PROFESSIONAL THEATRE CALENDAR

Stages Festival Schedule of Events february –ju l —

INSIDE — 2015

y PROFESSIONAL THEATRE CALENDAR

New Jersey Theatre Alliance The New Jersey Theatre Alliance supports a thriving statewide professional theatre community with a wealth of resources. The Alliance provides innovative, collaborative, and engaging programming for theatres and their diverse audiences. Members include large and small theatres — each one a fully-functioning business with paid staff and artists (designers, technicians, directors, and actors). These theatres support the economic development of the state, contribute to their communities with outreach and arts education opportunities, and offer theatre that inspires, challenges, and entertains close to one million theatre-goers annually. Cornerstones of the Alliance’s public programming include:

A month-long event offering free and discounted performances, workshops, and events at New Jersey professional theatres, libraries, senior centers, and other non-traditional venues every March.

A discount ticketing website offering last-minute deals for the best of New Jersey’s performing arts.

A co-sponsored project with the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State — the Project assists theatres and the state’s cultural community in making their programs and facilities accessible to people with disabilities.

Staff for the New Jersey Theatre Alliance John McEwen Executive Director Robert Carr Director of Programs and Services Ruth Zamoyta Development and Communications Director Jenna Rocca Manager of Digital Communications & Programs Risa Lower Administrative Assistant

Cover Photo: Kent Overshown and Perry Sook in Camelot at Two River Theater. Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

February – July 2015, professional theatre calendar Issue 1, vol. 12 Published two times a year in August and February New Jersey Theatre Alliance, 8 Marcella Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

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The New Jersey Theatre Alliance is committed to making live theatre accessible to everyone. If individual assistance or assistive technology is needed to attend a performance at one of our member theatres, contact that theatre at the telephone or TTY number listed. We recommend contacting any theatre for this purpose at least two weeks prior to performance. Theatres that host sign language, open-captioned and audio-described performances do so on specific dates; contact the theatre for more details on these performance dates. Please visit our theatres’ websites for their accessible services and events. Accessibility Options:

Barrier-Free Large Print

TTY Sign-Interpreted

Audio-Described Braille Performance Programs Assisted Open Captioning Listening

Search for theatre events and discount tickets near you! Visit our new website: njtheatrealliance.org

The company of Gettin’ the Band Back Together; photo by T. Charles Erickson

More about the Alliance at njtheatrealliance.org 3 PROFESSIONAL THEATRE CALENDAR

American Theater Group rahway Box Office: (732) 499-8226 americantheatergroup.org

tick, tick…BOOM! January 28 – February 8 Music and Lyrics by Jonathan Larson. Book by Jonathan Larson and David Auburn. This passionate, funny, and uplifting musical is about a struggling artist who is trying to keep it all together: his girlfriend, his childhood buddy, and turning thirty—while trying to write the next great American musical. By the creator of Rent. In a Forest, Dark and Deep April 8 – April 19 By Neil LaBute. In this provocative play about sibling rivalry and deceptive appearances, a brother discovers an incriminating picture of his sister, the dean of a liberal arts college, with a student.

Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum morristown Box Office: (973) 971-3706 www.morrismuseum.org

Wait Until Dark January 29 – February 15 By Frederick Knott and adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher. Suzy Hendrix, a blind housewife becomes the target for con men trying to steal her doll which is secretly stuffed with heroin. When the criminal’s plan to persuade Suzy to give them the doll fails, things turn deadly. Lies, murder, and deception build to a shattering climax when the playing field is leveled and all are plunged into darkness. Talley’s Folly April 9 – 26 By Lanford Wilson. At the end of World War II, Matt calls on Sally at her rural Missouri home. Her family rejects him because he is a Jew, and hints at some dark secret in Sally’s past. A night of arguing, joking, and wooing brings the two to reveal their secrets and consider their future in this tender love story.

Shows and dates are subject to change; call theatres or check the NJTA website to confirm.

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Cape May Stage cape may Box Office: (609) 770-8311 www.capemaystage.org

Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins May 20 – June 12 (New Jersey Premiere) By Margaret Engel and Allison Engel. This side-splitting comedy depicts the life of no-holds-barred newspaper columnist and best-selling author, Molly Ivins. As she stirred up trouble in the old boys’ club, Ivins earned a seat next to Mark Twain as one of America’s beloved satirists. Mary Mary June 17 – July 24 By Jean Kerr. Mary and Bob, a nearly divorced couple meet over taxes, when a Valentine’s Day snowstorm traps them in an apartment with three others: their lawyer, a handsome film hero, and Bob’s young and wealthy fiancé. Sparks fly all over again in this warm and witty portrayal of marriage gone hilariously awry. Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe July 29 – September 4 By Jane Wagner. Trudy, a bag lady, takes us, along with a group of intergalactic visitors, on a magical journey of discovery. Known as Lily Tomlin’s one-woman tour-de-force, this award-winning comedy features multiple characters and brilliantly interwoven stories revealing our society at its best and its worst.

Centenary Stage Company hackettstown Box Office: (908) 979-0900 www.centenarystageco.org

In the Car with Blossom and Len February 20 – March 8 (World Premiere) By Joni Fritz. In this funny and poignant new play, a basket full of unpaid bills for chemical engineer Lenny Gold’s laboratory is discovered by one of his daughters, unveiling a lifetime of secrets, a mysterious silent partner, and a few challenges which must be met by this family. This delightful family saga is about growing up, growing older, and where you put your keys.

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Then Came Each Actor April 10 – 26 (World Premiere) By Randall Duk Kim and Anne Occhiogrosso. This play by two noted Shakespearean artists celebrates some of the great (and not so great) performers ever to have acted Shakespeare’s plays.

Crossroads Theatre Company new brunswick Box Office: (732) 545-8100 www.crossroadstheatrecompany.org

Repairing a Nation February 26 – March 8 (World Premiere) By Nikkole Salter. It’s Christmas in Oklahoma, 2001. The Davis family’s holiday gathering is upended when Lois insists that the family join a class-action lawsuit against the state for the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921. Old family wounds are ripped open and we discover that the government isn’t the only one being asked to apologize. Autumn April 16 – May 3 By Richard Wesley. Franklyn Longley, a veteran big-city mayor in line to become the first Black governor of his state, suddenly finds his place in history threatened when his party decides to throw its nomination behind a dynamic young politician who is also Black, and just so happens to be the mayor’s protégé.

Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre summit Box Office: (800) 838-3006 www.dreamcatcherrep.org

The Most Deserving February 12 – March 1 (New Jersey Premiere) By Catherine Trieschmann. The Ellis County Arts Council is giving away the largest artist grant in its history. When a professor makes a case for an unconventional outsider, the council braces for battle. A tart, satirical comedy about what happens when the arts collide with sex, class, and politics. “Hilarious…riveting!” The New Yorker

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Rapture, Blister, Burn April 16 – May 3 (New Jersey Premiere) By Gina Gionfriddo. After graduate school, Catherine and Gwen chose opposite paths: rockstar academic and traditional mom. Decades later, each woman covets the other’s life, commencing a dangerous game of musical chairs—the prize being Gwen’s husband.

Eagle Theatre Hammonton Box Office: (609] 704-5012 www.theeagletheatre.com

Catch Me If You Can January 23 – February 21 Music by Marc Shaiman. Lyrics by Marc Shaiman & Scott Wittman. Book by Terrence McNally. A vibrant musical based on the hit DreamWorks film. With nothing more than his boyish charm, imagination, and millions in forged checks, Frank W. Abangnale, Jr. runs away from home and poses as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer— living the high life…until his lies catch up with him. tick, tick…BOOM! March 20 – April 25 Music and Lyrics by Jonathan Larson. Book by Jonathan Larson and David Auburn. A songwriter grapples with his unrelenting desire to write the great American musical before the clock runs out, in this musical largely based on the life of the playwright, Jonathan Larson. The Graduate May 29 – June 27 By Terry Johnson. Based on the novel by Charles Webb. Recent college graduate Benjamin Braddock returns home with an undefined aim in life. With nowhere to go and determination to get there fast, he fumbles into a liaison with Mrs. Robinson, the wife of his father’s business partner. Soon, Benjamin finds himself falling in love with her daughter, Elaine, but their courtship is threatened when Elaine discovers the affair.

Get Social With NJTA!

Shows and dates are subject to change; call theatres or check the NJTA website to confirm.

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East Lynne Theater Company Cape May Box Office: (609) 884-5898 www.eastlynnetheater.org

Mr. Lincoln June 17 – July 25 By Herbert Mitgang. As a gun is held to his head in Ford’s Theater, Abraham Lincoln remembers his life, from his early days as a lawyer to his rise to the presidency. This production commemorates the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s assassination. Huckleberry Finn July 29 – September 5 (World Premiere) Based on the Mark Twain novel; adapted by James Rana. Fleeing from his drunken father, young Huck Finn meets Jim, a runaway slave, along the way. Join this unlikely pair in an unforgettable odyssey as they drift down the Mississippi River.

The Garage Theatre Group Teaneck Box Office: (201) 569-7710 www.garagetheatre.org

Landscape of the Body February 12 – March 1 By John Guare. A vibrant and unsettling poetic portrait of the untold American experience, Landscape of the Body follows the turbulent journey of a single mother as she raises a child and rebuilds her own identity on the seediest street of NYC’s Greenwich Village, circa 1974. Lost In History April 16 – May 3 (World Premiere) By Adam Siegel. A memorable and heartfelt portrayal of a father and son struggling to find a way to connect with each other despite the huge differences that exist between them. Ubu Roi June 25 – July 12 By Alfred Jarry. Originally, this parody of Shakespeare’s Macbeth scandalized Paris when it debuted in 1896. In this production, the play is set in a modern luxury kitchen where a wealthy American couple play out their fantasies of wealth and power.

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George Street Playhouse New Brunswick Box Office: (732) 246-7717 georgestreetplayhouse.org

The Whipping Man January 20 – February 15 By Matthew Lopez. After the Civil War, a wounded Jewish Confederate soldier returns to his family home—abandoned except for two former slaves also raised in the faith. The three men share an improvised Seder to mark Passover, and discover that they remain bound by faith, history, and long-buried secrets. Recommended for ages 13 and up. Buyer and Cellar March 3 – 29 By Jonathan Tolins. A hilarious examination of the pressures of fame, this play follows underemployed actor Alex More, who is hired for the oddest of odd jobs—toiling in the basement “mall” of a famous actress. Six Degrees of Separation April 21 – May 17 A man who claims to be the son of Sidney Poitier turns up injured and penniless at the home of the Kittredges. They are drawn to his charming ways, home-cooked gourmet meals, and tales of Hollywood royalty. As their involvement takes unexpected twists and turns, they begin to question not only his identity, but their own. For mature audiences.

The Growing Stage: The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey Netcong Box Office: (973) 347-4946 www.growingstage.com

And Then Came Tango March 6 – 29 (World Premiere) By Emily Freeman. This beautiful play is inspired by the true story of Roy and Silo, two male penguins at the Central Park Zoo who formed a pair bond, built a nest, and successfully raised a baby fledgling. Dance, storytelling, and music are interwoven in a production that celebrates families of all.

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A Year With Frog and Toad April 17 – May 10 Book and Lyrics by Willie Reale. Music by Robert Reale. Based on the books by Arnold Lobel. This whimsical show follows two best friends—the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad —through four fun-filled seasons, celebrating differences that make them unique and special. Part vaudeville, part make-believe, all charm, this is a story of a friendship that endures, weathering all seasons.

Luna Stage Company West Orange Box Office: (973) 395-5551 www.lunastage.org

A Perfect Ganesh January 29 – February 22 By Terrence McNally. A quest for meaning in their lives leads two outwardly unremarkable middle-aged women on a rousing tour of India, each one having her own secret dreams of what the fabled land of intoxicating opposites will do for the suffering she hides within. The golden elephant god Ganesha intervenes with breathtaking release for both women. Tar Beach April 9 – May 9 (World Premiere) By Tammy Ryan. It’s July 1977, Son of Sam is on the loose and NYC is in a brutal heat wave. Boy crazy sixteen-year-old Mary Claire and her best friend Mary Francis hatch a plan to stay out all night, but an overstressed electrical grid leads to a city-wide blackout and a sudden loss of innocence.

McCarter Theatre Center Princeton Box Office: (609) 258-2787 www.mccarter.org

Sizwe Banzi is Dead January 16 – February 15 Written by Athol Fugard, John Kani, and Winston Ntshona. To stay above the water, Sizwe Banzi might just have to put himself below the ground. As relevant as it was when first produced 40 years ago, this South African play is an exquisite demonstration of the political power of storytelling. A tale of heroism and perseverance, filled with surprising humor, and uplifting faith in the human spirit.

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Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery March 10 – 29 (World Premiere) By Ken Ludwig. The male heirs of the Baskerville line are being dispatched one by one. To find their ingenious killer, Sherlock Holmes and Watson must brave the desolate moors. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic is transformed into a murderously funny adventure and brings this spine-tingling Victorian whodunit to life. Five Mile Lake May 1 – 31 By Rachel Bonds. This play paints a moving portrait of a group of young people yearning to make the right choices—and facing the choices they have already made—as they journey into their thirties in a rapidly transforming world. Don’t miss this funny, heart-wrenching piece about those who stay, and those who go away.

New Jersey Repertory Company Long Branch Box Office: (732) 229-3166 www.njrep.org

The M Spot February 26 – March 29 (World Premiere) By Michael Tucker. Jerry and Maddie have been married forever and want to recapture the former vitality of their marriage. An opportunity arises for them to go to a new-age spa retreat, complete with nude massages. Will the shy and skeptical Maddie go for her husband’s outrageous antics?

Paper Mill Playhouse Millburn Box Office: (973) 376-4343 www.papermill.org

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike January 21 – February 15 By Christopher Durang. This Tony Award-winning comedy for Best Play mixes four distinct characters and dishes up a hilarious stew. “Will Vanya and Sonia ever find happiness? Will Masha sell the Bucks County farmhouse out from under them? And will Spike ever put his pants on? A touching and wickedly funny play.

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The Hunchback of Notre Dame March 4 – April 5 (US Premiere) Music by Alan Menken. Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The only stage collaboration between two giants of American musical theater, this intimate retelling of a famous love story inspired by the classic Victor Hugo novel has a lush, emotionally rich score that will leave you inspired. Ever After May 21 – June 21 (World Premiere) This sparkling new musical is based on the 1998 film starring Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Huston. Danielle is a strong-willed, independent woman who befriends Leonardo da Vinci and makes her dreams come true—without the help of fairy godmothers, talking mice, or magic pumpkins.

Passage Theatre Company Trenton Box Office: (609) 392-0766 www.passagetheatre.org

The Gun Show January 22 – February 8 (New Jersey Premiere) By EM Lewis. We have a problem with guns in America. The problem is, we really, really like them. A solo show about America’s most dangerous pastime. The Goldilocks Zone May 14 – 31 (World Premiere) By Ian August. Franny and Andy will do anything to have a baby. But Franny can’t conceive, Andy’s gay, and they haven’t told their partners. A Craigslist ad causes worlds to collide in this playful and moving look at parenthood and modern families.

Playwrights Theatre Madison Box Office: (973) 514-1787, ext. 10 www.ptnj.org

Productions were not announced at press time. Visit the Playwrights Theatre website for updates and more information about this company.

Shows and dates are subject to change; call theatres or check the NJTA website to confirm.

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Premiere Stages Union Box Office: (908) 737-7469 www.kean.edu/premierestages

11th Annual Spring Reading Series March 19 – 22 Join Premiere Stages for the 11th Annual Spring Reading Series, featuring free readings by professional actors of the four finalists for the 2015 Premiere Stages Play Festival. The readings provide an opportunity to see plays in a developmental forum, make suggestions to the playwrights, and support the creation of new work. Staged Reading of the 2015 Play Festival Runner-Up June 19 – 21 Get a firsthand look at the new play development process by attending this free staged reading of the runner-up in the 2015 Premiere Stages Play Festival. A talkback with the playwright will follow the reading. 2015 Premiere Stages Play Festival Winner July 16 – August 2 (World Premiere) A full Equity production of the winning play from the 2015 Premiere Stages Play Festival, an annual competition for unproduced scripts by writers born or residing in the greater metropolitan area.

Pushcart Players Verona Phone: (973) 857-1115 www.pushcartplayers.org

Pushcart Players is a touring company; a list of public performances can be found on the company’s website. Call Pushcart Players to find out about booking these and other productions for your organization, or to receive a schedule of public performances. Alice in Wonderland Book and lyrics by Ruth Fost, music by Carole Wechter, orchestrations by Larry Hochman. This newest addition to the repertoire is filled with Lewis Carroll’s brilliant nonsense and madcap characters, plus Pushcart’s whimsical music, design, and direction. Alice goes on an enchanted journey of self-discovery, meeting many colorful individuals along the way who help create a tale of challenges, choices, and happy conclusions.

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Celebrating New Jersey! Book & Lyrics by Ruth Fost, music by Carole Wechter, Larry Hochman, Marc Elliot and Judd Woldin. Celebrate NJ’s 350th anniversary with this timely and charming new folk musical highlighting the resources, beauty, notable citizenry, and the central role that New Jersey played in shaping the nation. This is a spirited and stylish exploration of the innovation and diversity that continues to define New Jersey. Red Riding Hood and Other Stories Book and lyrics by Ruth Fost, music by Ruth Fost and Sandi Zimmermann, orchestrations by Larry Hochman. An enchanting musical collection of the classic tales: “Princes and the Pea,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” and “All’s Well That Ends Well,” told with a contemporary spin. Stone Soup…and Other Stories Adapted by Ruth Fost and Carole Wechter, orchestrations by Larry Hochman. Story theatre at its best with folk tales from around the world, providing a delightful introduction to theatre, as well as to the cultures and customs of different lands. The Last, The Very Last…Butterfly Book by Ruth Fost, music by Larry Hochman. This is a touching and informative play with music based on the poems, drawings, and experiences of children of the Holocaust. Some of them survived, many did not; yet their messages continue to resonate. “Butterfly” fulfills the Holocaust Education Mandate and offers a springboard for broader discussion of character development issues.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Madison Box Office: (973) 408-5600 www.shakespearenj.org

The Royal Family May 27 – June 21 By George S. Kaufman and Edna Ferber. This lavish, outrageously funny American classic celebrates the passions, tribulations, and triumphs of the Cavendish dynasty — a fictitious reigning family of the early 20th century American theatre, loosely based on the actual Barrymore clan. Red Velvet July 8 – 26 A moving, resonant dramatization of the astonishing true story of Ira Aldridge, the first black actor to play Othello on a major London stage. Ms Chakrabati won London’s Evening Chronicle and Critic’s for this moving, resonant docudrama.

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Love’s Labour’s Lost June 17 – July 26 By William Shakespeare. Three idealistic young courtiers foreswear all ladies until three witty French beauties arrive in court, testing the young lords’ resolve. With young love, beautiful language, and an equal measure of Shakespeare’s wisdom and colorful characters, this play is perfect for all ages.​

Surflight Theatre Beach Haven Box Office: (609) 492-9477 www.surflight.org

Productions were not announced at press time. Visit the Surflight Theatre website for updates and more information about this company.

Two River Theater Red Bank Box Office: (732) 345-1400 tworivertheater.org

Guadalupe in the Guest Room February 14 – March 15 (World Premiere) By Tony Meneses. This beautiful new play introduces us to Guadalupe Castillo, a Mexican woman whose daughter’s untimely death leaves her struggling to connect with her American son-in-law and a country whose language she barely speaks. A moving and funny play about the celebration of life and unexpected healing power of Telenovelas. Your Blues Ain’t Sweet Like Mine April 11 – May 3 (World Premiere) Written by Ruben Santiago-Hudson. Zeke is a “walking outburst.” Judith is a “seeker of knowledge.” As their worlds collide, they discover the true meaning of history, sacrifice, and legacy. Tony Award-winner Ruben Santiago-Hudson brings us a provocative, daring, and immensely powerful drama about America’s relationship to race — and the power of hope and possibility in all of our lives. A Little Shakespeare: A Midsummer Night’s Dream April 23 – May 1 By William Shakespeare. Adapted Jason McDowell-Green. One of Shakespeare’s most famous, magical, and romantic comedies performed in just 90 minutes by a cast of local high school students. Be More Chill May 30 – June 21 Music & Lyrics by Joe Iconis. Book by Joe Tracz. Based on the novel by Ned Vizzini. Jeremy is just your average dork trying to survive life in his suburban New Jersey high school. When he swallows a pill-sized supercomputer called The Squip that promises to bring him everything he desires most, he is transformed from complete geek to the coolest guy in class, but is it worth the risk?

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associate Equity Member Theatres The Associate Theatre Program offers developing/emerging theatres mentoring services and networking opportunities by and with the NJTA equity member theatres.

Actors Shakespeare Company Shadow Lawn Stage PO Box 311 Lauren K. Woods Theatre Hoboken, NJ 07030 Monmouth University http://www.ascnj.org/ 400 Cedar Avenue West Long Branch, NJ 07764 Alliance Repertory (732) 263-5730 Theatre Company www.monmouth.edu/ Performance space: shadowlawnstage MONDO 426 Springfield Avenue Skyline Theatre Company Summit, NJ 07901 The Fair Lawn Community Center Mailing address: George Frey Center for Arts 1540 Westfield Avenue and Recreation Clark, NJ 07066 10-10 20th Street, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410 Mailing address: http://www.alliancerep.org/ PO Box 1115 908-472-1502 Fair Lawn, NJ 07410-8115 (800) 474-1299 Midtown Direct Rep www.skylinetheatrecompany.org South Orange Performing Arts Center 1 SOPAC Way South Camden South Orange, NJ 07079 Theatre Company Waterfront South Theatre Mailing address: 400 Jasper Street 14 Oberlin Street Camden, NJ 08104 Maplewood, NJ 07040 Box Office: (866) 811-4111 (973) 313-ARTS Business Office: (856) 409-0365 www.midtowndirectrep.org www.southcamdentheatre.org

Mile Square Theatre The Theater Project 720 Monroe Street - E202 at The Burgdorff Center Hoboken, NJ 07030 for the Performing Arts (201) 683-7014 10 Durand Road www.milesquaretheatre.org Maplewood, NJ 07040 Mailing address: Musically PO Box 101 Human Theatre Union, NJ 07083 at Luna Stage (973) 763-4029 555 Valley Road www.theTheaterProject.org West Orange, NJ 07052 Mailing address: Tri-State Actors Theater 16 Main St Mailing address: West Orange, NJ 07052 PO Box 9 (917) 691-3633 Newton, NJ 07860 (973) 383-0510 www.musicallyhuman.org www.tristateactorstheater.org

Ocean Professional Women’s Theater Company Theatre Company The Parsippany Playhouse at the P.O. Box 35 Parsippany Community Center Manahawkin, NJ 08050 1130 Knoll Road (609) 312-8306 Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034 www.oceantheatre.org/ Mailing address: PO Box 5924 ReVision Theatre Parsippany, NJ 07054 P.O. Box 973 (973) 316-3033 Asbury Park, NJ 07712 www.womenstheater.org (732) 455-3059 www.ReVisionTheatre.org

Contact these theatres for information on their season schedules.

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Board of Trustees

Todd Schmidt Paper Mill Playhouse, Managing Director Chairman Natalie Watson, Esq. McCarter & English, Partner President John Wooten Premiere Stages, Artistic Director Vice Chairman Laurence Capo Young Audiences Arts for Learning New Jersey and Eastern PA, President & CEO Treasurer John Pietrowski Playwrights Theatre, Artistic Director Secretary

Connie Alexis-Laona Director of Development, School of Arts & Sciences, Rutgers University Foundation June Ballinger Executive Artistic Director, Passage Theatre Jeanne Barrett Managing Director, The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Joseph P. Benincasa President & CEO, The Actors Fund Etta Rudolf Denk Senior Vice President – NJ Market Manager, Bank of America Carolyn J. Ferolito Arts Advocate Ruth Fost Executive/Artistic Director, Pushcart Players Seth Geldzahler Vice President of Real Estate, Bed, Bath & Beyond Eric Hafen Artistic Director, Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum Laura J. Hay Principal/National Insurance Leader, KPMG LLP Carol A. Herbert New Jersey State Council on the Arts Michael Hurst Managing Director, Two River Theater Tom Romano Managing Director, The Growing Stage: The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey Mary Chris Rospond President, Exquisite Entertaining Gayle Stahlhuth Artistic Director, East Lynne Theater Company

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Alliance Partners

The New Jersey Theatre Alliance is grateful to the following individuals, corporations, businesses, foundations and government agencies for their encouragement and support of our programs and services.

Sustainers ($50,000 or more)

This program is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation

Producers ($25,000 - $49,999)

The New Jersey Cultural Trust

Directors ($10,000 – $24,999) F.M. Kirby Foundation The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey The Hyde and Watson Foundation Kessler Foundation PSEG Foundation The Shubert Foundation The Smart Family Foundation The Wallerstein Foundation for Geriatric Life Improvement

Benefactors ($5,000 – $9,999) Carolyn J. Ferolito The E.J. Grassmann Trust Investors Foundation Johnson & Johnson The George A. Ohl, Jr. Trust Foundation Springpoint Senior Living Foundation Union Foundation

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Sponsors ($2,500 – $4,999) Gallagher Family Legacy Fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey Nassau Communications Patrons ($1,000 – $2,499) The Actors Fund H3 Hardy Collaboration Architecture Connie Alexis-Laona Laura J. Hay Sondra and Stephen Beninati The Karma Foundation Laurence G. Capo Mills Schnoering Architects, LLC The Douglas R. & Leigh P. Conant Paper Mill Playhouse Board of Cookie Jar Foundation Trustees in Memory of Mark Jones The Drumthwacket Foundation Joan and Robert Rechnitz William Engel, Esq. Mary Chris Rospond Kenneth Fisher, Jr. Mary Ellen and Robert Waggoner Ruth and Arthur Fost Janet Zoubek & Peter Dickson Amy and Seth Geldzahler Supporters ($500 – $999) Nancy and Joseph Benincasa Kevin and Diane Kennedy Etta Rudolf Denk Linda Lobdell Debra Dubow and Tom Lyons New Jersey Performing Arts Center Engel & Devlin, PC Meryl Schlossman The Foung Family Todd Schmidt James Gallagher, PhD Donors ($250 – $499) Anonymous Penelope Lattimer Jeanne and James F. Barrett II Wendy Liscow Shawn and Isabel Bernardo Donn and Nan O’Brien Donald Ehman and Linda Kinsey John Pietrowski Liz Fillo Lynne and John Rathgeber Beth and Ralph Fylstra Thomas J. Romano Donna and Eric Hafen Joanne Serriano Sandra Harris Stages Consultants Michael Hurst Gayle Stahlhuth IBEW Local 456 Natalie Watson, Esq. Laura I. Kramer Nina Mitchell Wells Angels ($100 – $249) Shirley Aidekman-Kaye Charlotte McKim June Ballinger Barbara Melone Audrey Bartner Barbara and Tom Moran Meredith and Michael Bzdak New Jersey Monthly Renie Carniol Abby O’Neill William Davis Laura and Mark Packer Patricia Docherty Clare and Martin Prentice Carolyn Dorfman Julie Ellen Prusinowski Laura Ekstrand Jeanette Rospond Anne Eddy Steve Runk Diane Gallo Jocelyn Schwartzman M. Ishmael Griffin Grace Shackney William Gusmer Thomas Shaw-Gardner Jessica Hardy & Melverne Cooke Frank Smith The Merrill G. and Elliot and Susan Stupak Emita Hastings Foundation James Thebery, M.A.,CSW Carol and Harold Herbert Germaine and Richard Trabert John Hinds Lora Tremayne Ellwood and Ruth Kerkeslager Foundation Peter and Ellie Ventimiglia Jim and Gloria Kieley Justin and Lana Walder Judith Leone Kristin and Ken Wenger Jane Mandel WithumSmith+Brown, PC

Listings are current from 11/1/13 – 12/31/14

More about the Alliance at njtheatrealliance.org 19 PROFESSIONAL THEATRE CALENDAR New Website — Same March 2015 Discounts

njArtsTix.org has the hottest discount tickets to theatre, dance, and music performances statewide. Our new website allows you to search, purchase, and discover performances with ease.

With discounts of 25% and up 48 hours in advance of showtime — or one week in advance with a $30 yearly tax-deductible donation/ VIP membership — njArtsTix.org is the way to go.

Events change daily — check in often. 20 MAKE A DATE For great theatre!

March 2015 A program of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance

Photos: David Kelly Crow

Reservations are required for most events. Check www.njtheatrealliance.org/ stagesfestival regularly for additions and updates to the schedule. #Stages15

Programs are subject to change. Listings are current at press time. 21 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Thanks to our Stages Festival Supporters.

The Stages Festival is sponsored by:

This program is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Blanche The Smart and Irving Family Foundation Laurie Foundation Foundation

Additional support has been provided by:

The F.M. Kirby Foundation The George A. Ohl, Jr. Trust Foundation

The New Jersey State Council on the Arts The New Jersey State Council on the Arts is proud to be a cosponsor of The Stages Festival, and has been since its inception (when it was called Family Week at the Theatre). This cosponsorship is just one example of the State Arts Council’s on-going commitment to bring quality arts programming to children, families and communities all across New Jersey. Programs such as The Stages Festival showcase our state’s exceptional wealth of talent and creativity, and help bring us together through the arts.

22 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

The Stages Festival — now in its 18th year* — is a program that offers free and discounted performances, workshops and events at New Jersey professional theatres, libraries, senior centers and other non-traditional venues every March. Join us — and bring your family and your friends — to experience the quality, inspiration and richness that New Jersey’s professional theatres have to offer.

Our commitment to accessibility The New Jersey Theatre Alliance is committed to making all of its programs and services fully accessible to the public. All venues participating in The Stages Festival are wheelchair accessible. Events take place at various locations throughout the state. Contact individual venues directly if you require further details regarding physical access (e.g. parking, wheelchair seating, restroom access). If you require any special services such as sign language interpretation or assistive listening, contact us at 973-731-6582 x15 at least two weeks prior to the scheduled event so we can work with the venue to meet your needs.

Weather Cancellations While we make every effort to have the show go on, in some cases a performance must be cancelled due to weather for the safety of patrons, staff and performers. If you have questions about a possible weather cancellation go to The Stages Festival website at stagesfestival.org, or call the venue for updates.

Select events will feature visits from Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey’s Blue to You van — a mobile customer service unit equipped with knowledgeable representatives to help Medicare Advantage customers and Medicare-eligible consumers get better access to one-on-one care and information. Staff can arrange medical appointments, transportation services, and discuss wellness and educational topics on the spot.

* The Stages Festival began in 1997 as Family Week at the Theatre.

Reservations are required for most events. 23 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Special Events New Plays New Jersey Sunday, March 1 - Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 7:00pm Note: There will be no reading on Saturday, March 7

This week-long series of staged readings in the intimate setting of the Morris Museum will provide a glimpse of the quality and depth of plays that make New Jersey the Garden State of new work. New Jersey-based writers and theatres play a large role on the national new play development stage. New Plays New Jersey is a showcase of these writers and the New Jersey theatres that develop and produce their work. A partnership with the National New Play Network, Playwrights Theatre, and Bickford Theatre, featuring plays from New Jersey Theatre Alliance member theatres: Centenary Stage Company, The Growing Stage: The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey, Luna Stage Company, New Jersey Repertory Company, Passage Theatre Company, Playwrights Theatre, Premiere Stages, and South Camden Theatre Company. For more information and a list of specific play titles for New Plays New Jersey, please visit the Stages Festival website at stagesfestival.org. Bickford Theatre at Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown Recommended for high school | 7:00pm | Free

Theatre Day at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Saturday, March 14, 2015 10:30am and 1:30pm Both workshops are approximately 75 minutes and will be offered twice at the times listed above.

Build Your Own Fairy Kingdom Introduce your children to the magical worlds in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This interactive workshop, open to children and their parents, explores elements of voice, movement, character and Shakespeare’s text all while students work together to create the physical world of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Fairies. The workshop culminates with an informal presentation of some of Shakespeare’s Fairy scenes from the play. Ages 8 and up. Enrollment is limited to 30 students per session and students must pre-register by calling (973) 408-5600.

Swashbuckling 101 An action-packed introduction to the art of Swashbuckling. During this interactive workshop, students will work hand-in-hand with the Shakespeare Theatre’s of New Jersey’s resident stage combat instructor to learn some of the basics of safe and believable swordplay. Ages 13 and up.

Enrollment is limited to 14 students per session and students must pre-register by calling 973-408-5600. The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Administration and Production Offices, 3 Vreeland Road, Florham Park

24 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Saturday, February 28 Mercer Discover Sherlock Holmes—A Family Event In anticipation of the world premiere of Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, you are invited to experience a series of activities which include Holmesian-themed crafts, acting games, and, of course, mysteries to solve. A fun and educational way to introduce your whole family to the legendary literary character of Sherlock Holmes. McCarter Theatre Center at Princeton Public Library Community Room, 65 Witherspoon St, Princeton [email protected] Recommended for elementary school | 2:00pm | Free

Monday, March 2 Essex Breakfast at Paper Mill Join us on the first Monday of the month for our morning theatre salon where interesting theater topics are explored over a continental breakfast. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn 973-376-1666 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 10:00am | Free but with limited capacity — reservations are required. Intergenerational Theatre Ensemble: Stand on the X Before you land your dream role, you must deliver a great audition. In a performance piece that utilizes scenes and songs from their class, Paper Mill’s Inter-generational Theater Ensemble, whose members range in age from 16-76, stand on the X and deliver their best. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn 973-315-1666 Recommended for high school | 7:30pm | Free but with limited capacity — RSVP is required.

Tuesday, March 3 Cumberland If You Give a Pig a Pancake In this performance, a young girl accommodates the demands of a quirky piglet after eating pancakes. Their adventure is just beginning as they take a bubble bath, tap dance, take a photo, mail a letter, build and decorate a tree house, and of course, go back for more pancakes! Centenary Stage Company at Vineland Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Avenue, Vineland 856-794-4244 x4246 Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free

Wednesday, March 4 Essex The Director’s Viewpoint Gain insight into The Hunchback of Notre Dame from the show’s director Scott Schwartz and Paper Mill Playhouse Producing Artistic Director, Mark S. Hoebee. Coffee is on us for this fun and informative gathering in the Art Gallery on the mezzanine level. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free

Reservations are required for most events. 25 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Thursday, March 5 Essex Conversation Club: The Hunchback of Notre Dame Enjoy an informal but informative pre-show gathering in the mezzanine, and learn about that evening’s performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free Ocean A Pocket Full of Rhymes Classic nursery rhymes are set to a catchy contemporary score that covers the range of 20th-century music. Mother Goose introduces the next generation to her “greatest hits” in this energetic musical revue. Surflight Theatre at Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library, 2 Jackson Drive, Jackson 732-928-4400 option 6 Recommended for all ages | 7:00pm | Free

Saturday, March 7 Morris A Midsummer Night’s Dream A fresh, imaginative performance of this perennial audience favorite. When starry-eyed young lovers and zany would-be actors cross paths with mischief-making fairies in a magical forest, the result is one of the world’s most uproarious comedies, and an ideal “first Shakespeare.” The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison 973-408-5600 Recommended for all ages | 11:30am | 1 free kids ticket available with each paid adult ticket. Tickets are $16 each. Macbeth Cryptic prophesies, mysterious witches, and vaulting ambition plunge a noble warrior into a maelstrom of deception, murder and eventual ruin, in this suspenseful adaptation of Shakespeare’s thrilling tragedy. The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s highly acclaimed and nationally recognized touring company returns with a new, gripping rendition of this Bard classic. The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison 973-408-5600 Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | 1 free kids ticket available with each paid adult ticket. Tickets are $16 each. Ocean If You Give a Pig a Pancake Please refer to March 3 for description. Centenary Stage Company at Waretown Library, 112 Main Street, Waretown 609-693-5133 Recommended for all ages | 11:00am | Free Stone Soup and Other Stories Story theatre at its best with four folk tales from around the world, providing a delightful introduction to theatre, as well as to the cultures and customs of different lands. Pushcart Players at Stafford Branch of the Ocean County Library, 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin 609-597-3381 Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Free

26 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Union Puss In Boots In this production, one clever kitty with fantastic footwear uses his brains to outwit a king and an ogre, all in an effort to help his master win the beautiful princess’ hand in marriage. Alliance Repertory Theatre Company at Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Avenue, Summit [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 12:30pm and 3:00pm | 1 free children’s ticket with each paid adult. Adult tickets are $15. $10 for additional children.

Sunday, March 8 Essex Theatre in the Loft Reading Experience a series of public readings of new plays and musical showcases. Audiences will have the opportunity to see new works in their beginning stages and be a part of the development process. Midtown Direct Rep at South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange 973-313-ARTS (2787) Recommended for adults | 7:00pm | Buy One, Get One Free with code STAGES Union Puss In Boots See Saturday, March 7th for description. Alliance Repertory Theatre Company at Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Avenue, Summit [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 12:30pm and 3:00pm | 1 free children’s ticket with each paid adult. Adult tickets are $15. $10 for additional children. Mi Casa Tu Casa A bilingual blend of music and folktales for the entire family. Musicians and storytellers are your guides on this unique journey through time, place, and imagination. Una mezcla bilingüe de música y cuentos para toda la familia. Los musicos y cuentistas serán sus guías en este viaje a travós del tiempo, lugares y la imaginación. Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre, 120 Morris Avenue, Summit 908-514-9654 Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Free

Monday, March 9 Union New Voices: New Works In conjunction with Rahway High School, American Theater Group will host playwriting workshops that will culminate in an evening of staged readings by professional actors. Following the performance will be a post-reading Q&A session. American Theater Group at Rahway High School, 1012 Madison Avenue, Rahway 732-499-8226 Recommended for high school | 7:00pm | Adults $10, Students free

Reservations are required for most events. 27 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Tuesday, March 10 Ocean Red Riding Hood & Other Stories An enchanting musical collection of the classic tales: “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” and “All’s Well That Ends Well,” told with a contemporary spin. Innovative settings and sing-along songs provide the perfect opportunity for involvement and participation in this fun theatre-going experience. Pushcart Players at Little Egg Harbor Branch, Ocean County Library, 290 Mathistown Road, Little Egg Harbor 609-294-1197 Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free

Wednesday, March 11 Ocean Stone Soup and Other Stories See Saturday, March 7th for description. Pushcart Players at Plumsted Branch of Ocean County Library, 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt 609-758-7888 Recommended for all ages | 3:30pm | Free

Thursday, March 12 Essex Conversation Club: The Hunchback of Notre Dame Please refer to March 5 for description. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free Ocean Red Riding Hood & Other Stories Please refer to March 10 for description. Pushcart Players at Manchester Branch Ocean County Library, 21 Colonial Drive, Manchester 732-657-7600 Recommended for all ages | 7:00pm | Free

Friday, March 13 Atlantic A Pocket Full of Rhymes Please refer to March 5 for description. Surflight Theatre at Richmond Avenue School, 4115 Ventnor Avenue, Atlantic City 609-343-7250 x7100 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 3:00pm | Tickets $3.00 Morris Aesop’s Fables: A Modern Adaptation Enjoy a modern look at Aesop’s Fables with this family-fun event full of action and laughs. Through these tales, a kooky cast of characters maneuver their way through life, learning valuable lessons along the way. Women’s Theater Company at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany 973-316-3033 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 7:30pm | Buy one adult ticket at $15 get one child free, extra child ticket $8 with code NJTA

28 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Ocean If You Give a Mouse a Cookie An adventurous, fun filled performance, complete with slap-stick comedy that’s guaranteed to produce belly-busting laughter. An innocent milk-and-cookie snack-time goes from mishap to calamity to catastrophe faster than the twitch of a whisker. Centenary Stage Company at Lakewood Branch Ocean County Library, 301 Lexington Avenue, Lakewood 732-363-1435 x2300 Recommended for all ages | 3:30pm | Free

Saturday, March 14 Atlantic Eagle Theatre’s Youth Summer Camp Preview! See what a typical day at the Eagle Theatre’s summer camp for young performers is like. The program is designed to teach all aspects of theatre including design, tech, acting, movement, and more. The preview day will host three sessions focusing on movement, improvisation, games, and additional camp class examples. Eagle Theatre, 208 Vine Street, Hammonton 609-704-5012 Recommended for elementary school | 12:00pm, 1:00pm, and 2:00 pm | Free Bergen A Day At Theatre Camp! Spark a lifelong appreciation of theatre by participating in a typical day of acting, voice, and movement at Theatre Camp. Students are able to use their creativity and imaginations as they experience all aspects of play production and develop their voices, bodies, and minds. The Garage Theatre Group, 960 River Road, Teaneck [email protected] Recommended for middle school | 10:00am | Free Original Musical Showcase Enjoy an evening of three new short musicals by composer Allison Leyton-Brown and Lyricist Sophia Chapadjiev. These musicals include: On Teeth and Longing, Theory of Kiss, and a third which is being created just for this presentation. Skyline Theatre Company at Bergen County Community College’s Ender Hall Lab Theatre, 400 Paramus Road, Paramus Recommended for high school | 7:00pm | For reservation information, visit skylinetheatrecompany.org | Free Mercer Family-Friendly “Inside Story” Pre-Show Workshop Immediately before all Saturday matinee performances of Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, theatre-goers may choose between a traditional “Inside Story” talk, or a 20-minute interactive, family-friendly workshop to prepare and inspire the young audience members before the performance McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton 609-258-2787 Elementary school | 2:15pm | Pre-show workshop is free. Tickets to the performance start at $20.

Reservations are required for most events. 29 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Morris Aesop’s Fables: A Modern Adaptation Please refer to March 13 for description. Women’s Theater Company at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany 973-316-3033 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm and 7:30pm | Buy one adult ticket at $15, get one child free, extra child ticket $8 with code NJTA Ocean Stone Soup and Other Stories See Saturday, March 7th for description. Pushcart Players at Barnegat Township Branch of the Ocean County Library, 112 Burr Street, Barnegat 609-698-3331 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Free Union Puss In Boots See Saturday, March 7th for description. Alliance Repertory Theatre Company at Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Avenue, Summit [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 12:30pm and 3:00 pm | 1 free children’s ticket with each paid adult. Adult tickets are $15. $10 for additional children. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Alexander is having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Not only does Alexander wake up with gum in his hair, his mother forgets to pack him dessert, and his best friend decides he’s not his best friend anymore. In this play, Alexander’s struggles with life’s daily dramas will not only entertain but educate young audiences as they identify with Alexander and the obstacles he encounters, encouraging them to share their feelings. Surflight Theatre at The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, 99 South Street, New Providence 908-464-8657 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 1:30pm | Adults $5, children under 18 free

Sunday, March 15 Bergen Holmes and Carter Mysteries-Radio Plays Step back in time with two different “who-done-its” presented as radio-style broadcast, complete with live sound effects and commercials, with two different detectives: Sherlock Holmes and Nick Carter. East Lynne Theater Company at Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Road, Mahwah 201-529-7323 x226 | [email protected] Recommended for adults | 2:00pm | Free

30 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Mercer Dialogue on Drama with Playwright Ken Ludwig Join us for an on-stage interview with celebrated and internationally acclaimed comedic playwright Ken Ludwig, who is known for his many Broadway hits including Lend me a Tenor. Directly following the March 15th matinee performance of Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, you are invited to engage in a moderated discussion and Q&A about Ken’s life, his adventures in theatre, and his specific approach to putting Arthur Conan-Doyle’s legendary sleuth and his equally memorable sidekick on the stage. McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton Recommended for middle school | 4:30pm | Free Morris Aesop’s Fables: A Modern Adaptation Please refer to March 13 for description. Women’s Theater Company at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road. Parsippany 973-316-3033 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Buy one adult ticket @ $15, get one child free, extra child ticket $8 with code NJTA Salem Austin the Unstoppable Eleven-year-old Austin, master of the X-Box and a junk-food junkie, must face the long-term consequences of an unhealthy lifestyle when he learns that his mother has been diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. This fun, upbeat musical engages audiences in the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise by celebrating how positive change can occur through the power of love, hard work, and support. George Street Playhouse at Appel Farm Arts & Music Center, 457 Shirley Road, Elmer 856-358-2472 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Adults $5, children free Union Puss In Boots See Saturday, March 7th for description. Alliance Repertory Theatre Company at Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Avenue, Summit [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 12:30 pm and 3:00pm | 1 free children’s ticket with each paid adult. Adult tickets are $15. $10 for additional children.

Monday, March 16 Ocean New Kid A play that addresses racism, prejudice, peer pressure, and conflict resolution — prompting its audience to explore issues of moving to a new place; being the outsider; making and keeping friends. George Street Playhouse at Island Heights Grade School, 115 Summit Avenue, Island Heights 732-270-6266 Recommended for all ages | 6:30pm | Free

Reservations are required for most events. 31 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Wednesday, March 18 Gloucester Red Riding Hood & Other Stories Please refer to March 10 for description. Pushcart Players at Woodbury Public Library, 33 Delaware Street, Woodbury 856-845-2611 Recommended for all ages | 3:30pm | Free Mercer Relaxed Performance of Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery A relaxed performance is one that has been adapted to provide a relaxed and safe environment for individuals with autism, learning differences, or other sensory and communication needs, so that these individuals and their families may enjoy live theater together. The quality of the production still aligns with high artistic standards, but small adjustments are made to certain technical elements (such as sound and light cues). In addition, at a relaxed performance, professional staff members from our partner organizations are on-hand to assist parents and caregivers, a family restroom is available, and there will be designated activity and relaxation areas in the lobby. McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton 609-258-2787 Recommended for all ages | 7:00pm | Tickets $25

Thursday, March 19 Essex Conversation Club: The Hunchback of Notre Dame Please refer to March 5 for description. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free Union 11th Annual Spring Reading Series Four plays selected from hundreds of submissions are given professional readings, providing listeners with an opportunity to see plays in a developmental forum, make suggestions to the playwrights, and support the creation of new work. Premiere Stages at the Zella Fry Theatre, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union 908-737-4092 Recommended for adults | 7:00pm | Free

Friday, March 20 Cape May Holmes and Carter Mysteries — Radio Plays See Sunday, March 15 for description. The East Lynne Theater Company, 500 Hughes Street, Cape May 609-884-5898 | [email protected] Recommended for high school | 8:00pm | 2 for 1 $25 ticket with code “Stages Festival Sent Me”

32 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Essex Newark Writers Festival — 2015 Selected works from Playwrights Theatre’s writing residencies will be featured in an evening of readings and performances with professional actors and musicians, as well as student performers from Newark Schools. Playwrights Theatre at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, One Center Street, Newark 973-514-1787 Recommended for middle school | 6:00pm | Free Mercer Schoolhouse Rock, Live! A good, clean, educational, and rockin’ performance that includes the same clever songs that taught about history, grammar, math, science, and politics from the Emmy Award-winning Saturday morning cartoon series. Surflight Theatre at Stony Brook Elementary School, 20 Stephenson Road, Pennington 609-737-4006 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 7:00pm | Adults $5, Kids under 18 free Morris Aesop’s Fables: A Modern Adaptation Please refer to March 13 for description. Women’s Theater Company at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany 973 316 3033 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 7:30pm | Buy one adult ticket at $15, get one child free, extra child ticket $8 with code NJTA Union 11th Annual Spring Reading Series Please refer to March 19 for description. Premiere Stages at the Zella Fry Theatre, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union 908-737-4092 Recommended for adults | 7:00pm | Free

Saturday, March 21 Cape May Holmes and Carter Mysteries-Radio Plays See Sunday, March 15 for description. The East Lynne Theater Company, 500 Hughes Street, Cape May 609-884-5898 | [email protected] Recommended for high school | 8:00pm | 2 for 1 $25 ticket with code “Stages Festival Sent Me” Morris Aesop’s Fables: A Modern Adaptation Please refer to March 13 for description. Women’s Theater Company at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany 973-316-3033 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm and 7:30pm | Buy one adult ticket at $15, get one child free, extra child ticket $8 with code NJTA

Reservations are required for most events. 33 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Ocean Stone Soup and Other Stories See Saturday, March 7th for description. Pushcart Players at Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library, 10 East Lacey Road, Forked River 609-693-8566 Recommended for all ages | 11:00am | Free A Pocket Full of Rhymes Please refer to March 5 for description. Surflight Theatre at Point Pleasant Borough Branch, Ocean County Library, 834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant 732-295-1555 Recommended for all ages | 11:00am | Free Union All-in-One Theatre Workshop Students will sample a variety of classes, from acting to improvisation to voice to dance in this introduction to Dreamcatcher’s Summer Theatre Conservatory. Ages 10 – 17. Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre, 120 Morris Avenue, Summit 908-514-9654 Recommended for middle school | 10:00am | Free — registration required 11th Annual Spring Reading Series Please refer to March 19 for description. Premiere Stages at the Zella Fry Theatre, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union 908-737-4092 Recommended for adults | 7:00pm | Free

Sunday, March 22 Cape May Our American Cousin — Staged Reading Experience a classic play with a unique tie to Abraham Lincoln and American history. This staged reading is a three-act comedy about an awkward but honest American, Asa Trenchard, who meets his aristocratic relatives when he goes to England to claim the family estate. The East Lynne Theater Company, 500 Hughes Street, Cape May 609-884-5898 | [email protected] Recommended for high school | 7:00pm | Free Mercer Family-Friendly “Inside Story” Pre-Show Workshop See Saturday, March 14 for description. McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton 609-258-2787 Elementary school | 2:15pm

34 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Morris Aesop’s Fables: A Modern Adaptation Please refer to March 13 for description. Women’s Theater Company at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany 973-316-3033 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Buy one adult ticket at $15, get one child free, extra child ticket $8 with code NJTA Union 11th Annual Spring Reading Series Please refer to March 19 for description. Premiere Stages at the Zella Fry Theatre, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union 908-737-4092 Recommended for adults | 3:00pm | Free

Monday, March 23 Ocean Schoolhouse Rock, Live! Please refer to March 20 for description. Surflight Theatre at Brick Branch of Ocean County Library, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick 732-477-4513 option 6 Recommended for all ages | 6:30pm | Free

Wednesday, March 25 Ocean Mi Casa Tu Casa Please refer to March 8 for description. Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre at Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School, 1200 Bay Boulevard, Seaside Heights 732-793-3996 Recommended for all ages | 3:00pm | Free

Thursday, March 26 Essex Conversation Club: The Hunchback of Notre Dame Please refer to March 5 for description Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free Ocean Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Please refer to March 14 for description. Surflight Theatre at Berkeley Branch of Ocean County Library, 30 Station Road, Bayville 732-269-2144 Recommended for all ages | 6:30pm | Free

Reservations are required for most events. 35 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Passaic Mi Casa Tu Casa Please refer to March 8 for description. Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre at The Giggles Children’s Theater at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, Seton 2, 703 Main Street, Paterson 973-754-4960 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free

Friday, March 27 Mercer Stoop Theatre — Our Trenton Stoop Theatre returns by bringing their newest show to the Mill Hill Playhouse in Trenton, NJ. This theatre troupe, made up of current and former students of Trenton High, will perform original pieces about their own, personal experiences living in Trenton. Passage Theatre Company, Front and Montgomery Streets, Trenton 609-392-0766 Recommended for high school | 7:00pm | Tickets for Adults: $10, Students: $5

Saturday, March 28 Bergen A Thousand Cranes The true and poignant story of tradition, friendship, and love follows a young Japanese girl who inspired an international peace movement. This production combines Japanese and American language, music, and dance, highlighting Japanese society in the aftermath of WWII. Centenary Stage Company at Wyckoff Public Library, 200 Woodland Avenue, Wyckoff 201-891-4866 option 2 Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Free Cape May Masks/Movement/Music: A Workshop in Theatre Exploration Students will have the opportunity to create a character, construct a mask, and move to a variety of music styles to discover the story behind their characters. A teaching artist will discuss the character choices with the students, who will then be given a chance to perform a one-minute number on stage with lighting and music they choose. Cape May Stage, Corner of Bank & Lafayette Street, Cape May 609-770-8311 Elementary school | 10:00am | Free — registration required Theater: As American As Apple Pie Artistic Director Gayle Stahlhuth speaks about the importance of East Lynne Theater Company’s mission, and the relevance of plays from the past that speak to today’s audiences. Cape May Stage, Corner of Bank & Lafayette Street, Cape May 609-770-8311 Junior High | 7:00pm | Free — registration required

36 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Visit stagesfestival.org for updates

Cumberland Red Riding Hood & Other Stories Please refer to March 10 for description. Pushcart Players at Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, 1501 Glasstown Road, Millville 856-825-6800 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 2:00pm | Free If You Give a Moose a Muffin In this hilarious sequel to If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, the young host is again run ragged by a surprise guest. Young people will delight in the comic complications that follow when the young host entertains a gregarious moose. Centenary Stage Company at Frank Guaracini, Jr. Fine and Performing Arts Center, 3322 College Drive, Vineland 856-692-8499 | [email protected] Recommended for all ages | 4:00pm | Free Mercer Family-Friendly “Inside Story” Pre-Show Workshop See Saturday, March 14th for description. McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton 609-258-2787 Elementary school | 2:15pm Stoop Theatre — Our Trenton See Friday, March 27th for description. Passage Theatre Company, Front and Montgomery Streets, Trenton 609-392-0766 Recommended for high school | 7:00pm | Adults: $10, Students: $5 Ocean Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Please refer to March 14 for description. Surflight Theatre at Long Beach Island Library, 217 S. Central Avenue, Surf City 609-494-2480 Recommended for all ages | 2:30pm | Free Somerset Plays by People: A Night of Staged Readings Come enjoy an evening of staged readings by the residents of the Matheny Medical and Educational Center. Actors and directors from Premiere Stages at Kean University bring to life the writings of Matheny’s residents. Premiere Stages at Matheny Medical and Educational Center/ Robert Schonhorn Arts Center, 65 Highland Avenue, Peapack 908-234-0011 x765 Recommended for college | 5:30pm | Free

Reservations are required for most events. 37 STAGES FESTIVAL EVENTS 2015

Monday, March 30 Ocean Tales from The Garden — A Celebration of the History and Folklore of NJ A collection of folk tales, facts, and prose from New Jersey, this celebration is a fun-filled journey through the rich history of the Garden State from its original settlers to its many legends—as well as some of the more unique roles New Jersey has played in American History. The Growing Stage: The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey at Toms River Branch, Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street, Toms River 732-349-6200 x5330 Recommended for all ages | 6:30pm | Free

Tuesday, March 31 Cape May A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court 5th and 6th grade students will attend a series of workshop sessions and present an adaptation of the Mark Twain classic A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, complete with costumes and sets. East Lynne Theater Company at West Cape May Elementary School, 301 Moore Street, West Cape May 609-884-5898 | [email protected] All ages | 7:00pm | Free Ocean Red Riding Hood & Other Stories Please refer to March 10 for description. Pushcart Players at Point Pleasant Beach Branch of the Ocean County Library, 710 McLean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach 732-892-4575 Recommended for all ages | 6:00pm | Free

Main-Stage Ticket Offering The Hunchback of Notre Dame March 4 – April 5 (US Premiere) Music by Alan Menken. Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The only stage collaboration between two giants of American musical theater, this intimate retelling of a famous love story inspired by the classic Victor Hugo novel has a lush, emotionally rich score that will leave you moved. Paper Mill Playhouse, Brookside Drive, Millburn Recommended for junior high 973-376-4343 Student Rush: $20 seats are available for all full-time students on the day of the performance. (Must show proof of age or a college ID if over 18. Based on availability). Call the Box Office to book tickets. All tickets are subject to additional box office fees. Cannot be combined with other discounts. Student rush excludes seats in “Prime,” ”Box,” ”Orchestra 3,” and ”Mezzanine 3.” Students rush tickets may be picked up from the box office 90 minutes before curtain.

38 Programs are subject to change. Check with venues to confirm. Search, Purchase, and Discover on Our New Website!

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