Entertainment on the Edge

Spring Happenings in the Garden State

POP • ROCK • COUNTRY • GOSPEL • R&B

Friday • April 19 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Eric Roberson Live In Concert

Soul star Eric Roberson performs in the Victoria Theater just a few miles from his Rahway hometown. The two-time Grammy nominee is known for pushing the envelope in R&B and his voice has been described as “red velvet cake.”

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • April 20 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Gary Mullen and The Works One Night of Queen

Gary Mullen and his band stage a live recreation of Queen in concert. The international show makes a one-night stop in Newark in the intimate Victoria Theater.

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Wednesday • May 1 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

Brit Floyd World Tour 2019

The best Pink Floyd tribute band on the planet celebrates “40 Years of The Wall” in its most ambitious production ever. The show will also include iconic hits from Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here and Animals.

Friday • May 3 • 8:00 pm

Prudential Center

Cher Here We Go Again Tour

Cher’s performance in Mama Mia: Here We Go Again inspired her 2019 tour—the first to cross the country in five years. She’ll be performing her greatest hits along with ABBA songs from her new Dancing Queen album.

Courtesy of State Theatre

Friday • May 3 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

Kip Moore Room to Spare Acoustic Tour

The country star has knocked out a string of #1 hits, including “More Girls Like You” and “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Truck.” He is joined by special guest Muscadine Bloodline for this show.

 

Courtesy of Kean Stage

Saturday • May 4 • 7:30 pm

Kean Stage

Jon Secada Live In Concert

The Cuban-American singer-songwriter has been charming audiences for more than 25 years with soulful hits including “Bella” and “Too Late Too Soon.” Secada won a Best Latin Album Grammy in 1992 and was nominated for Best New Artist. He won a Latin Grammy for Best Traditional Album in 2017.

Courtesy of The State Theatre

Saturday • May 11 • 5:00 pm

Prudential Center

Gospelfest A Tribute to Aretha Franklin

McDonald’s Gospelfest comes to The Rock with a message of peace, joy and love—featuring the music of the late Aretha Franklin.

Saturday • May 11 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC

Lou Maresca Live At the Fillmore

Maresca’s tribute band recreates the energy of the Allman Brothers legendary live concerts. They have performed on the same bill as Lynyrd Skynrd, Molly Hatchet and Marshall Tucker.

Wednesday • May 29 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

Gary Puckett, The Cowsills, The Turtles & Friends The Happy Together Tour

Legendary rockers from the 60s and 70s come together for an unforgettable evening. Also on the bill are Chuck Negron (Three Dog Night), The Buckinghams and The Classics.

Courtesy of the Prudential Center

Wednesday • June 5 • 7:00 pm

Prudential Center

Twenty One Pilots The Bandito Tour

The Grammy-winning duo of Josh Dun and Tyler Joseph take the stage in support of their new album, Trench.

 

 

Courtesy of the Prudential Center

Sunday • June 16 • 7:00 pm

Prudential Center

Wisin y Yandel Como Antes Tour

The legendary Latino urban music duo visits The Rock in support of their new album The Big Leagues.

CLASSICAL

Courtesy of NJPAC

Thursday • April 25 • 1:30 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Xian Conducts Mozart

Xian Zhang leads the NJSO in an afternoon featuring Mozart’s Concerto No. 23, featuring Simone Dinnerstein on piano. Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 and Walton’s Suite No. 2 from Façade are also part of the program.

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Sunday • May 5 3:00 pm

NJPAC

Bell, Denk & Isserlis Live In Concert

Violinist Joshua Bell, pianist Jeremy Denk and cellist Steven Isserlis team up for an afternoon performance that includes Mendelssohn’s groundbreaking Piano Trio No. 1. The three virtuosos won critical acclaim for the 2016 album For the Love of Brahms.

Thursday • May 16 • 1:30 pm

Saturday • May 18 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Sunday • May 19 • 3:00 pm

State Theatre

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Art of the Double Concerto

Xian Zhang conducts a program featuring violinists Eric Wyrick and Annelle Gregory. The performances are highlighted by Bach’s riveting Concerto for Two Violins.

Sunday • May 19 • 3:00 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Youth Symphony Carmina Burana

The NJYS celebrates its 40th anniversary season with Carl Orff’s masterpiece for chorus and orchestra. Nearly 500 talented young people will perform.

JAZZED

Photo by Andreas Lawen

Saturday • May 4 7:30 pm

NJPAC

The Yellowjackets Live In Concert

The masters of jazz fusion have been making music going on four decades, racking up Grammy nominations and enchanting millions of fans. YJ vets Russell Ferrante, William Kennedy and Bob Mintzer lead the group into the Victoria Theater.

FOR THE KIDS

Courtesy of The State Theatre

Saturday • May 11 10:00 am, 12:30 & 3:00 pm

State Theatre

Puppet Theatre of Scotland The Man Who Planted Trees

An inspiring tale of a shepherd who transforms a wasteland into a forest one acorn at a time. The 3:00 show is a relaxed, autism-friendly performance.

 

Saturday • May 11 2:00 & 3:30 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra The Sound of Stories

The NJSO presents an enchanting children’s program built around music’s most-loved stories, including Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet and Harry Potter.

Saturday • May 18 • 7:00 pm

UCPAC

Animaniacs Live In Concert

Randy Rogel and Rob Paulsen are joined by a full orchestra as they perform songs from the beloved TV show of the 1990s.

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre

Tuesday • May 21 3:00 & 6:00 pm

State Theatre

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood King for a Day!

The top-rated PBS children’s series goes live with a stage show that invites young audience members on board the trolley to the Neighborhood of Make Believe.

 

Upper Case Editorial

Friday • May 31 • 7:00 pm

NJPAC

George Street Playhouse The Magic Treehouse: Showtime with Shakespeare

Jack and Annie are transported back to Elizabethan England and meet the bard himself in this hip-hop musical based on the work of Mary Pope Osborne.

 

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • June 1 • 2:00 & 7:30 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

The NJSO performs the iconic score of this Potter classic, which is projected on the big screen at Prudential Hall. Joshua Gerson of the New York Philharmonic conducts.

Courtesy of The State Theatre

Thursday • June 13 • 6:30 pm

State Theatre

Jojo Siwa The D.R.E.A.M. Tour

Nickelodeon star Jojo Siwa embarks on her first live tour. Her platinum single “Boomerang” has had more than 700 million views on YouTube.

SONG AND DANCE

Friday • May 10 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

American Repertory Ballet Beauty and the Beast

Choreographer Kirk Peterson presents a new ballet set to a score by Tchaikovsky.

 

Friday • May 10 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • May 11 • 8:00 pm Sunday • May 12 • 3:00 pm

NJPAC

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Ailey Ascending: The 60th Anniversary

A very special program features the New Jersey premiere of Lazarus, inspired by the life of Alvin Ailey, as well as Revelations and Timeless Ailey—composed of excerpts from rarely seen gems.

Friday • June 14 • 7:00 pm

NJPAC

Jersey Moves Emerging Choreographers

NJPAC hosts the fifth annual contemporary dance showcase by young Garden State choreographers. Each is mentored by a leader in the world of modern dance.

LAUGHS

Photo by Lee Stranahan

Friday • April 25 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Jay Leno Live On Stage

Tonight Show host Jay Leno explores his 40-plus years as a comic legend as part of NJPAC’s Speaker Series.

 

 

Photo by Tom Villegas

Saturday • June 15 • 6:00 & 9:30 pm

NJPAC

Gabriel Iglesias Beyond the Fluffy World Tour

Comedy Central favorite Gabriel Iglesias is booked for two shows in Prudential Hall. The Hollywood Reporter recently included him on its list of Top 40 Comedy Players.

 

Editor’s Note: For more info on these listings log onto the following web sites:

Kean Stage • keanstage.com

State Theatre • stnj.org

NJPAC • njpac.org

Prudential Center • prucenter.com

Union County Performing Arts Center & Hamilton Stage • ucpac.org

 

Entertainment on the Edge

Headliners

Courtesy of Kean Stage

Sunday • February 10 • 3:00 pm

Kean Stage 

David Sanborn Quintet 

In Concert 

This six-time Grammy-winning saxophonist has assembled a stunning program of straight-ahead jazz tunes for his new quintet—featuring saxophone, trombone, keyboards, bass and drums. 

Courtesy of the Prudential Center

Saturday • February 23 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center 

Michael Bublé 

In Concert 

Michael Bublé comes to The Rock in support of his 8th major studio album, Love, a testament to the power of music and its healing potential—not just for the listener but for Bublé, too. 

 

Saturday • February 23 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

John Mellencamp 

The John Mellencamp Show 

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer’s 2019 tour coincides with the release of his latest album, and features classics such as “Jack and Diane” and “Hurts So Good.”

Saturday • March 2 • 7:00 pm 

State Theatre

Lloyd Price, Sonny Turner & Bill Haley’s Comets 

Brooklyn Paramount Reunion 

Hosted by the Duke of Doo Wop, Harry G, and DJ Radio’s Alan David Stein, this lineup of oldies legends also includes The Skyliners, Cleveland Stills & The Dubs, Gary Troxel & The Fleetwoods, Sonny Turner of The Platters and Jimmy Gallagher of The Passions. 

Photo by Eva Rinaldi

Saturday • March 2 • 8:00 pm

Prudential Center 

Elton John 

Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour Elton 

John’s three-year final Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour includes this stop at The Rock. His career achievements include more than 30 platinum and multi-platinum albums, over 50 Top 40 hits, and record sales north of 300 million.

Sunday • March 3 • 2:00 & 7:00 pm 

State Theatre

RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles 

In celebration of the anniversary of the release of Abbey Road, RAIN brings the group’s greatest hits in a note-for-note theatrical event billed as the next best thing to seeing the Fab Four live. 

Saturday • March 9 • 7:00 pm 

UCPAC Muddfest 2019 

Hard rockers Puddle of Mudd headline an electric show featuring Saliva, Trapt, Saving Abel, and Tantric. 

Saturday • March 9 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

David Bowie Alumni 

A Bowie Celebration Celebrate the music of David Bowie with alumni musicians of David Bowie’s bands from across the decades, including his longest-standing member Mike Garson, along with Earl Slick, Gerry Leonard and Carmine Rojas. The concert features an unforgettable and critically acclaimed evening of Bowie songs with an ever-rotating mix of hits and deep cuts. 

Courtesy of State Theatre of New Jersey

Wednesday • March 13 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Johnny Mathis 

The Voice of Romance Tour 

Johnny Mathis has recorded more than 70 albums and sold millions of records worldwide. He returns to New Brunswick to perform his greatest hits, including “Chances Are,” “It’s Not For Me To Say,” and “Misty.” 

Courtesy of the Prudential Center

Wednesday • March 13 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center 

Fleetwood Mac In Concert 

The iconic band’s 2019 tour features Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie, along with newcomers Mike Campbell and Neil Finn. Fleetwood Mac has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. 

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Thursday • March 14 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Joe Bonamassa In Concert 

Grammy-nominated blues-rock guitar icon Joe Bonamassa is touring in support of his new studio album, Redemption. Hailed worldwide as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation, Bonamassa has redefined the blues-rock genre and brought it into the mainstream. 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Friday • March 15 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Art Garfunkel In Concert 

Art Garfunkel has eight Grammys and a Lifetime Achievement Award to his credit, spanning his partnership with Paul Simon, a long solo career and a Golden Globe-winning turn as a dramatic actor. His show includes iconic hits like “Sound of Silence,” “Scarborough Fair” and “Mrs. Robinson.”

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • March 16 • 7:30 pm 

NJPAC 

Linda Eder 

American Song Since her 12-week victory streak on Star Search, Linda Eder has developed into one of the most powerful and versatile voices of her generation, with a diverse repertoire that spans musical theater, American standards, pop, country, jazz and more. 

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Saturday • March 17 • 3:00 pm 

State Theatre

Sir James Galway In Concert 

The living legend of the flute, Sir James Galway, returns to the State Theatre New Jersey with renowned flutist Lady Jeanne Galway and pianist Michael McHale. Galway’s illustrious career includes over 30 million album sales and passionate work in music education.

Courtesy of Kean Stage

Saturday • March 23 • 7:30 pm 

Kean Stage

Patina Miller In Concert

Miller earned a Tony nomination for her 2011 Broadway debut in Sister Act and later won a Tony for her role in Pippin. She made her feature film debut in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay and had a featured role in Madam Secretary. 

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Sunday • March 24 • 7:30 pm 

State Theatre

Gladys Knight In Concert 

Seven-time Grammy winner Gladys Knight performs her iconic hits, including “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” and “Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me.” She has 11 #1 R&B singles to her credit and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame along with her group, The Pips. 

 

Sunday • March 24 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center 

TobyMac Hits Deep Tour 

The leading light in Christian hip hop comes to Newark with a show featuring music from his first new collection in three years. After earning acclaim as a member of DC Talk in the 1980s, TobyMac embarked on a solo career that has produced seven Grammy awards. 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Tuesday • March 26 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Indigo Girls In Concert

With over 14 million records sold, the folk rock duo of Amy Ray and Emily Saliers is known for its award-winning albums and social activism. They met in elementary school, began performing in high school and won a Grammy in 1990. 

 

Friday • March 29 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC 

Billy Cox, Joe Satriani & Johnny Lang Experience Hendrix Tour 

Jimi Hendrix called his stage performance his Electric Church. Experience Hendrix captures this spirit thanks to virtuoso guitarists like Joe Satriani and Johnny Lang and former Experience bandmate Billy Cox. 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • March 30 6:00 & 8:30 pm 

NJPAC

Mandy Gonzalez Fearless! 

Mandy Gonzalez, aka Angelica in the smash hit Hamilton, makes her Chase Room debut. Gonzalez performs powerful songs by contemporary composers like Lin-Manuel Miranda and Tom Kitt, as well as a stirring reinterpretation of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run.” 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Friday • April 12 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC 

Chick Corea Trilogy In Concert 

Keyboardist Chick Corea, bassist Christian McBride and drummer Brian Blade gather to form this stellar trio, which earned two Grammys for the 2014 three-CD set Trilogy, a live recording that combined original compositions with standards like “The Song is You,” “How Deep is the Ocean?” and “My Foolish Heart.” Pianist Joey Alexander opens as special guest. 

Saturday • April 13 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Kashmir The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute 

Kashmir, The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute, transports audiences back to the glory days of one of the most iconic rock units of all time, hitting every stop and every classic Zeppelin hit along the way. Created by acclaimed vocalist Jean Violet in 2000, Kashmir has grown from the streets of New York into one of the world’s top Led Zeppelin tribute bands. 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Monday • April 15 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Chicago In Concert 

Did you know that Chicago was the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six consecutive decades? The group’s hits include “25 or 6 to 4,” “Saturday In The Park,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” and “Make Me Smile.” 

Saturday • April 27 • 2:00 & 7:30 pm 

NJPAC

 Zakir Hussain Masters of Percussion 

Grammy-winning tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain is regarded as one of the world’s greatest percussionists. He returns to Newark’s Victoria Theater with a handpicked ensemble of master musicians and dancers. Throughout his career, Hussain has elevated the status of the tabla—not only throughout India but with world music fans around the globe.  

 

Song, Dance & Drama

 

January 31 to March 3 

Paper Mill Playhouse 

My Very Own British Invasion

A fable of young love set against the backdrop of the exploding 1960s music scene—when England launched the little dust-up that became known as The British Invasion. Based on the experiences of Peter Noone, who was just a teenager willing to sacrifice international stardom for the sake of the girl he loves, the show features more than two dozen chart-topping hits from all the best British bands of the era. Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell choreographs and directs.

Saturday • February 9 • 7:00 pm 

UCPAC 

Ain’t Misbehavin’ 

The free concert version of the award-winning musical revue, Ain’t Misbehavin’, is presented on the UCPAC Main Stage to kick off a month-long celebration featuring programming honoring Black History Month. Ain’t Misbehavin’ pays tribute to the Harlem Renaissance, an era of growing creativity, cultural awareness, and pride. 

Courtesy of Kean Stage

Saturday • February 16 • 7:30 pm 

Kean Stage 

Meredith Baxter & Michael Gross Love Letters 

The Family Ties co-stars are together again, this time in A.R. Gurney’s Love Letters. This Pulitzer-nominated play is a tender, tragi-comic and nuanced examination of the shared nostalgia, missed opportunities, and the deep closeness of two lifelong, complicated friends. 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • February 16 3:00 & 7:00 pm 

NJPAC 

Maurice Hines Tappin’ Thru Life 

Broadway legend Maurice Hines, accompanied by The DIVA Jazz Orchestra, revisits stopping points along his career in a song-and-dance celebration that pays tribute to his brother, Gregory Hines, and other performers who inspired him—from Frank Sinatra to Lena Horne. Hines is backed by his tap protégés, The Manzari Brothers. 

February 22 to March 2 

Kean Stage 

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Lunatic lovers, nefarious fairies, atrocious artistes and rambunctious royals star in Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy.

Courtesy of NJPAC

Friday • March 1 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC 

Snoop Dogg and Tamar Braxton Redemption of a Dogg 

Award-winning writer, director and producer Je’Caryous Johnson comes to NJPAC with his new stage play, Redemption of a Dogg, starring hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg and Tamar Braxton of Braxton Family Values. Redemption of a Dogg, the follow-up to the popular stage production, Set It Off, is set to a soundtrack of over 25 years of Snoop’s greatest hits.

 

Saturday • March 2 • 7:30 pm 

NJPAC 

Rennie Harris/Puremovement Lifted 

Rennie Harris and his Puremovement hip-hop/street dance company have set their latest work, Lifted, to house and gospel music, featuring a live choir. The story is loosely inspired by Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist. 

Courtesy of Kean Stage

Saturday • March 16 • 7:30 pm 

Kean Stage

Murphy’s Celtic Legacy 

This invigorating performance of traditional Irish dance—with dark cinematic undertones—is an inspiring tale of courage and loss created by Chris Hannon, a former lead in Lord of the Dance.

Saturday • March 16 • 2:00 & 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Russian National Ballet Swan Lake 

The Russian National Ballet brings the world’s most beloved program to life: the story of a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse. This performance features choreography by Petipa and an unforgettable score by Tchaikovsky. 

April 2 to 4 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Rent

The 20th Anniversary Tour 

In the 1990s, Rent changed the landscape of American theatre. Jonathan Larson’s Tony- and Pulitzer-winning musical—a re-imagining of Puccini’s La Bohème— continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. 

April 4 to May 5

Paper Mill Playhouse 

Benny & Joon 

A New Musical Based on the 1993 film starring Johnny Depp and Mary Stuart Masterson, this new musical is a smart, funny, tender-hearted celebration of love—between children and parents, romantic partners, friends and siblings— and embraces a difficult subject with warmth, honesty and wit. 

Saturday • April 6 • 7:00 pm 

NJPAC 

Carolyn Dorfman Dance Jersey Moves! 

The stunning dancers of New Jersey-based choreographer Carolyn Dorfman’s multi-ethnic company are known for high-energy, technically demanding dance and powerful storytelling—connecting life and dance in bold, athletic and dramatic terms, and taking audiences on intellectual and emotional journeys that illuminate and celebrate the human experience.  

Thursday • April 11 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Live On Stage 

The Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company, one of the most innovative and powerful forces in the dance-theater world, makes its State Theatre debut, blending visual imagery and a stylistic approach to movement. The company’s program will include the dance piece, A Letter to My Nephew, accompanied by a score by composer Nick Hallett, performed by baritone Matthew Gamble. 

 

Family Friendly

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • February 16 • 3:00 pm 

NJPAC 

Darci Lynne & Friends 

Darci Lynne is accompanied by her musical friends, including a diva-esque rabbit (Petunia), a shy and soulful mouse (Oscar), and a sarcastic old woman (Edna). Singing through her friends helped the young entertainer find a voice inside that she didn’t know she had, and helped her overcome a lifelong struggle with shyness. Lynne was the winner of Season 12 of America’s Got Talent. 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Monday • February 18 10:00, 12:30 & 3:00 pm 

State Theatre

Jack Hanna Into the Wild Live 

America’s most beloved animal expert, Jack Hanna, brings his Emmy-winning television series to the stage, featuring some of the world’s most spectacular animals. Jack also shares humorous stories and amazing exclusive footage from his worldwide adventures. 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Friday • March 22 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • March 23 • 2:00 & 8:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Finding Neverland 

Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters, Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. The magic of Barrie’s classic tale springs to life in this heartwarming theatrical event. 

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Saturday • March 30 3:00 & 5:00 pm 

State Theatre

B: The Underwater Bubble Show 

The wondrous underwater world of Bubblelandia and all its beautiful sea creatures come to life in this imaginary journey through the deep blue sea. Inspired by childhood favorites like Alice in Wonderland, The Little Mermaid, and Peter Pan, B—The Underwater Bubble Show is a lavish musical production featuring dancers and acrobats, original music, and fantastic stage effects including lasers, flying foam and soap bubbles to create a dreamlike underwater atmosphere. 

Saturday • April 13 • 11:00 am

NJPAC 

Mermaid Theatre Rainbow Fish 

The one-of-a-kind, puppet-filled adaptation of the popular book by Marcus Pfister is an NJPAC favorite. Mermaid Theatre is known internationally for its delightful stage adaptations of beloved children’s literature. The company employs innovative puppetry, striking scenic effects, evocative original music, and gentle storytelling that stimulates young minds. 

Saturday • April 13 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Sunday • April 14 • 3:00 pm 

State Theatre

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Mary Poppins in Concert 

This family-friendly, symphonic cinema event features the Oscar-winning classic Disney film unfolding on the big screen with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra performing the charming and delightful musical score. 

April 26 to April 28 

State Theatre 

Sesame Street Live Make Your Magic 

When magician Justin visits Sesame Street to put on a magic show for the whole neighborhood, Elmo wants to be part of the big event. But there’s one problem…he doesn’t know how to do magic. Elmo learns that you can do anything you set your mind to if you just keep trying. 

April 26 to May 4 

NJPAC 

Shen Yun

The world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company returns to Newark with its latest epic production. Through the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends, modern heroic tales, and treasured ethnic traditions—taking audiences on a stunning, immersive journey through 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture.

 

Funny You Should Say That

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • February 16 • 7:00 pm

NJPAC 

Russell Peters Deported World Tour 

Russell Peters leaves no cultural stereotype unturned in his Deported World Tour. An early YouTube sensation, Peters was recently included in Rolling Stone’s 50 Best Comedians of All Time.

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • February 23 • 7:30 pm 

NJPAC

Tom Papa Live On Stage 

New Jersey’s own Tom Papa is a true quadruple-threat. He excels as a stand-up comedian, comedy writer, voiceover specialist and dramatic actor. Make that quintuple-threat…he recently released his first book, Your Dad Stole My Rake: And Other Family Dilemmas. 

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Thursday • March 7 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Lewis Black The Joke’s On Us Tour 

Lewis Black returns to New Brunswick with a new show, ripping subject matter from the headlines and ratcheting up his anger to a fever pitch. Following his star turn on The Daily Show, Black has won Grammys for two of his eight comedy albums, and authored three bestselling books. 

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Saturday • March 9 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Ryan Hamilton Live on Stage Rubber-faced 

Ryan Hamilton, one of the country’s fastest-rising entertainers, makes his NJPAC debut after opening for Jerry Seinfeld at Carnegie Hall. His sarcastic observational humor covers everything from skydiving to the challenges of being single. 

 

Wednesday • March 20 • 7:30 pm 

Prudential Center 

Impractical Jokers

The Cranjis McBasketball World Comedy Tour The Tenderloins—Joe Gatto, James Murray, Brian Quinn and Sal Vulcano—star in TruTV’s hit series, Impractical Jokers. They bring their bag of public pranks to The Rock for an outrageous multimedia stage show. 

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

Friday • April 12 • 7:00 pm 

NJPAC 

Paula Poundstone Live On Stage 

Paula Poundstone’s smart, observational humor and spontaneous wit have made her a favorite of NPR audiences and stand-up comedy fans. She also appears on Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone, a weekly podcast co-hosted by Adam Felber—her friend and fellow panelist on Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me! She recently authored her second book, The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness, which debuted at #1 on the Amazon Humor bestseller list.  

 

Classical Performances

 

Courtesy of the State Theatre of New Jersey

Sunday • February 24 • 3:00 pm 

State Theatre

Czech National Symphony Orchestra 100 Years of Leonard Bernstein 

The Czech National Symphony Orchestra, with Grammy-winning Mezzo-Soprano Isabel Leonard—and led by conductor John Mauceri—celebrates the legacy of Leonard Bernstein with a program entitled 100 Years of Leonard Bernstein. 

 

Saturday • March 2 • 8:00 pm

Sunday • March 3 • 3:00 pm 

NJPAC 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra In Concert 

Hans Graf conducts and Van Cliburn finalist Jeffrey Kahane is featured on piano in a program that includes works by Ravel, and Shostakovich, as well as Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4. 

Thursday • March 7 • 1:30 pm Friday • March 8 • 8:00 pm 

Sunday • March 10 • 3:00 pm 

State Theater 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra In Concert 

Jun Markl conducts and Ingrid Fliter is featured on piano in a program that includes works by Mendelssohn and Britten, as well as La Mer and Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun by Debussy. 

Friday • March 15 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Philadelphia Orchestra In Concert 

Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts the Philadelphians in Schubert’s great and noble Symphony No. 9, and young pianist Jan Lisiecki plays Mendelssohn. The Philadelphia Orchestra was cultivated under Leopold Stokowski, Eugene Ormandy, Riccardo Muti and now Yannick Nézet-Séguin. The program also includes Haydn’s overture to his opera L’Isola Disabitata. 

Saturday • March 23 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra In Concert 

The incomparable Xian Zhang conducts and Johannes Moser is featured on cello in a program that includes works by Schumann and Brahms, as well as Andrew Norman, Music America’s Composer of the Year in 2017. Norman’s Cello Concerto is making its East Coast premiere.

Entertainment on the Edge

In town as the seasons change…

Cameron Yee

February 16

Jeff Dunham: Passively Aggressively

Prudential Center 7:00 pm

Comedy superstar Jeff Dunham brings his cast of ill-behaved characters to The Rock for his Passively Aggressively tour. Fan favorites, such as Bubba J and Peanut, consider what a new member to their dysfunctional family could mean.

 

February 16-24

Pippin

Kean Stage

(See web site for showtimes)

Pippin’s Leading Player tells the powerful story of his travels with a troupe of talented actors. Music, song, and dance weave a narrative of selfishness, deceitful first impressions, and the power of redemption.

 

February 17-18

Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus Live!

NJPAC/Victoria Theater

(See web site for showtimes)

For more than two decades, John Gray’s hilarious Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus guide to the battle of the sexes has remained an audience favorite.

 

Joe Satriani

February 18

G3 2018: Joe Satriani, John Pertucci, Phil Collen

NJPAC 7:00 pm

The G3 2018 tour features Satriani and fellow six-string legends Pertucci and Collen in an action-packed, live-wire celebration of guitar wizardry.

 

February 18

Hot Latin Nights with the Mambo Kings:

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

State Theater 3:00 pm

Bringing some serious heat, The Mambo Kings celebrate the sizzling, jazz-infused music of Latin America and the United States.

 

Amazon.com

February 23

Art of Rap: The History of Hip Hop Tour with Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, EPMD, N.O.R.E., Big Daddy Kane, Onyx, MR. Cheeks, Brand Nubian, and Roxanne Shanté

NJPAC 8:00 pm

This electrifying concert features some of the most influential Hip Hop artists of today—and back in the day. It’s a celebration of the far reach of rap and the amazing stories of its unforgettable artists.

 

February 24

Jon Secada

UCPAC Main Stage 8:00 pm

Grammy Award-winning artist and songwriter Jon Secada, acclaimed for his romantic sound, takes the Main Stage in Rahway with his soulful and melodic voice.

 

February 24

Brahms’ First Symphony: New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

State Theater 8:00 pm

Rune Bergmann conducts mezzo-soprano Marianne Beate Kielland and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra in Brahms’ First Symphony, a masterwork for all time.

 

The Duprees

March 3

Golden Oldies Spectacular

State Theater 7:00 pm

An evening of beloved oldies in New Brunswick! Featuring classics like The Duprees’

“You Belong to Me,” The Marcels’ “Blue Moon” and many more.

 

March 4

Staatskapelle Weimar

State Theater 3:00 pm

Founded in 1491, the Staatskapelle Weimar is one of the oldest and most illustrious orchestras in the world. It’s the organization’s first North American tour to present three of Beethoven’s greatest works.

 

Thefallofitall

March 9

Colin Quinn: One in Every Crowd

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 7:00 pm

Quinn’s rough-hewn urban humor has entertained MTV, Saturday Night Live, Comedy Central, and Broadway audiences. He comes to Newark with an entirely new show.

 

 

PeterPan23

March 9

Kid Rock: Greatest Show on Earth Tour 2018

Prudential Center 7:30 pm

Kid Rock brings his The Greatest Show on Earth Tour to The Rock—to promote his new album, Sweet Southern Sugar

 

March 11

Zhang Conducts Tchaikovsky: New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

State Theater 3:00 pm

Acclaimed conductor Xian Zhang conducts the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra in Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty and Francesca da Rimini, Danielpour’s Carnival of the Ancients, and Haydn’s Sinfonia Concertante.

 

NJPAC

March 16

Los Tigres del Norte

NJPAC 8:00 pm

One of the most influential Latin music groups of all time, Grammy-Award winning Los Tigres perform high-energy norteño music that celebrates the vibrant culture of Mexico.

State Theater

March 17

Dublin Irish Dance

State Theater 8:00 pm

Stepping Out offers an extravaganza of sights and sounds from the Dublin Irish Dance company. The troupe of accomplished step-dancers and musicians explores Celtic history and culture.

State Theater

March 18

Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell

NJPAC 3:00 pm

Known as one of the greatest American violinists of his time, Bell has recently become one of the world’s most accomplished conductors. He now leads the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.

 

FOR the KIDS

February 9-10

Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella 

State Theater

(See web site for show times)

February 10

Beauty & the Beast

Kean Stage 3:00 pm

February 10

Year of the Dog: The Nai Chen Dance Company

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 2:00 & 7:00 pm

February 19

Mr. Popper’s Penguins

State Theater 10:00 am, 12:30 & 3:00 pm

March 3

Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 2:00 pm

March 3

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in Concert

NJPAC 2:00 & 7:30 pm

March 15-18

Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes

Prudential Center

(See web site for showtimes)

March 17

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 1:00 & 5:00 pm

YouTube

March 18–19

Mummenschanz

State Theater 7:00 pm

 

Sibuachu

March 20

Judas Priest

Prudential Center 7:00 pm

One of heavy metal’s iconic acts hits the road to support the new Firepower album. The lineup features Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Richie Faulkner, Ian Hill, and Scott Travis.

Sibuachu

March 21

Demi Lovato & DJ Khaled

Prudential Center 7:30 pm

Grammy-nominated, multiplatinum singer Demi Lovato brings her tour to North America timed with the release of her critically acclaimed album Tell Me You Love Me. She is joined by special guest DJ Khaled.

March 23

National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba

NJPAC 8:00 pm

Conducted by Enrique Pérez-Mesa—with guest pianist Yekwon Sunwoo—the orchestra makes its NJPAC debut with a Latin-flavored and dance-inspired program.

March 23-25

Motown the Musical

State Theater (Check web site for showtimes)

Celebrate the music that transformed America and the story of Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to heavyweight music mogul.

March 29-April 29

The Sting: A New Musical

Paper Mill Playhouse (Check web site for showtimes) 

Based on the 1973 Academy Award-winning film, The Sting, this musical tells the story of two con men who plot to sabotage a corrupt racketeer in Depression Era Chicago.

April 4-7

Comedy of (Jersey) Errors

Kean Stage (Check web site for showtimes)

This version of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors is filled with madcap characters, adventure, and everything “Jersey Shore,” as long-lost twins cross paths on the Garden State’s beloved boardwalk.

Louise Palanker

April 5-6

Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 8:00 pm

Spend an evening with Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Frankie Valli, performing classic Four Seasons hits like “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” and many more.

Liliane Callegari

April 6

Lorde

Prudential Center 7:00 pm

Grammy Award-winning artist Lorde takes the stage with special guests Run the Jewels and Mitski to support her new album UPROXX.

April 7

The Sleeping Beauty: Russian National Ballet

NJPAC 8:00 pm

This sumptuous company brings a traditional staging of the classic fairy tale to NJPAC with stunning precision and beauty.

World Economic Forum

April 8

The Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma

NJPAC 3:00 pm

Cellist Yo-Yo Ma returns to Newark with his ensemble to celebrate music that crisscrosses centuries, continents and cultures. Last performed in 1998, this program embraces the artistic traditions of more than 20 countries.

Dwight McCann

April 13

Johnny Mathis

NJPAC 8:00 pm

Music legend Johnny Mathis returns to NJPAC for another pitch-perfect performance of his greatest hits.

April 14

P!nk: Beautiful Trauma World Tour 2018

Prudential Center 8:00 pm

International pop icon P!nk brings her high-energy and imaginative performance to the Prudential Center to promote her highly anticipated seventh album, Beautiful Trauma.

Upper Case Editorial

April 15

Jason Alexander: The Broadway Boy

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

State Theater 3:00 pm

Long before becoming inhabiting the beloved comic character George Costanza on Seinfeld, Alexander made his career as a Tony-winning Broadway song-and-dance man. Alexander returns to his roots for an afternoon of music, laughter, and fun.

Editor’s Note: This overview of local entertainment, curated by Rachel Stewart, is just a taste of our area’s overall performance picture. For full listings, log onto the following web sites:
Kean Stage • keanstage.com
Paper Mill Playhouse • papermill.org
State Theater • stnj.org
NJPAC • njpac.org
Prudential Center • prucenter.com
Union Country Performing Arts Center & Hamilton Stage • ucpac.org
Entertainment on the Edge

Things to do this Spring

March 29 to April 29

The Sting: A New Musical

Paper Mill Playhouse

(See web site for showtimes)

The con is on with this tale of two hustlers, Henry Gondorff and Johnny Hooker, in a musical inspired by the Oscar-winning 1973 film.

 

April 12

Ars Vitalis

Kean Stage 7:30 pm

Celebrate the art of music composition in this tribute to the life and work of Frank Ezra Levy, one of New Jersey’s most prolific and gifted composers.

 

Courtesy of UCPAC

April 14

Arrested Development

UCPAC 8:00 pm

The beloved hip-hop group brings its high-energy act to the Union County Performing Arts Center.

 

Moscow Ballet/Alexander Daev

April 14

Moscow Festival Ballet: Giselle

State Theatre 2:00 & 8:00 pm

The acclaimed ballet company performs one of the most romantic ballets, with choreography by the legendary Marius Pepita.

 

 

April 15

Let It Be

NJPAC 3:00 pm

It’s the reunion concert that never was, a time capsule back to John Lennon’s would-be 40th birthday that celebrates the music of the Beatles.

 

April 15

I Am Tango

UCPAC 6:00 pm

Tango Lovers, the award-winning dance company, tell the story of tango’s evolution through different eras and cultures.

 

Photo by Kasra Ganjavi for Piedmonstyle

April 19

George Thorogood & The Destroyers

State Theatre 8:00 pm

Boogie blues legend George Thorogood and his longtime band roll into New Brunswick with hits like “Bad to the Bone,” “Move It On Over” and “Who Do You Love.”

 

 

 

April 21

Gabriel Iglesias

NJPAC 7:00 & 10:00 pm

The popular comedian comes to NJPAC’s Prudential Hall with two performances on his One Show Fits All tour.

 

Viacom 18 Motion Pictures

April 22

Margarita with a Straw

Kean Stage 3:00 pm

Margarita with a Straw tells the coming of age story of a Punjabi teen with cerebral palsy.

 

Photo by Jyle Dupis

April 26

Ruben Studdard

State Theatre 8:00 pm

The Season Two American Idol winner stars in Always & Forever: An Evening of Luther Vandross.

 

Shen Yun Performing Arts

April 27 to May 3

Shen Yun

NJPAC

(See web site for showtimes)

The world’s premier Chinese dance and music company is in Newark for a week of performances.

 

Photo by Phil Konstantin

April 28

Brian Stokes Mitchell

Kean Stage 3:00 & 7:30 pm

Tony-winning song and dance man Brian Stokes Mitchell performs hit songs from his many Broadway shows and his upcoming album Plays with Music.

 

April 28

Dorthaan Kirk

NJPAC

New Jersey’s First Lady of Jazz is honored on her 80th birthday in the Victoria Theater by music legends Don Braden, Jimmy Heath, Steve Turre and Cassandra Wilson.

 

May 3

Worship Night In America

Prudential Center

Grammy winner Chris Tomlin headlines a show that includes Kim Walker Smith, Matt Maher, Christine D’Clario, Tauren Wells and Pat Barrett.

 

FOR THE KIDS

 

April 14

Journey to Oz

Kean Stage 11:00 am

This new adaptation of Frank Baum’s beloved tales set in the Land of Oz features audience involvement in sound effects and call and response with the onstage characters.

 

April 20

Wild Kratts Live

State Theatre 6:30 pm

Martin and Chris Kratt come to life in a high-energy, multimedia

adventure.

 

April 29

Charlotte’s Web

UCPAC 2:00 pm

Theatreworks performs the beloved E.B. White tale of a girl and her pig. The production is part of the Sensory Friendly Theatre program, featuring live shows adapted for children with autism and other sensory sensitivities.

 

May 4 & 5

The Wizard of Oz

State Theatre 2:00 & 7:00 pm

A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, starring Dorothy and Toto, along with the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion. There is no 2:00 pm performance on the 4th.

 

May 12

Panda-Monium

NJPAC 2:00 & 3:30 pm

The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra performs Music from the Animal Kingdom in a pair of family-friendly afternoon programs.

 

Universal Pictures

June 3

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

State Theatre 3:00 pm

Constantine Kitspooulos conducts the New Jersey State Orchestra in John Williams’s Oscar-winning score live during a screening of E.T.

 

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

May 4

The Piano Guys

NJPAC 8:00 pm

The YouTube sensations blend a wide range of iconic music, from Bach to Bruno Mars.

 

May 5

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

NJPAC 8:00 pm

Violinist Ning Feng is the main soloist and Dima Slobodeniouk conducts the NJSO in a program featuring Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto.

 

The Drama League

May 6

Patti Lupone

State Theatre 4:00 pm

Tony winner Patti Lupone takes the stage in Don’t Monkey with Broadway, her tribute to the unforgettable show tunes of the Great White Way.

 

 

Knight Foundation

May 11 to 13

Alvin Ailey American

Dance Theater

NJPAC

(See web site for showtimes)

The company’s annual stop in Newark features Revelations, the signature masterpiece that pays homage to the African-American experience.

 

Courtesy of NJPAC

May 12

Marin Mazzie & Jason Danieley

NJPAC 6:00 & 8:30 pm

The golden couple of Broadway performs beloved show tunes in the intimate setting of NJPAC’s Chase Room.

 

Motown

May 13

The Temptations & The Four Tops

State Theater 7:00 pm

Two of the greatest Motown acts join forces in New Brunswick for a live concert featuring all of their signature hits, from “My Girl” to “I Can’t Help Myself.”

 

May 18 & 19

The Original Misfits

Prudential Center

Glenn Danzig and Jerry Only reunite in their return to New Jersey, where it all started three decades ago for the legendary horror-punk-metal pioneers.

 

May 19

William Shatner

NJPAC 7:30 pm

William Shatner (aka James T. Kirk) takes the Prudential Hall stage following a screening of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn.

 

May 20

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

State Theatre 3:00 pm

Violinist Eric Wyrick is among the featured NJSO soloists in a performance of Bach’s complete Brandenbrg Concertos.

 

May 31 to July 1

Half Time

Paper Mill Playhouse

(See web site for showtimes)

From the director-choreographer of Kinky Boots comes the remarkable true story about a group of seniors who became hip-hop dancers for a big-time basketball team.

 

June 15

Happy Together

State Theatre 8:00 pm

An all-star constellation—including The Turtles, The Cowsills, and Gary Puckett & The Union Gap—performs beloved hits from the 1960s and 1970s.

 

Travis Shinn

June 15

Journey + Def Leppard

Prudential Center 7:00 pm

Don’t stop believing—both bands have created all-new shows for their 2018 tour, which stops in Newark on the 15th.

 

Editor’s Note: This overview of local entertainment, curated by Rachel Stewart, is just a taste of our area’s overall performance picture. For full listings, log onto the following web sites:
Kean Stage • keanstage.com
Paper Mill Playhouse • papermill.org
State Theatre • stnj.org
NJPAC • njpac.org
Prudential Center • prucenter.com
Union Country Performing Arts Center & Hamilton Stage • ucpac.org
Entertainment on the Edge

Friday • June 14 • 8:30 pm

Prudential Center Luis Miguel 2019 North American Tour

The winner of the Best 2018 Tour at both the Latin Grammys and American Music Awards, Luis Miguel has sold more than 100 million albums. He won his first Grammy as a teenager for a duet with Sheena Easton, becoming the youngest male Grammy winner at the age of 14.

 

Sunday • June 16 • 7:00 pm

Prudential Center Wisin Y Yandel Como Antes Tour

The iconic Latin duo is on its first U.S. Tour since 2013, which includes a spring stop at The Rock. To this day, they are the first Reggaeton artists to win a Grammy. Their 2018 album The Big Leagues has become a huge hit.

 

Saturday • June 29 • 9:00 pm

Newark Symphony Hall R&B Music Museum All White Dance Party

Dress in white and dance the night away to old-school jams from the 70s and 80s in support of the R&B Music Museum.

 

Tuesday • July 2 • 7:30 pm

Prudential Center New Kids On the Block The Mixtape Tour

The iconic boy band, now in their 40s, will be joined on stage by special guests Salt-N-Pepa, Tiffany, Debbie Gibson and Naughty By Nature. The group has been touring on and off for a decade after breaking up for 13 years, and was a hit last New Year’s Eve on Times Square.

 

Thursday • June 20 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre George Takei Where No Story Has Gone Before

The former Star Trek star invites his audience to join him on a personal journey that includes a Japanese internment camp, an iconic role on a legendary series, and a second career as a social media star and advocate for justice.

 

Friday • June 21 • 7:30 pm

NJPAC Iyanla Vanzant Acts of Faith Remix Tour

The Emmy-winning spiritual teacher and life coach brings her life-altering solo event to Prudential Hall in celebration of the 25th anniversary of her best-selling book, Acts of Faith.

 

Saturday • July 6 • 3:00 & 8:00 pm

UCPAC United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn Caribbean Cultural Extravaganza

The Hamilton Stage lights up with the sights and sounds of the islands to promote divergent cultures and social synergy. The events include folk songs, choral speeches, dramatic skits, story-telling, folk dancing, poems, steel drum music, stand-up comedy, arts & crafts and fashion. Each performance also includes an authentic Caribbean meal.

 

Saturday • July 13 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC Bring It! The Dance Battle Tour

Legendary coach Diana Williams of the popular Lifetime series Bring It! comes to Prudential Hall this summer with an eye-popping hip-hop majorette competition. And yes, the audience gets to vote for the winners.

 

Tuesday • July 16 • 8:00 pm

Prudential Center Electric Light Orchestra Live 2019

Jeff Lynne’s ELO comes to Newark with its legendary live show. The band’s chart-topping hits include “Livin’ Thing,” “Telephone Line,” “Xanadu” and “Don’t Bring Me Down.” ELO’s fusion of rock and classical music sold more than 50 million albums.

 

Saturday • July 20 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC Lance Bass Pop 2000 Tour

The former NSYNC star hosts a trip down memory lane with help from O-Town, Aaron Carter, Ryan Cabrera, Tyler Hilton, and Nitty Green and Riff.

 

Friday • August 2 • 7:30 pm

Saturday • August 3 • 1:30 & 7:30 pm

Paper Mill Playhouse New Voices of 2019 Learn Your Lessons Well

Summer Musical Theater Conservatory students are directed and choreographed by Paper Mill Playhouse’s professional artistic staff in this fully produced, original concert.

 

Saturday • August 10 • 7:30 pm

Sunday • August 11 • 7:30 pm

Prudential Center Sean Mendes 2019 Tour

Mendes was originally scheduled for one night at The Rock, but recently added a second date. The Canadian singer/model is an international sensation and last was included among Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People In the World.

 

Wednesday • August 14 7:30 pm

Prudential Center Kiss End of the Road

This is it, they claim. After 45 years of recording the iconic band is calling it a career and mounting one last tour. Kiss pioneered in the over-the-top hard rock stage show and has sold over 100 million records.

 

Tuesday • September 10 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre The Piano Guys Live On Stage

The YouTube sensations come to New Brunswick with an innovative mix of classical and pop music. All eight of their albums have topped the Billboard New Age chart.

 

Sunday • September 15 • 8:00 pm

Prudential Center Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour

The iconic boy band is on its biggest arena tour in more than a decade in support of their new 2019 album DNA. The record has already spun off three hits, including “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.”

 

Sunday • September 29 3:00 pm

NJPAC Arlo Guthrie Alice’s Restaurant Tour

The celebrated folk singer recorded the 18-minute Alice’s Restaurant in 1967 at the age of 19. The performance opens with Arlo’s daughter, singer-songwriter Sarah Lee Guthrie.

 

For the Kids

 

May 29 to June 30

Paper Mill Playhouse Beauty and the Beast The Broadway Musical

A gorgeous production, based on the Academy Award–winning animated movie, featuring stunning costumes and sets, spectacular dance numbers, and, of course, a fairy-tale ending. Check website for dates and times.

 

Thursday • June 13 • 6:30 pm

State Theatre Wednesday • July 24 • 7:00 pm

Prudential Center JoJo Siwa D.R.E.A.M. Tour

The Nickelodeon and YouTube personality—and former Dance Moms star—makes two stops in our area on her 2018–19 tour.

 

September 6 to 21

UCPAC Into the Woods

Jared Milan stars in Stephen Sondheim’s popular musical, which intertwines Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault fairy tales. Check the UCPAC web site for dates and times.

 

Editor’s Note: For more info on these listings log onto the following web sites:

Kean Stage • keanstage.com

NJPAC • njpac.org

Newark Symphony Hall • newarksymphonyhall.org

Paper Mill Playhouse • papermill.org

Prudential Center • prucenter.com

State Theatre • stnj.org

Union County Performing Arts Center & Hamilton Stage • ucpac.org

 

Entertainment on the Edge

Swinging Into Spring

January 30 to March 1 

Paper Mill Playhouse

(Check web site for show dates and times.) 

Unmasked The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber 

Unmasked is a new musical revue inspired by the recent autobiography of Andrew Lloyd Webber and featuring his most beloved songs and stories. 

 

February 21 – February 29

Kean Stage

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Kean Stage

Anna In the Tropics 

Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz wrote this play about a Cuban-America family awaiting an important visitor. 

 

 

NJPAC

Tuesday • February 25 7:00 pm

NJPAC

PHILADANCO! 

The electrifying dance company celebrates its 50th anniversary on the Victoria Theater stage. 

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

Saturday • March 14 2:00 & 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Russian National Ballet

The Sleeping Beauty 

All the way from Moscow, the RNB performs Tchaikovsky’s magical fairy tale.

 

Saturday • March 21 • 7:30 pm 

Kean Stage

Taylor 2 Dance Company Live On Stage 

Renowned choreographer Paul Taylor established “Taylor 2” in 1993. The company captures the athleticism, humor and range of emotions for which his work is known. 

NJPAC

Saturday • March 21 • 7:30 pm 

Sunday • March 22 • 3:00 pm 

NJPAC

Ballet Hispanico Carmen Maquia 

The timeless story of Carmen is interpreted through a unique fusion of ballet, paso doble, flamenco and contemporary dance. 

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

Tuesday • March 31 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Complexions

Contemporary Ballet Bach 25 and Star Dust 

Founded in 1994 by master choreographer Dwight Rhoden and the legendary Desmond Richardson, Complexions presents dance celebrations of the classical master and rock legend David Bowie. 

 

April 1 to April 26 

Paper Mill Playhouse

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Sister Act 

A feel-good musical based on the Hollywood hit, Sister Act earned five Tony nominations during its Broadway run. 

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

April 2-4 

State Theatre

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

The Play That Goes Wrong 

The State stages four performances of the Broadway hit that turns a murder mystery into a gut-busting comedy. 

 

NJPAC

April 23 to April 29 

NJPAC

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Shen Yun 

The world-famous classical Chinese music and dance company returns to NJPAC for eight spellbinding performances. 

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

Tuesday • April 28 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Diavolo Live On Stage 

The high-flying America’s Got Talent finalists have blended modern dance with acrobatics and gymnastics to create an awe-inspiring show.

POPULAR

State Theatre of New Jersey

Thursday • February 13 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Boyz II Men Live On Stage 

R&B icons Boyz II Men get a jump on Valentine’s weekend with a big show in New Brunswick. The group has sold more than 60 million albums. 

 

Prudential Center

Friday • February 14 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center

Bell Biv DeVoe & Friends A Night of Love 

Fantasia, Keyshia Cole, Monica and XSCAP3 join 1990s R&B icons Bell Biv DeVoe for an unforgettable Valentine’s Evening celebration. 

 

Prudential Center

Saturday • February 15 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center

Marc Anthony The Opus Tour 

Singer-actor-producer Marc Anthony brings his Opus Tour to Newark for a Saturday night spectacular. Anthony is a two-time Grammy winner and has sold more than 12 million albums worldwide. 

 

NJPAC

Sunday • February 16 • 7:00 pm 

NJPAC

Gregory Porter & Ledisi Live On Stage 

Gregory Porter, the Grammy-winning man in the Kangol hat, teams up with Selma star Ledisi for an evening of jazz in Prudential Hall. 

 

Prudential Center

Thursday • February 18 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center

Post Malone The Runaway Tour 

Post Malone has extended his Runaway Tour and will play The Rock this winter, along with Swae Lee and Tyla Yaweh. Malone’s blend of hip-hop, rap and rock has sold 60 million records. 

 

Prudential Center

Saturday • March 7 • 7:30 pm 

Sunday • March 8 • 7:30 pm 

Prudential Center

Celine Dion Courage World Tour 

Celine Dion takes the stage for two-weekend shows in her first U.S. tour in a decade. Dion has sold more than a quarter-billion albums in her 35-year career. 

 

NJPAC

Saturday • March 14 2:00 & 7:00 pm 

NJPAC

Valerie Simpson with Dave Koz Sugar Bar Comes to Newark 

Valerie Simpson and saxophonist Dave Koz team up to recreate the timeless ambiance of the NYC nightspot owned by Simpson and the late Nickolas Ashford (aka Ashford & Simpson).

 

NJPAC

Saturday • March 14 • 3:00 pm 

NJPAC

Michael Feinstein Shaken & Stirred 

Legendary pianist Michael Feinstein and vocalist Storm Large present an afternoon of intoxicating music from the Great American Songbook. 

 

MTV International

Monday • March 16 • 7:30 pm 

Prudential Center

Billie Eilish Where Do We Go? World Tour 

Teen sensation Billie Eilish’s debut album When We Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? absolutely blew up in 2019, producing four platinum singles. She is the first artist born in the 2000s to chart a #1 hit, with “Bad Guy.” 

 

Tuesday • March 17 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Celtic Women Celebration 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Tara McNeill on fiddle and Irish harp, and singers Mairéad Carlin, Éabha McMahon, and Megan Walsh. 

 

NJPAC

Friday • March 20 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Johnny Mathis Live On Stage 

Legendary hit-maker Johnny Mathis is joined on the Prudential Hall stage by special guest Gary Mule Deer. Chances are it’ll be a night to remember. 

 

Saturday • March 21 • 7:00 pm 

State Theatre 

Jay & The Americans Golden Oldies Spectacular 

Relive the 1960s with Jay, BJ Thomas, Lou Christie, Dennis Tufano of The Buckinghams, and 1919 Fruitgum Company. 

Sunday • March 22 • 6:30 pm 

Prudential Center

Omarion & Bow Wow The Millennium Tour 2020 

The two legendary artists are joined by Sammie, Pretty Ricky, Ying Yang Twins and Soulja Boy in a rap extravaganza at The Rock. 

 

Friday • April 3 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

The Beach Boys 12 Sides of Summer 

The iconic rock group has been on the road performing their hits for more than a half-century. Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals join the good vibrations on the Prudential Hall stage. 

 

Ernst Vikne

Wednesday • April 15 • 8:00 pm 

Prudential Center

Elton John The Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour 

Elton John sold out his 2019 shows in Newark and is returning for one more on his final world tour. His album sales are currently 300 million and counting.

FOR THE KIDS

February 27 – March 1 

Prudential Center

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Jurassic World Live Tour 

A jaw-dropping stage show featuring life-sized Jurassic Park dinosaurs lumbers into the Prudential Center for nine unforgettable performances. 

 

Saturday • March 7 10:00 am & 12:00 pm 

State Theatre

State Theatre of New Jersey

Princeton Percussion Ensemble Milk & Cookies 

The Princeton Symphony Orchestra Bravo Percussion Ensemble presents a fun, interactive, and educational program for the young ones. 

 

NJPAC

Sunday • March 8 • 4:00 pm 

NJPAC

National Dance Institute Voices of Change 

What could be more fun or inspiring than kids dancing for kids? Two hundred student dancers highlight a Sunday afternoon performance on the Victoria Theater stage.

 

NJPAC

Sunday • March 8 • 7:00 pm 

State Theatre

Tuesday • March 10 • 7:00 pm

NJPAC

MasterChef Junior Live On Stage 

The beloved cooking competition come to New Jersey in a show featuring some of the show’s all-time favorite contestants.

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

Sunday • March 15 11:00 am & 2:00 pm 

State Theatre

Dinosaur World Live 

This interactive show features lifelike dinosaurs including T-Rex, Triceratops and Segnosaurus. 

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

April 10–13 

State Theatre

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Sesame Street Live Let’s Party! 

It’s a street party at the State Theatre featuring Big Bird, Elmo, Cookie, Oscar, Abby and Grover. 

 

Recycled Percussion

Friday • April 24 • 7:00 pm 

NJPAC

Recycled Percussion 

The drummers of Recycled Percussion transform everyday objects into percussive instruments during a high-energy, family-friendly show. 

Laugh Out Loud

Prudential Center

Thursday • February 6 • 7:00 pm 

Prudential Center

Jeff Dunham The Seriously? Tour 

Jeff Dunham has found the sweet spot between stand-up and ventriloquism during a career that stretches back to his Broadway breakthrough in the 1980s. Dunham is bringing all his buddies to The Rock, including Walter, Peanut, Bubba J and Sweet Daddy Dee. 

 

NJPAC

Saturday • February 22 • 7:00 pm 

NJPAC

Yvonne Orji Lagos to Laurel Tour 

The star of HBO’s Insecure brings her hilarious take on faith and family to the Victoria Theater. 

 

Maz Jobrani

Friday • March 6 • 7:30 & 9:00 pm 

NJPAC

Maz Jobrani Live On Stage 

A Netflix and NPR favorite, Maz Jobrani brings his unique spin on the Iranian-American experience to Newark. Check out our Q&A with Maz on the edgemagonline.com “Interviews” tab. 

 

State Theatre of New Jersey

Thursday • March 12 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Jay Leno Live On Stage 

One of the all-time great stand-ups makes a stop in New Brunswick.

 

Friday • April 4 • 7:00 pm 

NJPAC

Kathleen Madigan 8 O’clock Happy Hour Tour 

The beloved stand-up presents an uncensored and no-holds-barred evening that begins an hour before 8 o’clock. 

 

NJPAC

Friday • April 17 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Rob Reiner This Is Spinal Tap 

Spinal Tap director, writer, and co-star Rob Reiner comes to NJPAC to celebrate the 35th anniversary of his groundbreaking mockumentary about the loudest band in England.

Classical

Saturday • February 15 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

Siberian State Symphony Orchestra 

Vladimir Lande conducts and Pavel Milyukov is featured on the violin in a special stop in New Jersey during an eight-week U.S. tour. 

 

Friday • February 21 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Beethoven, Paganini & Brahms Academy of St. Martin In the Fields 

Conductor/violinist Joshua Bell—a Prudential Hall favorite—will solo on Paganini’s heartwarming Violin Concerto No. 1. 

 

Thursday • Februrary 27 • 1:30 pm 

Sunday • March 1 • 3:00 pm 

NJPAC

Saturday • February 29 • 8:00 pm 

State Theatre

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra 

Simone Porter performs on violin and Christoph Konig conducts the NJSO performing the works of Mozart, Bruckner, and Mendelssohn.

Saturday • April 4 • 8:00 pm 

NJPAC

Sunday • April 5 • 3:00 pm 

State Theatre

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony 

Conductor Henrik Nansi makes his NJSO debut after wowing fans at the Metropolitan Opera last season. 

 

Saturday • April 18 • 7:30 pm 

Kean Stage

Black Violin Impossible Tour 

Though classically trained, Kev Marcus and Wil B. aren’t strictly a classical act. They bring their genre-bending talent to Kean U. for a stop on a highly anticipated spring/summer tour. 

 

For more info on these listings log onto the following web sites: 
Kean Stage • keanstage.com 
NJPAC • njpac.org 
Paper Mill Playhouse • papermill.org 
Prudential Center • prucenter.com 
State Theatre • stnj.org

 

Photo Credits:
NJPAC: Ballet Hispanico, PHILADANCO, Shen Yun, Gregory Porter, Michael Feinstein, Johnny Mathis, MasterChef Junior, National Dance Institute, Joshua Bell, Yvonne Orji, Henrik Nansi, Simone Porter ; State Theatre of New Jersey: Russian National Ballet, Complexions, The Play That Goes Wrong, Diavolo, Boyz II Men, Jay & The Americans, Princeton Percussion, Dinosaur World Live, Sesame Street Live, Jay Leon, Siberian State Orchestra; Kean Stage: Black Violin; Other: Elton John by Ernst Vikne; Rob Reiner by Jay Godwin; Billie Eilish courtesy of MTV International; Valerie Simpson courtesy of Hopsack & Silk Records; Bell Biv DeVoe courtesy of MCA Records; Taylor 2 by Whitney Browne; Recycled Percussion courtesy of Recycled Percussion; Maz Jobrani courtesy of Maz Jobrani
Entertainment on the Edge

On Tap This Autumn

 

Saturday • September 21 • 7:30 pm Sunday • September 22 • 3:00 pm

Kean Stage Art Garfunkel In Close-Up

The Rock n Roll Hall of Famer celebrates his 10th year at Enlow Recital Hall.

 

September 26 – October 27

Paper Mill Playhouse 

Chasing Rainbows The Road to Oz

A musical telling of how Frances Gumm became Judy Garland, from her days as a vaudeville child star to her career at MGM. Check website for show schedule.

 

Friday • September 27 7:00 pm

Prudential Center

 Heart Love Alive Tour

The original chart-topping female rock duo comes to New Jersey with their first tour in three years—joined by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

 

Saturday • September 28 8:00 pm

Prudential Center J

uan Luis Guerra Literal Tour

Grammy winning singer-songwriter Juan Luis Guerra and his band 4.40 stop at The Rock to debut their new studio album and perform their greatest hits.

 

Sunday • September 29 3:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Arlo Guthrie Alice’s Restaurant

The folk music hero returns to the Garden State for a concert celebrating the 50th anniversary of the silver-screen version of Alice’s Restaurant. The film starred Guthrie and was directed by Arthur Penn.

 

Sunday • October 6 • 7:30 pm

Prudential Center

Hugh Jackman The Man. The Music. The Show.

The multitalented Tony-winning performer has mounted his first world tour, featuring songs from The Greatest Showman and other Broadway musicals.

 

Saturday • October 12 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Temptations & Four Tops Live On Stage

Two of history’s most iconic R&B groups join forces in Brick City. The Temptations have seven Grammys to their credit, while the Four Tops scored two dozen Top 40 hits. Both groups have been enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Friday • October 18 • 7:30 pm

Kean Stage 

Vienna Boys Choir

The VBC was founded in the 15th century, making it one of the oldest singing groups on the planet. The Kean Stage appearance features one of the choir’s four touring groups, made up of altos and sopranos ages 9 to 14.

 

Saturday • October 19 6:00 & 8:30 pm

NJPAC/Chase Room 

Will and Anthony Nunziata Disney and The Boys

The acclaimed duo take a magical ride through the music of the Sherman Brothers (aka The Boys), whose movie scores include Mary Poppins, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid.

 

Saturday • October 19 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater Soulshine 

The Allman Brothers Experience

Six gifted musicians recreate a classic concert along with stunning video and lighting. Soulshine covers all the favorites, as well as songs played by Duane Allman before he joined the band.

 

Saturday • October 26 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 

Tusk Live On Stage

The ultimate Fleetwood Mac tribute band performs the group’s greatest hits.

 

Sunday • October 27 • 3:00 pm

Kean Stage 

Led Zeppelin II Classic Albums Live

Relive the band’s signature disc 50 years later with a group of talented musicians.

 

Sunday • October 27 • 7:00 pm

Prudential Center

Bad Bunny X 100Pre Tour

“King of Trap” Bad Bunny hits the stage in Newark with a high-voltage stage show, accompanied by some of the top stars of Latino rap and hip hop.

 

Sunday • October 27 • 3:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Munich Philharmonic Emperor Concerto

Valery Gergiev conducts and Behzod Abduraimov performs Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 as guest soloist. Gergiev, a champion of Russian composers, served as principal conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra.

 

Saturday • November 2 • 7:00 pm

State Theatre 

Chubby Checker & Friends Rock and Roll Spectacular

Chubby Checker and The Wildcats headlines a raucous revue that includes The Duprees, The Capris and The Tokens.

 

Friday • November 8 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Mandy Patinkin Diaries

Accompanied by Adam Ben-David, Broadway legend Mandy Patinkin performs songs by Stephen Sondheim, Harry Chapin, Rufus Wainwright and others.

 

Friday • November 8 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • November 9 • 2:00 & 8:00 pm

Sunday • November 10 • 2:00 pm

State Theatre 

Beautiful The Carole King Musical

The hit Broadway show traces Carole King’s journey from struggling songwriter to Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

 

Thursday • November 14 7:00 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 

Nimbus Dance Falling Sky

The innovative Jersey City dance troupe debuts Samuel Pott’s Falling Sky, set to a score by Qasim Naqvi. The evening of music and dance represents a bold collaboration between Nimbus, NJPAC and the NJ Symphony.

 

Thursday • November 14 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Chaka Kahn Live On Stage

The 10-time Grammy winner pioneered the fusion of funk and soul across a career that has spanned more than four decades. She is touring in support of her new album, Hello Happiness—her first in a dozen years.

 

November 15 – November 23

Kean Stage 

Sunday In the Park with George

Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s smash Broadway hit comes to Kean Stage for eight performances. Check website for dates and times.

 

FOR THE KIDS

 

Sunday • September 22 11:00 & 2:00 pm

State Theatre 

Jason Bishop Straight Up Magic

The master of double levitation performs his over-the-top illusions and close-up sleights of hand with help from lead assistant Kim Hess.

 

Friday • October 4 • 6:00 pm

Saturday • October 5 10:30 am, 2:00 & 5:30 pm

Sunday • October 6 10:30 am & 2:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Sesame Street Live Make Your Magic

Join Elmo and friends as they welcome magician extraordinaire Justin.

 

Saturday • October 26 2:00 & 7:30 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

The NJSO performs the score of sixth Harry Potter film live as it plays on the big screen.

 

Saturday • October 26 11:00 am

NJPAC/Victoria Theater Terra Theater

The Little Mermaid

Hans Christian Anderson’s beloved tale is brought to life by a team of master stage performers and puppeteers.

 

November 6 – 10

Prudential Center 

Disney On Ice Road Trip Adventures

Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Mickey, Minnie and friends take young fans on a wild ride around the world.

 

IT’S SO FUNNY

 

Friday • October 4 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater

 Nemr The Future Is Now

Lebanese-American standup Nemr Abou Nassar makes his New Jersey debut in the Victoria Theater. Nemr is coming off his sold-out Love Isn’t the Answer world tour.

 

Saturday • October 12 7:00 & 9:30 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 

Mike Marino & John Bramnick Live On Stage

Marino’s take on Italian-American culture has made him the bad boy of New Jersey comedy. He is joined by lawyer/comic Jon Bramnick. Check out Kike’s musings in Stand Up Guy on page 82

 

Saturday • October 19 • 8:00 pm

Sunday • October 20 • 7:30 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Jo Koy Live On Stage

Few comics are hotter right now than Filipino-American standup Jo Koy, whose rise from coffee houses to sold-out concerts and Netflix specials is one of the great stories in the business. His “overnight” success only took 25 years!

 

Friday • October 25 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre 

Carol Burnett An Evening of Laughter & Reflection

The beloved comic actress relives her greatest moments, shows video clips and (of course!) takes audience questions

.

Friday • November 1 • 7:30 pm

State Theatre 

Randy Rainbow Live On Stage

Satirist Randy Rainbow comes to New Brunswick for a wild evening of spoofs, parodies and scenery-chewing.

 

Saturday • November 2 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Franco Escamilla Payaso

Mexican-born comic performer and YouTube star Franco Escamilla comes to Newark with his new tour, Payaso (Clowns).

 

Friday • November 8 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • November 9 2:00 & 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 

Eli Castro Made in Puerto Rico

Standup Eli Castro takes a funny, loving look at “Spanglish” culture.

 

TALKING POINTS

 

Thursday • October 10 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

John Kerry A Conversation

Former Secretary of State John Kerry takes part in the New Jersey Speaker Series, presented by Fairleigh Dickinson University. Prior to his service in the Obama administration, Kerry spent three decades in the Senate.

 

Thursday • October 24 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Zanny Minton Beddoes Conversations

The editor in chief of The Economist takes the Prudential Hall Stage as part of the New Jersey Speaker Series.

 

TOTALLY JAZZED

 

Wednesday • November 6 8:00 pm

State Theatre 

James Carter, James Francies & Kandace Springs Blue Note 80th Anniversary

Three of the top names in contemporary jazz present an intimate evening honoring Blue Note’s decades-long heritage of cool jazz.

 

Friday • November 15 • 7:00 pm

NJPAC/Chase Room NJMEA All-State Jazz with Steve Turre Live On Stage

A new generation of jazz artists share the Chase Room stage, led by innovator/educator Steve Turre.

 

Friday • November 15 • 7:30 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater

 After Midnight The Music of the King Cole Trio

This year marks what would have been Nat King Cole’s 100th birthday. After Midnight celebrates his legacy and focuses on his work in the 1940s as a trend-setting pianist.

 

Friday • November 15 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

Spyro Gyra, Steps Ahead & Michael Franks Live On Stage

Three jazz-fusion hit-makers share the big stage at NJPAC as part of the James Moody Jazz Festival.

 

Saturday • November 16 8:00 pm

NJPAC/Prudential Hall 

The Roots with A Christian McBride Situation Live On Stage

The Tonight Show house band joins forces with Christian McBride’s experimental ensemble for an evening of jazz, funk, R&B and hip hop.

 

Thursday • November 21 • 7:30 pm

NJPAC/Victoria Theater 

Lee Ritenour with Dave Grusin & Friends Live On Stage

Jazz guitarist Lee Ritenour and pianist Dave Grusin perform as part of the James Moody Jazz Festival.

 

Editor’s Note: For more info on these listings log onto the following web sites:

Kean Stage • keanstage.com

NJPAC • njpac.org

Paper Mill Playhouse • papermill.org

Prudential Center • prucenter.com

State Theatre • stnj.org

 

Entertainment on the Edge

Schedule of Events

November 20 to December 29

Paper Mill Playhouse

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella

The Tony-nominate Broadway musical features some of the songwriting duo’s most memorable tunes, including “Impossible” and “In My Own Little Corner.”

 

Tuesday • December 3 • 8:00 pm

Wednesday • December 4 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

Jersey Boys

The Broadway megahit traces the ascent of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. But you know that already. The show has a Tony and a Grammy to its credit, and spun off a movie, to boot!

 

December 4 to December 29

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Charles Dickens’

A Christmas Carol

Brian Crowe directs this production of the beloved holiday classic, adapted for the stage by Neil Bartlett.

 

 

Taylor Mac- Holiday Sauce

NJPAC

Wednesday • December 4 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Taylor Mac

Holiday Sauce

The Tony-nominated force of nature Taylor Mac makes his NJPAC debut with an utterly outrageous holiday extravaganza. Not even remotely your father’s Christmas show.

 

 

 

Trilogy Opera Company-Sassy

NJPAC

Sunday • December 8 7:00 pm

NJPAC

Trilogy Opera Company

Sassy

The Victoria Theater hosts the return of Trilogy for a performance celebrating the life and work of Newark legend Sarah Vaughn, composed by Dorothy Rudd Moore.

 

 

 

Fiddler on the Roof

State Theatre

Friday • December 20 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • December 21 2:00 & 8:00 pm

Sunday • December 22 • 2:00 pm

State Theatre

Fiddler On the Roof

Director Bartlett Sher brings a fresh look to this classic musical, with choreography by Hofesh Shechter

 

 

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company- Year of the Golden Rat

NJPAC

Saturday • January 25 • 2:00 pm

Sunday • January 26 • 2:00 pm

NJPAC

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company

Year of the Golden Rat

NJPAC’s annual Chinese New Year celebration features choreographer Na-Ni Chen’s dance troupe on stage in the Victoria Theater.

 

The Color Purple

State Theatre

Thursday • January 30 • 8:00 pm

Friday • January 31 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • February 1 • 2:00 & 8:00 pm

State Theatre

The Color Purple

The State plays host to four performances of the  Tony- and Grammy-winning musical featuring a mix of ragtime, jazz, gospel and blues.

 

 

Unmasked: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber

January 30 to March 1

Paper Mill Playhouse

(Check web site for show dates and times.)

Unmasked: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber

The world premiere of a musical celebrating the life and work of one of history’s most prolific musical theater’s composers. The show includes highlights from Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Cats, Sunset Boulevard and Jesus Christ Superstar.

 

 

 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra- Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert

NJPAC

Saturday • February 8 • 2:00 & 7:30 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi In Concert

The NJSO performs John Williams’ score of the classic sci-fi film, presented simultaneously on the big screen in Prudential Hall.

 

FUNNY YOU SHOULD MENTION IT

 

DeRay David and Friends- Thanksgiving Comedy Fest

NJPAC

Friday • November 29 8:00 pm

NJPAC

DeRay David and Friends

Thanksgiving Comedy Fest

DeRay Davis headlines a comedy lineup that includes Tony Rock and Jessica Moore. Davis soared to stardom after his Netflix special How to Act Black and developed a new following as hit-man Jermel on the FOX series Empire.

 

 

Kreeps with Kids Comedy Tour

UPAC

Saturday • November 30 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC

Kreeps with Kids

Comedy Tour

Robert Kelly, Ron Bennington, Rich Voss and Jim Florentine team up for a truly unforgettable evening of adult childishness.

 

 

Sinbad- Live on Stage

UCPAC

Saturday • December 14 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC
Sinbad Live On Stage

The popular stand-up returns to
Rahway, where he sold out his 2016 show.

 

 

NJPAC

Sunday • December 29 • 7:00 pm

NJPAC

Michael Carbonaro Live On Stage

The star of TV’s beloved The Carbonaro Effect comes to NJPAC with his blend of crazy antics and mind-bending magic.

 

Drum Tao- Live on Stage

NJPAC

Saturday • February 8 • 3:00 & 7:30 pm

NJPAC

Drum Tao Live On Stage

A pulse-pounding, family-friendly performance of this off-Broadway hit.

 

INNER CHILD

 

Friday • November 29 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • November 30 • 2:00 & 8:00 pm

Sunday • December 1 • 2:00 pm

State Theatre

The SpongeBob Musical

The 2018 Drama Desk pick for Best Musical crosses the Hudson for four performances on the State Theatre stage.

 

Paw Patrol Live- The Great Pirate Adventure

NJPAC

Saturday • November 30 • 10:00 am, 2:00 & 6:00 pm

Sunday • December 1 • 10:00 am & 2:00 pm

NJPAC

Paw Patrol Live The Great Pirate Adventure

Nick Jr.’s animated series comes to life on the Prudential Hall stage as Ryder and his fellow rescue dogs follow the clues on a secret treasure map.

 

STAGE CRAFT

 

Maurice Hines- Tappin Thru Life

NJPAC

Saturday • November 23 3:00 & 7:00 pm

NJPAC

Maurice Hines

Tappin’ Thru Life

The legendary tap master is joined by the  Diva Jazz Orchestra and the Manzai Brothers for two performances from his off-Broadway show.

 

Holiday Dreams

NJPAC

Saturday • December 28 3:00 & 7:00 pm

NJPAC

Holiday Dreams

Billed as a spectacular holiday cirque, this performance features acrobats, aerialists, music and a jaw-dropping laser-light show.

 

Saturday • January 11 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC

Jeremy Jordan Live On Stage

Broadway star Jeremy Jordan returns to Rahway for an unforgettable one-man show.

CRACKIN’ GOOD

 

American Repertory Ballet- The Nutcracker

State Theatre

Friday • December 13 • 8:00 pm

Saturday • December 14 • 2:00 & 7:00 pm

State Theatre

American Repertory Ballet

The Nutcracker

ARB comes to The State with a cast of 100-plus performers under the artistic direction of Douglas Martin.

 

 

National Ballet Theatre of Odess- The Nutcracker

NJPAC

Saturday • December 14 • 2:00 & 7:00 pm

NJPAC

National Ballet Theatre of Odessa

The Nutcracker

Tchaikovsky’s beloved score sets the stage for Marius Petipa’s original choreography and sumptuous sets and costumes.

 

 

Kurtis Blow- The Hip-Hop Nutcracker

NJPAC

Friday • December 20 • 7:00 pm

Saturday • December 21 • 2:00 pm

NJPAC

Kurtis Blow

The Hip-Hop Nutcracker

Fast becoming a Brick City tradition, this telling of the classic holiday tale features rap legend Kurtis Blow as MC and a cast of edgy, high-energy performers.

 

OH, CLASSIC

 

National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine- In Concert

NJPAC

Sunday • November 24 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine

In Concert

The Kiev-based NSOU makes its NJPAC debut featuring pianist Olga Kern and conducted by Volodymyr Sirenko in a program of cherished Russian works.

 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra- Rachmaninoffs 3rd Piano Concert

NJPAC

Thursday • December 5 • 1:30 pm

Friday • December 6 • 8:00 pm

Sunday • December 8 • 3:00 pm

NJPAC

Saturday • December 7 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Rachmaninoff’s 3rd Piano Concerto

Pianist George Li is featured in the NJSO’s performance of three unforgettable works.

 

Kiev-Aniko Ballet of Ukraine- Salute to Vienna

State Theatre

Tuesday • December 31 5:00 pm

State Theatre

Kiev-Aniko Ballet of Ukraine

Salute to Vienna

The Kiev-Aniko Ballet teams with champion ballroom dancers for a New Year’s Eve concert that evokes the golden age of Vienna.

 

Friday • January 3 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Winter Festival: Romeo and Juliet

The NJSO performs works by Prokofiev and Clara Schumann behind pianist Inon Barnatan and conductor Xian Zhang.

 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra- Winter Festival: Don Giovanni

NJPAC

Saturday • January 11 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Sunday • January 12 • 3:00 pm

State Theatre

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Winter Festival: Don Giovanni

Comedy, tragedy, the supernatural—Mozart’s opera has it all, with the added bonus of Eric Wyrick on violin.

 

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra- Winter Festival: The Ring Without Words

Saturday • January 18 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

Sunday • January 19 • 3:00 pm

NJPAC

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Winter Festival: The Ring Without Words

Pianist Simon Trpčeski is featured in a program highlighting the towering works of Wagner and Lizst.

 

NOTEWORTHY

 

TOOL In Concert

Prudential Center

Saturday • November 16 • 7:30 pm

Prudential Center

TOOL In Concert

Three-time Grammy winners come to Newark in support of their new album, Fear Inoculum. The “thinking man’s metal band” has built a unique artsy following over the past two decades, and was one of the last U.S. bands to release its music digitally.

 

Jonas Brothers- Happiness Begins Tour

Prudential Center

Friday • November 22 7:30 pm

Prudential Center

Jonas Brothers

Happiness Begins Tour

The multiplatinum brother act returns to The Rock on their biggest tour ever. They’ll be joined on stage by special guests Bebe Rexha and Jordan McGraw.

 

Saturday • November 23 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

The Fab Faux

Beatles Movie Music

The legendary Beatles tribute band performs selections from A Hard Day’s Night, Help, Magical Mystery Tour and Yellow Submarine.

 

Sunday • November 24 • 11:00 am & 1:00 pm

NJPAC

Houston Person

Saxophone virtuoso Houston Person headlines two brunch-time performances at NJPAC’s Nico Kitchen+Bar in the latest edition of the Dorthaan’s Place series.

 

Martina McBride- The Joy of Christmas Tour

UCPAC

Sunday • December 15 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC

Martina McBride

The Joy of Christmas Tour

Country superstar Martina McBride performs selections from It’s the Holiday Season, along with a few of her six #1 hits.

 

Sunday • December 15 • 4:00 pm

NJPAC

Boston Pops In Concert

This is the holiday show that has entertained generations, conducted by Keith Lockhart.

 

Bela Fleck and The Flecktones In Concert

State Theatre

Friday • December 26 • 8:00 pm

State Theatre

Béla Fleck & The Flecktones In Concert

The group’s original lineup is together in support of their latest album, Rocket Science.

 

Stephanie Mills In Concert

NJPAC

Saturday • January 18 • 8:00 pm

NJPAC

Stephanie Mills In Concert

The legendary Stephanie Mills takes the Prudential Hall stage with R&B super group The Whispers as part of NJPAC’s annual MLK celebration.

 

Classical Mystery Tour- Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band

NJPAC

Sunday • January 26 • 3:00 pm

NJPAC

Classical Mystery Tour

Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

The Beatles tribute band teams up with members of NJSO for a concert featuring their most iconic album… and more.

 

Ice-T In Concert

UCPAC

Saturday • February 15 • 8:00 pm

UCPAC

Ice-T In Concert

NJ-born actor, rapper, producer, entrepreneur Ice-T takes the Main Stage for a raucous live performance.

 

Celine Dion- Courage World Tour

Prudential Center

Saturday • March 7 • 7:30 pm

Sunday • March 8 • 7:30 pm

Prudential Center

Celine Dion

Courage World Tour

The record-shattering powerhouse performer appears on back-to-back nights in the 2020 leg of her Courage tour.

 

Editor’s Note: For more info on these listings log onto the following web sites:

NJPAC • njpac.org
Paper Mill Playhouse • papermill.org
Prudential Center • prucenter.com
State Theatre • stnj.org
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey • Shakespearenj.org
Union County Performing Arts Center & Hamilton Stage • ucpac.org