Founded in 2018 by Daniel C. Levine, Katie Diamond, and Bryan Perri, ACT of CT, now in its sixth season, continues to captivate audiences with Broadway-caliber productions right here in Ridgefield, CT. Beyond delivering unforgettable theatrical experiences, ACT of CT is deeply committed to community outreach and giving back.
Spearheading the creative direction is Daniel C. Levine, Artistic Director of ACT, who reflects on their inception, "When we first envisioned establishing our professional theater in Ridgefield, we were uncertain if audiences would embrace it. Fortunately, Ridgefield's exceptional community demonstrated overwhelming support for the arts, non-profit organizations, and its residents. Ridgefield is remarkable in that way."
ACT of CT's mainstage season, September to June annually, showcases star-studded productions. In addition to its renowned Conservatory Program and sought-after New Works Program, the theater hosts the popular "Broadway Unplugged" Series, where TONY Winning celebrities join Resident Music Supervisor Bryan Perri for exclusive performances.
However, the theater's extensive involvement in the local community often goes unnoticed. Ridgefield’s First Selectman Rudy Marconi praises ACT of CT, stating, "They don't just talk about giving back; they embody it. Their support for other local organizations showcases their dedication to Ridgefield. It is remarkable to see how this theater has not only become a center of theatrical excellence but also an ardent supporter of the people of our town.”
ACT of CT has evolved into a theatrical powerhouse, producing twenty large-scale musicals, earning a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album ("Snapshots"), and having filmed versions of their productions featured on the BroadwayHD’s streaming platform for worldwide and on-demand viewing. Levine’s adaptation of Stephen Schwartz's 1970s show "Working" (produced at ACT of CT in 2019) is now represented by a major theatrical licensing agency and regional theaters across the country are now producing and presenting the ACT version of the show.
The theater also played a key role in the development of "Austen’s Pride," featured in both their New Works Series and mainstage productions, which debuted at Carnegie Hall this past June. Daniel C. Levine received the CT Critics Circle Award for Best Director of a Musical for "The Secret Garden," while the recent production of "Sunset Boulevard" received critical acclaim that would rival any glowing Broadway review.
Levine reflects on the theater's achievements, stating, "I am most proud that ACT of CT has become woven into this exceptional community's fabric. Our accomplishments in less than six years are truly remarkable." Bryan Perri (whose credits include the Broadway productions of “Wicked,” “Jagged Little Pill,” and “Almost Famous”) emphasizes the role of the arts in connecting communities, especially after the lessons learned during the pandemic.
“Being able to be leaders and participants in the Ridgefield arts scene is a responsibility that we take seriously and that we recognize as a privilege,” Perri says. “The arts build strong and connected communities and it’s important that everyone is able to benefit from this.”
Erin Craig, ACT of CT’s Producing Director and co-executive leader, expresses gratitude for the town's support and community spirit. She states, "The culture of community support is something I am proud to be a part of. 'Giving back' is an absolute honor."
To make theater accessible to all, ACT of CT introduced the First ACT! program. This initiative supports individuals, families, students, and working artists of diverse backgrounds, ensuring equal access to theatrical opportunities. The program also backs its Audience Access initiative, providing free attendance to traditionally underserved schools and communities.
The program is entirely funded by the generosity of private donors. Shelley Terry, Development Director, emphasizes the importance of fundraising events, such as the upcoming Gala on June 7, 2024, to sustain the theater and to continue with its mission stating, “Many people don’t realize that ticket sales to our productions only cover 40% of our annual operating budget. Fundraising, sponsorships, and donations are of the utmost importance to help fund ACT of CT and to keep our theater alive and well.”
For more information on ACT of CT, visit www.actofct.org.
Rudy Marconi praises ACT of CT, stating, "They don't just talk about giving back, they embody it.