SOPACNOW spring 2016
A publication of South Orange Performing Arts Center
SOPAC Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Ten years ago there was an old lumberyard by the South Orange train station. Not much to look at, and certainly no place to visit unless you were attempting a do-it-yourself project and needed supplies. Now, ten years later, that sleepy lumberyard has been transformed into a vibrant and beautiful performing arts center, presenting world-class artists and providing arts experiences for thousands of people in South Orange, Maplewood and well
beyond. There is no doubt that SOPAC has become an arts destination and is fueling the economy of South Orange and the entire region.
was the bedrock of bringing SOPAC into existence, and its continuing partnership is simply invaluable. Your unflagging vision has brought SOPAC to this exciting milestone.
It took a lot of hard work and commitment from so many to get here. We are grateful to everyone who put their time and treasure into ensuring SOPAC’s success. We deeply appreciate the tireless work of SOPAC’s Board, both past and present. South Orange Village’s leadership and support
As we look to the future, we know that the foundation for the next phase of success and stability rests squarely on our donors, members, patrons and volunteers, with our Board of Governors leading the charge. There are no limits to what we can all achieve together!
One SOPAC Way, South Orange NJ 07079 | www.SOPACnow.org
From the Executive Director We are in the home stretch of our tenth season, and what a season it’s been! We’ve been fortunate to present the most exciting roster of artists in our history with several more yet to come. This year will have featured luminaries such as Graham Nash, The Manhattans, David Bromberg, Regina Carter, John Hiatt, Arlo Guthrie, Tommy Emmanuel and Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues, to name but a few! We will set the record for the number of sold out shows in a single season. In the early Fall we’ll officially celebrate the end of our tenth year with a special gala party based on an event SOPAC held five years ago entitled Small Town, Big Talent, featuring artists from our own community on our Main Stage. It will be a jam-packed celebration and an evening of superb entertainment. As we begin working on our 11th season, we have already confirmed artists including the Average White Band, Chanticleer, John Pizzarelli, Donovan, David Sedaris, and Cherish the Ladies. We’re thrilled to announce that SOPAC has been named Favorite Small Performing Arts Center for the second year in a row in the JerseyArts.com People’s Choice Awards. You let your voices be heard in this state-wide competition, and we emerged victorious as a result of your support! As always, we’re interested in hearing from you about how SOPAC can better serve its audience and the community, so please write or call us and let us know if there are artists you’d like to see at SOPAC, or other ways we can engage the community. Write to me at mark@SOPACnow.org. Thank you so much for the myriad ways you support SOPAC — whether it’s attending performances, visiting our gallery or providing financial support to keep SOPAC humming. We are thrilled that SOPAC has become a vibrant cultural destination in northern New Jersey, the artistic heart of South Orange and an economic engine for our downtown. We look forward to the next ten years, and making SOPAC your home for the arts in New Jersey. Mark E. Packer Executive Director 2
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SOPAC Named as Favorite
in the People’s Choice Awards For the second year in a row, SOPAC takes the top honor for “Favorite Small Performing Arts Center” in the Discover Jersey Arts Jerseyarts.com People’s Choice Awards. Now in PEOPLE’S CHOICE its eighth year, this hotly contested AWARDS WINNER program gives arts organizations South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) “bragging” rights to be the favorite Favorite small Performing arts center for 2016, and the opportunity to get their supporters involved in the online voting process. From a field of eight organizations, SOPAC won with 3,086 votes — 1,180 votes ahead of the second place finisher. NJStage.com also sponsored a contest last fall and SOPAC took silver honors for “Best Place to See a Dance Performance,” and South Orange Village was awarded silver for “Best Arts District.” We thank all those who love, support and voted for SOPAC. The arts flourish in New Jersey because of you!
Adam Perle, President & CEO of ArtPride New Jersey Foundation with SOPAC’s Director of External Relations, Dee Billia.
The Inaugural
Inaugural SOMA Film Festival Makes February Debut When South Orange resident Matt Smollon contacted SOPAC with his concept for an independent film festival, it soon became evident that he had the background, and the enthusiasm, to make the festival a big success. He soon set to work, obtaining sponsors, building a website and screening submissions with a committee of industry professionals. The event began to take shape, boasting an impressive roster of long and short form narrative and documentary films, most notably Haze by David Burkman, Some Kind of Spark by Ben Niles and Among the Believers by Hemal Trivedi and Mohhammed Ali Naqvi. Despite temperatures in the single digits on the weekend of February 12–14, hundreds of film enthusiasts turned out for the kick-off party and two full days of cinematic fascination. “SOPAC is proud to partner in this exciting new venture. Film is such an important part of artistic expression and we welcome this opportunity to be a cultural destination for not only the performing arts, but for cinematic art as well,” noted SOPAC’s Executive Director, Mark Packer.
Matt Smollon and Mark Packer
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Spotlight on the sopac board chair
Jazz and Blues
Paul Bartick on Meatballs, Muppets and More! How long have you lived in South Orange and what drew you to the town? Shelley and I moved our young family to South Orange in 1995 to be near her parents. We believe it takes a community to raise a family and we didn’t want to be all alone in New York City without family nearby. I grew up in California and all my family is out west so that was out of the question.
Jazz and Blues artists often feel under-appreciated in mainstream America, but here at SOPAC it’s a lovefest for these dedicated and hard-working musicians. Since SOPAC’s beginnings 10 years ago, Jazz and Blues have been a very important part of the programming because of the unusually high population of musicians that live in the region. They can be heard at many local clubs and restaurants, and happily, on the stage at SOPAC as well.
What was the first SOPAC performance you attended? I think it was Sweet Honey in the Rock during the spring of 2008. I remember thinking how amazing it was to see such an internationally renowned act in such an intimate space right in our backyard. And those acoustics!
Mike Griot, a musician himself, programs the Blues in the Loft series, while Lee Boswell May, wife of the late-great Earl May programs the Jazz in the Loft series. They both bring a lifetime of knowledge, good taste and excellence to these roles, and we are proud to have them as part of the SOPAC family. John Lee, a South Orange resident and jazz musician, programs the annual Giants of Jazz concert. In November, Giants of Jazz 18 honored pianist George Cables. John works tirelessly to ensure there are plenty of great musicians on hand to pay tribute to the honoree. When not organizing Giants of Jazz, this celebrated musician travels the world playing concerts both near and far.
As a volunteer, what motivates you to put in so much time to help SOPAC? Oh, so many things. For starters, it’s just fun. Secondly, the SOMA community prides itself on its creative soul and I work to help make SOPAC the artistic hub of the community. When I first came to the board in 2011, SOPAC was not thriving, in fact it was barely surviving. Over the past 4 years we have turned the corner because of the work of so many people including Tony Leitner (former Board Chair), Mark Packer (SOPAC Executive Director), the amazing staff, the Village Trustees, our patrons, and our fantastic board. Our programming is strong and we even posted a small operational surplus last year. I gotta say, it’s a lot of fun being part of a winning team.
You mentioned former Board Chair Tony Leitner — what’s it like following in his footsteps? Tony and his wife Jennifer are angels. For starters Tony has been on the SOPAC Board since its inception, and he served as Chair since 2009. The importance of his leadership, business savvy, and contributions in intellectual and financial capital cannot be overstated. I am eternally grateful for all that Tony has done. And one more thing about Tony, I hear that SOPAC orange runs through his veins. What do you envision for the future of SOPAC? Where do you see SOPAC ten years from now? Ten years is a bit far out for my crystal ball. But I do have a vision for SOPAC in 2020. I see SOPAC delivering a robust arts education program to SOMA schools and beyond. I see SOPAC extending its footprint by developing residency programs in schools and serving other people with limited access to the arts. Finally, I see SOPAC continuing to be a powerful economic driver for downtown and the community. Last year SOPAC events pumped $1.5 million into the local economy and that will certainly grow every year.
run Meatball Obsession because of our experience together on the board. I know…it’s hard to believe. I teamed up with fellow South Orange Villager Dan Mancini and we use the recipes of his grandmother who came to this country from Bari, Italy in 1921. What draws you to the Arts? I’m drawn to the arts because I have no artistic talent. So I come to SOPAC and other venues to experience that sense of self-expression. What was your connection to Sesame Street and the Children’s Television Workshop? I worked at Children’s Television Workshop from 1988 –1995 which included the end of the Jim Henson era. It was a magical experience and Sesame Street is still one of my favorite shows. If you could invite one Muppet to the SOPAC stage who would it be? No question about it…Animal. He’s a frenzied drummer, if you recall, and I’d love to see him and his band Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem cut it up on the main stage. How cool would that be?
Tell us about your “Meatball Obsession.” Why meatballs? It’s true, I do have a meatball obsession and that’s why I run a chain of restaurants with the same name. Believe it or not, Meatball Obsession’s roots started at SOPAC. I sat on the SOPAC board with Carl Wolf, who is Chairman and CEO of Mama Mancini’s, and he asked me to help create and 3
2015-16 Season Stellar Lineup Brings Record-Breaking Attendance The 2015-16 season has shattered all previous records in attendance. Now averaging 83% capacity, SOPAC has become the hot ticket in the northern New Jersey region and is selling out an increasing number of performances. Not only are SOPAC’s audiences coming back time and again to enjoy great performances in what can only be considered the best “listening room” in the state, more and more new audiences are discovering that they can enjoy an intimate performance with some of their favorite artists in a venue that is one-of-a-kind.
olate dogs
An eclectic season started in August with the unusually named band Jazz is Dead— A Tribute to the Grateful Dead, and September saw The Manhattans, Jerry Douglas and the Earls of Leicester and Colin Quinn fill the theatre with outstanding music and comedy performances. The legendary Joan Armatrading sold out quickly as did David Bromberg, The Olate Dogs, Get the Led Out, The Nutcracker, Cherish the Ladies “A Celtic Christmas,” The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Eric Carle Favourites, Triple Threat Dance Showcase, An Evening With Graham Nash and An Evening with Cowboy Junkies. The satirist Fran Lebowitz and psychic Kim Russo “The Happy Medium” added to the diverse lineup and audiences delighted in the improv comedy of Upright Citizens Brigade—Touring Company. Still to come are the powerhouse Latin big band Juan DeMarcos & the Afro Cuban All Stars Featuring Members of the Buena Vista Social Club, An Evening with John Hiatt, Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant” 50th Anniversary Tour, Justin Hayward: The Voice of the Moody Blues, Dead on Live—Grateful Dead Tribute, new sensation Valerie June and guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel with Special Guest Richard Smith. There are still lots of performances to enjoy this season. We hope you will join us time and again to experience your favorite artists at SOPAC. 4
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tommy emmanuel
Colin quinn
the manhattans
martin sexton
rickie lee jones
nellie mckay
graham nash
get the led out
valerie june
Dance at SOPAC Shines With the continued support of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation and the Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust, SOPAC put together another exciting Dance Series for the 10th Anniversary Season featuring five New Jersey-based dance companies.
john hiatt arlo guthrie
dar williams
regina carter
Jerry Douglas presents The Earls of Leicester
In December, SOPAC presented the ever-popular holiday-themed Nutcracker, this year performed by the American Repertory Ballet and including guest appearances by none other than South Orange Village President Sheena Collum and Village Trustee and SOPAC Board liaison Steve Schnall. Collum and Schnall appeared in the party scene and were active getting the word out posting on their own social media, assisting SOPAC in achieving another two SOLD OUT shows. In February, the Main Stage was delighted to host the Triple Threat Dance Showcase with the African diaspora-inspired Umoja Dance Company, the boldly athletic and modern Freespace Dance, and Debra Mitchell’s joyfully infectious NJTap Dance Ensemble in one evening of diverse music and movement. A multi-generational audience showed their appreciation for the exciting performances. Finally in April, Atlantic City Ballet brings Bizet’s sexy thriller Carmen to the SOPAC stage, telling the dramatic story of the beautiful seductress through the breathtaking choreography of Artistic Director Phyllis Papa. SOPAC programs are made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Dance Performances at SOPAC are supported in part by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation and the Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust.
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Iris Family Donates Art to the Permanent Collection of SOPAC’s Gallery In November a dedication ceremony was held in the Gallery for the generous gifts bequeathed to SOPAC by beloved Board member, the Jeremy Iris-Williams, Roreé Iris-Williams late Milly Iris. and Kerry Iris at the November These dedication ceremony. extraordinary works of art were installed on the second floor mezzanine level and include a seven-foot sculpture, L’oiseau qui Marche, or “The Walking Bird,” and an oil painting, Femmes de Babylone, both by Theo Tobiasse. The very colorful pieces added a burst of excitement to the surrounding exhibition “An Artful Life,” featuring works from the collection of the Iris Family. Two color mixographs, Adam and Eve, by Rufino Tamayo, were also gifts of the Iris family. Friends gathered in the spirit of celebration to rekindle memories, share stories, and enjoy delectable fare from Diana Hart Fine Catering while honoring the “artful lives” of Herb and Milly Iris.
Femmes des Babylone 51” x 64” | Oil, Mixed Media, Theo Tobiasse
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L’oiseau qui Marche Mixed Media, Theo Tobiasse
Inspired Minds: Young Artist Exhibition Last summer the Community Engagement Department created an art exhibition featuring the work of Columbia High School art students. The juried show gave the students a professional artist’s experience through every phase of the exhibition process, from the submission process, to an opening reception, to selling their artwork. In addition, the exhibition was included in the South Orange Maplewood Artist Studio tour and received accolades, both for the concept and excellent quality of the art. The success of this project has now been enhanced by opening the process to all students from Essex County. More than 100 students from 20 high schools are participating this year, celebrating excellence in creativity among high school students. The opening reception for the 2016 Inspired Minds: Young Artist Exhibition will be May 11, 6–7:30 p.m.
Untitled 3, Digital Print Julien Hryshko
Figure 2 Charcoal, Acrylic Holly Hunking
Crude 48” x 36” Mixed Media Austin Romanaux
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Music in the Streets of South Orange Playin’ Around South Orange completed its third successful season in October and shows no sign of slowing down. This PNC Bank and SOPAC-sponsored project brings live music and art in the form of hand-painted pianos and outdoor performances to locations around South Orange for six weeks in the summer and fall, complete with weekly jam sessions under the Sloan Street Gazebo. This year the local event caught the eye of producers at the Emmy Award-winning NJTV program State of the Arts which features documentary shorts on an extraordinary range of artists and events. Playin’ Around South Orange fit the bill this season with its five different piano placements on the streets of the Village. Kick-off festivities featured live performances by professional musicians at each of the locations with artists in attendance at their pianos.
Many thanks to the extraordinary artists who painted these beautiful pianos!
Check out Playin’ Around South Orange on State of the Arts, NJTV http://www.stateoftheartsnj.com/?portfolio= playin-around-south-orange NY Daily News http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/pianos-exciteignite-perception-change-n-town-article-1.2353787
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Photo courtesy of Biddle&Bop
Bill Billec | www.BillBillec.com Larry Ciarallo | www.lawrenceciarallo.com Marie Glynn | Facebook - Marie Elena Glynn Lisa Hirkaler | Facebook - Lisa Hirkaler Anjolé King
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Investors Bank Foundation Increases Investment in SOPAC The Investors Bank Foundation doubled their commitment to SOPAC this year, awarding a grant for $10,000 in support of the School Performance series. This funding subsidizes ticket costs, allowing more than 1,000 students with limited access to the arts to attend a live performance at SOPAC. School Performances are selected to support the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards and to provide an engaging and enriching experience to students. Providing school children with the opportunity to experience live performances and interact with professional artists is at the heart of SOPAC’s mission to enrich individual lives and engage and serve the community. Thanks to the Investors Bank Foundation, more students from economically challenged communities can attend and participate in these valuable performing arts experiences.
Mathemagic
Additional funding for the School Performance series is provided by the Orange Orphan Society and the George A. Ohl, Jr. Charitable Trust.
Mathemagic super scientific circus
Frank and Lydia Bergen Foundation Funds Music Residency in East Orange Thanks to a $15,000 grant from the Frank and Lydia Bergen Foundation, 90 East Orange public high school music students will receive instruction from Juilliard-trained instructors in a residency program tailored to provide advanced classical music instruction while aligning with curricular goals. The Classical Music SOPAC/Juilliard In-School Residency Pilot Program offers students learning opportunities with high-caliber teaching artists, exposure to higher education options and a heightened awareness of classical music as a professional pursuit. This residency will foster the growth of SOPAC’s burgeoning Arts Education Program and gives the musically talented high school students in East Orange the chance to study with professional artists.
Fall Gala Under Construction Stay tuned for information about SOPAC’s upcoming 10th Birthday Bash coming this fall!
While we’re still confirming the details, it’s sure to be an exciting and unforgettable night.
Please let us know if you’d like to be included on the invitation list by e-mailing Kate Murphy at Kate@SOPACnow.org with the subject line “Invite me to the Gala!” We can’t wait to see you there! 8
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SOPACNOW
Thanks for the Memories Listen in on a conversation with some of the longest-running SOPAC staff and volunteers as they tell us a bit about themselves, share SOPAC memories, and think about how far SOPAC has come in 10 years. Sheila Corbin-Daniels, Box Office Manager: My duties include answering calls from patrons seeking to purchase tickets. I am also the first point of contact that a patron has with SOPAC regarding any information on any upcoming event and must be able to answer all their questions or point them in the right direction. Bill Perlman, House Manager & Volunteer: As House Manager, I guide the volunteers and make sure everything runs smoothly. As a Volunteer Usher, I tear tickets and stuff programs. Michael Guarnaccio, Head House Manager & Volunteer: As House Manager, I am responsible for the Front of House operations. As Manager on Duty, I oversee the Box Office, Bartenders, Merchandise Sellers, Security, and House Managers. Raf Ricci, Director of Production: I’m responsible for getting our productions set up, and ready to go at curtain time, safely, and efficiently. That means I’m communicating with our artists weeks out to make sure I have the right gear for them, the right number of stagehands, that our lighting is pointed in the right spots with the right color, and that we have the right snacks and hospitality arranged in our green room and dressing rooms. Alyssa Aronson, Volunteer: I am a Volunteer Usher and I help with events in the Loft. Valerie White, Office Manager & Bookkeeper: I handle everything office-related and human resources-related along with accounts payable.
What do you remember from your very first day at SOPAC? Alyssa: There was a big opening night party!
How does what you envisioned compare to what SOPAC is today? Alyssa: I am so pleased that SOPAC has become so well-known.
Raf: I remember thinking that the building would not be ready for opening. There were tools and parts and unfinished projects everywhere. And being nervous that my wife was going to go into labor at any moment.
Bill: It has become a wonderful “boutique” theatre that does amazing things with the seating capacity it has.
If SOPAC won a grant-making lottery (let’s say $100 million), what is the greatest thing we could accomplish with that money? Alyssa: I would like to sound-proof the loft, add more parking, and add more seats to the theatre.
Raf: I never imagined we could attract the caliber of artist that we can today.
Michael: It would be great for SOPAC and South Orange if we had additional parking.
Sheila: The chaos and not knowing how things were to be done and ultimately a lot of self-teaching to find out what would work best.
Sheila: There is no comparison. SOPAC is an intimate organization with big dreams.
Raf: Build a parking structure and add 800 seats. Well, for that kind of money, we could expand into the movie theater and do it, add flyspace over the stage, maybe add a kitchen and bar, additional lounge space…
Valerie: I remember everyone (staff and board members included) being so welcoming. What’s the most memorable SOPAC moment? Michael: A patron came to me at the end of a show and said this place is the best ever and your staff couldn’t do a better job! Raf: Sharing the back elevator with then Senator Barack Obama, on his way to the loft for a fundraiser. It was his first day with a Secret Service detail, which made things interesting.
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What keeps you having fun at SOPAC? Alyssa: I am a people person! I love interacting face to face with people. Bill: Meeting and interacting with people and seeing friends and neighbors when they come to a show. Raf: Every artist has a different challenge, like how do we feed 40 boys for Vienna Boys Choir? (Hint, it rhymes with “neetos” and is right behind the building.) Or, what special lighting effect can we make for Brian Stokes Mitchell? Or, how can we make GET THE LED OUT even louder?
Valerie: I would love to see improvements made to the building. If there was any way to increase the seating in the theater that would be a plus. Maybe add additional rooms for entertaining (a ballroom for galas, meeting rooms to rent) and additional office space.
Valerie: Laughing and joking with co-workers. We have a great staff! 9
Seton Hall University at Home on the SOPAC Stage SOPAC’s partners are important to its success, and one of the strongest relationships we have is with Seton Hall University (SHU). Located just one mile east on South Orange Avenue SHU brings eclectic programming to the SOPAC stage throughout the year. SHU’s Theatre Department has two productions a year. This past fall, William Congreve’s The Way of the World delighted audiences with scandal and intrigue. In April, SHU’s theatre department will perform the Stephen Sondheim classic, A Little Night Music. This delectable musical is based on the Ingmar Bergman film, Smiles of a Summer Night. The ever-popular song “Send in the Clowns” has its origin in the musical, sung by the main character in a moment of realization. The Seton Hall Music Department has several performances a year on SOPAC’s stage. These shows range from their Jazz Ensemble, to the University and Chamber choirs along with the SHU Orchestra. The music faculty performs annually in the spring. The Seton Hall Arts Council also brings in world class musicians through their Jazz ‘N the Hall and Classic Concert series.
arcos orchestra
South Next Celebrates Creativity
orlando consort
a celebration of slide hampton
seton hall faculty jazz ensemble
Visit www.SouthNextNJ.org for more information and to buy a pass.
Mark your calendars, festival-goers! Three days of creative collisions in arts, music and ideas return to South Orange Village from June 17–19, 2016. Now in its second year, the Festival brings the local community together to create unusual and exciting “collisions”of ideas, arts and science. SOPAC is a partner and many of the events will take place either in the theatre, Loft or other areas. The fun and activities will spill out onto the sidewalks and other welcoming venues in South Orange. Over 700 people attended the three-day festival last year, and more are expected to take part this year, according to festival organizer and Village Trustee Steve Schnall. Check in with South Next on Facebook for the latest updates! 10
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SOPAC’s appeal continues to grow… Like most performing arts organizations, SOPAC relies on contributed income for about 40% of its annual operating budget. And like many non-profits, SOPAC makes an annual appeal for contributions at the end of the calendar year. This year, SOPAC’s many fans came through with enthusiasm. Not only did we surpass our goal of $25,000 in donations, we exceeded it by more than 60%! What we’ve been hearing from many of you is how much you like the changes you’ve seen at SOPAC, and that you’re proud to be SOPAC supporters. Here’s what one donor had to say:
SOPAC had a $3 million budget in FY15, with just over 45% coming from contributed income. Donations and grants are critical to the success of nonprofit arts organizations, which cannot survive on ticket sales alone. Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theater, for instance, derive over 60% of their annual revenue from contributed income. As you can see below, SOPAC directs the bulk of its dollars towards programming to bring you amazing experiences in our main stage theatre, loft, gallery, and in the community. And remember, SOPAC not only spends locally, but by bringing in audiences from outside the community SOPAC pumps additional money into the local economy — over $1.5 million1 in 2015! To continue to bring you world-class artists in our intimate theatre, we need your support! Please join us by becoming a SOPAC Member today.
www.SOPACnow.org/support SOPAC FY15 Income
Other Income 23%
“ The new director you have in place has made such a difference in the programming — it is amazing…what a great performance and what a beautiful facility.”
Ticket Sales 31.7%
SOPAC FY15 Expense
Individual Contributions 22%
Programming 81.5%
Institutional Contributions 23.3% Operations 12.8%
Thank you for making our annual appeal a great success! 1
Source: https://artpridenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/09economic-activity-report.pdf
Fundraising 5.7%
The Loft at SOPAC There’s more to the Loft than just great jazz and blues performances! Did you know that you can rent the Loft for your meetings, seminars, parties and special events? There’s a brand-new parking deck opening at Valley and Third this spring, giving your clients, employees and guests ample parking just a short walk from SOPAC. Daytime hours are perfect for groups that meet on a regular basis, or training sessions for employees. Even financial managers can have information sessions for prospective clients! A screen for projections and internet access is available. The summer is perfect for a birthday or anniversary party, or even a small wedding reception! Weekends are usually more available during the months of July and August, and could be the perfect place to entertain friends and family. We can recommend several excellent caterers that work with us regularly.
If you would like to find out more about renting the Loft for your event, contact the Director of All Things Fun, Linda Beard, at (973) 382-1035. SOPACNOW
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Board of Governors Welcomes New Members Larry Brodey has been a South Orange resident for over 30 years. He is an entrepreneur who owns Durst Corporation and JACLO industries, a luxury plumbing manufacturing and distribution company. He loves to design plumbing fixtures and is an independent spirit. Larry’s gregarious personality, generosity and warmth endear him to his employees and customers. He says he loves the spirit of a family business and finds that same team quality at SOPAC. He has served on the boards of many non-profits for causes that are near and dear to him. He loves the arts, especially opera, the Giants and his wife and daughter. Not necessarily in that order! Paul Desjardins, D.M.D., Ph.D. is the principal scientist and President of Desjardins Associates, LLC a drug and device development consulting group in Maplewood, New Jersey. Desjardins Associates provides strategic and tactical advice for development of novel analgesic drugs and medical devices. He is also currently serving as Adjunct Clinical Professor, Dept. of Diagnostic Sciences at the Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine. He is considered one of the world’s experts in acute pain model development in humans and led over 50 discussions between sponsors and regulatory agencies related to drug development. Dr. Desjardins received his BS with honors in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the University of Rhode Island. He received his DMD from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and his Ph.D. in Pharmacology from Georgetown University. Jeremy Dobrish is a theatre director, playwright, teacher, and is a Creative Director at Proscenium where he has written and directed live events for Heineken, Yahoo, Walmart, The
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sopac Board of Governors Paul Bartick, Chair Edward E. Ayuso II, Vice-Chair Stuart Litwin, Treasurer John Zoubek, Assistant Treasurer Robert Sandow, Secretary Larry Brodey Lisa E. Davis Jeremy Dobrish Paul Desjardins Omari Frazier Maureen Gammon Diana Hart Milwood Hobbs, Jr. Joan F. Guetti Anthony Leitner Carolyn Mason Edward Reagoso Leo Sender David Stone Karlyn Volk Johanna L. Wright Deirdre Yates Jon Ziefert Bob Zuckerman
Maureen Gammon lives in the Montrose Section of South Orange. She and husband Fred have three children. She is currently President of Montrose Park Historic District Association. Born in Glasgow, Scotland she pursued a career in microbiology with a focus on Cancer Research. Maureen became a recognized expert in the design of cell biology laboratories at Imperial Cancer Research Fund, London; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston and at Merck Research Laboratories in Rahway, NJ. She also carried out research at these facilities and has authored or coauthored 22 scientific publications. Maureen has served on several Boards and is a lector at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in South Orange. Her hobbies include interior decorating, gardening and travel.
Deirdre Yates is Founding Dean of the College of Communication and the Arts at Seton Hall University where she was a theatre professor and director. She was classically trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts and The Catholic University of America. Dean Yates toured the country performing Shakespeare and has appeared in regional theatres from Seattle, WA to Washington, D.C. She performed at the Samuel Beckett Theatre in New York and is a company member of the Yates Musical Theatre for Children. Her directing credits with the Women’s Theatre Company in New Jersey have brought her critical acclaim.
Joan F. Guetti, Ph.D has been a faculty member in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Sciences and an academic administrator at Seton Hall University for over thirty years. She is currently serving as Senior Associate Provost at the University, and previously served as Interim Dean of the College of Art and Sciences. In her role as dean, she also chaired the Seton Hall University Arts Council. It was in this position that she was first introduced to SOPAC and became a member of the Board of Governors in 2010. She rejoined the Board in 2015. A resident of Highland Park, NJ, she is a wife and mother of three. She is also an amateur pianist and a growing fan of opera.
Bob Zuckerman is the executive director of the South Orange Village Center Alliance (SOVCA). SOVCA is a nonprofit organization that manages the special improvement district for the Village Center and is responsible for business recruitment and retention, streetscape improvements, events and marketing and business advocacy. Prior to coming to South Orange, Bob was the executive director for four years of the Lower East Side Business Improvement District in New York. Bob lives in South Orange with his husband Grant Neumann and their two cats, Ozzie and Willie, and is thrilled to be on the Board of Governors of SOPAC.
UPS Store and more. He is a six-time published playwright whose children’s musicals still tour the country. He was Artistic Director for Adobe Theatre Company for 13 years and has directed dozens of shows in NY and across the country. Jeremy is a founding Co-Artistic Director of Midtown Direct Rep. He moved to Maplewood in 2004 where he lives with his wife Beth, and daughters Clea and Quinn.
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Sheena Collum, South Orange Village President Steve Schnall, South Orange Village Trustee Liaison
SOPACNOW
Familiar Faces, New Roles
Mary Whithed, Director of Development
Celina Herrero, Director of Audience Services
Linda Beard, Director of all things fun
After serving as Director of Audience Services at SOPAC for five years, Mary Whithed moves into a new role as SOPAC’s Director of Development. She is the consummate professional, with superb writing and organizational skills, a detail-oriented work process, and a warm and engaging personality. Mary is a Hampshire graduate with a long history of working in the nonprofit arena. Executive Director Mark Packer commented “what I enjoy so much about Mary is that she has a mind like a steel trap, a terrific work ethic and a wry sense of humor. She has all the skill sets that will make her a phenomenal development officer. I couldn’t be happier to have her serving in this new role.”
Celina Herrero is in and of the South Orange community. She and her two daughters have lived in town for over ten years, and Celina has been a partner in the delightful Sparkhouse Kids in the downtown. Celina has served as a marketing consultant and customer service professional, and originally hails from southern Florida. She serves as Secretary of the Board of The South Orange Village Center Alliance, and speaks fluent Spanish and Portuguese. “Celina seems to know everyone in this community and everyone seems to know and love her” said Mark Packer. “Celina brings with her a commitment to make SOPAC a warm and welcoming environment for its audiences and patrons, as well as building a team dedicated to excellence in its interaction with the public.”
Alright, it’s embarrassing that we haven’t come up with a proper title for Linda yet, but the truth is that Linda does get to oversee a lot of the really enjoyable programs at SOPAC and she is responsible for so many. Whether it’s planning our gallery exhibits, overseeing Playin’ Around South Orange, managing our School Performance Series, coordinating our Poetry Out Loud competition for regional students, or handling celebratory events in the Loft, Linda manages each program with a sense of delight and finesse. Linda came up through the ranks at SOPAC, having worked in the development department managing our membership program, and then as Director of Community Engagement. According to Mark Packer, and echoed by all who work with her, “Linda is an amazing team player with a true sense of ownership for all the projects she handles at SOPAC, and she does it all with aplomb.”
contact us The SOPAC Box Office is open Monday-Saturday, 12PM-6PM and two hours prior to performances. Phone: (973) 313-2787
Administrative Offices are open Monday-Friday, 9AM-5:30PM. Phone: (973) 275-1114
sopac staff Mark Packer, Executive Director Mary Whithed, Director of Development Kate Murphy, Development Associate Dee Billia, Director of External Relations Kristin Svorinic, Marketing Manager
SOPACNOW
Matthew Petrassi, Marketing Intern Celina Herrero, Director of Audience Services Grayce Coviello, Volunteer & Performances Manager Sheila Corbin-Daniels, Box Office Manager
www.SOPACnow.org
Rentals: For information on renting the theatre or the Loft, contact Linda Beard at rentals@SOPACnow.org. Phone: (973) 382-1035 The venue is shown by appointment only.
Megan Derisse, Box Office Representative Michael Guarnaccio, Head House Manager Lyanisha Gonzalez, House Manager Conor McCarthy, House Manager Bill Perlman, House Manager
Lindsey Reams, House Manager Danielle Lindo, Merchandise Representative Lindsay Smetanka, Merchandise Representative Beth Fylstra, Chief Financial Officer Linda Beard, Director of All Things Fun
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Kellen Belt, Special Events Associate Valerie White, Office Manager Raf Ricci, Director of Production Matthew Silvay, Production Manager Michelle Craig, Artist Concierge Chris Figueiredo, Director of Operations
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2015 Donors $25,000 and up Edward E. Ayuso II & Family* Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation Patti Donovan The Gateway* Anthony and Jennifer Leitner New Jersey State Council on the Arts Village of South Orange
$10,000 to $24,999 Dan Arrighi and Sam Joseph Carol and Larry Brodey Frank and Lydia Bergen Foundation Thomas and Agnes Carvel Foundation Chubb and Son Investors Bank Foundation JACLO Laura and Stuart Litwin Nancy and David Fine Jewels Orange Orphan Society David and Nancy Stone Wilshire Grand Hotel*
$5,000 to $9,999 Bank of America Genova Burns* E J Grassmann Trust Diana Hart Fine Catering* Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust Bryna Linett and Peter Shapiro Carolyn and Mark Mason George A. Ohl, Jr. Charitable Trust PNC Bank Ricalton’s Village Tavern Fannie and Morris Sklaw Foundation Janet and Udi Toledano Jon Ziefert*
$1,000 to $4,999 Paul Bartick and Shelley Weinstock* Paul Breene and Miriam Peretsman Jean Campbell and Patrick Morrissy Samuel Convissor Etta Rudolf Denk Kim and Milwood Hobbs Iris Family Fund Joyce Isabelle and Robert Sandow Lowell and Lynn Jacobs Sarah Jane Jelin and Ed Schwarz Eleanor Lazarus Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation Mark and Laura Packer Carl and Phylis Peterman Edward Reagoso Carol Richards Ann and Mel Schaffer
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South Orange Performing Arts
James and Sharon Schwarz David and Sylvia Steiner Lynne and Vincent Toye Valley National Bank Karlyn Volk Wells Fargo Foundation Carl and Marion Wolf John and Roseanna Zoubek
$100 to $999 Anonymous Elizabeth and Michael Aaron Joshua Aaronson and Lori Resnick John and Karen Alexander Carole Anzalone-Newman and Douglas Newman David and Joani Ascher Diana Baker Bank of America Charitable Foundation Frank And Nina Barszcz Barbara and Edward Becker Allison Berry Dee Billia Katherine Bitgood Barbara and Leonard Bornstein Michael Botein and Kristina Fischer Ami Brabson and Andre Braugher Mary Brennan Donald Brief and Dorothy Litwin-Brief Edward and Flora Bryant Dr. Harvey and Joan Bucholtz Raymond Bulley William Byrnes Carolyn Dorfman Dance Company Michele Chiles-Hickman and Stanford Hickman Sara and Walter Clarke Ben and Joan Cohen Frederick and Margery Cohen Tom Cohn Julie Crotty Dr. Michael and Lisa Curi Robin Cutlip and Malcolm Gaspard Dance New Jersey Lisa E. Davis and Anthony Jamison Catherine and Paul Desjardins Stuart Deutsch and Holly Gauthier Carolyn Dorfman and Gregory Gallick, M.D. Helen and Jeff Dubowy Ellen Eagle and Gordon Leavitt Barry and Betty Ende Arden and Alan Epstein Ellen and Leonard Epstein Brian Falconer and Virginia Lamb Falconer Michele Farber Adrienne Feiger Sanford and Zella Felzenberg
from our many contributors.
Joy and Manuel Fernandes Howard Frankel and Warren Frankel Beth and Ralph Fylstra Frederick and Maureen Gammon Kim Barron and William Gallinghouse Mattye and Robert Gandel Brent and Wilma Garren General Plumbing Supply Kristin and Phil Gilbert Jennifer and Matt Glass Jessica Glass Mark Goldberg and Nicole Pivnick Goldberg Ellen and Richard Goldstein Jed Goldstein Thomas Gordon and Joanne Ng Annette and Myron Greenbaum Donald and Ellen Greenfield Donna and Michael Grohman Dr. Joan F. Guetti Mary Jean Gurzenda and James McIntosh Lois Guttadora Hardware Designs, Inc. R. Mitchell Halvorsen Amie Herman Andy Hoffman Glenn Hofmann Howard Holtz and Laura Prato Steven Horn and Daniel Zanella Bob and Diane Hyde Alyce and Steven Insler David and Diane Jacobs John and Linda James Mila and Neil Jasey Susan Johnson Genesia and Steven Kamen Dean and Emily Kameros Arthur and Harriet Kaufman Bob and Bonnie Kenselaar Nicki Kessler Edward Kirtman and Risa Schifter Caral and Robert Klein Betty and Lewis Krieger Brian and Kathy Kronick Gail and Ralph Laughlin James and Joan Lee Adam and Kelly Leight Dr. and Mrs. Robert Levine Andrew and Cynthia Lewis Mark and Melissa Litwin* Lynn and Rudolph Lopes Elissa and Hal Mandel Trudy Mazin McGowan Family Owen and Patricia McNany John and Kathleen McTague Richard Meade Gul Moonis and Syed Rizvi Francis and Mary Joan Murphy
Patricia Nathan Lawrence Neher and Deborah Prinz New Jersey Theatre Alliance Dr. Rick Nightingale Darryl and Sigrid Novak Barry and Bobbi Ostrowsky Bonnie Packer Christ Jean and David Palling Palumbo Associates Joseph Passero Janet and William Perlman Sean and Sharon Pidgeon David and Susan Pitman Lisa and Stephen Plavin Michelle and Steven Powell Alice Prine Fred and Susan Profeta Prudential Foundation Deborah and James Purdon Frank Rand and Missy Sullivan Ellen Relkin and Alan Rojer Allan Rosenberg Marc and Nancy Rosenwasser Malgorzata Roslanowska Laura and Stephen Sacks Salem Plumbing Supply John Santos Daniel and Vanessa Scanfeld David and Norma Schechner Michael Schlesinger and Carin Sigel Marc Schiffman and Rachel Schwarz Lindsay and Philip Scott Carol Lukoff and Sidney Seligman Barbara and Leo Sender Marianne and Stuart Sender Robin Sherer Gary Shippy Clinton Shultz William and Ursula Siberry Carol and Douglas Simon Alyson and Richard Slutzky Elizabeth and Joel Sobo Alan and Dana Sobel Dan Solender and Lynne Whitman Bart and Randi Solenthaler South Orange Village Center Alliance Nina Stack Karen and Stevens Stallsmith Karen Steinberger Sharon and Stanley Streicher Bill and Jenifer Strugger Alyssa and Saul Sutton Blanche Taliaferro Patricia Taronis Beth Teitel and Bill Torpey Dr. and Mrs. Jules Titelbaum Adena and Matthew Traub
www.SOPACnow.org
SOPACNOW
Center’s programs are made possible by generous support We extend our sincere thanks to all our donors. Caron and Craig Van Dyck Lisa and Tom Vilardi Duane Viola Mary Ellen and Robert Waggoner Hanie and Jerry Warshaw Cheryl and Howard Weiss Thomas Werder April and James Whithed Johanna Wright Ye Olde Rathskeller Young Audiences of New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania Your Part-Time Controller Frank and Mary Beth Zichelli
$65–$99 Ann Allen Anna Allen Michael and Theresa Allen Lakshmi Anand and Anand Sahasram Lori Applebaum and Eric de Picciotto Arline and Edward Babka Sean Bailey and Nancy Schwartz Christine Baker and Matthew Johnson Jed Baker and Beth Sklar-Baker Marsha Baldinger Alan and Peggy Barnett Katherine Barnhart Kirk Barrett and Peg McBrien Joe and Bambi Barry John and Kathleen Beard Richard and Meredith Bell Jonathan Bien and Mari Yamasaki Leslie Blatt Barbara Bour and George Finlay Carole and Joseph Bozzelli Linda Bradbury Laurie A. Breen Laura Bretzger and Paul McGrath Brown-Christenson Family John Bye and Christine Kachinsky-Bye Salvatore Carosone and Robert Fallar Susan Carruthers and Joseph Romano Vicki Carter Laura Carucci Dennis and Linda Cavanaugh Maude Chilton and Timothy Schmidt Alice Cohen and Jonathan Steinberg Mary Pat and Tom Colicchio Robert Conley Pio Consoli and Carol Mann Allyn Cooper Abigail and Donald Cotler Dan Crisci and Virginia Johnston David Crutcher and Sarah Vinas Dr. Robert and Mrs. Margaret Cunningham Dr. Charles Cutler
SOPACNOW
Ted Davis Katherine DeFoyd and Gordon Murray Jonelle and Tad Delk Sandra Dickerson Kyrsten Deanne Dixson Patty and Stew Docherty Michael and Pamela Donoghue Debra Downs Rebekah Dudley Amanda Eigen and Richard Kantor Susanna Einstein and David Zimmerman Carl Ellis and Gregory Tau Larry and Lori Feigenbaum Dr. Steven Feinstein Peter Feola and Anne Hartnett Elizabeth Fiedler and Aleksey Krylov Caryl and Ken Field Arnold and Gwen Foster David Frantz Pamela and Robert Friedman S. Fryberger Mark Garay Michael Gendel and Susan Napack Benjamin Geschwind Nina and Stevan Goldman Eli and Risa Goldstein Katherine Grantham Jay Grossman Monica and Steven Hafif Melissa Haft Joanne and Mark Hartwyk Nick Hawrylok and Rebecca Zlotnik Annette Hicks Kathy and Keith Hoovler James and Karen Horton Andrew and Karen Howell Jacques Hryshko Michele Hurley Michael Ibach Michael Jaffe Amanda Jaynes-Ray Ken Jewell and Kathy MacDonald Jack and Laurie Kahn Judith and Lawrence Kantor Kerry Keane and Liane Thatcher Craig Keaveney Patricia and Michael Kent Ian Kettles Ina Mae Kirsch Simone Klausner Alexandra Klein and Adam Seidman Andrew and Linda Kleinberg Stacy and Ron Krakower Laurie and Roger Landau Rick Lawall Ann and Seth Leeb Bruce Lefkon Nina and Steven Lerner
www.SOPACnow.org
Howard and Karen Levison Eileen and Robert Linarducci Rebecca Linn and James Rebhorn Monique and Todd Lurie Tatiana and Tim Lyons Randall MacBlane Ticiana Maloney Marie Manno Paula Marchese Janine and Richard Marks Eli and Maria Martinez Shari and Steven Mayer Leslie McCafferty Elizabeth McCarthy and Brian O’Leary Barbara Lewis McCarthy Jerry and Sue McElroy Merck Foundation Michael Metzger Cary Midland Manfred Minimair Allen and Venus Mui Kate and Robert Murphy Bruce Nagel Timothy Neumann Jules Nissim John and Kathleen Nye Erin and Geoff O’Brien Rose Oosting Doreen and Robert Panzer Jessica and Robin Payne Dina and Steven Pearl Jonathan Perelman, CPA Natalie Peretti Anthony and Maureen Phelon C.J. and Eva Pickering Larousse Pierre Susan Pulliam and Mark Voorhees Donald Pun Marcia Pundyk Robert and Robin Rabinowitz Morton and Nikki Rachelson Catherine Randazzo Tracey Randinelli and John Shabe Jeffrey Rappaport Michael Regan Geoff Richards Janet and Lee Roberts Roland Family Johnathan and Pamela Rosenbluth Mary Chris Rospond Gary Roth Timothy Rotvig and Harold Teetz David and Hallie Satz Cynthia and Robert Saypol David Schabacker Barbara Schlesinger Howard and Kathleen Schostack
*includes in-kind contribution
Barry Schrager Allyson and Michael Schwartz Marvin and Phoebe Schwinder Stephen Seidel and Beth Tractenberg Soraya Shalforoosh and Yanni Yahiaoui Alison Shames Pamela Shipley and Clay Turner Donna and Roy Smith Andrew and Sabina Soloway Stern-Thomasson, LLP Sam Stoloff Judith and Ronald Targan Henry Augustus Taylor Bernard and Yudit Terry Elizabeth Testa Garry and Jami Thall Diane Thomson Suzanne Thomson Han Tran Stephanie Tran Nancy Trewhella Terry Troia Nicole and William Wagener Danielle Walsman Abba Warshaw Dr. Andrew Weinberger Nathan Weisman Ken and Kristin Wenger Thomas Williams Suzanne Wolsten Alison and Thaddeus Yablonsky Jill and Richard Zimmer Banjo Lisa Zwier
And thanks to the many others who gave up to $64… SOPAC received gifts in memory of Daniel S. Allen Barry M. Barron Sol, Ruth, and Mildred Grossman Herb and Milly Iris Katharine Packer Tad Pepper Arthur & Charlotte Perelman Anthony Richards Arthur Roland F. Jack Spears
And in honor of Larry Brodey Jessica Glass David Stone
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Permit 7084 Newark NJ One SOPAC Way South Orange, NJ 07079
Jerseyarts.com
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS WINNER South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) Favorite small Performing arts center
SOPAC programs are made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
SOPACNOW
spring 2016 A publication of South Orange Performing Arts Center
www.SOPACnow.org
w
coming up at SOPAC
juan demarcos and an acoustic the afro-cuban evening with all stars featuring john hiatt members of the buena sun, MAY 1 at 7:30PM vista social club SAT, APR 30 at 8PM
valerie june SUN, jun 12 at 7:30PM