Archive for September, 2009

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Multiple One-Man Shows featured in 2009-2010 at the State Theatre

September 17, 2009

This season at the State Theatre we have quite a few one-person performances, 4 to be exact (not including stand-up comedians). There is no rhyme or reason to it, it’s really just a coincidence. In fact, it’s become an inside joke among the staff that next season we are going to present only one-person shows! (Just a joke folks.) Yet, we know, as many of us have already seen these performances in NYC or elsewhere, that these 09-10 one-person performances pack a big punch. Comedy, drama, and (sometimes) complete lunacy will ensue as each performer presents their own unique brand of theatrics. So, without further ado, here are this season’s one-man performances…

MacHomer
Oct. 27-30, 2009
Imagine Shakespeare’s Macbeth performed in 75 minutes—by a single actor. Oh, and did I mention that all of the play’s characters are portrayed in the voices of over 50 characters from The Simpsons? Read more.

One-Man Star Wars Trilogy
Feb. 6, 2010
Actor Charles Ross does it all…the characters, the action, special effects, and even parts of John Williams’ score. Read more.

Tomáš Kubínek
Feb. 19, 2010
A self-proclaimed “Certified Lunatic and Master of the Impossible,” his inspired fusion of clowning, acrobatics, music, magic, and absurdity will astonish and delight people of all ages. Read more.

The Amish Project
Mar. 5-6, 2010
A fictional exploration of true events, this is the story of a schoolhouse shooting in an Amish community, and the path of forgiveness and compassion forged in its wake. Read more.

The State Theatre is located at 15 Livingston Ave in New Brunswick, NJ. For information or to purchase tickets call 732-246-SHOW (7469) or visit http://www.statetheatrenj.org/. Check us out on Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, and YouTube.

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It’s a Pajama Jammy Jam!

September 10, 2009

Children’s music superstars and NOGGIN channel favorites Laurie Berkner, Susie Lampert, Adam Bernstein, and Bob Golden (Also known as The Laurie Berkner Band) will perform a “Pajama Party” concert at the State Theatre on September 13 to benefit The Pajama Program which provides new pajamas for children entering foster care. In addition to wearing pajamas to the concert, families are also encouraged to bring a pair of new children’s pajamas and/or a new children’s book to donate to the program.
A Note from the Band…

Laurie, Susie, Adam, and Bob are throwing a Pajama Party Concert! Kids, wear your pajamas (parents can too) or bring your favorite stuffed animal (for your head of course) to the concert. At the concert we’re collecting new pajamas and books for children in need in the U.S. and around the world, (many of whom are waiting to be adopted.) At the concert there will be a collection bin for your donations.

Those not attending the concert, are also encouraged to drop off their pajama/book donations to the State Theatre Ticket Office on September 13. So, come out and support a good cause!

The State Theatre is located at 15 Livingston Ave in New Brunswick, NJ. For information or to purchase tickets call 732-246-SHOW (7469) or visit http://www.statetheatrenj.org/. Check us out on Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, and YouTube.

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Blues & Jazz returns!

September 3, 2009

Every year in September, we present a little something called the New Jersey Blues & Jazz Festival at the Backstage Jazz Club. It’s 3 days and 6 sets of Blues and Jazz by some of the top musicians in the Blues & Jazz biz. What’s unique about these performances is that both the performers and the attendees sit on the stage, creating an intimate jazz club kind of setting (only 200 seats). Even the entrance to the festival, which is down the alley by the stage door has that small jazz club feel. I have many memories from these festivals and I have met many talented musicians. One of my favorite sets was Jon Faddis with Jimmy Heath. Heath, now 82 years old, can still jam with the best of them, not to mention he is one of the sweetest guys I have ever met. I was able to take a little footage (see below) of their performance at the 2007 festival…the video was filmed a little far back as if I was a fly on the wall, but it’s still cool to watch.
–Kelly Skinner, Director of Public Relations

The 2009 New Jersey Blues & Jazz Festival line-up includes:

Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers
Thu, September 24 at 8pm & 10pm

Marcia Ball
Fri, September 25 at 8pm & 10pm

Yellowjackets
Sat, September 26 at 8pm & 10pm

The State Theatre is located at 15 Livingston Ave in New Brunswick, NJ. For information or to purchase tickets call 732-246-SHOW (7469) or visit http://www.statetheatrenj.org/. Check us out on Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, and YouTube.