Tony Award–Winning Composer Jason Robert Brown Brings Contemporary Musical Theater Mastery to PEAK in Major New Jersey Cultural Event

NEW JERSEY — One of contemporary musical theater’s most influential voices is set to take center stage in the Garden State as Tony Award–winning composer and lyricist Jason Robert Brown arrives at PEAK for a highly anticipated live performance event. Known worldwide for redefining modern musical storytelling through emotionally powerful scores and groundbreaking theatrical works, Brown will present selections from his celebrated catalog alongside special guest performers Ashley Pérez Flanagan and Nasia Thomas.

The performance marks a major cultural moment for New Jersey’s thriving live music and performing arts scene, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the creative force behind some of Broadway’s most beloved modern productions — including The Last Five Years, Parade, and The Bridges of Madison County.

As New Jersey continues to emerge as a premier destination for world-class entertainment, the event reflects the state’s growing reputation as a hub for elite artistic programming and transformative live performance experiences.

A Defining Voice in Modern Musical Theater

Jason Robert Brown stands among the most respected composers and lyricists working in contemporary theater today. His work has helped shape a new era of musical storytelling — blending sophisticated orchestration, emotionally driven narratives, and deeply personal songwriting that resonates across generations.

Over the past three decades, Brown’s influence has transformed the musical theater landscape. His compositions are known for their cinematic scope, complex emotional range, and innovative musical structures that push the boundaries of traditional Broadway composition.

Among his most celebrated works:

• The Last Five Years — A landmark contemporary musical exploring love and relationships through an innovative dual timeline structure
• Parade — A Tony Award–winning historical drama recognized for its powerful storytelling and social commentary
• The Bridges of Madison County — A sweeping romantic score celebrated for its orchestral richness and emotional depth

At PEAK, audiences can expect a dynamic program featuring selections from these iconic productions alongside other favorites and rare deep cuts from Brown’s expansive composing repertoire.

The performance offers not only a concert but an immersive exploration of the creative voice behind some of the most influential theatrical works of the modern era.

A Signature Performance Experience

Brown’s live performances are known for their energy, intimacy, and musical brilliance. Whether at the piano or leading an ensemble, he brings a deeply personal connection to his work, offering insight into the stories, themes, and inspirations behind his compositions.

Unlike traditional theatrical presentations, this event places audiences directly inside the creative process — blending performance, storytelling, and musical interpretation into a uniquely engaging experience.

The concert format allows Brown to explore his repertoire with flexibility, highlighting both celebrated Broadway numbers and lesser-known compositions that reveal the breadth of his artistic vision.

Acclaimed Guest Performers Join the Stage

Enhancing the evening’s musical depth are two powerhouse performers from the Broadway stage.

Ashley Pérez Flanagan

Ashley Pérez Flanagan brings extraordinary vocal range and theatrical presence to the performance. She has appeared on Broadway in Freestyle Love Supreme and Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812, establishing herself as one of theater’s most dynamic contemporary performers.

A Lortel Award winner, her extensive Off-Broadway credits include Oratorio For Living Things, Safety Not Guaranteed, The Connector — composed by Jason Robert Brown — The Beautiful Lady, Morning//Mourning, In The Green, The Lucky Ones, and Hadestown. Her collaboration with Brown offers audiences a uniquely authentic interpretation of his work.

Nasia Thomas

Nasia Thomas joins the performance with an impressive Broadway resume that spans some of theater’s most celebrated productions. She has appeared in SIX the Musical as Anne of Cleves and served as a stand-in for Cathy in The Last Five Years.

Her Broadway credits also include Caroline, or Change, Ain’t Too Proud, and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Beyond the stage, Thomas has appeared in television series including “4400” and “Harlem,” further showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Together, Flanagan and Thomas elevate the concert experience, bringing Brown’s compositions to life through powerful vocal performance and dramatic interpretation.

A Major Cultural Event for New Jersey’s Performing Arts Scene

The arrival of Jason Robert Brown represents more than a single performance — it reflects New Jersey’s growing status as a center for world-class performing arts.

Across the state, theaters, concert venues, and cultural institutions continue to attract globally recognized artists, expanding access to elite live performance experiences for residents and visitors alike. The state’s arts infrastructure supports a vibrant ecosystem where Broadway talent, international musicians, and emerging artists converge.

Readers exploring the full scope of the state’s entertainment landscape can discover additional performances and events through the <a href=”https://explorenewjersey.org/music/”>music</a> section, which highlights New Jersey’s diverse and rapidly expanding live performance offerings.

Why Jason Robert Brown’s Work Resonates Today

Brown’s music speaks to contemporary audiences because it addresses universal themes — love, identity, resilience, and human connection — through sophisticated musical storytelling.

His work often blends elements of classical composition, jazz, pop, and traditional theater scoring, creating a sound that feels both timeless and modern. This fusion has helped introduce new audiences to musical theater while maintaining deep appeal for longtime fans.

His influence extends beyond Broadway, shaping film scores, concert music, and new theatrical productions while mentoring the next generation of composers and performers.

Strengthening New Jersey’s Role in the National Arts Landscape

Events featuring internationally celebrated creators like Jason Robert Brown contribute significantly to New Jersey’s cultural and economic vitality. Live performances generate tourism, support local arts organizations, and strengthen community engagement with the performing arts.

The state’s strategic investment in cultural programming continues to position New Jersey as a leader in arts accessibility and artistic excellence. From major arena events to intimate theatrical experiences, the Garden State offers an unmatched spectrum of live entertainment.

The presence of Broadway-caliber talent also reinforces New Jersey’s connection to the broader theater ecosystem of the Northeast, creating opportunities for collaboration and artistic growth.

The Evolution of Live Theater in New Jersey

New Jersey’s performing arts environment has evolved dramatically in recent years, with audiences increasingly seeking immersive, high-quality cultural experiences. Concert-style theatrical performances, composer showcases, and artist-led presentations have gained popularity as audiences desire deeper engagement with creative work.

Jason Robert Brown’s appearance at PEAK reflects this shift — offering a performance that is both intimate and expansive, educational and entertaining, personal and universal.

Such events continue to redefine how audiences experience musical theater, expanding the traditional boundaries of stage performance.

An Unmissable Experience for Theater and Music Enthusiasts

For Broadway fans, music lovers, and cultural explorers, Jason Robert Brown’s performance promises an extraordinary evening of artistry and storytelling. The combination of iconic compositions, exceptional guest performers, and intimate musical presentation creates a rare opportunity to witness one of musical theater’s most influential creators in a live setting.

The event highlights the continued growth of New Jersey’s cultural scene and reinforces the state’s commitment to presenting world-class entertainment.

As the Garden State continues to expand its influence in the national arts landscape, performances like this demonstrate the power of live music and theater to inspire, connect, and elevate communities — solidifying New Jersey’s place at the forefront of cultural innovation and artistic excellence.