Explore New Jersey

John Denver Christmas featuring Chris Collins & Boulder Canyon
2025-12-20 00:00 (America/New_York) | Algonquin Arts Theatre, 60 Abe Voorhees Dr, Manasquan, 08736, United States
Celebrate the joy, magic, and memories of the holidays with . Join award-winning international artists Chris Collins and Boulder Canyon for a heartwarming evening inspired by John Denver’s iconic Christmas specials. This acclaimed show brings the festive spirit to life, making it a must-see event.

Broadway for the Holidays 5
2025-12-20 00:00, 2025-12-21 00:00 | New Jersey
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.
Performances
Friday, December 12, 2025 7:30 PM
Saturday, December 13, 2025 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 13, 2025 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 14, 2025 2:00 PM
Friday, December 19, 2025 7:30 PM
Saturday, December 20, 2025 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 20, 2025 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 21, 2025 2:00 PM
Cast
Check back soon
Production Crew
Check back soon
About the OCC Repertory Theater Company
Under 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.
The OCC Repertory Theatre Company is funded, in part, by the Ocean County College Foundation.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Big Band starring Zack Alexander
2025-12-21 00:00 | Algonquin Arts Theatre, 60 Abe Voorhees Dr, Manasquan, 08736, United States
Experience the magic of the season with , starring jazz vocalist and ‘Sinatra Idol’ winner Zack Alexander. Known for his rat pack-inspired style, Zack brings the Great American Songbook to life with every note. Join us for holiday classics and big band hits to swing you into the season!

Darlene Love - Love For The Holidays
2025-12-21 00:00 | New Jersey
Rolling Stone Magazine has proclaimed Darlene Love to be “one of the greatest singers of all time” and that certainly rings true, but perhaps Paul Shaffer says it even more concisely: “Darlene Love is Rock N’ Roll!” – which was made official when she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Bette Midler, a great fan of her work, in 2011. During the celebration, the two ladies enjoyed performing “He’s A Rebel” together and as part of the festivities, Darlene also sang “He’s A Fine, Fine Boy” backed by another distinguished fan, Bruce Springsteen. At the Academy Awards, Darlene sang her powerful acceptance speech on behalf of all of the performers in the winning film “Twenty Feet From Stardom.” As she raised the Oscar, the entire house stood with a cheering ovation, led by the wildly applauding Bill Murray. It was another special moment in a great career. A Grammy award soon followed for the soundtrack of the film.  Her Billboard hits include: He’s A Rebel, The Boy I’m Gonna Marry, Wait ‘Til My Bobby Gets Home, He’s Sure the Boy I Love and the #1 holiday classic Christmas Baby (Please Come Home), a song that she performed annually with Paul Shaffer and the CBS Symphony Orchestra on The Late Show With David Letterman for some 29 years until Letterman retired.  To continue this long-standing tradition, Darlene performs a number of special Christmas shows every year and continues to enchant her fans with the Christmas spirit.

Jessica Lynn: A Very Merry Classic Christmas
2025-12-21 00:00 | The Newton Theatre, 234 Spring St, , NJ, Newton, NJ, 07860, United States
Jessica Lynn’s record-breaking and award-winning “A Very Merry Classic Christmas” has become agenuine holiday tradition, rivaling, and even eclipsing some of the biggest Christmas spectaculars.Touring nationwide, this fun-filled,interactive family sleigh ride through the most wonderful time ofthe year was named by press as the “#1 Great Thing to do in The Hudson Valley for The Holidays,”“Best of Westchester,” and “Best of Hudson Valley.”A sell-out performance every year, the show is a full multi-media presentation featuring dancers,choirs, surprises, and special FX. With all of the traditional holiday songs you know and love,people of all ages become a part of the show and experience the magic of Christmas while raisingmoneyand collecting toys for Toys for Tots.

The Masterwork Chorus - Handel’s Messiah
2025-12-21 15:00 - 18:30 | The Concert Hall at Drew University, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison, New Jersey, 07940, United States
Experience the Holidays with Masterwork Chorus’ Full-Orchestra Performance of Handel’s Messiah

New Jersey music lovers have a rare opportunity to experience one of the season’s most iconic works when the Masterwork Chorus presents Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, December 21 at 3:00 p.m. at the Concert Hall at Drew University. Under the expert direction of Music Director Martin Sedek, this full-orchestra performance promises to deliver the grandeur, precision, and emotional depth that has made this masterpiece a cornerstone of holiday tradition.

This performance is among the few complete renditions of Handel’s Messiah presented in the state, offering audiences the chance to hear every movement in its full orchestral and choral glory. The evening features the chorus performing alongside four acclaimed soloists, whose expressive interpretations bring the dramatic narrative of the work to life. The synergy of choir, orchestra, and soloists creates a rich, immersive experience that showcases the power and majesty of one of the most celebrated works in classical music.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, patrons seated in the Golden Circle will enjoy a pre-concert champagne reception, providing a festive way to celebrate the season before the performance begins. This adds an extra layer of elegance and community engagement, making the event as much a social occasion as a musical one.

The Masterwork Chorus has long been recognized for its artistic excellence and commitment to New Jersey audiences. Their holiday concerts are celebrated not just for technical mastery but for their ability to evoke emotion and connect with listeners on a profound level. The ensemble’s dedication ensures that every performance—especially one of this scale—maintains the highest musical standards while remaining accessible and inspiring to audiences of all ages.

For residents and visitors looking to explore more seasonal music offerings throughout the state, New Jersey’s vibrant cultural scene is brimming with opportunities. From intimate choral performances to large-scale orchestral presentations, the Garden State offers countless ways to enjoy live music this holiday season. Interested attendees can explore additional performances and events through the music scene to discover new ensembles, seasonal concerts, and festive programs across New Jersey.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Handel or experiencing Messiah for the first time, the Masterwork Chorus performance at Drew University promises to be a highlight of the holiday season. Combining orchestral richness, choral brilliance, and a festive atmosphere, this concert offers an unforgettable celebration of music, tradition, and the spirit of the holidays in New Jersey.

Elf, The Musical
2025-12-21 20:00 - 23:30 | Surflight Theatre, 201 Engleside Ave., Beach Haven, New Jersey, United States
Surflight Theatre Brings Holiday Magic Back with “Elf, The Musical”

Surflight Theatre in Beach Haven is once again spreading holiday cheer as it presents the beloved production “Elf, The Musical”, returning for the first time since 2018. Opening on November 29, 2025, the show will run through December 21, offering families and theatergoers an immersive seasonal experience filled with laughter, music, and festive spirit. For those exploring New Jersey’s vibrant performing arts scene, Explore New Jersey’s Theatre coverage highlights productions like this that bring communities together through storytelling and song.

Adapted from the 2003 hit film, “Elf, The Musical” features a dynamic score by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, with a book adapted by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan. The story follows Buddy, a human raised among elves at the North Pole, as he journeys to New York City to find his biological father and discover his true identity. The show combines humor, heart, and holiday wonder, making it an ideal choice for audiences of all ages looking to celebrate the season in style.

Surflight Theatre’s production stands out for its high-energy performances and family-friendly staging. The cast brings the characters to life with infectious enthusiasm, while creative set designs and festive costumes transport the audience directly into Buddy’s whimsical world. Special attention has been given to musical numbers, ensuring that the lively choreography and memorable tunes create an engaging experience for theatergoers from the first note to the final curtain.

The return of “Elf, The Musical” marks a significant moment for Surflight Theatre, which has long been a hub for regional arts and holiday entertainment. With its sandy Beach Haven location and dedication to professional-quality productions, the theater provides both locals and visitors with a unique venue where the magic of live performance is combined with the festive atmosphere of the Jersey Shore during the holiday season.

Tickets are available for performances throughout December, and the production promises to deliver the same joyous energy that made the show a fan favorite in previous years. From its clever humor to its heartwarming message about family, identity, and the spirit of giving, “Elf, The Musical” at Surflight Theatre is a must-see for anyone seeking a holiday experience that blends professional theater with seasonal fun.

For families, friends, and visitors planning a memorable outing, this production exemplifies the best of New Jersey’s holiday theatre offerings, showcasing how local stages continue to bring beloved stories to life in engaging and creative ways.

Joe Matarese
2025-12-27 20:00 - 23:30 | Scottish Rite Auditorium, 315 White Horse Pike , NJ, Collingswood, New Jersey, 08107, United States
Joe Matarese Brings Holiday Humor Home, Aiming to Create a New New Jersey Tradition

For comedian Joe Matarese, returning to New Jersey in late December is more than just another date on the calendar. His December 27 performance at the Scottish Rite is a homecoming of sorts, one he hopes will grow into an annual holiday tradition rooted in familiarity, laughter, and a distinctly local point of view.

Matarese’s comedy has long drawn from the rhythms of everyday life in New Jersey, where family dynamics, neighborhood quirks, and generational habits provide an endless supply of material. Performing during the holidays only amplifies that connection. It is a time when people are already swapping stories, revisiting old routines, and laughing about shared experiences, all elements that align naturally with his observational style.

Those local ties have been central to Matarese’s career from the start. He began performing stand-up at a time when open mics and word-of-mouth still defined the early climb. Night after night, he refined his voice in clubs and small venues, learning how to read rooms, sharpen timing, and develop the kind of material that resonates beyond punchlines. The process was slow, deliberate, and built on repetition rather than instant visibility.

Today, the landscape looks very different. Social media has become both a megaphone and a proving ground for comedians, offering unprecedented access to audiences while demanding constant output and adaptability. Matarese has embraced the shift, using online platforms to share clips, test ideas, and stay connected with fans, but he remains clear about where comedy truly lives. The stage, he says, is where material earns its stripes, where jokes either land or fall flat in real time.

That balance between digital reach and live performance has shaped how Matarese approaches building an audience. Online exposure may open the door, but consistency and authenticity keep people coming back. His ability to speak to shared experiences, particularly those familiar to New Jersey crowds, has helped him cultivate a loyal following that spans generations.

The Scottish Rite show reflects that philosophy. Rather than chasing spectacle, Matarese focuses on creating an environment that feels comfortable and communal, where the humor flows naturally from recognition. By anchoring the show during the holiday season, he hopes to give audiences something to look forward to each year, a chance to step away from the stress of December and laugh at the absurdities that come with it.

For New Jersey’s thriving live entertainment scene, performances like this reinforce the importance of local venues and artists who understand their audiences. Stand-up comedy, at its best, thrives on connection, and Matarese’s approach embodies that principle. His December return is not just a performance but an invitation to make laughter part of the holiday routine.

As live comedy continues to evolve, New Jersey remains a fertile ground for voices that reflect its character, humor, and shared experiences. For those looking to explore more performances and artists shaping the scene, Explore New Jersey’s stand-up comedy coverage offers a window into the talent bringing laughter to stages across the state.

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert
2025-12-31 00:00 | State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue , NJ, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, United States
Strauss Symphony of America
Nir Kabaretti, conductor (Vienna)
Rebecca Nelsen, soprano (Vienna)
Thomas Weinhappel, baritone (Vienna)
Featuring dancers from
Europaballet St. Pölten (Austria) and
International Champion Ballroom Dancers
Celebrating 30 years in North America, Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert returns to New Brunswick for a dazzling anniversary season. This beloved annual tradition is an unmissable addition to every music-lover’s holiday wish list. At the heart of Salute to Vienna is the richly festive, romantic, and soul-stirring music of Johann Strauss, Jr. Mark the 200th anniversary of the famed composer’s birth with a selection of soaring overtures, arias, and duets that capture the essence of Vienna’s Golden Age, including “The Blue Danube” waltz. With a charming expert in Viennese music at the conductor’s podium, Strauss’ timeless music bursts to life in performances by some of Europe’s finest singers, internationally acclaimed dancers, and a full orchestra. With elegant costumes, bright floral designs, and even a joke or two from the conductor, this cherished tradition is the perfect way to waltz into the new year. Artists subject to change without notice.

Goo Goo Dolls
2025-12-31 20:00 - 23:30 | Hard RockHard Rock Hotel & Casino, 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, 08401, United States
Ring in the New Year with the Goo Goo Dolls at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City

This New Year’s Eve, Atlantic City comes alive with the iconic sound of the Goo Goo Dolls as they take the stage at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena on Wednesday, December 31. Known for their chart-topping hits and electrifying live performances, the band promises an unforgettable night of music, celebration, and high-energy entertainment to close out 2025 in style.

Fans can expect to hear a dynamic mix of classics and fan favorites, including the heartfelt ballads and rock anthems that have made the Goo Goo Dolls one of the most enduring and beloved American rock bands of the past three decades. Their performances are known for a rare combination of raw emotion, tight musicianship, and audience engagement, creating a live concert experience that resonates with listeners of all ages.

The venue itself, Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, offers a premier concert experience with state-of-the-art sound, comfortable seating, and a lively atmosphere perfect for ringing in the New Year. From the moment the band steps on stage, attendees will feel the excitement of a night designed for both longtime fans and newcomers discovering the magic of the Goo Goo Dolls for the first time.

New Year’s Eve concerts in Atlantic City have long been a tradition, and the combination of a celebrated venue and a legendary band makes this event one of the most anticipated on the calendar. Beyond the music, guests can enjoy the energy of the city, from dining and entertainment options nearby to the vibrant nightlife, all adding to the unforgettable experience of welcoming 2026 with friends, family, and fellow music lovers.

Tickets are in high demand, so fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to ensure they don’t miss out on this special performance. The Goo Goo Dolls’ New Year’s Eve show promises to be more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of music, memories, and the start of a brand-new year.

To explore more concerts, live music events, and performances happening throughout New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey Music and discover the state’s thriving music scene this holiday season.

Emo Night Brooklyn: Valentines Day
2026-02-12 08:00 - 17:00 | The Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue, New Jersey, 07712, United States
Emo Night Brooklyn Turns Valentine’s Day Into a High-Energy Late-Night Sing-Along for New Jersey Fans

Emo Night Brooklyn Brings Its Valentine’s Day Party to the Heart of New Jersey’s After-Dark Music Crowd

Valentine’s Day in New Jersey is about to take a louder, more emotional, and far more electric turn as Emo Night Brooklyn delivers its signature late-night DJ dance party experience for a special holiday edition designed for couples, friends, and anyone who still knows every word to the songs that defined an era.

Open to guests 21 and over, Emo Night Brooklyn’s Valentine’s Day celebration invites New Jersey’s nightlife crowd to trade traditional dinner plans for a full-throttle, nostalgia-driven dance floor built around the biggest emo and pop-punk anthems of the last two decades. Tickets start at $17 in advance plus applicable surcharges, with admission available at the door for $23, making it one of the most accessible and high-energy Valentine’s events on the regional calendar.

Doors open at 9 p.m., with the party officially launching at 10 p.m. and continuing deep into the night. From the moment the first track drops, the atmosphere is built for collective release—singing at the top of your lungs, jumping into the crowd, and reconnecting with the soundtrack that shaped a generation of fans who grew up on emotionally charged lyrics and unforgettable hooks.

Unlike a traditional concert, Emo Night Brooklyn operates as a DJ-driven celebration rather than a single-artist performance. The focus is on nonstop momentum, mixing fan-favorite emo, pop-punk, and alternative classics into a continuous dance party that never loses its energy. The result is a room full of people screaming every chorus together, moving from dance-floor chaos to shared sing-alongs in a way that feels more like a community reunion than a typical club night.

A defining element of Emo Night Brooklyn is its reputation for unexpected moments. Past events have become known for surprise guest appearances by well-known artists and bands who drop in to join the party, jump behind the mic, or simply celebrate with the crowd. While nothing is guaranteed, the possibility of an unannounced appearance adds a layer of anticipation that keeps fans talking long after the night ends.

For New Jersey’s late-night crowd, this Valentine’s edition arrives at a moment when themed DJ events and alternative-focused dance parties are becoming an increasingly important part of the state’s live entertainment ecosystem. Emo Night Brooklyn has helped redefine how fans experience the music they grew up with—transforming beloved tracks into shared, high-volume, dance-floor moments that bring together longtime scene veterans and first-timers discovering the culture for the first time.

The Valentine’s Day party also reflects the broader strength and diversity of the New Jersey nightlife and concert landscape, where club shows, DJ events, touring acts, and specialty theme nights coexist side by side. Fans looking to discover more shows, parties, and touring events happening across the state can explore ongoing coverage of the New Jersey live music scene through Sunset Daily News’ dedicated concert and nightlife guide.

Emo Night Brooklyn’s appeal lies in its ability to turn emotional lyrics and high-octane choruses into something communal and celebratory. It is not about standing still and watching a performance—it is about participation. Mosh pits form without warning. Entire rooms lock into the same chorus at once. Strangers become instant friends over shared memories of the songs that once lived in headphones and car stereos and now explode across packed dance floors.

This Valentine’s Day edition is expected to draw a crowd ready for exactly that kind of experience—one built on nostalgia, energy, and unapologetic fun. Whether arriving with a partner, a group of friends, or simply a love for pop-punk and emo classics, Emo Night Brooklyn offers New Jersey fans a different way to celebrate the holiday: louder, later, and surrounded by people who still believe the best love stories were written in three-minute songs.

Over the River and Through the Woods
2026-03-07 17:00 - 2026-03-08 23:30, 2026-03-14 17:00 - 2026-03-15 23:30 | Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC), 102 State St, Hackensack, New Jersey, 07601, United States
A Homegrown Hit Returns to Hackensack: How “Over the River and Through the Woods” Brings Heart, Humor, and Community Back to HACPAC

This March, one of New Jersey’s most cherished community theatre companies returns to a familiar and deeply meaningful stage, as The Company Theatre Group brings the beloved romantic comedy Over the River and Through the Woods to the Hackensack Performing Arts Center for a special two-weekend engagement running from March 7 through March 15, 2026. Marking the organization’s first production at HACPAC since 2019, the performances signal a long-awaited homecoming and a renewed commitment to live theatre in the heart of Bergen County.

Set against the backdrop of a changing family dynamic, Over the River and Through the Woods tells a warm, relatable story about tradition, identity, and the powerful bonds that hold generations together. The play centers on a young professional standing at the crossroads between personal ambition and family loyalty, navigating the expectations of grandparents whose love is unwavering and whose opinions are anything but subtle. What unfolds is a fast-moving, laugh-filled evening of theatre that balances sharp humor with deeply human moments, capturing the universal tension between staying close to home and following a dream that may lead far beyond it.

For New Jersey audiences, the production carries special significance. The play was written by Oradell native Joe DiPietro, whose career has spanned Broadway, international stages, and countless regional productions. His distinctly authentic voice—rooted in family life, neighborhood culture, and the rhythms of everyday conversation—gives the story an unmistakable familiarity for local viewers. It is a reminder that some of the most resonant theatrical stories begin right here in the communities they portray.

The Company Theatre Group has built its reputation on thoughtful storytelling, polished performances, and a strong sense of ensemble, and this production continues that tradition. The cast brings together seasoned performers and emerging local talent, creating a multigenerational ensemble that mirrors the very themes the play explores. The result is a dynamic stage experience in which rapid-fire comedic timing blends seamlessly with quieter, emotionally grounded exchanges that allow the characters to feel both specific and universal.

The return to the Hackensack Performing Arts Center adds another layer of meaning. HACPAC has long served as a cornerstone of the city’s cultural life, welcoming audiences to an intimate venue where professional-quality productions feel personal and accessible. For The Company Theatre Group, stepping back onto this stage for the first time in several years represents more than a change of location—it reflects a renewed connection to a performance space that helped shape the organization’s artistic identity and community presence.

Over the River and Through the Woods is often described as a comedy, but its lasting impact comes from how skillfully it captures the emotional complexity of family relationships. The grandparents at the heart of the story are funny, outspoken, and occasionally overbearing, yet their love is sincere and deeply felt. The play’s humor emerges naturally from real conversations, familiar disagreements, and affectionate attempts to guide a younger generation toward what they believe is best. Audiences will recognize their own family dinners, holiday gatherings, and heartfelt debates in the dialogue unfolding on stage.

For couples, families, and longtime theatre lovers, the production offers an ideal opportunity to experience a story that is entertaining without being superficial and heartfelt without becoming sentimental. It is accessible for first-time theatre-goers while still providing enough emotional nuance and character development to satisfy seasoned patrons. The play’s pacing, short scenes, and lively ensemble work make it particularly engaging for audiences who appreciate storytelling that moves quickly while never sacrificing substance.

The Company Theatre Group’s 2026 presentation also arrives at a moment when regional theatre across the state continues to reassert its role in building vibrant local arts ecosystems. Small and mid-sized venues such as HACPAC play an essential part in cultivating audiences, developing performers, and keeping live theatre woven into everyday community life. For readers interested in discovering additional stage productions and performance venues throughout the Garden State, Explore New Jersey’s theatre and performing arts coverage offers an ongoing guide to the people, companies, and spaces driving the state’s live entertainment scene forward.

From a broader cultural perspective, this production highlights how New Jersey-based stories and voices continue to resonate far beyond the state’s borders. Joe DiPietro’s writing, shaped by his Bergen County upbringing, reflects experiences shared by families everywhere—immigrant traditions, generational expectations, and the difficult but necessary conversations that arise when life paths begin to diverge. By bringing this story home to Hackensack, The Company Theatre Group creates a powerful full-circle moment that connects local heritage with contemporary audiences.

Performances will take place across two consecutive weekends, giving audiences multiple opportunities to experience the show in an intimate and welcoming environment. With limited seating and strong interest expected from both returning patrons and new theatre-goers, the engagement is positioned to become one of the spring’s standout cultural offerings in northern New Jersey.

As The Company Theatre Group steps back onto the HACPAC stage after several years away, Over the River and Through the Woods stands as both a celebration of community theatre and a reminder of the enduring appeal of stories rooted in honesty, humor, and family. For Hackensack and the surrounding region, the production represents a meaningful return—one that reinforces the power of live performance to bring people together, spark conversation, and create shared moments that linger long after the curtain falls.
