Cocktails and Curtain Calls is back.

When Matt Austin and Beth Young started Cocktails & Curtain Calls on Spectrum TV’s local cable access channel, their mission was to spread awareness of the incredible wealth of excellent theatrical venues in the area.

After an 11-month hiatus, the program has returned to let the theater-going public know that local and regional theaters are using their creativity to provide entertainment in this time of confinement and there is room for all to participate and contribute. Theater presidents, and artistic directors are appearing, via Zoom, on the show to tout endeavors and plans to develop performances and activities aimed at keeping audiences active and involved.

New episodes have been posted on Facebook and YouTube.

For those who have ever considered, at any time in their life, performing or creating content, this is the time.

Young says many of the community theaters in the area are looking to feature work that is original and impressive.

“Look no further than the Ghostlight Series at The Ridgefield Theater Barn, a perfect example of opportunity delivered to your inbox,” she said. “Pamme Jones, president of the Barn, has presented this unique offering for anyone who would like to put their creative talents under the spotlight of a single bulb. Play the violin, recite a haunting poem, or sing a macabre song; this is your chance.”

Christine Daley, president of the board of TheatreWorks New Milford, detailed opportunities for those interested in work behind the scenes, which will keep theater alive while the stage itself is dark.

“So much happens in the world of live production that does not take place on a stage,” Young pointed out. “The craft of stage managing, lighting and sound design are essential functions as are the roles for concession and ticket takers. The show cannot go on without them!”

Cocktails and Curtain Calls has also heard enlightening, entertaining and profound words by Daniel C. Levine, artistic director of ACT, and Bryan Perry, musical director of Broadway’s Jagged Little Pill, who have described the heartbreak as well as the flexibility in shuttering large scale productions and pivoting to create new ways to communicate to the public.

“Their expressions in hope are uplifting and inspiring,” Young said.

Also sharing updates, with joyful humor and optimism, is Brookfield Theater for the Arts President Lou Okell. She offers details of the theater’s upcoming season, and revels in a confidant vision of a bright future which is much appreciated.

Viewers can also tune in and hear from Jason Peck and Jonathan Winn of Thrown Stone in Ridgefield, describing their upcoming season as well as plans for a presentation of original work. Playwrights are encouraged to visit that theater’s website for information on how to submit original work for a special and exciting event they have planned.

Austin and Young have plans to talk with Brian DeToma of The Town Players of Newtown and Robin Frome of The Sherman Players, as well as many others.

Hope, healing, humor, and a warm sense of community are just some of the myriad of benefits theater offers a world in flux.

“In the arts we come together with purpose in creating and developing work that will both be a balm to an anxious public and assurance that theater will be there in the time to come,” promise the show’s co-hosts.