From the bustling halls of Ridgefield High School to the thriving stage of the Ridgefield Playhouse, this iconic venue’s journey shines as a beacon of community spirit and the magic of preserving history.
The old Ridgefield High School, built in 1915, gained its iconic auditorium in 1929, designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and his son as a gift to the town. This space served as a hub for education and culture for over four decades, hosting school performances, town meetings, and two legendary performances by Arturo Toscanini during WWII. After the high school relocated in 1972, the auditorium sat dormant until the late 1990s, when a group of Ridgefield residents envisioned its transformation into an arts and entertainment venue.
After securing town approval in 1998, the building underwent a meticulous restoration, bringing its exterior back to its former glory, while modernizing the interior. “The auditorium was built with near perfect acoustics,” says former Executive Director Allison Stockel. “Ridgefield residents recognized the theater’s historic significance. Barbara Manners and the committee’s remarkable foresight saw its potential to become truly great.” The Playhouse opened in December 2000 with a performance by Grammy-winning artist José Feliciano, known for his holiday classic “Feliz Navidad.”
Since then, the Playhouse has hosted over 4,000 events, including concerts, plays, dance recitals, film screenings, and over 30 galas. They offer a range of legendary acts like Elvis Costello, Andy Grammer, Willie Nelson, Melissa Etheridge, and Pat Metheny, alongside comedians like Amy Schumer, Jay Leno, Colin Jost, and Seth Meyers.
In 2004, the Playhouse launched its Arts In Education program. Since then, it has grown to host over 30 live shows annually, reaching 20,000 students in person and 107,000 virtually. In 2023, a $200,000 fundraiser allowed the program to be offered free of charge for the first time. It’s become one of the Northeast’s most impactful programs, offering students of all economic backgrounds performances that connect to their daily curriculum.
The Playhouse’s influence extends beyond its walls. In 2021, Ridgefield was designated Connecticut’s first Cultural District, recognizing the town’s vibrant arts scene. “This honor unifies our cultural organizations while supporting the local economy,” says Sean Dowd of Ridgefield’s Economic & Community Development Commission. “The Playhouse is an outstanding landmark and contributing force to this mission.”
Recent renovations, funded by private donors, elevated the Playhouse experience. The $4 million capital campaign project doubled the lobby size, enhanced the bar area, added private dressing rooms, and improved backstage facilities.
Partnerships with local non-profits, further embed the Playhouse in the community. Its annual Nutcracker performances with the Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance have become a cherished family holiday tradition.
“Our theater has grown from a modest venue into a vibrant cultural hub, offering diverse performances that resonate with all ages,” says Executive Director, Ashley Paltauf. “The Playhouse’s success is a testament to the community’s dedication and support.”
While ticket sales are essential, they only cover a portion of operating costs. As a non-profit organization, the Playhouse relies on the generosity of donors, members and sponsorships to sustain its mission and continue enriching the cultural fabric of the community. Stay tuned for more exciting details as the Playhouse prepares to celebrate its 25th Anniversary.
