After graduating NYU with a BA in Television Production and Music, Allison Stockel went on to produce television specials and shows for the likes of CNN, ABC, The Food Network, MTV Networks, Lifetime Television, and more. Upon moving to Ridgefield, Connecticut in December of 2000, she quickly became involved with The Ridgefield Playhouse, first as a board member and then as the Executive Director in 2004. As Executive Director Allison oversees the day to day running of the nonprofit, and has led the artistic vision of the venue for the past 20 years – with programming that includes a variety of renowned recording artists from all music genres (rock, pop, singer/songwriter, jazz, world beat, folk, country, and more). Allison’s entertainment background has served as the springboard to expand the programming at the Ridgefield Playhouse through arts in education programming, dance, speakers, comedy, film society events, and an HD simulcast series broadcasting the Met Opera from New York, the National Theater from London, a newly formed Diversity Films Series and other special events.
In addition to the Playhouse, Allison is on the Advisory Board of the Women’s Center in Danbury, Ct, is an incorporator at The Lounsbury House in Ridgefield, is on the Board of Directors for The Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, and has delivered food and fundraises for Hillside Food Outreach, as well as SPHERE, Ability Beyond Disability, Danbury Music Center, The Ridgefield Chorale, Sandy Hook Promise, and has been a host parent for 3 students from Ridgefield A Better Chance.
Allison Stockel’s philanthropic activities include donating her yearly salary back to the non-profit Ridgefield Playhouse, which presents more than 200 shows a year, generating foot traffic of more than 100,000 people into the local community and through the doors of the venue
