Get your week in Wilton started off on a GOOD foot with GMW‘s “Monday Morning Brew.” Each Monday, “Morning Brew” will highlighting shorter announcements, updates, events to check out and GOOD news items, and helps you get a quick start to Wilton’s news week. Have a news tip, item or something you know people are chatting about or may want to do? Fill out this form to let GMW know!
CAN’T MISS HOLIDAY TRADITION: The Conservatory of Dance Brings “The Nutcracker” to Center Stage
Experience the sparkle, charm and timeless magic of the season as Wilton’s Conservatory of Dance presents its annual production of The Nutcracker. With a cast of more than 140 dancers, ranging from 5-18 years of age, this year’s performance promises to be a vibrant celebration of youth artistry, dedication and holiday wonder. Audiences can expect a feast for the senses from the festive Christmas Eve party to swirling Snowflakes and the enchanting Land of the Sweets that highlights both the talent and heart of the Conservatory’s community of dancers.
The Conservatory of Dance is also pleased to have a few parents stepping into the spotlight this year for charming cameo roles. Their involvement and enthusiasm underscores the studio’s spirit of family and community.
For anyone seeking a heartwarming holiday outing, the Conservatory of Dance’s Nutcracker is a must-see event. It’s not just a performance — it’s a celebration of creativity, community and the joy that dance and the holiday spirit brings to children and families alike.
Performances are at Wilton High School’s Clune Center For The Arts on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.
COMMUNITY HANUKKAH CELEBRATION: Wilton Community Menorah Lighting on the Town Green
The entire Wilton community is invited to join the Schneerson Center for Jewish Life, CT and Town of Wilton officials as the giant outdoor Menorah on the Wilton Town Green shines bright once again! On Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4:30 p.m., celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights with live music, Hanukkah cookies, gelt, dreidels, and fun for the whole family. For the past 19 years, this cherished tradition has brought joy and warmth to the Wilton community. The Menorah lighting will be led by Rabbi Levi Stone of the Schneerson Center for Jewish Life, CT.
COME OUT AND CHEER: WHS Football in Semifinals Today at Home
Wilton High School Warrior football has reached the Class MM state semifinals and as the number-two seed hosts number-three seed Frank Scott Bunnell High School from Stratford on Monday, Dec. 8.
Kickoff is at 4:30 p.m. and tickets for today’s game must be purchased online. . The winner will advance to the Championship game this coming weekend, so come out to Fujitani Field and cheer on the Warriors!
DID YOU HEAR? Happy Hands Pottery Studio has a new owner!
Congratulations to Sara Touijer, who is the new owner of Happy Hands Pottery Studio! Touijer, a Wilton resident and accomplished interior designer who also came from the world of television as a cohost/interior designer on “Rachael Ray’s Rebuild,” is stepping into the role of owner at Happy Hands.
Touijer bought the business — both the Fairfield and Wilton locations — from previous owner Alla Ionescu. And she promises that what Wilton has come to love about Happy Hands will not change.
“Every time someone leaves the studio smiling, carrying home something they made with pride, that’s what it’s all about. That’s what I want to keep alive at Happy Hands,” Touijer said.
STAR TURN: Wilton 7th Grader Eleanor Murphy Dances as ‘Marie’ in NYC Ballet “Nutcracker”
The last time GMW checked in with Wilton 12-year-old Eleanor Murphy, she was dancing as a bunny in the New York City Ballet production of “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker.” Now, three years later, Eleanor has taken on a bigger part — the coveted role of “Marie” whose nutcracker doll comes to life.
A student at the prestigious School of American Ballet, Ella has risen to the top and is now dancing her dream come true role.
Eleanor first saw the NYCB production of The Nutcracker with her mom at just 2-and-a-half years old — what she now says was the moment she knew she wanted to be on that stage. Now, less than a decade later, doing just that and inspiring another generation of aspiring dancers.
“It’s humbling to think of all the SAB students who share this journey,” Eleanor said.” I am so inspired by my teachers and the company dancers on a daily basis.”
The New York City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker runs until Jan. 3, 2026, at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center.