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Tuesday, June 30, 2015

GUEST REVIEW: “CLOSURE” BY RICHARD DRESSER DEBUTS @ NJ REP IN LONG BRANCH

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Image result for michael t. mooneyReviewed by Michael T. Mooney June 28, 2015 at 7:00pm

New Jersey Repertory Company must be the proudest 'parent' in the theater world. When giving birth to each of their world premiere plays, they regale them with the greatest birthday party a playwright could imagine. Richard Dresser's CLOSURE, the 105th play of their remarkable 18 seasons, is no exception.

First, the party guests—a cast that Broadway might envy. To their recent list of world-class actors like Jill Eikenberry, Dan Lauria, Michael Tucker, and others, add Wendie Malick and Gary Cole. Their amazing contributions toward making CLOSURE a must-see summer show cannot be over-stated. Although currently known for their work on small-screen comedies (she on “Hot in Cleveland” and he on “Veep”), both do compelling work in this primarily dramatic stage play about parents whose teenage daughter has gone missing on a Dutch-run Caribbean island. Malick plays Jane, the teen's distressed mom, and Cole is Roy, the island's police detective. They are ably joined by Victor Verhaeghe as Peter, Jane's distant husband, and Biniam Tekola as Ken, the waiter selling something more than drinks. Cole anchors the play with a self-assured confidence, skillfully dealing with Jane's rum-soaked search for closure. Malick and Cole have a palpable chemistry that makes it clear that Dresser's narrative has some twists and turns in store. 

Then there's the party favors—an absolutely stunning physical production designed by Jessica Parks. The play's action requires several different locations and Parks skillfully gives us a tropical setting that takes full advantage of every inch of the theater's shoe box stage without ever looking cramped. Parks even manages to hint at a neo-noir vibe in Roy's office, outfitting it with a rotary fan, metal file cabinet, coffee maker, and old school black phone—all without looking dated. Jill Nagle's blue and green infused tropical lighting and Patricia E. Doherty's skillfully complementary costumes are equally impressive. Merek Royce Press supplies steel drum-based music to blend with the sounds of the surf. All of this is under the skilled and focused direction of Joe Cacaci. 

The much-expected twists in the plot will come as no shock to any viewer of “Cold Case.” With only four characters, the play's 90 intermissionless minutes provide plenty of time for pondering the possibilities. Dresser's script sometimes meanders and misfires, but Cole and Malick manage to make even the less compelling moments watchable. While considering the actual fate of Jane’s daughter, you can be forgiven for imagining a brand new prime time detective series starring Cole and Malick - a sort of island “Hart to Hart.” Like CLOSURE, it would be well worth watching. 

The world premiere engagement of CLOSURE by Richard Dresser continues at New Jersey Repertory Company, 179 Broadway, Long Branch, New Jersey, through July 19th. For tickets and information visit www.njrep.org or call 732-229-3166.

Photo: Victor Verhaerghe, Biniam Tekola, Wendie Malick and Gary Cole (by Suzanne Barabas)

Thanks to Rick Busciglio (www.njfootlights.net) for sharing this review.

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE: HOW MANY OF THESE BOOKS HAVE YOU READ? SOME SUGGESTIONS, TOO.

PACK A PICNIC FOR SUMMER PERFORMANCES @ THE VISUAL ARTS CENTER OF NJ IN SUMMIT

Shakespeare in the Garden

SHAKESPEARE IN THE GARDEN

Back by popular demand, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey will host Shakespeare in the Garden. This summer, the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Next State Ensemble will perform Romeo & Juliet and The Triumph of Love in the Art Center’s Garden. Each performance is an hour followed by a question and answer session with the cast.

WHERE: the garden of Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, 68 Elm Street, Summit
TICKETS: sold at the door on the night of the performance; non-members $12, members $8
For more information please visit us online at www.artcenternj.org/shakespeare or contact Cara Bramson, Director of Programs at (908) 273-9121 x213.

Romeo & Juliet
by William Shakespeare
WHEN: Thursday, July 9, 7:00 pm

The Triumph of Love
by Pierre de Marivaux
WHEN: Thursday, August 6, 7:00 pm

Cabaret: Music of the Movies
Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre

WHEN: Tuesday, July 23, 7:00 pm
WHERE: the garden of Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, 68 Elm Street, Summit
TICKETS:
To purchase tickets visit Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre’s ticketing site. $20 advance; $25 at the door. Art Center Members: $15, call 908.273.9121 or e-mail cbramson@artcenternj.org for the discount count code.

About the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey

For more than 80 years, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey has been exclusively dedicated to viewing, making and learning about contemporary art. Recognized as a leading non-profit arts organization, the Art Center’s renowned studio school, acclaimed exhibitions, and educational outreach initiatives serve thousands of youth, families, seniors and people with special needs every year.

SUMMER CLASSES FOR ADULTS, CHILDREN IN BEDMINSTER

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Summer Classes in Painting, Drawing & Ceramics for Adults
Summer Art Camps for Children

WHEN: various dates
WHERE:
2020 Burnt Mills Road in Bedminster, NJ.
For further information, please call (908) 234-2345 or visit The Center for Contemporary Art online at http://ccabedminster.org/

The Center for Contemporary Art is excited to announce its summer schedule of art classes and workshops for adults as well as summer art camps for children. There are ten summer evening classes and six weekend workshops for adults. Nine weeks of summer art camp will be available for children ages five through teens. Classes are offered for artists of all ages and levels of expertise in a variety of media including oil and acrylic paint, watercolor, drawing, photography and ceramics.

Adult Art ClassSpecial summer workshops such as “Portrait Painting in Oil,” a two-day workshop with Gary Godbee, provide unique opportunities for local artists to work from a live model as they explore the major forms of the head and individual features of the face. Another two-day workshop offered is “Watercolor Painting” with Steve Zazenzki. One-day workshops include “Animal Portraits” with Charlie Churchill, “Abstraction in Collage” with Nancy Shill, “Glass Mosaic” with Donna Conklin, and “Portrait Drawing” with Gary Godbee.

Summer Art Camps at CCAThe Center’s summer art camps are designed to stimulate creative expression through projects and activities that change each week. All sessions are led by professional teaching artists. Starting this year, full-day camps will be offered to allow children to experience both mixed media morning projects and themed programs in the afternoon. There will be a supervised lunch for full-day campers. Children interested in only coming for a morning session or afternoon session can register for half-day camps. An after-care program is also offered.

Parents from last year stated, “Camp was great! The kids learned a lot!"

For further information or to register for a class, please visit The Center for Contemporary Art online at www.ccabedminster.org or call (908) 234-2345.

About The Center for Contemporary Art
Founded in 1970, The Center for Contemporary Art is a vital regional art center with a vibrant studio art school, extensive exhibition program and important community outreach component. The Center for Contemporary Art is committed to enabling all visitors to experience its classes and workshops, exhibitions and public programs. If you require an accommodation or service, please contact The Center at least two weeks prior to your scheduled visit.

Monday, June 29, 2015

JODY JOSEPH TO APPEAR @ MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY JULY 11

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Jody Joseph stars in

4 Common Threads; One Heartstring

WHEN: July 11, doors at 6:30PM
WHERE:
The Pollak Theater at Monmouth University, Howard Ave, West Long Branch
TICKETS: $20-$45
Tickets on sale at the box office: 732.263.6889, prompt 1. http://www.monmouth.edu/university/box-office-information.aspx

In an intimate setting, Jody Joseph reveals her feelings about life and love through the powerful songs of four legendary artists. While unveiling the musical DNA that threads through the heart and soul of Jody Joseph, and the artists who influenced her life: Joni Mitchell, Bette Midler, Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks, she sings and talks about the common thread that weaved its way thru her own musical life and also shows the parallels in her own songwriting. This particular show, where Jody is performing as herself, is up front and personal, riveting, witty and real.

Vintage performances, as well as a glimpse of her pilot, Heart Strings, which is Jody’s personal mission, will show the journeys of her young vocal students and the healing power of music.

A portion of the proceeds will be used to fund a musical enhancement program run by The Mental Health Association of Monmouth County (MHA). The Heartstrings program provides a holistic component to the Family Crisis Intervention Unit for at-risk youth, to help their young clients foster creativity, alleviate stress, and reach their personal goals.

Sunday, June 28, 2015

PRINCETON SUMMER THEATER CONTINUES WITH THE RAZOR-SHARP “PYGMALION”

Pyg2PYGMALION
By George Bernard Shaw
Staged and Directed by Princeton lecturer in Theater and English R. N. Sandberg

WHEN: July 3-5, 8-12, and 16-19. Thursday-Saturday at 8pm, Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Wednesday, July 8th at 8pm. Special talkbacks with the cast follow every Friday evening performance: join us on July 4th after the 2pm matinee for a reception with hoagies by Hoagie Haven!
WHERE:
Hamilton Murray Theater on Princeton University’s Campus
TICKETS: $27.50 for general admission, $22 for students and matinees. We also offer season subscriptions for only $60 (a 30% discount!), which ensures a reserved seat for each of our three remaining main stage shows this season. To order tickets, visit http://www.princetonsummertheater.org/metamorphoses/ or call the PST box office at 1-732-997-0205.

Pygmalion is a sharply funny commentary on class, gender and what it means to be true to yourself.

Pyg3This vibrant and hilarious new production highlights the battle of wits and wills between Henry Higgins and Eliza Doolittle. Speech professor Henry Higgins makes a bet that he can transform cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle from a low-class nobody to the toast of society at an upcoming garden party. He soon realizes, however, that this feat might not be so easily accomplished; Eliza has strong opinions of her own, and she is prepared to fight Henry every step of the way on her transformation from street urchin to sophisticated duchess. The inspiration for the musical My Fair Lady, the story of Pygmalion has captivated audiences for decades. 

Starring guest artist Jake Robertson as Henry Higgins and Princeton Summer Theater company member Bits Sola as Eliza Doolittle (top image). Also featuring Ross Barron (Pickering), Maeve Brady (Mrs. Higgins), Sarah Cuneo (Mrs. Eynsford Hill) Caroline Hertz (Mrs. Pearce/Miss Eynsford Hill), Kanoa Mulling (Freddy Eynsford Hill), and Evan Thompson (Mr. Doolittle).

PRINCETON SUMMER THEATER’S ANNUAL CHILDREN'S PROGRAMMING

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Each year, Princeton Summer Theater produces extremely affordable family entertainment and educational programming. This programming includes a series of Young Artists' Workshops and an interactive, musical Children's Show.

The Legendary True Story of Sparrow Jones and the Jersey Devil
a new play for young audiences by Brad Wilson and Maeli Goren, director of The Magic Rainforest

WHEN: 11am on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from July 2-August 8
WHERE:
the Lewis Center for the Arts, Princeton Summer Theater in the Hamilton Murray Theater on Princeton University’s campus
TICKETS: $10, free for children under 3
Discounted group rates and parties are also available: call 1-732-997-0205 or email contact@princetonsummertheater.org for more information.

They say there's a monster out in the Pine Barrens, but when Sparrow Jones gets lost in the woods, she won't let the legend of the Jersey Devil scare her!  Sure to engage audience members of all ages, The Legendary True Story of Sparrow Jones and the Jersey Devil is a musical, magical, and interactive journey through New Jersey folklore. Have you seen the Jersey Devil?

The show will run for approximately 30-45 minutes. After each performance, actors come out to meet with children, sign their programs, and talk about the characters and the play.

YOUNG ARTISTS’ WORKSHOPS

In addition, Princeton Summer Theater will be hosting a series of six Young Artists’ Workshops for children ages 6-12. Come learn and play alongside the 2015 PST Company!  Over the course of 6 weeks, we will explore some of the fundamentals of theater and work together to create our very own show, which we'll perform for family and friends at our last session together.  Come to one or come to all—we always welcome drop-ins!

This year’s workshops are:

  • Puppets and Masks—create fun characters using the transformative power of time-tested theatrical traditions
  • Movement and Physical Theater—learn how to use your body to create characters, express emotions, and make stage pictures
  • Making Music as an Ensemble— learn how to make to music with a group of friends in order to tell a story
  • Improv—who says you need a script to do theater? Learn the art of making it up
  • Playwriting—there are lots of ways to tell stories, and our playwriting lab will let you experiment and hone your skills
  • Fundamentals of Acting, Script to Stage—take the page to the stage and learn how to act out stories from scripts!

WHEN:  Friday afternoons from 1:30-4:30pm, July 3-August 7.
TUITION: Each workshop costs $35 to register—save 20% by registering for all six workshops for $145! Ages 6-12.
Register by emailing princetonsummertheater@gmail.com.

MORRIS MUSEUM EXHIBITS HIGHLIGHTS ROLE OF NJ IN EARLY MUSIC INDUSTRY

ReginaphoneMUSICALLY, MADE IN NEW JERSEY

WHEN: now through October 18, 2015
WHERE:
Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown

Beginning this June, the Morris Museum will present a new exhibition that explores the prominent role played by New Jersey manufacturers in the early music industry, featuring more than a dozen mechanical musical instruments and other related objects.

By 1885, New Jersey was the musical box manufacturing center for the United States, if not the western world. There were no less than six manufacturing companies located in Rahway, Jersey City, Bradley Beach and Hoboken. These companies employed hundreds of workers and produced several hundred thousand instruments. The mechanical musical instruments manufactured in New Jersey introduced new audio technology to the masses. (Image: Reginaphone, Style 171, 1908, Regina Music Box Company, Rahway, NJ. Image courtesy of Morris Museum, Morristown, New Jersey)

Musically, Made in New Jersey includes a 1908 Reginaphone by the Rahway based Regina Music Box Company. This hybrid machine plays both punched metal discs and 78rpm records. The exhibition also features a Capital “cuff” Music Box by F. G. Otto and Sons of Jersey City. This unique instrument includes perforated metal cones on a rotating mandrel. Also represented are mechanical musical instruments manufactured by the Aeolian Company of Garwood, the Symphonion Manufacturing Company of Bradley Beach, the American Music Box Company of West New York and Hoboken, and others.

The Morris Museum, through this exhibit, will be the first institution to ever shine a spotlight on the mechanical music industry that made New Jersey it’s “home” during the very late 1800’s and into the early twentieth century.” Said Jeremie Ryder, Conservator of the Guinness Collection. “Virtually nowhere else in the United States was such a tremendous pool of talented engineers, machinists, musicians and craftsmen, who together with the entrepreneurial spirit, supplied the masses with music from around the world.”

Musically, Made in New Jersey features instruments selected from the Museum’s Murtogh D. Guinness Collection of Mechanical Musical Instruments and Automata, one of the most significant collections of its kind in the world. The exhibition also includes objects lent by the Museum of Music Box Society International, Altenburg Piano House, and other private collections.

In conjunction with Musically, Made in New Jersey the Morris Museum will hold the following program. Further program and ticket information is available by calling 973.971.3706 or online at morrismuseum.org.

Capital Music BoxGuinness Spotlight: New Jersey Music Makers
WHEN: Thursday, July 16, 6:30pm
TICKETS:
$7 Members/$9 Non-Members.

The Guinness Collection staff invites you to explore the New Jersey mechanical music industry, and enjoy a curator’s tour of the featured exhibit, Musically, Made in New Jersey.
(Image: Capital Music Box, Style C, c1895-97, F.G. Otto & Sons, Jersey City, NJ. Image courtesy of Morris Museum, Morristown, New Jersey.)

About the Murtogh D. Guinness Collection
In 2003, the Morris Museum was awarded the Murtogh D. Guinness Collection of 750 historic mechanical musical instruments and automata (mechanical figures) and more than 5,000 programmed media, ranging from player piano rolls to pinned cylinders. Highlights of the collection are displayed in a spectacular 4,300 square foot permanent exhibition Musical Machines & Living Dolls: Mechanical Musical Instruments and Automata from the Murtogh D. Guinness Collection. This interactive exhibition features more than 150 pieces from this extraordinary collection and takes visitors on a journey through the history of on-demand musical entertainment. Viewable storage provides visitors with broader access to the balance of the collection.

About the Morris Museum
Founded in 1913, the Morris Museum is an award-winning, community-based arts and cultural institution which serves the public through high caliber exhibitions in the arts, sciences and humanities.  The Museum also offers educational programs, family events, and is home to the Bickford Theatre and its wide range of performing arts offerings. Continuously serving the public since 1913, the Morris Museum has been designated a Major Arts Institution and has received the New Jersey State Council on the Arts’ Citation of Excellence, among other awards. The first museum in New Jersey to be accredited, the Morris Museum was re-accredited in 2013 by the American Alliance of Museums. 

The Morris Museum is a Blue Star Museum, offering free admission to active duty military personnel and their families, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Location & Hours
The Museum is located at 6 Normandy Heights Road (at the corner of Columbia Turnpike) in Morristown, NJ, and is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 11:00am to 5:00pm and Sunday, 12:00 to 5:00pm. In addition, the Museum is open evenings from 5:00 to 8:00pm on the second and third Thursday of the month. Admission to the Museum is $10 for adults and $7 for children, students and senior citizens. Admission is always free for Museum members.  For more information, call (973) 971-3700, or visit www.morrismuseum.org.

SUBMIT YOUR FILMS TO THE RAHWAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL BY JULY 1!

WNYC radio touted Rahway as a hopping, upcoming place for the arts! Check out this event:

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CALLING ALL FILMMAKERS: FILM SUBMISSIONS WANTED

Submit your film today! The Rahway International Film Festival is now accepting short films (5-45 minutes) and feature films (46 minutes or more) until Wednesday, July 1st.

This year's Third Annual Film Festival will take place at Union County Performing Arts Center's Hamilton Stage Friday, August 28 through Sunday, August 30, 2015.

For more information/details, visit http://www.rahwayfilmfest.com or email rahwayfilmfest@gmail.com with subject "Submission Inquiry."

AUDITIONS FOR “LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS” IN CLIFTON ON MONDAY, JUNE 29

 

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

WHEN: June 29, 7-10pm
WHERE: Clifton Arts Center, City Hall complex at 900 Clifton Avenue on Well Road. Click here for a map and directions

Auditions for our Fall musical production of Little Shop of Horrors are coming up!  Directed by Bill Kaufman, Musical Director is Jalmari Vanamo, Technical Director is Kyle Parkin, Producer is Maryann Irizarry, Stage Manager is Tara Freifeld. Seeking males and females ages 18 years and older.

Auditions will be from sides provided at the auditions. Please bring a prepared song with accompaniment (CD, IPOD, MP3 or sheet music). Songs from the show are permitted.

Show dates are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays November 6,7,8 and 13,14,15. All shows are in the Theresa Aprea Theater at The Learning Center, 199 Scoles Ave, Clifton NJ.

For questions please call 973-928-7668 or email theaterleagueofclifton@gmail.com.

Roles include:

  • Seymour – Mid-twenties and perhaps balding a little. Our insecure, naïve, put-upon, florist’s clerk hero. Above all, he’s a sweet and well-meaning little man. Age 20-35.
  • Audrey – the bleached-blonde, secret love of Seymour’s life. If you took Judy Holiday, Carol Channing, Marilyn Monroe and Goldie Hawn, removed their education and feelings of self-worth, dressed them in spiked heels and a low-cut black dress – that’d be Audrey. Age 20-35
  • Mr. Mushnik – Their sweaty boss. A failure of an East Side florist. His accent, if he has one, Is more that of middle class New York than of Eastern Europe. Age 40+
  • Orin – A tall, dark, handsome dentist with a black leather jacket and sadistic tendencies. He is not a leftover from the move version of Grease. Think instead of an egotistical pretty-boy or an insurance salesman and talking like a radio announcer. Age 30+
  • The Plant (Audrey II) – An anthropomorphic cross between a Venus flytrap and an avocado. It has a huge, nasty- looking pod which gains a shark-like aspect when open and snapping at food. The creature is played by a series of four increasing large puppets, manipulated by one puppeteer. (Who also plays Wino #1 in the first scene) The first time we see the Plant, it is less than one foot tall. The last time we see it, it fills the entire stage.
  • Voice of the Plant – Provided by an actor on an offstage microphone. The sound is a cross between Otis Redding, Barry White and Wolfman Jack. Think of the Voice as that of a street-smart, funky, conniving villain-with Rhythm and Blues. Age 18+
  • Crystal, Ronnette and Chiffon – Three black female street urchins who function as participants in the action and a Greek Chorus outside it. They’re young, hip, smart and the only people in the whole cast who really know what’s going on. They occasionally sing to the audience directly. And when they do, it’s often with a “secret smile” that says: “we know something you don’t know”. Age 18-30
  • Chorus Ensemble – A small ensemble of singers to create background and fill to the musical numbers. Ages 18+

WAIT LIST AVAILABLE FOR TOM PAXTON CONCERT ON JULY 25

A Concert to Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of The Minstrel Acoustic Concert Series

40th Anniversary ConcertTom Paxton

WHEN: Saturday, July 25, at 7:30 pm
WHERE: Presbyterian Church of Chatham Township, 240 Southern Boulevard, Chatham (Note that in order to accommodate a larger audience, the concert will be held at the site of the Sanctuary Concerts Series and not at The Minstrel's usual location.)
TICKETS: $30.00 per person. 
The concert is already sold out, but a waiting list is available on the Folk Project website:  www.folkproject.org
For further information, visit the website or call 973-335-9489. 

Tom Paxton, folk icon, iconoclast and legendary singer-songwriter, will present a concert celebrating the 40th Anniversary of The Minstrel Acoustic Concert Series.

Tom Paxton came to Greenwich Village in the early 60s, joining Bob Dylan, Dave Van Ronk, Joan Baez and a host of other singer-songwriters caught up in the Folk Revival.  Meanwhile, young people growing up in the Morris County area picked up guitars, started singing together and, in 1975, 20 young hippies began a weekly series of folk concerts in the basement of a French Restaurant in Chester, NJ. Since those days, the venue has changed both location and name several times but on July 25, The Folk Project (now some 600 members strong) celebrates an unbroken run of exactly 40 years of producing quality acoustic music concerts almost every Friday evening—The Minstrel Acoustic Concert Series. 

The music of Tom Paxton has been part of the music celebrated by The Minstrel throughout these past 40 years.  Holly Near said, “Every folk singer I know has either sung a Tom Paxton song, is singing a Tom Paxton song, or will soon sing a Tom Paxton song.  Now either all the folk singers are wrong, or Tom Paxton is one hell of a songwriter.”

Tom has recorded over 62 albums. His latest, Redemption Road, was released this past March. He has announced a two-month concert tour with Janis Ian, and then, at age 77, plans to retire from the road.  On March 14, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. Tom received a 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award at the 51st annual Grammy Awards. He was also nominated for Grammys in 2007 for Comedians and Angels, in 2006 for Live in the U.K., in 2003 for Looking for the Moon and in 2002 for the children's album Your Shoes, My Shoes. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from ASCAP and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the BBC in London.

During this 40th anniversary year, Morris Arts (www.morrisarts.org) presented The Folk Project with its 2015 Outstanding Arts Organization award, and Morristown Mayor Timothy P. Dougherty proclaimed April 2015 to be The Folk Project Month in Morristown.  

The Minstrel and The Folk Project wish to thank the Sanctuary Concerts Series for their support and assistance in producing and promoting this concert.

The Folk Project is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation whose mission is to present high caliber folk music performances and instructional workshops for the public and members; to encourage development of musicianship and performance skills in the northern New Jersey area; and to provide interesting social and learning activities relating to traditional and participatory folk music and dance.

The Folk Project:  www.folkproject.org or 973-335-9489

LONJ SEEKS BOY SOPRANO FOR HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES OF “AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS”

AUDITION NOTICE:

Light Opera of New Jersey seeks boy soprano to sing the title role in Amahl and the Night Visitors for their December 2015 production.

Additionally those seeking ensemble, secondary roles and understudy opportunities for upcoming shows should audition.  They include:

  • The True Story of Cinderella (Warren Martin of Westminster Choir College) October 2015
  • Trial by Jury (Gilbert and Sullivan) October 2015
  • Amahl and the Night Visitors (Menotti) December 2015
  • The Elixir of Love (Donizetti) proposed March 2016
  • The Merry Widow (Franz Lehar) proposed May 2016

The role of Amahl is to be performed by a boy soprano only; girls will not be considered.

Performance dates are on December 4th and 5th in Basking Ridge NJ.  

Singers of all ages as described above will be heard BY APPOINTMENT only.   

Mail headshot, resume, and availability for audition on August 5th between 7 PM-10 PM to LightOperaNJ@optonline.net.  

There will be no audition fee at this audition.   

LONJ seeks primarily New Jersey based singers.   

WHERE: St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 140 South Finley Ave, Basking Ridge NJ 07920

BOZ SCAGGS DEBUTS NEW ALBUM @ MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER IN MORRISTOWN

Scaggs_pressBOZ SCAGGS

WHEN: Wednesday, July 29, at 8 pm
WHERE:
Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown
TICKETS: $49-$99
box office (973) 539-8008 
online: www.mayoarts.org

Boz Scaggs performs his hits and music from his new release, A Fool to Care. Another spellbinding album in a prolific career, A Fool to Care boasts Scaggs' pioneering blend of rock, soul, jazz and R&B taken to new heights. A Fool To Care showcases the patchwork of influences and innovations that make up a Boz Scaggs album.and sees Scaggs letting loose and having some fun. You can hear that sense of fun, as well as his ability and willingness to wander in any musical direction throughout these twelve tracks. The inspirational heart of the album lies in the sounds of Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma that played such a vital role in shaping Scaggs' musical sensibility, but they venture forth boldly from there.

Raised in Texas with an abiding respect for a wide spectrum of American roots music, William Royce "Boz" Scaggs began a long and storied career in 1965 with the release of his first solo recording Boz. After cutting his teeth playing with Steve Miller and honing his rock and R&B chops with the likes of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section and Duane Allman, Scaggs achieved multi-platinum success with Silk Degrees in 1976. Among his hits are "Lowdown," "Lido Shuffle" and "What Can I Say." He has continued on a lauded and multi-genre musical journey to the present day. With a trademark voice, a rich catalogue and many accolades, Scaggs continues to establish himself as one of music's most creative and original artists.

Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2015-2016 season is made possible, in part, by a grant the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, F.M. Kirby Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals. The Mayo Performing Arts Center has been designated a Major Presenting Organization by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

REGISTER YOUR BUDDING ACTOR FOR DREAMCATCHER REP’S SUMMER THEATRE CAMP

Registration open for the theatre camp!

Dreamcatcher's Summer Theatre Conservatory is a four- week theatre camp for young actors aged 10-17 that offers both classes and performance opportunities.

At the STC, we believe in having fun while developing real skills under the guidance of theatre professionals. Emphasis is placed on individual attention, constructive feedback, and the achievement of personal goals.
Participants can tailor the program to suit their preferences, attending the conservatory for one week, two weeks, three weeks or for the entire month of classes.

Read more.

Week 1: ACTORS' WORKSHOP
WHEN: July 6-10, Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm

Week 2: MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP
WHEN: July 13-17, Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm

Weeks 3 & 4: DREAMCATCHER JUNIOR

  • Create & Perform a Show
    WHEN: July 20-31, Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm

FINAL PERFORMANCE: Fri., July 31, 7:30pm

WHERE: Oakes Center 120 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ.

Register your child now

For more information visit us online at DreamcatcherRep.org
email us at info@dreamcatcherrep.org or call us at 908.514.9654

Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre
Oakes Center  *  120 Morris Avenue  *  Summit, NJ 07901
Tickets: 800.838.3006 | Info: 908.514.9654
www.dreamcatcherrep.org

Join Our Mailing List!

Friday, June 26, 2015

WELSH BAND TO APPEAR FOR 1ST TIME IN U.S. IN MORRISTOWN!

THE FOLK PROJECT PRESENTS

018 CalanWelsh Band CALAN

The Folk Project is proud to present Welsh band, Calan, on its first ever tour of the U.S.!

WHEN: Friday evening, July 3, at 8:00 PM
WHERE:  Morristown Unitarian Fellowship,  21 Normandy Heights Road in Morristown
TICKETS: Tickets can be purchased on-line at www.FolkProject.org or at The Minstrel any Friday evening (cash/check only). For more information: concerts@folkproject.org or 908.229.1214.

Calan brings together the remarkable talents of five young musicians, giving a fresh and vibrant sound to traditional Welsh music. With a contemporary and lively approach, they breathe new life into the old traditions through their sparkling melodies, foot tapping tunes and spirited and energetic performances of Welsh step dancing.

They blast their way through some of the old favorite reels, jigs and hornpipes with fast paced and uplifting arrangements before melting into some of the most beautiful and haunting songs.

The group, who’ve raised some eyebrows with a deliberate policy of eye-catching clothes and presentation, despite the ancient roots of their music, sees itself as a new generation of ambassadors. They strive to take their sound to new audiences and raise the profile of Welsh traditional music to an international level.

With their unique instrumental blend of accordion, fiddle, guitar, Welsh pipes, Welsh harp and the percussive sound of the Welsh clogs, Calan has certainly found its musical niche and plans to continue to delight audiences far and wide!

Calan: http://www.calan-band.com/
Robyn Boyd robyn@woodenshipproductions.com

The Folk Project is a non-profit 501C Corporation whose mission is to present high caliber folk music performances, dances and instructional workshops for the public and members; to encourage development of musicianship, performance, and dance skills in the Northern New Jersey area and provide interesting social and learning activities relating to traditional and participatory folk music and dance.

REVIEW: “LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST” SPARKLES @ STNJ OUTDOOR VENUE

By Ruth Ross

Exactly 11 years ago today, I reviewed the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's production of Love's Labour's Lost, performed on their main stage. At that time, I praised their efforts, calling the performance " effervescent" and "polished"—adjectives that would apply equally as well to the current production of this, one of the least performed of the Bard's romantic comedies, now raising mayhem and laughter on the outdoor stage at the College of St. Elizabeth in Convent Station (Morris Township).

Director Brian Crowe's decision to bring the action en plein air emphasizes the magical, mystical aspect of this rather goofy love story. Once again, Shakespeare reaches into his bag of theatrical tricks—sparring lovers, bumbling rustics who massacre the English language, misdelivered letters, eaves dropping and great fun at the expense of a pompous pedant—to concoct an absurdly comedic soup, seasoned with a dash of sex and leavened with some nifty verbal calisthenics.

STNJ_LovesLabours_1631The opening scene, wherein King Ferdinand of Navarre declares that the young men of his court must forswear women and other worldly temptations for the next three years and devote themselves to academic pursuits, sets into motion the sexual politics that eventually make these oaths null and void. Trouble on the romantic front arrives with the appearance of the Princess of France, sent on a diplomatic mission by her father, and her bevy of lovely ladies. When the men visit the ladies in a field outside the court, their foolish “ivory tower” ideals unravel, and the men fall hopelessly in love. And when the ladies find out about the King’s “rules,” they decide to have some fun at the men’s expense. The result: hilarity. [Image: The King of Navarre (Jonathan Raviv, front, center) reads a letter to the men of his court—(L-R) Berowne (Ben Jacoby), Longaville (Aaron McDaniel), and Dumain (Austin Ku) —announcing the arrival of the Princess of France (Jesmille Darbouze, not pictured). Photo © Jerry Dalia, The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey]

STNJ_LovesLabours_5028To be sure, the courtiers, led by Jonathan Raviv (right) as the King of Navarre, are a hunky bunch. Raviv's regal air crumbles to mush at the sign of the luscious Princess of France, played by Jesmille Darbouze (left) as a wise young woman, fit to be a diplomatic emissary, yet quick-witted enough to size up a ludicrous situation and take the bull by the horns. It doesn't hurt that Darbouze and Raviv exhibit romantic chemistry from the minute they first lay eyes on each other. Clark Scott Carmichael has a grand time as her attending lord, happy to cause trouble at everyone's expense.

The other set of lovers, Rosaline and Berowne, are reminiscent of Beatrice and Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing, what with their verbal jousting and longing looks stolen when the other is not looking. Susan Maris glows whenever she is on stage while Ben Jacoby's expression of doubt prior to signing the King's oath make him deliciously ripe for the takedown.

STNJ_LovesLabours_2287But what would a Shakespearean comedy be without some rubes, a pompous ass and a couple of other clowns? Love's Labour's Lost doesn't disappoint in this area. Connor Carew is hilarious as Costard, murderer of the English language, master of physical comedy and the quintessential smart-mouthed servant. On the aristocratic side, Jeffrey M. Bender (right), who has assumed the role formerly held by James Michael Riley as the comic of the company, is side-splitting as the Spanish grandee Don Armado, replete with Spanish accent, rampant braggadocio, some outrageous business with his foot and a writer of completely incomprehensible verses to the lowly maid (a pert Rebecca Gomberg) who has captured his heart. And Shakespeare has great fun puncturing the pretensions of the bloviating schoolmaster Holofernes, played with great flair and asininity by Bruce Comer (above, right), aided and abetted by his doltish curate Nathaniel, played by Joseph Hamel. Their attempts to honor the heroes of world history in a play of their own devising (shades of A Midsummer Night's Dream) amuses the nobles and gives the audience a reason to laugh heartily.

STNJ_LovesLabours_2324The setting, a park in the royal environs of the King of Navarre, is a mixture of shades of green fashioned into a harlequin pattern; Charlie Calvert's design emphasizes the bucolic nature of the play. Nikki Delhomme's costumes are a blend of colorful, luxurious fabrics ; a nice sartorial touch is having the lords' shoes match the color of their waistcoats. That the ladies' dresses did too made it easier to discern the couples more easily. [(L-R): Maria (Carrie Walsh), the Princess of France (Jesmille Darbouze), and Katherine (Kristen Kittel) look on as Rosaline (Susan Maris) shows off her gift sent by the men. Photo © Jerry Dalia, The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey]

Unlike Shakespeare's other comedies, Love's Labour's Lost doesn't end with a wedding. Instead, the death of the King of France causes his daughter to postpone the multiple nuptials for a mourning period of 12 months and a day. Rosaline's conditions for Berowne are especially delicious: She charges him with working in a hospital for a year to make the sick laugh. Obviously, the path to true love for these young folks will not be smooth. To ensure that theirs is a lasting love—and not an infatuation—is going to take some labor, and that advice is timeless!

Love's Labour's Lost will be performed at the Greek Amphitheater on the campus of the College of St. Elizabeth in Convent Station through July 26th. Performances begin at 8 PM. Bring a picnic and a lawn chair. For information and tickets, call the box office at 973.408.5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org online.

Thursday, June 25, 2015

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME WITH REVOLUTIONARY TIMES WALKING TOURS THIS SUMMER!

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The Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB) welcomes you to join us again for our perennial walking tour series.  Experience the rich history Morris County has to offer with a knowledgeable guide. 

WHEN: Summer tours are offered on various Saturday mornings during July and August. All tours begin at 10:00 a.m. and last between 60 and 90 minutes.
TICKETS: $15 - $20 depending upon the program length.
Please pre-register and pre-pay online at www.morristourism.org.
For additional information call 973.631.5151.

Spring_HWT_mini_posterThe Morristown Green Turns 300

The historic Morristown Green began appearing on maps of the area beginning in 1715, 300 years ago. Considered Morristown’s “jewel”, the Green has been at the center of life in Morristown since its founding and throughout its history. Learn about the activities that have taken place on the Green, the landscape’s features and its 2007 renovation.

WHEN: Saturday, July 18 at 10 AM.
WHERE: Meet in the center of the Green at the stone bench. Tour size is limited to 30. Metered parking available on streets around the Green and in downtown parking garages.
COST: $15.00. This tour will be given once this year.

Historic Speedwell Gets a Makeover (New!)

Visit Historic Speedwell, one of Morris County’s four national landmarks. A custom tour of the Vail Homestead will be given. A member of the staff will tour the group throughout the “mansion” to parts that are never seen by the public. On display will be the historic preservation plans and a 3D model of how the home, built in the early 1800s, will be restored for the 21st century.

WHEN: Saturday, July 25 at 10 AM
WHERE: Meet at the Historic Speedwell Visitors Center, 333 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown. Tour size is limited to 25. Free parking available at Historic Speedwell. Expect a five minute walk to the Visitor Center.
COST: $20.00.

The tour price includes free admission to the site for the day. This tour will be given once this year.

Researching Local History and the Morris Township at 275 Exhibit (New!)

Morris Township was founded in 1740 and celebrates a special milestone this year. An exhibit at the library features highlights from its history, its significant institutions and residents. After the exhibit, library staff will introduce you to the North Jersey History and Genealogy Center, the archive used to create the exhibit. There will also be a behind-the-scenes tour of the archives where you’ll learn about the resources available to the public: electronic genealogy websites, books, maps, photos, family files and more.

WHEN: Saturday, August 1 at 10 AM
WHERE: Meet at the library, 1 Miller Road at South Street, Morristown. Group size is limited to 40. Metered on-street parking is available, and the library has a free parking lot.
COST: $15.00. This tour will be given once this year.

Morristown’s Sacred Spaces: The Church Architecture Tour

Morristown is “a town of towers and spires”, home to churches with a variety of unique architectural features.  Join us as we visit the exteriors of the First Baptist Church, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, The Church of the Assumption, The Presbyterian Church of Morristown, the Church of the Redeemer, and the United Methodist Church.  Some of the churches will be open so that the interiors can be viewed. 

WHEN: Saturday, August 8 at 10 AM
WHERE: Meet at the Tourism Bureau office located at 6 Court Street, Morristown. Tour size is limited to 30. Metered and free parking is available on and near Court Street and in downtown parking garages.
COST: $15.00.

Morristown National Historical Park’s Curator’s Tour (New!)

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for members of the public to explore the treasures of the National Park’s archives which span the years 15,000 B.C. to the 20th century and include 500,000 objects. A behind-the-ropes, curator-led tour of the archives has been created with a twist. If a tour participant has a particular interest, and lets the Tourism Bureau know it by August 8, the curator will comb the archives to see if there’s something relevant which will be shown on August 15th to the group.

WHEN: Saturday, August 15 at 10 AM
WHERE: Morristown National Historical Park, 30 Washington Place, Morristown. Meet in the foyer of the museum building. Tour size is limited to 30.
COST: $20.00 includes admission to the park for the day. Free parking is available in two parking lots adjacent to the Washington’s Headquarters Museum. This tour will be given once this year.

The Summer 2015 historical walking tours from the Morris County Tourism Bureau are being generously sponsored by Robert Lloyd Coutts and Sons, Insurors and by Century 21 Department Stores.

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The Morris County Tourism Bureau is a Destination Marketing Organization that positively affects the economy of Morris County by promoting the area’s exceptional historic, cultural and recreational opportunities by providing services to residents, business travelers and tourists

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

AUDITIONS: STUDIO PLAYERS TO HOLD AUDITIONS FOR MURDER MYSTERY

AUDITION NOTICE:

Murder FinalREHEARSAL FOR MURDER 

Studio Players of Upper Montclair, NJ is casting Rehearsal for Murder, a suspense-filled play-within-a-play murder mystery, adapted by D.D. Brooke from the teleplay by Richard Levinson and William Link, and directed by Janet Sales. 

WHEN:  Tues, June 30 and Thurs, July 2 at 7:30 PM
WHERE:
Studio Playhouse, 14 Alvin Place · Upper Montclair
Performances October 23- November 7, rehearsals to start closer to the fall

When his movie star leading lady (and fiancée) Monica Welles is found dead from an apparent suicide after the opening night of her Broadway stage debut, playwright Alex Dennison is left heartbroken.  On the first anniversary of her death, he gathers the cast and crew from that ill-fated night in the same Broadway theater, ostensibly to read a new play he is working on, a mystery in which a famous actress is killed.  However, the scenes seem to be uncomfortably close to actual encounters they all might have had with Monica.  Alex finally reveals that he believes that Monica was murdered, and that someone at the theater is her killer.  What follows is a clever game, where no one and nothing are who and what they seem. 

An exhilarating mystery by the writers of “Murder She Wrote” and “Columbo.”  

ROLES OPEN:

  • Alex Dennison – (30-50) a Broadway playwright. Attractive, intelligent, forceful, charming, witty and sophisticated.  He seeks to prove the murder of his fiancée, whose death was a ruled a suicide. The success of the show depends on his ability to control the action, foresee every variable and to anticipate the reaction of every character. Must be able to express the full range of emotions as well: being in love, grief, vengeance, desperation, etc.
  • Monica Welles (30-40) – a movie star who seeks to legitimize her acting career by starring in a Broadway play.  She falls in love with the playwright and then, seemingly jumps to her death on opening night. Must be able to express the full range of emotions: being in love, fear, desperation, disdain, etc. Also, because she only appears in flashback scenes, must be able to exude an ethereal quality.
  • Sally Bean – (20s) Alex’s assistant: young, optimistic, idealistic, recently-graduated, and in the Big Apple for the first time.  Seems very innocent amongst the sophisticated theatre people.
  • Bella Lamb – (40+) a Broadway producer; Alex’s friend. Successful, confident, no-nonsense.
  • Karen Daniels – (30s) an actress. At the play’s beginning she seems sweet, but later shows herself to be ambitious and conniving.
  • Leo Gibbs – (30s) an actor/comedian. Awkward, & obnoxious, especially around Karen, his ex.
  • David Mathews – (30s) a “serious” actor who is not quite as talented or as good-looking as he thinks he is.  VERY full of himself.
  • Lloyd Andrews – (40s) a director, although not quite Broadway-caliber. A brisk, capable manner.Frank Heller (40-50) - an out of work actor impersonating an officer, with a dark secret.

These roles will most likely be doubled up:

  • Ernie, (40+) the theater janitor
  • Stage manager (male or female, any age) Efficient, no-nonsense
  • Police officer (male, any age)
  • Second police officer assisting the police officer (any age - male or female)
  • Mr. Santoro, (any age) a furniture mover. Typical Noo Yawkah. Accent not required, but would be a plus.
  • The real Lieutenant McElroy (list in playbill as “Second Man in the Auditorium” (50s)

No monologues required.  Sides from the script will be provided and are available prior to auditions online at www.StudioPlayhouse.org

For more information visit the Studio Playhouse website or call 973.744.9752

No Pay, No Fee

MORRIS CHORAL SOCIETY CONCLUDES SEASON WITH A SALUTE TO AMERICAN PATRIOTIC MUSIC

R. Wayne Walters conducting courtesy of Morris Choral SocietySTAR SPANGLED SPECTACULAR

WHEN:  Saturday, June 27, at 8:00 PM
WHERE:
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 50 South Park Place on the Green in Morristown
TICKETS: $15.00 for students 18 and under, $20.00 for seniors and $25.00 for General Admission.
For more information or to order tickets, call 973-998-7239 or visit www.morrischoralsociety.org.

The 65-voice Morris Choral Society concludes their 43rd season on with “Star Spangled Spectacular,” a celebration of great American patriotic music. The concert will include works by Irving Berlin, Randall Thompson and Joyce Kilmer. 

In celebration of the conclusion of the yearlong 350th birthday party of the state, the Morris Choral Society’s men’s chamber group, Express Male, will be featured along with guest speaker Suzanne Key Boyle Hermann, a descendant of Francis Scott Key, the composer of our National Anthem which celebrated its 200th Anniversary in 2014.  The members Express Male are John Collins of Raritan, Bud Leppard of Morristown, Chip Wood of Basking Ridge, Albert Perkins of Morris Plains, Wayne Walters of Parsippany who founded MCS forty-two years ago and is still its resident conductor, and Rob Walters of Long Valley.  Ken Rapp of Morristown is the accompanist for the group and the chorus.

The Chorus will perform Peter Wilhousky’s famous version of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” William Billing’s “Chester,” Randall Thompson’s “Frostiana” and passages from “Testament to Freedom,” Irving Berlin’s “Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor,” Joyce Kilmer’s “Trees,” and the premiere of “Our Lady of the Harbor” by Betsy Bramhall and Audrey Schultz.  

(Image: Artistic Director Wayne Walters of Parsippany will conduct the Morris Choral Society. Photo courtesy of Morris Choral Society)

THEATER PROJECT DEBUT TO GET OFF-BROADWAY PRODUCTION NEXT SPRING: A GREAT REASON TO SUPPORT LOCAL THEATER!

Joe Vitale's Play MURROW Gets NYC Production; one more reason to support The Theater Project so we can support local artists!

MURROW
by Joseph Vitale

WHY A FIFTIES' JOURNALIST MAKES FOR RELEVANT THEATER TODAY

Next spring, the Phoenix Theatre Ensemble in New York will stage my play, Murrow, which debuted at The Theater Project in February.  The Phoenix Theatre Ensemble, founded in 2004 on New York’s Lower East Side, stages classical as well as new works.

The genesis of the play dates to my days at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism in the early 1980s, when I was a student of Murrow’s long-time producer, Fred W. Friendly ... It was Fred’s stories about working with Murrow—and especially his recounting of the events leading to the historic McCarthy broadcast of March 1954—that excited me and got me thinking that a one-character play about Murrow’s life would be dramatic and intriguing.

 

Click here to read more
http://www.thetheaterproject.org/blog

Click here to donate
http://www.thetheaterproject.org/make-a-donation.html

 

HUDSON SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK PRESENTS CROSS-GENDER COMEDY @ A VARIETY OF VENUES THROUGH THE SUMMER

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The Hudson Shakespeare Company of Jersey City kicks off its 24th Shakespeare in the Park series with a new twist on old favorite presenting a cross-gendered Shakespearean comedy,

LOVE’S LABOURS LOST 

WHEN & WHERE:

  • Thursday, June 11, 7pm, Hamilton Park, Jersey City, NJ
  • Friday, June 12, 7pm, Van Vorst Park, Jersey City, NJ
  • Monday, June 15, 7pm, Sinatra Park, Hoboken, NJ
  • Tuesday, June 16, 7:30pm, Monument Park, Fort Lee, NJ
  • Wednesday, June 17, 7:30pm, Staib Park, Hackensack, NJ
  • Saturday, June 20, 7pm, Historic Harsimus Cemetery, Jersey City, NJ
  • Monday, June 22, 7pm, Kenilworth Library, Kenilworth, NJ
  • Tuesday, June 23, 7:30pm, Monument Park, Fort Lee, NJ
  • Wednesday, June 24, 7:30pm, Staib Park Hackensack, NJ
  • Thursday, June 25th, 7pm, Westfield Memorial Library, NJ

When many of us are introduced to Shakespeare in school, one of the details that often stands out is that only male actors played all the parts. While this practice seems strange to us, it was the accepted convention that on the professional London stage only men were considered suitable enough for a dubious profession of being "an actor."

Despite the fact that it was illegal for women to be actors and women did appear on stage in England but in regional religious festivals and on the professional stages of Spain, France and Italy. This curious English only practice was so entrenched in their culture that even decades after Shakespeare died and women finally came to the stage some of the old guard actors decried the practice saying that actresses couldn't truly depict women on the stage.

"Each season, Hudson Shakespeare likes putting new and fresh spins on popular titles and exploring titles that audiences may not be normally exposed to," said director Jon Ciccarelli. "Love's Labours Lost on its own is a fun romp of a romantic comedy and a feast of Shakespearean poetry but we wanted to see how else to delve into what is essentially of men and women trying to outwit each other when it comes to seduction of the other gender. So we decided to take the commonly known Shakespeare practice of men playing all of the roles and expand it to having women take on male characters," Ciccarelli said.

Ciccarelli urged that the show isn't some treatment on gender studies or making some bold statement but having fun with the Shakespeare convention of cross gendering. "Shakespeare's male actors did it their day and many of his other plays feature cross dressed women who dress up as man, so we're going more for what behaviors or attitudes make up what it means to man or woman as played by the opposite gender and we've found there are really no hard fast characteristics. They run the gamut and "Love's Labours Lost" is a hysterical play to explore how the other half lives", he added.

Hudson Shakespeare Company, now in its 24th season of traveling Shakespeare. The company will return in July with the Lost Shakespeare Play The Murder of Thomas Arden of Faversham, a black comedy featuring a bunch of inept killers in their various pathetic attempts to dispose of a rich land owner with a twist ending and the tragedy of the prince of Denmark, Hamlet in August.

For more information visit http://ellem-fair.wix.com/hudsonshakespeare or call 973.449.7443.

ENTER THE RECORDING STUDIO WITH “MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET” @ bergenPAC THIS THURSDAY

MDQ 300dpiMillion Dollar Quartet

WHEN: THURSDAY, JUNE 25TH,  8 PM
WHERE:
bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood
TICKETS: $89, $69, $59, $49, $39, $29
www.ticketmaster.com 
www.bergenpac.org 
201.227.1030

The international Tony® Award-Winning musical, Million Dollar Quartet is set on December 4, 1956, when an auspicious twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together. Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll” who was responsible for launching the careers of each icon, gathered the four legendary musicians at the Sun Records storefront studio in Memphis for the first and only time. The resulting evening became known as one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll jam sessions in history.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET brings that legendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal, humorous banter and celebrations featuring timeless hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “That’s All Right,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “See Ya Later, Alligator,” “Fever,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Hound Dog” and more.

When the Broadway production opened in April 2010, critics and audiences leapt to their feet in unanimous praise. The New York Times called the show, “a buoyant new musical that whips the crowd into a frenzy,” New York Magazine labeled it, “a dazzling raucous spectacle that sounds like a million bucks,” and NY1 called it, “90 minutes of platinum grade entertainment.” The musical continued its successful New York engagement at New World Stages through June 2012.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET won a Tony Award® for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical and received two Tony Award® nominations, one for Best Musical, and one for Best Book of a Musical (Colin Escott & Floyd Mutrux). The show received an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical, a Drama Desk nomination for Outstanding Musical Revue and three Drama League nominations including Distinguished Production of a Musical and Distinguished Performance.

This thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio with four major talents who came together as a red-hot rock 'n' roll band for one unforgettable night. Don't miss your chance to be a fly on the wall of fame... at MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET!

ICONIC ART GARFUNKEL TO APPEAR @ STATE THEATER THIS FRIDAY

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Art Garfunkel

WHEN: Fri, June 26, at 8 PM
WHERE: 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
TICKETS: $85, $65, $55, $45, $35
Ticket Office – 732.246.SHOW (7469)
Online - www.StateTheatreNJ.org

The State Theatre ticket office, located at 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick NJ, is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 10am to 6pm; Wednesday 11am to 7pm; Saturday, 1pm-5pm; and at least three hours prior to curtain on performance dates, unless otherwise specified. For information on group outings and discounts, call 732-247-7200, ext. 517. Some additional ticket and transaction fees may apply.

State Theatre presents Art Garfunkel. Grammy®-winning musician Art Garfunkel takes the State Theatre stage for a night of  hits including “Scarborough Fair,” “The Sound Of Silence,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and more.

Blessed with what the New York Times described as a “beautiful countertenor,” singer Art Garfunkel has made an indelible mark on the music world as both a solo artist and half of the unrivaled Simon & Garfunkel. He has also enjoyed a successful film career, published a book of poetry, and released 12 solo albums; the most recent being The Singer in 2012.

After Simon & Garfunkel parted ways in 1970, Garfunkel landed several major film roles, including Carnal Knowledge (opposite Jack Nicholson), Catch 22, and Nicholas Roeg’s Bad Timing/A Sensual Obsession. His solo debut Angel Clare spawned the top 10 hit “All I Know.” His other solo albums include Breakaway (‘75; features the hit “I Only Have Eyes For You”), Watermark (‘78; featuring “[What A] Wonderful World” with James Taylor and Paul Simon), Fate For Breakfast (‘79), Scissors Cut (‘81), The Animals’ Christmas (‘86), Lefty (‘88), Garfunkel (greatest hits, ‘88), Up Till Now (‘93), Across America (‘97), Songs From a Parent to a Child (‘97), Everything Waits to be Noticed (‘03), Some Enchanted Evening (‘07), and The Singer (2012).

State Theatre, a premier nonprofit venue for the performing arts and entertainment. The theater exists to enrich people’s lives, contribute to a vital urban environment, and build future audiences by presenting the finest performing artists and entertainers and fostering lifetime appreciation for the performing arts through education. The State Theatre’s programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals. The Heldrich is the official hotel of the State Theatre. Magic 98.3 is the official radio station of the State Theatre. The Star-Ledger is the official newspaper of the State Theatre. United is the official airline of the State Theatre.

TWO RIVER THEATER ANNOUNCES 2015-2016 SEASON

One of my favorite theaters, the Two River Theater Company in Red Bank has just announced its 2015-2016 season. It looks exciting, so mark your calendars and prepare to travel to Red Bank, have dinner and see a show!

Learn more

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE SHOWS (link on graphic will not work)

WHERE: Two River Theater, 21 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank, NJ 732.345.1400
tworivertheater.org
info@trtc.org

CHATHAM COMMUNITY BAND OFFERS 2 CONCERTS FOR ITS 30TH SEASON

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CHATHAM COMMUNITY BAND
under the direction of Brian Conti

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES #2
WHEN: Tuesday, July 7, 2015 (Rain Date July 9), 7:00 PM
WHERE:
Lum Field, 19 Lum Ave., Chatham, NJ

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES #3
WHEN: Tuesday, July 21, 2015, 7:00 PM
WHERE:
Juniper Village, 500 Southern Blvd., Chatham, NJ

Music will include popular favorites and festive selections for the season. Members of the band come from all walks of life, and enjoy bringing instrumental concert music to Chatham and surrounding communities.

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

SEE WORLD’S BEST SHORT FILMS @ KAPLEN JCC IN TENAFLY

New! JCC U Presents

Globe Trot 1ASBURY SHORTS
An Evening of the World’s Best Short Films

WHEN: Tuesday, June 30, 7:30-9:30 PM
WHERE:
Kaplen JCC, 411 E. Clinton Ave., Tenafly
TICKETS: $12.00 JCC member; $15.00 non-members.
To register call Kathy at 201 408.1454 or visit www.jccotp.org

Did you ever watch the Oscars when they were presenting Best Short Film and say to yourself, “Where are these films and why I haven’t I seen them?”

Well, now you can. Asbury Shorts, a touring exhibition that presents these highly entertaining films in high prestige venues around the country, will bring its nationally-acclaimed, short film exhibition to the JCC. The night will include a full evening of award-winning films, curated from the top global film festivals and will feature a mix of Oscar winners and nominees in short film comedy, drama, animation and documentary.

This program offers a rare opportunity for people to see great films on a large screen in a real theater setting. A sample of films that will be screened include:

A Poet Long Ago (Director: Bob Giraldi). This film stars Steve Schirripa as Sonny (a sanitation worker) and Boris McGiver as Malloy (a journalist) who meet by chance on the street and reminisce about their grammar school days together back in 1970s Brooklyn. An old wound is opened, and flashbacks reveal how the least likely of the pair had an astonishing gift for poetry.

In The Dark (Directed by Bettina Bilger) is a modern urban love story about a newly introduced young couple and the odd people in their Manhattan apartment, where miscommunication, social networking and odd neighbors abound.

The Bloody Olive (Director: Vincent Bal) is about a couple, Mylene and Werner, who are preparing for the holidays, when Sam, a colleague of Mylene, stops by with a bottle of Veuve Cliqot and tells Werner that he knows he has stolen money from their workplace. An argument ensues, a murder takes place and the plot thickens.

Globe Trot (Director: Mitchell Rose) From Papua, New Guinea to Taipei, Moscow to Los Angeles, and South Africa to Antarctica, award-winning dance filmmaker Mitchell Rose has asked people to perform a short segment of choreography and has streamed it together in a short film that celebrates humanity through dance. (Image above)

Sunday, June 21, 2015

ACOUSTIC GUITAR PERFORMANCES @ MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER NEXT WEEK

Mary_Chapin_Carpenter_PressMary Chapin Carpenter
With Aoife O’Donovan

WHEN: Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at 8 PM
WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown
TICKETS: $29-$59

Five-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and 2012 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Mary Chapin Carpenter will perform an intimate, acoustic performance at Mayo Performing Arts Center.

The tour marks Carpenter’s return to singing both timeless hits and deep cuts from her expansive and beloved 13-album catalog after performing with orchestras in early 2014. Carpenter will be joined on stage by longtime friends Jon Carroll (piano) and John Doyle (guitars, bouzouki).

Stanley Jordan and Kevin Eubanks

WHEN: Thursday, June 25, 2015 at 8 PM
WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown
TICKETS: $29-$59

Two guitar masters, Stanley Jordan and Kevin Eubanks, perform at Mayo Performing Arts Center. This performance was rescheduled from March, when it was snowed out.

Eubanks_pressKevin Eubanks is the Philadelphia native who took New York by storm starting out in straight ahead jazz clubs then progressive albums for contemporary jazz giant GRP Records and legendary Blue Note Records, frequent collaborations with cutting edge bassist Dave Holland, and then 18 years in Jay Leno's "The Tonight Show" Band (15 as Music Director) where he played with seemingly every meaningful musician across genres.

stanley-jordan_PCKeithMajor_press (450x600)Stanley Jordan is the Chicago-born/Bay Area-raised phenomenon who mesmerized audiences with his instantly identifiable "touch technique" on guitar beginning with his gold-selling Blue Note Records debut Magic Touch (featuring his radio staple remake of Michael Jackson's The Lady in My Life), followed by a string of wide-ranging endeavors including a one-off for Clive Davis' Arista Records and explorations into the field of music therapy.