Arts & Entertainment
Ridgefield Playhouse Announces Transition In Leadership
Ridgefield Playhouse Co-Executive Director, Jared Shahid, has announced his departure from the venue.
**News Release Submitted by Ridgefield Playhouse**
May 6, 2024
Ridgefield Playhouse is excited to announce a transition in its leadership structure. After five years of dedicated service and commitment, Co-Executive Director, Jared Shahid, has announced his departure from the venue.
During Shahid's tenure, Ridgefield Playhouse has seen remarkable growth and success and his passion and vision have greatly contributed to Ridgefield’s vibrant cultural community. Whether it was helping to guide the venue during the pandemic, programming 40% new artists in 2023 (which led to the venue’s best year on record), or booking acts as varied as Itzhak Perlman, Amy Schumer, and Anoushka Shankar, the venue reached new highs in recent years.
He has been named the incoming Executive Director of The Innovate, a state-of-the-art venue in Palm Beach slated to open in early 2025. “I have loved being a steward of this venue, and this community will always be home. I'm confident in the transition plan we have in place and will ensure the venue is fully programmed through early 2025 before I head South," said Shahid.
As part of this transition, Ashley Paltauf will take on the sole responsibility of Executive Director. Paltauf brings a wealth of strength, determination, and invaluable experience to her new position. With an impressive 11 years of dedicated service within the organization, she is exceptionally equipped to navigate the Playhouse through its next chapter of growth and success.
“We have been so fortunate to have both Ashley and Jared at the helm as the Playhouse continues to grow,” says Playhouse Board President Michael Shinall. “While we are sad to see Jared leave, we are thrilled for him to have this opportunity to open a new venue and build it from the ground up on his own. And we are incredibly lucky to have the continued leadership of Ashley as the Playhouse moves forward and the opportunities that lie ahead for the organization.”
The Ridgefield Playhouse is thrilled to honor Jared Shahid's remarkable tenure at its upcoming Summer Fundraiser on June 15th. The event will feature a special performance by The Goo Goo Dolls, promising an unforgettable evening of celebration and entertainment.
