New Brunswick is a cultural epicenter for those looking for art, music, dance, and theatre. Three performing arts theaters boast year-round shows, and Rutgers University showcases some of the freshest talents in the area. The plethora of cultural offerings in the area makes any trip exciting to plan, as you can find an event for every taste and style. Here’s a roundup of this season’s upcoming events across three of New Brunswick’s top venues.
The State Theatre
This is the go-to spot for the history buff, as The State Theatre boasts beautiful 1921 architecture that echoes its famous vaudeville past. Today, you can see a diverse range of Broadway, comedy, dance, and family entertainment hit the stage. Upcoming shows include Gladys Knight, Finding Neverland, Johnny Mathis, and Chicago.
Our Highlight: The theater also offers autism-friendly relaxed performances focusing on high-quality entertainment in a safe, sensory-friendly environment.
George Street Playhouse
If you want to see classic and breakthrough dramas unravel on stage, then the George Street Playhouse is for you. Its intimate stage features five plays during this season, which highlight today’s up and coming playwrights, some of which have been recognized by the Tony Awards and the Laurents/Hatcher Foundation.
Our Highlight: In award-winning Too Heavy for Your Pocket, travel back to 1961 and follow the journey of 20-year old Bowzie Brandon as he trades in his college scholarship to join the Freedom Riders as they embark into the Deep South.
Crossroads Theatre Company
Step inside the nation’s premier African American theatre, dubbed “Outstanding Regional Theatre in the United States” by the Tony Awards in 1999. The theatre company dedicates itself conveying a true representation of the African American experience through the examination of literary works in its four-play season.
Our Highlight: Dive into the life and musical stylings of a jazz great in Duke Ellington’s Sophisticated Ladies, a 1981 Tony award-winning Broadway hit.
Stay in the Heart of the City
Our top pick for accommodation in the area is The Heldrich, with its classy and elegant atmosphere and stunning suites. Not only is it near the best performing arts centers, but there are over 20 Zagat rated restaurants nearby to pick from for a pre-show bite.
