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Thursday, March 29, 2012
MEET THE ARTISTS, SEE THEIR WORKS @ HUNTERDON ART MUSEUM THIS SUNDAY
NEW MOON READING THIS MONDAY NIGHT @ LUNA STAGE
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ANNUAL TIBET COLLECTION LECTURE @ THE NEWARK MUSEUM
The Newark Museum is a real treasure. Close by and parking in a protected lot! Learn more about Asia without the long plane trip!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
STNJ DISCOUNT PACKAGES AVAILABLE FOR 50th ANNIVERSARY SEASON
CLICK HERE FOR 50th ANNIVERSARY SEASON INFORMATION (link on graphic will not work)
REVIEW: TOMMY TUNE CHARMS AUDIENCE IN HACKETTSTOWN SHOW
By Sheila Abrams
If he weren’t such a likable fellow, one might confuse Broadway legend Tommy Tune with Dorian Gray. Like Oscar Wilde’s character who doesn’t age, Tune, at 73, looks, except for some gray hair, pretty much the way he did 40 years ago. (Dorian Gray, not such a likeable fellow, had a satanic portrait aging in the attic.) At 6-foot-5, Tune is limber and sure-footed and can still tap dance like a dream.
He appeared last Saturday in two sold-out performances at the Sitnik Theatre on the campus of Centenary College in Hackettstown, presenting Steps in Time; a Broadway Biography in Song and Dance. The event launched a week of dance events culminating this coming weekend with performances by three top New Jersey-based dance companies.
The mood of the show was so relaxed, so conversational, that one wondered how scripted it was. In any case, it certainly made it very pleasant. Done in 90 minutes without intermission, it seemed to go by in a flash.
Tune, a winner of 9 Tony awards, for performing, choreographing and directing in some of Broadway’s most memorable musicals, meandered down memory lane in a most comfortable way. Backed up by the Manhattan Rhythm Kings and a small band, he studded his remembrances with songs and dances from Broadway and movies, with composers ranging from George Gershwin to Kurt Weill.
The Manhattan Rhythm Kings are a gifted trio who could doubtless carry a show by themselves. Brian Nalepk (who also plays bass in the band), Hal Shane and Scott Leiendecker don’t look like typical chorus boys, but they sing and dance wonderfully, as demonstrated by the fact that they keep up with Tune.
The show was dedicated to the “late, great Charles ‘Honi’ Coles,” with whom Tune starred in the hit musical, My One and Only, which also starred Twiggy. Coles, a tapper known for his high-speed stepping, was a strong influence on Tune. If one listens to Tune’s dancing as well as looking at it (which one should always do with tapping), one can hear that the way his feet hit to floor is almost melodic.
A few years ago, when a famous Russian ballet dancer appeared in a classical role at a fairly advanced age (old enough for Medicare but still younger than Tune is now), a particularly acerbic critic said that, rather than an artistic event, it was a medical one.
Not the case with Tommy Tune. He is the consummate entertainer and, for dance connoisseurs, a consummate dancer. What a wonderful show!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
SHAKE UP YOUR KID’S SUMMER @ THE SHAKESPEARE THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY
The Junior and Senior Shakespeare Corps
The Junior and Senior Corps combine professional acting instruction, classic literature, and a commitment to developing self-confidence, creativity and teamwork, all in the setting of an acclaimed regional theatre. Members of the Corps also become part of a vibrant artistic community that shares an unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Junior Corps is a two-week summer acting intensive for all types of students ages 11-14, from beginning performers to budding stars. The focus of the Junior Corps program is ensemble—and each session culminates in a final Saturday presentation that involves the entire group in retelling a piece of classic literature through performance.
The Senior Corps is a three-week summer acting intensive designed for students ages 14-17 with an enhanced focus on Shakespeare for students who are serious about growing as performers. Admission is by audition/interview only.
Each student will come away with a rehearsed and critiqued Shakespeare monologue of his or her choice—a great asset when auditioning for colleges or other theatre programs. Each session culminates in a Saturday afternoon performance of Shakespearean text—either a collection of Shakespeare scenes or a condensation of a single Shakespeare play which allows the students to demonstrate what they have learned.
College-age theatre artists and graduate students should check out The Shakespeare Theatre's SUMMER PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM for actors, designers, directors, administrators and technicians—May 17-August 13.
Be sure to visit the website to see their thrilling 50th Anniversary Season!
“APRIL’S FOOLS”: NUTTY BY NATURE @ NJSDA APRIL 7
NUTTY BY NATURE—The Improv Comedy Troupe
APRIL'S FOOLS
WHEN: SATURDAY, APRIL 7, at 8:00 PM
WHERE: NJ SCHOOL OF DRAMATIC ARTS THEATER, 593 BLOOMFIELD AVE, BLOOMFIELD
TICKETS: $10Tickets may be reserved by calling 973.566.9700, Ext 4.
Nutty By Nature, now in its 15th year as New Jersey’s premier improv troupe, announced today that they will be performing their new improv comedy show, April's Fools.
The Herald News has called them "Bawdy, brilliant and proof that ingenuity can strike at a moment’s notice."
Nutty By Nature has been making audiences laugh throughout the metropolitan NY/NJ area for the past 15 years. In addition to having performed at The NJ Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), The South Street Seaport,12 Miles West, Theater Under the Stars,The Black River Playhouse, Luna Stage, Barnes & Noble and Borders bookstores; they were featured on the E! Television/Style Network’s reality TV series, "Try My Life".
Executive director Bob Sapoff has been profiled on ABC News, CNN, NY 1 News and in the Star Ledger, Herald News, and Daily Record. A professional actor for over 20 years, his theatre credits include the role of Harpo in the Off-Broadway revival of The Cocoanuts, which was named one of the 10 best Off-Broadway productions of that year. Bob has appeared on Nickelodeon and in countless television commercials (including a Clio Award winner) and print work nationwide. He is also the co-director of the NJ School of Dramatic Arts.
Other members of the troupe include Co-Director Paul Acocella, Elaine Brodie, Jody Eiden, Laura Hartin, Robin Lewis, Shelly Miller, Cindy Summers, Wendy Tiburcio, Jackie Valeo and Ted Wrigley.
The show is based entirely on audience suggestions! “After all”, says troupe director Paul Accello, “the only thing better than having a great idea is watching it come to life right before your eyes”! In addition to providing the material for the show, audience members are encouraged to bring their own crazy “props” that the actors will use during the show!
Photo by NJSDA.jpg
DATE NIGHT SPECIAL FOR “THE LAST FIVE YEARS” @ CROSSROADS THEATRE: ORDER NOW WITH DISCOUNT CODE
If you missed this song-cycle 2-character musical at the Women’s Theater Company last month, you can catch a different version (with an interracial cast) at Crossroads Theatre in New Brunswick in April. Here’s a discount to help you get there:
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ADULT PLAYWRITING STUDENTS READ PLAYS THIS FRIDAY
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Monday, March 26, 2012
PORTRAITS HONOR HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS AND THEIR LIBERATORS @ THE KAPLAN JCC
SURVIVORS AND LIBERATORS
Portraits by Wilma Bulkin Siegel
WHEN: On display April 1-26; Meet the Artists Reception, Sunday, April 1, 1-3 PM
WHERE: Waltuch Gallery of the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, 411 East Clinton Avenue, Tenafly
The exhibit, planned to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, was created by Dr. Wilma Bulkin Siegel, who has painted and narrated the lives of 58 Holocaust survivors (24 will be on display in the current exhibition). Looking to examine the conflicts and lessons of the Nazi era, Dr. Siegel has woven together an extraordinary album that documents the lives of people who survived unfathomable events. Each portrait is a beautiful and haunting masterpiece, and viewed together, they serve as a “living” memorial that honors their collective memory, and the memory of all others who have been impacted by the Holocaust.
“Upon the liberation of the concentrations camps in 1945, the movie theaters were showing pictures of the horrors that took place within them, and my father insisted that I go to see them,” say Dr. Siegel. “I was about eight years old. Horrified, I turned to my father and asked, Why could I have not done something about this? So, you see, in contemplating why I did this series, I am playing out my guilt and trying to do something about the terrible problem of bigotry in our world. Hopefully, these remarkable people can help all of us think about our purpose in this world and how we can stamp out bigotry since we are a country of Freedom.”
The portraits also serve as a record of the last of the generation who lived through the Holocaust and are entering the last chapters of their lives. Their stories now live on and their message to the world remains important because they remind us of the vast destruction that can occur if we allow prejudice and bigotry to continue.
Gallery hours are Monday – Thursday, 9 AM – 10 PM; Friday and Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM; closed Saturday and Jewish holidays. Admission is free and open to the community. For more information contact Rochelle Lazarus at 201.408.1408 or visit the JCC website at www.jccotp.org
TAKE A WALKING TOUR OF THE HANDS ARTS DISTRICT
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MARCH MADNESS REIGNS @ PLAYHOUSE 22 THIS SATURDAY
Playhouse 22 will celebrate March Madness on with two exciting events—one for kids, the other for adults:
The Hilarious Funzapoppin Magic Show
Performed by Taubenslag Productions
For children ages 4 and up
WHEN: Saturday, March 31, 1 PM
WHERE: Playhouse 22, East Brunswick Community Arts Center at 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
TICKETS: $7 for children and $10 for adults. Group rates are available.
Spend the afternoon with comedy, songs and magic.
An Evening of Art Songs and Opera
WHEN: Saturday, March 31, 8 PM
WHERE: Playhouse 22, East Brunswick Community Arts Center at 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
TICKETS: $15. Group rates are available.
Featuring a selection of classic American, German and French songs followed by selections from the opera, La Forza Del Destino, the evening will conclude with a complementary dessert reception.
Tickets are available online at Playhouse22.org, by calling the Box Office at 732.254.3939 or at the Box Office window.
ONE-DAY FREE DANCE EXTRAVANGAZA FOR FAMILIES
DANCE FOR LIFE
Multicultural dance troupes, hands-on workshops, a family health fair and more!
WHEN: Saturday, March 31, from 1:00-4:00 PM
WHERE: Arline and Henry Schwartzman Courtyard at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH), 1 Robert Wood Johnson Place, New Brunswick
ADMISSION: free, and open to the public. Registration begins at 12:30.
For more information, contact Adam at Young Audiences New Jersey at 1.866.500.9265 or e-mail info@yanj.org
This popular family event is presented annually by Young Audiences New Jersey, in collaboration with the Community Health Promotion Program of RWJUH, with generous support from Johnson & Johnson.
This year’s “Dance for Life” theme features performances from multicultural dance troupes, hands-on dance workshops and even an on-site health fair focused on childhood health and wellness issues. Children of all ages are welcome, accompanied by a parent/guardian or other favorite adult.
“Dance is not only a beautiful art form, it’s also a great form of exercise,” said Larry Capo, executive director of Young Audiences New Jersey. “We hope that our talented performers and our workshops will inspire children and their parents to learn more about dance, and also find fun new ways of being active and healthy together as a family.”
This year’s Family Arts Festival events include:
Professional Dance Performances, featuring:
- Ginga Brasileira – Capoeira dance from the heart of Brazil.
- The Seventh Principal – Inspired by West African dance and music traditions.
Student Dance Performances by:
- Ballet Folklórico Xochipilli Mexican Dance Troupe
- Lustig Dance Theatre Jr. Ensemble
- King’s Academy of Dance Arts
- I AM PHRESH Dance Studio
Dance Workshops:
Children and adults alike will explore dance from different cultures in four fun, active workshops, including workshops with members of our professional performing groups:
- Brazilian Dance
- West African Dance
- Latin Dance
- Ballroom Dance
Local Dance Schools:
Learn about the classes and wellness programs offered at the following dance schools:
- Lustig Dance Theatre
- InSpira
- King’s Academy of Dance Arts
- RaÃces Cultural Center
- I AM PHRESH Dance Studio
Family Health Fair:
Visit the health fair area for information on nutrition, safety, and tips on how the whole family can stay active and have fun together.
About Young Audiences New Jersey:
Since 1973, Princeton-based Young Audiences New Jersey has been bringing creativity and inspiration to children and educators through innovative, curriculum-rich arts education programming. Each year, YANJ artists provide extraordinary, inspiring arts experiences to nearly 500,000 kids and 1,600 teachers across New Jersey—from pre-kindergarten through high school—serving all 21 counties with dynamic assembly presentations and artist-in-residence workshops. Now, YANJ is also working in partnership with Young Audiences of Eastern Pennsylvania.
YANJ is the first arts education organization designated as a major service organization by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and, as part of the national network of Young Audiences, Inc. was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Clinton. The 4,500 programs provided annually by YANJ are made possible in part through a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State and funds from the National Endowment for the Arts. Visit www.yanj-yaep.org.
Thank you to the Somerset County Library—Bridgewater Branch librarian Carol Levin for alerting the NJ Arts Maven about this event!
GIVE YOUR STUDENTS A POST-TESTING GIFT OF THE BARD
If you are a teacher, member of your child’s school’s PTA or administrator, why not bring Shakespeare to your school this Spring? It’s the perfect time and way to introduce the kids to the Bard. If you’re in doubt, you can attend a preview at the STNJ theater in Madison on April 14:
live@ShakespeareNJ.org (link on graphic will not work)
REVIEW: “THE TEMPERAMENTALS” @ ALLIANCE REP
With all the buzz about gender equality these days, it's difficult to recall that, over 60 years ago, homosexuals lived in fear of losing their jobs, of being arrested, of being shunned by others. In fact, they often used code words to subtly discern likeminded individuals.
One such word was "temperamentals," a slang term used by the five former Communists (and self-professed "rebels") and closeted gay men who founded the Mattachine Society in 1950, almost 20 years before the Stonewall riots put homosexuality on the front pages of the newspapers. And it is the story of this short-lived attempt to gain political, cultural and legal stature for an "oppressed sexual minority" that forms the basis of John Marans' thought-provoking docudrama, The Temperamentals, now being given a serious and sobering production by Alliance Repertory Theatre that reminds us how far we as a society have come and how arduous the trip has been for those making the journey.
The Mattachine Society, conceived by teacher, labor advocate and Communist Harry Hay in Los Angeles, took its name from a medieval secret fraternity of unmarried men who wore masks when they performed, traditionally during the Feast of Fools (the Spring Equinox, which is now), when they could criticize the powerful with impunity.
Hay wrote the manifesto for a group that would protect and improve the lot of homosexuals and showed it to his lover, Rudi Gernreich, a Jewish refugee from the Holocaust and a budding designer with ties to famous people in Hollywood. The younger man became an enthusiastic supporter of the idea and shared it with several gay men he knew; the five organized the society according to the cell model of the Communist Party, of which several were members. When one of the men, Dale Jennings, was arrested for allegedly performing a lewd act in a men’s room, the group decided to take the case to court to address the frequent entrapment of gay men by police. Despite the spread of Mattachine Society chapters in other cities, younger members worried about the organization's left political slant, leading to the five founders to resign their leadership positions in 1953. The Mattachine Society disbanded in 1961.
Once again, David Christopher's firm direction leads his cast smoothly through a myriad of scene (and for some, character) changes to maintain the dramatic tension and evoke our compassion for these brave individuals. The actors include Alliance Rep veterans and a couple of newcomers, yet the group performs as an ensemble.
James Morgan (left) is particularly fine as Harry Hay, godfather of the society. Dressed conservatively in a suit and tie, Morgan's Hay looks the least like a homosexual; in fact, the man is married and has two daughters, but he's tired of hiding his sexuality. Morgan effectively conveys the man's pain and intelligence. Dustin Ballard (at top, above) makes a spectacular Alliance Rep début as Rudi Gernreich, complete with just enough Austrian accent and effeminate body English to suggest the essence of the man without descending into caricature.
The other three actors assume a variety of minor roles, but really stand out as the remaining founders of the Mattachine Society. Gus Ibranyi (right) is convincing as Bob Hull, the most "out there" of the group, swanning and swishing around as though he hasn't a care in the world. Most of the humor in the play comes from his character. As former cop turned carnival worker Dale Jennings, Eddie Capuano (center) shows toughness and resilience appropriate for a person who decides to risk everything to proclaim his homosexuality in open court to make a political point. And Michael Lasry (second from right) is fine as Bob's love Chuck Rowland; he is terrific in several minor roles, such as Vincente Minnelli (closeted gay but wed to Judy Garland) and fashion designer Nigel Butler, among others.
Using five chairs and swinging road signs, David Munro has designed a set that serves many locations, all of them easily identified by the audience and effortlessly changed by the actors themselves. Dori Strober has provided costumes appropriate to the characters: Hay in a rumpled suit, Gernreich outfitted in a black shirt and pants that fit his body very well, Jennings in a sweater and a cap.
In a culture where very little is private, it may be difficult for us to understand just how difficult life was for homosexuals in the 1950s. Actors like Tab Hunter and Rock Hudson lived deep in the closet, fearful of losing fans and roles. Gay men were regularly counseled to marry and father children as a cover for their real sexual natures. If young people, especially, don't seem to find the matter of gender equality a big deal, chalk it up to the brave members of the Mattachine Society; it may have been short-lived, but its effects reverberate today.
The Temperamentals will be performed by Alliance Repertory Company at the Edison Valley Playhouse, 2191 Oak Tree Road, Edison, through April 7, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM. For information and tickets call 908.755.4654 or visit online at www.alliancerep.org.
(CRITIC’S NOTE: The opening night performance was marred by the behavior of several audience members—probably friends of the actors—who laughed loudly and inappropriately at many points in the action. In fact, I had to change my seat during intermission to avoid being disturbed. It didn’t help much. Note to performers’ friends: your loud guffaws do no service to your friends’ thoughtful performances and detracted from the mood of the play. Desist. —Ruth Ross, NJ Arts Maven)
Photos by Howard Fischer.
TWO RIVER THEATER PRESENTS LEGENDARY SINGER MAUREEN MCGOVERN
CARRY IT ON
FEATURING HER POWERFUL INTERPRETATIONS OF THE SONGS OF HER GENERATION — MUSIC BY THE BEATLES, BOB DYLAN, CAROLE KING AND MORE
Co-conceived and written by Philip Himberg and Maureen McGovern
Directed by Philip Himberg
Arrangements and music direction are by Jeffrey Harris
WHEN: Tuesday, April 3 - Sunday, April 22 (scroll down for performance dates and times)
WHERE: Rechnitz Theater, Two River Theater Company, 21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank
TICKETS: Single ticket prices start at $37. Discounts are available for groups, seniors, students, and patrons aged 30 and under.
Tickets are available from 732.345.1400 or www.trtc.org.
Before Play: Jeffrey Harris, Maureen McGovern’s longtime accompanist and music director, will speak about their collaboration in Two River’s popular Before Play series, a free lecture that takes place in the lobby before every performance in the Rechnitz Theater. Before Play starts 45 minutes prior to each performance and is sponsored by Zager Fuchs, PC.
Post-Play Conversations: Discussions hosted by an artistic staff member will take place on the following dates: Wednesdays, April 11, at 7 PM and April 18, at 1 PM, and Sunday, April 15, at 3 PM.
Accessibility: Two River Theater is fully wheelchair accessible and offers assisted-listening devices and large-print programs at every performance. Audio-described performances are scheduled for Wednesday, April 18, at 1 PM and Saturday, April 21, at 8 PM. Tickets to this performance are $15 for patrons needing audio description. An open-captioned performance is scheduled for Saturday, April 21, at 3 PM. Tickets to this performance are $15 for patrons needing open captions. To reserve wheelchair-accessible seating or tickets for a performance listed above, patrons should call 732.345.1400.
The one-woman biographical musical, which will include new material for this production, is co-conceived and written by Philip Himberg and McGovern, and directed by Himberg, Producing Artistic Director of the Sundance Institute Theatre Program
In a career spanning 40 years, legendary pop vocalist Maureen McGovern has been hailed as the “Stradivarius Voice” and acclaimed for her concerts and Oscar-winning/Gold records, as well as her theatrical performances on Broadway. In her musical memoir, Carry It On, she brings her story to life with extraordinary interpretations of the songs of her generation—music by the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and many others. In addition to powerful renditions of iconic songs that influenced her on the way to her first big hit, “The Morning After,” Carry It On includes McGovern’s humorous and life-affirming personal reflections on her life and events that shaped the country. (Photo by Deborah Feingold)
Carry It On was originally produced as a theatrical companion piece to McGovern’s 2008 album, A Long and Winding Road (PS Classics), which has been praised by The New York Times as “...a captivating musical scrapbook from the 1960s to the early ’70s.” This production includes newly added material.
“I am thrilled to have one of my own personal favorite singers on the Two River stage,” says Artistic Director John Dias. “Maureen McGovern is a legendary pop singer and Broadway star, and simply a wonderful performer. In this show, she tells us about her own life, using the music of her generation—songs that are now considered the second half of the Great American Songbook. Guided by the brilliant director Philip Himberg, the show is a special kind of theater experience.”
The creative team includes scenic designer Neil Patel, costume designer Gayle Baizer, lighting designer David Lander, projections designer Maya Ciarrocchi, and sound designer Zach Williamson. The stage manager is Robert V. Thurber.
Carry It On is sponsored by Lead Production Sponsor Lawrence Durso, Durso Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, and Co-Sponsor, The Molly Pitcher Inn, Oyster Point Hotel, and J.P. Barry Hospitality, Inc.
*PERFORMANCE TIMES:
- Tuesday, April 3 at 8 PM
- Wednesday, April 4 at 7 PM
- Thursday, April 5 at 8 PM
- Friday, April 6 at 8 PM
- Saturday, April 7 at 8 PM (Opening)
- Sunday, April 8 at 3 PM
- Wednesday, April 11 at 1 PM and 7 PM
- Thursday, April 12 at 8 PM
- Friday, April 13 at 8 PM
- Saturday, April 14 at 3 PM and 8 PM
- Sunday, April 15 at 3 PM
- Wednesday, April 18 at 1 PM and 7 PM
- Thursday, April 19 at 8 PM
- Friday, April 20 at 8 PM
- Saturday, April 21 at 3 PM and 8 PM
- Sunday, April 22 at 3 PM
FOOD, INC. — OPEN TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS & ADULTS
FOOD, INC.
Academy Award nominated film
WHEN: Wednesday, March 28, 7 PM
WHERE: Warren Municipal Courtroom, 46 Mountain Boulevard in Warren
ADMISSION: Free
How much do you know about the foods that you eat? All high school students and adults are welcome to watch Academy Award-nominated Food, Inc., and learn about the foods we eat every day, how they are produced and the effect of their production on the environment and on our health.
Following the movie, Wanda Knapik, owner of "My Local Garden," will moderate a constructive discussion on the topic.
This event is brought to you by the Warren Township Green Team and Recreation Committee, in partnership with the Watchung Hills Regional High School Environmental Club, and the Green Teams and Recreation Departments of Watchung, Long Hill and Green Brook.
Please RSVP to Ila Gillenwater, irgillenwater@hotmail.com if you and/or your intend to come so that adequate seating and refreshments may be prepared.
Thank you to Roseann’s Macaroni Kids for the information on this program.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
REGISTER YOUR CHILD NOW FOR PREMIERE STAGES SUMMER THEATER CAMPS
Premiere Stages proudly offers two innovative camps for middle school and high school students.
SESSION 1: Camp PREMIERE—Let's Put on a Show
WHO: Recommended for Middle School Students: Ages 11 – 14.
WHEN: : Monday through Thursday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Final showcase on Friday, July 27.
WHERE: Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave., Union
TUITION: $295.00 (A limited number of scholarships are available)
Students enrolled in Let’s Put on A Show will learn the elements of acting and play development through innovative, active exercises and games that help them translate their creative ideas and impulses into fully conceptualized and mountable original performances for the stage. Working with professional actors, directors and playwrights in a fun, creative and collaborative environment campers will craft and star in their own showcase. This camp session culminates in a public performance of the campers’ work developed over the two-week period, followed by a certificate presentation and reception for the participants.
SESSION 2: Camp PREMIERE—Taking the Stage
WHO: Recommended for High School Students: Ages 15 – 18
WHEN: Monday through Thursday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Final presentation Friday, August 3.
TUITION: $295.00 (A limited number of scholarships are available).
Students enrolled in Taking the Stage focus on the craft of acting including scene work, audition technique, monologue preparation, movement and voice/speech. Students all have the chance to work closely with professional actors and directors, as well as guest artists in fields such as stage combat, casting and improvisation. Campers perform monologues as well as scenes from original plays that have been developed through the Premiere Stages Play Festival. This camp session culminates in a public performance of the monologues and scenes, followed by a certificate presentation and reception for the participants.
In addition Kean University, the Kean Department of Theatre and its resident Equity theatre company, Premiere Stages, are working in cooperation with Paper Mill Playhouse to host the Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Conservatory on their Union, New Jersey campus.
For further information or to register for either camp please contact Clare Drobot, Producing Associate at: 908.737.4092 or via email cdrobot@kean.edu
Friday, March 23, 2012
ROSELAND PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY PRESENTS BALLET FAIRY TALE
SNOW WHITE
WHEN: Sunday, April 1, 1:00 PM
WHERE: Center for Performing Arts, James Caldwell High School, 245 Westville Avenue West Caldwell
TICKETS: $15 in advance (through March 30); $25 at the door; Organization Group Discount Rates of $10 for groups of 10+
Contact for advance ticket sales: Lauren Lanfrank 973.941.5385 or RPACTICKETS@gmail.com
Website: http://www.roselandpac.com
Roseland Performing Arts Company is debuting Snow White. This two-act show is a classical ballet that will feature dancers from the Roseland Performing Arts Company (West Caldwell NJ) and four professional dancers, including world-renowned ballet dancers Tanner Schwartz (Milwaukee Ballet) as Prince, Michael Crawford (American Repertory Ballet), Joshua Kurtzberg (American Repertory Ballet) and Jessica Lavorgna (Roseland PAC director).
QUEEN OF KIDS’ MUSIC THROWS ANIMAL PARTY @ NJPAC ON MARCH 31: 1 SHOW ONLY!
LAURIE BERKNER BAND
“The queen of kids’ music.” – People Magazine
WHEN: March 31, 11:00 AM (one show only) (Show runs approx. 1 hour 15 min.)
WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark
TICKETS: $18.00, $28,00, and $38.00, plus applicable fees. Children under one (on laps) are free
*Infants under the age of 1 sitting on a lab may attend for free with a comp ticket that needs to be picked up day of show at the venue box office
Tickets may be purchased online at www.njpac.org or by calling 1-888-GO-NJPAC
Children’s music superstars and Nick Jr. channel favorites The Laurie Berkner Band are on an “Animal Party” tour, and will will perform old favorites as well as new songs from their DVD, Party Day!.
Kids can bring a favorite stuffed animal (those in the know will put them on their heads for Pig On Her Head) and wear their party clothes (don’t forget dancing shoes!).
Party Day! (Two Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie) entered the Billboard Top Music Videos chart at #1 when it debuted this summer. The joyous title track has now come to life in Party Day, an interactive musical adventure eBook available exclusively on Barnes & Noble’s NOOK Color and NOOK Tablet. Party Day is both NOOK Kids’ and Laurie’s first-ever original NOOK Kids Read and Play™ book, featuring animation and interactive games.
The Laurie Berkner Band has received tremendous critical acclaim.
Time Magazine lauded Laurie as “a kind of sippy-cup Sheryl Crow…Berkner inhabits a kid’s curious perspective in her lyrics and pens folk-pop melodies that bear repeated—very repeated—listenings.” The Wall Street Journal called Laurie “one of the most popular children’s performers in America … Her music is distinctive because it speaks to kids without talking down to them, charming youngsters without boring grown-ups.” Stefan Shepherd, NPR contributor and editor of the leading kids’ music news website Zooglobble.com, describes Laurie as being “without a doubt the brightest female star in kids music (and quite possibly the biggest star, period).”
A former preschool music teacher by day and indie rocker by night, Laurie Berkner started selling her music over ten years ago out of her living room on her own label, Two Tomatoes Records. Laurie was the first artist to ever appear in music videos on Nick Jr., Nickelodeon’s 24-hour educational, commercial-free preschool network, and is featured in nearly all of the episodes of the channel’s Jack’s Big Music Show.
The Laurie Berkner Band has teamed up with Heifer International in 2012. Families can make a $1.00 donation to Heifer at the show and receive a Laurie Berkner Band prize! Heifer International is an organization that helps provide livestock, seeds, or training to a family struggling with hunger and poverty. Visit http://www.heifer.org/ for more information.
RENOWNED ARCO ENSEMBLE PERFORMS @ ENLOW HALL
ARCO ENSEMBLE
New Jersey’s virtuoso string orchestra
WHEN: Saturday, March 31, at 7:30 PM
WHERE: Enlow Recital Hall is located at 215 North Avenue in Hillside, NJ.
TICKETS: $25 standard and can be purchased by calling Kean Stage Box Office at 908.737.SHOW (7469), online at http://enlowhall.kean.edu, or in person at Kean University’s Wilkins Theater Box Office.
Arco Goes Latin is their show celebrating Iberian heritage with a program led by guest conductor Gisele Ben-Dor (above).
A formidable and incandescent presence on the podium, Ben-Dor is overwhelmingly praised for her appearances with major orchestras and opera houses throughout the world.
Among her list of past successes, Ms. Ben-Dor has led the New York Philharmonic, London Symphony, London Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Helsinki Philharmonic, Minnesota Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, New World Symphony, Israel Philharmonic , Jerusalem Symphony and the Israel Chamber Orchestra, as well as the Seoul and Rotterdam Philharmonics, and many orchestras in France, Italy and Latin America.
Arco Ensemble was founded by violinist Victoria Stewart. Her concert experience includes solo, chamber music, symphonic, and opera performances across the globe. While maintaining her position on the Kean University Concert Artist faculty and her busy freelance schedule, Stewart has eagerly embraced the challenge of managing the operations of Arco.
The Arco Ensemble consistently thrills audiences with its dynamic, polished and exciting performances led by world renowned guest conductors. A.E.’s broad and interesting programming appeals to seasoned concert lovers as well as to those who have yet to experience the joy of hearing great music performed live. The current sixth season marks the ensemble’s third year presenting concerts in Kean University’s shining jewel, Enlow Recital Hall.
WQXR is a media sponsor of Gene & Shelley Enlow Recital Hall. For complete Enlow Hall 2012 Season information, please visit the website or contact Ms. Cory Ransom, Director, Operations 908.737.5932, ransomco@kean.edu.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
STAND-UP COMEDY NIGHT RETURNS TO LUNA STAGE
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SONIC HOOLIGANS ASK, “WHAT DOES MUSIC LOOK LIKE?” @ RVCC THIS SATURDAY
MAYHEM & MAJESTY
WHO: Squonk Opera
WHEN: Saturday, March 24, at 8 PM
WHERE: RVCC Theatre, 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg
TICKETS: $22 & 32
In Mayhem and Majesty, the sonic hooligans of Squonk Opera push the boundaries of musical athleticism and visual wizardry, while asking the question…“What does music look like?”
Each song evokes different atmospheres and dynamics, which are made vivid through mesmerizing projections and constantly transforming scenery.
One moment you are alone in a swarm of stars with a gently swaying keyboard and a sparse lullaby your only guide. Then next, you see how romance is just a series of cell mutations set to post-punk beats. The Squonkers journey from the depths of moody minimalism to the heights of gypsy rock raucous delight.
CHARLIE DANIELS BAND @ UCPAC TOMORROW NIGHT
TICKETS: $39.50 - $65
(Ticket price includes all fees.)
BUY TICKETS HERE
www.ucpac.org (link on graphic will not work)
MORRIS MUSEUM HOLDS 3-PART LECTURE SERIES
Morris Museum introduces a Spring 3-part Lecture Series that explores the intersection of art and science through stimulating topics and speakers selected to spark curiosity and discovery.
At the Crossroads of Art and Science
WHERE: Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Road (at the corner of Columbia Turnpike) in Morristown
TICKETS: Tickets for all three lectures are $40; single tickets are $15.
For registration, call 973.971.3706.
The first lecture in the series takes place on Saturday, March 24, at 6:30 PM, and is part of the opening reception for the museum’s major exhibition of Chinese ceramics, Harmony in Clay: The Elegance and Refinement of Song Ceramics. Rosemary Scott, International Academic Director, Asian Art at Christie’s, and an internationally renowned scholar, curator and author, will present an insightful program on Chinese ceramics. The title of the talk is “Artistic Refinement and Technological Innovation: Chinese Ceramics of the 10th-14th Centuries.” Tea and Chinese sweets will be served following the program.
The second lecture addresses the question Can Design Be Life-Changing?, based on the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and Gustav Stickley. On Thursday, April 12, at 7:30 PM. Wright and Stickley’s impact will be the focus of a discussion with Donna Grant Reilly, author of An American Proceeding: Building the Grant House with Frank Lloyd Wright and Peter Mars, vice chair of the Board of Trustees at the Stickley Museum at Craftsman farms, Morris Plains, NJ. Ms. Reilly’s book tells the story of her parents building a home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Mr. Mars is a furniture and home product designer. Ms. Reilly will sign copies of her book after the program. Dessert and coffee will be served following the program.
The Survival of the Beautiful is the final lecture in the spring series, and takes its title from a recent book by speaker David Rothenberg. On Wednesday, May 9, at 7:30 PM, Mr. Rothenberg will present his revolutionary examination of the interplay between beauty, art and culture in evolution. He will provide music for his talk, and will sign copies of his book following the program. David Rothenberg is an author, philosopher, musician and humanities professor at New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark. Dessert and coffee will be served following the program.
About the Morris Museum
The Morris Museum is an award-winning, community-based arts and cultural institution which serves the public through the presentation of high caliber permanent and changing exhibitions in the arts, sciences and humanities. The Museum also offers educational programs, family events, and is home to the Bickford Theatre and its wide range of performing arts offerings. Continuously serving the public since 1913, the Morris Museum has been designated a Major Arts Institution and has received the New Jersey State Council on the Arts’ Citation of Excellence, among other awards. In 2013 the museum will celebrate its Centennial Anniversary. These programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation; the F.M. Kirby Foundation and the New Jersey Cultural Trust. Harmony in Clay is sponsored by the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation.
The Museum is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM; Thursday, 11 AM to 8 PM; and Sunday, 1-5 PM. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults and $7 for children, students and senior citizens. Admission is always free for museum members and is free to the public every Thursday between 5 and 8 PM. For more information, call 973.971.3700, or visit www.morrismuseum.org.
IMAGES:
Qingbai Figure of Guanyin, Southern Song (1127-1279), Jiyuanshanfang Collection.
Book Cover: An American Proceeding: Building the Grant House with Frank Lloyd Wright by Donna Grant Reilly.
Image: David Rothenberg, author of The Survival of the Beautiful, playing soprano saxophone in the Arctic, off the islands of Svalbard, Norway. Photo by Andrea Galvani