Prepare for an unforgettable performance as takes the stage at Algonquin’s Fall Benefit Concert! For over a decade, this world-class tribute band has wowed sold-out audiences worldwide with stunning five-part harmonies, masterful guitar work, and an uncanny ability to recreate the legendary sound of The Eagles.
Rent
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! RENT is back in an all-new production, bringing its powerful story of love, friendship, and resilience. With unforgettable songs like “Seasons of Love” and a message that resonates as strongly today as ever, this Tony Award® and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical is the must-see event of the summer.
The Wizard of Oz
Step into the magical world of Oz featuring all the beloved moments and iconic songs of the classic MGM film. This timeless musical adventure will transport audiences on an adventure with Dorothy, Toto, and their unforgettable friends as they journey down the Yellow Brick Road. Don’t miss this enchanting family favorite, live on stage.
Spamalot
June 27 @ 00:00
“PURE GLEE! SPAMALOT IS DELIRIOUSLY FUNNY!”
—Charles Isherwood, The Wall Street Journal
SPAMALOT, which first galloped onto Broadway in 2005, features a book & lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle. The original Broadway production was nominated for fourteen Tony® Awards and won three, including Best Musical.
The musical comedy, lovingly ripped off from the film classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail, has everything that makes a great knight at the theatre, from flying cows to killer rabbits, British royalty to French taunters, dancing girls, rubbery shrubbery, and of course, the Lady of the Lake. SPAMALOT features well-known song titles such as “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” “The Song That Goes Like This,” “Find Your Grail” and more that have become beloved classics in the musical theatre canon.
Peter Marks of The Washington Post exclaims, “It’s UNFAIR to make me laugh this much! SPAMALOT is a tightly packed clown car speeding to musical theater nirvana!” PHOTOS: The Broadway production of SPAMALOT. Photos by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
Ben Folds in Concert with New Jersey Symphony
June 14 @ 00:00
Ben Folds guest artist
New Jersey Symphony
Emmy®-nominated singer-songwriter-composer Ben Folds joins the New Jersey Symphony for a unique and unforgettable performance of music from across his career. Widely regarded as one of the major musical influences of our generation, Folds’ enormous body of genre-bending music includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. His latest album, 2023’s What Matters Most, is a blend of piano-driven pop-rock songs, while his 2015 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra soared to #1 on both the Billboard classical and classical crossover charts. He released his first Christmas album in 2024 and last Fall recorded a live album slated for release in 2025 with the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., where he served for eight years as the first artistic advisor to the NSO.
Co-presented with New Jersey Symphony
Star Wars: The Last Jedi in Concert with New Jersey Symphony
Constantine Kitsopoulos conductor
New Jersey Symphony
Don’t miss this big-screen battle with the score performed live by the New Jersey Symphony. The Resistance is in desperate need of help when they find themselves impossibly pursued by the First Order. While Rey travels to a remote planet called Ahch-To to recruit Luke Skywalker to the Resistance, Finn and Rose, a mechanic, go on their own mission in the hopes of helping the Resistance finally escape the First Order. But everyone finds themselves on the salt-planet of Crait for a last stand.
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox, LucasFilm Ltd., and Warner/Chappell Music.
© 2017 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. © DISNEY RATED PG-13.
Meredith Willson’s The Music Man
“Grand and Glorious!” “…totally enchanting abso-tootin’-lutely smashing revival. It will give you new life.” —Variety
There’s trouble in River City when a fast-talking salesman gets his heart stolen by the town librarian. Meredith Willson’s six-time, Tony® Award-winning musical comedy The Music Man follows fast-talking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he vows to organize—this, despite the fact that he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. Featuring songs such as “Seventy-Six Trombones,” “Trouble,” “‘Til There Was You,” “Pickalittle,” and “Gary, Indiana,” The Music Man is a family-friendly story to be shared with every generation.
60s Rock ‘n Roll Revival
An incredible four act ’60s Rock ‘n Roll Revival roars into State Theatre New Jersey starring the Grass Roots, The Lovin’ Spoonful, the Brooklyn Bridge, and headliner to be announced!
The Grass Roots had many hit singles in the late ’60s and early ’70s, including three Top 10 singles, six Top 20 singles, 14 Top 40 singles, two gold albums, and sold more than 20 million records worldwide. Hits include “Where Were You When I Needed You,” “Let’s Live for Today,” “Midnight Confession,” “I’d Walk a Million Miles,” “Temptation Eyes,” “Sooner or Later,” “Heaven Knows,” and Two Divided by Love.” In 1982, they performed at the National Mall in Washington D.C. on July 4 to a crowd of over half a million fans.
The Lovin’ Spoonful had seven consecutive Top 10 hits, and only the Beatles and Rolling Stones sold more records in 1966 than the Spoonful. Hits include “Do You Believe in Magic,” “What a Day for a Daydream,” “Summer in the City,” “Did you Ever have to Make up Your Mind,” “You Didn’t have to be so Nice,” “Rain on the Roof,” “Darlin Be Home Soon,” “Six O’Clock,” and “Nashville Cats.” In 2000, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The Brooklyn Bridge formed when the Crests’ lead singer, Johnny Maestro, joined the Del-Satins (Dion’s backup singers) and the Rhythm Method horn section. The Bridge still performs Maestro’s hits, including “16 Candles,” “The Angels Listened In,” and “Step by Step” in addition to their late 1960s hits, “The Worst Than Could Happen,” “Welcome Me Love,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” and “Blessed is the Rain.”
Itzhak Perlman In Recital
No violinist more beautifully captures and conveys the joy of music than Itzhak Perlman, the undeniable reigning virtuoso of violin. In this extraordinary recital, he is joined by his musical partner of over 25 years, Rohan De Silva, in a program celebrating the classical tradition through Perlman’s insightful and modern mastery of the violin and De Silva’s ingeniously fluid accompaniment. “Perlman’s great gift is to deliver timeless music to his audiences with uncomplicated affection, directness and humanity.”—The Washington Post
Stereophonic
“A BRILLIANT PIECE OF MUST-SEE BROADWAY.”
– Chicago Tribune
The most Tony® Award-winning show of 2024. The most Tony® Award-nominated Play of all time. Stereophonic mines the agony and the ecstasy of creation as it zooms in on a music studio in 1976. Here, an up-and-coming rock band recording a new album finds itself suddenly on the cusp of superstardom. The ensuing pressures could spark their breakup — or their breakthrough. Written by David Adjmi, directed by Daniel Aukin, and featuring original music by Arcade Fire’s Will Butler, Stereophonic invites the audience to immerse themselves—with fly-on-the-wall intimacy—in the powderkeg process of a band on the brink of blowing up.
Stereophonic, which features original songs by Academy Award nominee and Grammy® Award winner Will Butler, formerly of Arcade Fire, dominated the “Best Theater of 2023” lists, with top rankings in The New York Times, New York Magazine, The Washington Post, Time Out New York, Town & Country, TheaterMania, Theaterly, and The Spectator. In April 2024, Stereophonic became the most Tony®-nominated play in history receiving 13 Award nominations. It then became the most Tony® Award-winning show of the 2024 season, winning 5 Tony® Awards including Best Play, Direction (Daniel Aukin), Scenic Design (David Zinn), and Sound Design (Ryan Rumery).
Photos by Kristin Gallegos and Julieta Cervantes
Dog Man: The Musical
Adapted from The DOG MAN series of books by Dav Pilkey
Book and Lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila
Music by Brad Alexander
Original Direction & Choreography by Jen Wineman
“A howling good time. This show is perfect for everyone.” —Newsday
A hilarious, heartfelt family adventure! Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of beloved characters from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club. Featuring an exciting book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila, music by Brad Alexander, and original direction and choreography by Jen Wineman.
®DAV PILKEY
Adapted from the books DOG MAN, DOG MAN UNLEASHED, DOG MAN A TALE OF TWO KITTIES, and DOG MAN LORD OF THE FLEAS by Dav Pilkey. Copyright ©2016, 2016, 2017, and 2018 by Dav Pilkey. Published by Graphix, an imprint of Scholastic, Inc.
Photos of 24-25 Touring Company by Jeremy Daniel L-R: Sadie Jayne Kennedy, Glory Yepassis-Zembrou, Brandon James Butorovich, Marquise Neal, Jake Wernecke, Mundo Ballejos
Direct from Rome:The Three Italian Tenors
“Italia Musica Amore”
A Unique Tribute to Italian Song and Aria
A Salute to the Great Italian Tenors tradition
See the Three Italian Tenors in their North American Tour debut! Audiences will be captivated by Giovanni Maria Palmia, Ugo Tarquini, and Alessandro Fantoni accompanied by pianist Fabrizio Mocata. This exhilarating and unique musical event features original arrangements and universally loved Italian songs and tenor arias, presenting memorable melodies and themes performed by the incredible Three Italian Tenors.
Kinky Boots
“SWEETLY, VIVACIOUSLY, IRRESISTIBLY GOOD!” – The Washington Post The boots are back! Kinky Boots will lift your spirits to high-heeled heights! Celebrated with six Tony® Awards, including Best Musical, a Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theatre Album, and London’s Olivier Award for Best Musical, this big-hearted musical hit will have you strutting out of the theater saying “Yeah!”
Kinky Boots captivates and entertains audiences around the world with the dazzling Tony®-winning score by pop legend Cyndi Lauper, hilarious and uplifting book by four-time Tony® Award-winner Harvey Fierstein, and original direction and Tony®-winning choreography by Jerry Mitchell.
Based on true events, Kinky Boots follows the journey of two people with nothing in common—or so they think. Charlie Price reluctantly inherits his father’s shoe factory, which is on the verge of bankruptcy. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save his family business, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola, a fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos. As Charlie and Lola work together to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair finds that they have more in common than they realized…and discover that you change the world when you change your mind.
2019 National Tour of Kinky Boots. Photo credit: Matthew Murphy.
Les Ballets Africains
Dance company Les Ballets Africains was formed in Paris in 1952 by distinguished Guinean choreographer Keita Fodeba. The company quickly established itself as a global phenomenon, touring successfully around the world. In 1958, following Guinea’s independence, Les Ballets Africains was named the national ensemble of Guinea, propelling them to even greater heights of international acclaim.
Throughout their travels, Les Ballets Africains have been hailed as cultural ambassadors, carrying with them the pride and aspirations of their people. Their performances serve a dual purpose: to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Africa and to foster greater understanding and cooperation between Africa and the rest of the world.
Whether enchanting audiences in Sydney, Paris, London, Rio, Berlin, Tokyo, Moscow, New York, Chicago, Shangai, or Los Angeles, Les Ballets Africains has consistently garnered critical acclaim and invitations to return. Their performances transcend mere entertainment, serving as a powerful medium for cultural exchange and diplomacy. Les Ballets Africains’ journey is a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend boundaries and unite people across the globe. Their legacy is one of artistic excellence, cultural pride, and a steadfast commitment to bridging the gap between nations through the universal language of dance.
RENT in Concert
An ensemble of stellar vocalists and instrumentalists comes together to share the iconic music of RENT like never before. This symphonic take on Jonathan Larson’s beloved musical includes the full score of the show, including favorites like “Seasons of Love,” “La Vie Bohème,” and “Take Me or Leave Me.”
Set in the East Village of New York City, Rent is about falling in love, finding your voice, and living for today. Winner of the Tony® Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Rent has become a pop cultural phenomenon with songs that rock and a story that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, Jonathan Larson’s Rent follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. The physical and emotional complications of the disease pervade the lives of Roger, Mimi, Tom, and Angel. Maureen deals with her chronic infidelity through performance art; her partner, Joanne, wonders if their relationship is worth the trouble. Benny has sold out his Bohemian ideals in exchange for a hefty income and is on the outs with his former friends. Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, feels like an outsider to life in general. How these young bohemians negotiate their dreams, loves, and conflicts provides the narrative thread to this groundbreaking musical.
Drum Tao
Drum Tao is an international phenomenon that has reached over nine million spectators featuring the world’s top taiko drummers! Hailed for its high-octane, visionary productions, Drum Tao electrifies the stage with lavish sets, complex choreography, and flawless athletic movement. While honoring the ancient Japanese art form, they embark on an astonishing rhythmic adventure performing incredible feats on a variety of drums (some weighing up to 3 tons) and other instruments including the marimba, flute, and harp that require complete mind and body coordination. You won’t believe your eyes!
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
Join us for an evening of unparalleled artistry and musical mastery with the sensational Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, led by artistic director, trumpeter extraordinaire, and nine-time Grammy® Award-winner Wynton Marsalis as they perform the Duke in Africa program.
Duke Ellington found deep inspiration in Africa, travelling with his orchestra to Dakar, Senegal in 1966 to perform at the first World Festival of Negro Arts. This trip led him to compose several of his most iconic works including Afro-Bossa, Liberian Suite, and the Grammy® Award-winning Togo Brava Suite. Co-music-directed by JLCO saxophonists Chris Lewis and Alexa Tarantino, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis celebrates these compositions and the spirit of Duke’s historic trip, nearly 60 years later.
For more than three decades, Jazz at Lincoln Center has been a leading advocate for jazz, culture, and arts education, dedicated to inspiring and growing jazz audiences worldwide. Under the direction of Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra has brought the art form of jazz from the heart of New York City to cities around the world.
From swinging rhythms to soulful melodies, every performance is a celebration of the spirit of jazz and its enduring influence. The Chicago Tribune describes the exhilarating force of the band in concert: “The orchestra [tore] through this music as if chasing the wind. Only a group of musicians who have toured together for so long…could have attained this kind of synchronicity.”
TUSK: The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Tusk is the number one Tribute to Fleetwood Mac in the world, bar none. No fancy tricks, no gimmicks, just five musicians recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac to perfection with note for note renditions that no other Fleetwood Mac tribute on the touring scene today can come close to duplicating.
Tusk covers all the great hits of Fleetwood Mac, which has featured the talents of Mick Fleetwood, Christine and John McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, Stevie Nicks, and others over the years. Their set lists have included “The Chain, “Gypsy,” “Gold Dust Woman,” “Silver Springs,” and “Got a Hold on Me.” The five seasoned, well-respected musicians comprising Tusk have been making music together in various combinations and styles, in original outfits and in cover bands, for over 25 years. Authentic-sounding and always respectful, Tusk leaves no stone unturned in replicating the sounds of one of the world’s best-loved, top-selling bands.
Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert
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.
American Repertory Ballet with a Live Orchestra & Choir Presents The Nutcracker
Experience the Magic of the Holidays with American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker in New Jersey
December 18, 2025 @ 20:00 – December 21, 2025 @ 23:30
The holiday season in New Jersey comes alive with the return of the American Repertory Ballet’s (ARB) cherished annual performance of The Nutcracker, a celebration of music, dance, and festive wonder that has captivated audiences for six decades. This year, families can experience the only ARB Nutcracker shows featuring a live orchestra and choir, enhancing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score with the richness and energy of live performance. With more than 100 talented dancers bringing the story to life, ARB’s production remains a signature holiday tradition for the region.
Audiences are invited to follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they embark on an unforgettable adventure. The tale unfolds with daring battles against larger-than-life mice, heroic toy soldiers, and a journey through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the enchanting Land of Sweets. Each scene is elevated by ARB’s signature choreography, blending technical precision with expressive artistry, ensuring a performance that captivates both children and adults.
ARB’s The Nutcracker has earned its place as one of the nation’s longest-running productions, maintaining continuity for 60 years while evolving to reflect both classical ballet excellence and modern theatrical flair. The addition of a live orchestra and choir in select performances offers audiences an immersive experience, where the music resonates with unparalleled vitality, complementing the dancers’ intricate movements and the vibrant holiday sets.
This production is not just a performance; it is a holiday event designed to create lasting family memories. Attendees can expect dazzling costumes, elaborate stage design, and an atmosphere that captures the joy and wonder of the season. It is an ideal outing for multigenerational families, schools, and community groups seeking a festive cultural experience in New Jersey.
Tickets to ARB’s Nutcracker performances offer a gateway into a world where imagination, music, and dance intertwine. The combination of high-caliber dancers, live orchestral music, and a story steeped in tradition makes this production a highlight of the holiday season in the region. Families looking to immerse themselves in the magic of ballet, celebrate a long-standing artistic tradition, and enjoy a memorable holiday outing will find ARB’s The Nutcracker an unmissable experience.
For those seeking additional information about show dates, tickets, and seasonal events in New Jersey’s performing arts scene, Explore New Jersey’s theatre section provides comprehensive coverage, spotlighting the state’s premier ballet, theatre, and cultural performances.
This season, let the American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker transport you and your loved ones into a world of holiday enchantment, where classic music, breathtaking dance, and festive storytelling come together to create a timeless celebration of the season.
Kenny G
Selling over 75 million records worldwide, the King of Smooth Jazz, Kenny G, is bringing his Christmas show to STNJ! Kenny G owns the best-selling instrumental record of all time with 1992’s 12-times-platinum Breathless; has the number one Christmas record of all time with 1994’s 8-times platinum Miracles; and his song “Going Home” has, improbably, become the official end-of-work-day anthem in China.
For the last several years, Kenny has taken to the internet with gusto, as new generations of listeners have discovered his music and contemporary hitmakers such as The Weeknd and Jon Batiste have enlisted him for guest appearances on their albums. His posts have become memes and gone viral, as he continues to have fun with the whole idea of being his iconic self.
Engelbert Humperdinck “A Winter World of Love”
Celebrate the season with the unmistakable voice of Engelbert Humperdinck in a special holiday concert that blends his timeless hits with beloved holiday classics. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering him for the first time, this festive evening promises warmth, nostalgia, and musical magic that will make your holidays unforgettable.
In a career spanning over 50 years, Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over 140 million records, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum. He’s earned four Grammy® nominations, a Golden Globe, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame, and Leicester Walk of Fame. He’s performed for royalty—including four appearances before the Queen—as well as for several U.S. presidents and numerous heads of state. From romantic ballads to movie themes, disco, rock, and gospel, his signature voice has captivated audiences around the world.
Humperdinck burst onto the music scene alongside The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. The shy, handsome singer quickly rose to global stardom, even forming a close friendship with Elvis Presley—the two legends often covered each other’s songs. His breakout hit “Release Me” spent 56 consecutive weeks on the charts and topped the charts in 11 countries, earning a place in the Guinness Book of Records. Decades later, he continues to tour internationally to sold-out crowds, taking joy in every performance.
His music has endured across generations, and his voice continues to inspire and connect. Songs like “A Man Without Love,” featured in Marvel’s Moon Knight (Disney+), “Forever Blowing Bubbles” in Bullet Train (Sony Pictures), and “Quando, Quando, Quando” in Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy have introduced him to new fans around the globe.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Humperdinck was appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE), an honor presented by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for 40 years! Grammy® Award-winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects—capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.
About Chip Davis
A visionary musician and businessman, Chip Davis is behind a remarkable body of work now spanning five decades. Since founding Mannheim Steamroller and American Gramaphone Records (AGR) in 1974, Davis has written, arranged, and recorded over 35 albums, highlighted by the RIAA multi-platinum certified Mannheim Steamroller catalog. The best-selling Christmas music artist in history with over 31 million Christmas albums sold, the group celebrates the 40th Anniversary of its annual holiday tour in 2025, making it the longest running tour in the entertainment industry.
Davis has achieved worldwide sales of all album titles in excess of 41 million, with four multi-platinum, eight platinum, and 19 gold certifications in the U.S. alone. Furthermore, Davis is the entrepreneur behind the hugely successful Mannheim Steamroller product line, author of nine children’s books, an amateur astronomer, and dedicated philanthropist.
The man behind Mannheim was born Louis F. Davis, Jr. in the archetypal small town of Hamler, OH (Pop. 500), the son of a family to whom music and “a sensitivity to nature” were integral. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1969 with mastery in bassoon and percussion before taking on a job at the Omaha, NE, ad agency, Bozell & Jacobs. In 1974, Davis and fellow ad exec Bill Fries teamed up to create a fictional truck driver named C.W. McCall for a series of Clio Award-winning commercials. A string of hit albums and top 40 singles followed, including the RIAA gold certified #1 classic, “Convoy.”
The success of C.W. McCall allowed Davis to focus on his own original music. He dubbed his new band Mannheim Steamroller—a play on the 18th-century musical technique known as the “Mannheim crescendo”—and in 1975 recorded Fresh Aire, a landmark work melding elements of classical, rock, and pop into something altogether unique. Foiled by the industry’s inability to classify a genre for the album, Davis decided to distribute and sell Fresh Aire on his own and AGR was born.
Davis employed innovative marketing techniques to spread his “18th Century Classical Rock,” and Fresh Aire eventually found its way onto record store shelves everywhere, fitted with the newly created classification “New Age.” Each consecutive album in the Fresh Aire series earned multi-million album sales, countless fans, and, with Fresh Aire 7, the 1991 Grammy® Award for Best New Age Album.
In 1984, Davis had the idea to reinvigorate traditional carols and Yuletide staples via Mannheim Steamroller’s always-eclectic sonic approach. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas proved a phenomenon, the band’s first to reach the Billboard 200 album chart on its way to six-time RIAA platinum certification. A Fresh Aire Christmas followed in 1988, achieving six-time platinum certification and ultimately surpassing its monumentally successful predecessor to be declared the sixth best-selling holiday album of the SoundScan era.
Further Christmas collections resulted in cumulative Christmas album sales in excess of 31 million. The Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Tour quickly became as much a Yuletide tradition; today two separate groups perform across the country.
Mannheim Steamroller’s An American Christmas, a 12-hour nationally broadcast radio special heard annually on over 450 stations across the U.S.
The steadfastly autonomous AGR label has released works by an array of like-minded artists. For their part, Mannheim Steamroller has observed additional holidays such as Halloween and July Fourth while also exploring inspirations spanning the music of Walt Disney films to the majesty of Yellowstone National Park.
Additionally, Davis is the creator of the patented ambient therapy system, inspired by his own neck surgery in 2004. The system enhances healing by reducing stress, anxiety, and other barriers to recovery, combining musical content and four-channel surround sound algorithms. The ambient therapy system is used in medical facilities such as Minnesota’s Mayo Clinic and The National Intrepid Center for Excellence in Bethesda, MD, which serves wounded warriors.
Davis’ lifelong interest in astronomy has led to an extended relationship with NASA, including several trips to Kennedy Space Center in Cocoa Beach and Johnson Space Center in Houston, where his team recorded space shuttle launches and landings that have been characterized as “the most accurate ever made.”
The indefatigable Davis still travels the country on behalf of AGR but prefers to spend his time on his 150-acre farm outside Omaha. He has three children.
Davis determinedly carries on each day with the original spirit of creative drive and invention that first inspired him. “There wasn’t any business plan when I started American Gramaphone,” he says. “There wasn’t any target I was looking at. It’s always been about just moving forward and doing things I like to do.”
Sarah Brightman:A Winter Symphony
The world’s biggest-selling soprano and legendary Grammy® Award-nominated artist Sarah Brightman returns with her new Christmas spectacle A Winter Symphony tour this November! Accompanied by orchestra, choir, and special guests, this enchanting holiday show will feature Brightman performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. A Winter Symphony is an unforgettable Christmas experience during the most wonderful time of the year!
Enriqueta Somarriba, piano& Maria Brea, soprano
Join us for an immersive musical experience that places you in the heart of the performance. Taking place in our intimate Studio space, The Sound Studio series brings you up close and personal with emerging classical performing artists.
The November concert,Verses in Song—featuring award-winning artists, pianist Enriqueta Somarriba and soprano, Maria Brea—revolves around the theme of music and poetry in four different languages. The program includes Henri Duparc’s L’Invitation Au Voyage and Chanson Triste; Franz Liszt’s Oh! quand je dors; Claude Debussy’s De fleurs and De soir; Florence Price’s Bewilderment; Aaron Copland’s (12 poems of Emily Dickinson): Heart We will Forget Him; Hugo Wolf’s Die Spröde, Die Bekehrte, and Joaquín Turina’s Poema en Forma de Canciones.
About the Artists
Pianist Enriqueta Somarriba thrives in a prolific and versatile international career, as a sought-after performer and music educator, performing regularly as a soloist and chamber musician in venues such as Carnegie Hall; Auditorio Nacional in Madrid; Organization of American States in Washington D.C.; Cervantes Institute of New York; Richardson Auditorium in Princeton; Roulette in Brooklyn; Sala dei Notari in Perugia, Italy; and in music festivals like the Festival de Música y Danza de Granada and Centro Nacional de Difusión Musical in Spain, and the CIBAR Festival in Veracruz, México.
As a soloist, Somarriba has performed with the Orquesta Andrés Segovia, Virtuosi Brunensis Orchestra, Orquesta Fórum Musikae, and Rutgers Symphonic Orchestra. Her performances have been broadcasted on Spanish National Radio, 98.7 WFMT Chicago, Veracruz Television-Radio, and she has recorded for MSR Classics the four-hand piano music by composer Paul Reale in collaboration with The Center for Musical Excellence. Somarriba also recently recorded as a soloist for the soundtrack of the Netflix feature film Dancing on Glass by composer Iván Palomares, which was nominated for the Spanish Film Academy Awards (‘Goyas’) in 2023. As a chamber musician, she performs regularly with members of the Metropolitan Opera and Philadelphia Orchestras.
With the mission to promote Ibero-American music in the U.S., Somarriba has delivered lecture-recitals with emphasis on new music by Spanish and Latin American composers in institutions like Cornell University, Manhattan School of Music, Rutgers University, Georgetown University, University of Michigan, and dozens of K-12 schools. She often includes in her programs music by living composers such as Benet Casablancas, Mercedes Zavala, Tania León, Roberto Sierra, Vijay Iyer, Catalina Mayorga, Teresa Catalán, Ricardo Lorenz, and Virginia Johnston. Somarriba has also dedicated research and efforts in bringing forth music by lesser-known composers who deserve more presence in concert programs, such as Isidro Maiztegui, Valerie Capers, Ruth Crawford-Seeguer, Joaquín NinCulmell, Rosa García-Ascot, Roberto Gerhard, Salvador Bacarisse, George Walker, and Julián Bautista.
A devoted educator, Somarriba currently holds the position of Director of Education at SpeakMusic Conservatory in NJ, where she focuses on developing music programs for a diverse community of students, while being part of the school’s piano faculty since 2015. She is an Official Steinway & Sons Educational Partner and a Board Member of the Piano Teachers Congress of New York.
Somarriba has earned degrees from the Madrid Royal Conservatory (B.M.), Chicago College of Performing Arts (M.M.), Manhattan School of Music (P.S.C.), and Rutgers University (D.M.A.), studying with Fernando Puchol, Solomon Mikowsky, and Min Kwon.
Maria Brea is one of Venezuela’s most acclaimed opera singers. As a youngster, Maria Brea learned folk music from her Cuatro-playing father. Today, the soprano is fast making a name for herself across North America. Carnegie Hall, The Metropolitan Opera (with ABT), Palais Garnier, David Koch Theater, and David Geffen Hall are just some of the prestigious stages the Juilliard grad has graced, where she has stunned audiences with her dazzling range and intoxicatingly lush tones. In the 2024–25 season, Brea debuted with San Jose Opera as the First Lady in Die Zauberflöte and as Ana Maria in Héctor Armienta’s Zorro, with Opera San Jose and Arizona Opera. She will make her debut as Violetta in a concert version of Verdi’s La Traviata in New York City, as Mimì in La Bohème, and a Verdi and Verismo concert with the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra. She ends her 2024-25 season singing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony with the UN Symphony Orchestra in the 80th anniversary celebration of the United Nations in New York City.
Brea has performed Micaëla in Carmen at the Hogfish Festival in Maine, Clomiri in Handel’s Imeneo with Opera Essentia in New York City, and the 415 Baroque Ensemble. She gave a recital at the University of Notre Dame with pianist Dror Baitel and sang a Spanish adaptation of Handel’s Messiah with The Phoenix Symphony under Maestro Tito Muñoz. She returned to the role of Donna Anna with Vero Beach Opera and made her Canadian debut with the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra performing Odaline de la Martínez’s Four Afro-Cuban Poems.
Brea represented Venezuela in Operalia, sang Beethoven’s 9th Symphony with the Tucson Symphony under José Luis Gomez, and performed Messiah at Carnegie Hall with the Oratorio Society of New York under Kent Tritle and with the Indianapolis Symphony. Her symphonic credits include Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 with both the Ann Arbor Symphony and the Boston Philharmonic under Benjamin Zander. She made her debut at the Schubert Club in a premiere by Reinaldo Moya with the Jasper Quartet and appeared in an all-Mozart program with the Amadeus Ensemble. She has sung Lucette in L’arbre Enchanté at the Hogfish Music Festival with Ryan McAdams, was a featured soloist with the American Spiritual Ensemble in New Orleans under Everett McCorvey, and debuted at The Metropolitan Opera in the American Ballet Theatre’s production of Like Water for Chocolate. Other notable performances include Norina in Don Pasquale with Barn Opera and Orff’s Carmina Burana at Carnegie Hall with the Cecilia Chorus of New York under Mark Shapiro.
Brea represented Venezuela in the 2022 Operalia Competition, was a finalist in both the 2022 Paris Opera Competition and 2021 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, and placed sixth in the Tenor Viñas Competition. .
Tyler Henry
Medium Tyler Henry, star of two hit NETFLIX series Live From the Other Side and Life After Death with Tyler Henry, and E! Entertainment’s mega hit television show Hollywood Medium with Tyler Henry, continues his sold-out national Live Show tour across the country. During his life-changing Live Show An Evening of Hope and Healing Tyler explains how he communicates with the other side and gives jaw-dropping Live Audience Readings. Tyler’s incredibly accurate, personal Live Readings of audience members often bring everyone to tears, giving them proof, hope, and understanding that “Our loved ones never really leave us.”
Tyler Henry was born with a unique gift that enables him to help countless people acquire closure, comfort, and proof that consciousness transcends physical death. As an evidence-based medium, his ability to provide detail-oriented specifics has quickly captured the attention of millions, even turning the most ardent skeptics into believers.
Tyler Henry continues to be the most sought-after medium as seen through his readings of celebrities and non-celebrities alike. Tyler is also a best-selling author with his first book, Between Two Worlds–Lessons From The Other Side. His second book, Here and Hereafter, was released in March 2022.
Elf The Musical
Elf The Musical Brings Holiday Magic to State Theatre New Jersey
November 16, 2025 @ 17:30 – 23:30
The magic of the holidays takes center stage in New Brunswick this November as Elf The Musical brings laughter, joy, and a whole lot of Christmas spirit to the State Theatre New Jersey. Based on the beloved holiday film, this musical adaptation has become one of the most anticipated family events of the season, turning the classic story of Buddy the Elf into a full-scale theatrical celebration filled with music, heart, and holiday cheer.
The production, part of a brand-new national tour inspired by the acclaimed 2024 Broadway revival, promises a “sparklejollytwinklejingley” night for audiences of all ages. Performances run from Friday, November 14 through Sunday, November 16, 2025, with multiple showtimes each day to accommodate families eager to make Elf part of their holiday tradition. Tickets start at $52, and with the buzz surrounding this production, they’re expected to go fast.
At its heart, Elf The Musical follows Buddy, a cheerful orphan who accidentally finds himself in Santa’s workshop after crawling into Saint Nick’s sack of toys as a baby. Raised among the elves at the North Pole, Buddy grows up believing he’s one of them—until he discovers the truth: he’s actually human. With Santa’s blessing, Buddy sets off on an unforgettable adventure to New York City to find his birth father and, in the process, helps a city of skeptics rediscover the joy and wonder of Christmas.
The story blends humor, heart, and a message of kindness that resonates far beyond the holidays. With dazzling sets, festive costumes, and show-stopping musical numbers, Elf The Musical captures the infectious spirit of the season, reminding audiences that the true meaning of Christmas isn’t about presents—it’s about love, connection, and believing in something bigger than yourself.
The latest tour has been met with rave reviews for its inventive staging, energetic choreography, and fresh take on the beloved story. Critics have praised the production for balancing nostalgic moments from the film with brand-new songs and comedic twists that make the show feel both familiar and fresh. The show’s writers and creative team have managed to create a production that appeals equally to children experiencing the story for the first time and to adults who grew up quoting the movie’s most iconic lines.
Performances will be held at State Theatre New Jersey, located at 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. Showtimes are as follows:
- Friday, November 14, 2025 – 8:00 PM
- Saturday, November 15, 2025 – 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM
- Sunday, November 16, 2025 – 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM
The production is suitable for audiences of all ages, making it a perfect holiday outing for families, friends, and anyone looking to add a little sparkle to their season. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Elf or discovering the story for the first time, this stage version delivers everything you could want from a Christmas show—music, laughter, magic, and a message that will warm even the grumpiest Grinch’s heart.
New Jersey’s theater scene is thriving this season, and Elf The Musical is just one of the many must-see productions lighting up stages across the Garden State. For more upcoming performances, arts events, and theatre highlights throughout New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey Theatre.
As the snow starts to fall and holiday lights begin to glow, Elf The Musical offers the perfect escape—a feel-good, laugh-out-loud reminder that Christmas spirit is alive and well in New Jersey. So grab your family, put on your favorite holiday sweater, and let Buddy the Elf show you why smiling really is your favorite.
The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show
The whole family is sure to fall in love with the incredible dogs of The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show! The show features a world-class team of dog trainers and their adopted dogs. As seen on America’s Got Talent, Stupid Pet Tricks with Sarah Silverman, and Nickelodeon Unleashed, these incredible pups have gone from Rescues to Rockstars! Almost all of the dogs are adopted from shelters, rescue groups, or found as strays, and they are all individually owned and loved by their trainers as they are family first!
