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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251212T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251213T233000
DTSTAMP:20260420T085616
CREATED:20250914T135057Z
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SUMMARY:Taking Back Sunday – 11th Annual Holiday Spectacular
DESCRIPTION:Taking Back Sunday – 11th Annual Holiday Spectacular – Starland Ballroom – December 12 & 13\, 2025 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGet ready for a two-night celebration with Taking Back Sunday at the Starland Ballroom as they present their 11th Annual Holiday Spectacular. Known for their electrifying live performances and deeply emotive lyrics\, Taking Back Sunday continues to connect with fans old and new. Their eighth studio album\, 152\, released in late 2023\, showcases ten fresh tracks that blend vulnerability\, intensity\, and ambition\, cementing the band’s status as one of the most compelling voices in alternative rock today. \n\n\n\nSince their early days\, Taking Back Sunday has gone from aspiring musicians hoping to release an album and tour\, to global performers with millions of albums sold\, hundreds of millions of streams\, and headline slots at major music festivals around the world. Yet\, despite their achievements\, the band remains committed to creating music that resonates personally with their audience. Their goal is simple: to craft songs that fans can connect with\, get lost in\, and share a sense of belonging through the power of music. \n\n\n\nTickets go on sale Friday\, September 12 at 12 PM ET\, offering fans the chance to be part of an unforgettable live experience filled with energy\, emotion\, and the band’s signature intensity. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Taking Back Sunday deliver both classic hits and tracks from their latest album in an intimate yet high-energy setting. \n\n\n\nFor additional concert updates\, ticket information\, and live music events across New Jersey\, explore the full Explore New Jersey entertainment directory.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/taking-back-sunday-11th-annual-holiday-spectacular/
LOCATION:Starland Ballroom\, 570 Jernee Mill Rd\, Sayreville\, New Jersey\, 08872\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://explorenewjersey.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/7909c5e2-5b48-4c03-83ee-c30a5438426d.jpg
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CREATED:20251205T154553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T154607Z
UID:71410-1765569600-1765668600@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:Cirque Dreams Holidaze
DESCRIPTION:Cirque Dreams Holidaze Returns to State Theatre New Jersey for a Spectacular Holiday Celebration \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nState Theatre New Jersey is set to dazzle audiences this holiday season with the return of Cirque Dreams Holidaze\, performing for three shows from December 12–13\, 2025. Celebrated as the original cirque holiday theatrical event\, Holidaze transforms the stage into a wonderland of breathtaking acrobatics\, holiday magic\, and Broadway-style storytelling\, offering a festive experience that appeals to audiences of all ages. \n\n\n\nThis annual tradition blends the theatricality of Broadway with the gravity-defying artistry of contemporary circus performance. From the moment the lights dim\, guests are transported into a world of imagination\, where holiday characters leap\, twirl\, and soar across the stage. With its mix of aerialists\, jugglers\, acrobats\, and dancers\, Cirque Dreams Holidaze captures the excitement\, joy\, and whimsy of the season\, keeping audiences captivated for the full 90-minute performance. \n\n\n\nFor 2025\, the show has been reimagined with fresh elements\, including new sets\, original music\, updated choreography\, and dazzling costumes. Classic holiday favorites are performed live\, giving beloved seasonal songs a contemporary twist\, while inventive staging and visual effects create an immersive experience that feels both magical and modern. Singers\, dancers\, toy soldiers\, and reindeer characters bring the story to life\, evoking the wonder and joy of childhood while offering entertainment that resonates with adults and seniors alike. \n\n\n\nWhat sets Cirque Dreams Holidaze apart is its ability to combine family-friendly storytelling with technically stunning performances. Audiences can expect jaw-dropping aerial acts\, precision-driven acrobatics\, sleight-of-hand juggling\, and interactive skits that blur the line between theatre and circus artistry. Each segment is meticulously crafted to highlight the performers’ skill while immersing spectators in a holiday narrative filled with warmth\, humor\, and festive cheer. \n\n\n\nThe show has become a holiday must-see\, earning accolades from audiences and critics alike. Broadway World praised it as an experience that allows viewers to “lose yourself for 90 minutes and go back to those wonderful dreams you had as a kid\,” emphasizing its universal appeal and nostalgic charm. For New Jersey families\, visitors\, and theatre enthusiasts\, Cirque Dreams Holidaze offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the season in a way that combines artistry\, storytelling\, and heart-stopping spectacle. \n\n\n\nState Theatre New Jersey’s presentation of Cirque Dreams Holidaze is more than just a performance—it’s an event that brings communities together\, provides unforgettable memories\, and celebrates the spirit of the holidays in a way only live theatre can. Tickets are available for all three performances\, offering multiple opportunities for families\, friends\, and fans of circus arts to enjoy a festive night out. \n\n\n\nFor more information on live shows\, theatre experiences\, and seasonal entertainment across the state\, readers can explore entertainment coverage on Explore New Jersey\, highlighting the best events\, performances\, and cultural experiences New Jersey has to offer. \n\n\n\nWhether experiencing the breathtaking aerial feats\, the lively music\, or the imaginative storytelling\, Cirque Dreams Holidaze continues to uphold its reputation as the ultimate holiday celebration\, making it a memorable centerpiece of New Jersey’s festive season.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/cirque-dreams-holidaze-2/
LOCATION:State Theatre New Jersey\, 15 Livingston Avenue \, NJ\, New Brunswick\, NJ\, 08901\, United States
CATEGORIES:Extreme Sports,Theatre
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ORGANIZER;CN="State Theatre New Jersey":MAILTO:Info@stnj.org
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LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T150800Z
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SUMMARY:The Sensational Soul Cruisers
DESCRIPTION:The Sensational Soul Cruisers are not just another 11-man vocal harmony group with horns. While it is still sometimes possible to find a band featuring a similar line up of instruments\, it is unlikely that you will ever find another that performs with as much energy\, passion\, and talent as these guys. From their humble beginnings rehearsing in Freehold Borough at the chicken coops on Route 33 to the basement of the Cycle Shop on Throckmorton Street\, this band has come a long way from its “Eddie and the Cruisers” days to become one of New Jersey’s best kept secrets.\nUnder the tutelage of legendary Jersey Shore sax player Screamin’ Steve Barlotta\, who has been the captain of this fantastic soul cruise for over 30 years\, who has catapulted this band from the recesses of a dingy basement to over 200 performances a year while capturing the true essence of the Jersey Shore sound and its true R&B roots. Fortunately for those of us that feel that the sound of classic Philly Soul\, Motown\, Disco\, Stax\, and the music of The Temptations\, Four Tops\, Earth Wind & Fire\, Chicago\, The Trammps and other such groups was and still is some of the best music ever recorded or played live\, there will be plenty of chances to see the Sensational Soul Cruisers perform this year and for many years to come. While the band travels to and plays concerts in theaters\, clubs\, public festivals\, and private events throughout the country\, they will be spending quite a bit of time up & down the east coast this year.\nOver the past 3 decades the Soul Cruisers have been fortunate enough to grace the stage with many great artist from Bruce Springsteen\, Little Anthony and The Imperials\, Gloria Gaynor\, Gary US Bonds\, John Cafferty\, Southside Johnny\, The Emotions\, Bon Jovi\, Smokey Robinson\, Stevie Wonder. As well as being the long time favorite house band at New York City’s famed Copacabana.\nBand Members:\nScreamin’ Steve Barlotta – Tenor Saxophone\nStan Tartas – Bass Guitar\nSir Michael Winstanley – Keyboards\nMatt Curran – Drums\nDr. Steve Hyde– Trumpet\nJC Rossetti – Guitar & Vocals\nGabriel Morris – Vocals\nMichael Hartsfield – Vocals\nEric Barney – Vocals\nRonnie Wah Wah Anthony – Vocals\nPete Maurer – Trombone
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/the-sensational-soul-cruisers/
LOCATION:Count Basie Center for the Arts\, 99 Monmouth Street\, Red Bank\, New Jersey\, 07701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Music
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LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T155818Z
UID:48880-1765584000-1765584000@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:Holiday Doo Wop
DESCRIPTION:LAR ENTERPRISES PRESENTS HOLIDAY DOO-WOP AT bergenPAC This rendition of Holiday Doo Wop features:\nJay Siegel’s Tokens – “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”\nChris Montez – “Let’s Dance”\nJoey Dee – “Peppermint Twist”\nBrian Hyland – “Sealed With a Kiss”\nThe Excellents – “Coney Island Baby”\nThe Fireflies “You Were Mine”\nA cappella by Classic Sounds\nTom Schizzano & The LAR Enterprises Band
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/holiday-doo-wop-2/
LOCATION:New Jersey
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Music,Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://explorenewjersey.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Holiday-Doo-Wop-2025-840-4d736e3295-bSZzy8.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251213T000000
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CREATED:20250728T133117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T150429Z
UID:49078-1765584000-1765584000@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:Ballet for Young Audiences: The Nutcracker
DESCRIPTION:Join Ballet for Young Audiences as they present another year of this Grunin Center holiday tradition. This child-friendly production of The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara\, the favorite godchild of Herr Drosselmeyer\, a mysterious clockmaker who helps to transport Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to a special realm. This condensed version of the ballet is narrated to help young ballet enthusiasts enjoy the performance.\nPlease note that it is the Grunin Center Policy for all Family Shows that all attendees\, regardless of age\, require a ticket.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/ballet-for-young-audiences-the-nutcracker/
LOCATION:New Jersey
CATEGORIES:Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://explorenewjersey.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Nutcracker-2025-1920X1080-Feature-t3lTkl.jpg
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CREATED:20250728T133118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T150429Z
UID:49080-1765584000-1765584000@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:Broadway for the Holidays 5
DESCRIPTION:It’s another year of the rousing review that celebrates the most wonderful time of the year: Broadway for the Holidays 5! Returning by popular demand\, this festive extravaganza brings the magic of Broadway to the holiday season like never before. Join OCC students and community members for a journey through the beloved songs and timeless classics that capture the spirit of the holidays. From heartwarming ballads to toe-tapping showstoppers\, Broadway for the Holidays 5 promises an unforgettable musical experience for the whole family.\nPerformances\nFriday\, December 12\, 2025 7:30 PM\nSaturday\, December 13\, 2025 2:00 PM\nSaturday\, December 13\, 2025 7:30 PM\nSunday\, December 14\, 2025 2:00 PM\nFriday\, December 19\, 2025 7:30 PM\nSaturday\, December 20\, 2025 2:00 PM\nSaturday\, December 20\, 2025 7:30 PM\nSunday\, December 21\, 2025 2:00 PM\nCast\nCheck back soon\nProduction Crew\nCheck back soon\nAbout the OCC Repertory Theater Company\nUnder the direction of Performing Arts Program Chair Paul Chalakani\, the mission of the OCC/REP is to create opportunities for college and community participation in various rich and diverse theatrical experiences. The Company seeks to engage\, entertain\, inspire\, and educate to enhance the cultural life of Ocean County College and the surrounding communities. The OCC/REP provides OCC students\, faculty\, staff\, and residents of neighboring communities the opportunity to attend and/or participate in quality performances of theatrical works – musicals and plays\, classical and modern\, traditional and experimental\, through a well-balanced theatrical season. Additionally\, the OCC/REP provides an environment for students of our performing arts program to apply what they are learning in a collaborative and encouraging format. The OCC/REP celebrates the power of the theatre to illuminate and mirror the human experience.\nThe OCC Repertory Theatre Company is funded\, in part\, by the Ocean County College Foundation.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/broadway-for-the-holidays-5-2/
LOCATION:New Jersey
CATEGORIES:Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://explorenewjersey.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bway-for-the-Holidays-5-nm6XPB.jpg
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CREATED:20250728T133119Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T150429Z
UID:49082-1765584000-1765584000@explorenewjersey.org
SUMMARY:Ballet for Young Audiences: The Nutcracker
DESCRIPTION:Join Ballet for Young Audiences as they present another year of this Grunin Center holiday tradition. This child-friendly production of The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara\, the favorite godchild of Herr Drosselmeyer\, a mysterious clockmaker who helps to transport Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to a special realm. This condensed version of the ballet is narrated to help young ballet enthusiasts enjoy the performance.\nPlease note that it is the Grunin Center Policy for all Family Shows that all attendees\, regardless of age\, require a ticket.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/ballet-for-young-audiences-the-nutcracker-2/
LOCATION:New Jersey
CATEGORIES:Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://explorenewjersey.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Nutcracker-2025-1920X1080-Feature-t3lTkl.jpg
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