Out & About in Bridgewater and Surrounds

Hi Everyone – I’m still trying to figure out how to work out the kinks in my blog uploads. In the meantime, several of you wrote last week saying the blog is useful and one person pointed to another blog that has recently started listing events around the community called Hulafrog (https://hulafrog.com/bridgewater-nj) I’ll add a link with the permalinks on the side of this blog but you may also decide that you want to subscribe.

Meanwhile, for those of you who have been attending my “Fairytale Engineering” Programs at Bridgewater Library this summer, I have started posting pictures at http://carolsimonlevin.blogspot.com/. Take a look if you want to find out what we have been doing. Next Tuesday we are building bridges with The Three Billy Goats Gruff!  (10 a.m. for 3-6 year olds, 11:30 for K-4th graders). Because we have had some registration snafus in switching to a new system, I am not worrying about who is or is not registered, so feel free to attend. More details and a full calendar here – Carol

OUT & ABOUT IN OUR COMMUNITY:

“HEART & SOLE” FOR KIDS MARATHON FUNDRAISING CONCERT @ FARMSTEAD ARTS

Team “Heart and Sole” Team For Kids Marathon Fundraising Concert
a cabaret program that will support fundraising efforts for Team for Kids

WHEN: Saturday, July 22^nd at 4:30 PM
WHERE: Farmstead Arts Center at 450 King George Road in Basking Ridge
TICKETS: $25 at the door or free with proof of donation at https://runwithtfk.org/Donate/Team/251.

The program will feature vocalists Jenna Masi, Annie Schulenburg, and Angela Rose Masi from Basking Ridge, Allison and Nadine Benoit from Allendale, Cranford resident Kelli Bruno, Allison Gibson from Watchung, and pianists Cinder LeDell and Joshua Narsu in the English Barn at the Farmstead Arts Center at 450 King George Road, Basking Ridge, NJ. The program will span several musical genres, including classical, musical theatre, and pop. (TOP: Molly Schulenburg, Annie Schulenburg.RIGHT: Allison Benoit, Jenna Masi. All photos property of Farmstead Arts)

Jenna Masi, Annie Schulenburg, Allison Benoit, Kelli Bruno, and Allison Gibson have performed together for 8 years, starting from when they met at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. They are also members of the New York City-based A Capella group, Street Ready. Annie, Jenna, and Allison are running the New York City Marathon on November 5^th to support Team For Kids, a group that brings free running and fitness programs to students across the country through school-based programs, free youth events, and a collection of digital resources.

Annie Schulenburg will be joined by her former piano teacher, Cinder LeDell of Basking Ridge, who will be playing two of her recent piano compositions.  Another of Cinder's students, Joshua Narsu, also of Basking Ridge, will entertain guests as they arrive, as well as performing during the program. Allison Benoit will be joined by her mother, Nadine Benoit, for a special mother–daughter duet.

The performers will also be joined by Angela Rose Masi, a New Jersey-based actress and private voice teacher based in Basking Ridge. Favorite roles include Eve (Children of Eden), Kate/Lucy(Avenue Q), and Schwarzy (25^th…Spelling Bee).

Further information can be found at www.farmsteadartscenter.org/performances/ or by contacting Operations Manager Kathy Harris at 908-636-7576 or by email: admin@farmsteadarts.org

The barn is wheelchair accessible.  Anyone anticipating the need for additional accessibility services may make a request by sending an e-mail to admin@farmsteadarts.org in advance.

Funds for this event have been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, through the State/County Partnership Local Arts Program Grant administered by The Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission.

FOLK MUSIC ICON TOM CHAPIN TO PERFORM @ THE FOLK PROJECT THIS FRIDAY NIGHT

Tom Chapin

WHEN: Friday, July 21 at 7:30pm
WHERE: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, 21 Normandy Heights Rd, Morristown.
ADMISSION: $10.00 per person at the door. Children 12 and under are free. For further information, call 973-335-9489, or visit www.folkproject.org.
The Folk Project website also offers music samples of Minstrel performers: http://www.folkproject.org/minstrel/minstrel.shtml

Butch Ross opens.

The event is part of The Minstrel Acoustic Concert Series, sponsored by The Folk Project each Friday evening at the Fellowship.

Tom Chapin offers up a mix of story songs, ballads, comedic and political songs, family music, sing alongs, old-time folk classics and a song or two written by his late brother, Harry.  He accompanies himself on acoustic guitar, banjo and autoharp.  In a career that spans five decades, 25 albums and three Grammy awards, the Hudson Valley troubadour has covered an incredible amount of creative ground.  In addition to his work as a recording artist and concert performer, Chapin has acted on Broadway  as well as working extensively in television, radio and films.

The multi-talented performer has maintained two long and productive parallel careers, both as a respected contemporary folk artist and as a pioneer in the field of children's music. Tom’s concerts feature strong, intelligent songwriting with clear, engaging vocals and the intricate, melodic guitar work that has become his trademark. Chapin's infectious song craft, sterling musicianship and personal warmth consistently shine through, whether he's performing on a record or in a concert hall, in front of a symphony orchestra or in an intimate coffeehouse.

Tom is sure to include songs from his brand new CD, “THREADS,” (to be released on July 7, 2017), old favorites, and a new folk anthem, penned by his daughters Abigail and Lily (The Chapin Sisters).

In addition to his musical and media endeavors, Chapin is a tireless advocate on behalf of a variety of charitable organizations.  He is on the Board of Directors of WhyHunger, an organization founded in 1975 by his brother Harry. Tom remains active in a variety of environmental causes, as well as efforts on behalf of music and the arts in our public schools.

Opener Butch Ross made the transition from guitar-playing singer-songwriter to one of the most exciting Appalachian dulcimer players in the country. Along with his own songs and traditional tunes, he also plays other contemporary songs that ought to be totally inappropriate to the dulcimer (e.g., Led Zeppelin, The Beatles) but somehow manage to fit the instrument perfectly in his hands. He presents it all with an irresistible intelligence, charm, and gentle humor. He has become an in-demand performer at folk and dulcimer festivals throughout the US and Europe. 

BRING THE FAMILY TO PLEASANT VALLEY PARK FOR FREE PERFORMANCES OF “JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR” THROUGH JULY 22

Trilogy Repertory Presents

Jesus Christ Superstar

WHEN: July 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22, 8 PM
WHERE: outdoor amphitheater at Pleasant Valley Park, Valley Road (next to the Veterans Hospital at Lyons), Basking Ridge
ADMISSION: Free but donations are gratefully accepted. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. For information, call 908-204-3003.

Trilogy Repertory Company opens another great summer season of Bernards Township’s “Plays in the Park” with Tim Rice’s and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar. The season will continue on July 28, 29, and August 3, 4, 5, with William Shakespeare’s delightful comedy, Twelfth Night.

Jesus Christ Superstar is directed by Jaye Barre with musical direction by Joe Lesky of Somerset and choreography by Mariella Klinger of Highland Park.

The musical tells the story of the last seven days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth (Troy Giel of East Orange) through the perspective of Judas Iscariot (David Seamon of Highland Park).  Told only through song and based loosely on the Gospels, the story also delves into the political upheavals of the day and the interpersonal struggles between Jesus and Judas.  Other main roles include Caiaphas (John Lamb of Randolph), Mary Magdalene (Isabel Pluchino of Far Hills), Herod (Joseph Schmidt of Bedminster), Pontius Pilate (John Wells), Annas (Frank Skokan of Bedminster), and Peter (Owen McKenna of Basking Ridge). [Left: Troy Giel  (Jesus) and David Seamon (Judas)]

Jesus Christ Superstar was conceived for the stage by John O’Horgan, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. The musical opened on Broadway at the Mark Hellinger Theater on October 12, 1971.  It ran for 711 performances and received five Tony award nominations. The show underwent three revivals, plus a filmed version in 1973.  Theatergoers will recognize the hit song “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” sung by Yvonne Elliman, as well as “Everything’s Alright,” and “Superstar.”

The production team for the musical also includes Basking Ridge residents Lorrie Lane (Executive Producer), Erin Taylor and Marilyn Gamba (Stage Manager/Assistant), and Beverly Webb (Set Decoration and Costumes) The cast also includes the following:  Karen Breslow, Emily Certisimo, Zoe Considine, Katie Cozzi, Laura DeFelice, Anchal Dhir, Julia Drahzal, Kyle Gelatka, Suchir Govindarajan, Allison Hewitt, Jack Hillebrecht, Caitlin Iannella, Jessica Idell, Francesca Infante-Meehan, Melissa Johnson, Eleanor Klinger, Mariella Klinger, Emmalee Lafean, Patty Lafean, Virginia Lafean, John C. Lubarsky, Angela Masi, Germaine McGrath, Caroline McKenna, Hannah Mellilo, Jack Mellilo, Jack Pachetti, Chuck Pisano, Catherine Pluchino, Nicholas Re, Angela Ricci, Kristen Sands, Micaela Sands, Rosellen Schussler, William Shelton, Amy Six, Hayden Verbanas Robin Verma, and Ria Wolff.

The partnership of Trilogy Repertory and Bernards Township has produced over three decades of family entertainment and achieved several awards for both groups for excellence in theater programming.  Most prominent are the awards from ACT (Achievement in Community Theater) and the prestigious “Excellence in Cultural Arts Programming.”  “Jesus Christ Superstar” is made possible, in part, by support from New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and is presented through special arrangement with R & H Theatricals.

 

KIDS’ MUSIC SUPERSTAR SOARS @ QUICKCHEK NJ FESTIVAL OF BALLOONING ON JULY 28

Laurie Berkner’s Greatest Hits Solo Tour

WHEN: 1:30 p.m., Friday, July 28, 2017. Festival gates open at 1:00 p.m.
WHERE: The QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, Solberg Airport, 39 Thor Solberg Road, Whitehouse Station (Readington Township), NJ.
TICKETS: $25, $35, $45, plus applicable fees. Super Premium tickets $75*, plus applicable fees. A limited number of $75 Super Premium tickets are available.

*Super Premium tickets include preferred seating, after-show Meet & Greet, photo opportunity, and a personalized, autographed picture of the Laurie Berkner Band from Laurie.

TO PURCHASE TICKETS: Visit the Ticketfly website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 973-882-5464 or visit the QuickCheck New Jersey Festival of Ballooning website.

PLEASE NOTE: Children 1 and under may sit on a parent/guardian's lap. Children 2 and older will need a ticket to sit in the reserved seating area. Ticket prices are the same for adults and children.

Concert ticket INCLUDES general admission to the festival (up to a $35 value) and a reserved concert seat for Laurie Berkner’s performance.

Due to space restrictions, this concert does not include access to the VIP Blue Sky Club or VIP Parking.

Concert seats are assigned on a first come, first served basis. Seats will be assigned when orders are placed. The last day to purchase tickets online and have them mailed is Friday, July 21st. Tickets purchased after July 21st will be held at the Will Call booth.

The QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning is the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America. This concert, presented by Hackensack Meridian Health, marks the first time the Festival has offered a performance geared to young children and their families.

A pioneer in children's music over the last twenty years, the legendary Laurie Berkner will bring such well-loved hits as "Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz)," "Victor Vito," "We Are The Dinosaurs," and "Pig on Her Head" to this performance, along with songs like "Bicycle," "Bubbles," and "I've Got So Much To Give" from her new album, Superhero. Laurie will showcase many fan favorites, including an array of tunes that encourage kids and grownups alike to get up and dance. Kids should plan to bring their dancing shoes and a stuffed animal (for their heads).

At her solo shows, in addition to familiar hits, Laurie Berkner performs songs that don't always fit with a full-band performance: tunes with simpler arrangements, hand motions, and a cappella singing, like "Bottle Caps," "One Seed," "Telephone," and "Drive My Car."

To give everyone a chance to catch their breath between high-energy moments, the show will include quieter interludes, with songs such as Laurie's classic "Moon Moon Moon."

Laurie says, "I have been looking forward to performing at this festival for months. I can't wait to see all the balloons taking off - I know it will be spectacular! (I really hope I can see them from the stage!) I feel so lucky that I was invited to play at such an exciting venue, and that I'll have Kira Willey there singing a few songs with me. It's going to be a great show!"

“We are thrilled to begin celebrating our 35th anniversary with our first ever concert geared for our youngest balloonatics,” notes Festival Executive Producer Howard Freeman. “While we have added the top rising Disney teen sensations into our concert series over the past few years for teens and tweens, Laurie Berkner will be our first Kids’ Concert for children ages 2-8.”

Dubbed "one of children's music's biggest success stories" by USA Today, Laurie Berkner's original songs, albums, DVDs, music videos, and books leave no doubt: Laurie is the uncrowned queen of children's music and the power behind the progressive "kindie rock" movement.

Laurie Berkner was the first artist to ever appear in music videos on Nick Jr. and was featured in nearly all the episodes of the channel's Jack's Big Music Show.

Thanks to Ruth Ross and http://www.njartsmaven.com for some of these listings.

What’s up this Weekend in Bridgewater & Surrounds

Quick note from Carol – I’m still trying to deal with blog difficulties and may have to reformat this blog to get it to work properly. Before I go to the trouble, I wanted to see how many people are actually using it!  If you find this round-up of activities at Bridgewater Library (July’s were posted here: http://bwlibys.blogspot.com/2017/06/summer-reading-challenge-has-begun.html) and the listings from around the community useful, please leave a comment at the bottom of the blog or email me at cslevin59 (at) gmail.  Let me know if you want me to continue posting about the library, community events, and articles of interest to families and whether you use the  “Useful Links for Families” permalinks on the web page for the blog at  bwlibys.blogspot.com. Thanks!

 

The Top Ten Events in Somerset County, NJ This Weekend

July 13-16, 2017

Make it a weekend with these great Somerset County Events!

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1. U.S. Women's Open, Trump National
2. Starlit Cinema Opening Night, Downtown Somerville
3. Park Commission Summer Concert Series: Darlene Love, Duke Island Park
4. 18th Annual Garden Party, Colonial Park Gardens
5. Middlebrook Symposium, Heritage Trail Association
6. The Worlds Beyond/Countdown to the Eclipse, RVCC Planetarium
7. Boz Scaggs, State Theatre New Jersey
8. Festival of Nature, Wagner Farm Arboretum
9. Plays in the Park: Jesus Christ Superstar, Pleasant Valley Park
10. Bound Brook Food Truck Festival, Billian Park

Check out our full calendar of events!

FREE CHROMADEPTH 3-D WORKSHOP FOR ADULTS, TEENS @ FARMSTEAD ARTS THIS FRIDAY

ChromaDepth 3-D Workshop

WHEN: Friday, July 14^th from 1:00-3:00 pm
WHERE: the English Barn, Farmstead Arts, 450 King George Road in Basking Ridge
FEE: Registration is free with payment of a $10 materials fee
For questions, please call Kathy Harris, Operations Manager, at 908-636-7576 or send an email to admin@farmsteadarts.org.
Information and registration/materials fee are available at www.farmsteadarts.eventbrite.com.

This fun workshop for teens and adults will take your 2-D work from flat to fabulous as objects appear to float off the page! The combination of Chroma-Depth 3-D technology, art, science and a dash of color theory will create thrilling effects.

The workshop will be taught by artist Larissa Danowitz, who lives and works in South Jersey and is known for her large scale murals painted both as private commissions and for the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program. An advocate for community art, Ms. Danowitz teaches high school art classes, workshops and lectures on collaborative mural projects and their impact on communities and schools. Her collection of works include over 30 murals and her career has been influenced by mentor Meg Saligman who was named as “one of the ten most influential American muralists of the past decade” by Public Art Review.

The barn is wheelchair accessible. Anyone anticipating the need for additional accessibility services is requested to make a request by sending an e-mail in advance to admin@farmsteadarts.org.

Funds for these events have been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, through the State/County Partnership Local Arts Program Grant administered by The Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission.

“WEST SIDE STORY” TO BE PERFORMED IN RED BANK FOR 2 WEEKENDS!

Phoenix Productions presents

West Side Story

WHEN: beginning July 14th for a two-weekend run  concluding on July 23rd. Friday and Saturday night performances begin at 8pm, and Sunday matinee performances begin at 3pm.
WHERE: Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank
TICKETS: $22 – $32
Tickets are available at the Count Basie Theatre Box Office and can be purchased in person at 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, N.J, by phone at 732-842-9000, or online at www.countbasietheatre.org.

From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. The book and score is written by Arthur Laurents, Stephen Sondheim, and Leonard Bernstein widely regarded as one of the best ever written, with original concept and choreography by the world-renowned Jerome Robbins (who can forget the finger snapping of the street gangs).

Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is transported to 1950s New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs. The "American" Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice in a musical considered one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and continually relevant musical dramas of our time. Timeless songs such as “Tonight,” “Maria,” “Americ,” and “Somewhere” composed by Leonard Bernstein, together with the haunting and deeply moving story, make this a classic masterpiece. To this day, West Side Story is the undisputed Number 1 of American musical theatre: daring, realistic and as relevant as it was on the day of its premiere.

Featured in the cast are the star-crossed lovers Mason Kugelman and Christa Dalmazio (above) as Tony and Maria. Chris Lorenc appears as Riff, Tony’s best friend and the feisty leader of the Jets, while Matthew Giove appears as Bernardo, the proud leader of the Sharks. Alicia Dishon plays Anita, the fiery, bold and intelligent girlfriend of Bernardo and mentor to Maria.

Phoenix’s revival brings this classic story to life on the Count Basie stage, with sets, costumes, and a live orchestra.

Phoenix Productions is a Red Bank based non-profit community theatre organization that has produced more than a hundred full-scale revivals of Broadway musicals since 1988. For more information on Phoenix Productions or upcoming shows, please visit www.phoenixredbank.com.

TAKE A WALKING TOUR IN MORRISTOWN THIS SUMMER!

Historical Tours and Programs
Summer 2017

Book Early to Reserve Your Space

The Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB) welcomes you to join us again for our annual walking tour and lecture series.  Experience the rich history that Morris County has to offer with a knowledgeable guide.  Summer programs will be held on five successive Saturday mornings during July and August.

The Seeing Eye Walking Tour
WHEN: Saturday, July 15, at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Tour begins at 14 Maple Avenue, Morristown.  Parking is available in the DeHart garage and there is metered parking on adjoining side streets.
TICKETS: $15.00. Please pre-register and pre-pay online at morristourism.org. For additional information, or to pre-register, call 973-631-5151.

North America’s first guide dog training school, The Seeing Eye© of Morris Township, was founded in 1929 by Morris Frank.  During this tour you’ll learn about the history of The Seeing Eye, walk the streets of Morristown where the dogs train, and see how Seeing Eye dogs respond to their owners.  The tour begins at their in-town training center, passes sites important to the history of the organization, and concludes at the statue of Morris Frank and his dog, Buddy for a photo op.

Husband and wife, Jim and Ginger Kutsch, lead this unique tour. Jim serves as the president and CEO of The Seeing Eye; Ginger is a volunteer with the organization. Both are graduates of The Seeing Eye.

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SUMMER SHOWS FOR KIDS, FAMILY @ THE SUMMIT PLAYHOUSE

101 Dalmatians, Kids

WHEN: July 21 - July 29
WHERE: Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Ave., Summit

Based on the classic animated film, Disney's 101 Dalmatians KIDS is a fur-raising adventure featuring Cruella De Vil, Disney's most outrageous villain, and some of the most adorable heroes to set their paws onstage. With a high-spirited score and lovable characters, this 30-minute stage adaptation is certain to charm and delight all audiences.

Click HERE for tickets

Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

WHEN: August 3-6
WHERE: Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Ave., Summit

Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust: A Collection of Disney Songs is an exciting new production featuring our teenage and young adult performers. Come enjoy some of your favorite Disney songs with lots of laughter and fun for both children and adults along the way!

Click HERE for tickets.

Cinderella

WHEN: August 9-13
WHERE: Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Ave., Summit

The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. As adapted for the stage, with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, the hearts of children and adults alike still soar when the slipper fits. We are thrilled to be presenting a pilot production of a brand new 60 minute adaptation of this beloved title!

Click HERE for tickets! CLICK

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TRILOGY REP PRESENTS FREE THEATRE UNDER THE STARS THIS SUMMER

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GRUNGE “ROMEO & JULIET” TO TOUR LOCAL PARKS, LIBRARIES

Love in the Time of Grunge
"These violent delights have violent ends, which as they kiss, consume"

The Hudson Shakespeare Company returns for the final installment in its 26th annual “Shakespeare in the Parks” tour of Northern New Jersey parks and libraries with a 1990s inspired Romeo and Juliet. [Above: Romeo (Josh Blount) and Juliet (Mackenzie Menter)]

ADMISSION: free to all shows. A lawn chair and blanket are recommended for all outdoor showings.

WHEN & WHERE: The show will be touring to the following locations:

• Tuesday, July 11th @ 7pm
  Kenilworth Public Library, 548 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ 07033
• Wednesday, July 12th @ 7pm
  Buchmuller Park – Corner of Plaza Center and Third Avenue (Rain Location) Secaucus Public Library, 1379 Paterson Plank Rd, Secaucus, NJ 07094
• Saturday, July 15th @ 3pm
  Van Vorst Park (Rain Location Park Gazebo), Montgomery Street and Jersey Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07302
• Monday, July 17th @ 7pm
  522 Frank Sinatra Park, Frank Sinatra Park, Hoboken, NJ
• Tuesday July 18th @ 7:30pm
  Fort Lee Monument Park, Palisade Ave & Angioletti Pl, Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Rain Location – Fort Lee Library, 320 Main Street, Fort Lee, NJ
• Thursday, July 20th @ 7pm
  Hamilton Park (9th st and Jersey Avenue) (Rain Location Park Gazebo) Jersey City, NJ 07302
• Saturday, July 22nd @ 5pm
  Long Pond Iron Works State Park, 1334 Greenwood Lake Turnpike, NJ (Rain Location Long Pond Visitor’s Center)
• Tuesday, July 25th @ 7:30pm
  Fort Lee Monument Park, Palisade Ave & Angioletti Pl, Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Rain Location – Fort Lee Library, 320 Main Street, Fort Lee, NJ
• Wednesday, July 26th @ 7:30pm
  Atlantic Street Park, 101 State Street, Hackensack NJ, Rain Location – Hackensack Cultural Arts Center
• Thursday, July 27th @ 6:30pm
  Hoboken Public Library, 500 Park Ave, Hoboken, NJ 07030
• Saturday July 29th @ 2pm
  Stratford Library Amphitheater, 2203 Main St, Stratford, CT 06615 (Rain Location Inside the Library’s Lovell Room)
• Tuesday, August 1st @ 7:30pm
  Fort Lee Monument Park, Palisade Ave & Angioletti Pl, Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Rain Location – Fort Lee Library, 320 Main Street, Fort Lee, NJ
• Wednesday, August 2nd @ 7:30pm
  Atlantic Street Park, 101 State Street, Hackensack NJ. Rain Location – Hackensack Cultural Arts Center
• Thursday, August 3rd @ 7pm
  Somerset County Public Library – Bridgewater, 1 Vogt Dr, Bridgewater, NJ 08807

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare is the most famous love story in the English language and has been adapted in a variety of settings from a straight Elizabethan presentation with Franco Zefferelli to a musical romp in West Side Story. It’s a story that most people think they know quite well, a story of ideal young love and perfectly matched lovers whose love is denied by their warring families and which leads to their tragic ends. However, the innocent pair of Romeo and Juliet are just the tip of the iceberg in a world filled with scheming, opportunistic parents; violent, self-destructive rebels and the true parental figures who try to keep the couple out of harm’s way. [Right: The Grungy Montagues, Mercutio, Romeo (Josh Blount), and Benvolio (Lindsay Milligan)]

In looking for a fresh interpretation of a well-known story. Director Noelle Fair wanted to look beyond a production that just focused on the lovers or their warring families and examine what drives the unstoppable hatred and violence that happens in the play. What can it say about how we treat each other today where fights can spark online or in public for little to no reason?

Director Fair wondered, “How are Romeo and Juliet meant to survive in this world where everything, everyone, and all the odds are against them?” Where it is not just a single misunderstanding or event that spurs the action but a cycle of violence that seems to have no end or beginning.

“We are passing down violence which stems from hatred and a lack of empathy from one generation to the next and its what we are leaving and teaching future generations”, said Fair.

In Shakespeare’s play no reason is given for the feud between the Capulets and Montagues. Despite the fact it has lasted for generations, the characters themselves cannot give the audience a straight answer to the question of why they are fighting. This can be a direct parallel to today’s raging political and societal conversations where one side automatically will demonize the other and argue to the point of killing, often for no sane reason.

To match the play’s cycle of hatred and how little things change from one generation to the next Fair decided to set her show in the 1990s.

“The same things we encountered in the 90's we are still dealing with today. Issues of race, gender, and sexual equality, women's rights, disability rights, refugee crisis and islamophobia were all things we encountered in those 10 years,” she said.

To set the era, the Montagues have been reimagined as grungy street kids, and Capulets as the upper class, rich elite.

Period music plays a huge role in the production from artists such as Kirk Cobain, Tupac and Biggie Smalls punctuating many of show’s scenes of brawls and violence to dance crazes such as the Macarena underscoring some of the play’s lighter moments.

“This era is marked by rebellion, teenage restlessness, and fits perfectly with this world,” Fair said.

For more information on the show, please visit www.hudsonshakespeare.comor call 973 449-7443.

HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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SUMMER WONDER CAMP NOW OFFERING EXTENDED CARE

Summer Wonder Camp

The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is now offering an extended care option for its Summer Wonder Camp. Campers may stay until 5pm for a special rate of $50/week or $15/day. Call the Art Center at (908) 273-9121 or stop by in person to reserve a spot for your child today. For your convenience, early drop-off is also available from 8:30-10am for $100/week.

Summer Wonder Camp is open to children (5-12) and teens (13-16) and runs in weekly sessions from July 10 to August 31. Guided by professional art educators, campers explore weekly themes by creating art projects using a variety of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Camp runs Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm. Register by phone at (908) 273-9121, online at www.artcenternj.org, or in person. The following weeks are currently available:

· July 10 - July 14: Build It! Building & Taking Apart in Art

· July 17 - July 21: Light It Up! Light & Shadow in Art

· July 24 - July 28: Fill It Up! Flat to Full in Art

· July 31 - August 4: Stay Balanced (or Not)! Balance and Imbalance in Art

· August 7 - August 11: Make It! Soft and Hard Materials in Art

· August 14 - August 18: MOVE! Motion and Stillness in Art

· August 21 - August 25: Shake It Up! Pattern & Disorder in Art

· August 28 - August 31: Bend, Stretch, Pull! Proportion & Distortion in Art

The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is located at 68 Elm Street in Summit, New Jersey.  Visit www.artcenternj.org for more information. Gallery Hours: Monday to Wednesday and Friday: 10 AM to 5 PM; Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM; and Saturday & Sunday 11 AM to 4 PM. Please call 908-273-9121 to confirm holiday hours.

Support
Major support for the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is provided by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the Walter V. and Judith L. Shipley Family Foundation, the Wilf Family Foundations, and Art Center members and donors.

About the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey
For more than 80 years, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey has been exclusively dedicated to viewing, making, and learning about contemporary art. Recognized as a leading non-profit arts organization, the Art Center’s renowned studio school, acclaimed exhibitions, and educational outreach initiatives serve thousands of youth, families, seniors, and people with special needs every year.

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SEE WHAT’S COMING UP @ MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM!

WHERE: Montclair Art Museum, 3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair Family Fun Join us for Family Art Adventure as we explore our galleries. Our kid-centered tour will lead us to the studio, for a project inspired by the collection. WHEN: Saturday, July 15, 2–2:30 p.m. REGISTER for Family Art Adventure

Docent-led Tour Experience MAM's collection like never before with a docent led tour. Included with museum admission, FREE for members. WHEN: Public Tour, July 16, 2–3 p.m. LEARN MORE about MAM's Public Tour

SummerART Openings It's not to late to sign up your young artist up for SummerART. The remaining sessions of MAM's award winning visual arts camp have limited openings (Like our Session III studio art camps!) HURRY! Space is limited–register today! Keep your eyes on MAM's calendar for a full list of programs, workshops, and special events! VIEW MAM's full calendar LEARN + CREATE: The Postcard as Art WHEN: Sunday, July 16, 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. REGISTER SummerART Session II Closing Reception WHEN: Friday, July 21, 4:30–5:30 p.m. MORE

SUMMER HAS ARRIVED: JULY FUN @ THE RVCC PLANETARIUM

Countdown to the Solar Eclipse

Prepare for the Great American Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017!  Most of our astronomy shows will include a 5-minute presentation about what a solar eclipse is and how to view it safely.  New Jersey will see about 75% of the Sun covered by the Moon.

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Tuesdays in July

Magic Tree House: Space Mission & Countdown to the Eclipse

July 25 at 2:30 p.m

The Little Star that Could & Countdown to the Eclipse

July 18 at 2:30 p.m

Laser Pop Rock

July 11, 18, 25 at 3:30 p.m

Earth, Moon, Sun & Coyote & Countdown to the Eclipse

July 11, 18, & 25 at 4:30 p.m

(Visit our website for descriptions of shows & recommended ages)

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Thursdays in July

Space Shapes & Tycho to the Moon

July 20 & 27 at 2:30 p.m.

 

 

Laser Kids  July 20 & 27 at 3:30 p.m.

(Visit our website for descriptions of shows & age recommendations)

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Fridays in July

Kids Shows

Laser Kids

July 14 at 6 p.m.

Magic Tree House: Space Mission & Countdown to the Eclipse

July 14 at 7 p.m.

Adult Astronomy Shows

Countdown to the Eclipse & To Worlds Beyond

July 14 & 21 at 8 p.m.

Adult Laser Shows

Laser Grateful Dead

July 21 at 9 p.m.

Best of Pink Floyd

July 14 at 9 p.m.

(Visit our website for descriptions of shows & age recommendations)

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Special Shows This July

Christmas in July

Friday, July 21

The Alien Who Stole Christmas

6:00 pm

Winter Wonder Lights

7:00 pm

(Visit our website for full details and age recommendations

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Happy Birthday Harry Potter

Friday, July 28

The Skies Over Hogwarts

7 & 8 pm

Fright Light laser concert

6 & 9 pm

(Visit our website for full details and age recommendations)

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Observatory

Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory will be open to the public on Friday evenings from sunset to about 10:15 p.m.

 

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Tools 4 School

RVCC and Hunterdon County United Way are partnering to provide basic school supplies to K-12 students in need.

During July and August, Planetarium visitors who bring a donation will receive a
$2 discount on admission tickets.  (One discount per ticket)

Item suggestions: packages of pens, pencils, highlighters, dry erase markers, composition books, filler paper, folders, glue sticks, pencils sharpeners, Post-It Note pads, pencil case.

Thank you!

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What's up in the Sky?

Evening Planets: Jupiter starts the month high in the southwest sky. By the month's end, the giant planet is low in the west-southwest. The crescent Moon is above

Jupiter on July 28. Try to spot Jupiter during the daytime that day! Look with binoculars for the crescent moon before sunset, and then look below the moon for Jupiter.

Saturn starts July in the southwest and moves toward the south by month's end.

Look for Mercury very low in the west-northwest during July's first week. Use binoculars! Mercury reaches it longest elongation east of the Sun on July 30. This evening apparition of Mercury favors the southern hemisphere. Watch Mercuryconverge on the star Regulus.

Morning Planets: Venus dominates the morning sky. Venus rises two and a half hours before sunrise on July 1 and three hours before sunrise on July 31. With the waning crescent Moon below Venus on July 20, it would be a good day to try and find Venus during daylight hours. Look for the Moon in he sky and then scan above the Moon for Venus.

Prepare for the Great American Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017!  Most of our astronomy shows will include a 5-minute presentation about what a solar eclipse is and how to view it safely.  New Jersey will see about 75% of the Sun covered by the Moon.

First Quarter Moon: July 1

Full Moon: July 9

Last Quarter Moon: July 16

New Moon: July 23

WHERE: Planetarium at Raritan Valley Community College, 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg
908-231-8805
planet@raritanval.edu
www.raritanval.edu/planetarium

Thanks to Ruth Ross at njartsmaven.com for many of these listings!

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It would not be summer without music in the park! Bring lawn chairs and picnic baskets and enjoy a variety of musical performances in Duke Island Park in Bridgewater. For further information on the concerts, please call 908 722-1200. Individuals with hearing/speech impairments may call the Relay Service at 711. Over the weekends, in case of threat of inclement weather please call 908 722-1200 ext. 7. We also post weather updates on Twitter and Facebook. This concert series is made possible by the generous donations from Magic 98.3 WMGQ, The Courier News, and New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Funding has been made possible, in part, by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State through funds administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission through the State/County Partnership Local Arts Program Grant.

JULY 16
DARLENE LOVE
7pmpm - 8:30pm

Since the early 60’s, when Darlene Love was discovered by Phil Spector, she has done it all.  She began by singing backup for artists such as Tom Jones, The Righteous Brothers, Dionne Warwick, Marvin Gaye, and Elvis Presley. Her own Billboard hits include: He’s A Rebel, The Boy I’m Gonna Marry, Wait ‘Til My Bobby Gets Home, and the #1 holiday classic Christmas Baby Please Come Home, a song that she has performed annually with Paul Shaffer and the CBS Symphony Orchestra on The Late Show for 30 years.  Darlene has also appeared in major motion pictures including the Lethal Weapon series and has appeared in the Broadway hits Hairspray and Grease. In 2011, Darlene Love was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, by her friend and fellow icon Better Midler. Rolling Stone Magazine proclaimed Darlene Love to be “one of the greatest singers of all time”.

JULY 23
BOY BAND PROJECT
7pm - 8:30pm

The Boy Band Project is a creative boy band cover group that expertly reimagines the sound, movements, and energy of the American and British groups that were so popular during the 90’s and the next generation. They feature the popular top 40 hit music of groups such as NSYC, the Backstreet Boys, Hanson, One Direction, Boys II Men, and O-Town.  Bring the family, and introduce them as well to a generation of songs to which everyone sang along!  Guaranteed to make you want to get up and dance!

JULY 30
BLUES FEST AT DUKE ISLAND PARK FEATURING BOB LANZA BLUES BAND
5:30PM- 6:30PM

According to singer, songwriter, and guitarist Bob Lanza, there is only one way to play the blues……”From the heart with ferocity as if your life depends on it”.  The Bob Lanza Blues Band is no stranger to music, having played for years with Floyd Phillips and the Mudflaps, and also backing legends such as James Cotton. This band will definitely get the blues party started!

THE TYRONE STACKHOUSE GROUP
7pm - 8:30pm

Tyrone Stackhouse lives in Somerset County, but he plays Motown like he was born and raised in Detroit!  He and the band play the hits of the 60’s and 70’s, and also embrace R&B, soul, jazz, and the blues into their eclectic sound.  It’s a smooth sound that’s a perfect ending to a hot summer weekend night.  

AUGUST 6
3RD ANNUAL FOOD TRUCK FEST FEATURING
THE DUPREES 
7pm - 8:30pm

Bring your appetite – for great food and music!  A variety of food trucks selling a range of culinary delights will be on hand beginning at 6pm to start the festivities.  Then the music begins at 7pm. The Duprees are known world-over for their romantic interpretations of some of the most beautiful love songs ever written.  Hailing from New Jersey, in 1962, The Duprees struck gold with You Belong to Me.  Their unmistakable sound was born, and the hits kept rolling, including Have You Heard, My Own True Love, and Goodnight My Love.  The Duprees have never slowed down, still touring and recording after more than 50 years!

THE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES IS SPONSORED BY

FUNDING HAS BEEN MADE POSSIBLE, IN PART, BY A GRANT FROM THE NEW JERSEY STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS/DEPARTMENT OF STATE THROUGH FUNDS ADMINISTERED BY THE SOMERSET COUNTY CULTURAL & HERITAGE COMMISSION THROUGH THE STATE/COUNTY PARTNERSHIP LOCAL ARTS PROGRAM GRANT.