Audra McDonald, AIN'T MISBEHAVIN', Jazz, Dance and More Set for NJPAC's 2017-18 Season
By: BWW News Desk May. 15, 2017
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center announces its 20th anniversary 2017-18 season with the initial launch of more than 150 performances and special events, all wrapped into a festive new reimagining of the NJPAC brand identity.
The refreshed brand lends a festival-like ambiance to an ambitious season announced today, highlighted by the sixth annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival; an appearance by cellist Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble; a four-day engagement of the hit Broadway musical "Ain't Misbehavin'"; spark-igniting duets from classical violinists Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman, sharing the Prudential Hall stage; and a conversation with former President Bill Clinton.
The Arts Center's launch of a dramatic and celebratory visual identity commemorates two decades of live performance and heralds an exciting anniversary season of internationally renowned artists. Through bold design reflected in every aspect of the Arts Center's communications, led by a distinctive new logo, NJPAC's rebranding is emblematic of artistic excellence, authentic community engagement, best-in-class arts education, and just plain fun.
"The country's most vibrant urban performing arts center now has a custom-designed, institutional identity, unveiled as part of the 20th anniversary season," says NJPAC President and CEO John Schreiber. "The new brand will seamlessly unite all of NJPAC's performances and activities, whether they occur in our theaters or off-campus. Audiences will instantly recognize NJPAC as a place of celebration, where everyone goes home feeling enriched, energetic and ready for more."
Paula Scher, partner at Pentagram, the international design consultancy that directed NJPAC's rebranding, believes the Arts Center "deserves to be seen and recognized" for the scope of its programming.
"I was impressed that such a powerhouse of programming came from just one institution," she says. "This new identity will remind everyone where they saw that performer they loved, and they will begin to recognize that NJPAC offers a multitude of Great Performances in many genres, in addition to the headliners. The identity makes it easier for everyone to find what they like and be inspired to come see it all."
20 Years of Programming Excellence
On Oct. 18, 1997, the attention of arts world was drawn to downtown Newark, where a rare occurrence - the opening of a major performing arts center - was heralded with riverside fireworks and a black-tie gala held under an enormous tent. Among the performers in Prudential Hall that night were tap virtuoso Savion Glover, who returns this season to stage a new production, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, NJPAC's principal resident Dance Company, whose annual Mother's Day weekend engagement continues to be welcomed enthusiastically by audiences.
"We're honoring the founding of NJPAC and its continuing trendline of excellence as the Arts Center grows consistently in diversity, audience size and activity," says David Rodriguez, Executive Vice President and Executive Producer. "Yo-Yo Ma performed in our inaugural season and we're celebrating his return, this time with the Silk Road Ensemble. Since the beginning, Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman have individually been favorites here, but now their fans can see them together in one unbelievable concert."
Family audiences will discover modern twists and old favorites, Rodriguez adds. As an example, "The Hip Hop Nutcracker" (Dec. 15), commissioned by NJPAC and featuring special guest MC Kurtis Blow, is back at its original NJPAC home this winter, following a second successful nationwide tour. For those who prefer pointe shoes and the stylized elegance of classical Russian ballet, "The Nutcracker" presented by the State Ballet Theatre of Russia (Dec. 16) shimmers with snowflakes and sugarplums, as it was originally produced at Moscow's Mariinsky Theatre. Tchaikovsky's beloved score serves these works in very diverse and entertaining ways - and both presentations take place on the same weekend.
NJPAC's mission to serve the community as a forum for open discourse will generate events announced throughout the season, most offered at no cost to the public. Meaningful partnerships will continue with organizations and institutions throughout Greater Newark, such as the Newark History Society, which returns with a free, three-part lecture series on Monday evenings (Sept. 25; March 5 and April 16, 2018) in the Chase Room.
Additional 2017-18 Season Highlights
- The Bank of America Classical Series encompasses eight concerts beginning this October to May 2018. A longtime favorite with NJPAC audiences, violinist Joshua Bell performs and conducts the Academy of St Martin in the Fields (March 18, 2018). A highly anticipated appearance by the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba (March 23, 2018) features Enrique Pérez-Mesa on the podium. Sir Simon Rattle, on his inaugural tour with the London Symphony Orchestra, leads his players in Mahler's sweeping Symphony No. 9 (May 5, 2018).
- Among the many concerts of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival (Nov. 4-12) are a pair of intriguing double-bills that challenge the perceptions of jazz. "Crosscurrents": Zakir Hussain & Dave Holland (Nov. 5) melds the music of India with the energy of jazz. The farewell tour of guitar virtuosos John McLaughlin and Widespread Panic's Jimmy Herring promises selections from McLaughlin's 1970s electric band, the Mahavishnu Orchestra (Nov. 10).
- The best of the Great American Songbook, sung by Broadway's brightest contemporary stars, is a key element of NJPAC's lineup. One-of-a-kind evenings in the intimate setting of the Chase Room include "The Wizard and I: The Stephen Schwartz Songbook" (Oct. 28), a stellar salute to the famed composer of "Wicked," "Pippin" and "Children of Eden." "Ella and Dizzy: The Centennial Celebration" (Nov. 12), part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival, commemorates the 100th birthdays of Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie with an exclusive concert by such artists as Gregory Porter, Regina Carter and Valerie Simpson, backed by bassist and NJPAC Jazz Advisor Christian McBride and his big band in Prudential Hall. Six-time Tony winner Audra McDonald returns to the Arts Center (June 3, 2018) with an eclectic repertoire that spans musical theater, opera, pop and standards.
- Some of the most in-demand artists are lending their voices to the season, and here are just a few: Three-time Grammy Award recipient and R&B superstar Jill Scott (July 15); Rock and Roll Hall of Famers YES, with Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman (Sept. 27); and Fab Four member and classic rocker Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band (Nov. 16).
- The New Jersey Speakers Series, presented by Fairleigh Dickinson University, brings an all-new, seven-lecture series to NJPAC from October to April. Among the distinguished thought-leaders on the schedule are former U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron (Oct. 12), journalist and author Cokie Roberts (Nov. 2) and Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the U.S. (April 12, 2018).
- "Ain't Misbehavin'," a co-production of NJPAC and Crossroads Theatre Company of New Brunswick, turns the Victoria Theater into a rollicking nightclub of the 1920s Harlem Renaissance. The six-performance engagement (Feb. 1-4, 2018) of this Broadway hit is directed and choreographed by Tony nominee André De Shields.
- Two popular children's TV shows cartwheel onto the mainstage, beginning on Oct. 14 with two performances of PBS KIDS' "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood LIVE!," a live-action adventure starring the "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" character Daniel Tiger. Nickelodeon's "PAW Patrol Live!" follows on Dec. 9 and 10, with five performances of this first-ever live tour about a pack of heroic canines on a rescue mission.
Tickets for NJPAC's 2017-18 season go on sale FRIDAY, MAY 19.
NJPAC.ORG is the only official ticket source for performances. The box office is at One Center St., Newark, N.J. Visit njpac.org for hours of operation. To order single tickets, click to njpac.org or call 1.888.GO.NJPAC (466-5722). For groups of nine or more, call (973) 297-5804.
Celebrate NJPAC's 20th Anniversary Season with $20 Tickets to 20 Events!
A "20 for 20" box office promotion allows customers to purchase $20 tickets in specified seating areas from among 20 pre-selected shows. Performances include The Temptations and The Four Tops, Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman, "The Hip Hop Nutcracker," Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, and many more! This offer is only available at the NJPAC box office. Restrictions apply. Limit two performances per customer and two tickets per performance. Click to njpac.org/20for20 for details and a list of eligible shows.
NJPAC 2017-18 20TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON CALENDAR:
SUMMER 2017
Felix Hernandez's Rhythm Revue Dance Party
Thursday, July 6 / 5 p.m.
Felix Hernandez is the popular host of "Rhythm Revue," now in its 31st year on the New York area airwaves. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Jon B.
Thursday, July 13 / 5 p.m.
This Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter ("Someone to Love") specializes in a distinctive brand of soul and R&B. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
"Bring It LIVE!"
Thursday, July 13 / 8 p.m.
Fans of the Lifetime series get a chance to be part of the action when Miss D and her Dancing Dolls perform new routines!
Prudential Hall / $29.75 - $49.75
Jill Scott
Saturday, July 15 / 8 p.m.
This R&B singer-songwriter, a three-time Grammy winner, performs "He Loves Me (Lyzel in E Flat)," "Fool's Gold" and other hits.
Prudential Hall / $50 -$125
Kurtis Blow / Universal Hip Hop Museum
Thursday, July 20 / 5 p.m.
Hip-hop pioneer Kurtis Blow arrives with his group, dedicated to inspiring audiences through the power of hip-hop. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Beres Hammond / Marcia Griffiths / Third World
Saturday, July 22 / 8 p.m.
The reggae sensation, known for his romantic "lovers rock," appears with the phenomenal Marcia Griffiths and Third World. Part of the World Music Series sponsored by American Express.
Prudential Hall / $59 - $119
Septeto Santiaguero
Thursday, July 27 / 5 p.m.
The dance floor is sure to heat up with the arrival of one of Cuba's most essential bands. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Tower of Power with special guest Michael Colton
Thursday, Aug. 3 / 5 p.m.
This R&B-based band is known for a groove-based brand of urban soul music that borrows from jazz and funk. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Louis Prima, Jr. & The Witnesses
Thursday, Aug. 10 / 5 p.m.
Backed by a swinging eight-piece band, singer Louis Prima, Jr. continues the boisterous jazz tradition of his famous father. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Black Sheep / Das EFX
Thursday, Aug. 17 / 5 p.m.
One night with two of the hottest duos in hip-hop. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Talib Kweli
Thursday, Aug. 24 / 5 p.m.
This acclaimed rapper's outings as a solo artist include collaborations with Kanye West, Just Blaze and Pharrell Williams. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
SEPTEMBER 2017
Erykah Badu
Friday, Sept. 15 / 8 p.m.
For two decades, this Grammy-winning singer and songwriter has been one of the most distinctive artists in R&B and neo-soul. Part of the Horizon Foundation Concert Series
Prudential Hall / $55-$125
John Cleese: "Monty Python and the Holy Grail"
Sunday, Sept. 24 / 3 p.m.
A screening of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," followed by unbridled fun with comic mastermind John Cleese.
Prudential Hall / $49 -$99
Newark History Society: "Over There: Newarkers in the Great War"
Monday, Sept. 25 / 6 p.m.
Discussion with John Zinn, president of the New Jersey Historical Society
The Chase Room / FREE
YES: John Anderson, Trevor Rabin, Rick Wakeman
Wednesday, Sept. 27 / 7:30 p.m.
A night of YES hits with 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman.
Prudential Hall / $49-$129 OCTOBER 2017 The Temptations / The Four Tops
Friday, Oct. 6 / 8 p.m.
"My Girl," "Baby, I Need Your Loving" and more classic soul hits with two Grammy-winning legends.
Prudential Hall / $39-$79
An Evening with Patrizio Buanne
Saturday, Oct. 7 / 8 p.m.
Due to huge popular demand, straight from Europe: Patrizio Buanne.
Victoria Theater / $49.50
David Cameron
Thursday, Oct. 12
Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (2010-2016). Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475
"The Price is Right LIVE!"
Friday, Oct. 13 / 8 p.m.
An interactive stage show that captures the frenzied fun of the hit game show with a chance to win big-ticket prizes.
Prudential Hall / $39 -$59
"Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood LIVE!"
Saturday, Oct. 14 / 2 and 5:30 p.m.
The award-winning, animated PBS KIDS series springs to life in this interactive, musical adventure for young audiences.
Prudential Hall / $29-$49
"The Ultimate Queen Celebration" starring Marc Martel
Friday, Oct. 20 / 8 p.m.
Get ready to rock with the greatest Freddie Mercury voice on the planet when "The Ultimate Queen Celebration" incorporates nearly two dozen of the band's hits: "Fat Bottomed Girls," "Somebody to Love," "Bohemian Rhapsody," and more.
Prudential Hall / $39-$59
Orpheus Chamber Orchestra / André Watts, piano
Sunday, Oct. 22 / 3 p.m.
Cherubini: Overture
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 9, K.271 ("Jeunehomme")
Beethoven: Symphony No. 1
Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$89
Jazz House Kids Turns 15! Star-Studded Concert and Dinner
Tuesday, Oct. 24 / 7 p.m.
Christian McBride leads an all-star lineup to celebrate 15 years of music education. Part of the TD Bank Jazz Series
Prudential Hall / On sale June 10
Thursday, Oct. 26 / 7:30 p.m.
>From the producers of Broadway's "Tango Argentino," a soulful and passionate celebration of the Argentinian tango.
Prudential Hall / $29-$69"Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets In Concert"
Saturday, Oct. 28 / 2 p.m.
This unforgettable concert will feature the full-length film, with composer John Williams' thrilling score performed live by the NJSO. Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $35-$89"The Wizard and I: The Stephen Schwartz Songbook"
Saturday, Oct. 28 / 6 and 8:30 p.m.
Some of Broadway's brightest stars - Darius DeHaas, Jessica Hendy and Kelli Rabke - perform Stephen Schwartz's biggest hits. ("Godspell," "Pippin," "Wicked").
The Chase Room / $50-$70 NOVEMBER 2017
Jeffrey Toobin
Thursday, Nov. 2 / 8 p.m.
Supreme Court expert and esteemed legal analyst. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475
Friday, Nov. 3 / 7 p.m.
The host of Food Network's "Cutthroat Kitchen" blends science, music and food into delicious entertainment.
Prudential Hall / $39.50-$79.50Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Band featuring Terrell Stafford
Saturday, Nov. 4 / 6 p.m.
Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Bethany Baptist Church, 275 W. Market St. / FREEManhattan Transfer
Saturday, Nov. 4 / 7:30 p.m.
Famed Grammy-winning vocal quartet performs swing, standards and pop. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $69-$89Hiromi / Edmar Castañeda
Sunday, Nov. 5 / 3 p.m.
Keyboardist Hiromi creates spellbinding music with virtuoso Colombian harpist Edmar Casteñeda. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $49-$59Crosscurrents: Zakir Hussain / Dave Holland / Shankar Mahadevan and others
Sunday, Nov. 5 / 7 p.m.
The music of India melds with the energy of jazz. Also featuring Chris Potter, Sanjay Divecha, Louiz Banks and Gino Banks. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $29-$79WBGO-Jazz 88.3FM Presents Carrie Jackson
Wednesday, Nov. 8 / Noon
Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Gateway Center II / FREEAn Evening with Chris Botti
Wednesday, Nov. 8 / 7:30 p.m.
One of the leading innovators of jazz and contemporary music returns to NJPAC. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $29-$79Christian Mc Bride & Dianne Reeves: "One on One"
Friday, Nov. 10 / 7:30 p.m.
Don't miss this meeting of two superstars of contemporary jazz. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $59John McLaughlin & Jimmy Herring: "Meeting of the Spirits Farewell Tour"
Friday, Nov. 10 / 8 p.m.
Guitar legends John McLaughlin and Widespread Panic's Jimmy Herring join forces - each artist in separate sets followed by a performance of music of the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $25-$79Camille Thurman & The Darrell Green Trio
Saturday, Nov. 11 / 1:30 p.m.
NJPAC and WBGO Jazz 88.3FM host this jazz performance featuring rising saxophonist-vocalist Camille Thurman and The Darrell Green Trio, a unit led by the acclaimed drummer. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / FREEGrupo Niche
Saturday, Nov. 11 / 8 p.m.
Latin jazz with the world-famous salsa masters of Grupo Niche and special guests. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $49-$99
Dorthaan's Place Jazz Brunch: Kevin Mahogany
Sunday, Nov. 12 / 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
The standard-setter for jazz vocalists performs gutbucket to gospel, Mingus to Motown. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
NICO Kitchen + Bar at NJPAC / Adult $45, child $15
Sunday, Nov. 12 / 3 p.m.
Five finalists in performance at the sixth annual "SASSY Awards," with guest judges including TS Monk, Ann Hampton Callaway, Will Downing, Vanessa Rubin and WBGO's Gary Walker. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $29-$39"Ella & Dizzy: The Centennial Celebration"
Sunday, Nov. 12 / 7 p.m.
Gregory Porter, Lizz Wright, Regina Carter, Valerie Simpson, Randy Brecker, Sean Jones and the Christian McBride Big Band salute Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie and celebrate the Ella songbook on her centennial. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $25-$79Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band
Thursday, Nov. 16 / 7:30 p.m.
A rollicking concert of classic rock'n'roll with Todd Rundgren (Utopia), Gregg Rolie (Journey), Steve Lukather (Toto), Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Warren Ham (Bloodrock) and Gregg Bissonette. Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $49-$179NJMEA All-State Jazz Band and Honors Choir Concert
Friday, Nov. 17 / 7 p.m.
The best young jazz musicians in N.J. gather for a dynamic group performance with special guest Wallace Roney. Part of the TD Bank Jazz Series
The Chase Room / Adult $30, child $13"Scarf Diaries"
Saturday, Nov. 18 / 3 and 7 p.m.
This one-woman play, written and directed by Antoinette Ellis-Williams, uses scarves as conduits for complex narratives about religion, culture, sexuality and more.
The Chase Room / $49Itzhak Perlman / Pinchas Zukerman
Saturday, Nov. 18 / 7:30 p.m.
A rare joint recital - two of the greatest violinists of our time, perhaps of all time - in one of the classical season's hottest tickets! Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$109"Kenyatta" / Trilogy - An Opera Company
Sunday, Nov. 19 / 7 p.m.
Kevin Maynor sings the title role in this new opera by New Jersey composer Trent Johnson, based on the life of Jomo Kenyatta, the inspirational first president of the Republic of Kenya. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Victoria Theater / $44-$54Cokie Roberts
Thursday, Nov. 30 / 8 p.m.
Journalist and author. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 †
DECEMBER 2017
"Irving Berlin Songbook": Robert Kimball, Marlene VerPlanck
Sunday, Dec. 3 / 3 p.m.
One of the greatest songwriters is celebrated by musical theater historian Robert Kimball and vocalist Marlene VerPlanck.
The Chase Room / $50-$70
Thursday, Dec. 7 / 7 p.m.
A premier event from the Tony-winning tap master behind "Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk" and "Shuffle Along."
Prudential Hall / $69-$89"PAW Patrol Live!"
Saturday, Dec. 9 / 10 a.m. and 2 and 6 p.m.
Ryder and the rescue dogs of Nick Jr.'s hit animated series "PAW Patrol" are on a roll with their action-packed, first-ever live tour!
Prudential Hall / $23-$74"PAW Patrol Live!"
Sunday, Dec. 10 / 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $23-$74"The Hip Hop Nutcracker" with special guest MC Kurtis Blow
Friday, Dec. 15 / 7 p.m.
NJPAC's original holiday mash-up for the family sets Tchaikovsky's timeless score to explosive hip-hop choreography. Directed and choreographed by Jennifer Weber.
Prudential Hall / $29-$79NJPAC Kwanzaa Children's Festival
Saturday, Dec. 16 / 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Celebrate the Nguzo Saba at NJPAC's 19th annual Kwanzaa Children's Festival and marketplace, featuring an Arts and Crafts Village and music and dance activities.
Various NJPAC locations / FREEForces of Nature Dance Theatre: "A Kwanzaa Celebration"
Saturday, Dec. 16 / 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Celebrate Kwanzaa festivities with this daring Dance Company and poets Ntozake Shange and Sonia Sanchez.
Victoria Theater / $29-$45"The Nutcracker" / State Ballet Theatre of Russia
Saturday, Dec. 16 / 3 p.m.
This incomparable company of over 65 dancers arrives with a sumptuous staging of Tchaikovsky's beloved holiday classic as originally staged at Moscow's Mariinsky Theater.
Prudential Hall / $29-$79Handel's "Messiah" / New Jersey Symphony Orchestra
Sunday, Dec. 17 / 3 p.m.
Xian Zhang conducts her first NJSO "Messiah," with a marvelous quartet of soloists and the superb Montclair State University Singers, adding her remarkable sensibility and style to this adored treasure. Presented in collaboration with the NJSO. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$89Michael Carbonaro
Saturday, Dec. 30 / 7 p.m.
Back by popular demand: mind-blowing magic and outrageous comedy with the star of truTV's "The Carbonaro Effect"
Prudential Hall / $39-$79
JANUARY 2018
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Friday, Jan. 12 / 8 p.m.
Celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at NJPAC's annual musical tribute. Sponsored by PSEG Foundation.
Prudential Hall / Prices to come
Saturday, Jan. 13 / 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
NJPAC's annual free celebration of the life and message of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for children and their families will convey the essence of Dr. King's dream through performing arts workshops and activities.
Various NJPAC locations / FREERoyal Philharmonic Orchestra / Pinchas Zukerman, conductor and violin
Saturday, Jan. 20 / 8 p.m.
Weber: Overture to Der Freischütz
Beethoven: Violin Concerto
Dvo?ák: Symphony No. 7
Both sides of Zukerman's talent will be on full display in a program that includes Dvo?ák's spirited Seventh Symphony and Beethoven's brilliant Violin Concerto. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$99Vic DiBitetto
Friday, Jan. 26 / 8 p.m.
The frenetic, fantastic comedian, a grand prize winner on "America's Funniest People," offers his funny takes on daily life.
Victoria Theater / $39.50Vic DiBitetto
Saturday, Jan. 27 / 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $39.50Travis Wall's Shaping Sound
Sunday, Jan. 28 / 6 p.m.
"After the Curtain," an all-new production, led by Emmy-winning choreographer Travis Wall of "So You Think You Can Dance."
Prudential Hall / $39-$89
FEBRUARY 2018
Robin Wright
Thursday, Feb. 1 / 8 p.m.
Middle East expert, award-winning journalist and author. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475
Thursday, Feb. 1 / 8 p.m.
Experience the glory of the Harlem Renaissance in the Broadway hit that brims with "contagious energy" (The New York Times). Directed by André DeShields.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Friday, Feb. 2 / 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Saturday, Feb. 3 / 3 and 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Sunday, Feb. 4 / 3 and 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: "Year of the Dog"
Saturday, Feb. 10 / 2 p.m.
Nai-Ni Chen and her amazing dancers, musicians and acrobats present a fantastic celebration of the lunar Year of the Dog.
Victoria Theater / Adult $27-$35, child $17"My Funny Valentine" with Marin Mazzie & Jason Danieley
Saturday, Feb. 10 / 6 and 8:30 p.m.
The duo present songs from their most romantic roles, including "Ragtime," "Kiss Me, Kate" and "The Full Monty."
The Chase Room / $50-$70Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: "Year of the Dog"
Sunday, Feb. 11 / 2 p.m.
Victoria Theater / Adult $27-$35, child $17"Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus LIVE!"
Saturday, Feb. 17 / 3 and 8 p.m.
A hilarious, one-man fusion of theater and stand-up, based on John Gray's bestseller.
Victoria Theater / $59"Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus LIVE!"
Sunday, Feb. 18 / 2 and 6:30 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59Rick Steves
Thursday, Feb. 22 / 8 p.m.
Author, television host and European travel guide. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475
MARCH 2018
Lightwire Theater: "Moon Mouse, A Space Odyssey"
Saturday, March 3 / 2 p.m.
Join Marvin the mouse on the space adventure of a lifetime in Lightwire Theater's glow-in-the-dark experience!
Victoria Theater / Adult $25, child $13
Monday, March 5 / 6 p.m.
Discussion with Christa Clarke of the W.E.B. DuBois Institute at Harvard about path-breaking collector Lida Clanton Broner.
The Chase Room / FREEAn Evening with Donna McKechnie and Andrea McArdle
Saturday, March 10 / 6 and 8:30 p.m.
Tony winner McKechnie and McArdle come together to perform the inimitable songs of Marvin Hamlisch and Stephen Sondheim.
The Chase Room / $50-$70"Broadway's Best" with Seth Rudetsky
Friday, March 16 / 7:30 p.m.
SiriusXM Radio's "On Broadway" host, and star-creator of Broadway's "Disaster! The Musical," is back with Broadway's best!
Victoria Theater / $59-$69Popovich Comedy Pet Theater
Saturday, March 17 / 1 and 5 p.m.
Juggling, comedy and more with Moscow Circus veteran Gregory Popovich and his talented performing pets.
Victoria Theater / $39Academy of St Martin in the Fields / Joshua Bell, conductor and violin
Sunday, March 18 / 3 p.m.
Mendelssohn: Overture to "A Midsummer Night's Dream"
Wieniawski: Violin Concerto No. 2
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6 ("Pastoral")
Joshua Bell leads the Academy of St Martin in the Fields in Beethoven's poetic "Pastoral" Symphony-and performs one of the great Romantic showpieces for violin and orchestra, Wieniaswski's Second Violin Concerto. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$109
Paul Nicklen
Thursday, March 22 / 8 p.m.
Award-winning National Geographic photographer. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 †
Friday, March 23 / 8 p.m.
Ravel: Boléro
Da Falla: Suites 1 & 2 from "The Three-Cornered Hat"
Gramatges: Serenade for Strings
Roldán: La Rebambaramba
On its first U.S. tour in five years, the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba makes its NJPAC debut with a Latin-flavored and dance-inspired program that includes Ravel's Boléro. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$89Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company with the Ahn Trio
Saturday, March 24 / 7:30 p.m.
The exquisite dancers from New Jersey's own Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company join forces with the world-renowned Ahn Trio, three Korean-American sisters known for their unique spin on the piano trio.
Victoria Theater / $45-$55Celtic Woman
Saturday, March 24 / 8 p.m.
This inspirational, all-female, Irish musical ensemble has become a favorite on PBS as well as on music charts around the globe. Part of the Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $45-$125
APRIL 2018
Russian National Ballet: "Sleeping Beauty"
Saturday, April 7 / 8 p.m.
Direct from Moscow, a stunning traditional staging of Tchaikovsky's cherished fairy tale, sure to delight all ages.
Prudential Hall / $29-$69
Sunday, April 8 / 3 p.m.
Yo-Yo Ma returns with his one-of-a-kind world music collective that The Los Angeles Times describes as "uninhibitedly joyous!" Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$119President Bill Clinton
Thursday, April 12 / 8 p.m.
42nd President of the United States (1993-2001). Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 †Johnny Mathis: "The Voice of Romance Tour 2018"
Saturday, April 13 / 8 p.m.
ON SALE JUNE 9
An American music icon returns with a concert drawn from his long list of timeless hits: "Misty," "Chances Are," "Twelfth of Never," and so many more.
Prudential Hall / $38-$124Jersey Moves! Festival of Dance: Carolyn Dorfman Dance
Saturday, April 14 / 7 p.m.
Celebrate Carolyn Dorfman Dance and 35 years of bold, powerful and thrilling performance and dancemaking!
Victoria Theater / $30-$45"Let It Be: A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles"
Sunday, April 15 / 3 p.m.
Live Beatles tribute, as seen on Broadway, packed with over 40 Beatles' hits, classified as "outstanding ... by far the best Beatles show yet" by The New York Times. Part of the Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $39-$69Newark History Society: "The Rise (and Fall) of German Newark"
Monday, April 16 / 6 p.m.
A panel discussion with Natalie Borisovets (Rutgers-Newark), Dan O'Flaherty (Columbia University) and Petra Moser (NYU)
The Chase Room / FREEShen Yun Performing Arts
Friday, April 27 / 8 p.m.
Shen Yun brings a lost civilization to life through richly expressive classical Chinese dance, music and spectacle.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204"BRIGHT MOMENTS! Celebrating Dorthaan Kirk at 80"
Saturday, April 28 / 7:30 p.m.
A top-notch lineup of jazz artists, including Cassandra Wilson, Jimmy Heath, Geri Allen and others, under the musical direction of Don Braden, convenes to celebrate WBGO co-founder Dorthaan Kirk, "Newark's First Lady of Jazz." Part of the TD Bank Jazz Series
Victoria Theater / $69 - $79Shen Yun Performing Arts
Saturday, April 28 / 2 and 7 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204Shen Yun Performing Arts
Sunday, April 29 / 2 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
MAY 2018
Shen Yun Performing Arts
Wednesday, May 2 / 8 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
Thursday, May 3 / 2 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204London Symphony Orchestra / Sir Simon Rattle, conductor
Saturday, May 5 / 2 p.m.
Mahler: Symphony No. 9
The London Symphony Orchestra's first tour under its new leader, Sir Simon Rattle, brings a program devoted to Gustav Mahler's monumental Symphony No. 9: the composer's final symphony, and arguably his greatest achievement. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$109Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Friday, May 11 / 8 p.m.
Elegant, electrifying and marvelously athletic, this always dazzling company returns with new works and classics featuring "Revelations."
Prudential Hall / $25-$89Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Saturday, May 12 / 8 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $25-$89Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Sunday, May 13 / 3 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $25-$89
JUNE 2018
Audra McDonald
Sunday, June 3 / 3 p.m.
The six-time Tony Award winner, one of Broadway's brightest stars, returns with an evening of magical music. Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $25-$79
Friday, June 15 / 8 p.m.
The fourth annual edition of this Garden State showcase features five of New Jersey's best up-and-coming choreographers
Victoria Theater / $34 b the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation
† Subject to 7% sales tax and a $30 handling fee per order. Tickets must be purchased as a full series.
Bank of America Classical Overtures
Learn just what to listen for during the live performance at these enlightening pre-show events, held one hour prior to most classical performances in Prudential Hall. NJPAC's Bank of America Classical Overtures are hosted by George Marriner Maull, the star of the NJ-based Discovery Orchestra's educational Discovery Concerts, featured on PBS stations across the country.
For information about the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra's 2017-18 season, visit njsymphony.org or call 1.800.255.3476.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States and is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey - where Great Performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state's and the world's best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors (including over 1.5 million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC for more information.
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