The Leir Foundation Arts in Education (AIE) Program, now in its 23rd Season, introduces students, no matter their economic background, to the arts – for FREE – through a full roster of one hour curriculum-related shows.
Ridgefield Playhouse is proud to be fostering accessibility and affordability of arts education throughout Connecticut and New York. We believe that advancing the arts is an essential element of schooling and lifelong learning, as students are encouraged to explore diverse perspectives and expand their imaginations.
Through the enthusiasm of our Playhouse community, we have established one of the most significant Arts in Education programs in the Northeast.
Ridgefield Playhouse AIE Program is in memory of Henry and Erna Leir.
Held
44
FREE LIVE AND VIRTUAL PERFORMANCES
HOSTED
17,500
In-person students and teachers & reached over 200,000 more with virtual views
Distributed
8,000+
FREE Books as a part of our newest initiative, From Page To Stage
HOSTED
2,600
STUDENT LUNCHES
COVERED
57
SCHOOL BUSES
CONDUCTED
26
CLASSROOM WORKSHOPS
To continue making this considerable impact for thousands of children, we ask that you join us in this effort by making a contribution.
WE EXPRESS OUR SINCERE GRATITUDE TO THE FOLLOWING DONORS FOR SUPPORTING THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE ARTS IN EDUCATION (AIE) PROGRAM
AIE BENEFACTORS: The Leir Foundation: In Memory of Henry & Erna Leir, Anonymous, 9th Annual Bernie Williams Day, Books on the Common, Fairfield County Bank, and Ridgefield Thrift Shop.
AIE PARTNERS: Barbara Benton Davis Fund at Fairfield County Community Foundation, The Box of Rain Foundation, The Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Foundation Inc, Anita & Nick Donofrio, Emerson Charitable Trust on behalf of Branson Ultrasonics, Carol & Tom Newman, and Union Savings Bank.
AIE PATRONS: Anonymous, Eve Aronow, The Barker Welfare Foundation, Lori & John Berisford, Robin Brody, Deborah & Dan De Clercq, Christina & Robert DiTullio, The Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust, Liz & Steven Goldstone, Ives Bank, Lillian Kraemer, The Paltauf Family, The Perlmutter Family Foundation, Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Division, Sherie Snyder & Angus Vail, and Stew Leonard’s.
AIE FRIENDS: Christopher Arndt, J. Gavin Donnelly, Vivian Hoffman, Ellie Hull, Chelsea & Damian Humphrey, Luc’s Cafe, Meek Foundation, Performing Arts Conservatory of New Canaan, Robert Perkin, Janet & Joseph Rabideau, Roger Restaino, Haig Shahverdian, Cecilia Shirk, Nancy Simpkins, and Ava Sukenik.