On February 8, 2026, the Super Bowl stage finally reflected the sound, language, and cultural influence that have dominated global music for more than...

New Jersey’s performing arts scene is heating up as the state enters a busy audition season across theatre, music, and community talent showcases. From classic musicals to youth-focused talent competitions, performers of all ages have multiple opportunities to step into the spotlight in 2026, highlighting the state’s vibrant arts and entertainment ecosystem. Central to the season is Jersey Talent, the beloved community showcase returning to the historic State Theatre New Jersey on Saturday, May 16. Open to performers ages 8 to 25, Jersey Talent offers a safe and supportive environment for youth to display their skills in music, dance, theater, and other performance art. Applicants submit a short audition video online—no longer than two minutes—with a...

By Anran Li originally published: 01/19/2025 It is not every day that you get to watch a movie starting with only close-ups of everything. I suppose that is quite a clever gesture to introduce a manic character without saying the exact words – we get to see through her eyes, enter her mind; we feel her fear. The short film Mad Clean opens strong: a forcefully worded argument in which we only see the seemingly stubborn, and struggling sister unwilling to step out of her excluded apartment cell. We are immediately trapped in this claustrophobic space with the protagonist, Leanne, who so fiercely closed the door against the rest of the world...