The Klein

About The Klein

The Klein Memorial Auditorium is a 1,447-seat performing arts center that serves as a hub for Bridgeport and surrounding communities. Built in 1940, it is one of only 7 Broadway-sized stages remaining in Connecticut. The venue was built with funds willed to the city by Bridgeport native Jacob Klein (1862-1932), a lawyer and active supporter of Bridgeport community organizations. The auditorium, designed by local architect Leonard Asheim, was designed in the Art Deco style and features bronze doors, a marble lobby, inlaid wood and geometric motifs. As recently as 2010, The Klein operated as a rental house and was only in use 65 days per year. That all changed in 2013 when the after school program began, and The Klein held its first fundraising event. ASK is totally tuition-free, and to fund it The Klein relies on support from foundations, government and corporations as well as donations from individuals. Other operating costs are funded through rentals and self-presentations, which now total over 150 per year. The Klein houses 5 resident companies: Greater Bridgeport Symphony, New England Ballet Company, All Stars Project of Bridgeport, Greater Bridgeport Youth Orchestras, and Fairfield County Children’s Choir. It also is home to numerous dance companies and concert promoters (such as Fairfield Theatre Company), civic ceremonies, including iiConn naturalization ceremony, and graduations. In the past 12 months, The Klein has also brought such diverse talents as Vienna Boys Choir, the original concert series Footsteps of Peace, the Parris Island Marine Corps Band, Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Ensemble, and its own 75th anniversary concert hosted by Paul Shaffer. In 2016 The Klein will present two-time Emmy Award recipient Loretta Swit of M*A*S*H in a 1-woman play entitled, “Eleanor Roosevelt: Her Secret Journey”, as well as the satiric comedy troupe Capitol Steps, and many more.

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