the arts
The Music & Dance and Theatre categories include an incredible array of performances for all ages -- from parents and grandparents to young adults, teens, elementary students and young children. Shows specifically designed for young children are typically found under “Family” or “Children’s” series listings. Keep in mind that many shows for family audiences are full-length productions most suitable for older children and teens. Age recommendations are only guidelines. Parents must use their discretion in determining their individual child’s readiness for a theater, music or dance performance.
new jersey theatre alliance
The New Jersey Theatre Alliance, an alliance of professional theaters in New Jersey, publishes a calendar four times a year. They also sponsor The Stages Festival annually in Mar. and publish an online catalog, which details educational and outreach programs offered by the group's members and affiliate theaters. For information, contact New Jersey Theatre Alliance, 8 Marcella Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052, 973-731-6582, email info@njtheatrealliance.org, or visit their website.
www.njartstix.org
A program of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance offers an overview of performances across the state and the opportunity to purchase discounted tickets 48 hours in advance of showtime or one week in advance with a $30 yearly donation.
www.culturalaccessnetwork.org
Website lists all accessible theaters, museums, cultural attractions and performing arts centers around the state.
the stages festival - march 2012
Professional theatres across the state offer free and discounted tickets to performances and special events including theatrical workshops, classes and backstage tours. For a complete roster of events, visit The Stages Festival website.
Actors Shakespeare Company
West Side Theatre, New Jersey City University, 285 West Side Ave., Jersey City, 201-200-2390. Nov.-May season includes main stage productions, family classics and staged readings. Adults $30, srs./students $15, ages 15 and under pay your age.
Mar 16-Apr 1
Macbeth.
Jun
The Tempest.
All Children’s Theatre
1180 Rt. 46 W., Parsippany, 973-335-5328, email: allchildrensth@aol.com. Where Every Child Is a Star— performing arts by young performers ages 4-17. Performances Saturdays spring-fall and Friday evenings in the summer. Holiday vacation camps offered in Parsippany in Nov., Dec., Feb., and April. Air-conditioned theatre seats 70. Group discounts. Established 1983.
Appel Farm Arts & Music Center
457 Shirley Rd., Elmer, 800-394-1211. Year round programs include concert series, family series, arts classes, summer camp and annual arts and music festival in June.
Family Matinee Series
Feb 11
A Year with Frog & Toad, 2-3pm.
Mar 17
Finn McCool & Other Tall Tales, 2-3pm.
Mar 31
The Fun & Funny Juggling Show with Will Shaw, 2-3pm.
Apr 14
North, South, East & Jim West, 1-2pm.
ArtsPower Field Trip Series
Webster Commons, 271 Grove Ave., Bldg. A, Verona, 973-239-0100. Non-profit professional touring theater presents original school-time shows at theaters throughout the state and is also available for booking at school assemblies or other events. Consult website for schedule and to purchase tickets.
Bergen Performing Arts Center
30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood, 201-227-1030. Oct.-May season offers music, dance, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra concerts, comedy, family and special events. See Music & Dance for additional performances.
Bickford Theatre
Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3706. Year round performances include special concert events, movies, Main Stage and children's theater series and Jazz Showcase, co-sponsored by the New Jersey Jazz Society. Student discounts and subscriptions available.
Main Stage
Jan 26-Feb 12
Veronica's Room, psychological thriller by. Ira Levin.
Apr 12-May 6
I Do! I Do!, musical.
Broadway Theatre of Pitman
43 S. Broadway, Pitman, 856-384-8381. Six main stage shows, a Dec. holiday show and children's theater season are presented in a former movie and vaudeville theater from 1926. Concerts, movies, special events and children's summer theater camp are also scheduled.
Main Stage
Jan 13-Feb 5
Mame, musical.
Mar 9-Apr 1
Noises Off, by Michael Frayn.
Apr 27-Mar 20
The Secret Garden, musical.
Children's Theatre
One hour shows designed for ages 3-9. Saturday performances at 10am, Sun. at 10 & 1pm.
Jan 21-22
The Three Little Pigs.
Feb 17-19
Charlotte's Web.
Mar 18-19
School House Rock.
Apr 14- 16
Cinderella.
May 20-21
The Little Mermaid.
Jun 17-18
Alice in Wonderland.
Brookdale Performing Arts Center
765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732-224-2411. Music, dance, and theater department performances Sept.-May and free outdoor summer theater.
Mar 2-11
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. Fri. & Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 2pm.
Apr 20-29
Kids' Show TBA.
Jul 12-22
Summer Shakespeare on the Lawn.
Brundage Park Playhouse
Carrell Rd., Randolph, 973-989-7092. Community theater with Feb.-Dec. performances, improv comedy, For Kids by Kids performances, youth theater classes and summer camp. Performances on Fri. & Sat. at 8pm, Sunday 2pm.
2012 Main Stage
Feb 3-19
The Sound of Music, musical.
May 4-20
The Crucible, by Arthur Miller.
Jul 6-21
Disney's Alice in Wonderland Jr., musical.
Centenary Stage Company
Lackland Center, Centenary College, 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown, 908-979-0900. Concerts and special events, jazz series, theater season by professional Centenary Stage Company, Women's Playwright series, children's series, and Festival of Shows presented by members of Young Performers Workshops at end of fall, spring and summer sessions. Student rates; student matinees; Family Night on Thurs. with 2-for-1 tickets available only at the door.
Selected Events
Jun 1-10
Marathon of Musicals, Spring Young Performers Workshop.
Centenary Young Audiences Series
May 19
A Thousand Cranes, 11am.
Chatham Community Players
23 N. Passaic Ave., Chatham, 973-635-7363. In addition to the Player's regular season, Fantasy Theater, the children's entertainment arm of the Players, presents two productions per year. Subscriptions, student rates, group rates.
Mar 2-17
Grapes of Wrath, from the novel by John Steinbeck.
May 4-19
Cabaret, musical
Collingswood Community Theatre
Children's shows at Scottish Rite Auditorium, 315 White Horse Pike, Collingswood, 609-217-4691. Local community theater stages 4-5 productions per year, annual cabaret show and children's theater series.
Feb 17-26
The Music Man, musical.
Count Basie Theatre
99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732-842-9000. Nov.-June season of concerts by major recording artists, comedy, dance, theater, classical music and family events in a 1,550 seat theater circa 1926. Cool School offers classes in acting, dance, music, voice and videography; youth jazz training program for middle and high school students; school shows. Half-price tickets may be available on the day of a show at the discretion of the box office. See Music & Dance for concert and dance listings and check website for new shows.
Selected Shows
Apr 4
Video Games Live.
Free Film Series
Films shown monthly on Tuesdays at 7pm. Tickets are free, but must be obtained through the box office.
Feb 14
Garden State, R.
Apr 10
The Toxic Avenger, NR-17.
Cranford Dramatic Club
78 Winans Ave., Cranford, 908-276-7611. Community theater has been presenting plays and musicals in Cranford since 1918. Oct.-May season features 3 major productions and annual holiday children's show in Dec. Subscriptions, sr. & student discounts available. Performances Fri.-Sun.
2011-2012 Season
Feb 10-25
Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap.
May 4-19
Rodgers & Hammerstein's Carousel.
Crossroads Theatre
7 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-545-8100. Regional theater presents 4-play main stage season with a focus on literary works that examine the African American experience. Subscription, student and group discounts are offered.
2011-2012 Season
Feb 18-26
In Bed with the Blues: The Adventures of Fishy Waters, Guy Davis one-man show.
Apr 12-22
The Last Five Years, romantic love story.
Darress Theatre
615 Main St., Boonton, 973-334-9292. Former 1920 vaudeville house presents theater, special events and film screenings, some with live organ accompaniment. Check website for schedule.
DeBaun Auditorium
Stevens Institute of Technology, Castle Point on Hudson, 5th & Hudson Sts., Hoboken, 201-216-8933. Student and faculty theater, music and dance events, Spoken Word series and special events.
Dover Little Theatre
Elliot St., Dover, 973-328-9202. Community theater presents Oct.-June subscription series. Junior Theatre Initiative offers free reserved seats for school-aged children (aged 17 & under) at select performances. Reservations must be made by a parent or guardian 48 hours prior to performance and are open to youth in Dover and neighboring towns who have an interest in theatrical arts. Teen memberships are also offered to interested teens.
Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre
Baird Center, 5 Mead St., South Orange, 973-378-7754, ext. 2228. Professional theater in residence at the Baird Center produces innovative material, staged readings, annual family production, offers an internship program for high school and college students, classes for teens and adults, summer Teen Actors Conservatory and a variety of volunteer opportunities. First Friday, the first performance of each mainstage show, costs $10 for students.
2011-2012 Season
Mar 9-25
Blood, A Comedy, by David Lee White.
Apr 14
Multiple Personality Disorder, Dreamcatcher's improv comedy troupe.
Jul 27
Dreamcatcher Junior, final performance of Summer Theatre Conservatory.
Florham Park Players
299 Brooklake Rd., Florham Park, 973-377-9078. Community theater sponsors Jerry Gibson Memorial Youth Summer Theater, a summer theater experience for ages 13-19.
Forum Theatre Arts Center
314 Main St., Metuchen, 732-548-5600. Mainstage theatre, special events, Kids Forum children's theater, independent and foreign films are presented in a 1928 theater and vaudeville tryout house. After school and summer arts programs are available for children and teens.
George Street Playhouse
9 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-246-7717. Professional theater dedicated to the production of new American plays offers subscriptions, student subscriptions, Next Stage Series (new play workshop series), student matinees and touring theater productions for grades K & up (732-846-2895 x115). Year-round theater classes for ages 5 to adult.
2011-2012 Season
Jan 31-Feb 26
Red, by John Logan, winner of six Tony Awards.
Apr 24-Mar 20
The 39 Steps, fast-paced comedy suitable for ages 9 to 90.
Growing Stage
The Palace Theatre, Rt. 183, Netcong, 973-347-4946. Professional children's theater presents Sept.-May season. Group rates, subscription series, birthday parties. Touring show available for schools and community organizations. Main Stage
Performances Fri. at 7:30pm, Sat. & Sun. at 4pm.
Jan 13-Feb 5
Mother Hicks, story of three outsiders. Ages 7 and up.
Mar 9-Apr 1
Seussical, Theatre for Young Audiences version. All ages.
Apr 27-Mar 20
Diary of a Worm, A Spider and A Fly, New Jersey premiere. All ages.
The Sand Box Series
Interactive experience 2pm Sat. & Sun. is designed for the pre-school to kindergarten-aged audience. Tickets $10.
Jan Going to the Theatre, introduction to the world of theater.
Apr 14-22
The Boy & The Box.
Jun 2-10
Aaarrgh! The Pirate Play.
Hudson Theatre Ensemble
Sixth St. & Park Ave., Hoboken, 201-377-7014. Professional community theater presents adult shows and Silly on Sixth children’s series.
Hunterdon Hills Playhouse
88 Rt. 173W (Rt. 78 exit 12), Hampton, 908-730-8007, 800-447-7313. Dinner theater presents musical reviews, light-hearted comedies, annual holiday revue and summer musical.
JCC MetroWest
JCC MetroWest Maurice Levin Theater, Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC, Ross Family Campus, 760 Northfield Ave., West Orange, 973-530-3410. Shows for children and families, performances by JCC Children and Teen Production Companies, Triple Threat Theater Camp and vacation programs, JCC Maccabi ArtsFest, and New Jersey Jewish Film Festival.
Kean Stage
Kean University Wilkins Theatre, 1000 Morris Ave., Union; or Eugene and Shelley Enlow Recital Hall, Nathan Weiss Graduate School campus, 250 North Ave., Hillside, 908-737-7469. Sept.-May season includes world-class music and dance artists, chamber music series, student and faculty productions, Holocaust Resource Center events, lecture series, family series and on school time performances. During summer, Premiere Stages (www.kean.edu/premierestages), a professional equity theater company in residence, develops new plays and offers family-friendly musical theater, theater camp for middle school and high school students and school residencies for grades 1-12 during the school year. Student rates; subscriptions. See Music & Dance for more events.
Children's Theatre
Mar 28-31, Apr 1
Children's Theatre Production, TBA. March 28-30 12 & 8pm, March 31 2 & 8pm, April 1 8pm.
International Film
3pm, Jules Schwartz Lecture Hall, STEM Building.
Jan 29
Water, by Deepa Mehta.
Feb 5
Departures, by Yojiro Takita.
Feb 12
The Secret in their Eyes, by Juan Jose Campanella.
Kelsey Theatre at Mercer
County Community College
1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor, 609-570-3333. Home to a student company and ten resident theater companies, Kelsey Theatre offers live cultural events, family theater, children's theater and adult events, both professional and semi-professional, year 'round. Most performances Fri.-Sun. Tickets $16, $14 and $12.
Selected Full-Length Events
Jan 27-Feb 5
Laughter on the 23rd Floor, by Neil Simon.
Feb 17-19
Deja Vu, Reock & Roll Revue, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young revue.
Feb 24-Mar 4
Death of a Salesman, by Arthur Miller.
Mar 9-18
Xanadu, musical.
Mar 23-Apr 1
The Wizard of Oz.
Apr 13-22
Hairspray.
Apr 27-May 6
A Chorus Line.
May 12-13
MDE–On the Move, dance.
May 18- Jun 3
Stephen Sondheim's Company.
Jun 8-17
The Drowsy Chaperone.
Jun 22- 24
Jeffrey, Paul Rudnick's romantic comedy.
Kelsey Kids Events
Jan 21
The Kazoobie KazooShow, Rick Hubbard.
Feb 10-12
Disney's Camp Rock, the musical.
Mar 3
Dinosaur Babies, Dino Rock.
May 5
Goldilocks & The 3 Bears, Kaleidoscope Theatre.
May 19
Skippyjon Jones, Theatreworks USA.
Luna Stage
555 Valley Rd., West Orange, 973-395-5551. Professional equity theater presents new works in an intimate 99-seat black box theater and 40-seat studio theater. Mainstage plays, literary and play reading series and indie musicians nights are offered as well as education programs, including creative drama classes for ages 4-college-age, creative writing for children and adults, and playwrighting workshops for adults.
Feb 9-Mar 11
Reparation, world premiere by Gino Dilorio.
Apr 19-Mar 20
Copenhagen, by Michael Frayn.
Mayo Performing Arts Center
100 South St., Morristown, 973-539-8008. 1,200-seat venue offers a wide array of classical music, jazz, dance, drama, comedy, children's programming and contemporary music. Create-your-own subscriptions; family subscriptions; student and group discounts. Internship/community service programs available to high school students. School-time shows are open to school groups.
Kids Club
Tickets $12 unless noted. See listings under Music & Dance for additional performances.
Mar 4
Pinkalicious: The Musical, ages 4-12. 11, 1:30 & 4pm. $12-15.
Mar 13
The Paper Bag Players Laugh, Laugh, Laugh, 10:30 & 4pm.
Mar 19
The Magic School Bus–Live!, K-3. 4pm.
Mar 26
Seussical, ages 4-10. 4pm.
Apr 1
Max & Ruby: Bunny Party, ages 4-10. 1:30 & 4:30pm. $12-15.
Apr 24
Butterfly: The Story of a Life Cycle, ages 4-12. 4pm.
May 3
A.A. Milne's House at Pooh Corner, 4pm.
May 20
Pinocchio, New Jersey Ballet, ages 4 & up. 1:30 & 4pm. $12-15.
McCarter Theatre Center for the Performing Arts
91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. Internationally known artists in music, dance, theater, world and special events. Extensive education programs include student matinees, touring shows, theater workshops, group backstage tours, in-school programs and professional development. Discount student tickets available. See Music & Dance for additional events.
2011-2012 Theatre Series
Jan 13-Feb 12
The Convert, world premiere by Danai Gurira.
Mar 13-Apr 1
Travesties, by Tom Stoppard.
May 4-Jun 3
Are You There, McPhee?, world premiere by John Guare.
Selected Events
Feb 26
Peking Acrobats, 3pm.
Apr 7-8
Circus Oz, Australia's National Circus.
May 12
Hal Holbrook as Mark Twain Tonight, 7:30pm.
May 18
The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion.
Monmouth University Performing Arts
Pollak Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch, 732-263-6889. Sept.-May season of contemporary concerts and special events, visiting writers, theater, dance and children's theater in an intimate 700-seat theater. In summer, Shadow Lawn Stage presents summer theater. For birthday party packages, 732-571-3473.
Children's Theatre
May 20
Junie B. Jones, Theatreworks USA. 2pm. Adults $12, children $10.
Montclair State University
Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University, One Normal Ave., Montclair, 973-655-5112, box office; 973-655-3059, info. School of the Arts theater, music and dance performances and professional arts events are presented through Peak Performances. All tickets $15.
Montclair Operetta Club (MOC)
Performances at Memorial Auditorium, Montclair State University, 973-744-3133. Community theater presents two musical productions in fall and spring from Broadway classics to contemporaries. Student rates.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center
One Center St., Newark, 1-888-GO NJPAC. 2,750-seat Prudential Hall and 500-seat Victoria Theater in Newark. Classical music, international dance, world music & jazz, contemporary concerts, theater and family series. Subscriptions; individual tickets; $13 student rush tickets offered at the box office one hour before curtain time. Subject to availability, valid ID required, limit two per student. Additional events are listed under Music & Dance.
Selected Events
Feb 10
Masters of Illusion Live!, ages 12 & up.
Feb 14-19
Hair, mature audiences.
Mar 30-31
Cinematic Titanic, Mystery Science Theater 3000.
May 1-6
West Side Story, Broadway revival.
Jun 2
One Man Lord of the Rings, written and performed by Charles Ross. Ages 8 & up.
FamilyTime Series
Jan 28
John Tartaglia's ImaginOcean, glow-in-the-dark musical. Ages 3 & up. 11 & 2.
Mar 17-18
P. Nokio–A Hip Hop Musical, Imagination Stage. Ages 6 & up. 2pm.
May 12
Mayhem Poets, ages 12 & up. 2pm.
New Jersey Repertory Company
Lumia Theatre, 179 Broadway, Long Branch, 732-229-3166. Professional theater presents new plays, classics and staged readings. Senior, student, group discounts.
Feb 2- 19
Summer in Sanctuary, AJ Letson.
Mar 1-25
In A Daughter's Eyes, New Jersey premiere by Zell Williams.
Apr 19-May 20
The Hound of the Baskervilles, New Jersey premiere by Steven Canny & John Nicholson.
New Jersey Youth Theatre
(formerly WYACT)
Westfield, 908-233-3200. Offers professional classes in drama, musical theater, voice and dance from September through mid-May annually. In April holds auditions for its prestigious, free summer program for aspiring young performers and technicians (ages 16-21+), culminating with one or more professional-level productions presented at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), and at other professional New Jersey theaters.
Paper Mill Playhouse
Brookside Drive, Millburn, 973-376-4343; 973-379-3636. Professional theater presents musicals, plays, concerts, fall and spring children’s theater and school time performances. Flex pass options, group, sr. and student subscriptions. Student rush tickets may be available the day of performance in person with student ID. On special dates for select shows, receive one free child’s ticket with purchase of full price adult ticket. Conversation series with cast and directors prior to curtain is held for some dates.
2011-2012 Season
Jan 18-Feb 12
Boeing-Boeing.
Mar 7- Apr 1
Damn Yankees, musical.
May 30-Jun 24
Once on this Island, musical love story.
Children's Theatre Series
All shows start at 10am. Tickets $20/$15/$12.
Feb 18
Charlotte's Web, Theatreworks USA. 10 & 1:30pm. Ages 5 and up.
Mar 17
Ramona Quimby, Theatreworks USA. 10 & 1:30pm. Ages 6 and up.
Mar 31
Seussical, Theatreworks USA. Ages 5 and up.
Apr 14
Henry & Mudge, Theatreworks USA. Ages 5 and up.
May 5
The Rainbow Fish, ArtsPower National Touring Theatre. Ages 4 and up.
May 12
SkippyJon Jones, Theatreworks USA. Ages 5 and up.
Sensory Friendly Performances 2011-2012 Season
Planned in cooperation with Autism NJ and The Douglass Development Disabilities Center at Rutgers, the theater environment will be altered to provide a sensory-friendly, comfortable and judgment-free space for all families. Online resource materials are available and free "Meet Your Seat" Open House for children new to the theater experience is offered the day before each performance.
Apr 21
Red Riding Hood & Other Stories, Pushcart Players. 10am.
Paper Moon Puppet Theatre
171 First Ave., (on W. Garfield), Atlantic Highlands, 732-775-0290. Presents international fairy tales, fables and folk tales, offers touring productions, puppetry classes for ages 6-12 and birthday parties.
Opens Jan 14
The Sleeping Beauty.
Patriots Theater at the War Memorial
Located on Memorial Dr. in downtown Trenton's historic Capitol Complex, 609-984-8400. Owned by the state of New Jersey, Patriots Theater hosts the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, contemporary musicians, comedy and theatrical events Oct.-May and summer outdoor concert series.
Pax Amicus Castle Theatre
23 Lake Shore Dr. (Exit 26 Rt. 80), Budd Lake, 973-
691-2100. Year round season of Broadway and off-Broadway revivals; professional productions of Shakespeare's plays for students; comics and other performing artists; and a season of theater for children. School time performances.
Selected Family Events
Apr 18-May 18
Romeo & Juliet, Shakespeare. Mon.-Fri. 10am.For middle and high schools, some tickets may be available to the general public.
Plays-in-the-Park
Stephen J. Capestro Theater, Rt. 1S (1 block south of Menlo Park Mall), Edison, 732-548-2884. Middlesex County Department of Parks & Recreation's community theater presents summer outdoor and indoor performances at Roosevelt Park and annual holiday show at the State Theatre in New Brunswick (also see Arts in the Park).
Playwrights Theatre
PO Box 1295, Madison, 973-514-1787. Professional theater devoted to the development of new plays and writers for the stage. World-premiere productions; new play roundtable readings; extensive year-round educational programs for young people and adults, including special teen classes and classes for teachers (also see Enrichment and Camps).
Raritan Valley Community College
Edward Nash Theatre, Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd. (Rt. 78 exit 26 or Rt. 22W), North Branch, 908-725-3420. Major Artists Series, new Tuesdays with Stories Series, Sampler Series for younger children, Family Series for children ages 8 and older and their families, and school-time performances. Student and series discounts. See Music & Dance for more events.
Family Series
Recommended for ages 8 & up. Tickets $25.
Feb 11
Aga-Boom, theatrical clowning. 2 & 7pm.
Apr 20
Zorro, Visible Fictions. 7pm.
May 18
Mur-Mur (The Wall), DynamO Theatre, 7pm.
Sampler Series
Recommended for ages 4 & up. Tickets $10 and $12.
Mar 3
Twinkle, Twonkle, Tall Stories. 1 & 3:30pm.
Apr 1
Gizmo Guys, comedy juggling. 1 & 3:30pm
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey
F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, Drew University campus, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, 973-408-5600. Professional theater dedicated to the presentation of Shakespeare and other classic masterworks. Subscriptions, FlexPass, student rates and $10 student rush tickets available for April thru Dec. season. First performance of each production is designated "pay-what-you-can." Pre-performance talks and post-performance discussions on select dates. Shakespeare Live!, one-hour production followed by discussion for grades 3-12, available to tour schools, libraries and other organizations, 973-408-3964.
2012 Season
May 30-Jun 24
Henry IV, Part One, by William Shakespeare.
Jul 4-Jul 29
The Liar, by David Ives, adapted from the comedy by Pierre Corneille.
Aug 8-26
Measure for Measure, by William Shakespeare.
Sep 12-Oct 7
Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist, adapted by Neil Bartlett.
Oct 17-Nov 18
Man of La Mancha, by Dale Wasserman with lyrics by Joe Darion and music by Mitch Leigh.
Dec 5-30
Trelawny of the Wells, by Arthur Wing Pinero.
Summer Outdoor Stage
Performances in Greek amphitheater at the College of St. Elizabeth, Morris Twp., in June and July.
Jun 20-Jul 29
The Comedy of Errors, by William Shakespeare.
Shea Center for Performing Arts–WPLive
William Paterson University, 300 Pompton Rd., Wayne, 973-720-2371. Arts hotline: 973-720-ARTS. Jazz series, professional touring artists, family and schooltime shows, university theater and music performances and lecture series presented Sept.-May.
Vistas Family Scene
Performances at 2pm, pre-performance activities begin at 1:15. Post-show autograph session. Tickets $10.
Mar 3
Red Riding Hood & Other Stories, Pushcart Players. Adults $10, children free.
Apr 28
A.A. Milne's The House at Pooh Corner, Theatre IV.
Selected Events
Apr 12-15, 25-29
Winner of the 8th Annual New Jersey Playwrights Contest, fully staged production of the winning playwrights work.
Jun 7-10, 15-17, 22-24
Winner of the 8th Annual NJPC Musical Series.
ShowKids Invitational Theatre (SKIT)
Shows at Voorhees High School, 256 County Rd. 513, Glen Gardner, 908-638-5959. Non-profit family community theater group was founded to provide a theater experience for children in Hunterdon County and give the community professional quality children's theater. Tickets $10-17, seats sell out quickly. Costumes and props available for rent.
Apr 28-May 6
Thoroughly Modern Millie, SKIT Show.
Somerset Valley Playhouse
Rt. 514 (689 Amwell Rd.), Neshanic Station, 908-369-7469. Year 'round community theater staged in a 1900's 2-room schoolhouse.
2012 Season
Jan 20-Feb 5
Leader of the Pack: The Ellie Greenwich Musical.
Mar 2-18
Sly Fox, by Larry Gelbart.
Apr 20-May 6
Clue! The Musical, based on the board game by Parker Brothers.
Jun 8-24
Our Town, by Thornton Wilder.
Jul 20-Aug 5
The Little Mermaid, based on Hans Christian Anderson story. All seats $10.
Sep 7-23
Oliver!, musical version of Charles Dickens classic tale.
Oct 19-Nov 4
Dial "M" for Murder, by Frederick Knott.
Nov 30-Dec 16
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe, from the C.S. Lewis story.
South Orange Performing Arts Center
One SOPAC Way, South Orange, 973-313-2787. Intimate 415-seat theater presents performances by major artists in theater, dance, comedy, music, family events and performances by the Seton Hall University Arts Council. In the Loft series presents jazz/blues concerts in an informal, club atmosphere. Youth theater and dance classes; school time performances. See Music & Dance for additional events.
Kids & Family Events
Feb 11
Mammoth Follies, Hudson Vagabond Puppets. 11am.
Mar 10
Sylvester & the Magic Pebble, Enchantment Theatre Company. 11am.
Mar 25
The Cashore Marionettes in Simple Gifts. 2pm.
May 5
A.A. Milne's House at Pooh Corner, Theater IV. 11am.
May 20
Are You My Mother?, ArtsPower. 2pm.
Mainstage Productions
Feb 3-19
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Mar 16-Apr 12
A Flea in Her Ear, comedy.
Jun 8-24
Meredith Wilson's The Music Man.
KidsVill Productions
Dec 10-18
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.
Apr 14-22
The Pied Piper, musical.
State Theatre
15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, 732-246-7469. Full schedule of Broadway, music, dance, opera, symphony and variety events plus a children’s series. Student matinees (open to students & general public), artist-in residence program, Symphony Scholars program, and professional development workshops for teachers. For education programs, call 732-247-7200, ext. 534 or visit
online. Also see Music & Dance listings. Check website often for news and events.
Selected Events
Feb 17-18
Fiddler on the Roof, ages 8 and up.
Mar 30
Hamlet, BAMA Theatre Company, ages 12+.
May 4-6
Disney's Beauty & the Beast, ages 3 and up.
Stony Hill Players
Performances at Oakes Outreach Center, 120 Morris Ave., Summit, 908-277-1732. Community theater produces three shows for fall, winter and spring seasons and offers Pebble Players youth theater program.
Feb 10-19
A Man for All Seasons.
May 5- 20
Cosi Fan Tutte, by W.A. Mozart.
The Strollers
Burgdorff Cultural Center, 10 Durand Rd., Maplewood, 973-761-8453. Community theater presents three plays and one children's production during Nov.-May season. Student discounts, subscription rates.
2011-2012 Season
Jan 27-Feb 5
Al E. Baba & the 40 Varmints, A Texas Tale, children's show. Admission $7.
Mar 16- 24
The Unexpected Guest, Agatha Christie.
May 11-20
Side Man, by Warren Leight.
Studio Playhouse
14 Alvin Place, Montclair, 973-744-9752. Community theater presents Dec.-May season with main stage and children's productions.
Main Stage
Mar 16-31
You Can't Take It With You, comedy by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart.
May 18-Jun 9
Lend Me A Tenor, a farce by Ken Ludwig.
Magic Trunk Shows for Children
Sat. and Sun. performances at 1:30 & 3:30pm.
Feb 18-26
Twinderella.
Apr 21-29
New Clothes for the Emperor.
The Summit Playhouse
10 New England Ave., Summit, 908-273-2192. Community theater presents three shows a year and sponsors Kaleidoscope Theatre, a summer youth theater program.
Feb 24- Mar 10
All My Sons, by Arthur Miller.
Apr 27-May 12
Over the River and Through the Woods, comedy by Joe DiPietro.
Surflight Theatre
Beach & Engleside Aves., Beach Haven, 609-492-9477. Presents well-known children’s stories and fully staged professional musical theater all summer to vacationers and residents of Long Beach Island. Ice cream concoctions at the ShowPlace Ice Cream Parlour next door are named after Broadway show tunes and served by singing and dancing waiters and waitresses during summer. (609-492-0018 for seating info.)
Tri-State Actors Theater
Performing Arts Center, Sussex County Community College, 973-875-2950. Professional regional theater presents March–Dec. season, new play reading series and hosts the Tri-State Actors Youth Company, a theater training program for children, teens and adults.
Selected Events
May 31-Jun 17
The Importance of Being Earnest, by Oscar Wilde.
Two River Theater Company
21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank, 732-345-1400. Sept.-June season presents theater series and education programs which include student matinees, summer theater classes, internships for high school and college students and professional development. Senior and student discounts are available.
2011-2012 Season
Jan 31-Feb 19
Jitney, August Wilson.
Mar 3-Apr 1
In This House, world premiere.
Apr 3-22
Maureen McGovern in Carry It On, musical scrapbook from 1960's to early 70's.
May 15-Jun 3
My Wonderful Day, comedy by Alan Ayckbourn.
Union County Performing Arts Center
1601 Irving St., Rahway, 732-499-8226. Concerts, jazz, comedy, theater, film, family and children events are presented in a 1,300 seat vintage 1920's auditorium. Student/sr. discounts. Summer theater program for ages 5-18 and school time performances are also offered. Check website for added events, See Music & Dance for additional events.
Selected Children & Family Events
Mar 3-11
The Emperor's New Clothes, Alliance Rep Theatre Co.
Villagers Theater
Franklin Twp. Municipal Complex, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset, 732-873-2710. Community theater presents Main Stage, Black Box (adult themes), teen and children’s productions Oct.-June. Summer theater arts program; children’s parties
Mainstage Productions
Feb 3- 19
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Mar 16-Apr 12
A Flea in Her Ear, comedy.
Jun 8- 24
Meredith Wilson's The Music Man.
KidsVill Productions
Apr 14-22
The Pied Piper, musical.
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Westfield Community Players
1000 North Ave. W., Westfield. Box office, 908-232-1221, opens one week before show. Office, 908-232-9568. Community theater presents Oct.-May season.
2011-2012 Season
Mar 3-24
The Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee Williams.
May 5-19
Don't Dress for Dinner, comedy by Marc Camoletti.
Westminster Arts Center
Corner of Franklin & Fremont Sts., Bloomfield, 973-748-9008 ext. 279. Sept.-May season consists of music, dance, theater and family performances. Adult productions of diverse and lesser known works are produced by 4th Wall Theatre. Student/sr. discounts offered.
Women’s Theater Company
In residence at Parsippany Arts Center, 1130 Knoll Rd., Lake Hiawatha, 973-316-3033. Professional theater company dedicated to development, promotion and inclusion of women in all aspects of theater production. Oct.-May season. School touring productions and theater workshops available.
2011-2012 Season
Mar 2-18
The Last Five Years, one-act musical.
May 4-20
Southern Comforts, comedy by Kathleen Clark.
Young People's Theatre
Performances 1pm at Terrill Middle School, Terrill Rd., Scotch Plains. Series of three one-hour children's performances Jan.-Mar.
Feb 4
Let Freedom Ring, Pushcart Players.