Thursday, December 31, 2015
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
TWEENS’ NIGHT OUT @ MILE SQUARE THEATRE THIS FRIDAY
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UCPAC HOSTS POETIC SINGER/SONGWRITER DEC. 4
PETER BRADLEY ADAMS
WHEN: Friday, December 4th, at 8 p.m.
WHERE: The Loft at Union County Performing Arts Center, 1601 Irving St., Rahway
TICKETS: $22 and can be purchased at www.ucpac.org.
The concert is part of the on-going Split Level Concert Series which highlights critically acclaimed singer-songwriters in a uniquely intimate setting.
A singer and songwriter whose work is musically subtle but emotionally forceful, Peter Bradley Adams was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and grew up in a musical family, taking inspiration from his grandfather, a jazz musician proficient in the piano and clarinet. Adams began learning the piano when he was six years old, and went on to study music in college. In 1999, he teamed up with singer and songwriter Kat Maslich-Bode to form the group Eastmountainsouth. In 2003, after the duo was discovered by Robbie Robertson of The Band, Eastmountainsouth released their first album through Dreamworks SKG Records. While the album received positive reviews and tracks appeared in movies and television, Dreamworks' record division was dissolved later the same year, and Eastmountainsouth broke up in 2004.
In 2005, Adams launched his solo career with a self-titled EP, and also began a sideline as a session musician. Since that time, he’s released five full-length studio albums, the most recent being 2014’s The Mighty Storm, which was called “a wondrous, poetic collection of enchanting songs” by Entertainment Realm Blog and “both soothing and challenging” by All Music Guide.
Upcoming Split Level Concerts include Mary Fahl (former lead singer of October Project) with special guest Rachael Sage at Hamilton Stage on December 19th, Owen Danoff and Cariad Harmon at The Loft at UCPAC on January 23rd, and Shannon McNally at The Loft at UCPAC on February 27th.
For a full listing of shows, visit the Split Level Concerts website at www.splitlevelconcerts.com and the Union County Performing Arts Center website at www.ucpac.org
WHAT HAPPENED TO THE PAGES? A NOTE FROM THE MAVEN
Dear readers,
You have probably noticed that I have removed the pages at the top of the blog—except for HOME and ABOUT.
I removed these pages because it was getting to be a real full-time job just “grooming” them—removing out–of-date material and substituting up-to-date information.
Now, if you want to find out what’s going on, simply SCROLL DOWN TO THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG. Find the label you are looking for (MUSIC, DANCE, THEATER, LIBRARY, KIDS, MUSEUMS or by individual venue), click on it, and all the relevant blog entries will come up for you to peruse.
I hope this will make navigating the blog easier and more current. I know it will save me lots of time.
May your holidays be happy!
Ruth Ross
SHIRAH COMMUNITY CHORUS ON THE PALISADES TO PERFORM ANNUAL CHANUKAH CONCERT
SHIRAH COMMUNITY CHORUS: ANNUAL CHANUKAH CONCERT
WHEN: Sunday, December 6, 2:00 pm
WHERE: Kaplen JCC on the Palisades’ Eric Brown Theater, 411 E. Clinton Ave., Tenafly
TICKETS: $20 and $16 for JCC members. To purchase tickets, go to www.jccotp.org/Thurnauer, call 201-408-1465, or visit the JCC’s front desk.
The SHIRAH Community Chorus on the Palisades, led by Matthew Lazar, founding director, and Marsha Bryan Edelman, associate conductor, will perform its 22nd annual Chanukah Concert. The program will feature celebratory songs from the Jewish choral tradition in Hebrew, English, and Yiddish. Tickets are
“What better way to celebrate our heritage, Israel and Chanukah than through the joy of hearing the music and lyrics of our people?” says Mr. Lazar.
The chorus is supported by founders Bernie (z”l) and Ruth (z”l) Weinflash and their SHIRAH Endowment Fund in tribute to Matthew Lazar; the Ethel and Irving Plutzer Endowment for the SHIRAH Choir; and the Rhoda Toonkel Endowment for the SHIRAH Choir and donations from supporters.
About the SHIRAH Community Chorus on the Palisades
SHIRAH was created in 1994 by Matthew Lazar, who founded and directs the Zamir Choral Foundation in New York. Lazar also created the acclaimed North American Jewish Choral Festival, now in its 25th year, as well as HaZamir: the International High School Jewish Choir Movement, with chapters throughout the United States and Israel. SHIRAH combines the openness of a no-audition choir with the excellence and precise interpretation that are the hallmark of ensembles conducted by Lazar. A project of the JCC Thurnauer School of Music, SHIRAH brings together singers from across the Jewish denominational spectrum to perform the great choral works of the Jewish experience. SHIRAH has been featured in concerts in the United States and Israel, including Avery Fisher Hall (Lincoln Center), the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the Bergen Performing Arts Center, and more. It also performs annually at the North American Jewish Choral Festival, and at synagogue concerts throughout the tri-state area.
About the JCC Thurnauer School of Music
The JCC Thurnauer School of Music has been named a Major Arts Institution by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Serving over 400 students from infancy through adulthood, it offers a comprehensive program similar to the finest pre-college conservatories. The Thurnauer experience includes instrumental lessons, ensembles, and classes, master classes with world-renowned artists; a chamber music series; faculty recitals; and frequent student performances. It is a member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education and received an award for “excellence and high standards” from The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.
For more information, please visit www.jccotp.org.
BONJ SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR 2016 PEARL & JULIUS YOUNG MUSIC COMPETITION
2016 Pearl & Julius Young Music Competition
- Application Now Available - click here
- Competition: Sunday, March 13 2016 at Noon
- Dolan Hall, The Annunciation Center, The College of Saint Elizabeth, 2 Convent Road, Morristown, NJ
- Application Deadline: December 31, 2016
- Contact Lisa Young, Chairperson - anicca2000@aol.com
- Competition for young instrumentalists, ages 16-22
- Winner Performs with The Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey, August 2016
1 WEEKEND, 4 PERFORMANCES OF “AMAHL & THE NIGHT VISITORS” IN BASKING RIDGE THIS WEEKEND
| One Weekend, Four Performances! |
TICKETS: $25 Reserved Seating for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. For more information about $10 Student Rush rates and savings for groups of 10 or more, visit www.lonj.org/tickets/. |
Light Opera of New Jersey is proud to present Gian-Carlo Menotti's Amahl and the Night Visitors with a special opening presentation of Howard Blake's The Snowman. Howard Blake's The Snowman is the charming musical adaption of Raymond Briggs' treasured story that will delight all ages. A young boy wakes up one night to find a snowman in his living room, and they take a magical adventure to the North Pole. Walking in the Air is the most famous, beautiful, and haunting section of the piece and many artists, including Celtic Women, have covered this song. Gian-Carlo Menotti's Amahl and the Night Visitors has become a part of many families' holiday tradition. It was first commissioned for television and premiered by NBC Television Opera Theatre in 1951. A poor young boy is awakened in the middle of the night by a knock on the door, and who should he find but three kings following a star. This one act opera emphasizes generosity and the importance of family, and is the perfect performance to start off your holiday season. LONJ is proudly producing Amahl for the fourth time in the company's 20 year history. Starring Carl Steffens and Ro Atre (Amahl), Susan Kirkland (Mother), John Lamb (Balthazar), Tom Donelan (Melchior), and Bill Corson (Kaspar).
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HOLIDAY SPECIAL @ DREAMCATCHER REP IN SUMMIT THIS WEEKEND
A Very Special (Holiday) Special
WHEN: Friday and Saturday, December 4 and 5 at 8:00 p.m
WHERE: Oakes Center, 120 Morris Ave. in Summit
TICKETS: $20.00, and $15 for students 15 and younger.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.dreamcatcherrep.org, or by calling Brown Paper Tickets at 800-838-3006.
Kick off the holiday season with the Dreamcatcher Company with their annual irreverent spoof of the holiday specials of yesteryear. If you enjoyed the corny fun of those old-fashioned holiday variety shows starring Donny and Marie, Perry Como and The Mandrell Sisters, you’ll love A Very Special (Holiday) Special at Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre. Dreamcatcher takes a break from their mainstage schedule to perform their affectionate send-up of traditional holiday entertainment.
The Dreamcatcher Resident Acting Company will entertain with holiday songs, comic sketches and improv, and lots of good old-fashioned fun. Each year’s show is original; past years’ performances included a Rockettes-style production number, take-offs on current reality shows and a post-holiday scene at the returns counter of a department store. This year’s show will include musical spoofs, topical sketches, and unique silliness. Performing in the show are Dreamcatcher Company members Clark Carmichael, Laura Ekstrand, Noreen Farley, Scott McGowan, Jason Szamreta, and perhaps a special guest or two.
Parking is available in the lot behind the theatre on Ashwood Avenue and at the Summit Recreation Center on Morris Avenue, as well as on the street. The facility is wheelchair accessible. To purchase tickets or for information on any of Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre's programs, please visit www.dreamcatcherrep.org or contact Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre at The Oakes Center, 120 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901, 908-514-9654.
About Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre:
Dreamcatcher was founded in 1994, and is a non-profit professional ensemble of actors who build community with the audience by sharing life-affirming stories in an intimate environment. We seek to expose theatregoers to ideas and lives like and unlike their own, to awaken their imaginations and create empathy for others. The company focuses on deepening the experience of our patrons by supplementing the performances with personal contact through receptions, talkbacks, and interactive programs.
Dreamcatcher's core company of professional local actors performs contemporary work that entertains and challenges, and has at its heart a belief in the essential goodness of people. The company’s activities include mainstage productions, improvisational comedy and cabarets, new play readings and a variety of educational and senior outreach programs.
Dreamcatcher’s programs are funded by 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, Dramatist Guild Fund, The Summit Area Public Foundation, the Manley-Winser Foundation, and many other corporations, foundations and individuals. Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre is a senior member of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance.
Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) corporation, incorporated under the laws of the State of New Jersey.
FESTIVE TEDDY BEAR TEA RETURNS TO MORRIS MUSEUM THIS SATURDAY
Festive Teddy Bear Tea
WHEN: Saturday, December 5. Seatings will be held at 11:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:00pm. Advance registration is required.
WHERE: Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Hgts. Rd, Morristown
TICKETS: $20 for Museum members and $25 for the general public. Tickets may be purchased by phone at (973) 971-3706, or in person at the Bickford Theatre Box Office. The Bickford Theatre is an integral part of the Morris Museum, located at 6 Normandy Heights Road in Morristown, NJ, and offers free parking and full accessibility. Box Office hours for phone sales are Monday through Friday, 10:00am to 5:00pm. Walk-up hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11:00am to 5:00pm.
Children and their families are welcome at the festive party with a selection of scrumptious teatime treats. The refreshments will be followed by a performance of "The Woodbin's Holiday Follies" in the Bickford Theatre. Starring renowned clown Dikki Ellis, this engaging show transports guests to the magical world of Santa's workshop. The Teddy Bear Tea concludes with a visit from Santa and his bag full of gifts. Perfect for families with children ages three to eight, this event offers a great opportunity for a holiday family photo.
NJ BALLET PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER” @ bergenPAC
NEW JERSEY BALLET’S NUTCRACKER
WHEN: SATURDAY, DEC 5, and SUNDAY, DEC 6, AT 1 PM & 4:30 PM
WHERE: bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood
TICKETS: $49-39-29
Tickets available at: www.ticketmaster.com or www.bergenpac.org or
Box Office (201) 227 1030
Bergen Performing Arts Center presents NJ Ballet’s The Nutcracker.
The performance on December 5th at 4:30PM and December 6th at 1pm will be Audio Described. The Audio Described schedule is subject to change and patrons are encouraged to check with customer services prior to the show. For additional information about this service, call (201) 816-8160, extension 43, or email customerservice@bergenpac.org.
For more than half a century, New Jersey Ballet has brought the Nutcracker ballet to families for a cherished holiday tradition. The first-rate traditional production never fails to enchant youngsters and grownups alike with splendid dancing, colorful costumes and scenery, eye-popping special effects, and a touch of holiday magic that inspires critics to applaud “a spectacle that never seems to age…magic that should go on and on,” and “One of the best…as good as it gets.”
Don’t miss this very special event as the professionals of the NJ Ballet are joined onstage by dance students from our local community and some of our very own beyondDANCE students!
PEPPA PIG APPEARS LIVE @ bergenPAC
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, AT 3PM and 6PM
WHERE: bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood
TICKETS: $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50
Tickets available at: www.ticketmaster.com or www.bergenpac.org or
Box Office (201) 227 1030
Bergen Performing Arts Center presents Peppa Pig Live in Peppa Pig’s Big Splash.
The new live-action adventure Peppa Pig’s Big Splash brings the hit Nick Jr. TV series to life in its first ever U.S. live theatrical tour and it’s more fun than a muddy puddle! Peppa Pig, star of Entertainment One’s (eOne) top-rated TV series, is hitting the road and is making a stop at bergenPAC!
Peppa Pig’s Big Splash is an action-packed live show, based on the popular Peppa Pig television series, designed to deliver to preschoolers and young fans an unforgettable first, live theater experience. A fully immersive musical production featuring a dozen familiar and original songs, as well as an interactive sing-a-long, the live stage show will have fans laughing and dancing – just like Peppa.
In Peppa Pig’s Big Splash, the nursery roof is leaking and Peppa and her friends need to fix it quickly. They set up a fair to raise money so Mr. Bull can do the repairs. There’s plenty of fun to be had as Peppa, George, Mummy and Daddy Pig, along with Danny Dog, Pedro Pony and Suzy Sheep work together to organize an exciting day out complete with a Champion Puddle Jumping competition judged by Mr. Potato, where everyone gets wet! An interactive experience full of singing, dancing, games, and muddy puddles, Peppa Pig’s Big Splash is a guaranteed blast for the whole family.
Come and join Peppa and her friends for another all-singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and muddy puddles!
WACKY COMEDY ONE-MAN SHOW @ bergenPAC FOR ONE NIGHT ONL
WHEN: THURSDAY, DEC 10, 2015 – 8PM
WHERE: bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood
TICKETS: $59-49-39-29
Tickets available at: www.ticketmaster.com or www.bergenpac.org or
Box Office (201) 227 1030
Bergen Performing Arts Center presents Steve Solomon: My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m Home for the Holidays.
From the star and creator of one of the longest running one-man comedy shows in history, My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy, we bring you My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m Home for the Holidays…..the therapy continues!
A time of Peace—a time of Joy—a time of remembering why you left home in the first place. Steve’s back with more wild and hilarious stories and characterizations about his family, friends and the other folks we meet whose sole purpose was to drive him into therapy in the first place. We all get to attend holiday dinner at Grandma’s where, if you’re under 55, you’re allowed to sit at the children’s table; 35 over-fed people and one toilet!
It’s another laugh filled evening of family chaos from the award-winning writer and comedian Steve Solomon. It’s the time of year we hear: Peace on Earth, Good will towards men, Batteries not included and Where’s the plunger?
STATE BALLET THEATRE OF RUSSIA TO PERFORM @ NJPAC
State Ballet Theatre of Russia presents
Romeo and Juliet
Shakespeare's timeless tale of tragic romance, set to music by Prokofiev, is danced by 55 of Russia's brightest ballet stars.
WHEN: Sunday, December 6, Doors at 2:30pm; Performance at 3:00pm
WHERE: NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark
TICKETS: Tickets Start at $29
This full-length production of Romeo and Juliet, choreographed by Michael Lavrovsky of Bolshoi Theatre Ballet, brings a celebration of true love onto the stage and into our hearts. "Full of enchantment!" says The New York Times. State Ballet Theatre of Russia, founded by legendary dancer Maya Plisetskaya, is directed by award-winning dancer and Moiseyev Dance Company soloist Nikolay Anokhin.
ABOUT NJPAC:
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. NJPAC is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey; where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey's Town Square, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing not only the state's, but the world's best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. Since opening its doors in 1997, NJPAC has attracted over eight million visitors (including more than one million children) in its continuing mission to nurture meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.
IRISH TENORS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS @ MAYO PAC IN MORRISTOWN THIS FRIDAY
A Christmas from Dublin
With The Three Irish Tenors
WHEN: Friday, December 4. at 8 pm
WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown
TICKETS: $29-59
Tickets at 973-539-8008 or www.mayoarts.org
Enjoy an old fashioned Irish holiday celebration when A Christmas from Dublin with the Three Irish Tenors comes to Mayo Performing Arts Center.
Tenors Ciaran Nagle, Karl Scully and Dillon McCartney perform seasonal favorites in an evening full of warmth, charm and music direct from the Emerald Island.
“LAST FIVE YEARS” REPRISED FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY AT 4TH WALL IN BLOOMFIELD
LAST FIVE YEARS
by Jason Robert Brown
WHEN: Monday, December 14, at 8:00 pm
WHERE: the Westminster Arts Center, 449 Franklin St., Bloomfield
TICKETS: $19.00 – $26.00
For more information, directions, and to purchase individual tickets, visit www.4thwalltheatre.org. Tickets may also be reserved by calling 973-566-9255.
https://squareup.com/market/4th-wall-theatre-inc
4TH WALL THEATRE brings back by popular demand, and for one night only, the Jason Robert Brown musical The Last Five Years.
Returning are Danny Arnold of Budd Lake and Madeline Fansler of New York to play Wellerstein and Hiatt.
Westminster Arts Center is located just minutes off exit 148 of the Garden State Parkway.
CHATHAM PLAYERS’ “JERSEY VOICES” CALLS FOR ORIGINAL WORKS BY JERSEY AUTHORS
JERSEY VOICES CALLS FOR ORIGINAL WORKS
Deadline March 15
The Chatham Community Players is seeking original, one-act plays, short musicals and/or original dance pieces, written by New Jersey authors, for Jersey Voices' 22nd Annual Production.
It is once again time to be thinking about submitting one-acts for Jersey Voices. For those of you who have already sent along submissions for Jersey Voices 2016—thank you! For those of you who have not, we want to remind you that the deadline is coming up soon - this year’s DEADLINE is MARCH 15th, just under four months away!
So please put the finishing touches on those plays sitting on your desk/desktop and send them along. This year, like last year, we are only accepting submissions by e-mail to the address listed below.
Play submissions of any genre (including short musical and dance pieces), style and length up to 15 minutes running time (we're serious about this) will be accepted through March 15, 2016. Selected pieces will each be performed in our Black Box Theater in Chatham on the last weekend in July and first weekend in August.
If we've not chosen your work in the past, please don't give up on us. Each year we have produced new pieces by an author whose work we've passed over in the past; it usually has more to do with trying to balance 6 separate pieces for an enjoyable evening of theater than it has to do with the quality of the piece which has been passed over. In fact, under these circumstances, we have often held over a piece we've liked and given it consideration in the following year. Some of these 'holdovers' have subsequently been chosen, produced, and favorably received.
We are looking forward to seeing your work this year and, as we know that many of you come to see Jersey Voices, to seeing you again this summer. If you have not already introduced yourself, when you're in the audience please stay for the reception we have after each performance and introduce yourself. We'd love to meet you.
If you have any questions, visit our website at www.chathamplayers.org or send an e-mail at jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org.
We're accepting scripts this year by e-mail only to: jerseyvoices@chathamplayers.org
BERGEN COUNTY PLAYERS PRESENTS ITS ANNUAL FAMILY SHOW—A CLASSIC TALE FOR ALL AGES
WHEN: November 28th through December 20th. Fridays at 7:30 pm and Saturdays & Sundays at 1 pm & 3:30 pm
WHERE: Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell
TICKETS: $14 for all performances
Tickets can be purchased online at www.bcplayers.org, by calling 201-261-4200 or by visiting the box office at during regular box office hours. Visa, Master Card, and American Express are accepted.
Those interested in Group Sales of 20 or more tickets can call (201) 261-4200, x6.
The Bergen County Players (BCP), the2015 NJACT Community Theatre of the Year, continues its 83rd season with its annual family show, Pinocchio, a beloved tale of a wooden puppet who wants to become a real boy, a classic story that will delight young and old alike. Pinocchio will be performed for 5 shows a weekend, meaning that there are many opportunities to enjoy this entertaining classic.
Set in Italy, the Prince Street Players version of this time-honored story will enthrall youngsters between the ages of 3 and 12, along with their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins (and even non-relatives!). Pinocchio (played by ViVi Aiello of Hillsdale) is a boy-sized puppet built by the caring puppet maker, Geppetto, (played by Bill Powers of Clifton) and is brought to life by the Blue Fairy (played by Katie Lupfer of Tenafly) as a reward for Geppetto's remarkably generous spirit. After singing and dancing his way through many adventures, Pinocchio learns that no love is greater than that of a parent for a child. And after the show, all of the characters will be available for autographs and pictures!
Pinocchio is directed by Terri Caust of Glen Rock, a BCP life member whose past directorial credits at the BCP include "Communicating Doors" and Cinderella.
The cast consists of ViVi Aiello as Pinocchio (Hillsdale), Bill Powers as Geppetto (Clifton), Rob Kopil as Antonio (Suffern, NY), Edie Orlando as Candlewick (Hillsdale), Randi Kestin as Gino (Fair Lawn), Katie Lupfer as the Blue Fairy (Tenafly), Leslie Cohn (Randolph) as Angelina, Daniel Reid as the Coachman (Emerson), Bridget Duffy as Signore Volpone (Haworth), Rosella DeVincenzo as Signore Gatto (Oradell) and Ricahrd Ciero (Oradell), Katie D'Ambrosio (New Milford), Iris Levinsohn (Oradell), Sienna Orlando (Hillsdale), Rebecca Peisach (Fair Lawn), and Gina Duffy (Haworth) as the Townspeople.
Production team members include Terri Caust, (Director), Steve Bell (Musical Director), Ron Siclari (Producer), Paul Reitnauer III (Stage Manager), Andrea Pieper (Assistant to the Director), Ron Drobes (Set Design), Lauren Zenreich (Décor), Messalina Morley (Choreographer), Peter Colletto (Lighting Design), Julie Steckler-Kopil (Lighting Operator), Neil Kahn (Sound Designer), Matthew Blum (Sound Operator), Ruth Morley (Costumes), Bridget Duffy (Makeup), Edie Orlando (Makeup), Pat Bain (Properties Design), Gloria Bumbaco (Properties/Crew), Alan Zenreich (Photography), Steve Mintz (Photography), Randi Kestin (Social Media) and Jennifer Cottone (Publicity/Website).
All patrons entering the theatre, including infants and small children, must have a ticket, even if the child shares a seat with a parent. A limited number of booster seats are available upon request and are provided at no charge.
Parking is free at the Park Avenue municipal lot, across the street, one-half block north of the theater.
The Bergen County Players has grown tremendously from its roots as a small community theater when it was founded in 1932; today, nearly 300 volunteer members, working on and off stage, make possible the nine productions presented each season.
Top: Bill Powers (standing) and ViVi Aiello
MORRIS CHORAL SOCIETY PRESENTS 12TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
WHEN: Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13 at 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Place in Morristown
TICKETS: $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for children under 18. Tickets are available at the Bickford Theatre box office, 973-971-3706.
For more information, call 973-267-9833 or visit www.morrischoralsociety.org.
The 70-voice Morris Choral Society kicks off its 43rd Concert Season with “Holiday Spectacular XII: Awe & Wonder.. Under the direction of new Music Director Matthew Lee, the chorus will perform seasonal favorites including works by John Rutter, Sergei Rachmaninov and Javier Busto along with some holiday surprises.
“I am honored to follow in the footsteps of founder and long-time Music Director Wayne Walters,” said Mr. Lee. “The Morris Choral Society has been a leader in North Jersey for more than 40 years and I plan on continuing the tradition of excellence established by Mr. Walters. This holiday concert has become a favorite over the years and we have put together a program that we know everyone will enjoy.”
Joining the Morris Choral Society for this holiday show will be Express Male, a sextet of tenors, baritones and basses drawn from the Chorus. The group will perform “Bide Bom” by David Eddleman, “Mary Sat A-Rockin’” by Greg Gilpin, plus “Little Drummer Boy,” “Peace on Earth” and “Way Down in Bethlehem.” The members of the group are John Collins of Raritan, Bud Leppard of Morristown, Chip Wood of Basking Ridge, Wayne Walters of Parsippany, Rob Walters of Long Valley and Al Perkins of Secaucus. Convent Station’s Ken Rapp will be the piano accompanist.
The Morris Choral Society has been recognized by Morris Arts as an Outstanding Arts Organization and has performed alongside many famous musicians including jazz legend Dave Brubeck and beloved singer Judy Collins. In addition to performing for enthusiastic audiences in New Jersey, the chorus has toured England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, Italy, Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic.
The Bickford Theatre performances have been made possible in part by Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Secretary of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
Photo courtesy of Bud Leppard.
STROLLER AUDITIONS BEGIN ON THURSDAY, DEC. 3!
How did the Universe begin? How was the earth created and all the creatures that live upon it? Cultures around the world have wondered for centuries and, through their musings and experiences, have given us a rich tapestry of creation stories. Join The Strollers in their celebration of Cre-A-tion.
Seeking gods and goddesses of all ages—adults and kids 7-years-old and up. (Parents are welcome to audition with their children!)
Come prepared to sing a simple song without accompaniment, read from the script and do some folk dancing.
All Performances take place at: The Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts, 10 Durand Road, Maplewood
Rehearsals are generally 3 nights a week, Mondays - Thursdays from 7:30 - 9:30pm. (The rehearsal schedule will be based on cast and space availability.)
Additionally, make sure to mark your calendars:
Auditions for Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday January 12 & 13.
More information will be available as we get into the new year. For now, all information is available at www.thestrollers.org.
ORCHESTRA OF ST. PETER BY THE SEA TO PERFORM @ UCPAC
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Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea WHEN: Dec. 5 at 8 p.m A holiday tradition continues at Union County Performing Arts Center when RSI Bank presents Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea. Father Alphonse Stephenson (above) conducts the Jersey Shore's favorite orchestral ensemble in a concert of holiday classics to benefit the UCPAC. Father Alphonse's very first orchestra was formed in New York's Theater District while he served at St. Malachy's, the Actor's Chapel. In 1980, the late Broadway director and choreographer Michael Bennett engaged him as conductor and music director of his smash hit, A Chorus Line. Recently retired as Chaplain, Brigadier General and Director of the Joint Chaplaincy Staff at the National Guard Bureau, he also served as Air National Guard Assistant to the Air Force Chief of Chaplains at the Pentagon. |
| To kick off the holiday season, the UCPAC will hold a free Holiday Bazaar in the UCPAC Mainstage lobby on Dec. 3 from 6-9 p.m.
The Friends of the UCAC will have a variety of holiday gifts on sale. The UCPAC box office will remain open so shoppers can purchase gift certificates and tickets to upcoming shows. |
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
MEET LOCAL AUTHORS THIS SUNDAY IN BOONTON
Local Author Showcase
WHEN: Sunday (Dec. 6)
WHERE: the historic Darress Theatre, 615 Main Street, Boonton.
Kicks off at 11 with Star-Ledger columnist and Pulitzer Prize finalist Mark DiIonno reading from his novel. Bill Westhoven closes the event at 3:45, reading from his novels "One-Hit Willie" and "The Puddingstone Well."
FREE ADMISSION, signed books for sale (they make a great holiday gift!). Come on over, walk in under the screen and stage (remember?) and support the local arts and merchants! And thanks to Bobby's News & Gifts for making this happen!
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS @ RUTHERFURD HALL ON SATURDAY
WHERE: Rutherfurd Hall, 1686 County Rd 517, Hackettstown, NJ 07840
(908) 852-1894
CREATE MUSIC & LYRICS TO DELIVER DRUG PREVENTION MESSAGE
Enter the 2016 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Contest
Entry Deadline February 1, 2016
New Jersey Shout Down Drugs challenges high school students to create original music and lyrics with powerful substance abuse prevention messages to allow teens to deliver the prevention message to each other through their favorite medium of music.
County Finalists are chosen by peer judges to perform their original songs at the Annual Statewide Prevention Concert, held in May, at a state-of-the-art venue.
First, second and third place winners are chosen by a panel of judges that night to receive music contracts worth $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000 respectively to perform their winning songs at different events throughout the state during the year.
THIS SATURDAY ONLY: SPECIAL “FROZEN” HOIDAY EVENT IN DOVER
If you reserve in advance, you SAVE MONEY when you come to attend. You can reserve by emailing Doverlittletheatre@gmail.com or call 973-328-9202 today.
2 DURANG COMEDIES TO BE PERFORMED BACK-TO-BACK IN SOUTH ORANGE BEGINNING THIS FRIDAY
by Christopher Durang
WHEN: opening Dec. 4; 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 4, 5, 11 and 12, and at 4 p.m. on Dec. 6 and Dec. 13.
WHERE: The Baird Cultural Center on 3, 5 Mead Street., South Orange
TICKETS: ALL TICKETS - $10
ORDER ONLINE HERE
The Actor's Nightmare
Directed by Christine Gaden
George Spelvin - Robert MacLachlan
- Meg - Sally Hourigan
- Sarah Siddons - Monah Yancy
- Henry Irving - Stephen Sigmund
- Ellen Terry - Chelsea Varga
Sister Mary Ignatius Explains it All for You
Directed By Nick Clarey
Sister Mary Ignatius - Kate Daly
- Gary Sullavan - Matt Coakley
- Diane Symonds - Jenny Hill
- Philomena Rostovich - Juanita Frederick
- Aloysius Benheim - Dorian McDonald
- Thomas - Rupert Muson
The Obie-winning one-act play, Sister Mary Ignatius... which will be performed along with Durang's comedy The Actor's Nightmare, opened in 1979 and had a two-and-a-half year run on Broadway. Controversial at the time, it is known as one of the best plays by Durang, whose Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike won the 2013 Tony for Best Play.
Sister Mary Ignatius.. and The Actor's Nightmare, the story of an accountant mistaken for an actor's understudy who is pushed onto the stage even though he doesn't know any of the lines, have been performed together since 1981.
***Contains Adult Themes***
SPECIAL GUEST EVENT @ GEORGE STREET PLAYHOUSE
I saw this Off-Broadway, and it is hysterical!
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WHERE: George Street Playhouse, 9 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick
MOSAIC DANCE THEATER PRESENTS 2 MAJOR NEW WORKS
Mosaic Dance Theater Company Presents
An Evening of New Works
WHEN: Saturday, December 12, at 8:00 P.M. and Sunday, December 13, at 3:00 P.M.
WHERE: Westminster Arts Center, 449 Franklin St., Bloomfield, NJ
TICKETS: free to the general public.
Advance reservations are recommended. Reservations can be made online at www.BrownPaperTickets.com/event/2267116, or call 1-800-838-3006.
For additional information, visit www.MosaicDanceTheaterCo.org.
Two major new works will premiere in the award-winning Mosaic Dance Theater Company’s (MDTC) annual concert in Essex County, N.J.
Opening the program are excerpts from Fo(u)r Women, created by Samara Adell, MDTC’s Artistic Director for Dance, and award-winning writer/composer Gary Kupper. The piece is directed by Mr. Kupper, with choreography by Samara. Fo(u)r Women is a theatrical multi-media dance celebration of four women of the Greater Middle East who overcame cultural and religious obstacles to attain greatness in their respective lives and times. Through song, dance and spoken word and aided by multimedia projections of photos, and archival film footage, the piece will tell the story of women’s timeless struggle for freedom to overcome the circumstances of their male dominated societies, embodying the majestic power and resilience of the human spirit. A featured excerpt tells of Enheduanna, from 2200 B.C. Sumer, the first recorded non-anonymous author in history.
Also premiering is La Lettera d’Isabella (Isabella’s Letter), an original scenario for the commedia dell’arte, a remarkable form of physical theater and improvisation that originated in Italy and became all the rage in Europe, from the 16th to the 18th centuries, and is the genesis of the modern comedy played by such luminaries as the Marx Brothers, Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy, to name a few. Created and directed by Morgiana Celeste Varricchio, MDTC’s Producing Artistic Director, the scenario highlights the theatrical traditions of commedia and its characters. The masked characters of Arlecchino, Brighella, Pantalone, and Il Capitano along with Isabella and Orazio, the pre-requisite pair of lovers, will be portrayed through movement and dance to an underscore of traditional Italian folk music. Completing the program is Bastianelo, a humorous Italian folk tale presented in MDTC’s signature style of dance/story theater.
The program features MDTC dancers Samara Adell, Morgiana Celeste Varricchio, Nina Brewton, Kendra Dushac, Mary Susan Sinclair-Kuenning, and guest performers Heather Panikkar, Mary Lowman, and Mackenzie Knapp.
Based in Glen Ridge, N.J., MDTC is dedicated to the dance and folkloric traditions of the Mediterranean region. The Company’s original dance, theater, and educational programs celebrate the rich diversity of cultures of the lands of North Africa, the Middle East, Turkey, Greece, Italy and Spain. The dances and music, the stories and myths, and the history and legends of this fascinating area form the wellspring of inspiration for MDTC’s creative vision. Founded in 2003, this critically acclaimed company is known for its artistry and authenticity, not only in creating the original works that comprise its repertory, but also in faithfully researching their origins to ensure cultural integrity. The Company is the recipient of the 2013 Sunshine Award for its contribution to the performing arts, recognized by NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) and the United Nations. MDTC tours nationally to performing arts venues, universities, and educational facilities.
This program is 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 and administered by the Essex County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.
A PHILLY EVENT FEATURES PHILLY FAVORITES
This event is not in NJ (not even in Northern NJ), but close enough: Philadelphia.
ONE-MAN “CHRISTMAS CAROL” COMES TO SNYDER ACADEMY IN ELIZABETH
NOTE: 4PM After-School matinees Thursday December 3rd and 10th.
Students just $10 for all performances!
Go to ascnj.org or dickensachristmascarol.org for tickets.
FESTIVE SHOWS @ MCCC’S KELSEY THEATRE IN WEST WINDSOR
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2 and 4 p.m.
WHERE: Kelsey Theatre is located on the college’s West Windsor Campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road.
TICKETS: $12 for adults, and $10 for seniors, students and children.
Three family shows are coming to Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC’s) Kelsey Theatre in December that will add to the festive holiday season. The month kicks off with a Kelsey holiday tradition. "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" embraces the joy of the long-awaited midnight visit by none other than Santa. Family audiences will delight in the Kelsey Players' musical adaptation of the famous poem by Clement Moore, originally penned as a Christmas present for his children. The show features Kris Kringle, along with his eight tiny reindeer, some remarkably talented sugar plums, and the cutest mouse in New York City. The Moore family and their neighbors will create a magical winter wonderland circa 1822 New York for audiences of all ages to enjoy.
The theater is an official drop-off site for the Marine's Toys for Tots annual holiday drive. Patrons are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped toy in the drop box located in the Kelsey Theatre lobby. Donations will be accepted through Monday, Dec. 14.
The "Twas" cast stars Ken Ambs of Newtown, Pa., as Clement Moore; Diane Wargo of Ewing as Eliza Moore; Carter Erickson of Yardley, Pa., as William Moore; Abby Scatena of Robbinsville as Charity Moore; and John Costello of Hamilton Square as Mr. Kringle.
Also featured are Jillian Ambs of Newtown, Pa., Logan Ambs of Newtown, Pa, Mason Ambs of Newtown, Pa., Jayden Anderson of Trenton, Taylor Bell of Hightstown, Alex Bischoff of Hamilton Square, Aimee Clark of Lawrenceville, Hayden Clark of Lawrenceville, Melissa Clark of Lawrenceville, Charlotte Erickson of Yardley, Pa., Bridget Godfrey of Robbinsville, Alexa Hunt of Manahawkin, Freddie Iezzo of Hamilton, Luddy Iezzo of Hamilton, Marla Iezzo of Hamilton, Mateo Iezzo of Hamilton, Makenzie Ivey of Lawrenceville, Peyton Ivey of Lawrenceville, Alexander Johnson of Hamilton, Christian Johnson of Hamilton, Quinzy McCallum of Ewing, Cameron Miller of Morrisville, Pa., Chandler Miller of Morrisville, Pa., Cameron Reardon of Cream Ridge, Leif Simonelli of Hamilton, Rilyn Szabo of Monmouth Junction, Isabel Urban of West Windsor, Tobias Urban of West Windsor, and Zachary Urban of West Windsor.
The production team includes Director Diane Wargo, Musical Director Pat Masterson, Choreographer Chelsea Wargo, Stage Manager Ginny McGowen and Assistant Stage Manager Tara Simonelli. Lighting and sound design is by Bernie McGowen and costumes are by Kate Pinner.
Next up, for two shows only, is “A Very Kelsey Christmas,” a premiere performance presented by Forté Dramatic Productions, on Saturday, Dec. 12 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Musical Director Peter de Mets presents an all-star cast of Kelsey performers in the style of a 1950s television variety show. It’s a mix of traditional, Broadway and pop favorites, plus skits and lots of cheer. Tickets are $18 for adults; $16 for seniors, and $14 for children/students.
Capping off the season is the New Jersey Youth Ballet’s original hour-long, narrated adaptation of "The Nutcracker" on Friday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 20 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Dancers in full costume will perform to the famous Tchaikovsky score as they transport audiences to The Land of the Sweets. Tickets are $16 for adults, and $14 for seniors, students and children.
Tickets for all shows may be purchased by calling the Kelsey Box Office at 609-570-3333 or online at www.kelseytheatre.net Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible. Free parking is available next to the theater.
TOP: clockwise from top left, Ken Ambs (Clement Moore), John Costello (Mr. Kringle), Diane Wargo (Eliza Moore), Abby Scatena (Charity Moore) and Carter Erickson (William Moore). (Photo by Rob Gougher.)
UPCOMING CONCERTS @ RUTHERFURD HALL IN ALLAMUCHY
| No Matter Your Taste in Music, You Will Enjoy the Upcoming Concerts at Rutherfurd Hall! |
| December 5th at 8pm, Begin your holiday celebration with a Very Jerry Christmas Concert! Enjoy the music of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead, and the musical influences behind the Grateful Dead phenomenon. We welcome back two entertaining bands who will play on two different stages: Uncle Shoehorn and Moonshine Creek -one electric-one acoustic for an unforgettable night of music! Tickets are $25 per person. Doors open at 7pm for light snacks. Cash Bar provided all evening. December 12 at 8pm, Rutherfurd Hall welcomes country rocker Nikki Briar and the SweetBriar Band. This Nashville recording artist will get your boots stompin' and your hands clappin'-guaranteed! See more about this talented performer at www.nikkibriar.com. Tickets are $25 per person. Doors open at 7pm for light snacks. Cash bar provided all evening. Tickets for events can be found via our website www.rutherfurdhall.org or by calling 852-1894 ext. 334 |
ADVENTUROUS PIRATE SHOW FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES IN UPPER MONTCLAIR
Peter and the Pirates
WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 and 3:30pm from December 5 through December 13.
WHERE: Studio Playhouse, 14 Alvin Place, off Valley Road near the Acme, in Upper Montclair.
TICKETS: $8; discounts are available for groups of 20 or more that prepay.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.studioplayhouse.org/tickets or by calling 973-744-9752.
Peter and the Pirates, an adventurous kids show for all ages and written by Larry Brady, comes to Studio Playhouse in Upper Montclair.
Meet our young friend Peter who loves to read. One day Peter falls asleep reading his favorite book about Pirates. Suddenly, he finds himself transported into a great adventure with bumbling pirates and a princess. Although he is just a lad, he saves the day and brings home a bit of treasure. Was it a dream or did it really happen?
Peter and the Pirates is directed by Annette Winter and stage managed by Alicia Hayes.
TOP: Captain Blackhead and his dastardly pirate crew (pictured left to right): Megan Hatem, Adam Angerer, Keith Hoovler, Mathew Hayes, Peter Curley & Suz Stone. Photo courtesy of John Frassinet.
Monday, November 30, 2015
CYBER MONDAY @ RVCC ARTS RUNS THROUGH JANUARY 4
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RECITAL IN FREEHOLD FEATURES MUSIC OF JEWISH COMPOSERS FROM 2 CENTURIES
www.jhmomc.org for information and tickets!
REVIEW: TUNEFUL, WRY MUSICAL VERSION OF ICONIC CHRISTMAS STORY WARMS HEARTS OF ALL AGES AT THE PAPER MILL PLAYOUSE
By Ruth Ross
What Dylan Thomas's prose poem, A Child's Christmas in Wales, is to millions of Welsh, Jean Shepherd's A Christmas Story is to millions of Americans. Whether you heard his recitation of the tale on late-night WOR-NY radio or watched the 1983 film starring Darren McGavin as Old Man Parker and Peter Billingsley as Ralphie, you are probably familiar with this iconic story of a little boy seeking a special gift—a Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model air rifle BB gun—that his teacher, his parents and even Santa think is inappropriate—and dangerous. [Above: L-R: Chris Hoch (The Old Man), Colton Maurer (Ralphie), Elena Shaddow (Mother) and Hudson Loverro (Randy) Photo by Billy Bustamante.]
Well, if you need to slake your thirst for holiday nostalgia or just want to introduce a youngster to this classic tale, head on over to Millburn's Paper Mill Playhouse for a polished, charming musical version of A Christmas Story—complete with cute kids singing and dancing; an apoplectic dad wrestling with the vicissitudes of daily life at the end of the Depression; a stoic, stalwart mother; and even a Jean Shepherd-like narrator to lead us through the tale while offering wry commentary on the antics of the Parker family of Cleveland Street in Homan, Indiana, at Christmastime 1940.
It's all there, just as you (and Jean Shepherd) remember it: the ugly leg lamp (above); the pink bunny suit; the tongue frozen to the cold flagpole; the visit to a weary, bored Santa—all set to music and dance routines (some of them show-stoppers) to produce a delectable holiday bonbon!
Using the sets, costumes and musical arrangements from the Broadway and Madison Square Garden productions, director Brandon Ivie has assembled a new cast to work its magic to delight adults and children alike. In the role of Ralphie, Colton Maurer is the perfect geek, but one who sings and dances magnificently. He may be small, but his stage presence fills the large Paper Mill Playhouse stage. His hoofing abilities are in full display in several dance numbers, most notably a Western-themed "Ralphie to the Rescue," wherein our pint-sized hero uses his new BB gun to save his classmates, teachers and friends from a variety of nefarious villains. (Judah Immanuel shares the role). Hudson Loverro, as his little brother Randy, exhibits great comedic timing; I dare you to watch him get into his one-piece snowsuit without splitting your sides laughing. He, too, sings and dances superbly, even appearing in several production numbers as part of the ensemble!
The adult actors display enough heft to avoid being upstaged by the pint-sized thespians. Ted Koch conveys the dry wit of Jean Shepherd in his role as our guide (and commentator) through the shenanigans onstage. His quiet presence is never intrusive, and one feels his wry affection for his alter-ego Ralphie. Chris Hoch (right) plays Old Man (Frank) Parker to the delicious hilt: his colorful cursing and spitting-mad demeanor (especially at being attacked by a neighbor's two hounds) are offset by a sentimental streak and a desire to be "The Genius of Cleveland Street." He's a hardworking, regular Joe who really wants to do right by his family.
Elena Shaddow plays his long-suffering spouse with stalwart stoicism; she is the quintessential 1940's mother, tending to household chores and taking good care of her children and husband. Her perky manner and lovely voice really resonate in her attempt to console her sons that all will be well with a ballad entitled "Just Like That." And as the stickler-for-maintaining-margins-when-writing fourth grade teacher, Miss Shields, Danette Holden is wound tighter than a clock, which makes her breakout performance featuring an energetic tap dance in a fantasy number set in a 1930's speakeasy to the song, "You'll Shoot Your Eyes Out"—the phrase Ralphie hears ad nauseum whenever he asks for an air rifle. (Note: How many of you readers heard those words from your parents? My mom used to say, "Everything's fine until someone loses an eye" when my brother and I were tussling on the floor!)
An ensemble of adults who play cowboys, gangsters and Christmas elves, along with a gaggle of adorable and talented kids, complete the large cast. All agilely execute Mara Newbery Greer's choreography to the accompaniment of the orchestra directed by BenWhiteley.
With a wicked book by Joseph Robinette and tuneful music and clever lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, A Christmas Story brings to life the holiday movie the whole world loves. It is a perfect gift of theater for grownups and children alike. The former will fondly recall their childhood Christmases (and Hanukkahs) while the latter will delight in the foibles and adventures of a nine-year-old boy on a quest for the perfect gift. This show almost beats a Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle—and no one risks losing an eye!
A Christmas Story will be performed eight times a week at the Paper Mill Playhouse, 22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, through January 3, 2016. For performance times and tickets, call the box office at 973.376.4343 or visit www.papermill.org online.
Paper Mill Playhouse will offer a special autism-friendly performance on Tuesday, December 29, at 1:30 PM.
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