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Thursday, July 31, 2014

FREE TRAVELING SHAKESPEARE @ VARIOUS DATES & PARK VENUES AROUND NORTH JERSEY

HUDSON SHAKESPEARE COMPANY PRESENTS

per01PERICLES
By William Shakespeare (and George Wilkens)
Directed by Noelle Fair

A wandering king looking for love and family, a jousting tournament for a princess’ hand, Greek dances, bold assassins, goofy pirates, and a visit to a down on its luck brothel with a dash of divine intervention punctuate Hudson Shakespeare Company’s production of Pericles, Prince of Tyre, by William Shakespeare and George Wilkens. [left: King Pericles of Tyre (Lawrence James) goes on a road trip through far flung Mediterranean locales to reunite with his wife Thaisa (Lisa LaGrande, left) and Marina (Morgan Patton)]

Shakespeare’s great adventure story is about the King of Tyre who travels to exotic lands in search of a bride and the unexpected turns of fate which steers his life in remarkable ways. “Pericles” is full of exotic locales and provides a visual feast for the audience as we sail from coast to coast meeting an eclectic cast of characters. Pericles is full of murder plots, jousting knights, belly dancing, magic, love, loss, hope – and – most of all – PIRATES!

The final installment in their 23rd season of traveling Shakespeare in the parks program will perform at:

WHEN: Thursday, August 7th, @7 PM
WHERE: Hamilton Park, Jersey City, NJ, 8th Street & Jersey Avenue
(Rain location under the park's gazebo)

WHEN: Friday, August 8th @ 7 PM
WHERE: Van Vorst Park, Jersey City, NJ, Montgomery Street & Jersey Avenue(Rain location under the park's gazebo)

WHEN: Saturday, August 9th @ 5 PM
WHERE: Long Pond State Park, West Milford, NJ, (Rain location - Long Pond Iron Works Visitors Center)

WHEN: Monday, August 11th @ 7 PM
WHERE: Frank Sinatra Park in Hoboken, NJ, 410 Frank Sinatra Drive (No rain location)

WHEN: Tuesday, August 12th @ 7:30 PM
WHERE: Monument Park, Fort Lee, NJ (No rain location), 1588 Palisade Avenue

WHEN: Wednesday, August 13th @ 7:30 PM
WHERE: Staib Park, Hackensack, NJ, 174 Davis Avenue (Rain location Hackensack Cultural Arts Center, 39 Broadway, Hackensack, NJ)

WHEN: Thursday, August 14th @ 7:30 PM
WHERE:
Kenilworth Public Library, 548 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ

WHEN: Saturday, August 16th @ 7 PM
WHERE: Historic Jersey City and Harismus Cemetery, Jersey City, NJ, 435 Newark Avenue (Rain location - Tent on site)

WHEN: Monday, August 18th @ 7 PM
WHERE: Frank Sinatra Park, Hoboken, NJ (No Rain Location), 410 Frank Sinatra Drive

WHEN: Tuesday, August 19th @ 7:30 PM
WHERE:
Monument Park, Fort Lee, NJ (No Rain Location), 1588 Palisade Avenue

WHEN: Wednesday, August 20th @ 7:30 PM
WHERE: Staib Park, Hackensack, NJ, 174 Davis Avenue (Rain location Hackensack Cultural Arts Center, 39 Broadway)

WHEN: Saturday, August 23rd @ 2 PM
WHERE:
Stratford Public Library, Stratford, CT, 2203 Main Street (Rain location Stratford Public Library Lovell Room)

ADMISSION: The play is free to the public and family friendly. Note, the show at Jersey City Cemetery has a suggested $10 donation for cemetery upkeep. Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets as seating is limited in most venues and coolers to enjoy the festival atmosphere. For more information, visit hudsonshakespeare.homestead.com  or call 973.449.7443.

According to director, Noelle Fair, “We’re using music and physical storytelling to help the audience along the way. We create shipwrecks and other magical feats by using simple elements like wooden dowels, pretty umbrellas, blue scraps of fabric and variety of international music. I’m hoping to deepen certain character moments, elaborate on other points within the story, and to also display the depth of these events and show how integral they are to the pay off at the end.”

About the play:
Written in 1607-8, Pericles, the Prince of Tyre, marked a departure for Shakespeare. After several years of writing the great tragedies like Macbeth and King Lear, he dabbled in a new style of mixing comedy and tragedy together, usually with a mix of divine intervention and a journey that would dominate the rest of his writing career.

The new style has come to be known as his “Romances,” of which The Tempest is a part.

Pericles holds two distinctions that set it apart from other Shakespeare plays. First it was not originally published in the collection of his works known as the First Folio. For years it was a disputed work but was finally accepted into his cannon of accepted work. Secondly, it was written in collaboration with another writer named George Wilkens, who moonlighted as a brothel owner. This fact, obviously, adds a level of authenticity to the brothel scenes late in the play. Published in 1609 in a cheap volume known as a “quarto”, the text was cobbled together from recollections of actors who had appeared in productions, leading to a difficult text to work from. This is perhaps one of the reasons it was left out of the First Folio.

MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES MUSIC LINEUP, FAMILY ACTIVITIES: 8 HOURS OF FREE MUSIC

Snip final flyer

5TH ANNUAL MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL
WHEN:
 August 16th, 12 noon to 8:00 PM

WHERE: Nishuane Park, Montclair (Directions: http://bit.ly/Q4wiry)
To volunteer, become a vendor, or for more information, visit www.montclairjazzfestival.org, and the Montclair Jazz Festival Facebook page, email info@jazzhousekids.org or call 973.744.2273. For information about Jazz House Kids, visit www.jazzhousekids.org.

Produced by Jazz House Kids with support from lead sponsors City National Bank, North Coast Brewing Co. and Arctic Glacier, this year’s festival is hosted by award-winning actor S. Epatha Merkerson. Featured headliners include Jazz House Kids Artistic Chair Christian McBride with special guest John Scofield; Chuchito Valdés; Melissa Walker; Bruce Williams and More to Go; and The Jazz House Faculty Collective. Jazz House Kids large ensembles, including the award-winning Jazz House Big Band, will perform alongside the professional musicians throughout the day.

The Montclair Jazz Festival is a fun-filled day with entertainment for the entire family. Returning to the festival is the Family Jazz Discovery Zone, a collaboration among Jazz House Kids and partners Montclair Public Library and Montclair Art Museum, which will feature healthy snacks, music-related story books read by festival musicians, and a host of other kid-friendly art activities for wee-boppers and their parents. Also returning to the festival is the popular Beer Garden, sponsored by North Coast Brewing Co.

Emmy and Golden Globe winning actor S. Epatha Merkerson, best known for her 17-season run as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on NBC's "Law and Order," for which she won three NAACP Image Awards, is the Montclair Jazz Festival’s Mistress of Ceremonies.

Also added are the artistic talents of Andres Chaparro, whose interpretive portrait of Christian McBride will be the face and overall texture of this year’s Montclair Jazz Festival. In addition, the festival will be recorded for distribution on PRX (the Public Radio Exchange) to be broadcast on national stations and the European Broadcasting Union.

The Montclair Jazz Festival is the brainchild of jazz vocalist and recording artist Melissa Walker, with creative direction from her husband, Christian McBride. Walker is the president and founder of Jazz House Kids, a Montclair-based nonprofit that has gained a reputation as one of the nation’s preeminent arts education and performance organizations.

"This year, we celebrate five years of bringing vibrant jazz and culture to music lovers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and beyond,” says Walker. “We are thrilled that our festival continues to grow, as this year we expect thousands of fans to join us for a day of great music, food and fun.”

Christian McBride.cropArtist-in-Residence Christian McBride is a GRAMMY Award-winning bassist, composer and arranger. He has been one of the most important and omnipresent figures in the jazz world for more than 20 years. He also serves as Artistic Chair for Jazz House Kids.

 

 

2011-02-12-John-Scofield-1This year, McBride welcomes the master improviser John Scofield, whose guitar work has influenced jazz since the late 70’s and still remains powerfully relevant today. Best known for his groundbreaking work with Miles Davis, Scofield is a legendary jazz musician who performs in a wide array of styles, including post-bop, funk edged jazz, and R & B. Scofield will be one of the many artists at the festival reading jazz-related children’s stories at the Family Jazz Discovery Zone.

 

Also starring on this year’s festival lineup is the incomparable, Chuchito Valdés with “Mambo Revolution – Bebo, Cachao And Me." Valdés, who follows in the footsteps of his famed father Chucho Valdés and grandfather Bebo Valdés, continues the great piano tradition that was born in Cuba and now is celebrated worldwide. With influences of Caribbean rhythms and jazz, he creates an exciting and energetic blend of dance music that brings audiences to their feet. Valdés will read children’s stories at the Jazz Discovery Zone in his native tongue, Spanish.

Lovers of standards will be musically delighted as Melissa Walker sings in tribute to legendary jazz vocalists Nina Simone and Abbey Lincoln. Both women were trailblazers who made immense contributions to the jazz art form. Jazz House Kids faculty member Bruce Williams also will lend his melodic talents to the festival. This powerful jazz saxophonist is one of the premier alto and soprano saxophonists today. Also performing is The Jazz House Faculty Collective, musically directed by Julius Tolentino, the group is comprised of nationally and internationally recognized jazz artists who also serve as faculty members for the Jazz House Summer Workshop.

The future of jazz will be showcased as more than 125 students from the Jazz House Summer Workshop perform throughout the day. WBGO Jazz 88.3 FM’s on-air host Gary Walker will serve as the stage host, providing an “inside scoop” on the many talented performers.

FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES @ UCPAC IN RAHWAY

5 performances spaces: Mainstage, Hamilton Stage, The Loft, Front Room and 1591

2014 Free Mayor's Summer Concert Series!

WHEN: All Concerts Start at 7:30 PM
WHERE:
in Front of the UCPAC, 1601 Irving Street, Rahway

  • PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE
    Thursday, August 7
  • BROTHER JOSCEPHUS AND THE LOVE REVOLUTION
    Thursday, August 14
  • SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY AND THE POOR FOOLS
    Thursday, August 21
  • AMY HELM
    Thursday, August 28

FEARLESS PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS “THE LARAMIE PROJECT” IN PARLIN

securedownloadTHE LARAMIE PROJECT
by Moisés Kaufman
Directed by Jim Walsh

WHEN: August 8, 9, 15, 16 at 8:00 PM and August 10 and 17 at 3:00 PM
WHERE:
Main Street Theater Company, 3018 Bordentown Avenue, Parlin
TICKETS: $20 and can be purchased by calling 732.553.1153 or on-line at www.smstc.org.  
This show contains extremely mature content and adult themes and is not recommended for children.

In October 1998 a twenty-one-year-old student at the University of Wyoming was kidnapped, severely beaten and left to die, tied to a fence in the middle of the prairie outside Laramie, Wyoming. His bloody, bruised and battered body was not discovered until the next day, and he died several days later in an area hospital. His name was Matthew Shepard, and he was the victim of this assault because he was gay.

Moisés Kaufman and fellow members of the Tectonic Theater Project made six trips to Laramie over the course of a year and a half in the aftermath of the beating and during the trial of the two young men accused of killing Shepard. They conducted more than 200 interviews with the people of the town. Some people interviewed were directly connected to the case, and others were citizens of Laramie, and the breadth of their reactions to the crime is fascinating. Kaufman and Tectonic Theater members have constructed a deeply moving theatrical experience from these interviews and their own experiences.

THE LARAMIE PROJECT is a breathtaking theatrical collage that explores the depths to which humanity can sink and the heights of compassion of which we are capable.  One of the ten best plays of the year. A pioneering work of theatrical reportage and a powerful stage event." —Time Magazine.

"Astonishing. Not since Angels in America has a play attempted so much: nothing less than an examination of the American psyche at the end of the millennium." —Associated Press.

"There emerges a mosaic as moving and important as any you will see on the walls of the churches of the world…nothing short of stunning…you will be held in rapt attention." —New York Magazine

The storyline of the show has hit hard for many of the actors portraying these real-life characters.  All of the actors in the show play a variety of roles and want to make sure each character is an accurate and true representation of the actual people in the town. Kristine Stringer (of Maplewood, NJ)  explains, “As an actor, the work is a challenge in that each of us in the cast play multiple characters, so in preparing I’ve had to think about each character’s personality, emotions and thoughts, and mannerisms.  I know that I’m playing a real person, saying those person’s exact words. Usually when you’re in a play, you are saying the playwright’s lines, your character may be a ‘good guy,’ a villain, complicated; but they are fictional, and your job is to make that character real. Here, the characters ARE real.”

Actor Russ Ortiz (of Iselin, NJ) feels strongly about the message of the show, “ It is not just a historical retelling of an event that transfixed the world, but is more a capture of this tragic event told by way of the recollections and emotions of the towns people that lived through it. By Reading and performing these words you get a sense of what they were going through and to an extent, walk in their shoes.” 

Director Jim Walsh (of Atlantic Highlands, NJ) gave his actors some excellent advice to stay true to the meaning of the show and the characters, “Do not judge your character. The show has such an important social message; it's important not to demonize characters you disagree with but tell their story.  In turn, the message will be more profound! This group of actors embodies this message and what it means as an actor to be FEARLESS!

The rest of the cast includes: Jeff O’Neill of Freehold, NJ,  Ami Martino of Clark, NJ, Mary Sullivan of Freehold, NJ, Debbie Bernstein of Maplewood, NJ, Joey Caramanno of Staten Island, NY, Tim Kelsey of Freehold, NJ, Kara Wilson of NYC, NY, and Becky Stromberg of Matawan, NJ.

About Fearless Productions
FEARLESS PRODUCTIONS... strives to create entertaining theatrical productions that walk on the very edge of the edge, leap enthusiastically with our hearts on our sleeves, and dare to be daring. We recognize that the responsibility of true art is to firmly grasp the attention of our audience for as long as we are asking for it. We accept this challenge with the courage that only comes with doing exactly what we feel we were born to do... Simply put... Our NAME is our MISSION STATEMENT... For more information about FEARLESS PRODUCTIONS visit our website at www.fearlessprod.com

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

“SPRING” AWAKENS IN CHESTER THIS WEEKEND ONLY

If you missed this musical on Broadway, ReVision Theatre in Asbury Park, Kean University in Union, or any of the other venues where it has been performed, not to worry. Here’s your chance to see something different, provocative (leave the little ones at home) and very cutting edge, while it tells a great story:

spring final

WHEN: Thursday 7/31, Friday 8/1, and Saturday 8/2, 7:00 PM
WHERE:
West Morris Central High School auditorium, 259 Bartley Road in Chester
TICKETS: $15.00 for general admission
TKTSTheatreinthemaking@gmail.com
theatreinthemaking.com

Centering around a group of teenagers at the turn of the 19th century, Spring Awakening is a poignant story about the struggles of children learning to shed their innocence, along with the consequences entailed of growing up. Filled with rock tunes and bubbly pop music alike, Spring Awakening is sure to leave audiences with a powerful reminder of the joys and tribulations that come with adolescence.

ADVISORY: In order to present its honest depiction of humanity and adolescence, this beautiful and inspiring show contains mature themes and strong language. Parental discretion is advised. (Note: The show, however, is moving, beautifu, and educational and more than the red flags it seems to produce out of context.)

Theatre in the Making is a comprehensive theatre experience for high school students in the tri-state area. Participants in the program gain experience in many aspects of theatrical production, including acting, singing, choreography, set/prop construction and tech/design. Participants not only learn the fundamentals but also begin to appreciate theatre as a machine of many parts. In addition, this program strengthens student learning in other areas such as problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and self-expression.

Last summer, we produced Jonathan Larson's RENT as our first annual show.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

LIGHT OPERA OF NJ TO HOLD AUDITIONS FOR UPCOMING SEASON

AUDITION NOTICE:

Light Opera of New Jersey (formerly Ridge Light Opera of NJ )

Auditions for upcoming season, including

  • The Gondoliers by W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan
  • A Little Night Music by Stephen Sondheim
  • The Most Happy Fella by Frank Loesser
  • The Merry Widow by Franz Lehar
  • The Elixir of Love by Gaetano Donizetti

WHEN:

Sunday, August 17th, starting at 1 PM (in New Jersey)
Tuesday, August 19th, starting at 11 AM (in New York City)
Sunday, August 24th, starting at 1 PM (in New Jersey)

WHERE:

  • New Jersey Audition Location:
    St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
    140 South Finley Ave
    Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
  • New York City Audition Location:
    Nola Studios Studio C
    250 West 54th St.
    New York, NY 10019

Auditions are by appointment only. To be considered for an audition time, please submit your resume/experience and photo (if available) by email to lightoperanj@optonline.net

Other contact information can be found at http://lightoperaofnewjersey.org

Please no calls.

An audition fee of $15 to cover accompanist costs is payable upon arrival. Fee is waived for current company members and those only auditioning for ensemble or secondary roles.

Exact performance dates for the additional 2015 and 2016 productions shown above to be determined.

Principal roles are paid positions including additional commuting travel stipend based on distance and transit type.

October 2014 show:

The Gondoliers
by W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan

Roles
The Duke of Plaza Toro, A Grandee of Spain:
Comic Baritone
Luiz, his attendant: Baritone
Don Alhambra Del Bolero, The Grand Inquisitor: Bass
Marco: Tenor
Giuseppe: Baritone
Antonio: Baritone
Francesco: Tenor
Giorgio: Bass
The Duchess of Plaza Toro: Contralto
Casilda: Soprano
Gianetta: Soprano
Tessa: Mezzo Soprano
Fiametta: Soprano
Vittoria: Soprano
Giulia: Soprano
Inez: Mezzo Soprano
Ensemble of Gondoliers and Contadine et al

Performance dates:
Friday, October 10th, at 8 pm
Saturday, October 11th, at 8 pm
Sunday, October 12th, at 2 pm
Thursday, October 16th, at 8 pm
Friday, October 17th, at 8 pm
Saturday, October 18t,h at 8 pm
Thursday, November 13th, at 7:30 pm
(Gilbert and Sullivan Society, NYC)

See More

AN ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL THIS WEEKEND IN MONMOUTH COUNTY

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The Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County and the Axelrod Performing Arts Center are teaming up to present a summer Israeli Film Festival featuring recent acclaimed films. On Wednesday, July 30, 2014 at 7 PM the Museum will offer Bethlehem, and on Sunday August 3, 2014 at 2 PM it will show the peppy spy comedy Kidon. Tickets are $10.00 per person per film. All performances are partially funded by the Jewish Federation of Monmouth County.

Bethlehem is a police procedural drama that highlights Israeli Intelligence use of Palestinian informants. It shuttles back and forth between different, conflicting points of view and is a raw portrayal of characters torn apart by competing loyalties and impossible moral dilemmas. It stars first time actors Tsahi Halevi and Shadi Mar’I and was directed and co-written by Yuval Adler. It was shown at the Venice Days section of the Venice Film Festival where it won first prize.

Kidon is a different kind of Israeli film. Using Oceans Eleven as his inspiration, Israeli film maker Emmanuel Naccache uses the assassination of Mahmoud al Mabouh in his hotel room in Dubai in January, 2010 to launch his re-imagining of events movie. The hotel security cameras have caught the images of four Mossad agents red handed and their photos are splashed across newspapers world wide. Most surprised are Mossad leaders who know the faces in all the newsrooms had nothing to do with the incident. From then on it is a race against time to find the perpetrators.

For further information and tickets please call the Museum at 732-252-6990 or visit www.jhmomc.org to buy tickets online. The Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County is located at 310 Mounts Corner Drive in Freehold Township. It is a 501(c) (3) organization and is handicapped accessible.

FREE NATIONAL NIGHT OUT @ MENNEN SPORTS ARENA NEXT TUESDAY

www.morrisparks.net

A CHANCE FOR TEACHERS TO EARN CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CREDITS)

In New Jersey, teaching the Holocaust is mandated for our public schools. If you, as I did, already teach this subject or are preparing to teach it,you can take online course and get Continuing Education credits,

Ruth Ross

CEU Credits

www.jewishpartisans.org/learning

Monday, July 28, 2014

FREE 2014 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES IN RAHWAY THIS AUGUST

WHERE: behind the UCPAC, 1601 Irving Street, Rahway (if it rains, the show will move inside the theater)
ADMISSION: FREE

STNJ SETS FALL CLASSES FOR YOUTH, TEENS & ADULTS

www.ShakespeareNJ.org/Classes

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Sponsors

“ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR” IN LINCOLN PARK THIS WEEKEND

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www.aspirepac.com
aspirepac@gmail.com
201.440.4933

SUN, SURF, CARS & GIRLS: BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE BAND @ CENTENARY STAGE

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Woody-Logo

GOOD VIBRATIONS

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 2, 8 PM
WHERE:
Sitnik Theatre, Lackland Center, 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown
TICKETS: $35.00 adults, $25.00 under 18, Day of add $5.00
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

This exciting show takes us on a musical journey of sun, surf, cars and girls as these incredible musicians and performers capture the incomparable harmonies of THE BEACH BOYS, recreating their unique sound right before our ears. This is a high-energy show that gets the crowd on its feet as it moves to the greatest hits of America's most legendary band.

NEIL SIMON COMEDY OPENS @ RHINO THEATRE ON AUGUST 1

Sunday, July 27, 2014

TEENS PRESENT STAGED READING OF CLASSIC DRAMA @ MONDO SUMMIT

Another novel program at Mondo Summit, an interesting venue in downtown Summit:

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info@mondosummit.com for information and reservations

Saturday, July 26, 2014

REVIEW: “JERSEY VOICES 2014” A DRAMATIC FEAST IN CHATHAM

By Ruth Ross

Since I started reviewing in 1996, I think I have missed only three of the Jersey Voices one-act play festivals produced by the Chatham Community Players. Often, among the six offerings each summer, several soar while others fall a bit short. This year, however, to celebrate their twentieth anniversary, the troupe has selected 12 best of the best and presented them in repertory (six at a time). In doing so, they have given us a gift beyond value!

Grandparent's_DayThe six productions in Series A that I saw Friday night focus in the theme of love—in many forms. In Sickness and in China, written by Margaret Ruvoldt and directed by Steve Catron, a bride and groom's squabble about china on the wedding registry escalates into an existential struggle over the nature of their relationship. At the other end of the age spectrum, in Grandparents Day, written by Grace Wessbecher and directed by Joann Lopresti Scanlon, Irish Catholic Mary and Irish Protestant Albert recount their lost young love and the struggles they faced in forming their relationship—from the poignant vantage point of old age.

Desiree Caro and Anthony Rubolotta's dance sequence, Love Me Deadly, presents a dangerous side of love that ends badly for all involved. And Eleanor Descending a Staircase, written by Ian August and directed by Jon DeAngelis, the original director, hilariously recounts a woman's obsession with purchasing for her husband a print of Marcel du Champ's iconic Dadaist painting, Nude Descending a Staircase, that it seems no gallery or gift shop in New York, DC, Paris or Afghanistan (!) wants to sell her because it is considered anti-art and "we only sell art here."

The two final playlets take as their topic filial love. In Ebbets Field, written by Frank Briamonte and directed by Arnold J. Buchiane, a middle-aged man visits his demented father in a nursing home, during which he gets a glimpse of the man his father once was, an event triggered by the program for the third game of the 1955 World Series between the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees. The Run of the River, written by William C. Kovacsik and directed by Maybelle Cowan-Lincoln , reunites an aging father with his long-dead son as the two fish and recall the past.

I haven't given too much plot detail—just enough to whet your dramatic appetite—because each mini-production has charms and emotion you must experience for yourself, or the magic will be lost. Suffice it to say that, this time out, the performances and direction are better than ever—tight, fresh and delightful.

In_Sickness_and_Fine_ChinaMiriam Salerno is the quintessential bridezilla; Ken Vespasiano is equally as fine as her rather bewildered groom-to-be (left). Likewise, Geraldine Baillod and Howard Fischer (top photo), complete with credible Irish brogues, break our hearts as the unfulfilled lovers who missed out on shared happiness by the religious "troubles" in Northern Ireland. Judi Laganga is delightful as the obsessed art buyer, doggedly attempting to purchase that print; Brian Carroll plays the various clerks with cool assurance that he is right, thus turning the saying "the buyer is always right" on its pointy head!

Ebbets_FieldTake out the tissues for the final two plays. Michael King's very natural delivery conveys his delight at recalling the time his dad took him out of school for the baseball game paired with hopeful despair when Art Delo's Vince awakes from his Alzheimer stupor to talk to his son about the game, giving his son a glimpse of the man he used to be. Kendall Green is efficient yet kind as Leslie, the nursing home attendant (right photo). In the last play, Christopher C. Gibbs is perfect as the crusty old fisherman, obviously still grieving over his son killed in Vietnam and amazed to find the young man's ghost (played by Matt Lafargue) beside him in the boat. Their final conversation is moving without being maudlin; the two performances are equally first-rate.

The dance sequence, set to "Dead and Lovely," by Tom Waits, features Desiree Caro's fluid choreography performed with elegance and fine lines by Darius Delk as cold-hearted Charlie who preys upon women, killing them after wooing them. Katey Szabo is a naive First Love; Zetta Cool an elegant Starlet, and Melissa Kaban as the seductive Vixen—all of the dead but able to wreak revenge upon their killer.

Thank you to the Chatham Community Players for this anniversary gift. Writing a one-act play is much harder than it seems; maintaining a dramatic arc and actually having something to say in about ten to 15 minutes is quite a feat. These six writers, directors and performers do just that, in spades. Jersey Voices 2014 is a not-to-be-missed dramatic feast of fine proportions. Come hungry.

All performances of Jersey Voices 2014 will take place at the Chatham Playhouse, 23 N. Passaic Ave., Chatham through August 3. Series A will be performed July 27 at 7 PM and August 2 at 8 PM; Series B will be performed July 26 and August 1 at 8 PM and August 3 at 7 PM. There is a talk-back with the directors and actors after each performance.

For information and tickets, call the box office at 973.635.7363 or visit www.chathamplayers.org on line.

Photos by Jill and Howard Fischer.

Friday, July 25, 2014

CLASSIC MUSICAL COMES TO MCCC’S KELSEY THEATRE

LI’L ABNER
A musical comedy based on Al Capp’s cartoon script

WHEN: Fridays, Aug. 1 and 8 at 8 PM.; Saturdays, Aug. 2 and 9 at 8 PM; and Sundays, Aug. 3 and 10 at 2 PM. An Opening Night Reception with the cast and crew follows the show on Aug. 1,
WHERE:
Mercer County Community College’s Kelsey Theatre located on the college’s West Windsor campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road
TICKETS: $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $16 for students/children. Tickets are available online at www.kelseytheatre.net or by calling the Kelsey Theatre Box Office at 609.570.3333. Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible, with free parking available next to the theater.

It’s a typical day in Dogpatch, U.S.A., but life is about to get wackier than usual. M & M Stage brings the rip-roaring, foot-stomping 1950s musical Li’l Abner to life.

Based on Al Capp’s beloved cartoon strip, Li’l Abner combines hillbilly shenanigans with sharp political and social satire. As Sadie Hawkins Day approaches, Daisy Mae Scragg has her eye fixed on Li'l Abner with hopes of catching him in the annual race. But a senator comes to town to inform the citizens that the government has plans to turn Dogpatch into a nuclear testing ground. Can Mammy Yokum's Yokumberry tonic save the day? And will sweet Daisy Mae ever land her dreamboat? The show premiered on Broadway in 1956, with a film version to follow in 1959.

Pappy, Abner, Daisy Mae (Amber Payne) (Philadelphia) & Mammy  The show stars Glenn Kraft of Jamison, Pa., as Lil Abner; Amber Payne of Philadelphia, Pa., as Daisy Mae; Kathleen Kutalek of Hightstown as Mammy Yokum; Pat Parton of Hamilton as Pappy Yokum; Del Howard of Lawrence as Marryin’ Sam; Tom Bessellieu of Hamilton as General Bullmoose; Evan Bilinski of Franklin Park as Earthquake McGoon; Charles Denk of Princeton as Sen. Phogbound; Kristina Lunetta of Lumberton as Apassionata Von Climax; Joe Zedeny of Hightsown as Dr. Finsdale; Sally Page of Princeton as Stupefyin’ Jones; Liz Wurtz of Levittown, Pa., as Mayor Dawgmeat; and Tim Moran of East Windsor as Eagle Eye Fleagle. [Above L-R: Pappy (Pat Parton), Li'l Abner (Glenn Kraft), Daisy Mae (Amber Payne), and Mammy (Kathleen Kutalek)]

The ensemble features Reise Bridgers of Hamilton, Mike DiIorio of Hamilton, Kaitlyn Ely of Hightstown, Trevor Frantz of Yardley, Pa., Kimmy Graham of Yardley, Sally Graham of Yardley, JT Kaltreider of Columbus, Phillip McRae of Yardley, Pa., Linda Miller of Princeton, Andrew Millin of Lumberton, Hayley Rubins-Topelski of Langhorne, Pa., Ron SanGiovanni of Burlington, and Matt South of Levittown, Pa.

The production team includes producers Mike Almstedt and Mike DiIorio, director Matt South; choreographer Laura Murey-Ghaffoor, musical director Charlie DeMets, stage manager Angela Fasanella, lighting designer Robert Rutt, sound designer Nick Mastalesz and costumer Louisa Murey.

McCARTER THEATRE FALL EVENTS TIX GO ON SALE MONDAY!

McCarter Theatre in Princeton is gearing up for an exciting season. Check out their full list of events at www.mccarter.org, select those you’d like to see and call for tickets, beginning midnight Monday!

McCarter Theatre Center
91 University Place
Princeton, NJ 08540

Ticket Office: 609.258.2787

www.mccarter.org

Thursday, July 24, 2014

NJSDA KIDS ON STAGE PRESENTS "HONK", A NEW, FUNNY, HIP VERSION OF HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN'S THE UGLY DUCKLING

HONK!HONK!
music by George Stiles, and book and lyrics by Anthony Drewe

WHEN: Thursday, July 31st, and Friday, August 1st, 7 PM
WHERE:
WESTMINSTER ARTS THEATRE, BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE, 449 Franklin Street, Bloomfield, NJ
TICKETS: $15. For more information and tickets, please call 973.566.9700, Ext. 5.
www.njactors.org

Local kids give Bloomfield something to honk about! New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts Kids on Stage presents HONK! HONK! is a delightfully fun musical packed with sparkling wit, brilliant design, a memorable score and hilarious choreography—including a chorus of dancing frogs!

HONK! features 11 kids from local towns. The cast includes Shannon Bretz and Soula Garcia of Bloomfield, Madison Greendale, Saisha Wesley, and James Smith of Montclair, Das Meghne of Edison, Samantha Luk of Fairfield, Aneesah Abdur-Razzaq of Plainfield, Kiana Carbone of North Arlington, Maggie Buckley of Summit, and Amaya Loyal-Benton of Orange.

The show is directed by Mikaela Kafka. Kafka has been working professionally as an actress and director for over 20 years. Her directing credits include Little Mermaid, Bugsy Malone, Into the Woods, Fiddler, High School Musical and Charlie Brown. As an actress Mikaela has received rave reviews from the New York Times ("great comedic timing") and Talkin' Broadway ("Beautifully performed"). She was also nominated by the Star Ledger for the 2007 Best Actress of New Jersey Award. In addition to this, Mikaela has appeared in productions by the New York International Fringe Festival, Centenary Stage Company, Garage Theatre Group, Pittsburgh Playhouse, and New Jersey Dramatists.

The musical direction is by Terri Gorgone of Rutherford.

Founded in 2004, the New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts in Bloomfield, NJ has provided comprehensive professional acting training for adults, teens and children. More than 1,200 students, some of whom have gone on to pursue professional acting careers, have taken classes at the school since it opened its doors ten years ago.

 

PTNJ & MADISON DEPT. OR RECREATION PRESENT “ONCE ON THIS ISLAND”

The Madison Department of Recreation, in partnership with
Playwrights Theatre,
present

ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
A Musical
Books and Lyrics By LYNN AHRENS
Music By STEPHEN FLAHERTY
Based upon the novel, My Love, My Love, by Rosa Guy

WHEN: July 31, at 7:30 PM; August 1, at 7:30 PM; August 2, at 2:00 PM
WHERE: Madison High School, 170 Ridgedale Avenue, Madison, NJ.
TICKETS: $10 for Adults, $5 Children & Students; Senior Citizens No Charge
(Madison Senior Center 973.593.3095)
Reserve online on our website or Call 973.514.1787 X31

CAST:
Aileen Bergin
Lily Bias
Luke Bias
Carolyn Bishop
Danielle Cenicola
Rachel Cenicola
Erin Colligan
Loren Donnelly
Elise Hart
Fiona Hart
Jenna Katz
Sarah Lepre
Athena Macagnano
Meaghan Macagnano
Tabitha Macagnano
Olivia Matos
Sophia Matos
Natalie Mauro
Camille Miller
Maggie Murad
Grace Randall
Alexa Ruina
Emily Ruina
Erin Salko
Maggie Salko
Megan Tierney

PRODUCTION:
Brian Lang: Music Director
Najah A. Johnson: Choreographer

ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684
www.MTIShows.com

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

LAST 3 CHANCES TO SEE “SUMMER SHORTS” @ MONDO SUMMIT

SUMMER SHORTS: OFF THE HOOK
8 ten-minute plays by Contemporary Playwrights performed by 7 Actors.

  • The Thing with the Cosmos - Ben Clawson
    A friend tells his buddy how the universe really works, or why some things are best left unsaid.
  • Scrimmage - Phoebe Farber
    It's soccer mom versus the coach from hell.  Who scores?
  • Double Whammy- Liz Amberly
    Two women meet and try to understand their blind dates, or is that date.
  • 3 Guys & a Brenda- Adam Bock
    Why can't a woman be more like a man?  Just ask Brenda.
  • Coffee Talk - Brian Richard Mori
    What goes best with the best cup of coffee?  It's not danish.
  • The Session- Tom Block
    A therapist brings new meaning to "Doctors Without Borders."
  • Popcorn Sonata- Jenny Lyn Bader
    A babysitter faces her greatest challenge - mother and daughter.
  • Beer & Earrings - Mike Batistick
    All he wants is to enjoy the ball game.  All she wants is to know is who was playing

WHEN: July 24, 25, 26 – 8 PM; Doors Open 6:30 PM
WHERE:
Mondo Summit, Brownstone Theatre, 3rd level; 426 Springfield Ave., Summit
TICKETS: $24 adults / $15 for students
For reservations: info@mondosummit.com or 917.969.4534

This is a REAL Cafe Theatre.
Experience the full Cafe Theatre experience by partaking of the Artisanal Tasting Menu prepared by The Pampered Palate Chef. (Served on the 3rd floor theater level. Doors open at 6:30 for this.)
Prix fixe $18.
Click for full flyer.

STARS OF BROADWAY & COMEDY @ AXELROD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER THIS AUGUST

www.axelrodartscenter.com

BONJ HOLDS 2014 SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL IN AUGUST

www.baroqueorchestra.org/festival
97e.366.5822

ONLY 3 CHANCES TO SEE TEENS PERFORM IN “GODSPELL”

The Madison Department of Recreation, in partnership with Playwrights Theatre, present

GODSPELL
Conceived and Originally Directed by
JOHN-MICHAEL TEBELAK
MUSIC AND NEW LYRICS BY STEPHEN SCHWARTZ
Originally Produced on the New York Stage by
EDGAR LANSBURY / STUART DUNCAN / JOSEPH BERUH

WHERE: July 24 & 25, at 7:30 PM; July 26, at 2:00 PM
WHERE: Madison High School, 170 Ridgedale Avenue, Madison, NJ
TICKETS: $10 for Adults, $5 Children & Students
Reserve online on our website:
http://www.ptnj.org/specialevents.php?url=godspell or call 973.514.1787 X31

Senior Citizens - No Charge
Call Madison Senior Center 973.593.3095

Written by Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin), this long running musical (the original production ran over 2,100 performances, was revived 3 times, and a second revival in 2012) features pop, rock and folk style songs as well as lessons and skits. Schwartz has said the show was “never intended to be a “Sunday school lesson.” “Godspell, at its heart, is about the formation of a community out of disparate people coming together over very basic and simple philosophical concepts, such as ‘Always treat others as you would have them treat you.’”

CAST:
Anastasia Arvanites, Melissa Barry, Larry Bissett, Katharine Brundage, Loren Donnelly, Max Dreitlein, Mike Dreitlein, Pauline Figarelli, Najah A. Johnson,* Sahirah Johnson,* Jane Keitel,* Brian Lang, Kathryn McManus,Kristin McManus, Kavi Octane,+ Alex Post, Walter F. Rodriguez,** Jayati Samar.

PRODUCTION:
Danielle Constance - Director
Karen Romero - Music Director/Piano
Jane Keitel - Assistant Music Director/Recorder/Banjo/Accordion
Tom Hardy - Drums
Sabino Losco - Guitar
Tony Ventra - Bass
Remy Starker - Choreographer
Danielle Constance & James Sullivan - Set Design
Adele Hyman - Assistant Stage Manager
James Sullivan - Master Carpenter
Brian Lang - Logo Design/Grafitti Artist

*Appears Courtesy of Actors' Equity Assocation
** Equity Member Canidate
+Guest performance artist

We wish to express our gratitude to the Performers' Unions:
ACTORS' EQUITY ASSOCIATION
AMERICAN GUILD OF MUSICAL ARTISTS
AMERICAN GULD OF VARIETY ARTISTS
SAG-AFTRA through Theatre Authority, Inc. for their cooperation in permitting the Artists to appear on this program.

GODSPELL Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019, Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684
www.MTIShows.com

LUNCHTIME POEMS IN MILITARY PARK: A GREAT WAY TO SPEND YOUR LUNCH HOUR!

Lunchtime Poems in Military Park

Support our veterans and enjoy poetry—for free. Can you think of a better way to spend your lunch hour?

WHEN: noon every Thursday through August 28
WHERE: Military Park, Newark

This Thursday, July 24, join us in welcoming a very special set of readers to Lunchtime Poems in Newark's Military Park: veteran poets from Warrior Writers and Combat Paper NJ. Featured poets will be: Jan Barry, Kevin Basl, Sarah Mess, Walt Nygard, Eli Wright & James Yee.

Warrior Writers and Combat Paper NJ are veteran-focused arts organizations that foster artistic exploration and expression through casual, welcoming workshops and retreats.

You can also support veteran poets at the Dodge Poetry Festival! On October 25, 2014, readers from Warrior Writers, Combat Paper NJ, and more will participate in Another Kind of Courage at NJPAC’s Prudential Hall. Readers will include Pulitzer Prize winner Yusef Komunyakaa, Beatrice Hawley Award Winner and Iraqi War veteran Brian Turner and former Connecticut Poet Laureate Marilyn Nelson.

Tickets for the Dodge Poetry Festival can be purchased here.
Visit our website for more information about the 2014 Dodge Poetry Festival.

GET A TASTE OF JEWISH CULTURE ON MADISON AVE. IN NYC ON JULY 27th

It may not be cultural, but food and culture are intricately conjoined! And this may not be in New Jersey, but a quick trip across the Hudson River will bring you a plethora of ethnic dishes—and there is music:

Proudly progressive since 1900, today's Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring engages Jewish families in lifelong education, cultural celebration and progressive activism. 

Join us at www.circle.org

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

3 DAYS OF GREAT MUSIC ON THE CAMDEN WATERFRONT, SPONSORED BY WXPN

XPoNential Music Festival

WHEN: Friday July 25 – Gates @ 5 PM - Show 5:30 PM; Saturday July 26 – Gates @ 11:30 AM - Show 12 PM; Sunday July 27 – Gates @ 11:30 AM - Show 12 PM
WHERE:
Camden Waterfront, Wiggins Park / Susquehanna Bank Center, Mickle Blvd;, Camden (Venue Map)
TICKETS: $5 - $140
BUY TICKETS!

WXPN's XPoNential Music Festival is one of the summer's premier events and a recognized area tradition. Each year, tens of thousands of music lovers gather with family and friends for three days of great music, featuring a unique mix of emerging and established artists performing on three stages.

FINAL WEEK TO SEE “THE DEVIL’S DISCIPLE” @ STNJ

Only six performances left! Don't miss "The Devil's Disciple!"

Only six performances left! Don't miss "The Devil's Disciple!"

THE DEVIL’S DISCIPLE
By George Bernard Shaw

WHEN: through July 27th
WHERE:
F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, 36 Madison Ave., Madison (on the Drew University campus)
TICKETS: 973.408.5600 or www.ShakespeareNJ.org

Photo © Jerry Dalia
James Knight as Richard "Dick" Dudgeon

interACT GALA CELEBRATES THE JUKEBOX MUSICAL

WHEN: Friday & Saturday, August 1 & 2, 7 PM
WHERE:
The Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts, 10 Durand Rd., Maplewood
TICKETS: floor $35, balcony $25
Click here to purchase your tickets!
www.interactproductions.org

InterACT PRODUCTIONS ANNOUNCES 2014-2015 SEASON

InterACT Productions, the little company that brought us the dynamite Into the Woods this spring, has announced its 2014-2015 season:

WHEN: Dates to follow
WHERE:
Baird Center, 3rd Floor theater, 5 Mead Street, South Orange

http://www.interactproductions.org/

Monday, July 21, 2014

PUT ON YOUR PLATFORM SHOES: IT’S A BEEGEES TRIBUTE BAND @ CENTENARY STAGE

LogoBanner 2beegees-nightfever

 

Night Fever: A Tribute to the Bee Gees

WHEN: July 26, 8 PM
WHERE: Sitnik Theatre, Lackland Center, 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown
TICKETS: $35.00 adults, $25.00 under 18, Day of add $5.00
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

img_tribute_night-fever

Bee Gees’ Saturday Night Fever is the #1 production to the Bee Gees in the world. With an amazing look and fantastic vocals, you will re-live the Bee Gees on stage, in concert. You will be able to sing along to some of the greatest Bee Gees hits of all time such as, “Too Love Somebody, Night Fever, More Than A Woman Jive, Talking and Stayin’ Alive,” and many more!

This Bee Gees production has toured the world from Russia to Disneyworld, to sell out crowds performing all the songs from the early Bee Gees to the disco era. This all high energy Canadian act will have you up on your feet and dancing along to this incredible show.

“Amazing Show” —New York Times
“Incredible” —LA Times
“Vocally Superb” —Chicago Tribune


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