budget to support trips like the one to Staples.

The cost for a bus is not insignificant. Students sold ice cream at Friday lunches for $1 each, but that did not cover the entire transportation and food bill. Cormier made up the difference.

“I know that Westport could easily pitch in,” Long says.

She and Roth have created a GoFundMe page, for donations.

Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan, or just want to help a group of Bridgeport kids expand their horizons, click here.

Because, as we all know, “Fortune reigns in gifts of the world.”

Theatre III and Edison Park students, with their teachers. (All photos/Kerry Long)

 

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Roundup: Stew’s & Tariffs, Bird Flu & Westport, Zach De Brino & Playhouse …

Posted on March 10, 2025 | 14 comments

Everyone’s talking about tariffs.

In this area, many of those talking are businesspeople. Most have some skin in the game.

That includes Stew Leonard Jr.

The Westport native — now CEO of Stew Leonard’s, the company his father founded, with 8 locations in the tri-state area — sat down the other day with Business Insider. Among his comments:

As far as tariffs go, I’ve talked to our suppliers in Mexico with avocados and beer and tequila, and I’ve talked to our suppliers in Canada. We get some tomatoes on the vine from Vancouver, and salmon is our biggest item from Canada. There’s also lobsters, but it’s not lobster season yet.

Basically, take your darts out for your dartboard because nobody that I’ve talked to, even the experts in the field, knows what’s going to happen.

Throw a dart. Is this tariff going to last one day? Is it going to last a week? Is it going to last a month?

What we’re scrambling to do is find alternate sources if there is an increase in the tariff. We’re sitting here riding the market day by day….

Click here to read the full story. (Hat tip: Doug McCarthy)

Stew Leonard Jr. (Photo courtesy/Westchester Magazine)

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On the 5th anniversary of the pandemic, COVID is still here.

Is bird flu here too?

While the CDC website shows no reported cases in Connecticut — or east of Ohio — one Westport woman is not so sure.

She told “06880” yesterday that she found 2 dead birds in the waters of the Ned Dimes Marina at Compo Beach, and another nearby on the Longshore golf course.

She was advised to contact the Aspetuck Health District, just to be sure.

Dead birds at the Compo Beach marina.

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For a while, I’ve wondered why nearly every new house in Westport seems to be white (with black accents).

I’m not the only one.

Dan Kois has thought about the trend too.

Now he’s written about it.

He concentrates on Arlington, Virginia. But the style is national, he notes.

His piece in Salon answers a number of questions, including why they’re so big, and why they’re so white. Click here to read. (Hat tip: Scott Smith)

This 4-bedroom, 3 1/2-bathroom house on Spriteview Avenue is on the market for $3.499 million. 

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It’s less than 3 miles from Staples High to the Westport Country Playhouse.

It’s a lot longer through Ithaca, New York.

That’s the route Zach De Brino took. It was worth the detour.

Before graduating from high school in 2019, he was an assistant director for Staples Players.

Zach earned a BFA in stage management from Ithaca College in 2023. Since then he’s worked Off-Broadway and regionally, including production assistant and crew swing on “Teeth” at Playwrights Horizons, assistant stage manager for the Spoleto Festival USA in Charleston, and event production coordinator in New York.

Now he returns home. Zach is the production assistant “Theatre People,” which opens March 25 at the Playhouse.

Click here for more information on the show, including tickets.

Zach De Brino, checking props for “Theatre People.” (Photo/Andrea Quiles)

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Jay Norris’ new “Visionary” podcast has just dropped.

This week, the business/tech/media/retail/real estate/music entrepreneur talks with ESPN chair (and fellow Westporter Jimmy Pitaro.

To hear the strategy that led him to the world’s top sports network — and much more — click below.

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Signs of spring are everywhere. Bob Weingarten spotted this — a perfect candidate for “Westport … Naturally” — on Hillandale Road:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … as noted above, Stew Leonard Jr. is worried about:

(Be a champ! Help support “06880.” Just click here — and thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Economy, Environment, Local business, Longshore, Media, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Daylight Savings Time, Staples Spelling Bee, OKO Special Menu …

Posted on March 8, 2025 | 2 comments

The Westport Fire Department responded yesterday afternoon to a house fire on Tarone Drive. One resident was injured, and taken to Norwalk Hospital.

The WPD reminds everyone to ensure they have working smoke detectors in their homes.

Dayling Savings Time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday morning. Move your clocks forward one hour! Whenever you change your clocks, remember to change your batteries!

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More than half a century after graduating from Staples High School, I made my Players debut.

I was a guest speller last night in their production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

It was short-lived. I got knocked out on my first word: kumis. As I sure as heck did not know, the fermented milk drink from Central and East Asia is spelled not with a “c,” but with a “k.” (It’s also known as koumis or kumyz, neither of which I would have gotten either.)

Yours truly being given a loser’s prize by Mitch Mahoney (Yusef Abdallah), after failing in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

My fellow guest spellers — 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Staples principal Stafford Thomas and Bedford Acting Group director Ryan Smith — lasted longer than I did.

Neither of them won, either. (Spoiler alert: No guest speller has ever won, in the history of the Broadway show. It’s rigged!)

“Older” spellers (from left) Stafford Thomas, Dan Woog, Jen Tooker and Ryan Smith, on stage with the Staples cast, who are much better spellers (and actors).

But boy, did we have fun. Thank you, Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long, for the invitation. And great job Players, making us all feel welcome!

The show continues today (Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, March 9, 2 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Leaf Coneybear (Cooper Gusick, center) entertains Staples principal Stafford Thomas and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. (All photos/Kerry Long)

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Chef Brian Lewis — whose OKO and The Cottage are Westport favorites — was recently named a semifinalist for the James Beard Award (“Best Chef Northeast” category).

Now he’s introducing a new dining experience.

The OKO-KASE menu includes Popcorn Dashi Lions Mane, Hokkaido Uni, Osetra Caviar, Bread and Butter Lobster, Passion Fruit and Stracciatella
Black Truffle Chawanmushi.

That’s followed by a selection of nigiri sushi, hand rolls, and flavorful dishes like Chili-Lime King Crab Hand Roll, St. Canut Pork Belly with Walnut Miso and Fermented Apple Butter, and Yuzu White Chocolate Huckleberry Kiss.

The price is $200 per guest; $75 sake pairing per guest. Reservations (203-557-8404) require 48-hour notice, and a $50 deposit per guest. 

Westport escaped major damage in yesterday’s high winds.

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Residents of Hickory Drive were not as lucky, however. Power went out when a tree took down live wires.

(Photo/Ron Poserina)

Winds continue today, 20 to 30 mph, with occasional gusts over 40. The temperature will be in the mid 40s.

The week ahead looks good. Tuesday could see 60 degrees.

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Last year, Rach’s Hope Walk the Extra Mile raised more than $20,000. The funds helped the non-profit that supports families with critically ill children in the ICU with an additional 100 nights of hotel stays, so parents can rest and recharge while staying close to their kids.

Rach’s Hope — which honors Rachel Doran, the Staples High School graduate and rising Cornell University senior, who died after developin a rare reaction to common medications — is getting ready for their 6th annual Rach’s Hope PJ Gala.

(Rachel was a talented Staples Players costume designer, and founded a pajama company.)

The date is Saturday, March 29 (7 to 11 p.m., FTC, Fairfield). Click here for tickets.

Festivities include an open bar with Tito’s cocktails, beer, wine and prosecco; heavy appetizers and desserts by AMG Catering; live music kicked off by Westport’s own Michael Cantor and Frog Salon, plus Rach’s Hope’s signature band, Ellis Island — and live and silent auctions too.

Enjoying a previous Rach’s Hope gala.

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Congratulations to Tucker Eklund!

The Staples High School freshman was the only 9th grader in the entire country  to win the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy annual Civics Challenge His entry was Crafting Change: The Art of Lawmaking in Congress.

The Civics Challenge is a very competitive national contest open to students in grades 6 through 12. Participants demonstrate civics knowledge through essays, short videos or original songs.

Tucker — one of just 10 winners nationwide — earned a $500 prize.

And the admiration of everyone who mourns the loss of civics education in America today.

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Speaking of education: Adam Shapiro recently spent 2 days at Greens Farms Academy.

The noted actor (“The Bear,” “Never Have I Ever,” “Waitress”) was the school’s 2025 Hartwell Visiting Artist.

Shapiro presented at student assemblies, delivered a keynote to parents on “Cultivating Creativity,” coached the Middle School cast of “Frozen Jr.,” and shared his stories and advice about building a career in the arts.

Click here to read more about Shapiro’s visit. Click below for a highlight reel:

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Speaking of school: Congratulations too to Weston High School’s robotics team!

They won the engineering design Innovate Champion Award at the state robotics championship recently.

That earned them a spot at the VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas in May. Good luck to the squad: Emily Arias, Angela Zhao, Joshua Miranda and Cooper Schleef.

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Connecticut Attorney General William Tong — an early opponent, with counterparts across the country, of some of President Trump’s first funding cuts — is the guest at the Democratic Women of Westport’s annual Souper Luncheon.

The event is March 28 (11:30 a.m.). The DWW invites the public to join the AG, and learn more about his work on behalf of state residents. To RSVP, email dww06880@gmail.com.

On April 22, the Democratic Women sponsor a forum with Yale Law School professor Paul Kahn, author of Democracy in Our America: Can We Still Govern Ourselves? He’ll be joined in conversation by the Representative Town Meeting’s current and former moderators, Jeff Wieser and Velma Heller.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong.

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Saugatuck Congregational Church host’s Connecticut’s first “Music for Food” concert (March 16, 3 p.m.), with classical pianist Emma Tahmizian.

The Bulgarian musician debuted internationally at age 11, at a concert series in Moscow. She has performed and recorded regularly, since winning the 1977 Robert Schumann Competition.

The event is free, but donations are accepted. All proceeds benefit Homes with Hope, to support area residents facing food insecurity.

Emma Tahmizian

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The Gallery @ Green’s Farms Church welcomes photographer Sally Harris, and her latest work: “The Colors and Culture of Oaxaca.”

The show runs from March 14 to May 14. An opening reception is March 14 (6 to 8 p.m.). For more information, click here.

Sally Harris’ Oaxaca art.

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Speaking of art: Brian Whelan’s work is always a highlight of our “06880” online gallery.

Now it’s on view at Trinity Church Wall Street, in New York.

“Holy City” is a series inspired by medieval artwork, contemporary expressionism, and Whelan’s Catholic roots. blending the temporal and the spiritual.

The 9-panel painting at the center of the exhibit depicts Christianity, Islam and Judaism existing in harmony, with houses of worship supporting and uplifting one another.

The exhibit is open through March 18. Click here for more information.

Brian Whelan, with his “Holy City” works.

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Speaking still of the arts: A large crowd learned a lot at Thursday’s Malloy Fund for the Arts’ presentation “Reimagined: Westport as an Arts Town, Past, Present and Future.”

Actor James Naughton moderated a panel, with Miggs Burroughs, Melissa Newman and Meloday James.

Ann Sheffer — a passionate arts advocate and philanthropist (and donor Susan Malloy’s niece), whose family’s contributions helped shape Westport’s cultural fabric — also spoke.

If you missed it: no worries. Just click below, to see the entire event.

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The Westport Astronomical Society will be open from 1 a.m. to 3:40 a.m. (weather permitting) on March 14, to observe the total lunar eclipse.

In other WAS news, the next free online lecture features Sarah Elizabeth McCandless. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory navigation engineer discusses “Exploring an Icy World with Europa Clipper.”

The March 18 (8 p.m.) event will livestreamed on YouTube, and also on Zoom. Click here for more Westport Astronomical Society details.

Total lunar eclipse. (Images courtesy of WAS member Michael Southam).

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Dogs are one of the most natural parts of Westport.

And most beloved.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature reminds us that man’s best friend has 23 more days to enjoy Compo Beach, before summer rules begin.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … in  honor of Staples Players’ spring production (story above):

(How do you spell “support for ‘06880’”? C-l-i-c-k h-e-r-e! Also: T-h-a-n-k y-o-u!)

 

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Roundup: Riverside Avenue Trees, Mitchells Stores, Players Spelling Bee …

Posted on March 5, 2025 | 14 comments

Riverside Avenue and Lincoln Street neighbors fought hard.

But on Monday 2 large trees — perhaps over 200 years old — at 125 Riverside Avenue were cut down. Hours later, the oak at 79 Riverside Avenue next to Eloise Ray Park was also removed.

A  home will be built adjacent to the park, on the Saugatuck River at the foot of Lincoln Street.

Nearby resident Charles Tirreno spent the afternoon helping his mother re-home newborn baby squirrels, whose nest was removed along with the tree.

“This has been a grave loss of habitat for countless species of mammals, insects, critically endangered turtles and protected birds,” he wrote in an email to his Representative Town Meeting District 9 members.

He urged his representatives to closely monitor the situation, to ensure that stipulations voted on by the Planning & Zoning Commission are adhered to.

Scene after trees were removed, adjacent to Eloise A. Ray Park. (Photo/Charles Tirreno)

Asked to comment by “06880,” RTM member Jennifer Johnson said, “This is a terrible loss for our entire community.  It is an in-our-face reminder of how little Westport is doing to protect our town’s limited open space.

“Across Westport we are bearing witness to the systematic loss of cherished natural resources. From the assault on Jesup Green to the wiping out of the Community Gardens, and now a proposed 35,000-square foot area of asphalt, steel and concrete in the middle of Longshore.  What’s going to happen to that giant sycamore gracing Charles Street when the Hamlet plows through?

“Sadly, the redevelopment of the property on 125 Riverside is a perfect example of community-wide inaction. We have an open space fund. Did anyone ever try to purchase the site for open space?

“Unfortunately, we waited to blame the person who eventually came forward to redevelop the site. That’s too late. We now must confront the loss of more glorious trees, and the missed chance to add parkland to our riverfront.”

“Please do not take any more trees!” added RTM member Sal Liccione.

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Mitchells — the small mom-and-pop men’s store that has grown in nearly 70 years to include 8 of the leading luxury retail stores in the US  — has just gotten bigger.

Stanley Korshak — the leading luxury retailer in Dallas — is joining the Mitchell Stores family.

In addition to Westport — where Mitchells is headquartered — the group includes Richards in Greenwich; Mitchells in Huntington, New York; Wilkes Bashford stores in San Francisco and Palo Alto, and 3 Marios stores in Seattle, Portland and Bridgeport, Oregon.

The Mitchells have been close personal friends with former owner Crawford Brock and his family for over 20 years. Stanley Korshak is a 32,000-square foot store Dallas’ Uptown neighborhood.

Most important, Mitchells says, the store “shares our family’s vision to bringing customers the most exquisite luxury fashions in the world, with unequaled personalized service.” In addition to the main store, Stanley Korshak has one of the top bridal salons in the country.

“Stanley Korshak is a jewel in Texas. We will do everything to continue to offer world-class products and services that are perfectly tailored to Dallas customers,” says Chris Mitchell. The 3rd generation owner will spend half his time in Dallas, working closely with Crawford.

Meanwhile, the 4th generation of Mitchells has begun working with the company.

Ed and Norma Mitchell — who founded that original men’s store in a former plumbing supply building at the corner of Post Road East and Compo Road North in 1958 (now M&T Bank) — would be very proud.

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Staples Players actors are as close to professional as you can get, without an Equity card.

When the curtain rises Friday for “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” — Players’ spring production — they’ll be joined by a couple of legit Broadway actors, like Kelli O’Hara and Chris Sarandon.

Former Staples principal John Dodig (who had a memorable role in Players’ “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”) and former State Senator Will Haskell — a Player himself in his high school days — will be onstage too.

But so will a few definite non-actors, like First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Principal Stafford Thomas, and Wrecker boys basketball coach Dave Goldshore.

Plus “06880”‘s own Dan Woog.

We’re all “guest spellers.” We have no idea what we’re in for. We’ll just go with the flow.

And we’ll be guided by the very talented Players themselves. They’ve prepared well, for schmoes like us.

They’ll lead. We’ll follow. And we hope that audiences will laugh with — not at — us.

The full guest cast:

Friday, March 7 (7 p.m.): First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker, Principal Stafford Thomas, “06880”‘s Dan Woog, Bedford Acting Group ‘s Ryan Smith.

Saturday, March 8 (2 p.m.): Actor Chris Sarandon, former State Senator Will Haskell and more.

Saturday, March 8 (7 p.m.): Coach Dave Goldshore and more.

Sunday, March 9 (2 p.m.): Tony Award winner Kelli O’Hara, former Staples principal John Dodig, Staples choral director Lauren Pine and more.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

“25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” (Photo/Kerry Long)

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The Read to Grow Bookmobile arrives in Westport tomorrow (Thursday, March 6, 3 to 5 p.m., Compo Beach cannons).

Youngsters can climb aboard the bookmobile (not the cannons) to pick out a free book. The selection includes new board books, picture books and chapter books, for youngsters birth to age 7.

Kids LOVE climbing aboard to pick out a free book to take home! Their shelves are packed with new board books, picture books, and chapter books for kids birth to age 7—so there’s something for everyone!

To learn more about Read to Grow, click here.

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The Animal Awareness Night scheduled for this evening (Wednesday, March 5) has been postponed. The new date is 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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Sure, you can teach your kids how to decorate cookie cakes.

But on March 25 (7:30 p.m., The Blondinit restaurant), Jess Leventhal will teach adults how to create “a stunning 2-layer mini cookie cake that feeds 6-8 people, and is almost too beautiful to eat.”

The $125 ticket a choice of signature cocktail, and light fare by The Blondinit. Click here for details and registration.

Blondinit cookie cake.

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Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject — a juvenile mute swan — swimming alone in the Saugatuck River, near Riverside Park.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

That’s such a rare sight in Westport. No, not a swan. I mean a young one, playing without an adult nearby.

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And finally … in honor of Staples Players’ production of “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ (story above):

(Contributing to “06880” is as easy as … well, you know. Just click here. That’s it! Thank you!)

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Staples Players Spell Success “Putnam County Bee”

Posted on February 25, 2025 | 1 comment

When audiences fill the auditorium for a Staples Players production, they know they’ll be entertained by a cast of very talented teenagers.

Next month will be no different.

Except that the Players will be joined by men and women far past their teenage years, including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Staples principal Stafford Thomas, Wrecker boys basketball coach Dave Goldshore, Broadway star Kelli O’Hara, former State Senator Will Haskell, several popular teachers … and, um, “06880”‘s own founder and editor Dan Woog (aka me).

Four members of that quasi-illustrious cast will take the stage each night, in Players’ spring production: “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

Anyone who saw the musical during its long Broadway run knows it is touching, sweet, and laugh-out-loud funny.

Who will win the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee?

And, because the audience participates so directly, each show is different and unique.

Also unique: co-directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s selection of the comedy.

Traditionally, Players’ spring production has been big and showy. This year, they looked for something smaller and lighter.

They’d wanted to do a “Putnam Spelling Bee” — a great ensemble piece — for a while. In 2025, the timing was right.

Still, Players is a large organization. Roth and Long found a way to expand the show for a cast of 25.

Several cast members prepare for the show. (Photos/Kerry Long)

As expected, it’s been “super fun,” Long says. “Every day at rehearsal, I laugh at something new.”

The spontaneity of bringing spellers from the audience — and the improvisation that follows — is part of its charm.

Long admits, “it’s scary for us on stage.” Yet she and Roth are excited to see their actors rise to the challenge.

Also different from most Players’ productions: The actors play characters who are younger than themselves. Usually, their roles are older.

“The characters are larger than life,” Roth says. “They really embrace that.”

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is less than 2 hours long, including intermission.

The curtain rises Friday, March 7 at 7 p.m. Additional performances are Saturday, March 8 (2 and 7 p.m.), and Sunday, March 9 (2 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

(“06880” regularly covers Staples Players productions — and everything else going on at our schools, and in our town. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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“A Wrinkle In Time”: Staples Players, Alum Collaborate, Create

Posted on January 28, 2025 | 1 comment

NOTE: This story was published erroneously Sunday, 2 days earlier than scheduled. It is reposted now. 

Staples Players made a life-changing impact on Gina Rattan.

After performing in shows like “Guys and Dolls,” “The Music Man” and “City of Angels,” the 2004 graduate studied directing at the University of Michigan.

She’s worked at the Royal Albert Hall and Guthrie Theater; assisted the lead producer at Disney Theatrical, and served as associate director for 7 Broadway shows, and the national tour of “Cinderella.”

Gina now coaches actors for theater, film and TV, plus corporate executives. She focuses on helping people communicate, in any area of life.

Gina Rattan

For the past 10 years, Gina has mentored directors in Staples’ One-Act Festival. She helps teenagers bring their vision to the Black Box stage.

But — realizing the impact of her Staples experience 2 decades ago — she wanted to do more.

“Players is an environment where excellence was expected of me. People believed I could do something challenging and great — and that when I screwed up, we could solve problems together,” Gina says.

“I wanted to pass that along to the next generation of kids.”

She talked with David Roth — her Players’ director in the early 2000s, and still in that role — about another project that could empower teenagers.

The result — “A Wrinkle in Time” — can be seen February 7 (sold out) and February 8 (5 and 7 p.m.) at Toquet Hall.

The adaptation of the beloved science fantasy novel, in a non-traditional performing space, excites Gina.

“It’s very different for the actors than being in the light, with the audience in the dark,” says Gina. “It adds excitement. No one can hide.”

The set is minimal, but the spectacle is great, she notes.

She and her actors use the rehearsal process as a “creative laboratory.” Gina, the actors, stage managers and production assistants are all co-creators in the final product.

Together, they “create the mood, and structure the world, in a very exciting way.”

“I could do it all on my own,” Gina notes. “But it’s much more empowering this way. There is a lot of experimentation, collaboration, and opportunities to try, fail, and build resilience.”

Her teenage students realize that there is not just one answer to how to stage a scene, or interpret a character. They do not follow Gina’s commands. Instead, they create a work together.

Gina Rattan (seated on floor) with her young actors. (Photo/Kerry Long)

That’s not easy, the director says. “Self-empowerment is grueling. It takes a lot of energy.

“But the process of discovery is just as important as the result. That’s a hard sell in our culture today. In an educational context, it’s so important.”

Gina enjoys working with the young cast and crew — and not just for their talent, eagerness and willingness to collaborate.

“I didn’t want to direcct kids pretending to be adults, which is what most high school shows have to be. It’s nice to have a show where they can just been teenagers, and relate to their own experiences.”

“At the same time, there’s a fantasy/science fiction element to it. They’re interpreting it all at a sophisticated level.”

Rehearsing at Staples High School, before moving to Toquet Hall. (Photo/Kerry Long)

The audience for “A Wrinkle in Time” is broad, Gina says.

“If you loved the book, you’ll love the show. If you’re a teenager, or a teenager’s parent, you’ll connect with it. And for anyone who’s a fan of science fiction and fantasy, it’s a home run.”

Gina loves this project because the cast and crew “never stop learning.” That’s one of the most important lessons she learned in Players, and throughout her years in the Westport schools: “Learning is fun. Learning is great.”

The teenagers are “developing skills at a formative time in their lives. They’ll have the benefit of those skills for the rest of their lives. I feel very honored to be a part of that.”

(Click here to purchase tickets for “A Wrinkle in Time,” and for more information.

(Staples Players’ spring season continues with “The 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” The mainstage show runs one weekend only: March 7-9.)

(From Staples Players to the Westport Country Playhouse — and to local stars on Broadway, TV and the movies — “06880” covers our town’s vibrant arts scene. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Elf, Art, SLOBs …

Posted on November 24, 2024 | 5 comments

“Elf: The Musical” ended its 2-week run last night, at the Staples auditorium.

Staples Players’ fall show has taken its place as one of the most fun, energetic and spectacular shows in the troupe’s 66-year history.

Sold-out audiences loved the singing, dancing — and especially, its message of joy. Many attendees got in the spirit of the show themselves:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

From left: Blake Raho, Seamus Brannigan and Chloe Carson. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Buddy (Seamus Brannigan) and the elves. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Clarendon Fine Art on Main Street was filled Friday night, at a reception for Craig Alan.

His work includes dozens, sometimes hundreds, of intricately painted exquisite figures. Here’s one example. (Hat tip: Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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Also Friday night: Staples Service League of Boys‘ (SLOBs) biggest basketball fundraiser ever.

More than 240 SLOBs, students and parents formed 38 3-v-3 teams, to raise over $5,100 for Staples Tuition Grants.

SLOBS president Cole Siegner, fundraising chair Zach Gillman and the executive board planned the event, and selected the charity to support.

They also voted to create a SLOBs named award with Tuition Grants, in honor of their friend and fellow Stapleite Max Harper. To contribute, click here; then select “SHS SLOBs Named Award” from the dropdown menu.

Contratulations to the winners: seniors James Pretty, RJ Kickham and Ben Cukier.

Runners-up were Austin Heyer, Cole Landgraf, Nate Maurillo and James Moneyhun. Two teams won sportsmanship awards: Jack Schwartz, Jackson Tracey, Max Saperstein and Andre Albanese, and Grant Bozeman, Ryan Marens, Charles Nivaud and Michael Roberts.

A small portion of the large SLOBs crowd.

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Westporters are used to seeing one deer, nearly everywhere in town. Sometimes there are 2 or 3.

But 6?!

Richard Fogel spotted these half-dozen the other day off Whitney Street, and snapped this shot for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … Donald “Duck” Dunn was born on this day, in 1941. A bass guitarist/record producer/session musician/songwriter, he is best known for his work with Stax Records artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Rufus and Carla Thomas, Eddie Floyd and others.

Dnn is in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with Booker T. & the MGs. He died in 2012, at 70.

(Hold on! Are you coming with a tax-deductible donation, to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog? If so, please click here. Thank you!)

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