Welcome to the Jay & Linda Grunin Center for the Arts at Ocean County College! The Spring 2025 presenting season promises to have something for everyone. Come check out family shows by Seán Dagher (anyone like sea shanties?) and Kevin Spencer (anyone like magic?). Enjoy musical tributes from A Band Called Honalee and Stoned Soul Picnic. Also, Vance Gilbert (music & comedy) returns and Las Guaracheras (a salsa band) visits from Columbia. The OCC Repertory Theatre Company will stage three shows in the Spring, with both OCC students and seasoned performers. The Blauvelt Speaker Series continues with school shooting survivor David Hogg and former NY Giants running back and current sports TV and radio analyst/host Tiki Barber. Please join us around campus!
M
For over 50 years, I have called Ocean County home. It is where I began and grew my law firm with my late wife and law partner, Linda. It is where we started our family and where we cofounded the Grunin Foundation for the explicit purpose of giving back to the community which had afforded us so many incredible opportunities, both professionally and personally. Building collaborative and growing relationships is the cornerstone of who we are as a Foundation. We are honored to continue listening, learning, and growing with our wonderful nonprofit partners at the central Jersey shore and beyond. The Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts truly epitomizes so many aspects of what our Foundation is all about. It provides the ever-important connection between the Arts, educational programming, and dissemination of cultural resources. The Center’s commitment to the people of the central Jersey shore is evident, and we are so honored to be a partner in community with them.
Spring 2025 at a Glance
Beomjae Kim, Flutist .............................................................................. Friday, February 21
Seán Dagher ................................................................................................ Saturday, March 1
April Varner ..................................................................................................... Sunday, March 9
Ji in Yang, Violinist Friday, March 14
Amadeus March 14-23
Kevin Spencer: Magic for Everyone! Saturday, March 15
A Band Called Honalee Saturday, March 15
David Hogg Thursday, March 27
Las Guaracheras Friday, March 28
Stoned Soul Picnic Saturday, April 5
Tracey K. Smith Monday, April 7
Vance Gilbert Saturday, April 12
Boheme Opera of New Jersey Friday, April 25
Nat Adderley, Jr. Sunday, April 27
OCC Concert Band: The Music of Broadway, Movies, and TV............ Saturday, May 3
OCC Faculty String Quartet ............................................................................... Friday, May 9
Behn Gillece & Brian Betz ............................................................................. Sunday, June 1
Tiki Barber ......................................................................................................Thursday, June 5
Photo by Marconi Photography
A
essage from Jay Grunin
Renovation Update!
All main stage shows beginning January 2025 through May 2025 will be located in alternative venues on campus, including the Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre (Building 12; at the base of the ramp), the Gateway Lecture Hall (Building 101, room 104), and in our own Black Box Theatre. We are delighted to announce the expansion of the Jay & Linda Grunin Center for the Arts! This addition will feature an enlarged lobby and a new art gallery. While the Main Stage will be closed, we anticipate it reopening in June 2025, and we will provide regular updates on its availability. We look forward to sharing more details about this exciting transformation!
Jay and Linda Grunin Arts Complex
BEOMJAE KIM
The flute’s pure, soaring tone and agility have captivated composers for centuries, despite the challenge of writing without harmony. From baroque to modern styles, many have embraced this, creating solo works that express everything from gentle lyricism to vibrant brilliance. These pieces showcase the flute’s versatility and remain essential to its repertoire.
$10 Gateway Lecture Hall
SAT. MARCH
1
3:00PM
Seán Dagher is widely known for his recordings with the Assassin’s Creed video game series, including “Black Flag”. His renditions of sea shanties and other songs from the games have been streamed some 70 million times. His own Shanty of the Week video series receives thousands of views each week, and has a loyal following the world over. Seán will take the audience on a seaward journey through worksongs interspersed with a few sea-themed ballads, accompanied by Seán on Irish bouzouki. Audiences will be invited to sing the “crew” responses to some of the most popular songs in the genre, bringing everyone together for a community experience of singing and hollering! No previous shanty-singing experience is necessary. And “bad singers” are welcome–even necessary! Heave-away!
Adults: $24 Children: $18
Gia Maione Prima Foundation
Studio Theatre
SUN. MARCH 9 3:00PM
Award-winning jazz vocalist and composer April Varner, known for her curly red hair and “old soul” voice, transports listeners back to the golden age of jazz. Her viral videos featuring solo transcriptions, vocaleses, and a cappella renditions of the Great American Songbook have earned millions of views. April was the winner of the 2023 International Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition. This performance will feature Ella’s greatest hits and timeless classics.
Adults: $28 Seniors: $24
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon is made possible, in part, through the support of The Wintrode Family Foundation.
Ji in Yang Violinist
FRI. MARCH 14 2:00PM
The United Kingdom’s Musical Opinion described South Korean violinist Ji in Yang’s solo appearance at Cadogan Hall as ‘brilliantly played.’ She has performed with distinguished orchestras such as the KBS Symphony, Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra, Aspen Young Artists Orchestra, the Juilliard Pre-College Symphony Orchestra, and Atlantic Music Festival Orchestra, among many others. Ms. Yang will be performing solo violin works by Kreisler, J.S. Bach, Ysaÿe, Milstein.
$10 Gateway Lecture Hall
This event is made possible through the generous support of the Ocean County College Foundation.
PRESENTS
The
Magic of Kevin Spencer: Magic for Everyone!
Amadeus
by Peter Shaffer
Friday, March 14 7:30 pm
Saturday, March 15 2:00pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday, March 16 2:00pm
Friday, March 21 7:30 pm
Saturday, March 22 2:00pm & 7:30pm
Sunday, March 23 2:00pm
In the court of Emperor Joseph II, Antonio Salieri is the established composer— until Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart arrives. Salieri, who devoted himself to God in hopes of achieving greatness, is outraged as Mozart, a graceless and foulmouthed genius, effortlessly embodies the brilliance Salieri craves. Amadeus is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
Adults: $21 Seniors: $19 Black Box Theatre
SAT. MARCH 15 3:00PM
A fun, family-friendly show featuring award-winning magician Kevin Spencer. Blending storytelling, stage magic, and audience participation, this sensory-inclusive performance welcomes all audiences, including families with children with autism or sensory sensitivities. It’s a show for everyone to enjoy!
Adults: $20 Child: $15
Gateway Lecture Hall
This event is made possible through the generous support of the Ocean County College Foundation. Sponsored by
MARCH 15
7:00PM
A Band Called Honalee is a modern folk trio inspired by the legacy of Peter, Paul & Mary. Their lively, interactive performances bring timeless hits like “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Blowing in the Wind,” and “Puff the Magic Dragon” back to the stage, delighting both diehard fans and newcomers. With exceptional musicianship, stirring harmonies, and polished showmanship, the trio also pays tribute to folk legends like Bob Dylan, The Byrds, and Joni Mitchell.
$40
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
BLAUVELT SPEAKER SERIES
presented by
THURS. MARCH 27
11:00AM
Thrust into the world of activism by the largest school shooting in American history, Parkland survivor David Hogg has become a powerful voice of his generation. Urging Americans to “get over politics and get something done,” he advocates for electing morally just leaders, regardless of party. Passionate about ending gun violence, David’s mission includes increasing voter participation, civic engagement, and activism on a variety of issues.
Free* Gateway Lecture Hall
*Advance registration is required.
The Blauvelt Speaker Series is funded in part by the generosity of the late Bradford Thomas & Eleanor G. Blauvelt and The Wintrode Family Foundation.
Las Guaracheras is an all-female salsa sextet from Cali, Colombia, formed in 2017. Their objective is to amplify the female voice in Afro-Latin music and foster a more inclusive, diverse, and respectful cultural space. Combining vibraphone, percussion, bass, piano, and vocals, their vibrant performances inspire joy, reflection, and plenty of dancing! $24
Stoned Soul Picnic: Joni, Carole, Laura celebrates the groundbreaking music of Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Laura Nyro. Lead singer Diane Garisto has performed with legends like Paul Simon and Billy Joel and was part of Laura Nyro’s famous Harmony Group. Backed by a stellar band, Diane brings these Rock-and-Roll Hall of Fame icons’ timeless music to life in an exuberant live show.
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
12 7:00PM
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram described Vance Gilbert as “...the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god...”. Though he has released 13 albums, Vance truly shines in live performance. A fixture in the folk and acoustic scenes since the early ‘90s, he has shared the stage with legends like Aretha Franklin, Arlo Guthrie, George Carlin, and Anita Baker, among others.
$34
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
MON. APRIL 14 6:00PM
Tracy K. Smith won the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for her poetry collection Life on Mars, which explores human existence and the universe through themes of political urgency, tenderness, and wit. Smith served two terms as Poet Laureate of the United States, during which time she traveled across America, hosting poetry readings and conversations in rural communities.
Free* Virtual
*Advance registration is required.
This program is presented in collaboration with the Zoellner Arts Center.
This event is made possible through the generous support of the Ocean County College Foundation.
AFTERNOONRECITAL
Boheme
Boheme Opera of New Jersey will present an operatic concert featuring silvery-voiced Soprano Sungji Kim and versatile Bass Hyong Sik Jo, accompanied by pianist Sandra Pucciatti.
$10
2:00PM
SUN. APRIL 27
3:00PM
As Luther Vandross’ long-time musical director, Nat Adderley, Jr. composed hits like “Stop to Love,” “Make Me a Believer,” and the Grammy-nominated “Give Me the Reason.”
His many arrangements for Luther include “Superstar,” “Here and Now,” and “Never Too Much,” and he produced songs like “My Favorite Things” and the Grammy-winning duet with Beyoncé, “The Closer I Get to You.” Nat also produced Luther’s final project, Live at Radio City Music Hall
Adults: $28 Seniors: $24
Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon is made possible, in part, through the support of
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
The Wintrode Family Foundation.
Sungji Kim
Hyong Sik Jo
Opera of New Jersey
THE OCEAN COUNTY COLLEGE CONCERT BAND PRESENTS
AFTERNOONRECITAL
TV
The Music of Broadway, Movies &
SAT. MAY 3
7:00PM
Join the OCC Concert Band for a nostalgic journey through memorable music from Broadway, movies, and TV shows. Enjoy Broadway hits, John Williams scores, and favorites from Looney Tunes and Bullwinkle—music that’s sure to bring back fond memories!
Anthony Tafrow, Conductor
Adults: $24 Children: $14
TBD (See website for details)
FRI. MAY 9 2:00PM
Composed within a decade of each other, Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel’s string quartets constitute the two most important impressionistic works in the genre. Please join OCC faculty members Jee Sun Lee (violin) and DoYeon Kim (cello) along with guest artists Hyun-Joon Shin (violin), and Mitsuru Kubo (viola) to celebrate these wonderful pieces.
$10
Gateway Lecture Hall
This event is made possible through the generous support of the Ocean County College Foundation.
BLAUVELT SPEAKER SERIES
SUN. JUNE 1
3:00PM
Join us for an afternoon of music with vibraphonist Behn Gillece and guitarist Brian Betz. Gillece, known for his virtuosic skill and prolific compositions, draws inspiration from jazz greats like Milt Jackson and Bobby Hutcherson. Betz, a versatile guitarist, composer, and educator from the Philadelphia area, has performed across the U.S. with a wide range of musical talents. Don’t miss this dynamic duo!
Adults: $28 Seniors: $24
Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre
Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon is made possible, in part, through the support of The Wintrode Family Foundation.
THURS. JUNE 5
6:00PM
Tiki Barber is a national media personality and NFL analyst for CBS, and co-host of Evan and Tiki on WFAN. He previously co-hosted Tiki and Tierney and was a correspondent for NBC’s The Today Show and Football Night in America. A three-time Pro Bowler during his 10-year NFL career with the New York Giants, Barber is the team’s all-time leading rusher and a member of their Ring of Honor.
$19 Main Stage
The Blauvelt Speaker Series is funded in part by the generosity of the late Bradford Thomas & Eleanor G. Blauvelt and The Wintrode Family Foundation.
presented by
Schools ‘N Stage
The Grunin Center presents programming for kindergarten through college-age students that offers access and exposure to the arts, sciences, and fun! Contact Jaclyn Wood at 732-255-0400 ext. 2487 to have your students participate!
Kevin Spencer Residency
March 12-15
Performing Artist/Educator/Speaker
Kevin Spencer is an award-winning performer and the leading expert on the educational and therapeutic benefits of simple magic tricks. His programs will feature sensory-friendly performances, workshops for students and teachers, and interactive classroom experiences.
Las Guaracheras
March 28
11:00am student performance
Las Guaracheras is an all-women salsa sextet born in the city of Cali, Colombia in 2017. The ensemble´s cultural and artistic objective is to uplift a female voice within Afro-Latin music and build a more inclusive, diverse and respectful cultural space for all.
“Alaska’s Fiddling Poet” Ken Waldman Residency
April 8-10
Student performances and workshops available
Ken Waldman presents a multidisciplinary, interactive program blending music, writing, and critical thinking, with lessons in subjects like math and geography. Students will engage in writing activities and take home some of Ken Waldman’s work.
These programs are funded in part by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and a grant from the NJ State Council on the Arts administered by The Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission, the OCC Foundation, Arts for Everyone Fund, a PAGE Grant administered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
The Robert J. Novins Planetarium is located on the Ocean County College campus. It unites students and visitors through immersive and engaging educational programs highlighting astronomy and science. The 103-seat dome theater serves as a gateway to learning about our earth, the solar system, and beyond. In addition to public shows, the Novins Planetarium offers programs for schools, camp groups, birthday parties, and special themed events. Visit us online at go.ocean.edu/planetarium or call 732-255-0343.
How to Buy Tickets
Online: grunincenter.org
Phone: 732-255-0500
Box Office: College Drive, Building 11A, Toms River, NJ
Box Office Hours for Spring 2025
Due to the lobby renovation, Box Office hours from January-June 2025 will be by phone only, Thursday-Friday, Noon-5:00pm, and one hour before show times in the lobby of the event venue.
Ticket Policies
A full listing of ticketing policies can be found by visiting grunincenter.org
Exchanges and Refunds
All sales are final. Members may be eligible for limited exchanges and refunds based on their membership level.
Ticket Fees
As of publication, a $4.00 per ticket processing fee applies to all orders, regardless of purchase method, and listed prices include this fee. Additionally, an optional $3.50 shipping fee is applied for shipped tickets.
Group Sales
Group Rates are available for most performances for groups of 10 or more guests. For more information, call the Box Office at 732-255-0500.
Accessibility
ADA wheelchair and companion seating is available.
Rental Presenters
Events marked as “presented by” are presented by individuals or organizations renting the Grunin Center and are not Grunin Center productions or events. The views and actions expressed in these works or performances do not necessarily reflect the mission, values, or practices of the Grunin Center for the Arts and Ocean County College.
Discounts
Discounts are available for OCC Faculty/Staff, OCC Students, Active and Retired Military, OCC Alumni, and Groups. For questions about available discounts, please contact the Box Office at 732-255-0500.
Laura Westmoreland Assistant Director, Operations & Production
Jaclyn Wood Assistant Director, Education & Community Engagement
Victoria Buczynski Marketing & Sales Coordinator
Bryn Farace Technical Production Manager
Benjamin Robinson & Brodie Thompson Technical Production Coordinators
Harriet Wood House Manager
Novins Planetarium Staff
Cara Muscio Associate Director
Kevin Molnar Planetarium Technician
Thomas Mellott Office Coordinator
Design & layout by Nicole Howard Graphic Design Specialist, Ocean County College
Sponsors
The Grunin Center thanks the following supporters and granting organizations for their support of the Spring 2025 Season:
Are you or your business interested in supporting the Grunin Center for the Arts? A variety of sponsorship options are available. Contact Heidi Sheridan at hsheridan@ocean.edu to learn more!
