Stages of Madness

Experience Unique Theater – “Stages of Madness” at CDC Theatre!

New Jersey’s arts scene is incredibly diverse, offering everything from classic productions to innovative and thought-provoking new works. At Explore New Jersey, we love to highlight the unique cultural experiences that make our state so vibrant. If you’re looking for a theatrical event that promises to challenge, entertain, and provoke thought, then you won’t want to miss “Stages of Madness” at the historic CDC Theatre in Cranford!

“Stages of Madness”: An Unforgettable Theatrical Journey

Prepare for an evening where the boundaries of genre are stretched and the unexpected is the norm. “Stages of Madness” is a special theatrical event running from June 12-14, 2025, with performances at 8 PM nightly at the charming CDC Theatre, located at 78 Winans Ave. in Cranford.

This production is designed to take its audience on a unique journey, shifting seamlessly from intense suspense to uproarious absurdity. It’s a show that promises to be both captivating and perhaps a little unsettling, making it an experience that may not be suitable for all audiences, but certainly for those who appreciate bold and unconventional storytelling.

The evening is split into two distinct acts, each offering a contrasting yet equally compelling narrative:

ACT ONE: “Inside”

The first act plunges you into a dark thriller titled “Inside.” This gripping play tells the harrowing tale of five seemingly “innocent” individuals desperately trying to escape a crumbling high-rise building. As their desperate situation unfolds, they come to a chilling realization: the true horror isn’t just the collapsing structure, but the psychological torment of being trapped with one another. It’s a profound exploration of human nature under extreme duress, where relationships fray and the line between sanity and madness blurs. Expect suspense, tension, and a deep dive into the complexities of human interaction when survival is on the line.

ACT TWO: “David Mamet’s Peter Pan (not by David Mamet)”

Following the intensity of “Inside,” Act Two takes a sharp turn into the wonderfully absurd with “David Mamet’s Peter Pan (not by David Mamet).” This brilliantly satirical piece imagines the beloved characters of Peter, Wendy, Smee, Captain Hook, Tinker-belle, and the Crocodile thrust into the high-pressure cooker of a Hollywood studio. This studio, desperate for a blockbuster hit, becomes a chaotic stage where the magic of Neverland clashes hilariously with the cutthroat realities of show business. It’s a clever, witty, and undoubtedly funny deconstruction of classic characters in a truly unexpected setting.

Experience the CDC Theatre: A BYOB Destination

The CDC Theatre itself adds to the charm of the experience. Known for its intimate setting and dedication to quality community theater, it provides the perfect backdrop for such a dynamic production. Plus, it’s a BYOB venue, allowing you to bring your favorite beverages to enjoy responsibly during the show, enhancing your evening out.

“Stages of Madness” is a testament to the creative spirit thriving in New Jersey’s local theater scene. It’s an opportunity to see a unique double feature that will leave you talking long after the curtain falls.

Ready to experience this extraordinary theatrical event? Secure your tickets and discover more about the vibrant arts and culture scene in New Jersey!