Recent

News

June 4, 2026 - Broadway World publishes an article about several upcoming Midwest performances of Cinzi Lavin’s play, Half an Hour in Heaven.

Read the full article in Broadway World.

June 2, 2026 - The Irish American News publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s play, Half an Hour in Heaven, which will be featured for the second consecutive year at Chicago’s upcoming Gaelic Park Irish Festival, following a successful debut in Ireland in March of 2025. The play is also being featured at the Peoria Irish Festival in August.

Read the full article in The Irish American News.

May 20, 2026 - 𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐑𝐄 NOW 𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 - To secure seats for Five Points Arts Center’s special engagement of Cinzi Lavin’s acclaimed historical drama, A Goodnight Kiss, on June 13 and 14, please purchase admission directly through the Official Eventbrite Ticket Registry. Tickets are expected to sell rapidly; finalize reservations early to ensure entry.

Begin the summer’s celebrations of America’s Semiquincentennial Anniversary with this unforgettable, historically based American drama. A Goodnight Kiss chronicles the poignant, true story of a young teacher-in-training and a humble Connecticut soldier corresponding during the Civil War. Crafted from actual letters preserved at the Connecticut Museum of History and Culture and boasting a script which has been permanently archived in the U.S. Library of Congress, this production offers a masterfully woven narrative proving that human connection transcends all adversity.

Under the direction of Kathy Kelly, a highly accomplished TV/film actress, the drama features a stellar principal cast led by David Macharelli and Olivia Wadsworth—two of the region's most talented actors.

Seating remains strictly limited. Please secure your attendance in advance, as tickets are available exclusively online and will not be offered at the venue door.

May 7, 2026 - Broadway World publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s play, A Goodnight Kiss, enjoying a special engagement in June at the world-class venue, Five Points Arts Center.

Read the full article in Broadway World.

May 2, 2026 - Cinzi Lavin’s short story, “Axis of Interpretation,” is now available in the 𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝐶𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑛 𝑅𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤, a journal of the literary and visual arts with a distinguished legacy.

“I’m delighted to be included in such esteemed company,” says Lavin, adding, “My gratitude to the Croton Council on the Arts for their continued stewardship of the Hudson Valley’s literary tradition.”

The Spring 2026 edition of the 𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝐶𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑛 𝑅𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤 is available at local Hudson Valley, New York shops such as By-the-Dam Books and Hudson Valley Books for Humanity. Available online via Amazon:

April 28, 2026 - Cinzi Lavin announces The Proscenium Grant. Named for the iconic architecture that defines a stage, this initiative is designed to partially or fully underwrite her royalty fees for select theatres.

“I’m committed to supporting the work of small theatrical organizations, which is why I’m so pleased to introduce this grant. The grant ensures that these entities, which already do so much with so little, can continue to engage and delight their communities without the burden of licensing costs.”

Community theatres and those that serve local or regional audiences are invited to inquire for further details. Kindly contact Ms. Constance Covington-Whitney at c.covington-whitney@cinzilavin.com

April 22, 2026 - Cinzi Lavin is appointed to the Advisory Board of Five Points Arts Center, a premier institution in Litchfield County, Connecticut.

A recognized cultural visionary and arts advocate, Lavin joins the board at a pivotal time in the center’s expansion.

“It is a tremendous privilege to serve as an advisor to Five Points Arts Center,” said Lavin. “Art is the heartbeat of a thriving culture, and Five Points has established itself as a world-class institution for creativity and innovation. I am eager to champion the center’s vision and support the next chapter of their remarkable growth.”

April 1, 2026 - Cinzi Lavin’s acclaimed drama, A Goodnight Kiss, makes history as the first theatrical production ever staged at the Connecticut State Capitol. Performed by invitation in the presence of legislators and cultural leaders, VIP guests and capitol tourists, this historic milestone represents a rare intersection of state heritage and the arts.

Based on a collection of private Civil War-era love letters, the play’s performance under the gold dome of Hartford consolidates Lavin’s position as a leader in contemporary historical dramatization. The performance also honors the work's recent induction into the archives of the Library of Congress’ Permanent Collection.

“Public history is something that brings people together in a spirit of community,” says Lavin. “A Goodnight Kiss tells the story of people who lived during a polarizing period in America’s history. Being able to witness their struggles and triumphs helps us to understand our own times and create a shared view of the future.”

Plans are underway for another limited run of the play as a special event in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary.

March 25, 2026 - The Lakeville Journal publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s play, A Goodnight Kiss, making history as the first drama ever staged in the Connecticut State Capitol building.

Read the full article in The Lakeville Journal.

March 17, 2026 - Cinzi Lavin has the distinction of having a work housed in the Permanent Collection of the Library of Congress. The script for A Goodnight Kiss, which is already held by the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History, is requested by the Manuscript Division for their archives in Washington, D.C.

“To have this work preserved alongside the papers of so many esteemed predecessors is a meaningful honor. I am grateful to the Acquisitions & Outreach Office for their interest in this play and for the opportunity to contribute to our national Performing Arts collections,” says Lavin.

February 11, 2026 - Broadway World publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s play, A Goodnight Kiss, being performed by invitation at the Connecticut State Capitol building.

Read the full article in Broadway World.

February 10, 2026 - Cinzi Lavin is featured in The Scoop Magazine. She discusses her commitment to philanthropy and volunteering, sharing the origins of her involvement through her grandmother, a humanitarian, philanthropist, and community leader.

Read the full article in The Scoop Magazine.

January 13, 2026 - A Goodnight Kiss wins third place for Best New Play of 2025 in Broadway World's Connecticut Awards. The show is also scheduled for a performance by invitation at the Connecticut State Capitol in April.

November 24, 2025 - Cinzi Lavin is appointed by Senator Stephen Harding to the Connecticut Arts Council, which operates within the Connecticut Office of the Arts, a division of the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development. As an award-winning, internationally acclaimed playwright and musical dramatist, Lavin brings distinguished artistic leadership, longstanding arts advocacy, and creative vision to the Council’s mission of advancing the arts across Connecticut.

Lavin says she hopes to use her position to great impact, adding, “In this very influential role, I hope to be a good servant of the arts and of my fellow citizens.”

Further information about her appointment can be viewed via the Connecticut Office of the Arts.

November 3, 2025 - Bold Journey features Cinzi Lavin in an article about generosity and overcoming career obstacles. She also talks about her work as an artistic/theatric consultant.

Read the full article in Bold Journey.

September 17, 2025 - Cinzi Lavin is appointed as an Adviser to the board of directors of Crescendo. A world-class award-winning choir based in northwest Connecticut, Crescendo is currently enjoying its 22nd season performing in the Berkshires, led by renowned choral conductor and founding artistic director Christine Gevert.

“I’m tremendously honored to have been asked,” says Lavin. “Christine Gevert is simply fantastic and I’m excited to do my utmost to further the aims of the organization.”

Crescendo joins a list of prestigious entities and projects that are enhanced by Lavin’s expertise and creative guidance in her role as consultant. Those who wish to engage her services are invited to email her directly at cinzi@cinzilavin.com

Further information is available on the website for Crescendo.

August 25, 2025 - Half an Hour in Heaven makes a successful American debut at Chicago’s Gaelic Park Irish Festival. The play was seen on August 23rd and 24th on the festival’s Performing Arts Stage, with audiences enjoying Cinzi Lavin’s new drama that premiered in Ireland five months prior.

The nationally recognized Gaelic Park Players, directed by Betty Kort, boasted an outstanding cast: Kevin Denny, Phyllis Jane Weinberg, and Cathi Diamond, with Dave Nolan taking the stage in the role of Paddy Joe Gallagher.

Lauded as “beautifully written and funny,” Half an Hour in Heaven charmed audiences at Illinois’ largest Irish cultural festival.

“I’m so glad the show has made the transcontinental journey,” says Lavin of the play, which deals with Irish immigrants. “It’s an honor to have a work that’s meaningful to both the Irish and Irish-Americans.”

August 16, 2025 - Broadway World publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s play, Half an Hour in Heaven.

Read the full article in Broadway World.

August 6, 2025 - The Irish American News publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s play, Half an Hour in Heaven, which will be featured at Chicago’s upcoming Gaelic Park Irish Festival, following a successful debut in Ireland in March.

Read the full article in The Irish American News.

June 10, 2025 - A Goodnight Kiss debuts with sold-out performances and standing ovations at Goshen Players Playhouse in Goshen, Connecticut. Based on actual love-letters found in the attic of an old home, the play recounts the correspondence between a young woman studying to be a schoolteacher and a young man who goes off to fight in the Civil War, whose relationship blossomed despite all obstacles. Director Kathy Kelly, who has appeared in numerous film, stage, and TV productions as well as co-starring in an Emmy Award-winning TV series, is also credited with producing the show.

“It was her idea,” says Lavin. “She had heard about the letters and knew they would form the basis of a successful stage play. I’m so fortunate she had the vision to see that.”

Meanwhile, reviewer Sean Fallon extoled it as “the most romantic love story I have ever seen acted out on stage,” calling it “a phenomenal production.”

June 5, 2025 - The Lakeville Journal publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s upcoming play, A Goodnight Kiss.

Read the full article in The Lakeville Journal.

June 2, 2025 - Main Street Magazine publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s upcoming play, A Goodnight Kiss.

Read the full article in Main Street Magazine.

May 28, 2025 - Berkshire Style Magazine publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s upcoming play, A Goodnight Kiss.

Read the full article in Berkshire Style Magazine.

May 11, 2025 - Cinzi Lavin is recognized by the Massachusetts History Alliance with an MHA Star Award. The award honors those who have made outstanding contributions to the research and interpretation of history.

Lavin is the creator of three full-length original musical dramas based in Massachusetts and is the composer of one of the state's few official town songs, “Underneath a Hullonian Sky.”

She has a certificate in Applied Public History from the University of London.

The award ceremony will be held on the campus of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

”So many stories are worthy of telling, “ says Lavin. “I'm doing my best to keep up.”

Further details about the award may be viewed in the Massachusetts History Alliance 2025 Awards Announcement.

May 8, 2025 - Litchfield Magazine publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s upcoming play, A Goodnight Kiss.

Read the full article in Litchfield Magazine.

May 4, 2025 - Canvas Rebel publishes an inspiring article about Cinzi Lavin in which she discusses overcoming challenges in her career path.

Read the full article in Canvas Rebel.

April 30, 2025 - Broadway World publishes an article about Cinzi Lavin’s upcoming play, A Goodnight Kiss.

Read the full article in Broadway World.

April 9, 2025 - 𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄!

To purchase seats for the northwest Connecticut premiere of Cinzi Lavin’s new play, 𝑨 𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝑲𝒊𝒔𝒔, on June 6, 7, and 8, please click this link: https://goshenplayer.booktix.com/dept/main/e/Kiss

Tickets are expected to sell quickly--make sure to reserve your seat early.

Start your summer by attending the theatrical event of the season!

A Goodnight Kiss tells the true story of a young teacher-in-training and a humble soldier from a small New England town who correspond during the Civil War. Based on actual letters found in the attic of a family home, this new production offers historical insights, entertainment, and proof that human connection transcends all adversity.

With an absolutely stellar cast headed by David Macharelli and Olivia Wadsworth, two of the most stunningly talented actors in the region, led by Kathy Kelly, a highly accomplished director and former co-star in an Emmy Award-winning TV series, this production promises to be unforgettable.

Seating is limited—reserve now!

March 8, 2025 - Half an Hour in Heaven debuts with sold-out performances at Charlestown Arts Centre in County Mayo, Ireland. Set in Brooklyn in 1961, the play revolves around Irish immigrants who have established themselves in New York while retaining many of the ways of their beloved homeland. Director Gerard Groarke, whose credits include work with several Dublin theatrical companies, and the Charlestown Drama Group bring the characters from page to stage, earning standing ovations.

“We had such fun with it,” says Groarke. Meanwhile, actress Louise Doyle says, “It was fantastic—thoroughly enjoyed it.”

The play was dedicated to the memory of Cinzi Lavin’s grandfather, James Lavin, who was born just a few miles from the theatre.

February 21, 2025 - Cinzi Lavin introduces FRONT ROW, providing followers with an upgraded experience. Published in February, June, and October, it’s a source of behind-the-scenes stories, valuable information, and unique content, as well as special perks. Visit the “Contact” page to subscribe.

January 13, 2025 - VoyageHouston features Cinzi Lavin as part of their conversations with noteworthy individuals in their “Houston’s Most Inspiring Stories” series. As a former Houston resident, Lavin has continued to work with the city in support of its artists.

Read the full article in VoyageHouston.

November 21, 2024 - Cinzi Lavin introduces her first nonfiction book, Making Bread Out of Straw: How to Succeed with Almost Nothing by Helping Others, Thinking Creatively, and Ignoring Obstacles. Now available through Amazon in hardcover, paperback, and e-book formats.

Lavin explains how anyone can achieve success by helping to create a generosity-based society, by utilizing their creativity, and by choosing their own path. She outlines indispensable philosophies, clever tips, and practical strategies which can be powerfully leveraged to further one’s goals.

Embracing the unconventional, wasting nothing, and making life good for everyone are all part of the art of Making Bread Out of Straw.

November 4, 2024 - Writing in The Rauch Review, author Joseph Rauch references The Taciturn Sky and Nemesis of the Great by Cinzi Lavin in his article about creating authentic biracial fiction characters, highlighting Rosemary Rye, a biracial character who appears in both books.

Read the full article in The Rauch Review.

September 23, 2024 - A new drama by Cinzi Lavin, Half an Hour in Heaven, debuts in Ireland this winter. The Charlestown Arts Centre in County Mayo will be staging the production in March 2025. Set in Brooklyn in 1961, the play revolves around four Irish immigrants who have established themselves in New York while retaining many of the ways of their beloved homeland.

June 1, 2024 - Cinzi Lavin unveils a sample of her upcoming historical drama, A Goodnight Kiss, at the 75th Anniversary Gala Celebration of Goshen Players in Goshen, Connecticut. Commissioned by acclaimed producer/director Kathy Kelly, the new work is based on actual love letters between a young couple during the Civil War. The full-length production of A Goodnight Kiss is scheduled for June 2025.

December 11, 2023 - At a full convocation of the Council of the Guild, Cinzi Lavin is admitted as a Fellow of the Guild of Musicians and Singers (London).

The fellowship has among its patrons Dame Patricia Routledge, renowned soprano and actress, best known as Hyacinth Bucket from the BBC television comedy “Keeping Up Appearances.”

July 11, 2023 - With today’s release of A Strand of Truth,Cinzi Lavin welcomes her third novel.

This poignant suspense-thriller follows a federal agent in an unlikely undercover guise who becomes embroiled in a cross-country adventure, struggling to thwart a remorseless serial killer on the loose, whose family and fortune stand between him and justice.

The story’s shocking conclusion, which takes place in the Texas Hill Country during an annual Oktoberfest celebration, draws on Lavin’s past as a resident of the area.

A Strand of Truth is available in both paperback and eBook formats, and may be purchased via Amazon and other fine booksellers:

Click the following to view A Strand of Truth on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

February 16, 2023 - Cinzi Lavin is invited to deliver a presentation to the Continental Commandery of the Naval Order of the United States as part of their annual lecture series. She discusses the creation and production of her musical drama, Toilers of the Sea: The Life of Joshua James.

Known as "the Father of the U.S. Coast Guard," James is the most highly decorated civilian lifesaving crew commander in United States history, having personally saved over 600 individuals and taken part in scores of life-threatening rescues at sea.

Lecture highlights include the show's creation and its 2010 premiere, including behind-the-scenes stories about the cast and the rehearsal process.

The lecture may be viewed on YouTube.

Selected Earlier Press & Media Highlights

from

Major Metropolitan & National Media

  • [CHICAGO] Irish American News (2025): Feature coverage detailing the United States premiere of Cinzi Lavin’s drama Half an Hour in Heaven at Chicago’s Gaelic Park Irish Festival, following its world premiere in County Mayo, Ireland. “Debuting successfully at Charlestown Arts Centre to packed houses and standing ovations, the play, set in 1961, revolves around four Irish immigrants who have established themselves in America while retaining many of the ways of their beloved homeland.” “The nationally recognized Gaelic Park Players will be bringing the characters from page to stage.” [The Irish American News Archive.]

  • [VIRGINIA] Richmond Times-Dispatch (2024): Media feature highlighting playwright Cinzi Lavin’s executive governance and leadership as a member of the Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut, documenting her advocacy for affordable housing and national community development initiatives. “Industry insider Cinzi Lavin, member of the Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut.” Read the full article in The Richmond Times-Dispatch.

  • [CONNECTICUT] The Connecticut Post (Hearst Media) (2022): Major feature honoring Cinzi Lavin's national recognition as a recipient of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Women in the Arts Recognition Award for her contributions to historical theatre and her influence on American culture. In order to qualify for nomination to the NSDAR’s American Heritage Committee for this honor, a woman must have contributed to her artistic field in an outstanding manner.” “Lavin is the award-winning composer of three full-length musical dramas, among other works, and performed by invitation at the White House in 2010. In 2019, she was voted into the National League of American Pen Women for distinction in Letters and Music, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (London).” Read the full article in The Connecticut Post.

  • [CONNECTICUT] The Connecticut Post (Hearst Media) (2022): A comprehensive feature story with a career profile highlighting her extensive contributions to music, literature, and theatre. The feature celebrates her prestigious receipt of the Yellow Rose of Texas Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a woman by the Texas government, recognizing her as a philanthropist and cultural visionary. Lavin's artistic journey across the United States and her recent dramatic achievements, including the production of her play Whitewash and Mortar at Bantam Cinema & Arts Center, are spotlighted. “[Lavin] earns Texas’s highest award.” “It is the highest award the Texas government can bestow on a woman.” “Cinzi Lavin has left her mark as a multidisciplined artist from New York City to the Texas Hill Country to the Bay State’s South Shore to Litchfield County.” “Lavin ‘was born on Fifth Avenue and went to Scarsdale High School.’” “An accomplished pianist, she is also fluent in eight other instruments.” “‘I’m interested in how the social classes in the United States stratify themselves, so delving into that and exploring the texture of that society was something that I found very interesting as a writer,’ she said.” “Lavin loves to collect art.” Read the full article in The Connecticut Post.

  • [BOSTON] Boston WBUR (NPR) (2018): Extensive news coverage documenting Cinzi Lavin's leadership, testimony, and arts advocacy as she champions historic state legislation at the Massachusetts State House to establish a Musician Laureate for the Commonwealth. “Her quest to present legislation for a Massachusetts musician laureate is finally coming to fruition. On Wednesday, Jan. 10, Lavin — a musician herself — will testify on Beacon Hill for Bill S.2225.” Read the full article in Boston WBUR.

  • [SPRINGFIELD] The Republican (MassLive) (Massachusetts) (2018): Extended press feature quoting dramatist Cinzi Lavin regarding her musical theatrical work and her contributions to arts advocacy and cultural leadership at the state level. “‘There are ties between music and government.’” “‘If you think of any famous political campaign, there’s probably a song attached.’” [The Republican Archive.]

  • [BOSTON] The Boston Globe (2011): Critic review of Cinzi Lavin's musical drama Where the Fun Begins staged at historic Fort Revere Amphitheatre. "[Lavin] brought her talents to Hull in 2007 and won a state legislative citation for outstanding contribution to Massachusetts arts and culture." “Where the Fun Begins is a story of hard times, faith and redemption with a cast of 40.” [The Boston Globe Archive.]

  • [BOSTON] The Patriot Ledger (Quincy, Massachusetts) (2011): Feature announcing the premiere of a new work by “award-winning composer Cinzi Lavin.” Explains “Lavin’s first musical, On This River, won a Massachusetts Cultural Council ‘Gold Star’ Award for outstanding contribution to Massachusetts arts and culture” and discusses her third musical, Where The Fun Begins, noting the production "completes Lavin's 'Nantasket Trilogy' of musicals about Hull's famous attractions." Read the full article in The Patriot Ledger.

PHOTO CREDIT: Anna Zuckerman-Vdovenko @AZV PHOTO/MEDIA