PROGRAM VOL. 32, ISSUE 1
SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER 2019
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Gr eat Fo od From Fr e s h Ingr e di e nts
VOLUME 32, ISSUE 1 | SEPT-NOV 2019
CONTENTS Calendar ........................................................................ 8 History ........................................................................... 9 A Message from the President & CEO..............15 The Piano Guys........................................................ 17 George Lopez ........................................................... 19 Jason Bishop: Straight Up Magic ...................... 23 Dream Theater ........................................................ 27 Tony Bennett ............................................................ 31 Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live ............... 39 Randy Rainbow Live! ............................................ 41 Rock and Roll Spectacular................................... 45 Blue Note Records 80th Anniversary Birthday Celebration ....... 49 Gifts to State Theatre New Jersey .................. 53 General Information.............................................. 58 Board of Trustees & Staff .................................... 59 Sightings at The State ........................................... 66
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Beautiful—The Carole King Musical — 11/8-10
SEPTEMBER 2019 10 21 22
Tue Sat Sun
8pm 8pm
The Piano Guys George Lopez State Theatre New Jersey Family Day featuring Jason Bishop: Straight Up Magic STNJ.org/FamilyDay
George Lopez — 9/21
OCTOBER 2019 11
Fri
8pm
20 25
Sun Fri
7pm 8pm
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Sat
3pm 7pm
Dream Theater—Distance Over Time Tour + 20 Years of Metropolis Pt. 2 Tony Bennett Carol Burnett An Evening Of Laughter and Reflection Mystery Science Theater 3000 LIVE No Retreat, No Surrender Mystery Science Theater 3000 LIVE Circus of Horrors
Tony Bennett— 10/20
Randy Rainbow Live! — 11/1
NOVEMBER 2019 1 2
Fri Sat
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Wed
8 9
Fri Sat
10
Sun
7:30pm 7pm 8pm
8pm 2pm & 8pm 2pm
Randy Rainbow Live! Rock and Roll Spectacular featuring Chubby Checker & The Wildcats Blue Note 80th Anniversary Tour featuring James Carter, James Francies, and Kandace Springs Beautiful—The Carole King Musical Beautiful—The Carole King Musical Beautiful—The Carole King Musical
Chubby Checker — 11/2
Kandace Springs — 11/6
FIND OUT FIRST—JOIN E-NEWS! Be the first to find out about just added shows at STNJ.org/enews.
BUY ONLINE: STNJ.org GUEST SERVICES: 732-246-SHOW (7469) 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ PERFORMANCES FOR SCHOOLS: 732-246-7469, ext. 545 8
WELCOME TO THE HISTORIC STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY! The start of a new season always brings us back to our historic roots. Opening in 1921, the State Theatre has been part a big part of the New Brunswick and Middlesex County community for a long time. From our early days as a silent movie/vaudeville house, to our reopening as a performing arts center in 1988 with just 25 performances, to now with over 100 performances, we have so many fond memories—not to mention generations of stories. George Carlin taped an HBO special, Pat Metheny shot a VH1 video, and Benny Carter won a a Grammy® for a live album—all recorded at the State Theatre. These are just some of the many highlights through the years. Here are some others you may not know: • December 26, 1921—State Theatre opens as “Reade’s State Theatre” with a screening of the silent film, White Oak. The first House Manager was Montgomery Moses, who previously managed Reade’s Capital Theatre in Trenton • 1930s—Bob Hope and Barbara Stanwyck make live appearances and the 250th anniversary of the City of New Brunswick is held on October 12 at the State Theatre • 1940s— Hedy Lammar and Walter Cronkite appear live at the State Theatre to pitch war bonds • 1949— Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo makes its State Theatre debut • 1950s—Now an RKO owned theater, the State Theatre presents a screening of the Orson Welles film, The Black Rose • 1961—State Theatre holds a coloring contest for tickets to see the movie opening of Disney’s animated film, 101 Dalmatians For more State Theatre history, watch PBS’s Treasures of New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey at STNJ.org/history
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
PHOTO BY ALEXANDRA PAIS
Dear Friends, I am so happy that you are here to join us for our 2019-20 season! The fall is always an exciting time for State Theatre New Jersey! It is the start of our season and we are busily working on all the ways we will share this beautiful venue and these amazing artists with you— our State Theatre family! Looking ahead, we have some great shows in store for you this season, including a fantastic Broadway lineup featuring Beautiful—The Carole King Musical, SpongeBob The Musical, and The Color Purple; and a captivating dance series with a thrilling Bach/Bowie program by Complexions Contemporary Ballet and the innovative California-based troupe, Diavolo. This season also features a superb roster of comedy, concerts, and family events including Jay Leno, Tony Bennett, Celtic Woman, Dinosaur World Live, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Blue Note 80th Birthday Celebration, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and Randy Rainbow. I look forward to these events and the many more that we will be adding in the coming months. To be the first to receive information on added shows, be sure to sign up for our e-news letter at STNJ.org/enews.
BEAUTIFUL— The Carole King Musical “NATURAL WOMAN.” SARAH BOCKEL (“CAROLE KING”) PHOTO CREDIT: JOAN MARCUS
Diavolo
Sincerely,
Sarah K. Chaplin President & CEO Ladysmith Black Mambazo
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with Special Guest the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey TUE, SEPTEMBER 10, 2019 AT 8PM
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THE PIANO GUYS
ABOUT THE PIANO GUYS With over 1.6 billion views on YouTube and sold out performances worldwide, Jon Schmidt and Steven Sharp Nelson from The Piano Guys bring their original mashups of classical crossovers to State Theatre in New Brunswick, NJ. As two talented musicians, pianist Schmidt and cellist Nelson have been performing together formally since 2011. Together they have appeared in The New York Times, People, BuzzFeed, Fast Company, Mashable, been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and performed on the TODAY show, Good Morning America, and The Tonight Show.
ABOUT THE YOUTH ORCHESTRA OF CENTRAL JERSEY Since 1978, the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey brings together some of the finest young musicians in our region to participate and excel in a nurturing and challenging musical environment. Over 200 elementary through high school students, all who take private lessons and participate in their schools’ music programs, make up its 14 performance groups. YONJ.org
With sold out shows from England to Japan, Jon and Steve are excited to perform a dynamic concert in an evening with The Piano Guys on September 10 at The State.
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GEORGE LOPEZ THE WALL WORLD TOUR SAT, SEPTEMBER 21, 2019 AT 8PM
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GEORGE LOPEZ
ABOUT GEORGE LOPEZ George Lopez’s multi-faceted career encompasses television, film, stand-up comedy, and late-night television. Lopez is currently on his stand-up comedy tour, The Wall World Tour, in arenas across the country. He also recently completed his standup comedy tour, The Comedy Get Down, with Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, and Cedric the Entertainer. The comedians also debuted their BET scripted comedy series based on their tour. Lopez was last seen in the film, El Chicano, alongside Raúl Castillo, Aimee Garcia, and Emilio Rivera. He is also set to star in Walking with Herb opposite Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell. The faith-based film is inspired by Joe S. Bullock’s novel of the same name. He recently wrapped shooting the upcoming crime thriller The Tax Collector with Shia LaBeouf and Lana Parrilla. David Ayer wrote the screenplay and directed the film. Lopez starred in Lopez on TV Land. Produced by Lopez, the series explored how he struggled between his two worlds and crises that are often of his own making. The half hour single camera serialized comedy aired for two seasons. For two seasons Lopez hosted Lopez Tonight, a late-night television talk show on TBS. This represented Lopez’s return to series television after co-creating, writing, producing, and starring in Warner Bros. Television’s groundbreaking hit sitcom, George Lopez, ran for six seasons on ABC. George Lopez remains a hit with viewers in syndication on both broadcast stations and cable’s Nick at Nite, ranking as one of the top-rated shows on the network and among the top five comedies and top 20 weekly programs in syndication. In 2015, Lopez was seen in the Lionsgate inspirational drama, Spare Parts. Produced by Lopez, the film is based on a true story about four undocumented Mexican-American teenagers from Phoenix who team up to build an underwater robot that wins the national robotics competition. In 2014, 20
Lopez starred in the multi-camera ensemble comedy, Saint George on FX, which he co-created. Lopez debuted his third solo stand-up special, It’s Not Me, It’s You, in 2012 on HBO. Lopez also voiced animated characters in a string of animated blockbuster films including Zook in Gnome Alone; Rafael in Rio and Rio 2 along with Jamie Foxx, Anne Hathaway, and Jesse Eisenberg; Thurman in Escape from Planet Earth opposite Jane Lynch and Sofia Vergara; Grouchy Smurf in The Smurfs 1 and 2; and The Beverly Hills Chihuahua 1, 2, and 3. His recent film credits include the box-office hit Valentine’s Day directed by Garry Marshall, River Runs Red, Swing Vote, Henry Poole Is Here, and Balls of Fury. Lopez has been featured in three HBO specials, The Wall in August 2017, Grammy®-nominated Best Comedy Album; Tall, Dark and Chicano in 2009; and America’s Mexican in 2007. Lopez also performed as part of HBO and TBS’s Comic Relief 2006. His acclaimed comedy concert, Why You Crying?, debuted on Showtime in 2004. He released his third standup CD, El Mas Chingon, in 2006, which also earned Lopez a Grammy® nomination in the category of Best Comedy Album. In 2004, he was nominated for a Grammy® in the same category for his CD, Team Leader. In May 2004, his autobiography, Why You Crying?, entered The New York Times Bestsellers List Top 20. The book was co-written by Emmy®-winning writer and sportscaster Armen Keteyian. Lopez released his second memoir, I’m Not Gonna Lie And Other Lies You Tell When You Turn 50, in 2013 where he tells the unabashed and hilarious truth about aging—as only he can. Lopez was also the focus of the award-winning documentary Brown is the New Green: George Lopez and the American Dream. In 2006, Lopez received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition, Time named him one of the 25 Most Influential Hispanics in America, and the Harris Poll named him one of the Top Ten Favorite Television Personalities.
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STATE THEATRE OFFERS SINCERE THANKS TO
FOR ITS GENEROUS SUPPORT AS LEAD SPONSOR OF THE STATE THEATRE FAMILY SERIES
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JASON BISHOP: STRAIGHT UP MAGIC SUN, SEPTEMBER 22, 2019 AT 11AM & 2PM
IN US AND BE SURE TO JO S FOR FREE ACTIVITIE Y DAY ! THROUGHOUT FAMIL
FAMILY SERIES LEAD SPONSOR
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JASON BISHOP: STRAIGHT UP MAGIC
ABOUT JASON BISHOP Jason Bishop has starred in two of his own Off-Broadway shows—Jason Bishop - Straight Up Magic and Jason Bishop Believe in Magic—both at the New Victory Theater on New York’s famed 42nd Street. He’s been featured on NBC’s Today Show, CW Network’s Masters of Illusion, Canada’s popular Breakfast Television Toronto, and Europe’s legendary Le Plus Grand Cabaret Du Monde filmed in Paris, France. The New York Times said, “How did he do that?,” and, “There’s real elegance and even wit in the precision of his gestures, the agility of each Finger.” From his astounding “Cage Levitation” and “Walking Through a Brick Wall” to his cutting edge “Teleportation” and “Plasma” illusions, Bishop features stunning and original state-of-the-art magic. One thing that distinguishes Bishop is his virtuosity. Each show features awardwinning sleight of hand, exclusive grand illusions, and close-up magic projected onto a large screen. No other illusionist showcases such a diverse array of talents. Additionally, the show is delivered with a modern look, attitude, and soundtrack. Bishop cuts through the usual hype and focuses on entertaining audiences with one remarkable illusion after another. With the wit and timing of a professional comedian, each routine is presented in Bishop’s unique style. This includes some pieces featuring many more laughs
than expected from an illusionist, while other effects demonstrate sleight of hand performed with precision and artistry. His performance abilities have led him from China to Paris and Hollywood to New York City; as well as every state in-between and over 30 countries on six continents. Some of Bishop’s awards and citations include the key to the city of Lake Charles, Louisiana; awarded the honor of a “Kentucky Colonel”; magic’s prestigious “Jack Gwynne Award for Excellence in Presentation”; and “Performing Artist of the Year” by the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities. He is also the only illusionist to have not one, but two productions in New York City at the acclaimed New Victory Theater. Bishop has entertained celebrities like Jordin Sparks, Jennifer Aniston, Hank Azaria, James Spader, and Jason Alexander, among others. Bishop’s combination of fast paced illusions, music, comedy, sleight of hand, and audience participation has landed him in notable venues, including Hollywood’s famous Magic Castle; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis MD; LiveNation’s Bamboozle Festival; and New York City’s esteemed New Victory Theater to name just a few. Currently, Bishop performs in theaters and Performing Arts Centers throughout the United States, as well as private corporate events. You can see why he’s called America’s Hottest Illusionist.
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DREAM THEATER
DISTANCE OVER TIME TOUR + 20 YEARS OF METROPOLIS PT. 2 FRI, OCTOBER 11, 2019 AT 8PM
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DREAM THEATER
ABOUT DREAM THEATER Dream Theater will perform landmark album in its entirety alongside classic tracks and selections from their latest release Distance Over Time. Two-time GrammyŽ-nominated and millions-selling progressive music titans Dream Theater turn their attention back to North America with the next leg of the acclaimed The Distance Over Time Tour – Celebrating 20 Years of Scenes From A Memory. The next leg of the tour will kick off at the end of September and run through mid-November. The first leg of tour gathered plenty of critical acclaim and fan praise due in large part to the diverse setlist the band created. Dream Theater featured tracks from their latest release Distance Over Time (InsideOutMusic / Sony Music) and selections from their 30-year career along with a nightly celebration of the 20th Anniversary of their seminal concept
album Metropolis Part 2: Scenes From A Memory that the band performed in its entirety. The band will continue that trend on the fall tour to create an evening of over 2 hours and 45 minutes of Dream Theater at their masterful best making this a concert event to not be missed.
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STATE THEATRE OFFERS SINCERE THANKS TO
FOR ITS GENEROUS SUPPORT OF STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY AND TONY BENNETT
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TONY BENNETT
THE “I LEFT MY HEART” TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST
ANTONIA BENNETT SUN, OCTOBER 20, 2019 AT 7PM
SPONSORED BY
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TONY BENNETT
ABOUT TONY BENNETT
life, Bennett has been a dedicated pacifist and proactive humanitarian selflessly supporting many causes whose goals benefit the lives of millions. His love for his country has earned him the distinction of national treasure and the United Nations has named him a Citizen of the World as one of their foremost ambassadors. In 1999, Bennett, with his wife Susan Benedetto, a former public school teacher, founded Exploring the Arts (ETA) to strengthen the role of the arts in public high school education. ETA’s first endeavor was the establishment of the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts (FSSA), a public high school founded in 2001 in partnership with the NYC Department of Education. ETA continues beyond its commitment to FSSA to expand their support, and by the end of 2019, ETA will partner with 44 public high schools—in all five boroughs of New York City and in Los Angeles.
Tony Bennett’s life and philosophy is the embodiment of the Great American Story. Having celebrated his 93rd birthday on August 3, 2019, his career as the preeminent singer of the 20th and 21st centuries is unprecedented. He continues to be embraced and loved by audiences of all generations. Through his dedication to excellence and his insistence on quality, he has become the keeper of the flame by extolling the virtues and values represented by the Great American Songbook. He has been on the front lines of every major issue impacting the cornerstones of this country’s modern history. He has performed for 11 U.S. Presidents, is a World War II veteran who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and participated in the liberation of a concentration camp, and marched side by side with Dr. Martin Luther King in Selma to support civil rights. Throughout his
Through his artistry, Bennett has connected in unprecedented fashion with all
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generations of audiences. Tony Bennett has received 19 Grammy® Awards including the Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, two Emmy Awards, and is a Kennedy Center Honoree and NEA Jazz Master. In 2017, he became the first interpretive singer to be honored by the Library of Congress receiving The Gershwin Prize. Bennett is one of a handful of artists to have new albums charting in the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and now in the first two decades of the 21st century. He has introduced a multitude of songs into the Great American Songbook that have since become standards for pop music. In the new millennium, Bennett’s artistry and popularity was higher than ever and he has sold over 10 million albums in the last 10 years alone. In 2006, the year of his 80th birthday, his Duets: An American Classic was released. In celebration of his 85th birthday in 2011 the release of Bennett’s, Duets II debuted at #1 on the Billboard Album charts, making him the only artist at
the age of 85 to achieve this in the history of recorded music. Benentt’s collaborative jazz album with Lady Gaga, released in 2014, Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga: Cheek To Cheek, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 album charts making Bennett, at the age of 88, the oldest artist to have a #1 album…breaking his own previously established historical record. His latest album, with Diana Krall, titled Love Is Here To Stay, celebrates the music of George and Ira Gershwin. A visual artist all his life, Bennett has exhibited his artwork in museums and galleries around the world and three of his paintings are part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institute. He has authored six books, including his most recent, Tony Bennett: On Stage and In The Studio.
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44 Blackburn Road, Summit, NJ 07901 www.oakknoll.org
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RANDY RAINBOW LIVE! FRI, NOVEMBER 1, 2019 AT 7:30PM
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RANDY RAINBOW LIVE!
ABOUT RANDY RAINBOW Randy Rainbow is an Emmy®nominated American comedian, actor, singer, writer, and satirist best known for his popular series on YouTube, The Randy Rainbow Show. His musical parodies and political spoofs that have garnered him worldwide acclaim and in 2019 an Emmy® nomination for Outstanding Short Form Variety Series. Currently touring the U.S. to soldout shows, the influencer and internet sensation’s viral comedy videos, receive millions of views across all social media and digital platforms. His fresh take on politics and current events has led to interviews/profiles by venerable media outlets such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, CNN, NPR, ABC News, OUT, People, and Entertainment Weekly. In a recent article, Forbes Magazine pondered, “Why Randy Rainbow, The Muppets, and The Avengers Should Host the Oscars.” American author and media pundit, Dan Savage, called him “the best thing to come from the GOP race,” and “BRAGGADOCIOUS!” (his musical tribute to the first presidential debate of 2016) received 28 million views in its first two days. Rainbow (yes, that’s his real name) enjoys a star-studded fan base that regularly retweets and shares his work. Some of Randy’s most notable admirers include Hillary Clinton, Debra Messing, Mark Hamill, Jane Lynch, Ana Navarro, Barry Manilow, Ron Perlman, Rosie O’Donnell, Martin Short, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Steve Martin. Rainbow has written for numerous comedians, and the cast of NBC’s Will & Grace even performed his parody of “Officer
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2019 Emmy® Nominee
Krupke” (from the musical, West Side Story) at a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton. Rainbow headlined a concert at the Paramount Theatre in New York alongside Rosie O’Donnell and was featured in a musical commercial/campaign for Orbitz opposite Margaret Cho. Rainbow also created and starred in multiple hit web series for BroadwayWorld.com and hosted and performed in numerous theatrical events for the Broadway, cabaret, and gay communities, as well as for the Tony® Awards. He has performed at some of New York City’s most popular night spots including 54 Below and Birdland Jazz Club and appeared on RuPaul’s Drag Race and Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live. He is heard regularly as both a guest and co-host on Sirius XM Radio and recently starred in New York City Center’s Encores production of Call Me Madam, whose score The New York Times called “fresh, light, and beguiling.” Rainbow says that’s what also drew him to the role, “Let’s face it, these past two and a half years in politics have been anything but fresh, light, and beguiling.”
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ROCK AND ROLL SPECTACULAR FEATURING CHUBBY CHECKER & THE WILDCATS, THE DUPREES, JAY SIEGEL’S TOKENS, AND THE CAPRIS SAT, NOVEMBER 2, 2019 AT 7PM
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ROCK AND ROLL SPECTACULAR
ABOUT THE SHOW Rock and Roll Spectacular will transports audiences back to the wonderful era of the 1960s, reliving those amazing days through timeless music and its connection with the audience. CHUBBY CHECKER Checker grew up in South Philadelphia and formed a street-corner harmony group at age eight. He learned piano at Settlement Music School and went to South Philadelphia High School, where he entertained classmates, including Fabian Forte, with vocal impressions of Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis, and Fats Domino. After school, he worked at Produce Market, where his boss was so impressed with his customer’s enjoyment of Checker’s singing impressions that he had him record a version of “Jingle Bells.” By the summer of 1960, “The Twist” became a #1 hit, introducing the concept of couples “Dancing Apart to the Beat” and leading to a revolution in dancing with one dance craze leading to another (the Jerk, the Hully Gully, the Boogaloo, etc.), and Checker was at the forefront with “The Fly,” “The Pony,” and “The Hucklebuck.” Checker continues to push musical boundaries while performing all over the world. Checker looks and sounds young and continues his historic dance moves, partying with concert goers. THE DUPREES Known throughout the world for their romantic interpretations of some of the most beautiful love songs ever written, The Duprees possess a smooth yet powerful vocal quality and heavenly harmonies, evidenced in their many hits, including the blockbuster smash “You Belong to Me.” Other hits include “My Own True Love,” “Why Don’t you Believe Me,” “Have You Heard,” and “Exodus.” Their unique arrangements include doo wop harmonies combined with big band orchestrations. Although their romantic harmonies are second to none, The Duprees also present a dynamic stage show that energizes the crowd. 46
SAT, NOVEMBER 2, 2019 AT 7PM
JAY SIEGEL’S TOKENS Jay Siegel’s Tokens started as the LincTones in 1955 at Abraham Lincoln high School in Brooklyn. Siegel was the lead singer and Neil Sedaka was also in the group. They evolved into The Tokens in 1960 and had a top 15 hit and million seller in 1961, “Tonight I Fell in Love.” Their international #1 smash hit, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” followed. Unique in the history of pop music, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” re-entered the charts 33 years later and went to #1 worldwide again, stoked by its use in The Lion King movie. The new Lion King movie also features “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” Siegel continues to be blessed with his strong tenor voice and soaring falsetto.
THE CAPRIS The Capris are a doo wop group from the Italian-American community in Queens, New York whose name was derived from the Lincoln Capri automobile. In 1961, they had a smash hit, “There’s a Moon Out Tonight.” Their second hit, “Morse Code of Love,” was redone in 1984 by the Manhattan Transfer and became a big hit again. The Capris were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2007 for their incredible vocal harmonies.
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STATE THEATRE OFFERS SINCERE THANKS TO
FOR ITS GENEROUS SUPPORT OF STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY AND BLUE NOTE 80TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
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BLUE NOTE RECORDS TH 80 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION —THE STATE OF JAZZ 2019 FEATURING JAMES CARTER, JAMES FRANCIES, AND KANDACE SPRINGS WED, NOVEMBER 6, 2019 AT 8PM
UNDERWRITTEN BY
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BLUE NOTE RECORDS 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
ABOUT THE ARTISTS KANDACE SPRINGS Vocals and Keyboards Every so often a new singer emerges who’s able to assimilate multiple musical touchstones and still come off sounding remarkably fresh and unburdened by the past. Kandace Springs is one of those artists. The 30-year old, Nashville based singer, songwriter and pianist counts such stylists as Billy Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Roberta Flack, and Norah Jones as her heroes, but as evidenced by her sparkling Blue Note Records debut, Soul Eyes, mimics none of them. Springs eventually attracted the attention of Prince, who had heard her makeover of Sam Smiths “Stay With Me.” The music icon then invited her to perform with him at Paisly Park for the 30th anniversary of Purple Rain. She has since appeared on Ghostface Killah’s 36 Seasons, Aqualung’s 10 Futures, and Black Violin’s Stereotypes. Her second full length Blue Note album Indigo was released Sept 7, 2018. JAMES FRANCIES Piano Twenty-four-year-old James Francies is next in the long line of jazz pianists who have characterized the music of Blue Note. He has recorded and or performed with Christian McBride, Pat Metheny, Chris Potter, Robert Glasper,
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and Lauryn Hill, among many others. He also performed on Chance The Rapper’s hit single “No Problem” which went on to win two Grammy® Awards. In addition, he frequently fills-in with The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. JAMES CARTER Saxophone James Carter, performing here with his Organ Trio, is a 50-year-old Saxophonist from Detroit. He as recorded 18 albums under his own name while appearing on many more with artists including The Art Ensemble of Chicago, Ginger Baker (Cream), Kathleen Battle, Herbie Hancock, Wynton Marsalis, Madeleine Peyroux, and Marcus Miller, among others. The organ combo reigned for several decades as jazz’s meat-and-potatoes mainstay, a populist vehicle for blues-drenched blowing. In the hands of Carter, one of jazz’s most sophisticated improvisers, the organ trio is no less meaty and satisfying. But his virtuosic saxophone chops elevate the organ combo to a rarefied realm defined by delectable soul, a gourmet repertoire, and consistently inspired group interplay. Featuring the lithe and muscular keyboard work of Detroit’s rising B3 star Gerard Gibbs and the propulsive drum support of Motor City trap master Alex White, the multigenerational Carter Organ Trio is now in its 17th year.
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Become a Member Today and Start the 2019-20 Season Right! Your gift helps support State Theatre New Jersey’s non-profit mission to present the top national and international artists while providing free and subsidized admissions benefitting 40,000 underserved individuals of all backgrounds—including students from low-income schools, veterans, children on the autism spectrum, seniors, charities, and local families. Join our family of members today and you’ll also receive great perks to heighten your theater experience. EXCLUSIVE, MEMBER-ONLY BENEFITS INCLUDE: » Playbill listing » Ticket Concierge for » Pre-sale privileges priority seating » Guided backstage tours » Access to private » Meet & Greets of our historic theater Boraie Lounge » AND MORE!
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STNJ.org/JoinUs
DONATIONS TRANSFORM YOUR COMMUNITY Contributions enable the non-profit State Theatre New Jersey to present an incredible array of performances and educational programs to inspire and delight our diverse community— from Broadway to comedy, family events to concerts, orchestras to dance, and beyond. With the support of our generous donors we can continue to create extraordinary performing arts experiences that last a lifetime!
GIFTS TO STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY State Theatre New Jersey, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is deeply grateful to the many individual, corporate, foundation, and government supporters that gave to our Annual Giving Program from 8/27/18-8/27/19.
INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT LEADERSHIP BENEFACTORS Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies The Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders New Jersey State Council on the Arts PRINCIPAL BENEFACTORS The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation Magic 98.3 MAJOR BENEFACTORS Bank of America The Heldrich Investors Bank New Jersey 101.5 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation BENEFACTORS The Karma Foundation The Star-Ledger/NJ.com United Airlines WMTR - AM 1250 Wells Fargo
* Denotes Business Council member
SUSTAINING PARTNERS Accenture Thomas and Agnes Carvel Foundation Colgate-Palmolive The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey The George Link Jr. Charitable Trust Magyar Bank * The Curtis W. McGraw Foundation MetLife Foundation Miller’s Rentals New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism The Presser Foundation Gia Maione Prima Foundation, Inc. PSEG Foundation RBC Wealth Management The Rea Charitable Trust ROI-NJ * Socialfix The Wawa Foundation
SUPPORTING PARTNERS Anonymous BCB Community Bank * Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation Chubb Group of Insurance Companies Louis Cyktor Jr, Fords Corner LLC Deluxe Corporation Foundation ETC, Inc. Hamilton Jewelers * Kinder Morgan Foundation The Harold I. and Faye B. Liss Foundation NJM Insurance Group George A. Ohl, Jr. Trust Plymouth Rock Assurance PNC Foundation Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Sussan, Greenwald & Wesler * PARTNERS The DiLeo Family Foundation Gilbane Building Company Lyons & Associates, PC * Network Digital Office Systems, Inc. Rangam Consultants Inc. Roberts Florals The Arnold A. Schwartz Foundation Vitiello Communications Group 53
Members of the Chairman’s and President’s Councils enjoy an intimate performance by lyric tenor Vincent Ricciardi, including dinner, at the annual President’s Council On-Stage Evening held September 27, 2018. Photo by Mary Brown.
CHAIRMAN’S COUNCIL VISIONARY CIRCLE ($25,000+) Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Campbell UNDERWRITER CIRCLE ($15,000+) Andrew Chen and Heidi Mass Andrew J. Markey Margrit McCrane
DIAMOND CIRCLE ($10,000+) Mr. and Mrs. Omar Boraie Robert and Nadine DiLeo Doug and Diane Garback~The Garback Agency Richard and Larisa Leist Len Littman
Friend of The State Theresa Ragozine Todd A. Shamy and Joey Grinkley Matthew and Tracy Taylor Donna and Jack Walcott
Mr. and Mrs. John Fischer Mr. Fidel Garcia Thomas and Annette Griffoul Nancy and Craig Guiffre Mr. and Mrs. Timothy W. Harbison Robert and Wanda Hope David Kapulsky Perry and Debra Koplik Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Korbel Jordan Krantz Charles and Ruth Larsson Gabriel and Jacqueline Lavigne Andrew and Pamela Lovasz Celeste H. Lynn Dr. David and Margaret McIntyre Donna and Lance Miyamoto Ed and Lidia Moragas Patrick and Mary Ellen Morris Carlo and Michele Pascetta Richard A. Patt MD Linda A. Piscadlo Vincent and Laura Pungello Salvatore J. and Bernice A. Romano Frank Rubin & daughters, in loving memory of wife & mother Gail Rubin Mary A. and Sal Sisto Ms. Robin E. Suydam and Mr. Paul Corkery Scott Sweeney James and Norma Tignanelli Wendy Wiebalk and Steve Cahn
Steve Crane and Yammel SanchezOcana Vincent and Renee Davis Benjamin and Marie Del Vento Mike and Kate Downey Robert and Lily Erwin Barbara A. Fisk Steve and Ann Garvey Michael and Toby Gorlick Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Harkins Mitch Horowitz and Andrea Greenberg Horowitz Christian and Christine Jensen Irina Kanevsky Marylu Korkuch Ann and John Kosco Howard and Cheryl Malitz Dr. and Mrs. Douglas M. Masi Todd and Dana Mayo Roberto Silva Moreira and Mark McMahon Joseph C. Nastus Rita Paszamant Susan and Brent Podlogar Dr. and Mrs. Rabson Felipe and Debbie Rodriguez Janie and George Schildge Gregory Seaman Dr. and Mrs. Patrick Sinko Rona Solberg Peter and Maggie Stavrianidis Art Stevens Dr. William Terens Dr. and Mrs. P. Ashley Wackym Joseph and Kristine Yelencsics
PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL PLATINUM CIRCLE Howard Appelson, in loving memory of Joan Appelson Isa and Michael Beck Robert and Jane Berry Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin S. Bucca, Jr. Campbell Family Foundation Peter and Nancy Cornell Stephan DeMicco and Jeanne M. Fox Laurence M. Downes Mary Ellen Dundon E & G Foundation, in memory of George W. & Edith H. DeVoe Scott and Barbra Fergang John and Jeanne Fitzgerald Judd and Carol Hamlin James A. and Elizabeth E. Hance Ms. Eileen Harkins Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Hartnett Bill Herman Carolyn and Dave Horn Stephen K. Jones Joseph Light and Jim Kershner The Luckhowec Family Mr. and Mrs. Duncan L. MacMillan Richard and Cheryl McDonald Farryn Melton Kenneth G. and Jennifer J. Osterman Jaime Raskulinecz and Linda Varas GOLD CIRCLE Anonymous Paul Ashley Bryan Baugh Lauren D. Bercik, Esq. Hiam Boraie and Chris McDonald Steve and Cindy Brody Michael and Meredith Bzdak Deborah and Saul Curtis Russell and Stephanie Deyo 54
SILVER CIRCLE Brian and Lauren Agnew Don Amorosi and Doug Woelfel Joseph and Xenia Balabkins Gil Blitz and Tali Mendelberg Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bolanowski Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Ciatto
PATRONS’ COUNCIL GUARANTOR Anonymous Esta Aranoff Nikki Austin Carole J. Banfield Brother International Corporation Michele Shields Buono, in memory of George V. Buono Mr. Arthur Connolly Bill Conte and Kenny Whitworth Assemblyman Joe Danielsen In Memory of George Buchman – Mrs. Jean A Demko-Buchman Etta Rudolf Denk Alice A. DeVoe and John Szabo William and Constance Fortenbaugh Franklin Mutual Insurance Midge Golin Susan Goodin Ms. Ruth J. Crawford and Ms. Michelle Gorda Fran and Richard Habib Jean and Claude Heller Marti Kalko KPMG Nick and Michele Lombardi Janet Lonney John and Daina Lucs Robert W. and D. Nadine Mack Robin and Richard Marko Mr. and Mrs. Daniel McDonnell Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Thomas Oates Bonnie Petrock Timothy and Karin Shanahan Senator Bob and Ellen Smith James Tuttle
Dr. and Mrs. C. E. Van Norman Walmart Foundation BENEFACTOR Anonymous (2) Salvatore Abbruzzese Dr. Deborah S. Alexander The Auger Family, in memory of Blanche Auger Barbara Baier, in memory of Ralph and Barbara Voorhees Martha Barnett Phil Battista William and Nancy Beachell Mr. and Mrs. John A. Bradley II Richard P. and Joan Burt Kausar Chatoo Jennifer Connolly Richard Cooke Susan Cooper James and Joan Corbett S. Delp Exceptional Dentistry Staten Island Lian Brooke Farrer Bob and Lynn Fazen James Feeney Bruce Fromer Don and Kelly Gallagher Antoinette Gelmont Russell and Jill Gilkeson Ms. Margaret Grove, in memory of Ralph and Barbara Voorhees Robert Haake Nat Hanan and Warren Heck Todd Harvey Kevin Hoagland George and Ellen Horowitz Eric and Lisa Jager Cynthia Jankech Jerry and Barbara Judin Mary Ellen Kaulius Edward Kaylor Wayne and Debi Klokis Theresa Lanuto
Michael and Suzanne Lindemann Bruce A. Lowenhaupt Dr. Barry H. Lustig Ann Maher Chris and Lisa Maniaci Stephanie Martin Richard and Joan McCormick The Mero Family Carol Miller Mary Jane Motl Richard J. Moylan Richard Nawrocki Doris and Dennis O’Dea Russell and Janet Piparo Leo V. Priola, RN Carmen Randazzo Dr. Peter J. Schroeck and Dr. Alexander E. Pichugin Drs. Anthony and Rosanne Scriffignano Frederick and Kristen Sharp Matthew Stroh and Christine Clayton-Stroh Peter Tate Blanquita B. Valenti Angelo J. and Rosalind Valetutto Linda Van Derveer May Van Norman Dan Vickery and Carolyn Myers Camille Walker Seth Webber Dr. and Mrs. Jeffry Zavotsky PATRON Anonymous (2) John A. Anderson Todd B. Bates Patricia Blake Linda Borsuk Adelaide and Terry Brenner Gerald P. Campagna Mark and Stephanie Carey Audrey E. Carmeli Kawana Carr Laura A. Cisar and Robert Gowin Bruce and Robin Corini
Lenore and Harvey Feldman Kelly Fischbein Brian and Diane Fisher Deborah S. Freedman Elizabeth and Louis Garlatti Bryan and Susan Garruto Lois and Mel Gelade Paul Goldman Rebecca Greenbaum Gwendolyn and Michael Greenberg David and Virginia Hadland Dr. and Mrs. Michael A. Isnardi Jimenez Family Lawrence Katz Ravikanth Kolla Bernardette S. Larsen Susan and Nels Lauritzen Michael and Sara Levine Sharon and Lou Marczak Erica Masusock Larry and Pam Mayewski Stanley Mendelson, in memory of Isabelle Mendelson Donna Marie Monek Michael and Diane Moskal Barry and Marcia Nathanson Jonathan and Pam Nemeth Naomi Nierenberg Mr. Eugene F. O’Neill Ostrowitz & Ostrowitz, Esqs. Glenn and Judy Parker Evelyn Petercsak George F. Poppe III Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Post Ann and Robert Rafano Wilfredo and Maria Rivera Karen Schoenberg Stephan and Leslie Sekulich Barry and Lynn Sherman Jonathan and Linsey Short Irving and Claire Sinai Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sleppin Renee Sreenivasam Karen Steingart
JOIN THE BUSINESS COUNCIL FOR SPECIAL NETWORKING BENEFITS The Business Council is comprised of civic-minded business leaders committed to furthering State Theatre New Jersey’s mission, while creating valuable networking and distinctive sponsorship opportunities for companies of all sizes. Enjoy special benefits customized to meet your company’s giving priorities and business goals— including increased brand awareness, networking with like-minded decisionmakers, client and employee appreciation, and access to the best seats in the house. Join our Business Council today to take full advantage! For more information, contact Audrey Carmeli, Manager of Corporate & Foundation Relations, at 732-247-7200, ext. 546 or acarmeli@stnj.org. 55
PATRONS’ COUNCIL (CONTINUED) Thomas and Deborah Terracino Rein and Carol Uibopuu UFCW Local 464A Mr. and Mrs. Robert Valentine Lorraine Walsh Allan and Bonnie Warton Kathryn Welgoss FRIEND Anonymous (6) Gail and Jeffrey Aaron Larry and Beatrice Abrams Carol Adelman Reggie Alexander Janice Anastasia Tom and Marie Andreano Jennifer Augustine William Baggett, in honor of Farryn Melton Joseph Bakes Stephanie and Ed Bartz Myrna and Steven Berger Charles Billy Victoria Bixel Barbara Boland Sandy Book Mr. and Mrs. Osman Boraie Bill Braden Patricia Bratus William and Mavis Brier Jan and Gary Broder Joel and Ilene Brudner Joseph and Christina Bulman Ms. Lyndsey Rose Buren Leonard and Tamara Busch Mark and Frankie Busch Roger and Ute Bush Dan Cassidy and Jeff Wilkes Vincent and Francine Catanzaro Dr. & Mrs. James Cline Elizabeth Columbo Jane Conner Ahmed Cooper-Bey Ellen and Cliff Cramer Marie A. Curtis Kristine Dalrymple Henry and Amira De Fex Lisa DiCenzo and Theresa
Marsicovetere Nancy Duffy Egenton Family Sandi and Allan Ellis Lois and Mort Farrah Lenore and Harvey Feldman Lori and Bob Fink Robert Fischer James and Diana Flaherty Pete Forester William and Patricia Foster Bonnie and Sheldon Freidenreich Antonino and Claudia Fusaro Suzanne Gates Cary Gerold Karen Giacobbe Craig and Eileen Glaser Dr. Alvin and Joyce Glasgold Dr. Barbara Glazewski Kevin and Kathleen Golmont Warren Gooderman Brian Gould Daniela Guido Brenda Hagan Mary Hanna Christian Hanns Kristine Hansen Ray Hanson, in memory of Joyce John T. and Maureen Harrison Dean and Michelle Heide Lucille C. Heller Deborah Henry Alberto Hernandez Mr. and Mrs. Robert Higgins Peter and Sylvia Hinge Barbara Howard Harry, Kathy, and Kara Hudson Denise Iosue Kapraszewski Family Carol and John Kassay Leonard and Bonny Kelter Thomas Kerekes Steven Kfare Edna Klein Suzanne M. Klein Joyce Kosa
Patrons’ Council members mix and mingle with fellow theatergoers at a special, annual Donor Appreciation Event hosted by President & CEO Sarah Chaplin on November 15, 2018. 56
The Boraie Lounge is an exclusive space where members of the President’s and Chairman’s Council gather before performances and during intermission to greet familiar faces over cocktails and engage with fellow theater lovers. William and Eleanor Kover Jim Kuligowski Joanne Lagrecalic Miriam W. Lampen Sally LaPelosa Karen and David Levinsky Joan Lezark Amy Livingston Barbara and Milton Loeb Anthony Lopez Anne Otterbein Lyman Alfred Magro Robert Maher Thomas and Mary Marhevka John Mazzola C. McCormack Deborah Michael Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Miller Ms. Jill Morrow Pabak Mukhopadhyay Barbara Nathan Irene Ng Joan A. Nowicki Talib Nunnally Raffaele (Ray) Ocello Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Olson Eileen Opitz Marci Oslick Tom and Vickie Pais Cheryl Palent Ronald Park Shane and Camilla Patterson Pam Piotrowski Carmen Pizzuto Debbie Joy Polacik Robert J. Powers Robert S. Pritchett Dr. and Mrs. Paul E. Prodromo Dr. and Mrs. Norbert Psuty Christopher and Helen Quinn Joanne Ramundo Jo Ann and Tony Razzano Dr. Gregory Reinhard Dawn Roccaro Robert Rocco Buena Rosenbloom Judy and Abe Rosenstein
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ross David and Frumet Sachs Michael and Laurie Saks Josef and Susan Saloman Frank and Annette Santamaria Joseph and Theresa Savoia Karen and Andy Schmitt Ronald and Nina Schmitt Michele Senko John Seramba The Shaughnessy Family Patricia Shiffner Mary Sidorski Dr. Mark Siegert Dr. Francine E. Sinofsky Lynn Snyder Amy Sommer Eugene and Kathleen Soucek Drew and Ronnie Staffenberg Elaine J. Staley John and Alexis Stashkevetch Mary Steever Stephanie and Nana Barbara J. Stone Fred & Susan Stucker Liz Stathis Szatkowski Karol Tariska Michael Taylor Julia Temple Gary and Helene Tinkel Dr. Barbara A. Tocco Vincent Tseng Dalia I. Ubinas Susan Uhl Mr. and Mrs. Gus Vang Lisa Vaz Eric and Suzanne Westberg Lynne Wilkinson Dean Wilson Douglas Wilson John and Harriet Worobey Karen Yackanin Gabriel and Donna Yandoli Walter and Patricia Zatorski Judith Zone The Zych Family
THE ENCORE SOCIETY State Theatre New Jersey’s Encore Society honors those who believe in our mission and support us by including The State in their will, as a beneficiary of an IRA, retirement plan, or insurance policy, or by creating a charitable trust or other planned gift. We thank the following individuals for their vision and continued support. Connie S. Breech Gerald P. Campagna Alisson Canavera Andrew Chen and Heidi Mass Stephan DeMicco and Jeanne M. Fox Scott and Barbra Fergang John and Jeanne Fitzgerald
Friend of The State Doug and Diane Garback Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Harkins Bill Herman Richard and Larisa Leist Andrew J. Markey Kenneth G. and Jennifer J. Osterman
Laura L Rothkopf Irving and Claire Sinai Ms. Robin E. Suydam Linda Van Derveer May Van Norman Warren and Wendy Zimmerman
ENDOWMENTS Endowment guarantees financial stability by providing reliable income, year after year, to support State Theatre New Jersey’s programs, and is thus the perfect charitable investment opportunity for the donor who wishes to ensure permanence and excellence. Following are our endowed funds of $50,000 or more: Regina and John Heldrich Symphony Endowed Fund Betty Wold Johnson Endowed Fund J. Seward Johnson, Sr. 1963 Charitable Trust Endowed Fund
Robert Wood Johnson 1962 Charitable Trust Endowed Fund David Lloyd Kreeger Endowed Fund The New Jersey Cultural Trust Fund George F. Smith Charitable Trust
Endowed Fund Barbara B. Voorhees Symphony Endowed Fund Donna and Jack Walcott Symphony Endowed Fund
DONOR ADVISED FUNDS Donor Advised Funds are the fastest-growing giving method and tax-efficient way to manage your charitable donations. Make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants from the fund over time. Visit STNJ.org/support/donor-advised-funds to learn more.
EMPLOYER MATCHING GIFT PROGRAMS Multiply the impact of your contribution through employer matching programs. Matching gifts count towards your membership level giving you maximum benefits. Visit STNJ.org/support/matching-gifts to see if your company participates.
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS FAMILY OF DONORS! Members sustain our artistic programming and community outreach while receiving special privileges like advanced ticketing before the general public, invitations to behind-the-scenes events, exclusive Boraie Lounge access, artist Meet-and-Greets, show underwriting, and so much more! For more information on how to become a member, or the many other ways you can support State Theatre New Jersey, please visit STNJ.org/Donate. 57
GENERAL INFORMATION GUEST SERVICES: 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Information & Tickets: 732-246-SHOW (7469) Broadway Season Ticket Concierge: 732-247-7200, ext. 555 Fax: 732-745-5653 Guest Services Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm; Sat: 1pm-5pm; Sun: Closed unless there is a performance. On weekends, State Theatre Guest Services is open at least 3 hours prior to any performance we ticket. For all performances we ticket, Guest Services is open at least one half hour past curtain and open through first intermission, when applicable. ORDER ONLINE 24/7: STNJ.org FIRE NOTICE: The red exit sign nearest to your seat indicates the shortest routes to the street. In the event of fire or other emergency, please do not run—walk to the nearest exit. LOST AND FOUND: If you discover that you have lost something during the performance, please contact the Director of Event Services in the lobby or call the theater at 732-246-7469. CELL PHONES/CAMERAS: Please note that ipads, go pros, selfie sticks, tripods, monopods, cameras with detachable lens and recording devices are not permitted in the theater at any time. Guests who do not adhere are subject to ejection without a refund.
THEATER POLICIES: Guests who arrive after a performance has begun will be seated at the discretion of the Theater Manager during an appropriate break in the performance. Please note this may not be until intermission, so guests should always plan to arrive early. Guests who must leave the theater during a performance are encouraged to do so during a break in the performance, and are subject to being held in the lobby until another suitable performance break. Please be sure to have your ticket on you at all times. If you do not have a ticket to show you will be asked to leave. Food and drink are allowed in the theater for most performances, check with an usher before entering the theater. Outside food and drinks are strictly prohibited from entering the theater. Smoking and vaping is strictly prohibited in all areas of the theater. State Theatre New Jersey has a zero tolerance policy regarding aggressive or abusive behavior at any time at State Theatre. Guests who engage in fighting, throwing objects, using foul/abusive language or gestures, attempting to enter restricted areas or engaging in other behavior detrimental to the experience of other guests will be immediately ejected from the venue. Please refer to our guest code of conduct at: STNJ.org/your-visit/guest-code-of-conduct
STATE THEATRE ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES Only the orchestra level is wheelchair accessible. Patrons can make arrangements for accessible seating through the Ticket Office when purchasing tickets. The theater is equipped with an assistive listening system that improves sound clarity and ampli fication. The lightweight, wireless headsets may be borrowed free of charge at either coat check.
Large-print programs are available free of charge for most perform ances. Please request one week in advance: info@stnj.org. Deaf and hearing-impaired patrons may contact the State Theatre through the NJ Relay Service at (TTY) 800-852-7899. If you know someone who loves the arts and would benefit from these services, please share this information.
ADVERTISE IN OUR PROGRAM! Contact us today to find out how you can affordably align your organization with the excitement of live entertainment and put your company front and center among our growing customer base. For information, call 732-247-7200, ext. 534. 58
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Scott Fergang CHAIR John S. Fitzgerald VICE CHAIR Richard J. Leist TREASURER Peter Stavrianidis SECRETARY Hiam Boraie Luis De La Hoz Stephan DeMicco Etta Denk Robert J. DiLeo Douglas M. Garback, Sr. Craig J. Guiffre John Harrison Bill Herman Wanda Bryant Hope Farryn Melton Edward Moragas Robin Suydam Matthew Taylor Wendy Wiebalk, Esq. EX OFFICIO MEMBERS The Honorable James M. Cahill, Mayor, City of New Brunswick Ronald G. Rios, Freeholder Director, County of Middlesex ADVISORY COUNCIL Lauren D. Bercik, Esq. Saul Curtis Sharon Cyktor John Gantner Timothy W. Harbison Gabriel Lavigne Andrew J. Markey Richard McDonald Vincent Pungello Ernesto Quinteros James Tignanelli Jill Vitiello Jennifer Zimmer
STAFF ADMINISTRATION
DEVELOPMENT
Sarah K. Chaplin President & CEO
Linsey Short Deputy Director of Development
Marlene Canavera u Executive Assistant to the President & CEO
Lisa L. Patterson Capital Campaign Director
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Lian Farrer 9 Vice President of Education & Community Engagement Erik Stratton Education & Community Engagement Manager FINANCE Susan Levine Chief Financial Officer Patricia Lanza l Accounting Clerk & Volunteer Coordinator OPERATIONS Joe Stoltman u Vice President of Theater Operations Bill Riker Project Manager Tim Bailey Z Facility Manager Production Marian Zennie Production Manager Craig Werner 9 Master Electrician, Lighting Designer
Linda Van Derveer l Director of Major Gifts & Planned Giving Leah J. Anglum l Manager of Patron Relations & Development Operations Audrey E. Carmeli Manager of Corporate & Foundation Relations MARKETING & GUEST SERVICES Howard Levine Vice President of Marketing & Guest Services Marketing Kelly Blithe C Director of Communications Tracy Furr C Creative Director Jason Paddock u Director of Event Marketing Garry Owen l Sales Manager & Ticket Concierge Guest Services Don McKim C Director of Ticketing Services Raymond Dobrovolsky Guest Services Director Alison A. Hegarty l Guest Services Assistant Manager
Willie Weist C Chief Audio Engineer
Susan Blumert Z Guest Services Sales Associate
Michael G. Sivetz 9 Master Carpenter
PROGRAMMING
Richard Stanek 9 Head Technician
Simma Levine Programming Consultant
Roman Klima C Head Video Technician
State Theatre New Jersey is proud to be associated with the professional technicians of IATSE Local #21
William K. Pocsik 9 Head Flyman Front of House Jessica Trechak C Director of Event Services Dan Lyons u Concessions Manager
u l C Z 9
Indicates 5+ years of service Indicates 10+ years of service Indicates 15+ years of service Indicates 20+ years of service Indicates 25+ years of service
AUDITORS—Mercadien, PC, Certified Public Accountants 59
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ORDER NOW for the Best Seats
GeorgeStreetPlayhouse.org • 732.246.7717
LAST
SUMMER
DAYS OF
book and lyrics by STEVE KLUGER music by JASON HOWLAND direction and musical staging by JEFF CALHOUN
OCT 15 – NOV 10 Sponsored by the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation
GEORGE STREET PLAYHOUSE at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center 9 Livingston Avenue • New Brunswick, NJ 08901 David Saint, Artistic Director • Kelly Ryman, Managing Director
Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex County Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. 61
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Enjoy a fantastic meal at one of New Brunswick’s best restaurants and save! You pay only $20 for a $25 restaurant gift certificate at select restaurants when you add dining to your order. Catherine Lombardi* 3 Livingston Ave 732-296-9463 catherinelombardi.com
George Street Ale House 378 George St 732-543-2408 gsalehouse.com
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Harvest Moon Brewery/Café 392 George St | 732-249-6666 harvestmoonbrewery.com
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Sophie’s Bistro* 700 Hamilton St , Somerset 732-545-7778 sophiesbistro.net
Filippo’s Famous Pizza* 336 George St 732-846-9060 filipposfamouspizzanj.com
Stage Left 5 Livingston Ave 732-828-4444 stageleft.com
Fritz’s 115 Easton Ave 732-543-0202 fritzsnb.com
RESTAURANTS IN NEW BRUNSWICK UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. *Not eligible for the $20 for $25 in dining offer.
Save on Dining Today!
Order online at STNJ.org/Dining
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SIGHTINGS AT THE STATE
PRIDE NIGHT WITH GEORGE TAKEI State Theatre’s LGBTQ Community Engagement Committee celebrated Pride month this past June as the hosts of a Pride Party featuring a live band and drag queen Pissi Myles. The party took place before LGBTQ activist, actor, and pop culture icon George Takei took the mainstage for a talk about his extraordinary life. Above: State Theatre LGBTQ Community Engagement Committee with Pissi Myles. Top middle: State Theatre President & CEO Sarah K. Chaplin with Pissi Myles. Photos by Jeffrey Auger.
SCHOOL’S IN SESSION Comedian and actor John Leguizamo took us back to school on June 22 with his hilarious Broadway show, Latin History for Morons. Above: State Theatre Advisory Council member Gabe Lavigne and his wife Jackie backstage with John after the show. At left: State Theatre Ambassador Maria Rivera. Photos by Jeffrey Auger. 66
Proton therapy. The next generation of cancer treatment. Available at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s Laurie Proton Therapy Center, proton therapy is pinpoint accurate, allowing physicians to isolate problems in children and adults for fewer side effects and better results. That’s why RWJBarnabas Health has partnered with national experts from the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey to create the only center in New York or New Jersey that’s part of an entire campus devoted to bridging the gap between cancer and a cure. Learn more at rwjbh.org/proton
Let’s beat cancer together.
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