Ribbon Cut For Fairfield's SHU Community Theatre

FAIRFIELD, CT — Though it’s been open since Memorial Day weekend, Sacred Heart University’s Community Theatre made things official with a ceremony Thursday morning.

The town’s state delegation and some SHU representatives gathered outside the historic venue for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a tour of the facility.

“This is just another sign of the university’s commitment to the community,” SHU President John Petillo said, citing the work in partnership in the town to revitalize the venue as a live performance, film and education hub.

First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick also shared brief comments.

“For years this was shut and black,” she said. “It was an eyesore.”

She said that not only would the facility offer entertainment for visitors, but it would also serve as a hub for more community-related events, such as the swearing in of police officers.

“I can’t say enough," she said. "So many people have really stepped up to be part of this amazing transformation."

Friday night featured a special performance by area celebrity Javier Colon, winner of the NBC show “The Voice” in 2011, during its first season. He performed with his band, which regularly tours the world.

His show was opened by singer-songwriter Matt Cusson.

On Saturday Tony Award nominee Megan Hilty, who played Glinda in Broadway’s popular show “Wicked,” and also played the character Ivy Lynn in the TV show “Smash,” was scheduled for an evening performance.

On Sunday, the SHU Gospel Choir is set to appear with Angela Clemmons, a veteran singer who has performed with Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Michael Jackson, John Legend, and others.

The choir is directed by Michael Whitney Brown.

Other events will be held during September, including performances by cast members of Amateur Night at the Apollo. Among them will be Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Keyon Harrold.

From Sept. 6 to Sept. 11, the theater will commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11 with a series of dedicated films, including “Sky So Blue” and “Saint of 9/11.”

For more information, visit shucommunitytheatre.org.