Labor Day in Maplewood is about to get a whole lot more theatrical — and delightfully unpredictable. On Monday, September 1, 2025, at 4:30 PM, the Memorial Park Amphitheater will transform into a vibrant stage for Broadway in the Park: Miscast, an outdoor musical celebration presented by SOMA Stage in partnership with the Maplewood Division of Arts and Culture.
This isn’t your typical Broadway tribute. The theme, Miscast, flips traditional casting on its head — giving local performers the chance to belt out show tunes from roles they’d never normally play. That means you might see a powerhouse soprano taking on a role written for a gruff baritone, a seasoned stage veteran channeling a character decades younger, or a performer reimagining an iconic number in a completely unexpected way. The result? A night filled with humor, surprise, and fresh interpretations of Broadway’s most beloved songs.
See the official event listing here.
A Broadway Tradition with a Twist
The Miscast format has become a favorite in the theater world, challenging not only performers but audiences to think differently about storytelling. By switching up the expected casting, these performances explore gender norms, age conventions, and other theatrical “rules” — often with comedic results, but sometimes with surprising emotional depth.
SOMA Stage is bringing this tradition to the heart of Maplewood, featuring a mix of Broadway veterans, seasoned community performers, and emerging local talent. Under the musical direction of Louis Danowsky, each performer will bring their own unique spin to a song that feels both familiar and brand new.
Free Admission, Big Impact
While admission is free, a suggested donation of $15 per person will help keep SOMA Stage’s mission alive — funding future performances, workshops, and community arts programs. Your contribution isn’t just supporting one night of entertainment; it’s investing in the local arts scene and ensuring that Maplewood continues to be a cultural hub for New Jersey theater lovers.
What to Expect on Labor Day
- 📅 Date & Time: Monday, September 1, 2025 — 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
- 📍 Location: Memorial Park Amphitheater, 580 Valley Street, Maplewood, NJ 07040
- 💲 Cost: Free (suggested $15 donation)
- 🎭 All Ages Welcome: From toddlers to theater buffs, this is a true community event.
- 🌧 Rain Plan: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the event will move indoors to The Woodland in Maplewood.
Why You Should Go
- Outdoor Broadway Magic: There’s nothing like live musical theater under the open sky, surrounded by neighbors, friends, and fellow Broadway fans.
- Unexpected Performances: The Miscast concept means you’ll see — and hear — something truly one-of-a-kind.
- Support Local Arts: Your presence and donations help sustain the vibrant performing arts community right here in New Jersey.
Bring a picnic blanket or folding chairs, grab some snacks, and settle in for a late summer evening filled with laughter, music, and community spirit.
More Broadway in New Jersey
Maplewood’s Broadway in the Park is part of a growing list of outdoor musical events that make New Jersey a destination for theater lovers. Whether you’re a regular in the audience or just looking for something special to do this Labor Day, Miscast promises a fresh, joyful, and unforgettable night.
