The Hartford Invests $20,000 to Support Historic Ritz Theater’s Community Arts Mission
- Dec 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 16, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT:
Steven Waschka (marketing director)
O | (407) 321-8111
C | (689) 777-2108 (txt or voice)
Sanford, FL – December 11, 2025 The Historic Ritz Theater at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center announced today that The Hartford has joined as a sponsor of the theater with a $20,000 investment in support of its arts, education, and community programming.
The sponsorship from The Hartford, a nationally respected leader in property and casualty insurance, group benefits, and mutual funds, will help strengthen the Ritz Theater’s ability to present diverse performances, expand youth and education initiatives, and enhance the overall guest experience for audiences across Central Florida.
“We are incredibly grateful to The Hartford for believing in the work we’re doing here at the Historic Ritz Theater,” said Andrea Howard, Executive Director of the Historic Ritz Theater. “This generous $20,000 investment isn’t just a financial gift, it’s a vote of confidence in our mission, our community, and the future of this historic venue. We deeply appreciate The Hartford’s partnership and their commitment to keeping the arts accessible and alive.”
Known for its strong values, long history, and commitment to communities across the country, The Hartford is widely recognized as a company that does business with integrity and purpose. Their support of the Ritz Theater reflects a broader dedication to investing in organizations that create opportunity, connection, and positive impact.
“It means a great deal to us to be aligned with a company like The Hartford,” Howard added. “They are not only a leader in their industry; they are a company that consistently shows up for communities. Their support helps us reach more families, support more youth, and keep this beautiful historic theater thriving for generations to come.”
Located in the heart of Downtown Sanford, the Historic Ritz Theater is a volunteer-driven community stage that produces and presents live entertainment, concerts, family programming, and film screenings while partnering with schools, nonprofits, and local organizations. The theater’s mission is to engage and inspire diverse audiences while cultivating performance arts for youth and regional talent, serving as a vibrant cultural hub for the wider Central Florida region.
The Hartford’s sponsorship will directly support:
Community and Youth Programming – Expanding access to live theater and arts education for local students and families.
Diverse Performances and Events – Helping the Ritz present a wide range of productions that reflect and serve a broad audience.
Historic Theater Sustainability – Supporting operations and guest experience enhancements that keep the venue welcoming, comfortable, and accessible.
Andrea Howard Executive Director, Historic Ritz Theater
Phone: 407-321-8111
Website: RitzTheaterSanford.com
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About The Hartford
The Hartford is a leading provider of property and casualty insurance, group benefits, and mutual funds. With more than two centuries of history, The Hartford is known for its customer-focused service, responsible business practices, and strong commitment to communities. The company partners with organizations across the country to support education, the arts, economic opportunity, and resilience.
About The Ritz Theater at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
Since 1923, The Ritz Theater, has served as a cultural hub for Historic Downtown Sanford. As a nonprofit organization, the theater is driven by its mission: "to produce and present entertainment that engages and inspires diverse audiences while cultivating performance art for youth and regional talent."
Today, The Ritz Theater blends its irreplaceable historic 1920s charm with modern, state-of-the-art experiences, embodying its promise of "Big City Entertainment, Right at Home." Patrons enjoy a wide array of programming—from live Broadway-style theatrical performances to concerts, classic films, and family-friendly events. The theater provides an accessible and convenient destination for top-tier entertainment, without the high prices of a downtown venue.
The Ritz is also a leader in fostering local talent and engaging new generations. With a renewed focus on attracting young adults and families, the theater is expanding its offerings to include dynamic social experiences ensuring it remains Sanford's vibrant entertainment destination for years to come.
For more information on the upcoming season, to purchase tickets, or to learn about supporting the theater, please visit https://ritztheatersanford.com
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