Count Basie Center Celebrates 100 Years with Star-Studded Centennial Gala in Red Bank

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the historic Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre will host a landmark event as part of the Count Basie Center’s yearlong Centennial Celebration: a one-night-only gala featuring multi-platinum artist Josh Groban, joined by special guest and EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson. This evening marks the culmination of 100 years of cultural impact, honoring the theater’s enduring legacy while spotlighting its educational programs and community contributions.

The gala serves as the centerpiece of the Center’s 16-month Centennial Celebration, which officially commemorates its centennial in November 2026. In addition to world-class performances, the evening will honor the remarkable service of Board Chairperson Jeremy Grunin and celebrate milestone anniversaries for two of the Center’s student-focused initiatives: a decade of student productions and ten years of its acclaimed Mexican dance programs. Both programs have fostered young talent across New Jersey, providing students with mentorship, performance opportunities, and artistic exposure that extend beyond the classroom.

Attendees can expect an evening that blends musical grandeur with the intimate ambiance of Red Bank’s premier performing arts venue. Josh Groban, renowned for his soaring vocals and emotive performances, will headline the gala with a carefully curated setlist spanning classical crossover hits and contemporary favorites. Jennifer Hudson, celebrated for her powerhouse vocals and award-winning performances on stage and screen, will join Groban for select duets, promising rare collaborations that highlight the gala’s once-in-a-lifetime character. The performance will be accompanied by a full orchestra, underscoring the Count Basie Center’s long-standing commitment to presenting high-caliber live music.

Tickets for this exclusive event will be available to the general public beginning Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM through the Count Basie Center website and Ticketmaster. Given the one-night-only nature of the gala and the star-studded lineup, organizers anticipate strong demand, with premium seating providing unobstructed views of both the performers and the theater’s historic interior.

While the Red Bank gala is a singular celebration, it also aligns with Groban and Hudson’s larger 2026 North American summer tour. Fans in nearby cities will have opportunities to see the duo in concert, with stops including New York City’s Madison Square Garden on June 12 and Philadelphia’s Xfinity Mobile Arena on June 7. The Red Bank event offers a unique opportunity to experience the artists in a more intimate, historically rich setting, highlighting New Jersey’s own cultural landmarks while connecting audiences to a broader national music tour.

Beyond entertainment, the gala underscores the Count Basie Center’s continued dedication to community engagement and arts education. Over the past century, the theater has served as a hub for diverse musical genres, theatrical productions, and educational programs that have shaped generations of performers. The Centennial Gala celebrates not only the artistry on stage but also the institutions and individuals who have supported and nurtured creative growth within the state.

For music lovers and cultural enthusiasts, this gala represents a convergence of history, artistry, and New Jersey pride. The event exemplifies how the Count Basie Center continues to honor its legacy while presenting contemporary performances that resonate with audiences of all ages. Fans and attendees looking to explore other live performances and music opportunities across the state can discover more through Explore New Jersey’s music coverage, offering a guide to venues, concerts, and events that showcase the Garden State’s vibrant performing arts scene.

With its combination of star power, historic significance, and educational recognition, the Count Basie Center Centennial Gala promises an unforgettable evening in Red Bank, celebrating a century of artistic excellence while laying the foundation for the next 100 years of cultural contribution in New Jersey.