As they celebrate their 25th Anniversary, the story of their impact on Fairfield and beyond comes to life through the incredible archives, photos, and memorabilia that fill the Retrospective exhibition gallery, curated by Iain Munley. “This installation celebrates the artists who stood on these stages, the children whose lives were shaped through our education programs, and the transformation of what was once an underutilized building into a vibrant arts center,” says Patsy Fox, CEO and Executive Director of Fairfield Theatre Company. Walking through the installation your are transported through the history of performances and community with this and the memories made here. The visual time capsule resonates with the truly special nature of this legacy.
From the beginning, FTC’s mission was to bring a high level of performing arts to the community, starting with its very first production of The Taming of the Shrew at the Quick Center for the Arts at Fairfield University. In 2006, they shifted their focus to music. Says Patsy, “To bridge the gaps between productions, the team began presenting live music and something remarkable happened. The response was overwhelming. What started as a complement to theater quickly became the anchor of our programming. The community embraced it, and a cultural institution was born.”
Over the years, Fairfield Theatre Company has evolved into a premier destination for live performance, known for the intimate atmosphere of StageOne, its 225-seat black box theater, and the state-of-the-art 640-seat venue, The Warehouse, built in 2016. Since then, they’ve produced more than 5,000 events, including performances outside their doors with outdoor concerts and beloved community traditions like Oktoberfest and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and have seen artists early in their careers visit from Trombone Shorty, The Lumineers, Goose, Twiddle, and The Revivalists to once in a lifetime moments like Buddy Guy, who once walked through a packed StageOne audience mid-song and sat down next to a patron while playing.
Just as important as being known for live music has been their impact on arts education and community partnerships throughout the area. “We’re a nonprofit cultural campus serving all ages — from students to seniors — through music, theatre, film, workshops, and shared experiences.” They have partnered with Black Rock Theatre Company to offer world-class theatrical performances. And the Summer Cabaret Camp, now in its 19th year, has become a Fairfield tradition, with students returning year after year and eventually becoming counselors. Also at the forefront of FTC is its robust film program. Many are familiar with their annual interactive showing of cult classics like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and their Oscar Shorts programming. The Midday Matinee Series features stage and screen legends in intimate performance and conversation, the Masterclass Series with industry professionals, cultural events, nonprofit fundraisers, and community celebrations. “A lot of people know us for concerts. They may not realize how much happens here during the day. There truly is something for everyone here.”
Fairfield Theatre Company contributes to the vibrancy and energy of Fairfield’s downtown, drawing visitors from all over, bringing meaningful economic impact to our restaurants, shops and local businesses. “A night at FTC; dinner at a local restaurant, a show, a stroll through town—creates the kind of experience people associate with major cultural cities like New York, Nashville, or Austin. The difference is: it’s right here in our backyard.” Patsy perfectly articulates.
What many people may be surprised to learn is that FTC is a non-profit and that membership directly sustains the arts in this community. This is the community arts center. The impact FTC has on our community is fueled by the people who live here. The member support surrounding FTC is what continues to make it truly special. It enriches our town on so many levels, helping with overall growth while reinforcing the importance of real community connection in an increasingly digital world.
FTC’s mission has always been to connect and enhance our community through the transforming power of the arts by investing in education, presenting diverse programming, keeping ticket prices accessible, and ensuring that the arts remain a cornerstone of civic life here in Fairfield. Membership truly sustains the arts in this community. Being part of this town's cultural cornerstone and the FTC family is a true member benefit.
With a packed and exciting Spring and Summer season, FTC audiences have a lot to look forward to, including a lineup of music performances ranging from national touring musicians to local singer-songwriters, a continuation of their film series and the Spring youth theater education program. We’re also looking forward to the unofficial kickoff to Summer with FTC’s Summer Jam celebration featuring favorite local bands on June 19. The vibes are aplenty.
Be sure to catch it all as we celebrate the 25 incredible years FTC has impacted Fairfield, and to help ensure the next 25. The music, the performances, and the amazing Retrospective are where all that legacy and connection come to life. Says Patsy, “For 25 years, FTC has been the beating heart of Fairfield, bringing people together and enriching our community. FTC’s story isn’t just about artists who played here. It’s about the people, the volunteers, donors, members, and audiences who built this place together. This anniversary belongs to the entire community.”
FTC
70 Sanford Street
Fairfield, CT
(203) 259-1035
fairfieldtheatre.org
"We’re a nonprofit cultural campus serving all ages — from students to seniors — through music, theatre, film, workshops, and shared experiences.”
For 25 years, FTC has been the beating heart of Fairfield, bringing people together and enriching our community.