O68 What has been your role at the Playhouse?
AP In my 11 years at the Playhouse, I’ve managed the bar program, concierge and membership services, front-of-house operations, and the development department. While working under Allison Stockel (prior Executive Director), I also supported marketing and production, gaining extensive experience in these departments. I’ve also been involved in overall decision making and strategic oversight.
O68 When does your co-director Jared leave? What is he leaving for?
AP Jared will be working with us through the Summer before he heads to Florida. He has been named the incoming Executive Director of The Innovate, a state-of-the-art venue in Palm Beach slated to open in early 2025. We are incredibly happy for him and are confident that he will bring the same growth and success to his new role as he did while at the Playhouse.
O68 What is changing about your position now that you are the sole Executive Director of the Ridgefield Playhouse? Are there any new personnel you will
be hiring?
AP With my new role as the Executive Director of the Ridgefield Playhouse, several changes are on the horizon. I will be taking on a broader range of responsibilities, overseeing all aspects of operations, programming, marketing, fundraising and strategic planning. This transition necessitates the hiring of new personnel. Specifically, we are looking to hire a Director of Programming to help us fulfill our mission and bring quality shows to our venue.
O68 What will be your new duties? What special skills do you bring into the role?
AP We are returning to a sole Executive Director structure, with Programming, Production, and Marketing reporting directly to me along with Operations and Fundraising. I’m thrilled to work closely with these dedicated individuals who are the driving force of our behind-the-scenes success. My passion for music and the arts drove me to get involved with the Playhouse, especially after welcoming twin daughters in 2018, which made me focus even more on my future here. Eleven years ago, I started as a box office associate, and I now proudly serve as the Executive Director of the Ridgefield Playhouse—a true American dream. Every day, I pour my heart into my work and find every opportunity to bring my children here to experience incredible performances like Martin Sexton, Rachael & Vilray and Bernie Williams. The Playhouse isn’t just where I work; it’s where my family and I create cherished memories with all
of you.
O68 Do you have a vision for the Ridgefield Playhouse? Any new programming or artists that you would like to spotlight?
AP In addition to our commitment to artistic excellence, I envision our venue as a catalyst for growth within the arts community and beyond. We are proud to be attracting new audiences to Ridgefield and impacting the overall growth and income for local businesses in town. We’re dedicated to actively seeking out partnerships and collaborations to expand our programming, reach new audiences, and enhance the impact of our performances. As a non-profit, our fundraising is always front and center and will lead us to even more meaningful collaborations, fundraising events, and celebrations. We are especially proud to reach 117,000+ school children to the Playhouse every year free of charge with our Arts in Education program. Next year we will be celebrating our 25th Anniversary, so we’ll be skipping the traditional Summer Fundraiser and focusing on one big Fall Gala with a huge artist- stay tuned!
