Media Contact
Michele Danna
Education Director
Email: EducationDirector@milesquaretheatre.org

Mile Square Theatre Presents “Urinetown: The Musical”
Local Young Artists Take the Stage in MST’s Bold New Pre-Professional Program

HOBOKEN, NJ – Mile Square Theatre (MST) is proud to present its first-ever Pre-Professional Theatre Program production, “Urinetown: The Musical,” book and lyrics by Greg Kotis, music and lyrics by Mark Hollmann. The entire production is led by a team of professionals—our assistants and cast are all young artists ages 18 to 25, based right here in Hudson County and from across North and Central New Jersey. The production opens Friday, July 24, and runs through Sunday, July 26.

Directed by Michele Danna, with Musical Direction by Nathan Morrissey, “Urinetown” is a hilariously funny and touchingly honest musical satire. In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he’s had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom.

Tickets are $25 for general admission and $10 for seniors and children under 12.

“MST is thrilled to be introducing this new program to our community,” said Michele Danna, MST Education Director. “Our Pre-Professional Program bridges the gap between educational theatre and the professional world by providing young artists with the opportunity to collaborate with professional directors, music directors, and technical artists while performing on a professional stage. The program also extends beyond the production itself. Participants take part in our Workshop for the Working Actor, where they receive audition coaching, feedback on their professional materials, and participate in discussions with working theatre professionals. Whether they’re returning to college in the fall or preparing to enter their next audition room, participants leave with valuable experience and practical tools to support the next step in their artistic journey.”

PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Michele Danna
Musical Director: Nathan Morrissey
Choreographer: Ellen Grace Diehl
Stage Manager: Tais Fontanez
Technical Director: Justin Wyble
Assistant Technical Director: Chris Gardner

CAST
Tiffany Albornoz
Charlie Ambrocio
Collin Eagen
Mircea Florescu
Chloe Garcia
Chloe Gulvin
Leah Israeli
Alexa Kirkpatrick
Addie Kriegel
Georgina Lopez
Jaylene Lugo
Gianna Mainor
Mikayla Monclova
Vincent Simpson
Emily Torres
Ethan Young

URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL
July 24–25, 7:00 PM–9:30 PM
July 26, 3:00 PM–4:30 PM
Runtime: 2 ½ hours
General Admission: $25
Seniors & Children under 12: $10

Purchase tickets at https://www.milesquaretheatre.org/events/urinetown-the-musical

About Mile Square Theatre
Founded in 2003, Mile Square Theatre is a nonprofit professional theatre dedicated to producing bold, relevant, and engaging theatrical work for audiences of all ages. MST enriches the region through professional productions and innovative arts education.

Mile Square Theatre
1400 Clinton Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030
(201) 683-7014
Website: www.milesquaretheatre.org
Instagram: @milesquaretheatre
Facebook: @milesquaretheatre

# # #

Theater/Organization: Mile Square Theatre
Theater Address: 1400 Clinton Street Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (201) 683-7014

With no prior experience producing work at an international festival and no corporate sponsors backing them, the group independently formed Cheese Platter Productions specifically to bring their award-winning production to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland this August. The effort is entirely grassroots: self-produced, self-funded, and organized from the ground up by the performers themselves.

The original Nutley Little Theatre production went on to win the 2024 Perry Award for Best Play, one of New Jersey community theatre’s most competitive honors, with cast member Danielle Levitt also earning a nomination for Best Actress. Four of the five original cast members — Sinead Kerr of Bayonne, Kayla Torres of Nutley, Danielle Levitt of Westfield, and Jessa Blackthorne of Carlstadt — will reprise their roles in Scotland, joined by newcomer Mia Jacobs of Caldwell.

Though none of the performers have previously traveled overseas to perform, all come from strong community theatre backgrounds, having built their experience on local, volunteer-driven stages throughout northern New Jersey. What makes this story especially meaningful is that their Fringe journey was born not out of institutional backing, but from friendship. The cast remained close after their 2024 run and made the decision together to revive the production for an international audience despite the steep logistical and financial challenges involved.

Adding a full-circle element to the story, cast member Sinead Kerr is a Scotland native and former Olympic ice dancer who competed for Great Britain in the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Her return to Scotland with this theatrical production marks a unique homecoming moment within the company’s Fringe debut.

The Fringe production will be rehelmed, with Jessa Blackthorne stepping into the role of Director while continuing to perform in the show. Kayla Torres will serve as Assistant Director. Together, the team is refining the award-winning staging for a global audience while preserving the camaraderie and sharp comedic timing that made the original production so successful.

The production will preview on August 7, 2026, followed by performances August 8–15 at The Studio at Paradise Green as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (no performance on August 9). Performance times will begin between 12:25 p.m. and 1:55 p.m. on scheduled dates, and the production runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This amateur production of 5 LESBIANS EATING A QUICHE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

5 LESBIANS EATING A QUICHE is a tenderhearted but raucous comedy set in 1956. The “widows” of the Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein are gathered for their annual quiche breakfast when atomic bomb sirens sound. Has the Communist threat finally come to pass? As their idyllic town and carefully constructed world begins to crumble, secrets emerge and the women wrestle with hysteria, survival, and a fate worse than death: a world without quiche!

5 LESBIANS EATING A QUICHE was first presented by The New Colony, under Co-Artistic directors Andrew Hobgood and Evan Linder and producing director Will Rogers, at Dank Haus in Chicago, Illinois, on June 24, 2011. It was directed by Sarah Gitenstein. This production was subsequently presented in New York City at the 2012 New York International Fringe Festival, before transferring to the SoHo Playhouse, off-Broadway, on October 20, 2012. Notably, this marks the first time the production has been presented at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Cheese Platter Productions is funding the venture entirely through community support and local fundraising efforts throughout northern New Jersey. Fundraising event will be held on July 26 – GET ALL THE DETAILS HERE. Those wishing to contribute immediately may visit the group’s GoFundMe page.

For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:
Jessa Blackthorne
cheeseplatterproductions@gmail.com

Theater/Organization: Cheese Platter Productions
Theater Address: The Studio at Paradise Green, Paradise in Augustines, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, Scotland EH1 1EL (Map It)
Theater Phone: 0131 5100119

Directed by Ryan Daly, who directed the Gateway’s productions of “The Man Who Came to Dinner” and “Much Ado About Nothing,” with assistant director Janelle Hawkes, the show is part of the Gateway’s Community Spotlight Series, three popular plays with scaled-down settings that help round out the Gateway’s first-ever, all-musical MainStage Season. This is Daly’s first experience working on a play by Simon, who also famously wrote “The Sunshine Boys,” “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” “The Odd Couple,” and many more.

“I have a real appreciation for his work. He has a great ear for dialogue,” said Daly. “For an actor, his dialogue is easy to learn and his characters are highly relatable, not cartoonish.”

“London Suite” is one of three of Simon’s “Suite” plays; the others being “Plaza Suite” and “California Suite.” Daly believes “London Suite” is the funniest of the three. The four acts detail the following:
• “Settling Accounts:” A Welsh writer charges his long-time business manager of stealing his money.
• “Going Home:” An American daughter tries to convince her widowed mother, abroad for a shopping trip, to spend an evening with a rich Scotsman.
• “The Man on the Floor:” Married New Yorkers have misplaced their tickets to Wimbledon and are about to lose their suite to actor Kevin Costner who needs it immediately.
• “Diana and Sidney:” Characters from Simon’s “California Suite,” Diana, a famous actress, and Sidney, her bisexual ex-husband, see each other for the first time in years. He’s in love with someone else; she still loves him.

Daly’s cast is filled with a mix of familiar faces seen at the Gateway, such as Joe Chialastri, Andrew Czekalski and Victoria Biron, as well as new performers like Jacob Van Tine, Ginger Liberatore and Maria Black. In order to accommodate as many actors as possible who came to audition, Daly devised additional characters to create an entire hotel “staff,” such as chambermaids, to help transition scene changes.

Performances are 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12, and a 1 p.m. matinee on July 12. Tickets for all Community Spotlight performances are only $15 and can be purchased at GatewayByTheBay.org and at the Karen S. Sutherland Box Office 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Gateway Playhouse is located at 738 Bay Ave. in Somers Point. More information and tickets can be found at GatewayByTheBay.org or call the box office at 609-653-0553.

About Gateway Playhouse:
Since its reopening in 2017, Gateway Playhouse, a 501-(c)3 nonprofit, has provided quality and affordable year-round entertainment to residents and visitors alike, as well as offered educational opportunities to grammar and high school students, in the hopes of creating future generations of actors, directors and audiences. Aside from an annual MainStage season, the Gateway also produces a variety of comedy and cabaret shows throughout the year. As the saying goes, “see you at the Gateway!”
###

PHOTOS (Provided): Neil Simon’s ‘London Suite,’ part of Gateway Playhouse’s ‘Community Spotlight Series,’ will run for three shows in two days, July 11 and 12. Tickets are only $15.

Theater/Organization: GATEWAY PLAYHOUSE
Theater Address: 738 BAY AVENUE SOMERS POINT, New Jersey 08244 (Map It)
Theater Phone:  609-653-0553

The audience is invited to join the discussion, which will provide an opportunity to reflect on the relevance of the play’s themes to civic engagement and our democracy today.

Details and ticket information can be found at https://www.pioneerproductionscompany.org/seasontickets/Constitution

About the show: Fifteen-year-old Heidi earned her college tuition by winning Constitutional debate competitions across the United States. In this hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human play, she resurrects her teenage self to trace the profound relationship between four generations of women and the founding document that shaped their lives. What the Constitution Means to Me won the Obie Award for Best New American Play and the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best American Play. The play was also nominated for the Tony Award for Best Play and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Pioneer Productions was incorporated in 2003 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit theatre company by founding members Dan Vissers, Shanna Levine-Phelps, and Jon Mantes. The Company’s mission is to share our collective human story through live theatrical performance by producing shows that are relevant to our time and inspire audiences to attend live theater. For more information about Pioneer Productions, visit https://www.pioneerproductionscompany.org.

The League of Women Voters (LWV) of the Morris Area is a nonpartisan, grassroots civic organization that empowers voters and defends democracy. Originally formed in 1947 as the League of Women Voters of the Morristown Area, the organization officially rebranded to the League of Women Voters of the Morris Area to reflect its expanded outreach and service to the broader Morris County community. The League encourages active, informed participation in government and works to increase understanding of major public policy issues. It never supports or opposes any political party or candidate. Membership is open to anyone aged 16 or older.

Theater/Organization: Pioneer Productions
Theater Address: The Stanley Center, 94 Fairmount Ave, Chatham, New Jersey 07928 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (973) 298-0821

The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival extends this tradition with THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JANE AUSTEN, ABRIDGED. Written by Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast, and Meghan Winch, the piece joins a growing wave of Austen spoof and homage theatre, from Jane Austen in 48 Minutes to Lauren Gunderson’s Pemberley sequels.

THE COMPLETE WORKS touches on most of Austen’s major novels—layered with pop culture nods, feminist commentary, and frequent fourth wall breaks—but its heavy emphasis on the most famous titles leaves the lesser known works underserved. For dedicated “Janeites” – who were out in full force at the performance observed – this seems fine. But for the perhaps less initiated, this feels like a missed opportunity; the best parodies spark curiosity about the originals.

Gabby S. Trice’s set and props transform the intimate ¾ round space into a whimsical swirl of Regency era lunacy, complete with pastel colored furniture pieces set against a green wall of doors and bookshelves. Janus Stefanowicz’s costumes, however, while largely true to the period, often appear ill fitted and not especially flattering on the actors, softening the impact of the Regency aesthetic the production aims to evoke.

Directed by co-playwright Bedford, the trio of actors —Madeleine Garcia, Sarah Gilko, and David Pica—prove nimble, charming, and impressively versatile in portraying multiple characters with the hop of a hat or the shift of a shawl. The staging, however, isn’t always as precise. In such a tight venue, actor placement and inconsistent projection occasionally muddy the text and challenge audibility —an issue in a show driven almost entirely by rapid fire language.

The production also falls into a familiar trap: the gimmick loses steam. Eventually, the comedic ideas stop building while the increasingly frenetic pace makes the storytelling hard to follow unless you’re already steeped in Austen. What begins as witty gradually turns forced and repetitive leading to a sense of fatigue rather than escalating fun.

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival

Review submitted by:
Franklin Joseph

Author’s Bio:
Franklin Joseph is an avid theatre goer who takes delight in the active theatre arts community of the southeast Pennsylvania region.

On Saturday, June 20th, I finally indulged in a dream to attend your production of ‘H.M.S. Pinafore’, and I write now to compliment you on your performance. Your spirited vision of Gilbert & Sullivan’s classic lampoon of rigid Victorian social class set in the microcosm on a Ship of the Line both uplifted and delighted my friend Bill, my wife Allison and myself, and I hope you found as much joy performing as we felt watching. I’m sure you did, as you projected it on stage.

I’ve always found that the apotheosis of art happens when your audience channels your joy, your esprit, the passion you invest in your creation, and we certainly joined that current, sharing an intimacy of spirit that only such a talented and passionate cast can galvanize.

‘Penzance’ has always been my preferred show followed by the Mikado. I grew up with ‘Penzance’, and the Tarantula has plowed an indelible wake into my consciousness—truce to navigation, take another station. . . But after seeing your performance, ‘Pinafore’ has sailed its way to First Sea-Lord of my heart. All it took was to see it performed by a most-talented cast who lived their passion on stage.

I also compliment your professional theater support staff, who helped me deal with a ticket issue.

I wish you many good years of production.

Brava & Bravo.

Your Servant,

T. Fox Dunham

Bucks County Gilbert & Sullivan Society

Review submitted by:
T. Fox Dunham

Author’s Bio:
T. Fox Dunham lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with his wife, Allison. He’s a cancer survivor, disabled author, modern bard, herbalist, baker and historian. His first book, The Street Martyr, is in production by Throughline Films. He’s a well-published crime, horror and Sci-fi author and a member of the Horror Writers Association. Fox is proud to have contributed to official Stargate canon with a story published in the Stargate Anthology Points of Origin. And his op-eds have been published by The Philadelphia Inquirer, Pittsburgh Gazette, MSN and many more. More information at tfoxdunham.com & Twitter: @TFoxDunham

The Philadelphia Summer Residency Series was devised by East Lynne’s Executive Director Mark David Boberick as a way to build an artistic bridge between Philadelphia and Cape May.

“Philadelphia is one of our greatest resources for talent,” said Boberick, “so it only makes sense to utilize those actors, directors and writers for whom theaters are primarily dark in the summer, which, for us, is our busiest and most exciting time of year. This initiative is yet another new chapter for East Lynne and a way to connect two historic cities that share an artistic culture.”

“Funny Girls,” created and performed by Childs, is a celebration of the revolutionary women who transformed American comedy. With sharp wit and remarkable physical precision, Childs brings to life the comedic styles of icons such as Fanny Brice, Mae West, Phyllis Diller, Joan Rivers, Gilda Radner and others who helped redefine what women could do on stage and screen.

Childs is also the co-founder and producing artistic director of Philadelphia’s 1812 Productions, for which she has created over 25 original works including “To the Moon,” “It’s My Party: The Women and Comedy Project,” “The Carols,” and the annual political humor show, “This Is The Week That Is.” Most recently, Childs debuted another one-woman show, “She Gets Around,” this spring at 1812 Productions.

“We are elated to kick off this new summer residency with Jennifer Childs,” said Boberick. “She is one of Philadelphia’s most creative and celebrated comedic voices. If our audiences don’t already know and love her work, they soon will become huge fans.”

“Funny Girls” will be presented in the Clemans Theater’s intimate cabaret setting, with musical direction by Owen Robbins. The show runs 7 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays, Tuesdays; 2 p.m. Sundays from July 24 through Aug. 4. Tickets are $40 general admission, $35 seniors, $25 students and military. The Clemans Theater for the Arts is located at 717 Franklin St. in Cape May. For tickets and information, go to EastLynneTheater.org.

About East Lynne Theater Company: Founded in 1980, East Lynne Theater Company has been named by “The New York Times” as one of the Top 75 summer theaters in North America and recognized by the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly as “one of the state’s most important cultural treasures.” In 2023, understanding that the American Theater is itself a growing work of art, East Lynne expanded its mission to “present and preserve America’s theatrical heritage” by including plays about America today. As of 2026, East Lynne continues to raise funds for its Capital Campaign to renovate its new home, the Clemans Theater for the Arts at Allen AME. As the company expands into the Clemans Theater, so does its calendar, which now offers year-round entertainment that includes plays and performances from worldwide writers, actors, musicians, and more. Go to EastLynneTheater.org.

###

PHOTO CAPTION:
Renowned Philadelphia actress Jennifer Childs will help East Lynne Theater Company of Cape May debut its annual Philadelphia Summer Residency Series with her one-woman show ‘Funny Girls’ from July 24 to Aug. 4.

Theater/Organization: East Lynne Theater Company
Theater Address: Clemans Theater for the Arts at the Allen AME, 717 Franklin St, Cape May, NJ 08204 (Map It)
Theater Phone:  609-602-8703

Celebrating the timeless music, charm and swagger of the legendary Rat Pack era, Tomasello will bring the unforgettable sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. to life in a dynamic solo performance backed by the renowned Ocean City Pops. The evening will be an entertaining blend of classic hits, storytelling and vintage Vegas-style showmanship.

The concert officially launches the Ocean City Pops’ 2026 summer season, offering audiences a journey through the Great American Songbook. According to the O.C. Pops’ website, the performance will feature “class, comedy and flair” as Tomasello recreates the atmosphere of the Sinatra era with his signature vocal style and engaging stage presence.

A favorite among Jersey Shore and Philadelphia audiences, Tomasello is regarded for his interpretations of swingtime favorites and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages. For his “One Man Rat Pack” show, Tomasello will perform hits such as Sinatra’s “Fly Me To The Moon,” Martin’s “Everybody Loves Somebody” and Davis’ “The Candy Man,” among others. In a rare treat for audiences, several of these Rat Pack hits will be performed in their original arrangements, providing ticketholders the unique opportunity to hear this music the way it was intended with a full orchestra. Tomasello secured the arrangements himself for his standout tribute to these three iconic entertainers. Local musician and band leader Ed Vezinho, of Egg Harbor Township, also specially arranged some tunes for Tomasello’s performance.

“I am so excited to be back performing with Conductor Vince Lee and the Ocean City Pops–and even more ecstatic to help them kick off their summer season,” said Tomasello. “To to perform and share these songs, most in their original arrangements, with this orchestra is something that I know audiences will cherish. And I can’t wait to debut Ed Vezinho’s arrangements which are sure to knock some socks off.”

The concert takes place 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at the Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk in Ocean City. Tickets are $27 and $32 at ShowPass.com. Tomasello’s new album “The Lost Sinatra-Basie” will be for sale at the show.

About Brandon Tomasello:
Brandon Tomasello is an American vocalist renowned for his dedication to the Great American Songbook and the Big Band era. His passion for classic music brings timeless melodies to life with a modern flair. At 19, Tomasello proved that Big Band music still resonated with his generation by opening at Resorts Casino Hotel’s Superstar Theater to a sold-out crowd in Atlantic City. This led to a six-month residency, making him the youngest entertainer in A.C. history to have his own headlining extended stay show. Throughout his career, Tomasello has performed at venues such as Borgata, Golden Nugget, Hard Rock, Harrah’s, and Tropicana. He has collaborated with notable artists such as SNL alumnus Joe Piscopo. In 2020, Tomasello released his first full-length studio album “My Kind of Swing,” and in 2025 he released an album with the City Rhythm Orchestra, “The Lost Sinatra-Basie” featuring never-before-heard arrangements written by Billy Byers for Frank Sinatra and the Count Basie Band. Tomasello shares his love for the Great American Songbook and Big Band music with audiences nationwide. His dedication ensures that the golden age of swing remains alive and vibrant for new generations.

###

Theater/Organization: OCEAN CITY MUSIC PIER
Theater Address: 825 BOARDWALK OCEAN CITY, New Jersey 08226 (Map It)
Theater Phone:

The loose narrative follows Claude, a young man facing the draft, as he wrestles with whether to embrace a free spirited life among a tribe of countercultural bohemians led by Berger or to enter military service. The musical takes Claude—and the audience—on a whirlwind journey through the sexual revolution, drug abuse, racial tension, political protest, and even moments of brief nudity.

The cast at the Civic Theatre of Allentown, under the musical direction of Steve Reisteter delivers the score’s highlights — “Aquarius,” “Let the Sunshine In,” and “Good Morning Starshine”— with energy and warmth, filling the theatre with a sense of communal joy that evokes the era’s blend of upheaval and hope.

But much of the vocal work elsewhere becomes muddled, with lyrics often rendered incomprehensible—whether because the tempos are too fast, the choreography (by Rose Fortkamp and Sarai Misic) competes with the actors’ ability to deliver the text, or simply due to careless articulation. This blurring of the lyrical clarity undercuts the impact of several musical moments and impedes the narrative development of the story.

Occasionally, the actors appear to struggle with the vocal ranges of their songs, often slipping out of intonation. A few bright spots do shine through: Makenna Copeland’s Dionne opens the production with a vibrant, full voiced “Aquarius,” and Melody Portnoy’s Chrissy offers a tender, heartfelt rendition of “Frank Mills.”

Anthony Rizzuto’s Berger establishes the character’s necessary anti-establishment irreverence but lacks the character’s magnetic swagger and commanding showmanship. Liam Thompson’s Claude emerges as a gentle, film loving dreamer facing uncertainty in the face of the looming weight of the draft. Rachel Kemmerer’s Jeannie glows with wide eyed idealism, grounding her pregnancy and earth mother aura in genuine warmth.

Josephine Genuardi’s set design creates an eclectic hippie enclave, using rolling stair units, platforms, and an array of found objects salvaged from the excesses of throw away materialism. Lighting designer Sarah Goldstein adds visual variety and sculptural dimension, shaping the space with nuance and energy. Rigby Maitico’s costumes capture the 1960s aesthetic with flair, grounding the production firmly in its era.

Director William Sanders’ production captures much of the show’s exuberant celebration of free will and anti establishment idealism. One might wish that Sanders’ production relied less on spectacle as mere shock value and instead pursued a deeper emotional core and higher dramatic stakes. Without this depth, the weaknesses in the book and story arcs become more apparent, and the production occasionally slips into feeling like a disjointed hippie revue.

Run continues thru July 5, 2026 at:

Civic Theatre of Allentown
527 N 19th Street
Allentown, PA 18104

Review submitted by:
Franklin Joseph

Author’s Bio:
Franklin Joseph is an avid theatre goer who takes delight in the active theatre arts community of the southeast Pennsylvania region.

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Get ready for a rock-and-roll good time as Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company (RSYTC) proudly presents Bye Bye Birdie, the first production of its 2026 Summer Season. Tickets are now on sale for this beloved Broadway classic, performed by an outstanding cast of young performers from grades 2–12.

Filled with laughter, romance, catchy songs, and 1950s charm, Bye Bye Birdie remains one of musical theatre’s most entertaining and enduring favorites. Audiences will follow the hilarious chaos that unfolds when teen idol Conrad Birdie is drafted into the Army and his publicity team devises one final publicity stunt before he ships out.

Featuring memorable musical numbers, colorful characters, and plenty of surprises, this family-friendly production showcases the incredible talent, dedication, and hard work of RSYTC’s young performers.

“Our students have been working tirelessly to bring this classic musical to life,” said RSYTC leadership. “From the energetic dance numbers to the laugh-out-loud comedy, audiences are in for a fantastic theatrical experience. We invite the entire community to come support these talented young performers and enjoy a wonderful night at the theatre.”

Known for producing high-quality youth theatre productions, Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company continues to provide opportunities for young actors, singers, and dancers to develop their skills while creating memorable performances for local audiences.

Don’t Miss It!

Come see Sussex County’s best young talent in grades 2–12 as they bring this Broadway favorite to the stage.

Tickets On Sale Now

Purchase Tickets:
www.risingstarsytc.com/boxoffice

Learn More About RSYTC:
www.risingstarsytc.com

Gather your family and friends and join Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company for an unforgettable production of Bye Bye Birdie this summer. Seats are expected to sell quickly, so purchase your tickets today!

Bye Bye Birdie
Presented by Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company
Where tomorrow’s stars shine today.

Theater/Organization: RISING STARS YOUTH THEATRE CO.
Theater Address: 32 MAIN STREET SPARTA, New Jersey 07871 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (973) 346-2426

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Journey to the Pride Lands this summer as Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company (RSYTC) proudly presents Disney’s THE LION KING JR., performed by the talented members of our Junior Division (Grades 2–8). Tickets are now on sale for this beloved Disney musical that has captivated audiences around the world.

Featuring unforgettable songs, colorful characters, and an inspiring story about courage, friendship, and finding your place in the world, THE LION KING JR. brings the magic of Disney to life through the incredible talents of Sussex County’s young performers.

Audiences will follow Simba’s unforgettable journey from playful cub to future king as he discovers the true meaning of responsibility, family, and believing in himself. Filled with stunning music, exciting performances, and heartwarming moments, this production is perfect for audiences of all ages.

“Our Junior Division students have worked incredibly hard to bring this iconic story to the stage,” said RSYTC leadership. “Their enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication shine in every scene. We can’t wait for audiences to experience the magic they’ve created together.”

Produced by some of Sussex County’s most promising young performers, The Lion King Jr. showcases the talent, confidence, and teamwork that make Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company a special place for young artists to grow and thrive.

DON’T MISS THE ADVENTURE!

Come see Sussex County’s best young talent in grades 2–8 as they bring Disney’s beloved classic to life on stage.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Purchase Tickets:
www.risingstarsytc.com/boxoffice

Learn More About RSYTC:
www.risingstarsytc.com

Gather your family and friends and join us for an unforgettable theatrical adventure filled with music, laughter, and Disney magic.
Seats are expected to sell quickly, so purchase your tickets today!

Disney’s THE LION KING JR.
Presented by Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company

Theater/Organization: RISING STARS YOUTH THEATRE CO.
Theater Address: 32 MAIN STREET SPARTA, New Jersey 07871 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (973) 346-2426

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Seize the day and join Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company (RSYTC) for an unforgettable production of Disney’s NEWSIES, performed by an outstanding cast of young performers in our Mixed Division (Grades 2–12). Tickets are now on sale for this high-energy Broadway favorite that is sure to inspire audiences of all ages.

Based on the true story of New York City’s young newspaper carriers, Newsies is a thrilling tale of courage, determination, and the power of standing together for what is right. Featuring unforgettable songs, electrifying dance numbers, and a powerful message of teamwork and perseverance, this beloved musical has become one of the most celebrated family shows on stage today.

Audiences will follow Jack Kelly and the Newsies as they rally together to fight for a fair future, proving that even the youngest voices can make the biggest difference. Packed with excitement, humor, heart, and nonstop energy, this production promises to be one of the highlights of the summer theatre season.

“Our cast has poured an incredible amount of hard work, talent, and passion into this production,” said RSYTC leadership. “From the powerful music to the exciting choreography, NEWSIES showcases the dedication and creativity of our performers. We can’t wait to share their work with the community.”

Featuring performers from grades 2–12, this production highlights the remarkable talent found throughout Sussex County and provides audiences with an inspiring theatrical experience they won’t soon forget.

DON’T MISS THE NEWS EVENT OF THE SUMMER!

Come see Sussex County’s best young talent in grades 2–12 bring this beloved Broadway hit to life on stage.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Purchase Tickets:
www.risingstarsytc.com/boxoffice

Learn More About RSYTC:
www.risingstarsytc.com

Gather your family and friends and join us for an inspiring, action-packed production filled with unforgettable music, spectacular performances, and plenty of heart. Purchase your tickets today and discover why everyone is talking about NEWSIES!

Disney’s NEWSIES
Presented by Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company

Theater/Organization: RISING STARS YOUTH THEATRE CO.
Theater Address: 32 MAIN STREET SPARTA, New Jersey 07871 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (973) 346-2426

Plot: In today’s modern world, Judy and Johnny feel out of place. They’ve chosen to give up the trappings of the Internet age and live life like it’s 1950 all over again, but “Nostalgia ain’t what it used to be…” How can they cope when the fantasy of domestic bliss clashes with cold hard reality? Issues of marriage partnership, identity, and traditional gender roles swirl in this halcyon dream of yesteryear where rules and routines become a love language all their own. “An original, sometimes unsettling look at the masks people put on in order to conceal their pain.” The Evening Standard. WhatsOnStage raves“…sharp, funny, and strikingly perceptive play,”

From the Director: “So often, when we talk about love and marriage, there’s this idea of the “honeymoon phase” and then real life, and we romanticize that honeymoon phase when reality proves itself to be difficult. I think what speaks to me most in HOME, I’M DARLING is that love forged through facing reality and continuing to choose love is so much deeper and more authentic than any of the impressions of love we get in the honeymoon phase. Fantasy can get you so far, and it’s scary to leave fantasy behind, but life becomes so much richer when you take real stock of what actually works for you and what you actually want in the confines of reality.” —Peter Fenton, Director

Director: Peter Fenton Producer: D. Ryan Lafferty
Stage Manager: Terri Bentley Lighting Designer: David Sullivan

Cast:
Kira Stein as Judy
Sara Stepnowski as Fran
Parker Madison as Johnny
Danny Gleason as Marcus
Denise Dole Puchalski as Sylvia
Megan Gramlich as Alex

Tickets are $25 each, available at www.LanghornePlayers.org
(Discounted student admission and group rates are available.)
Special Events: Join us for a gala celebration opening night! – Talk-Back Session (Audience Q&A with the cast immediately following the performance, Sunday 6/19)

Be Advised: Langhorne Players content is intended for a mature audience, ages 17 and older.
For any questions or further information, please contact info@langhorneplayers.org

Theater/Organization: Langhorne Players
Theater Address: 1440 Newtown-Richboro Road Newtown, Pennsylvania 18940 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (215) 860-0818

Similar in construct to the popular Jersey Boys, the show requires its cast to serve as both actors and musicians—a formidable challenge given the technical demands of the material.

While the plot is lean—utilizing career shifts and professional jealousies as mere scaffolding for the musical numbers—the performances are so effective that noting the thin narrative is a mere quibble.

The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival production features a powerhouse cast: Jeremy Sevelovitz (Carl Perkins), Nick Voss (Elvis Presley), Chance Michael Wall (Johnny Cash), and Dominique Scott (Jerry Lee Lewis), with Scott pulling double duty as the production’s musical director. The ensemble is rounded out by John Gardiner as Sam Phillips, Shannon Mullen as Dyanne, Mike Lucchetti as Fluke, and Chuck Zayas as Brother Jay.

Perhaps the most impressive achievement here is that, under Jim Helsinger’s direction, the actors find their own voices within these legendary personas. This nuance prevents the piece from devolving into a “Vegas impersonator” showcase and lends the evening a genuine heart.  Helsinger preserves the intimate spirit of the piece, framing it as a quiet, free-wheeling jam session among singers on the cusp of legendary status.

Scenic Designer Bert Scott captures the ramshackle charm of the Sun Records studio, while Eric T. Haugen’s lighting provides vibrant visual variety for the vast song list. Though David M. Greenberg’s sound design is generally balanced, it occasionally borders on being overly aggressive for the space. Lisa Zinni’s costumes effectively anchor the production in 1956 while subtly hinting at the “branded” icons these men would eventually become.

Ultimately, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is about the music—and in this production, the music is terrific.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET
By Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux
Original Concept and Direction by Floyd Mutrux
Inspired by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins
Directed by Jim Helsinger
Music Director: Dominique Scott

Running thru 6/28/2026 at

PENNSYLVANIA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
2755 Station Avenue
Center Valley, PA 18034
Box Office:
610.282.WILL
https://pashakespeare.org/million-dollar-quartet/

Review submitted by:
Franklin Joseph

Author’s Bio:
Franklin Joseph is an avid theatre goer who takes delight in the active theatre arts community of the southeast Pennsylvania region.

What was so special about this show? The cast. The sentiment that echoed night after night from the audience was “it was like watching a real group of friends up there.“ The secret? They were. Although they had met just a few months before under the careful direction of Sharon Coyle, this group of women formed an unbreakable bond. That friendship was the birthplace of Magnolia Productions.

“In community theater you usually do a show, promise to keep in touch and say goodbye,” said Magnolia cofounder Samantha Ambler. “Most times that doesn’t actually happen, though. You may see each other for a little while, but after time, everyone gets busy and moves onto new projects. We knew we weren’t willing to let that happen to this group. We weren’t willing to let go of each other.”

The solution? Ambler and castmate Christa Collier decided to start their own company, dubbing it “Magnolia Productions”. Producing plays with friends was only the first of their goals–the bigger aim was to give a voice to women. Magnolia was founded on the principle of presenting stories by women, for women, to women. They believe every woman has a story worth telling and hearing.

This month they are telling some of the hardest stories to hear. On June 12 they open a production of the still-controversial THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES by V (formerly known as Eve Ensler). “It’s wild that even in 2026, this is still considered a taboo subject,” said board member and co-director Anne Kaufman. “This play gives audiences–women in particular–the chance to connect to each other and to the community that shares these experiences. That’s what community theater is, and should be about.”

The play features monologues with a variety of topics affecting the female body. Some are humorous and lighthearted, others tell stories of abuse and atrocities committed against women. The cast features 13 actresses of diverse backgrounds telling the stories of hundreds of women.

“These are the kinds of stories Magnolia was created to tell. No matter how uncomfortable they may be to hear,” said Ambler, also co-directing this production.

For this show’s community outreach, Magnolia Productions is hosting a donation drive for The She Shed of the Bayshore area. They are asking all audience members to make a donation of new, sealed feminine hygiene products. At the end of the show’s run, all of the donations will be given to The She Shed to help women in the local area who are in need.

Magnolia Productions is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit community theater group founded and run by women. THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES is the last show in their second complete season. Their first season, which consisted of four shows, garnered them six nominations for excellence in theater from New Jersey Association of Community Theater.

THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES runs June 12-20 with performances Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30, plus 2 PM on Saturdays, at The Theater at the Navesink Library: 149 Monmouth Ave. in Atlantic Highlands. Tickets are available at magnoliaproduction.ludus.com.

Theater/Organization: Magnolia Productions
Theater Address: The Theater at the Navesink Library, 149 Monmouth Ave, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey 07716 (Map It)
Theater Phone:

North East, MD — The Milburn Stone Theatre at Cecil College is thrilled to announce the upcoming production of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical, running June 12–21, 2025. This edgy, electrifying stage adaptation of the cult-classic film brings scandal, seduction, and ’90s nostalgia to the Milburn Stone stage — and promises to be one of the most talked-about productions of the season.

Based on the beloved film and featuring a book by Roger Kumble, Lindsey Rosin, and Jordan Ross, Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical follows step-siblings Sebastian and Kathryn as they scheme, manipulate, and seduce their way through Manhattan’s elite — until real emotions threaten to unravel it all. Set to an unforgettable jukebox soundtrack featuring Britney Spears, R.E.M., The Verve, and more, this production is packed with drama, passion, and dark humor that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Recommended for ages 16+ for mature themes and content.

“If you’re a ’90s kid like myself, you’ll love Cruel Intentions,” said MST Artistic Director Andrew John Mitchell. “It’s the story you know and love, filled with an incredible soundtrack full of songs from the decade. The cast is incredible, the choreography is fantastic, and our live band will keep you rocking all night long. Don’t miss out on Cruel Intentions.”

Performances:
Friday, June 12 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, June 13 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, June 14 at 2:00 pm
Friday, June 20 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, June 21 at 7:30 pm

Cast:
Sebastian Valmont — Cole Hanrahan
Kathryn Merteuil — Marion Jackson
Annette Hargrove — Eliza Davulcu
Cecile Caldwell — Karly Laskowski
Blaine Tuttle — Matt Lucatamo
Greg McConnell — Dalton Watts
Ronald Clifford — Dorian Bean
Dr. Greenbaum / Bunny Caldwell — Karen Decker
Manchester Prep Students / Ensemble — Sabrina Van Voorhis, Jacob Redden, Chase Dove, Lindsay Hamilton

Production Staff:
Director — Andrew John Mitchell
Music Director — Aurelien Eulert
Choreographer — Caitlin Van Driessche
Intimacy Coordinator — Lucy Vavala
Stage Manager — Riley Calpin
Lighting Designer — Matt Coyle
Audio Engineer — Paul Surowiec
Costume Designer — Maggie Dennis
Properties Designer — Daniel Combs

Tickets are available through the Milburn Stone Theatre box office at (410) 287-1037 or online at the Cast98 Studio page. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the film or discovering the story for the first time, Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical is a thrilling, unforgettable night where reputations are everything — and no one plays fair.

Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical is presented through special permission from Broadway Licensing Global.

The Milburn Stone Theatre is a community theatre located on the campus of Cecil College, open to the entire community. For more information, visit us at One Seahawk Drive, North East, MD 21901 or call (410) 287-1037.

###

Theater/Organization: Milburn Stone Theatre at Cecil College
Theater Address: One Seahawk Drive North East, Maryland 21901 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (410) 287-1037

Media Contact
Michele Danna
Education Director
Email: EducationDirector@milesquaretheatre.org

Mile Square Theatre Presents “An Evening in the Woods: Musical Selections from Into the Woods”

Spring 2026 Education Program Fundraiser Concert to Support Accessible Arts Education

Mile Square Theatre is proud to announce its first-ever Education Program Fundraiser, “An Evening in the Woods: Musical Selections from Into the Woods in Concert,” taking place on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM, with a preshow reception beginning at 6:00 PM.

Directed by Michele Danna, with Musical Direction by Robert Farruggia and accompaniment by Andrew Sfiris, this special evening will celebrate the talent, artistry, and community that define MST’s growing theatre education program. The concert will feature performances by MST’s youth and adult students alongside professional Teaching Artists and industry professionals.

Guests are invited to arrive early for a festive preshow reception featuring drinks, light bites, raffles, door prizes, and more. Following the performance, audiences are welcome to join the cast for a post-show celebration in the lobby.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children under 12 and seniors. All proceeds from the event will directly support MST’s Theatre Education Department and its mission to provide high-quality, accessible theatre training and performance opportunities for artists of all ages and experience levels.

“Our goal is to continue growing a program that is both artistically excellent and financially accessible,” said Michele Danna, Education Director at Mile Square Theatre. “This fundraiser allows us to expand scholarship opportunities, support professional Teaching Artists, and create meaningful creative spaces for more members of our community.”

Throughout the year, MST offers a comprehensive theatre education program for youth and adults, including classes in Musical Theatre Voice, Acting, Improv, and more. The youth division serves students ages 4-18 of all skill levels and abilities, while the adult program welcomes everyone from seasoned performers to first-time participants. Summer offerings include youth performance camps and a young adult musical theatre program for performers ages 18-25.

MST’s Education Program is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where artists can take risks, grow creatively, and build community through the arts. By working with a diverse team of professional Teaching Artists actively engaged in the industry, MST makes high-level theatrical training accessible to performers at every stage of their artistic journey.

Production Team
Director: Michele Danna
Musical Director: Robert Farruggia
Accompanist: Andrew Sfiris

Featured Performers
Adult Students
Maria Dimoka
Gretchen Goldsworthy
Tania Hryckowian
Victoria Ioppolo
Alexa Kirkpatrick
Margaret Leone
Christine Melina
Maria Ruppert
Rachel Schardt
Kenton Williams
Youth Students
Molly Brennan
Bianca Hodge
Abigail Rowan Degnan
Teaching Artists
Ian Brodsky
Yael Chanukov
Rodrigo Ignacio Cruz
Michele Danna
Tarik R. Davis
Robby Farruggia
Cristina Farruggia
Andrew Sfiris
Daryl L. Stewart

For additional information about the event or MST’s Theatre Education Program, please contact Michele Danna at EducationDirector@milesquaretheatre.org.

Event Information:
“An Evening in the Woods: Musical Selections from Into the Woods”
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Preshow Reception: 6:00 PM
Performance: 7:00 PM
Adults: $25
Children under 12 & Seniors: $10
Purchase tickets at www.milesquaretheatre.org

Theater/Organization: Mile Square Theatre
Theater Address: 1400 Clinton St Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 (Map It)
Theater Phone: (201) 683-7014

To celebrate its 100th anniversary, Theatre Harrisburg has partnered with the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra for a special two-performance concert presentation of the musical. Having previously staged FOLLIES in 1981 and 1999, the company embraces the concert format as a way to avoid the financial burden while placing Stephen Sondheim’s magnificent score at center stage.

From the opening chords—dissonant brass sighs tinged with ghostly melancholy—it is immediately clear that the audience is in excellent hands under the baton of Stuart Malina and the superb Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra. Opportunities to hear a classic Broadway score performed with the full orchestration for which it was originally conceived are increasingly rare, making this production especially rewarding. Malina, whose experience spans conducting, orchestration, and acting, leads with dramatic awareness, sensitivity and assurance.

Perhaps the less obvious achievement of the production is the vocal direction. Under the skilled guidance of vocal director Mitchell Sensenig-Wilshire, the entire cast delivers Sondheim’s soaring melodies and razor-sharp lyrics with clarity and emotional precision. This is fine vocal work, equal to the quality of the symphony orchestra which accompanies it.

At the heart of FOLLIES are two couples: Buddy and Sally Plummer, and Ben and Phyllis Stone. Sally and Phyllis, once glamorous showgirls, married their stage-door Johnnies only to find themselves years later confronting lives marked by compromise, regret, and disillusionment. Director and choreographer Brian Massey has assembled an exceptional cast to navigate these emotional complexities. Maria Petrilak’s Sally beautifully captures the character’s yearning to rekindle her romance alongside her growing fragility and desperation. Eric Mansilla’s Buddy embodies the weary ache of unrequited devotion. Jennifer Hughes gives Phyllis a polished sophistication that barely conceals profound resentment and emptiness, while Michael Kohler’s Ben projects effortless success masking emotional hallowness.

All four leads are outstanding vocalists. Among the evening’s highlights are Petrilak’s haunting rendition of “In Buddy’s Eyes,” her poignant duet with Kohler on “Too Many Mornings,” Hughes’s incisive “Lucy and Jessie,” and Mansilla’s frenetic “Buddy’s Blues.” As the younger incarnations of the four principal characters, Bernadette Bratina, Olivia Kane, Timothy Lupia, and Brad Leer offer a dazzling and joyful “You’re Gonna Love Tomorrow.” Other standout moments include Maria Albani leading “Who’s That Woman?”—a thrilling production number pairing veteran showgirls with their younger selves —and Theresa Croteau’s stirring performance of the anthem of resilience, “I’m Still Here.”

At its core, FOLLIES is about the divergent and often compromised paths people travel through life. The setting—the final night on stage before a once-grand theater is demolished—serves as a potent metaphor for loss and the passage of time. In this concert staging, the absence of a fully realized physical environment is occasionally felt. Nevertheless, Matthew Mitra’s lighting design and Paul Foltz’s costumes do admirable work in establishing period, atmosphere, and emotional tone.

Theatre Harrisburg and the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra deserve enormous praise for this deeply rewarding collaboration. Opportunities to experience Sondheim’s complete score of FOLLIES are rare; to hear it performed with such musical richness and emotional power is rarer still.

FOLLIES CONCERT VERSION
Book by
JAMES GOLDMAN
Music and Lyrics by
STEPHEN SONDHEIM
Produced Originally on Broadway by
Harold Prince
Orchestrations By
Jonathan Tunik
By special arrangement with
Cameron Mackintosh
PRESENTED IN COLLABORATION WITH THE HARRISBURG
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND CONDUCTED BY MAESTRO STUART MALINA

THEATRE HARRISBURG
513 Hurlock St.
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 232-5501

Review submitted by:
Franklin Joseph

Author’s Bio:
Franklin Joseph is an avid theatre goer who takes delight in the active theatre and arts community of the southeast Pennsylvania region.

Based on the book by Sarah L. Delany and A. Elizabeth Delany with Amy Hill Hearth, the play opens with the sisters, Sadie and Bessie, now 102 and 103 years young, recalling their exceptional lives with warmth, wit and clarity. The sisters guide audiences through the monumental events that shaped our country over the last century, such as the Jim Crow South, two World Wars, the Civil Rights Movement, among others. Throughout their long lives the Delany sisters defied stereotypes: both received a college education, as well as advanced degrees from Columbia University. Bessie earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), while Sadie held a Master’s in Education, and both embarked on ground-breaking careers. Over the years the women considered notables like W.E.B. DuBois, Booker T. Washington, Eleanor Roosevelt, Cab Calloway, and Duke Ellington friends.

Their fascinating stories, as well as anecdotes drawn from their rich family history and careers as pioneering African-American professionals, however, unfold into something larger: personal reflections on the American story—its triumphs, its failures and the resilience required to endure both.

“As we mark our first full year at the Clemans Theater for the Arts, the former Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church, this story ties in beautifully to Cape May’s own history, as the Delany sisters and our theater building essentially grew up together and experienced many of the same historical events—in first-person for the sisters, while the other served as a gathering place for faith and community during our country’s toughest times,” says Mark David Boberick, executive director of East Lynne. “We specifically designed this show for this special theater because we’ve discovered that within this space history isn’t distant, it’s present all around us, and our entire company is extremely excited to bring this production to our community.”

Richarda Abrams, a five-time AUDELCO Award-winning actress, plays Sadie Delany, who became the first Black permitted to teach Domestic Science at the high school level in the New York City Public Schools. Abrams’ television and theater credits include “One Life to Live,” “The Vagina Monologues” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” Veteran theater and television actress Sharon Hope reprises the role of Bessie Delany, a role she previously performed on tour, the sister who became the second Black woman to practice dentistry in New York State. Hope’s recent TV credits include “Elsbeth” and “Dexter.” The creative team also includes Director Mark Edward Lang (“Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise”), Costume Designer Sarah Constable, Production Designer Mark David Boberick and original music by Composer Chris Hajian, who has scored multiple feature films and documentaries.

“This a banner year not only for the country, as we near its 250th anniversary, but also for Cape May, which marks 175 years as a city and 50 years as a National Historic Landmark, a designation that includes our remarkable theater,” says Boberick. “‘Having Our Say’ is not merely a female or an African-American story, it is indeed an all-American story. To that end, East Lynne Theater Company is proud to kick off Season Forty-Six with ‘Having Our Say’.”

“Having Our Say” runs 7 p.m. Wednesdays to Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays from June 18 through July 19. Tickets are $40 general admission, $35 seniors, $25 students and military. Tickets to opening night ($45) include an after-party held at The Cricket Club. There will be a special 2 p.m. showing on July 4, and a preview night on June 17 ($25). The Clemans Theater for the Arts is located at 717 Franklin St. in Cape May. For tickets and information, go to EastLynneTheater.org.

About East Lynne Theater Company: Founded in 1980, East Lynne Theater Company has been named by “The New York Times” as one of the Top 75 summer theaters in North America and recognized by the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly as “one of the state’s most important cultural treasures.” In 2023, understanding that the American Theater is itself a growing work of art, East Lynne expanded its mission to “present and preserve America’s theatrical heritage” by including plays about America today. As of 2026, East Lynne continues to raise funds for its Capital Campaign to renovate its new home, the Clemans Theater for the Arts at Allen AME. As the company expands into the Clemans Theater, so does its calendar, which now offers year-round entertainment that includes plays and performances from worldwide writers, actors, musicians, and more. Go to EastLynneTheater.org.

Theater/Organization: EAST LYNNE THEATER COMPANY
Theater Address: CLEMANS THEATER FOR THE ARTS717 FRANKLIN STREET CAPE MAY, New Jersey 08204 (Map It)
Theater Phone:

An acclaimed headliner in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, Bugatti will bring his signature style to the stage in a captivating, story-driven journey through the history of jazz on Broadway. Having performed alongside legends such as Tony Bennett to Michel Legrand, Bugatti combines storytelling and song to illuminate the pivotal moments and timeless compositions that shaped jazz’s enduring influence on musical theater.

Bugatti has held residencies at iconic venues such as the Bellagio in Las Vegas, The Peninsula in Beverly Hills and Eau Resort in Palm Beach. Last year, Bugatti debuted his show “George Bugatti in “Broadway and All That Jazz”” written and produced by concert producer-creator Scott Siegel, at 54 Below in New York City. His New York show has been readapted and retitled for various performing arts venues, such as the Gateway, as “Broadway and All That Jazz,” where audiences can delight in Bugatti’s engaging stories about how many popular Broadway songs became part of the Great American Songbook.

Bugatti will perform with the grace, style and musical command these great songs deserve, and guide audiences through a rich legacy that celebrates the artistry and evolution of jazz on Broadway. He will focus on the music of iconic composers–think, George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Fats Waller, Cy Coleman, and Kander and Ebb–who infused the stage with rhythm, sophistication and soul, and created timeless music that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Bugatti will be accompanied by Musical Director Demetrios Pappas on piano, Andy Lalasis on bass and Bob Shomo on drums.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at GatewayByTheBay.org. The Gateway is located at 738 Bay Ave. in Somers Point. For more information go to SouthJerseyJazz.org or call (609) 289-0326.

About South Jersey Jazz Society: The South Jersey Jazz Society (SJJS) is a 501-(c)3 nonprofit that has been in existence since 2004. The organization offers year-round jazz events including its popular, annual jazz festival, a twice-monthly jazz series and much more. Each event features a variety of either national, regional or local jazz artists. SJJSalso offers scholarship opportunities to local South Jersey students and has donated over $30,000 to support music and arts programs in public schools. Go to SouthJerseyJazz.org for more.

###

Theater/Organization: SOUTH JERSEY JAZZ SOCIETY
Theater Address: GATEWAY PLAYHOUSE, 738 BAY AVENUE, SOMERS POINT, New Jersey 080244 (Map It)
Theater Phone: