A Night With NéLasheé
2026-12-19 20:00 - 23:30 (America/New_York) | Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC), 102 State St, Hackensack, New Jersey, 07601, United States
“A Night With NéLasheé” Brings Powerhouse Vocals and a Deeply Personal Divas Tribute Home to Hackensack This December

On December 19, 2026, at 8:00 p.m., the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre will host a performance that merges vocal mastery, storytelling, and cultural homage into a singular live experience as Yolanda NéLasheé Kelley presents “A Night With NéLasheé: Love’s in Need of Love.” Set at HACPAC, this intimate, high-energy production offers audiences a rare opportunity to witness a one-woman musical showcase that is as emotionally resonant as it is technically commanding, reinforcing New Jersey’s reputation as a home for deeply personal, artist-driven performances.

Positioned within the broader landscape of live entertainment highlighted by Explore New Jersey Music Scene and adjacent performance categories, this event transcends traditional genre boundaries. While rooted in musical performance, it carries the immediacy and connection of live storytelling often found in stand-up, creating a hybrid format that speaks directly to modern audiences seeking authenticity and engagement. It is not simply a concert—it is a narrative-driven experience that unfolds through song, memory, and presence.

At the center of the production is Yolanda NéLasheé Kelley, a vocalist whose range and interpretive ability allow her to inhabit a wide spectrum of musical styles while maintaining a distinct and recognizable voice. Her performance is structured as a tribute to the artists who have shaped her artistic identity, with selections drawn from a lineage of iconic performers whose influence continues to define contemporary music. These are not straightforward covers; they are reinterpretations that carry both reverence and individuality, reflecting a performer who understands the weight of the material she engages with.

The concept of the “divas tribute” is central to the show’s identity, but NéLasheé approaches it with a level of depth that elevates it beyond homage. Each segment is framed within a broader narrative, connecting the music to moments of personal and cultural significance. The inclusion of tributes to figures such as Nell Carter underscores this approach, highlighting not only musical excellence but also the historical and emotional impact of these artists. Through this lens, the performance becomes a dialogue between past and present, where legacy is both honored and reimagined.

What distinguishes “A Night With NéLasheé” is its structure as a solo performance. The absence of additional performers places the full weight of the production on NéLasheé’s ability to command the stage, sustain energy, and maintain audience engagement over the course of the evening. This format demands a level of discipline and presence that few performers can achieve, requiring seamless transitions between musical numbers and spoken narrative. NéLasheé meets this challenge with a performance style that is both controlled and expressive, allowing the show to unfold with a natural rhythm that feels both intentional and immediate.

The storytelling component of the production adds a critical dimension to the experience. Between songs, NéLasheé shares reflections that provide context for the material, offering insight into her journey as an artist and the influences that have shaped her path. These moments create a sense of intimacy, drawing the audience into the performance on a personal level. It is within this space that the show’s emotional resonance becomes most apparent, as music and narrative converge to create a cohesive and impactful experience.

The significance of this performance is further amplified by NéLasheé’s connection to Hackensack. As a native of the city, her return to the HACPAC stage carries a sense of continuity and celebration, acknowledging the community that played a role in her development. Her recognition of local educators and mentors who fostered her early passion for music adds a layer of authenticity to the production, transforming it into both a personal milestone and a communal moment. This connection reinforces the role of local venues in supporting and showcasing homegrown talent, creating pathways for artists to engage with their roots while reaching broader audiences.

From a musical perspective, the repertoire is designed to showcase both range and versatility. The setlist moves fluidly between genres and eras, reflecting the diversity of influences that define NéLasheé’s artistry. Each selection is approached with a focus on interpretation, allowing the material to feel both familiar and newly discovered. This balance is critical in maintaining audience engagement, ensuring that the performance remains dynamic while honoring the integrity of the original works.

The production’s subtitle, “Love’s in Need of Love,” signals a thematic throughline that extends beyond individual songs. It speaks to a broader message about connection, empathy, and the role of music as a unifying force. In a cultural moment where audiences are increasingly drawn to performances that offer both entertainment and meaning, this thematic focus positions the show as more than a retrospective—it becomes a statement about the enduring relevance of the music and the emotions it carries.

HACPAC’s role in presenting this performance reflects its ongoing commitment to programming that is both diverse and artistically significant. By hosting a show that blends music, narrative, and cultural tribute, the venue continues to expand its offerings in ways that resonate with a wide range of audiences. This approach aligns with a broader strategy of positioning the theatre as a space where different forms of performance can intersect, creating experiences that are both accessible and impactful.

The ticket structure, with entry starting at $20 and extending into premium seating tiers, ensures that the event remains accessible while offering enhanced experiences for those seeking a more immersive engagement. This balance reflects an understanding of audience needs, providing options that accommodate both casual attendees and dedicated fans.

As December approaches, “A Night With NéLasheé” stands out as a defining event within the holiday season’s cultural calendar. It offers a performance that is both celebratory and introspective, combining the energy of live music with the depth of personal storytelling. For audiences in New Jersey and beyond, it represents an opportunity to experience an artist at the intersection of technical skill and emotional authenticity.

In bringing her voice, her story, and her influences to the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Yolanda NéLasheé Kelley delivers a production that captures the essence of live performance at its most compelling. It is an evening shaped by music, memory, and connection—an experience that resonates long after the final note and reaffirms the power of performance to both entertain and inspire.
