This month, we turn the Klieg light on the Fairfield Theatre Company, celebrating our deep appreciation for this exceptional arts center. FTC not only brings Fairfield a first-class roster of incredible performances and events year-round but also infuses the town with a vibrant spirit and undeniable cool factor. Recently, we had the pleasure of chatting with longtime Fairfield Theatre Company Board Member Brad Purcell to learn more about this town jewel.
FLM: How did the Fairfield Theatre Company get its start, and how has your mission evolved?
BP: The original vision 25 years ago was to bring professional theatre from New York City to Fairfield. We had early success on this front, but sustaining theatre required underwriting and a market willing to embrace it. Neither was in place. One of our co-founders, Miles Marek, believed that live music is a form of intellectual expression. He dared to explore whether our community had an appetite for it. The rest is history. FTC quickly morphed into one of Southern CT's most beloved venues for live music. But what's less widely known is that FTC is more than just music. Our programming has now expanded to include film, comedy, art, educational programs, cultural events, and theatre. What started as a small performing space for off-Broadway theatre evolved into a center for the arts in downtown Fairfield. Our mission has always been to connect and enrich our community through the profound power of the arts.
FLM: I often hear the Fairfield Theatre Company referred to as a gem. What makes it a gem?
BP: We hear it a lot, both from fans and from artists. What makes FTC special is not just the high-quality listening room and the level of talent we attract. It’s also a transformative experience. When you walk through our doors, you leave your everyday worries behind. FTC allows you to get away from your devices and be in the moment. It enables you to enjoy something artful, cerebral, entertaining and just plain fun. FTC also helps build community by bringing together people of all persuasions, political or otherwise. In an increasingly divided world, our original tagline has more meaning than ever. “Get out. Come together”.
FLM: You now have two venues. What's the difference between the two?
BP: StageOne is our original venue and the crown jewel of listening rooms. It's considered a "must-play" room by hundreds of musicians touring the region. It's a 225-capacity black box theatre that artists say feels like their living room. We quickly outgrew our capacity at StageOne and with the help of generous donors, we built The Warehouse, a 640-person capacity configurable venue that opened in 2015. Long-time Fairfield residents might remember this space as "the Rec Center." Well, now it's one of New England's most highly acclaimed live music venues. We have produced over 5,000 events between the two venues over the last 25 years.
FLM: What makes the theater unique compared to other venues in the area? What makes the venue special for performers and audiences alike?
BP: It’s our not-for-profit, member-supported model that sets us apart. Without the generosity of members, donors, and sponsors, many of the non-music programs central to our mission wouldn’t be possible. We’re powered by the community, for the community. Then there’s the magic of our spaces. Performers rave about the acoustics, intimacy, and the way our team makes them feel like part of the FTC family. Audiences? They love that FTC offers a world-class, NYC-caliber experience—right in their backyard.
FLM: What’s the most unforgettable performance you’ve hosted here? Can you share a story about a particularly memorable or impactful event?
BP: That’s a tough one. We’ve hosted everything from jazz to jam bands. Standout performances include those from renowned bands like Jason Mraz, Litte Feat, 10,000 Maniacs, The English Beat, Keb’ Mo’, The Lone Bellow and Hot Tuna. But often, it’s the sense of discovery that makes a show truly unforgettable — whether it’s an opening act stealing the spotlight or catching an artist on the cusp of stardom. We’ve been fortunate to witness early performances from bands that have gone on to tour nationally and internationally. Acts like Trombone Shorty, The Lumineers, Goose, Twiddle, and The Revivalists all started out playing intimate venues like StageOne, creating moments that remind us why live music is so special. If I had to pick one most memorable moment, it has to be when Buddy Guy waded his way through a full house at StageOne while strumming his wireless soulful guitar, sat down next to a surprised patron, and sang “The Thrill is Gone” in honor of BB King. The crowd erupted in standing applause, knowing we had witnessed something special to treasure in that truly intimate setting.
FLM: How does FTC impact the local community?
BP: FTC is a cultural cornerstone, enriching the community with accessible music, film, theater, and children’s programs that connect people in ways that are hard to measure—but easy to feel. Economically, our venues attract visitors across Fairfield County, driving local business and energizing downtown Fairfield. For nearly 25 years, FTC has been more than a venue—it’s been Fairfield County’s family room, where strangers become friends, artists find their voice, and the community thrives. Performance space. Arts incubator. Economic engine. Fairfield icon.
We’ve given downtown Fairfield an edge that other towns envy. We’re also proud to support charities like Connecticut Challenge, Operation Hope, and Make-A-Wish Foundation, helping them raise millions through events hosted at our venues. And yes, we’re your go-to spot for mitzvahs, milestone birthdays, and unforgettable celebrations—offered at a modest rental fee!
FLM: Are there any behind-the-scenes challenges audiences might not realize?
BP: Our biggest challenges are the shifting entertainment landscape and the constant need for funding. People have so many options for spending their entertainment dollars now, with new venues popping up and even Live Nation opening one town over. We're like David, facing multiple Goliaths. Many assume FTC is thriving because they see sold-out shows. But ticket sales cover less than half of our costs. The rest comes from grants, sponsorships, donations, and memberships. The pandemic hit us hard, and we're still working to recover our lost members.
That's why we've launched our ambitious Every Household a Member campaign, aiming to double membership from 1,200 to 3,000 within a year. FTC is a gem; people tell us they can't imagine Fairfield without it. We invite you to join us in making sure every household is a part of this incredible journey—it's less than the cost of dinner in town! Visit www.fairfieldtheatre.org to become a member. Let's keep the music playing, the stories unfolding, and the magic alive—together.
70 Sanford St, Fairfield, CT 06824
(203) 259-1036
fairfieldtheatre.org
Without the generosity of members, donors, and sponsors, many of the non-music programs central to our mission wouldn’t be possible. We’re powered by the community, for the community.