2019 Gala Spotlight Journal by State Theatre New Jersey

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY

saturday, june 1, 2019

a landmark event like never before!

honoring Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Leadership in the Arts Award

MetLife Corporate Award

honorary chairs Governor Philip D. Murphy and First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy

Building a strong community one production at a time. MetLife is committed to supporting organizations that enrich the lives of the entire community. That is why we are proud to sponsor the State Theatre New Jersey on their mission to deliver magical performances to all through the arts.

table of contents Message from the President & CEO....................................... 5 Message from the Chair of the Board..................................... 7 Message from the Gala Co-Chairs.......................................... 9 Leadership in the Arts Honoree: Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr............................................. 11 Corporate Honoree: MetLife................................................. 13 Gala Leadership.................................................................... 15 Gala Past Honorees.......................................................... 18-19 Gala Sponsors....................................................................... 21 Gala Underwriters................................................................. 23 Gala Auction Supporters...................................................... 25 This Evening’s Gala.............................................................. 27 About the Artists............................................................. 28-29 State Theatre Education & Community Engagement Programs................................. 32-33 State Theatre Board of Trustees and Staff............................ 61 General Information............................................................. 63 Credits.................................................................................. 65 Gala Advertisers Index......................................................... 71

State Theatre New Jersey exists to enrich the lives of people from diverse backgrounds in New Jersey and to contribute to a vital urban environment by: • Presenting the finest national and international performing artists • Providing arts education programs to inform and build future audiences • Providing a major performing arts venue in central New Jersey that encourages and enables members of the community to have a lifelong association with the performing arts

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

our mission

Willis Towers Watson is proud to support

Johnson & Johnson

and its long standing commitment to the 2019 State Theatre Gala willistowerswatson.com

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5/6/2019 7:01:48 PM

a message from the president & ceo

Dear Gala Guests, Even before I realized I wanted to have a career in the performing arts, I was drawn to the storytelling that I was fortunate enough to experience on stages large and small. Many years and many stories later, I am still drawn to the singular energy that exists within a theater’s four walls. The collective gasp or laugh or sigh of an audience, the burst of applause, the “oohs” of children as the lights go down and the curtain goes up—these are the sights and sounds that inspire all of us here. This feeling is even more powerful in a historic building at the heart of a community—like State Theatre New Jersey —where millions of people have appreciated these experiences over nearly 100 years.

We are so glad you are here to join us tonight to celebrate the special role State Theatre has played for generations of arts patrons with an intimate performance by the amazing Dee Dee Bridgewater. I hope this evening is a joyous example of the power of live performance that is at the center of our mission and purpose. Thank you for supporting our non-profit mission and ensuring the arts remain a vibrant part of our community! Best wishes,

Sarah K. Chaplin President & CEO

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

The theater is a place for boisterous celebration, heartbreak and redemption, driving rhythm, and mesmerizing movement. It is where we transcend our daily worries, expand our viewpoints, and even change our perspectives. It is also where we come together in a singular shared experience that cannot be recreated—ephemeral and yet cemented in our hearts and minds forever.

We are proud to continue our support of State Theatre New Jersey, A true “Treasure of New Jersey!” JOAN AND BOB CAMPBELL

a message from the chair of the board

Dear Friends, Welcome to State Theatre New Jersey’s 2019 Gala! The annual Benefit Gala is our most important fundraising event of the year and we thank you for being a part of it. The support of friends like you, who believe in our mission enables State Theatre to present renowned international artists, sustain arts education programs that enrich children from pre-K through grade 12, and continue to overcome the barriers to arts access. Tonight, we recognize and pay tribute to two exceptional honorees: Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. and MetLife. Their dedicated commitment has had a remarkable impact on State Theatre and the community for many years, ensuring the performing arts are accessible and affordable to people of all ages and backgrounds. I give our sincere thanks to both of our honorees for their exemplary leadership in philanthropy, stewardship of our non-profit organization, and their vision to elevate the arts across our region.

On behalf of the State Theatre Board of Trustees, staff, and volunteers, we thank you for your generous support and for joining us for this special evening of celebration. Sincerely,

Scott Fergang Chair of the Board

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

I would also like to express my personal gratitude to the entire Gala Committee for their hard work in making this event such a success. A special thank you goes to the Gala leadership team—Co-Chairs John Fitzgerald and John Reissner— for their unwavering commitment.

Simply Simply Roaring. Classical Classical

Tonight’s event is going to be

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STATE THEATRE GALA Magyar Bank, home of of Magyar Bank, home AND SALUTES

THIS YEAR’S is proud to support the the is proud to support

HONOREES, HON. FRANK PALLONE Classical Season Classical Season AND METLIFE. HERE’S TO A SIMPLY Celebration . Celebration. MAGnificent TIME.

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a message from the gala c0-chairs Good Evening State Theatre Gala Guests, We are delighted to welcome you to the State Theatre New Jersey Benefit Gala. Tonight, we celebrate 98 years of this historic treasure by stepping back in time to the theater’s 1920s origins. We are excited to see you dazzled during an intimate performance by Grammy® and Tony® Award-winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater and her accompanist, Bill Charlap. It is our privilege to serve as Co-Chairs of this year’s Gala, as we recognize the tremendous impact that this major non-profit arts venue has on the region’s cultural and economic vitality. We extend our deepest gratitude to the entire Gala Committee. We have seen their effort and dedication firsthand, as they’ve worked to put together a superb evening for all of you. State Theatre New Jersey’s long history and commitment to strengthening community ties mirrors the values that have been fundamental to Magyar Bank since its founding in 1922. We are proud to support State Theatre’s steadfast work to connect all of us through the arts and make world-class arts programming accessible to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

We raise our glasses to each one of you who joins us tonight in continuing to advance the non-profit mission of State Theatre New Jersey. Now get ready to foxtrot the night away! Regards,

John Fitzgerald President & CEO Magyar Bank

John Reissner Vice President, Marketing Director Magyar Bank

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

This year, we are pleased to present awards to two remarkable honorees who have done much to ensure State Theatre New Jersey’s past, present, and future success. For their extraordinary commitment to arts and culture, we give the Leadership in the Arts Award to Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. and the Corporate Award to MetLife. We give our sincere thanks to each honoree for their role in promoting the significance of live performance and arts education in our community.

Wishing everyone the very best for a wonderful evening celebrating our

State Theatre New Jersey Congratulations to the 2019 Honorees

Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr Leadership Award

MetLife

Corporate Award Senator Bob Smith Assemblyman Joseph Egan Assemblyman Joseph Danielsen 17th Legislative District

leadership in the arts honoree CONGRESSMAN FRANK PALLONE, JR. Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) has represented central New Jersey in Congress since 1988. On January 3, 2019, Frank Pallone, Jr. was sworn in for his 16th full term in the U.S. House of Representatives. Pallone represents New Jersey’s Sixth Congressional District, which covers most of Middlesex County, as well as the Bayshore and oceanfront areas of Monmouth County. In 2019, Pallone was sworn in as the Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee after serving as the Ranking Member in the 115th Congress. The Committee has jurisdiction over issues pertaining to energy, environment, health care, commerce, and telecommunications. Throughout his career, Pallone has been a leader in protecting the integrity of the Medicare guarantee and Medicaid programs, making the nation’s food system safer, strengthening laws to keep our air and water clean, making health care more affordable and accessible, and supporting initiatives that advance and protect the public health.

Frank Pallone, Jr., was born and raised in Long Branch, New Jersey, where he still resides. He is a graduate of Middlebury College, holds a master’s degree in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University and earned his law degree at Rutgers University. Pallone began his political career in his home city of Long Branch, getting elected to the City Council in 1982 and winning re-election four years later. In 1983, he was elected to the state Senate, representing the Monmouth County coastline and was re-elected in 1987. On November 8, 1988, at the age of 37, Pallone was elected to the House of Representatives from New Jersey’s former Third District and was re-elected in 1992 to the newly formed Sixth District. Pallone and his wife Sarah have three children; daughters Rose Marie and Celeste Teresa, and a son, Frank Andrew.

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

From 2006 to 2014, Pallone served as the top Democrat on the Committee’s Subcommittee on Health. As Chairman during the 111th Congress, Pallone played a key role in authoring and passing the Affordable Care Act. The landmark law extends health care coverage to millions of Americans, while driving down health care costs and reigning in abusive tactics used by insurance companies to deny medical treatment.

corporate honoree

MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates (MetLife), is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits, and asset management to help its individual and institutional customers navigate their changing world. Founded in 1868, MetLife has operations in more than 40 countries and holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com.

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

photo by Dan Salimbene

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Thank you for the joy.

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Johnson & Johnson honors the State Theatre New Jersey. Through the magic of live performances and arts education, you enrich our community. We are proud to be an Emerald Partner.

leadership & committee GALA CO-CHAIRS John S. Fitzgerald and John Reissner, Magyar Bank

GALA COMMITTEE

Maggie Stavrianidis, Elementis Global Wendy Wiebalk, Cahn & Parra, LLC

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

Dee Abedraboh, Investors Bank Hiam Boraie, Boraie Development Tim Brown, MetLife Saul Curtis, PricewaterhouseCoopers (Retired) Cathy Gombas, Johnson & Johnson Renee Davis, Johnson & Johnson Tara Gilvar, B.I.G Craig Guiffre, American Benefits Consulting Eileen Harkins, Johnson & Johnson (Retired) Bill Herman, Real Estate Management Gabriel Lavigne, UBS Richard T. McDonald, Johnson & Johnson Christine Mosier, Legislative Office, Senator Bob Smith Linda Piscadlo, Johnson & Johnson (Retired) Jerry Rose, Jerry Rose Floral + Event Design

One good cause. Many great eﬀects. One positive change often leads to another. At KPMG, we understand the tremendous impact one good cause can have across a community. That’s why we are proud to support the State Theatre New Jersey as it works to bring enrichment and education to people of all backgrounds in an historic venue. We applaud the Honorees of 2019 Gala, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. and MetLife. kpmg.com

ffirm off the KPMG net n work of inde independ pendent ent member er firms firms aff affilia iliated ted with KPM KPMG G International Cooperativ a e (“KPMG Interna ation tional”) al , a Swis wisss entity entity t . All All rights rights res r erve e d. Printed in the U.S.A. The KPMG name and logo are reg registered trad trademar em marks or or trademarks of KPMG International. NDPPS 871487

The Carpenter Contractor Trust Supports

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY

And we join them in honoring Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Leadership in the Arts Award and

MetLife

Corporate Award

Raritan Plaza II 91 Fieldcrest Ave, 1st Floor, Edison, NJ 08837 www.cctnynj.org | info@cctnynj.org Phone: 732-225-1300 17

Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Patron Honorees Diane and Douglas Garback, Sr., with Etta Denk of Bank of America (Corporate Honoree), before applauding artists Kool & The Gang.

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

2014 Corporate Honorees Madiha and Omar Boraie of Boraie Development, with Gala artist Frankie Valli, who starred alongside The Four Seasons.

1991 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002

The Honorable John Lynch Barbara and Ralph Voorhees Regina and John Heldrich Joan Schwartzman Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Herbert G. Stolzer Johnson & Johnson The J. Seward Johnson, Sr. Charitable Trusts Jackie Keller Senator Jack Sinagra The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation

2013 Patron Honoree Ann Asbaty, with her husband Lou, and Liza Minnelli (center), Gala performer. Ann accepted the patron award alongside Efrem Dlugacz. The two were Co-Chairs of the Gala for 9 years.

2003 Middlesex County and the Board of Chosen Freeholders 2004 James M. Cahill, Mayor, City of New Brunswick 2005 New Brunswick Development Corporation 2006 National Starch and Chemical Company 2007 PSE&G and Madiha and Omar Boraie 2008 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ and Andrew J. Markey 2009 CIGNA Company and Adelaide Zagoren

past honorees 2016 Patron Honorees Joan and Bob Campbell with Benefit Gala artist Martin Short (right).

2017 Patron Honorees Brent and Susan Podlogar with 2017 Gala artist Audra McDonald (center).

2016 A on Hewitt, Bob and Joan Campbell, and Greater Media NJ 2017 American Benefits Consulting, Brent and Susan Podlogar, and Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios and the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders 2018 Bank of America, Doug and Diane Garback, and Betty Wold Johnson

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

2010 Dr. Norman Reitman and Wesley O. Brustad 2011 William C. Weldon, Chairman & CEO, Johnson & Johnson 2012 Aetna, Russ and Stephanie Deyo, and Mason Gross School of the Arts 2013 Prudential, The Star-Ledger, Ann Asbaty, and Efrem Dlugacz 2014 Johnson & Johnson, The Blanche & Irving Laurie Foundation, Boraie Development, and J. Seward Johnson, Sr. 1963 Charitable Trust 2015 Investors Bank, Sharon and Louis Cyktor, and Warren R. Zimmerman

RWJBarnabas Health proudly supports the State Theatre New Jersey.

Clara Maass Medical Center Community Medical Center Jersey City Medical Center Monmouth Medical Center and The Unterberg Children’s Hospital Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Rahway Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset Saint Barnabas Medical Center Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center Barnabas Health Behavioral Health Center Children’s Specialized Hospital

rwjbh.org 20

sponsors The State Theatre New Jersey Board of Trustees and 2019 Gala Committee are grateful to the following sponsors of tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event.

DIAMOND PARTNER MetLife RUBY PARTNERS American Benefits Consulting Johnson & Johnson SAPPHIRE PARTNERS Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Campbell

EMERALD PARTNERS

At Time of Printing

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

Aetna Inc. Ballard Spahr LLP Boost Rewards The Boraie Family Russell and Stephanie Deyo The DiLeo Family/DiLeo-Bram & Co. Investors Bank Jerry Rose Floral + Event Design KPMG LLP Magyar Bank Mercer / Trion, A Marsh & McLennan Agency, LLC PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Prudential PSEG

We are proud to support the State Theatre New Jersey Gala. Congratulations to the honorees!

North Brunswick Branch 1500 Finnegans Lane North Brunswick, NJ Dee Ayesha Abedraboh, District Manager

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underwriters State Theatre New Jersey extends our deepest appreciation to the following donors for their support of tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event.

GOLD UNDERWRITERS Cahn & Parra LLC Alice A. DeVoe and John Szabo Bill Herman International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 456 Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. Andrew J. Markey Farryn Melton Donna & Lance Miyamoto STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

Pacific Resources Benefits Advisors, LLC RWJBarnabas Health

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silent auction supporters Aetna

Magyar Bank

Arthur Murray Dance Centers

McCarter Theatre Center

Ava Dlugacz

MetLife

BCB Bank and Vincent Davis

The Metropolitan Opera

Beasley Media Group

Monroe Liquor and Bar

Hiam Boraie

Movado

Sam and Susan Boraie

James L. Nederlander, Nederlander

Clydz

Producing Company of America

Cobblestone Creek Country Club

Prudential

Confectionately Yours

Pure Barre

David DeFrange

QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning

Derby Appliance Alice A. DeVoe and John Szabo on behalf of Yellow Daffodil

Raspa Jewelers Red Bulls RPM Raceway

Eileen Harkins

Rutgers Athletics

Ferrero USA, Inc.

Sagamore Spirits

Fiddleheads Restaurant

Sahara

Forsgate Country Club

Somerset Patriots

The Frog and The Peach

Sophie’s Bistro

The Great Swamp Watershed Association

Stage Left Steak / Stage Left Wine Shop

Hamilton Jewelers The Heldrich Hotel Bill Herman Hodulik & Morrison, P.C., a division of PKF O’Connor Davies, LLP Jasna Polana Jujamcyn Theaters Jumping Brook Country Club Sharon Karmazin Bradley and Rochelle King Richard Leist

Steakhouse 85 Stephen Taylor, Portrait Artist Stress Factory Teaberry’s Top Golf United Airlines Linda Van Derveer Linda and Clarendon Van Norman Venus Jewelers Wendy Wiebalk Zimmerli Museum

Simma Levine

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

Due Mari – Altamarea Group

At Time of Printing 25

We are proud to support the State Theatre New Jersey Benefit Gala Congratulations to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Honorees Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. MetLife

presents

dee dee bridgewater

Made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

The Benefit Gala underwrites State Theatre New Jerseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistically-acclaimed programming and nationally-recognized arts education programs.

about the artist

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

DEE DEE BRIDGEWATER

Over the course of a multifaceted career spanning four decades, Grammy® and Tony® Awardwinning jazz giant Dee Dee Bridgewater has ascended to the upper echelon of vocalists, putting her unique spin on standards, as well as taking intrepid leaps of faith in re-envisioning jazz classics. Ever the fearless voyager, explorer, pioneer, and keeper of tradition, the three-time Grammy®winner recently won the Grammy® for Best Jazz Vocal Album for Eleanora Fagan (1915-1959): To Billie With Love From Dee Dee. Bridgewater’s career has always bridged musical genres. She earned her first professional experience as a member of the legendary Thad Jones/ Mel Louis Big Band, and throughout the ‘70s she performed with such jazz notables as Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, and Dizzy Gillespie. After a foray into the pop world during the 1980s, she relocated to Paris and began to turn her attention back to jazz. Signing with Universal Music Group as a producer (Bridgewater produces all of her CDs), Bridgewater released a series of critically-acclaimed titles beginning

with Keeping Tradition in 1993. All but one, including her wildly successful double Grammy® Award-winning tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Dear Ella, have received Grammy® nominations. Bridgewater also pursued a parallel career in musical theater, winning a Tony® Award for her role as “Glinda” in The Wiz in 1975. Having recently completed a run as the lead role of Billie Holiday in the off-Broadway production of Lady Day, her other theatrical credits include Sophisticated Ladies, Black Ballad, Carmen, Cabaret, and the OffBroadway and West End Productions of Lady Day, for which Bridgewater received the British Laurence Olivier nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. As a Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Bridgewater continues to appeal for international solidarity to finance global grassroots projects in the fight against world hunger. She spent the last year on an extensive global tour in support of “Dee Dee’s Feathers” and was recently honored with a stage dedication in her name at the new People’s Health New Orleans Jazz Market. In June of 2016, it was announced that Bridgewater would be the recipient of an NEA Jazz Masters Fellows Award with honors to be bestowed at the Kennedy Center in April 2017.

about the artist BILL CHARLAP “Charlap approaches a song the way a lover approaches his beloved… when he sits down to play, the result is an embrace, an act of possession. The tune rises, falls, disappears and resurfaces in new forms as Charlap ranges over the keyboard with nimble, crisply swinging lines, subtly layered textures, dense chords and spiky interjections.” TIME Magazine.

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

One of the world’s premier jazz pianists, Bill Charlap has performed and recorded with many leading artists of our time, ranging from jazz masters Phil Woods and Wynton Marsalis to singers Tony Bennett and Barbra Streisand. Since 1997, he has led the Bill Charlap Trio with bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington, now recognized as one of the leading groups in jazz. Charlap is the artistic director of New York City’s Jazz in July Festival at the 92nd Street Y, and he has produced concerts for Jazz at Lincoln Center, the JVC Jazz Festival, and the Hollywood Bowl. A two-time Grammy® nominee, Charlap is married to renowned jazz pianist Renee Rosnes, and the two often collaborate in a duo piano setting. In the spring of 2010, Charlap and Rosnes released “Double Portrait,” their acclaimed duo piano recording on the Blue Note label.

is proud to support the

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY

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EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT State Theatre New Jersey’s nationally-recognized education and community engagement programs touch the lives of more than 35,000 students, teachers, and families each year, with performances, workshops, artist residencies, and other activities that make the performing arts meaningful, accessible, and affordable to the people in our community. ● Each year, PERFORMANCES FOR SCHOOLS introduce nearly 20,000 students from 200+ schools across New Jersey to the thrill of live theatre. Tickets to these shows are subsidized by as much as 90% to keep them affordable for students. ● SYMPHONY SCHOLARS, a free program for New Brunswick middle school music students, provides an in-depth introduction to classical music, including attending a symphony concert at State Theatre New Jersey. ● SENSORY FRIENDLY RELAXED PERFORMANCES enable children who are on the autism spectrum and others with sensory sensitivities to experience the joy of live theater. Modulated lighting and sound levels, a designated quiet area, and a relaxed attitude toward theater etiquette create a safe, comfortable, judgment-free environment for this special audience. ● Over 7,000 people flock to our FREE SUMMER MOVIES, featuring morning and evening screenings of six family-friendly favorites. ● State Theatre New Jersey’s beloved MILK & COOKIES series features music and storytelling programs designed to introduce young children ages 3-8 to live performance.

● FAMILY DAY is a day-long festival featuring performances, workshops, crafts, games, face painting, balloon animals, and more – most of it free of charge. Encompassing State Theatre New Jersey as well as adjacent venues, the celebration attracts between 4,000-5,000 people each year. ● State Theatre’s annual six-week ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE program, featuring poet Glenis Redmond, brings poetry performances and writing workshops to schools, senior centers, youth shelters, residential treatment facilities, prisons, libraries, and other locations throughout central New Jersey. ● State Theatre New Jersey’s COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEES (AFRICAN AMERICAN, LATINO, AND LGBTQ) connect us with our richly diverse community, bringing new audiences to our celebrated venue.

Contact Marisa Wanzie in Development to learn more about how you or your company can be involved in supporting these important programs, at any level. 732-247-7200, ext. 543 or mwanzie@stnj.org

EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

● COMMUNITY GIVING helps State Theatre New Jersey in its mission to ensure that every person has access to high-quality arts experiences. Each season, we provide more than $650,000 in free and subsidized tickets, programs, and services for underserved, disadvantaged, and special-needs members of our community – among them children, seniors, veterans, and the disabled. Local partnerships with schools, social service organizations, faith-based groups, and other arts groups help connect us to our community at a grassroots level.

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Prudential is proud to sponsor the

2019 STATE THEATRE BENEFIT GALA

ÂŠ2019 Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol, and Bring Your Challenges are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. JOH8_AD_GI1_01 The Prudential Insurance Company of America 1021428-00001-00 36

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BRAVO, BRAVO! Mercer and Trion are proud sponsors of the State Theatre’s 30th Anniversary Benefit Gala. We applaud the State Theatre’s dedication to enriching people’s lives and making a difference in a vital urban community.

ABOUT MERCER At Mercer, we make a difference in the lives of more than 115 million people every day by advancing their health, wealth and careers. Mercer LLC and its separately incorporated operating entities around the world are part of Marsh & McLennan Companies, a publicly held company (ticker symbol: MMC) listed on the New York, Chicago and London stock exchanges. ABOUT TRION GROUP Trion, a Marsh & McLennan agency LLC company, is a leading insurance, employee benefits brokerage, consulting and benefits administration provider that helps companies reduce costs and maximize the value of their health, life, disability and voluntary programs.

Engage. Educate. Entertain. Three words that capture what State Theatre New Jersey brings to those who experience the performances it presents and the educational programs it offers. We are pleased to participate in the 2019 Benefit Gala in support of State Theatre New Jersey. www.pwc.com

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Congratulates Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Leadership in the Arts Honoree

MetLife

Corporate Honoree

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Improving the quality of life in our communities takes inspiration, perspiration and dedication. We’re proud to support Johnson & Johnson and we share their determination to make a difference.

Raising a Glass to Honoree Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr.

Your friends in the Raritan CenterÂŽ Business Community

State Theatre 2019 Gala honoring

Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Thank you for all of your hard work, leadership and commitment from the

CHAIRMAN Kevin McTernan VICE CHAIRMAN Anthony Caputo

SECRETARY Edwin Keefe

TREASURER Louis Garlatti, Jr.

COMMISSIONER Andrea Eato-White

LEGAL COUNSEL David L. Minchello, Esq.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mitchell Karon

Visit us at www.njnbpa.org

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Congratulations We wish to thank State Theatre New Jersey for recognizing Bank of America’s contributions to the arts in New Jersey. When members of the community support the arts, they help inspire and enrich everyone. Artistic diversity can be a powerful force for unity, creating shared experiences and a desire for excellence. Visit us at bankofamerica.com/newjersey Life’s better when we’re connected® ©2018 Bank of America Corporation | SPN-129-AD | ARSB9SWX

Congratulations and Continued Success to the

State Theatre New Jersey

732.745.8600

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Saint Peter’s University Hospital n Saint Peter’s Physician Associates Saint Peter’s Health and Management Services Corporation n Saint Peter’s Foundation Sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen

We would like to extend a special thanks to our 2019 Gala Committee, President & CEO Sarah K. Chaplin, and the State Theatre New Jersey Operations team. Thank you for your immense support and dedication to this year’s event!

photo by Jason Paddock

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State Theatre New Jersey’s 2019 Benefit Gala and congratulates this year’s honorees

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We proudly support State Theatre New Jersey E S T. 1 9 1 3

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES

STAFF ADMINISTRATION

DEVELOPMENT

Sarah K. Chaplin President & CEO

May R. Van Norman u Vice President of Development

John S. Fitzgerald VICE CHAIR

Marlene Canavera u Executive Assistant to the President & CEO

Linsey Short Deputy Director of Development

Richard J. Leist TREASURER

EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Peter Stavrianidis SECRETARY

Lian Farrer 9 Vice President of Education & Community Engagement

Brian D. Agnew Hiam Boraie Luis De La Hoz Stephan DeMicco Etta Rudolf 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

Erik Stratton Education & Community Engagement Manager

Scott Fergang CHAIR

EX OFFICIO MEMBERS The Honorable James M. Cahill, Mayor, City of New Brunswick Ronald G. Rios, Freeholder Director, County of Middlesex

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

Susan Levine Chief Financial Officer Ann C. Zawartkay, CPA, CGMA Finance Consultant Patricia Lanza l Accounting Clerk & Volunteer Coordinator Joseph Rodriguez l General Ledger Accountant OPERATIONS Joe Stoltman Vice President of Theater Operations Bill Riker Project Manager Tim Bailey C Facility Manager Production Marian Zennie Production Manager Craig Werner 9 Master Electrician, Lighting Designer Willie Weist C Chief Audio Engineer Michael G. Sivetz 9 Master Carpenter Richard Stanek 9 Head Technician Roman Klima C Head Video Technician William K. Pocsik 9 Head Flyman Front of House Jessica Trechak C Director of Event Services Dan Lyons u Concessions Manager

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 l Director of Communications Tracy Furr C Creative Director Jason Paddock u Director of Event Marketing Hanna Wasserman Marketing Coordinator Garry Owen u 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 Deb Lemeshow Guest Services Supervisor & Season Ticket Concierge Susan Blumert Z Guest Services Sales Associate PROGRAMMING Simma Levine Programming Consultant Marisa Wanzie Programming & Development Assistant State Theatre New Jersey is proud to be associated with the professional technicians of IATSE Local #21

GENERAL INFORMATION

ADVISORY COUNCIL Lauren D. Bercik Saul Curtis Sharon Cyktor John Gantner Timothy W. Harbison Gabriel Lavigne Andrew J. Markey Richard McDonald Vincent Pungello Ernesto Quinteros Dave Retcher James Tignanelli Jill Vitiello Jennifer Zimmer

FINANCE

Lisa L. Patterson Capital Campaign Director

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ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES

Only the orchestra level is wheelchair accessible. Patrons can make arrangements for accessible seating through Guest Services when purchasing tickets.

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 that 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 732-247-7200, ext. 521.

The theater is equipped with an assistive listening system that improves sound clarity and amplification. The lightweight, wireless headsets may be borrowed free of charge at either coat check or the gift shop.

CELL PHONES/CAMERAS: Please note that iPads, GoPros, selfie sticks, tripods, monopods, cameras with detachable lenses 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.

Large-print programs are available free of charge for most performances. Ask for your copy at the lowerlobby bar.

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

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.

SEASON SPONSORS If you know someone who loves the arts and would benefit from these services, please share this information.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Deaf and hearingimpaired patrons may contact the State Theatre through the NJ Relay Service at (TTY) 800-852-7899.

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all areas of the theater.

OFFICIAL AIRLINE OF THE STATE THEATRE

Hamilton Jewelers is proud to support State Theatre New Jersey.

Hamilton Business Gifts Division - CLIENT PRESENTATION GIFTS - TOURNAMENT AND GOLF TROPHIES - MILESTONE AND RETIREMENT GIFTS - SALES RECOGNITION AWARDS - EMPLOYEE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS - SERVICE AWARD PROGRAMS -

For assistance or more information, please contact Diana Wilf at 609.524.6497, or email dwilf@hamiltonjewelers.com

credits We offer sincere appreciation to the following individuals and businesses for their generous support of the 2019 Benefit Gala, through their exemplary services provided and in-kind donations. State Theatre Staff and Benefit Gala Committee for their dedication and commitment to making this event a success— including the Operations and Production teams. A special thank you to all the volunteers who helped at tonight’s event. Clydz Due Mari Meg Fry Gatsby Now GiveSmart Hamilton Jewelers The Heldrich Hotel IATSE Local #21 Jeffrey Auger Photography Lina Llona Mason Gross Jazz Ensemble MasterGraphx Miller’s Rentals New Brunswick Police Department Shore Point Distributing Company Socialfix Stage Left / Catherine Lombardi Strikeforce Vintage Print Photo Booth

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY 2019 BENEFIT GALA

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LE T ’S CELEBR ATE Borden Perlman is proud to support State Theatre New Jersey and to celebrate its longstanding commitment to the performing arts. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!

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• PERSONALIZED PHARMACY SERVICES • SURGICAL SUPPLIES Best wishes to Dee Abedraboh and State Theatre • FLU SHOTS & VACCINATIONS New Jersey for a successful Gala fundraiser! • MEDICATION COUNSELING • FULL LINE OF VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS • FREE SHIPPING WITHIN NJ MD Dharam Mann, Interventional Pain Management, Anesthesiology Barnegat, Brick, Toms River, Manahawkin, West Long Branch, and Whiting 732.202.3000

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STNJ.ORG 732-246-SHOW (7469) 68

THE BEST PLACE IN NJ

TO SEE A BROADWAY SHOW!

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