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SUMMARY:Choir! Choir! Choir! Hallelujah”: An EPIC Anthems Sing-Along!
DESCRIPTION:Choir! Choir! Choir! Brings “Hallelujah: An EPIC Anthems Sing-Along!” to New Jersey for an Unforgettable Interactive Music Experience \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNew Jersey’s vibrant live music scene continues to evolve in exciting ways\, and one of the most unique musical events arriving this fall invites audiences to become the performers themselves. On Friday\, November 6\, 2026 at 8:00 PM\, the internationally celebrated interactive music phenomenon Choir! Choir! Choir! brings its electrifying “Hallelujah: An EPIC Anthems Sing-Along!” to Montclair for a night where the crowd becomes the choir. \n\n\n\nRather than sitting quietly and watching from the audience\, attendees will be invited to raise their voices\, learn harmonies together\, and participate in a massive collaborative musical experience. The concept is simple but powerful: hundreds of strangers gather in one room\, learn parts of a song together\, and then perform it as a unified choir. The result is a joyful\, unforgettable moment of shared music-making that transforms the traditional concert format into something far more immersive. \n\n\n\nEvents like this represent the growing diversity of New Jersey’s music culture\, where performances increasingly blur the line between artist and audience. Across the Garden State\, venues continue to present creative musical programming that celebrates community\, collaboration\, and the power of live performance. The expanding scope of this scene can be seen across the state’s many concerts\, artist showcases\, and cultural events highlighted throughout the Explore New Jersey music section\, which tracks the pulse of the region’s evolving music landscape. \n\n\n\nChoir! Choir! Choir! stands apart from traditional concerts by flipping the entire concept of performance on its head. Instead of musicians performing for an audience\, the audience itself becomes the performer. Under the energetic guidance of directors Daveed Goldman and Nobu Adilman\, participants learn vocal parts\, rehearse together\, and ultimately sing as one massive choir. \n\n\n\nFor attendees\, the experience feels less like a concert and more like a giant musical celebration. The atmosphere resembles a joyful community gathering\, a sing-along party where music lovers of all backgrounds unite through the simple act of singing together. \n\n\n\nThe upcoming event in Montclair centers around one of the most beloved songs ever written: Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Few songs in modern music history have achieved the cultural resonance of this timeless composition. Since its original release\, the song has been interpreted by countless artists and embraced by audiences around the world. \n\n\n\nWithin the Choir! Choir! Choir! experience\, the song becomes something even more powerful. Instead of hearing it performed by a single vocalist\, hundreds of voices come together to create a massive layered arrangement. As participants learn harmonies and vocal sections\, the room gradually transforms into a living\, breathing choir. \n\n\n\nWhen the final performance begins\, the sound of hundreds of voices singing together creates an emotional wave that resonates throughout the venue. For many participants\, the moment becomes deeply moving\, illustrating the profound emotional power of communal music. \n\n\n\nBut the evening does not stop with one song. \n\n\n\nThe program is designed as a journey through some of the greatest anthems ever written. Participants will sing through an eclectic selection of songs that have shaped the soundtrack of modern life. The repertoire spans generations and genres\, celebrating iconic artists whose music continues to bring people together. \n\n\n\nExpect songs associated with legendary writers like Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell\, alongside powerful pop anthems made famous by artists such as Whitney Houston and Shania Twain. Each selection is carefully chosen for its emotional resonance and sing-along potential. \n\n\n\nAs the evening unfolds\, the room fills with laughter\, applause\, and the unmistakable energy that comes from people sharing music together. The environment becomes part concert\, part community gathering\, and part spontaneous musical celebration. \n\n\n\nThe story behind Choir! Choir! Choir! began in 2011 when Daveed Goldman and Nobu Adilman launched the project as an experiment in participatory music. What started as a local sing-along concept quickly evolved into a global phenomenon. \n\n\n\nTheir idea was rooted in a simple but transformative belief: everyone can sing\, and everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of making music together. \n\n\n\nBy removing the barrier between stage and audience\, Goldman and Adilman created a format that welcomes participants regardless of musical experience. No auditions\, no rehearsals beforehand\, and no pressure to perform perfectly. The only requirement is enthusiasm. \n\n\n\nOver the years\, the project has grown into a touring event that has traveled across cities throughout North America and beyond. Along the way\, Choir! Choir! Choir! has collaborated with an extraordinary lineup of artists and cultural icons. \n\n\n\nTheir performances have featured appearances by musicians such as Patti Smith\, David Byrne\, Brandi Carlile\, Rick Astley\, and Rufus Wainwright. In one particularly memorable moment\, even Kermit the Frog joined the choir during a performance at New York’s Lincoln Center. \n\n\n\nMany of these events have been captured on video and shared online\, generating millions of views and introducing the Choir! Choir! Choir! concept to audiences around the world. \n\n\n\nDespite this growing global recognition\, the core spirit of the project remains the same: bringing people together through music. \n\n\n\nAt a time when many forms of entertainment emphasize passive consumption\, Choir! Choir! Choir! offers something refreshingly different. Participants are encouraged to engage fully\, to sing loudly\, to laugh freely\, and to embrace the collective joy of creating sound together. \n\n\n\nFor communities like Montclair\, which has long supported a vibrant arts culture\, the event fits naturally into the town’s creative identity. The area has become known as a destination for performances that celebrate artistic expression across multiple disciplines\, from live music and theater to visual arts and cultural festivals. \n\n\n\nThe venue hosting the event continues that tradition by presenting performances that prioritize artistic connection and audience engagement. Shows like this highlight the importance of live performance as a shared experience rather than a one-directional presentation. \n\n\n\nWhen hundreds of people sing together in one room\, the effect is both musical and emotional. Participants often describe the experience as uplifting\, energizing\, and surprisingly powerful. \n\n\n\nThe reason lies in the simple physics of sound and human connection. When voices harmonize in a large group\, the vibrations resonate throughout the space\, creating a sonic environment that listeners feel as much as they hear. \n\n\n\nFor many participants\, the moment becomes more than entertainment. It becomes a reminder of music’s unique ability to bring people together across differences. \n\n\n\nChoir! Choir! Choir! events often attract participants from diverse backgrounds and age groups. Some attendees are experienced musicians\, while others may have never sung publicly before. Yet once the music begins\, those differences fade away. \n\n\n\nThe choir becomes a community united by melody and rhythm. \n\n\n\nFor New Jersey audiences\, the November 6 performance offers a chance to experience this phenomenon firsthand. Instead of simply watching artists perform\, attendees will become part of the musical experience itself. \n\n\n\nThe invitation is simple: bring friends\, bring family\, and bring your voice. \n\n\n\nNo experience is necessary. The directors will teach the parts\, guide the performance\, and create a welcoming environment where everyone can participate comfortably. \n\n\n\nAs the evening builds toward its climactic sing-along moments\, participants will discover something remarkable. Even a room full of strangers can become a choir when music provides the common language. \n\n\n\nAcross New Jersey’s ever-growing music landscape\, concerts continue to evolve in exciting ways. Some celebrate legendary artists\, others spotlight emerging voices\, and some—like Choir! Choir! Choir!—invite the audience to step directly into the spotlight. \n\n\n\nOn November 6 in Montclair\, the stage will belong to everyone in the room. Hundreds of voices will rise together in harmony\, transforming a simple concert into a shared celebration of music\, community\, and the timeless power of song.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/choir-choir-choir-hallelujah-an-epic-anthems/
LOCATION:Outpost in the Burbs\, 40 South Fullerton Avenue (First Congregational Church)\, Montclair\, New Jersey\, 07042-3396\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Music
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ORGANIZER;CN="Outpost in the Burbs":MAILTO:info@outpostintheburbs.org
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SUMMARY:Merry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics
DESCRIPTION:Merry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics Brings Festive Family Theatre to Madison with The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Classics for Kids! Series \n\n\n\n\n\nAs the holiday season approaches in New Jersey\, families looking for meaningful\, imaginative\, and engaging seasonal experiences will once again find a treasured theatrical tradition waiting for them in Morris County. The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is preparing to present Merry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics\, a festive theatrical celebration designed specifically for young audiences and families eager to share the magic of storytelling together. \n\n\n\nSet to take place at the historic F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre in Madison\, the production represents the fourth and final installment in the theatre’s beloved Classics for Kids! series. Through professional performances\, imaginative storytelling\, and timeless winter tales\, the production promises to deliver a joyful theatrical experience that celebrates the warmth\, wonder\, and humor of the holiday season. \n\n\n\nFor audiences across the Garden State\, the event highlights the enduring role that live theatre continues to play in bringing families together through shared stories and creative expression. \n\n\n\nA Holiday Theatre Experience Designed for Families\n\n\n\nMerry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics is crafted as an accessible introduction to live theatre for younger audiences while remaining entertaining and engaging for adults. \n\n\n\nThe production is structured as a “scripts-in-hand” performance\, a theatrical format that allows professional actors to focus on storytelling\, voice\, and character while presenting classic literature in an intimate and interactive way. \n\n\n\nThis approach emphasizes imagination and language rather than elaborate staging\, allowing audiences to focus on the power of storytelling itself. \n\n\n\nRunning approximately one hour\, the show is intentionally designed to be family-friendly and accessible for children while maintaining the artistic quality that has made The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey one of the most respected classical theatre companies in the country. \n\n\n\nThe next scheduled performance will take place Saturday\, December 19\, 2026 at 11:00 AM\, providing families with the perfect opportunity to enjoy a holiday theatre outing during the festive season. \n\n\n\nThe Magic of Winter Stories Brought to Life\n\n\n\nAt the heart of Merry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics is a collection of beloved winter stories\, poems\, and songs that celebrate generosity\, mystery\, humor\, and imagination. \n\n\n\nProfessional actors bring these tales to life through expressive readings and performances that invite audiences to step into magical worlds filled with whimsical characters and timeless lessons. \n\n\n\nPast performances have featured a delightful range of stories\, including: \n\n\n\n• The Elves and the Shoemaker – the classic tale of generosity and magical craftsmanship• The Rabbit’s Gift – a touching story about kindness and sharing during the winter season• The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle – a festive Sherlock Holmes mystery filled with intrigue and clever deduction \n\n\n\nEach story offers its own tone and lesson\, creating a lively theatrical journey that moves seamlessly from humor to mystery to heartwarming moments of kindness. \n\n\n\nThe result is a performance that captures the full emotional spectrum of holiday storytelling while encouraging young audiences to engage their imaginations. \n\n\n\nA Beloved Series Introducing Children to Live Theatre\n\n\n\nThe Classics for Kids! series has become a signature program at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey\, reflecting the organization’s commitment to arts education and community engagement. \n\n\n\nThe series introduces young audiences to classic literature and theatrical storytelling in an accessible format designed to inspire curiosity and appreciation for the performing arts. \n\n\n\nFor many children\, attending a Classics for Kids! performance represents their first experience with professional theatre. \n\n\n\nThat introduction often sparks a lifelong appreciation for storytelling\, literature\, and artistic expression. \n\n\n\nPrograms like these play a vital role in cultivating future audiences while strengthening the cultural fabric of New Jersey’s arts community. \n\n\n\nThe series also reinforces the idea that theatre is not only for adults or seasoned arts enthusiasts — it is a living\, dynamic art form capable of captivating audiences of all ages. \n\n\n\nCoverage across the Explore New Jersey Theatre section regularly highlights productions like this that demonstrate how the state’s theatres continue expanding access to the performing arts for families and younger audiences. \n\n\n\nThe Historic F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre\n\n\n\nThe production will take place at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre\, located at 36 Madison Avenue in Madison\, New Jersey\, on the campus of Drew University. \n\n\n\nThe venue serves as the artistic home of The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey and has earned a reputation as one of the premier classical theatre spaces in the region. \n\n\n\nFor decades\, the theatre has hosted acclaimed productions of Shakespeare’s works alongside other classical and contemporary plays. \n\n\n\nIts intimate performance environment allows audiences to experience theatre in a way that feels personal and immersive — an ideal setting for storytelling-focused productions like Merry\, Merry Mischief. \n\n\n\nThe theatre’s location in Madison also makes it easily accessible for families traveling from across Morris County\, northern New Jersey\, and the greater New York metropolitan area. \n\n\n\nThe Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Cultural Legacy\n\n\n\nThe Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey stands as one of the leading classical theatre companies in the United States. \n\n\n\nKnown for its dedication to producing high-quality performances of Shakespeare and other classic playwrights\, the theatre has built a reputation for artistic excellence while maintaining a strong commitment to community engagement and arts education. \n\n\n\nThrough its performances\, educational programs\, and outreach initiatives\, the organization serves thousands of students and audience members each year. \n\n\n\nProductions like Merry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics demonstrate how the theatre continues expanding its programming to reach new audiences while preserving the traditions of classical storytelling. \n\n\n\nWhy Holiday Theatre Matters\n\n\n\nHoliday theatre traditions have long played an important role in cultural life across New Jersey. \n\n\n\nWhile large-scale productions and seasonal spectacles draw audiences each year\, smaller intimate performances often provide the most memorable experiences for families. \n\n\n\nBy presenting classic stories through live performance\, theatre companies create moments that encourage families to slow down\, gather together\, and enjoy storytelling as a shared experience. \n\n\n\nThese productions also reinforce the importance of imagination — a quality that lies at the heart of both theatre and childhood itself. \n\n\n\nFor young audience members\, seeing professional actors transform simple scripts into vivid characters and magical worlds can be a transformative experience. \n\n\n\nA Cozy Holiday Tradition for New Jersey Families\n\n\n\nAs winter approaches and holiday traditions return across the Garden State\, Merry\, Merry Mischief: Holiday Classics offers families an opportunity to experience the season through storytelling\, laughter\, and theatrical creativity. \n\n\n\nFrom the playful humor of classic fairy tales to the intrigue of a Sherlock Holmes mystery\, the production captures the spirit of the holidays in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful. \n\n\n\nFor parents\, it provides a chance to introduce children to the joy of live theatre. \n\n\n\nFor children\, it offers a magical hour of imagination and adventure. \n\n\n\nAnd for the broader New Jersey arts community\, it represents another example of how the state’s theatres continue enriching cultural life through performances that bring people together. \n\n\n\nAs audiences gather at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre this December\, they will not only experience a collection of winter stories — they will participate in a tradition that celebrates the enduring power of theatre to spark imagination\, create shared memories\, and keep the magic of storytelling alive for generations to come.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/merry-merry-mischief-holiday-classics/
LOCATION:The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey\, 36 Madison Avenue\, Madison\, New Jersey\, 07940\, United States
CATEGORIES:Theatre
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SUMMARY:A Night With NéLasheé
DESCRIPTION:“A Night With NéLasheé” Brings Powerhouse Vocals and a Deeply Personal Divas Tribute Home to Hackensack This December \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn 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. \n\n\n\nPositioned 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. \n\n\n\nAt 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. \n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\n\nWhat 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. \n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\n\nFrom 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. \n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\n\nHACPAC’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. \n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\n\nAs 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. \n\n\n\nIn 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.
URL:https://explorenewjersey.org/event/a-night-with-nelashee/
LOCATION:Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC)\, 102 State St\, Hackensack\, New Jersey\, 07601\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Music
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ORGANIZER;CN="Hackensack Performing Arts Center":MAILTO:hacpac@hackensack.org
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