ACT of CT is now in its sixth remarkable season self-producing Broadway caliber theater in Ridgefield. Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine says, “ It is our unbelievable community that has helped us achieve the level of recognition that we have attained, and whose support and patronage have allowed us to continue to create incredible theater in Fairfield County – even during the most trying of times in the history of the entertainment industry.”While all regional theaters across the country were forced to close their doors during the pandemic years by government, state and union mandates, a staggering large percentage of theaters weren’t able to reopen when restrictions lifted. Many theaters who did manage to re-open post-pandemic are finding it difficult to sustain and have not had the audience return that they hoped for. In fact, several prominent regional theaters recently announced their permanent closing.
ACT of CT‘s leadership refused to cease production during the pandemic years and quickly altered their programming in order create streaming productions (and even a feature film which was subsequently nominated for a Grammy Award.) Due to that foresight, along with the support of a community who understands that the arts are an essential part of a thriving society, ACT of CT is grateful to be flourishing with soldout productions and critical successes. ACT of CT has various partnerships and collaborations with local organizations including Ridgefield Library, Ridgefield Chorale, Founders Hall, Ridgefield Public Schools, National Charity League, Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, Ridgefield A Better Chance, Ridgefield CT Pride, Prospector Theater, RPAC Gallery and Art Center, 068 Magazine, Sphere, and Thrown Stone (to name a few) that truly demonstrate why Ridgefield was deemed to be the first Arts and Cultural District in the State of Connecticut.
It often feels as though ACT of CT has been in town for a lot longer than six years. In fact, many residents refer to the theater as a “staple in this community.” Yet, there are still some residents who have never seen an ACT of CT production and who may not realize the history of the theater. While ACT of CT’s accolades, awards, and programming are diverse and expanding, this timeline represents some interesting facts and milestones about their formation and history. If you haven’t been to a show, do yourself a favor and see one of their mainstage productions this season!•
