Ridgefield's Stella Tompkins to Dance Lead Role in New York City Ballet's The Nutcracker! Plus Two Other Local Girls Enter their "Clara Era"
SHOPPING
CELEBRATING MAIN STREET'S BOOKS ON THE COMMON—AND HIGHLIGHTING ITS NEWEST GEM, DESIRES BY MIKOLAY PLUS THE ULTIMATE GIFT GUIDE FOR SHOPPING LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!
DECEMBER 2024
Photos by Alicia King Photography
Small Team In CT, 2024
Office in Ridgefield, CT by sales volume, 2023 #1
Brokerage in the US by sales volume, 2022-2024
From our home to yours, wishing you a wonderful and safe Holiday Season. All the best from the Karla Murtaugh Homes Team. #1
As the holiday season approaches, Ridgefield’s real estate market remains strong. Buyer interest remains high, and Ridgefield continues to attract both local and out-of-state buyers. Median and average home prices in Ridgefield remain stable, with some properties seeing modest price increases due to limited inventory. Ridgefield’s appeal shines during holidays and buyers are drawn to Ridgefield’s sense of community - At Karla Murtaugh Homes, we recognize the importance of making the right move. Whether buying or selling, partner with us for a successful and personalized experience. #1 Small Team in Connecticut, Real Trends Verified, 2024
December Publisher’s Letter
The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our town has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier and that also supports our local businesses. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy and love.
Happy Holidays!
BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER @RIDGEFIELDLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
Jennifer Zarine Photography, Dariusz Terepka Photography, Laura Ross
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
FRIDAY
DECEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Woodcock Nature Center's Fall Benefit, Under the Harvest Moon 1: Hooty the Great Horned Owl greets guests at the benefit 2: Cellar XV owner Betsy Thompson offers drinks to guests Liz and Paul Wronski 3: Woodcock Executive Director Lenore Herbst addresses the crowd 4: Present Company plays at Harvest Moon 5: Susie and Wessel Boshoff flank Cybele Malone, Executive Director of Aldrich Museum, and Steven Seltz 6: Wilton residents Lizzy Coursen, Chrissy Cavangnaro, Diane Mellars, Bill Cavangnaro, David Mellars, and John Coursen 7: Ridgefield residents from left: Sarah Smith, Dominique Foust, Amy Shackelford Schwarm, and Marlee Dickinson
Are you looking for help booking your next trip? We can help with that!
Bella Home
Bella Home is a cherished cornerstone of Ridgefield, serving as a one-stop shop for all your gifting needs for over 20 years. We proudly carry a unique selection of locally crafted artisan goods, seasonal decor, and stylish clothing for adults and babies. Each handpicked item is chosen to bring joy to both givers and receivers, making every occasion special. Stop in to discover timeless classics and delightful treasures that celebrate every season and holiday. bellahomeridgefield.com
Photography by Nicole Interlandi
Morph Med Spa
Using a combination of lifestyle modifications and the safest, most effective medical treatments, our mission at Morph Med Spa is to partner with you to achieve your body goals. Founder, Dr. Brittny Howell, MD, directs the team and specializes in medical weight loss and menopause care. Juliana Lametta, LPN, LME, is our skincare and body sculpting specialist. And Ridgefield mom, Amy Foxman, RN, recently joined as our aesthetic nurse injector! Book your consultation at morphmedspa.com
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Tazza Café
Tazza Café is a warm, inviting space known for its expertly brewed coffee, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service. With a loyal customer base, it’s a go-to for locals seeking quality drinks, fresh baked goods, and delicious salads, sandwiches and more. Stop in to unwind, do some work, or catch up with friends. And visit our sister location in Wilton, Nova Café, where elegant interiors and handcrafted beverages create an ambiance of pure relaxation. tazzacafeny.com, novacafeinc.us
Photography by Abby Cole Photography
Photography by Ana Milena Rueda
DESIRES BY MIKOLAY
Experience Main Street's Newest Gem of a Jewelry Store
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
It started with an Hermès scarf.
Wait, let’s back up.
It started with a meet cute.
Tara was a social worker, living in Rockland County, when she and her cousin went to Killington for New Year’s Eve. They
Tara stands at the front of Main Street's new jewelry Store Desires by Mikolay
“It looks like a hand-painted mural, but it’s actually wallpaper. It took me months to find! It feels like Ridgefield.”
couldn’t get into the bar they wanted—so they went to one across the street. Scott, who was living in Yorktown at the time, was also in Killington. And he couldn’t get into that bar either —so he, too, went to the one across the street. “Scott and I met and spent the whole night talking. We’ve been inseparable ever since!” Tara says, smiling.
Tara and Scott Mikolay opened their second jewelry store in Ridgefield this past October (their flagship store is in Chappaqua). Not only does Tara design jewelry, she designed the entire space. And Scott, with frequent trips across the street, worked to bring her vision to life. “Pam at the Ridgefield Hardware Store is pretty much my best friend,” he jokes.
Stepping into the stunning space, all of their effort is apparent. And the inspiration behind the whole look? An Hermès scarf. “I always take an Hermès scarf that feels inspirational to me, then I build the space around it,” Tara tells us. “This one has an equestrian
vibe,” she says, pointing to the framed scarf that hangs just inside the shop’s door. “I pass so many horse farms on my way to Ridgefield every day. So that felt fitting.”
The breathtaking space sparkles, and not simply because of what’s inside the jewelry cases (OK, not only because of that), starting with the flower installation in the front window, where dozens of hydrangea stems hang suspended from the ceiling. The walls are painted the perfect shade of blue, Vermont Slate (an homage to where Tara’s family is from and, of course, where her and Scott first met).
A lovely shell-inspired chandelier hangs in the back of the store. Local shop Colby’s custom-designed the rear window treatments. The majority of the jewelry cases are white, and they pop against the blue walls, giving the store a warm, fresh vibe.
But the showstopper is the 28-foot-long pastoral scene, which Tara sourced from an artist in England.
“It looks like a hand-painted mural, but it’s actually wallpaper,” Tara says. “It took me months to find the right scene! It feels like Ridgefield.”
Then, of course, there is the jewelry. Desires by Mikolay has it all: fashion collections with price points starting at $35, gorgeous leather-bound books, writing instruments, watches, leather bags, wallets, and show-stopping, jaw-dropping diamonds—with a few more zeros than the aforementioned price point.
Tara and Scott each have their own line of jewelry for sale in the store. Tara’s line has more of a spiritual vibe to it, with evil eyes and hearts. “Symbols that are edgy and cool, but very wearable. Everyday diamonds,” Tara tells us. Scott’s collection is more Old English style, inspired by the Renaissance. “To me, that was jewelry,” he says. His line is beautifully intricate, with lots of filigree work.
It’s hard to imagine this beautiful store—with its married duo of multitalented designers—almost didn’t happen. Remember? Tara was a social worker. And although Scott’s father was a bench jeweler, he didn’t want his son to follow in his footsteps. Alas, Scott was a very persistent (and persuasive) 14-year-old, and ended
Top: Scott stands in front of the pastoral scene
“We are not a stuffy jewelry store, we’re very approachable. We always want people to feel comfortable popping in to get their jewelry cleaned, we want to be of service to the community,”
up working with his father until the latter’s retirement in 2004. By that time, Scott and Tara were dating. He told her he wanted to open a repair business. Tara, who recognized his innate talent for design, urged him to instead open a full-service jewelry store.
“I told Scott I would leave my job for a year to help him open up a store. Then I would go back to social work," Tara reminisces. They opened in Chappaqua 20 years ago, and if you didn’t already guess, Tara never looked back.
Scott is the yin to Tara’s yang. “Opening the Ridgefield store was very different from the first time we did this. Over the years, we’ve grown together and grown more similar. So this time, we had the same shared vision,” Tara says.
Something the Ridgefield location shares with Chappaqua, though, is the Mikolays' desire to give back to the community. “It’s really important for us to support local and give back. For years we’ve participated in Shop for a Cause events,” Tara tells us. And they are looking forward to partnering and participating in various charitable programs in Ridgefield.
Stop by to do some holiday shopping, add to your own wish list, or get your rings cleaned. “We are not a stuffy jewelry store, we’re very approachable. We always want people to feel comfortable popping in to get their jewelry cleaned, we want to be of service to the community,” Tara adds.
The Ridgefield community is lucky to have this gem on Main Street.
RIDGEFIELD'S BELOVED SHOP ON THE CORNER
Books on the Common Celebrates 40 Years
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIUSZ TEREPKA PHOTOGRAPHY
“Physical books are still with us, and will be with us for a long time.”
Ridgefield’s beloved independent bookstore, Books on the Common, celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. Ellen Burns and Darwin Ellis, who are married and who run the shop together, have owned the store for the last 20 years.
The story of Books on the Common began in 1984, when Bob and Sally Silbernagel first opened in the brand-new Copps Hill Common (now The Marketplace) on Danbury Road. While it was the Silbernagels’ lifelong dream to run a bookstore, Burns and Ellis came by their ownership rather circuitously.
Ellis has a PhD in Physics and worked at Schlumberger (now SLB), in Ridgefield, and Burns was a CPA (Silbernagel was her tax client). They were devoted customers of the store, and when Ellis’ company relocated to Massachusetts in 2004, the couple decided to buy Books on the Common and begin their Second Act—this time as small business owners.
Books on the Common is a magical place. It has everything you could ever want in a charming bookstore—shelves overflowing with stacks of books, cozy nooks and crannies with chairs to sit and browse through pages, sweet, seasonal decorations and book displays. Even the creaky hardwood floor sounds delightful underfoot while you meander through the aisles, searching for your next read.
The space Books on the Common now inhabits is so quintessentially a bookstore, it’s impossible to imagine this location ever being anything else. Alas, the store didn’t open on Main Street until 2009. “When this space became available, we jumped on it because it’s really important to have foot traffic in any retail business—but particularly in the book business,” Burns tells us.
While the music industry has had to endure many iterations in the last century (records, cassettes, CDs, MP3s, and now digital)—books hadn’t significantly evolved since the printing press was invented. Then, in 2007, Amazon launched the Kindle—and with it, eBooks. Independent bookstores, which were already teetering after the rise of box stores like Borders and Barnes & Noble, shuttered their doors in droves. Physical book sales plummeted…but Books on the Common persevered.
Burns, chuckling wryly, says, “The ever-brilliant Bezos said this was going to be the end of the printed book. He may have been right about a lot of things, but he wasn’t right about that!” She continues, “People want to read real books. Kids want to read real books, teenagers want to read real books.” And publishers, to the delight of independent booksellers, are producing stunning statement pieces that demand to be bought, read, and displayed.
Case in point? Emily Henry’s bestselling novel, Beach Read . Four years after debuting in paperback, Penguin Random House rereleased the book as a hardcover Deluxe Edition, with a shimmering, gold foil stamped cover, sunset sky art endpapers, and sprayed edges.
Offering further proof of print’s resurgence, Burns references an article she recently read in The New York Times. ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, made moves into digital publishing last year. Now their publishing imprint, 8th Note Press—which focuses on genres popular on BookTok (romantasy, young adult fiction, and romance)—has announced they will begin printing physical books. Burns says, “The fact is that physical books are still with us, and will be with us for a long time, in my opinion.”
Audiobooks have surged in popularity in recent years, and you may not know this, but there is an alternative to Audible—one that supports independent bookstores. Burns explains that Libro.fm (which is both the name of the company and their URL, so streamlined!) was founded in 2014 as a means of letting customers purchase audiobooks and still support their favorite independent bookstores. When you visit Libro.fm, you can select Books on the Common as your preferred store, and they will get a portion of the sales.
In addition to a dedicated staff of six (plus two high school students) who are brimming with book recommendations, the incomparable coziness and warm atmosphere the store exudes, and its convenient location (you can’t buy a last minute gift online), Books on the Common also offers various rewards programs.
First is their Frequent Buyers Club program for kids and young adult books. Burns explains, “For every ten
books you purchase, you get credit for the average of what you purchased against anything in the store.” Next is their Book Club program. “When you register your book club, we order the books, put them on the book club shelf, people can come in and buy them and get a 15% discount.” Finally, they participate in the Gold Card program in town. Residents who are 65 and over can bring their license to Town Hall where they will receive a complimentary Gold Card. This card can be presented at various businesses around town for a discount.
Beyond their rewards programs, Books on the Common partners with the library to host author events. Jean Hanff Korelitz, author of The Plot and the newly released, very appropriately named The Sequel, will be in town for an event on January 16th at 7 p.m at the library. And another bestselling author, Fiona Davis, will visit Ridgefield in April.
This independent bookstore is more than just a bookstore. Burns and Ellis have done so much in service of our community. Burns felt there should be a Ridgefield visitor’s map available for free in stores, so she took it upon herself to commission one.
Then, a handful of years ago, Burns was chatting with a friend who lived in Western Massachusetts. Her friend told her how Great Barrington was designated as a cultural district. She thought, "Oh that's interesting, we have a lot of arts and culture in Ridgefield. I wonder if Connecticut has such a designation.”
Connecticut did not. So Burns reached out to John Frey, who was a state representative at the time, and he drafted the law. The Economic & Community Development Commission brought Burns’ idea to fruition. The Ridgefield Cultural District was the very first in the state of Connecticut, established in 2021.
Books on the Common will be open for the Holiday Stroll on Friday, December 6th. Burns tells us they do 30-35% of their annual sales between Thanksgiving and
Christmas. And while surrounding shops may duck out early on Christmas Eve, they remain open (relatively) late. “Christmas Eve is so much fun. We always stay open until 5 o’clock, or until the last procrastinator leaves,” she laughs. And, bonus alert, “We gift wrap!”
They have a gift for everyone on your holiday shopping list. The latest Diary of a Wimpy Kid for your 3rd grader. Usborne mess free painting books for your niece. Ina Garten’s new memoir for the epicurean in your life. Cookbooks, travel guides, scarves printed with text from beloved books for your bibliophile BFF. And if you simply can’t choose, they offer beautiful gift certificates in any amount.
Ridgefield is so lucky to have Burns and Ellis at the helm of our town’s delightful bookstore, and the feeling is mutual. “We’re really grateful to the community of Ridgefield and the surrounding towns that have continued to support an independent bookstore for 40 years. We hope to keep it going for a long time.” We hope so too.
Gift Local
Are you hopelessly behind on your holiday shopping? Don't fret, we've put together the ultimate gift guide so you can cross off everyone on your list—and the best part? Every single business is right here in Ridgefield! So keep calm and get your local shopping on this holiday season.
FOR THE PERSON WHO NEEDS SERENITY NOW
Plank Ridgefield is now open on Main Street! Give the gift of serenity— with a little spice—this holiday season with a Plank Ridgefield bundle. Perfect for teachers, caregivers, besties, or anyone who could use a break, Plank's holiday packs serve up fitness, retail therapy, and a cozy café hang. With magical childcare in the mix, it's the ultimate 'me time' treat for everyone on your list! 389 Main Street, plankridgefield.com
Susie Laura Massage has been helping Ridgefield relax since 2008! Stop by for a gift certificate and give a loved one the thing they really want during
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS
Plank Ridgefield is now open, Photo by Amy Drucker Photography
the holidays: heavenly peace. 20 Prospect Street, susilauramassage.com
MedicinalSkin is a beloved mecca as far as local spas go. Their facials are top notch. Give the gifts of serenity and skin care so the recipient can start off the new year with a glow. 80 Grove Street, medicinalskin.com
FOR THE ARTISTICALLY INCLINED
Give the gift of theater this holiday season! Purchase tickets or a gift card to A.C.T. of CT’s upcoming Broadway-caliber productions, including Fiddler on the Roof, Waitress , and a brand new dance production entitled Few Words: A Dance Cycle . This is truly Broadway in Our Backyard! 36 Old Quarry Road, actofct.org
Gift a membership to The Aldrich , the only museum in Connecticut solely dedicated to the presentation of contemporary art. Celebrating its 60th year, the museum just opened its brand-new sculpture garden. 258 Main Street, thealdrich.org
Tickets to a show at Ridgefield Playhouse. Musical acts, comedians, theater—the Ridgefield Playhouse has it all. Give the gift of an evening’s entertainment. 80 East Ridge Road, ridgefieldplayhouse.org
FOR THE EPICUREAN
109 Cheese & Wine is dedicated to curating the finest cheese, charcuterie, wine and gourmet products available. Their dedicated foodie staff is on hand to help select the perfect gift. 109 Danbury Road, 109cheeseandwine.com
Tucked away on Bailey Avenue, Elizabella’s Bake Shop, features cookies freshly baked on site, a lovely assortment of teas, and many other delightful distractions for the baker in your life. 13 Bailey Avenue, elizabellasbakeshop.com
Luc's Café gift certificates are a magnifique idea for the Francophile foodie in your life. Open for nearly 25 years in the heart of Ridgefield, Luc’s never disappoints. Bon appétit! 3 Big Shop Lane, lucscafe.com
FOR THE YOUNGER GENERATION
Z Boutique is a brand-new children’s store in town, offering a blend of domestic and European brands. Stop in for a unique gift, or a holiday outfit! Their fresh selection of clothing, accessories, and toys is a-dorable. 15 Bailey Avenue
She La La recently relocated, and a bigger space means a larger selection of children and tween offerings. From pajamas, to sparkly headbands, to all natural play makeup, She La La has charming gifts for the kids in your life (and for you, too). 404 Main Street, shelala.com
The Toy Chest is a Main Street staple. In addition to their unsurpassed selection of toys, they also have puzzles galore, educational gifts, and arts and crafts. Bonus: complimentary gift-wrapping. 441 Main Street, thetoychestct.com
Tiger Sports not only offers Ridgefield High School Tigers spirit wear, but Ridgefield spirit wear too! Gift some hometown pride with a hoodie, an etched coffee mug, or even a stuffy. 27 Catoonah Street, catoonahink.com
FOR THE PERSON WHO LOVES TO MAKE THE WHOLE PLACE SHIMMER
Desires by Mikolay is Main Street’s newest gem. Sparkling jewelry, twinkling candles, and shiny leather bags—you’ll undoubtedly leave this brand-new shop with a stunning gift for your special someone. 394 Main Street, desiresbymikolay.com
Elegant Ridgefield caters to special occasions, offering a selection of dresses, wraps, scarves, handbags, shoes, and accessories. Stop in for your holiday party fit, and grab a gift while you’re at it. 92 Grove Street, elegantridgefield.com
FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS LITERALLY EVERYTHING
The Holiday Boutique in the Barn at Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center features thoughtfully curated gifts, décor, and one-of-a-kind offerings from local artisans. Discounts available on select merchandise for Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center members. And after you pick up the perfect gift, purchase admission to tour the museum and learn about the fascinating history of this local site! 152 Main Street, keelertavernmuseum.org/events Ridgefield Guild of Artists: Festive Home showcases hand-crafted items including jewelry, knitwear, CONTINUED >
Give the gift of 109 Cheese & Wine to the epicurean in your life,
Photo by Ashley Grusauskas
ceramics, ornaments, and more! Stop by if you're in search of a unique, creative gift. 34 Halpin Lane, rgoa.org/exhibitions/ festive-home-2024
Ally Bally Bee is an artists’ co-op, a marketplace filled with wonderful creations suitable for all occasions and every price point. Jewelry, home goods, and locally made lifestyle products are there for the gifting! 45 Ethan Allen Highway, ally-bally-bee.com
FOR THE SARTORIALLY MINDED
Pop by Underground Co for women’s fashion and home goods that are modern, versatile and accessible—with just the right amount of edge! 384 Main Street, undergroundco.shop
Chou Chou offers a carefully edited product selection to make shopping effortless and enjoyable. Their seaside and
suburban vibe has everything from coastal-scented candles to MOTHER denim. 16 Bailey Avenue, shopchouchou.com
FOR THE VINTAGE LOVER
Silver Lining Consignments specializes in antiques, furniture, art, jewelry, and home furnishings. Merchandise is always changing! 470 Main Street, silverliningconsignments.com
Vixen Hill Vintage is a collective of 3 female-owned businesses offering handpicked selections of vintage decor, clothing, and jewelry. 346 Ethan Allen Highway
Ridgefield Thrift Shop supports local non-profits through recycling, repurposing, and reselling generously donated goods! Go on a treasure hunt to find the perfect gift. 21B Governor Street, ridgefieldthriftshop.com . Happy shopping!
Elizabella's Bake Shop decorated for the holidays Photo Courtesy of Founders Hall
Stella Tompkins will dance the lead role of Marie in New York City Ballet's production of The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center. Photo by Jennifer Zarine Photography
N U TCRACKERS ACROSSTOW N
THREE LOCAL GIRLS DANCE THE ROLE OF A LIFETIME
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ZARINE PHOTOGRAPHY AND OTHERS
"I can't wait to play Clara!"
—Olivia
Geluso
Stella Tompkins took her first ballet lesson at NY Kids Club in Long Island City when she was two years old. Nine years later, Stella, who is a 6th grader at East Ridge Middle School, has been cast as Marie, the lead role in the world’s most beloved Christmastime ballet, The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker debuted in Russia in 1892, and while Tchaikovsky’s score was instantly well-received, reviews of the first performances were less than stellar. It wasn’t until 1954, when George Balanchine—one of the most renowned choreographers in the history of ballet— reworked and modified the show that it became a holiday classic. Now, 70 years later, Stella is taking center stage as Marie in New York City Ballet’s production at Lincoln Center.
Are you thinking, “Wait, who is Marie?”
If so, you aren’t alone. While “Clara” is the more well-known name of the girl who comes of age on Christmas Eve, “Marie” is the name specific to Balanchine’s New York City Ballet production. Stella’s mother,
Jacqueline, remembers how confusing this was when her daughter first tried out for the role three years ago. Stella, along with a handful of other girls, came out telling their parents they had been auditioning for the role of Marie. “All the parents were like, ‘Oh cool! Great! Who’s that? ’” Because we were thinking Clara! So we were all Googling, Who is Marie?” When they realized, their confusion quickly turned into excitement.
While Stella was cast as a Party Girl that year, one of the girls playing Marie fell ill with Covid, so Stella was asked to understudy, learning the part in only three days. Last year, Stella was again hoping for Marie, but was happy to dance the role of a Polichinelle. “They all want to get the good parts, but the girls are used to being let down. There are a lot of shows and a lot of casting opportunities, a lot of auditions!” Jacqueline tells us.
From the time she was a toddler, Stella has not stopped dancing. She's studied ballet at various studios, including Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance on Main
Olivia Geluso will dance the lead role of Clara for Dance Factory Ridgefield's production of The Nutcracker. Photo by Laura Ross
Street, and American Ballet Theater in New York City. When her parents learned the application age at the School of American Ballet had been lowered to six, they brought her to try out.
The School of American Ballet, founded in 1934 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, is the preeminent ballet school in the United States. Stella’s dream is to one day dance with the New York City Ballet (NYCB). She was one of about 100 children accepted into the program the year she applied (thousands auditioned). And her hard work over the last five years has certainly paid off. She made her Lincoln Center debut as a Page in A Midsummer Night’s Dream when she was nine. This was the watershed moment for her. She beams, recalling, “That’s when I knew I wanted to do this forever!”
This year, her third attempt for the role of Marie, has proven to be the charm. Tryouts began in late September. On October 5th, Stella learned the good news. “When my parents got the email, we were performing on stage in Mozartiana, so we had no idea,” she says. “I was with my friend, who also got Marie, and we were jumping up and down! We were so excited!” (Two Maries are chosen each year because of the grueling schedule and late nights. Stella explains, “I couldn’t dance in all of the shows because that would be almost every single day!”)
The Nutcracker premieres at Lincoln Center on Friday, November 29th and will run through Saturday, January 4th. Tickets can be purchased by visiting nycballet.com.
Although this year will undoubtedly be her most memorable, the stage at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater isn’t the first time Stella performed in The Nutcracker. When she was three, she danced as a Bonbon in the production alongside her cousin, Olivia Geluso, here in Ridgefield. In a serendipitous turn of events that seems sprinkled with sugar plum fairy dust, Geluso is also the lead in this year’s performance of The Nutcracker. She will be taking center stage as Clara at The Klein Memorial Auditorium with Dance Factory Ridgefield (DFR). “The cousins are in their Clara Era!” Olivia’s mom, Lauren, tells us, smiling.
Olivia, who is 11 and a 5th grader at Ridgebury Elementary, also started dancing when she was a toddler. Although she loves ballet, she wanted to try contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop, so she joined DFR in 2021. Olivia loves everything about the studio. “The dancing, all of her teachers, the positive, safe environment that DFR fosters, the friends, it’s all been amazing,” Lauren says.
The feeling is mutual. Executive Artistic Director, Kristin Leggio, tells us, “It has been beyond rewarding to witness Olivia’s tremendous growth as a dancer and as a performer. She has an extremely bright future in dance and I am so honored to be part of her journey.”
Leggio restructured the studio that would become Dance Factory Ridgefield in 2018, and one of her top priorities was
“I remember being in The Nutcracker, I was a white mouse. I was dancing with Clara and I thought: I want to be her when I’m older.”
—Francesca Prudente
to stage a Nutcracker production. Working alongside Peter Nevin, Brianna Gitnik, and Karlie Zabin, they created original choreography for their new version. Full of twists, the show is set in modern times, not Victorian, with the dancers donning contemporary clothing. The backdrops are digital, allowing for various dynamic, animated moments throughout the show.
And in a very au courant move, Leggio says, “We have a Mouse Queen instead of a Mouse King.”
Olivia, who is also an accomplished, award-winning soloist in DFR's Junior Company and Competition Team, never stops dancing. When she has a break from her demanding rehearsal schedule, she sets up her own studio at home in the living room or the basement, complete with an audience of one—her twin brother, James. “He is her biggest fan, and sometimes even her dancing partner!” Lauren says.
DFR’s production of The Nutcracker evolves each year, but since 2021, their performance has been staged at The Klein
Memorial Auditorium in Bridgeport. Leggio says, “We love having our shows at The Klein because it truly is a special night out at the Theater. It’s a wonderful way to get into the spirit and magic of the holiday season.”
This year’s crowd will certainly be a bit bigger than Olivia’s home audience of one, but her family and friends will be there to support her. And she can’t wait. “This is one of the greatest opportunities of my life and my dream come true! I can't wait to play Clara!” she beams.
DFR’s performance of The Nutcracker will take place at The Klein on Saturday, December 7th at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available at theklein.org for seating at the theater, or you can purchase a livestream ticket and watch the show from home.
Main Street is home to another ballet school (Ridgefield’s longest-running), with its own storied Nutcracker history. In 1965, Patricia Schuster opened a small dance studio, which would go on to become Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance. Her dreams for this school included bringing a
Francesca Prudente and Mateo Soni working on their pas de deux.
Photo by Mary Beth Hansohn
full-length production of The Nutcracker to town.
Amy Piantaggini, who has been Executive Director since 2013, tells us how the ballet school became a nonprofit in 2002—one of few in the region. Later that year, Schuster’s dream was realized, and a bigger and better production of The Nutcracker was staged at Ridgefield Playhouse. Now, Piantaggini tells us, around 80 performers are included in the show annually. This year, Francesca Prudente will dance in the role of Clara.
Francesca, who is 12 and lives in Bedford Hills, started taking ballet when she was 2 at her local studio. “I remember being in The Nutcracker, I was a white mouse. I was dancing with Clara and I thought: I want to be her when I’m older.” Francesca has realized her goal, telling us, with poise and maturity beyond her years, “It’s always been my dream! I’ve been working really hard, and I’ve been manifesting this for a long time.”
Mary Beth Hansohn, a retired ballerina, is an instructor at Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance as well as their Nutcracker Director. Taking the helm of the production in 2021, Hansohn rechoreographed the entire show herself in two weeks. Hansohn smiles, remembering, “I came in and had so much fun with the kids, because up until then I was teaching them,
but I had never had that artistic freedom with them!”
Hansohn is taking full advantage of that artistic freedom this year, adding some pas de deux, or partnering work, for Clara and the Prince, who is played by Mateo Soni. She tells us, “We’re amping it up a little bit. It’s nice to showcase their strengths, but it’s also really great to give them things to challenge them and help them grow.”
The Holiday Stroll on Friday, December 6th will offer passersby a preview of this year's performers. They will be donning their Nutcracker costumes and posing in the windows of the studio. At 7 p.m., the studio will transform into a black box theater, and viewers will have a sneak peek of the forthcoming production.
Grace Prudente, Francesca’s mom, tells us, "I am incredibly proud of Francesca’s dedication and the happiness she finds in every dance class, rehearsal and performance. It’s a joy to see her dreams come to life as Clara in The Nutcracker. I'm excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for her in this beautiful art form!"
Francesca, adds, "It’s a dream come true, definitely!”
Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance’s production of The Nutcracker will open at the Ridgefield Playhouse on Friday, 12/13 and will run through Sunday, 12/15. Tickets can be purchased online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org.
Francesca Prudente will dance the lead role of Clara for Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance's production of The Nutcracker. Photo by Grace Prudente
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
DECEMBER 2ND - 15TH
Woodcock Nature Center
Wreath Decorating
Woodcock Nature Center
Have you ever decorated a balsam wreath with dried orange slices, cedar roses, or feathers? If not, you’re in for a treat. Woodcock Nature Center’s biggest fundraiser of the year provides everything you need to make a stunning wreath, including the roaring fire (for ambiance). To-go kits are available and two family days are scheduled, visit woodcocknaturecenter.org/ wreathfestivalinfo for additional details.
DECEMBER 6TH AND 7TH
Ridgefield’s Holiday Stroll
Downtown Ridgefield
Ridgefield’s beloved holiday event returns! The magic of the season kicks off Friday night. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, listen to Victorian carolers singing classic holiday songs, and shop local as stores on Main Street stay open late. The festivities continue on Saturday! The whole family can enjoy a day of live holiday performances and festive activities throughout town.
DECEMBER 8TH
The Ridgefield Chorale Holiday Pops Concert
Ridgefield Playhouse | 4:00 PM
Come and enjoy a concert of contemporary songs of the season with The Ridgefield Chorale. Casual, charming, and fun, this is an afternoon of seasonal favorites for all ages. Concert proceeds benefit Ability Beyond. Purchase tickets online by visiting ridgefieldplayhouse. org/event/the-ridgefield-choraleholiday-pops
