From theatrical performances to musical honors and visual art showcases, there’s something for every art enthusiast to enjoy. Here’s a curated guide to the top 15 arts events happening across the Garden State:
🎭 Theater & Performing Arts
1. The Shark Is Broken – George Street Playhouse, New Brunswick
Dive into the behind-the-scenes chaos of the making of Jaws with this Olivier Award-nominated play. Experience the tensions and humor among the cast as they navigate a malfunctioning shark and their own egos. Running from April 29 to May 18, 2025, this production promises a hilarious and insightful look into Hollywood history. BroadwayWorld+2The Shark Is Broken+2George Street Playhouse+2George Street PlayhouseBroadwayWorld+1George Street Playhouse+1
2. An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma – McCarter Theatre, Princeton
Join the world-renowned cellist for an intimate evening of conversation and music, moderated by PBS NewsHour’s Jeffrey Brown. On April 26, 2025, Yo-Yo Ma will share personal anecdotes and perform selections that highlight the power of culture to foster understanding and connection. McCarter
🎶 Music & Honors
3. American Music Honors – Pollak Theatre, Monmouth University
Celebrate the legacy of American music at this prestigious event on April 26, 2025. Honorees include Smokey Robinson, John Fogerty, Emmylou Harris, Tom Morello, and Joe Ely. The evening will feature performances and presentations by luminaries such as Bruce Springsteen, Nils Lofgren, and Patti Scialfa, with Brian Williams hosting. NJArts.net+2McCarter+2BSACAM+2BSACAM+1NJArts.net+1
4. Rod Picott – Grand Retirement Tour – Jersey Shore Arts Center, Ocean Grove
On April 26, 2025, singer-songwriter Rod Picott brings his “Grand Retirement Tour” to New Jersey. Known for his heartfelt storytelling and Americana sound, Picott’s performance at the Jersey Shore Arts Center is a must-see for fans of authentic folk music. rodpicott.com
🎨 Visual Arts & Festivals
5. Garden State Art Weekend – Statewide
From April 19 to 21, 2024, New Jersey’s art scene comes alive with the inaugural Garden State Art Weekend. Featuring over 100 artists and venues across 15 counties, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse artistic expressions found throughout the state. GSAW
🎷 Jazz & Classical Music
6. Christian McBride & Bill Charlap – New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark
Experience an unforgettable evening of jazz as bassist Christian McBride and pianist Bill Charlap take the stage at NJPAC. Their collaboration promises a blend of virtuosity and emotional depth, showcasing the rich traditions of American jazz.New York Post
🖼️ Art Exhibitions & Installations
7. “One Last Moment Under the Sky” by HoTTea – Various Locations
Artist HoTTea presents a series of public art installations across New Jersey, inviting viewers to engage with large-scale yarn sculptures that transform public spaces into vibrant works of art. These installations aim to foster community interaction and appreciation for public art.GSAW
🎤 Spoken Word & Literary Events
8. Poetry Reading by Local Authors – Montclair Public Library
Join local poets for an evening of readings and discussions at the Montclair Public Library. This event provides a platform for emerging voices in the literary community and offers attendees a chance to connect with the state’s rich literary heritage.
🎬 Film & Media Arts
9. New Jersey Film Festival – Rutgers University, New Brunswick
Celebrate independent cinema at the New Jersey Film Festival, showcasing a diverse selection of short and feature films from local and international filmmakers. The festival provides a platform for emerging talent and offers audiences a glimpse into innovative storytelling.
🎻 Classical Music Concerts
10. Princeton Symphony Orchestra Spring Concert – Richardson Auditorium
Enjoy an evening of classical masterpieces performed by the Princeton Symphony Orchestra. Under the baton of renowned conductor, the orchestra will present a program featuring works by Beethoven and Brahms, highlighting the depth and beauty of classical music.
🎨 Art Walks & Gallery Tours
11. Asbury Park Art Walk – Downtown Asbury Park
Explore the vibrant art scene of Asbury Park during the monthly Art Walk. Stroll through downtown galleries, meet local artists, and enjoy live music and refreshments as you discover the creative spirit of this coastal community.
🎭 Community Theater Productions
12. “The Importance of Being Earnest” – The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey
Experience Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy of manners in a new production by The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. This witty and satirical play explores themes of identity and social expectations, offering both humor and insight.McCarter+8BroadwayWorld+8NJArts.net+8
🎶 Indie Music Showcase
13. New Jersey Indie Music Festival – Hoboken Arts & Music Festival
Discover the best of New Jersey’s indie music scene at the Hoboken Arts & Music Festival. Featuring performances by local bands and solo artists, this free event celebrates the state’s diverse musical talent.
🎨 Art Exhibitions
14. “Reflections of Nature” – Montclair Art Museum
Explore the beauty of the natural world through the eyes of contemporary artists in this exhibition at the Montclair Art Museum. Featuring a range of media, the show offers a thoughtful meditation on humanity’s relationship with nature.
🎭 Family-Friendly Theater
15. “Alice in Wonderland” – Paper Mill Playhouse, Millburn
Bring the whole family to Paper Mill Playhouse for a magical production of Alice in Wonderland. This imaginative adaptation brings Lewis Carroll’s beloved characters to life, offering a whimsical experience for audiences of all ages.
Sources