Historic Shakespeare Theater Destroyed In Massive Fire

STRATFORD, CT — The historic Shakespeare Theater is no more after an overnight fire destroyed the iconic structure. The fire began at 1 a.m. and was still smoldering until nearly 8 a.m.

The Stratford Fire Department responded to several calls shortly before 1:00 am Sunday of a fire at the location of the American Shakespeare Theater.

Stratford Fire, Police and EMS crews responded to the scene. They were aided by the Milford and Bridgeport Fire Departments. A large fire soon engulfed the entire building, and despite the quick actions of first responders, the building is a total loss.

“The loss of this iconic and historic theater that holds a special place in the hearts of Stratford residents is devastating,” said Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick. “Our first concern is ensuring safety, making sure the site is secured and that there is no further threat to public safety. This fire continues to be under investigation to determine the exact cause of this fire, and we will be working in concert with state officials in that effort.

“I want to thank the dedicated personnel of our Fire, Police and EMS Departments as well as those from neighboring Milford and Bridgeport for their quick actions to keep our residents safe in response to this emergency, and I would also like to extend my thanks to the emergency responders in Fairfield, Shelton and Bridgeport who assisted with town-wide coverage in Stratford while our assets were deployed,” she added.

UPDATE: Investigation Continues Into Destructive Shakespeare Theatre Fire

The state Fire Marshal’s office deployed a canine unit this morning to the site to search for any accelerants that may have contributed to the fire.

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The theater opened in 1955 and has been visited by famous actors and actresses including Katharine Hepburn, the Connecticut Post reports. The theater largely stopped showing plays in the 1980s and there has been talk for decades about how to revitalize the historic property.

“The tragic loss of our theater, an integral part of our community history, is devastating,” State Sen. Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) said. “Not only is this an enormous loss for Stratford, but also for our entire state. The Shakespeare Theatre was a cultural and artistic icon. Its history is something we must never forget. As a Stratford resident and longtime advocate for preserving the landmark, today is particularly heartbreaking. The paramount focus right now must be on public safety and I want to thank all the first responders, fire, police and EMS who are working to ensure the public remains safe.”