NJPAC Outside.jpg
More than 150 shows were announced Friday for the New Jersey Performing Arts Center's 20th anniversary. (Photo courtesy of Prana Marketing)
NEWARK -- As New Jersey Performing Arts Center celebrates its 20th year in Newark, the venue is poised to present what its executives describe as the most diverse, and busiest year to date.
NJPAC announces this weekend not only its loaded 2017-18 season schedule -- a lineup loaded with classical, dance, world and popular music, family events and more -- but a branding change that President and CEO John Schreiber hopes will keep the venue "more top-of-mind" for local arts lovers.
"It's a function of how varied and broad we are as a presenter," Schreiber says. "We are on television now, we are in our own theaters, we're in schools and community centers, we are across the country with our touring productions and we're in arenas with NJPAC productions. So we wanted to give the public a chance through a new identity -- that we think is bold and engaging and fun -- to make that connection."
New branding for New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.
More than 150 new events at the arts center are listed below, and another 125 will be announced throughout the season, but first check out these seven must-sees at NJPAC, as chosen by us, Schreiber and Executive Vice President and Executive Producer David Rodriguez, who promises: "No matter what, there's something for you at NJPAC."
THE MUST-SEES
Bill Clinton highlights the New Jersey Speaker Series
One of NJPAC's most varied and anticipated series returns with a new slate of transcendent lecturers for the 2017-18 season. Former President Bill Clinton will visit Newark next Spring for a lecture and Q&A session, leading a list of visitors that includes U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron, esteemed legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin, journalist Robin Wright and more. "I don't think there's a more interesting time in our American political history than right now, to hear what these people have to say about what's going on in the world is going to be especially useful," Schreiber adds. April 12 at 8 p.m., Full series tickets: $275-475, provides access to each of seven events.
Bill Clinton will visit NJPAC for a lecture and Q&A next year. (John O'Boyle for NJ Advance Media)
Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie tribute at TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Forged by NJPAC's artistic director and renowned jazz bassist Christian McBride, the jewel of the annual jazz fest will be a centennial celebration of Ella and Dizzy's tremendous careers. "We have gotten the original Ella Fitzgerald songbook arrangements," Schreiber says. "These are legendary arrangements, and (McBride) and his big band are going to play them for the singers, which is very cool." Vocalists include Gregory Porter, Lizz Wright, Regina Carter, Valerie Simpson, Randy Brecker and Sean Jones. Nov. 12 at 7 p.m.; tickets $25-79
NJPAC artistic director Christian McBride will lead a big band tribute to Ella and Dizzy in November. (Ed Murray/The Star-Ledger)
Yo-Yo Ma leads stellar classical bill
Yo-Yo Ma, the globally renowned Chinese cellist comes to the Brick City on the heels of his Oscar-nominated documentary "The Music of Strangers" and his Grammy-winning album "Sing Me Home." Ma is joined by his hand-chosen Silk Road Ensemble, an international powerhouse of classical prowess. Also on the classical bill this season will be a rare two-violin recital between venerable players Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman. "Classical music is a significant part of our programming and the hall was really built as an acoustically superb concert hall," Schreiber says. "It's one of the finest concert halls in the world and so I think this is our finest classical season since we opened." Yo-Yo Ma and The Silk Road Ensemble: April 8 at 3 p.m.; $24-119. Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman: Nov. 18 at 7:30 p.m.; $24-$109.
Yo-Yo Ma, the globally renowned Chinese cellist comes to the Brick City. (Photo by Andy Mettler)
The evolution of "The Nutcracker"
When the holiday rolls around NJPAC will offer two terrific "Nutcracker" performances from each end of the production's storied spectrum. First, the increasingly popular and original to NJPAC "Hip-Hop Nutcracker," emceed by Kurtis Blow, returns for a mashup of rap choreography and Tchiakovsky's score. And the next day the State Ballet of Russia brings the classical production to life, with 65 dancers providing a pristine performance of the Christmas tale. Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.; Tickets $29-79. Dec. 16 at 3 p.m.; Tickets $29-79.
The "Hip-Hop Nutcracker" holiday show returns to NJPAC in December. (Photo courtesy of Prana Marketing)
Guitar gods Herring and McLaughlin join forces
Also within the Moody Jazz program this year is the pairing of guitar greats John McLaughlin, of Mahavishnu Orchestra, and Jimmy Herring of Widespread Panic. Each virtuoso will deliver a solo set before coming together to perform the music of Mahavishnu Orchestra -- McLaughlin's last tour of the seminal jazz-rock fusion tunes. Expect this "Meeting of the Spirits Farewell Tour" to blow your mind. Nov. 10 at 8 p.m.; Tickets $25-79.
Broadway's "Ain't Misbehavin'" revived in Newark
The 1978 Tony Award winner for Best Musical will transform NJPAC's Victoria Hall into a celebration of the Harlem Renaissance and the great African-American singers of the 1920s and '30s. Original cast member Andre DeShields directs the production performed by the Crossroads Theatre Company, based in New Brunswick. "Andre DeShields is brilliantly talented and someone you want in the building," Schreiber says. Feb. 1-2, 8 p.m.; Feb. 3-4, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets $59-89.
The 1978 Tony winner for best musical "Ain't Misbehavin'" visits NJPAC for four nights. (Photo courtesy of Prana Marketing)
"Paw Patrol Live!" and more family fun
If you have young children you know the frenzied popularity of the animated Nick Jr. TV show "Paw Patrol," which em-"barks" on its first-ever live tour and visits Newark this weekend. Ryder and the rescue dogs are set to unleash an action-packed show. "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood LIVE!" based off the hit PBS series also comes through this season. "Paw Patrol Live!" Dec. 9, 10 a.m., 2 and 6 p.m.; Tickets $23-74.
THE FULL LIST
SUMMER 2017
Felix Hernandez's Rhythm Revue Dance Party
Thursday, July 6 / 5 p.m.
Felix Hernandez is the popular host of "Rhythm Revue," now in its 31st year on the New York area airwaves. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Jon B.
Thursday, July 13 / 5 p.m.
This Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter ("Someone to Love") specializes in a distinctive brand of soul and R&B. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
"Bring It LIVE!"
Thursday, July 13 / 8 p.m.
Fans of the Lifetime series get a chance to be part of the action when Miss D and her Dancing Dolls perform new routines!
Prudential Hall / $29.75 - $49.75
Jill Scott
Saturday, July 15 / 8 p.m.
This R&B singer-songwriter, a three-time Grammy winner, performs "He Loves Me (Lyzel in E Flat)," "Fool's Gold" and other hits.
Prudential Hall / $50 -$125
Kurtis Blow / Universal Hip Hop Museum
Thursday, July 20 / 5 p.m.
Hip-hop pioneer Kurtis Blow arrives with his group, dedicated to inspiring audiences through the power of hip-hop. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Beres Hammond / Marcia Griffiths / Third World
Saturday, July 22 / 8 p.m.
The reggae sensation, known for his romantic "lovers rock," appears with the phenomenal Marcia Griffiths and Third World. Part of the World Music Series sponsored by American Express.
Prudential Hall / $59 - $119
Septeto Santiaguero
Thursday, July 27 / 5 p.m.
The dance floor is sure to heat up with the arrival of one of Cuba's most essential bands. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Tower of Power with special guest Michael Colton
Thursday, Aug. 3 / 5 p.m.
This R&B-based band is known for a groove-based brand of urban soul music that borrows from jazz and funk. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Louis Prima, Jr. & The Witnesses
Thursday, Aug. 10 / 5 p.m.
Backed by a swinging eight-piece band, singer Louis Prima, Jr. continues the boisterous jazz tradition of his famous father. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Black Sheep / Das EFX
Thursday, Aug. 17 / 5 p.m.
One night with two of the hottest duos in hip-hop. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
Talib Kweli
Thursday, Aug. 24 / 5 p.m.
This acclaimed rapper's outings as a solo artist include collaborations with Kanye West, Just Blaze and Pharrell Williams. Part of the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City outdoor concert series
Theater Square / FREE
SEPTEMBER 2017
Erykah Badu
Friday, Sept. 15 / 8 p.m.
For two decades, this Grammy-winning singer and songwriter has been one of the most distinctive artists in R&B and neo-soul. Part of the Horizon Foundation Concert Series
Prudential Hall / $55-$125
John Cleese: "Monty Python and the Holy Grail"
Sunday, Sept. 24 / 3 p.m.
A screening of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," followed by unbridled fun with comic mastermind John Cleese.
Prudential Hall / $49 -$99
Newark History Society: "Over There: Newarkers in the Great War"
Monday, Sept. 25 / 6 p.m.
Discussion with John Zinn, president of the New Jersey Historical Society
The Chase Room / FREE
YES: John Anderson, Trevor Rabin, Rick Wakeman
Wednesday, Sept. 27 / 7:30 p.m.
A night of YES hits with 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman.
Prudential Hall / $49-$129
OCTOBER 2017
The Temptations / The Four Tops
Friday, Oct. 6 / 8 p.m.
"My Girl," "Baby, I Need Your Loving" and more classic soul hits with two Grammy-winning legends.
Prudential Hall / $39-$79
An Evening with Patrizio Buanne
Saturday, Oct. 7 / 8 p.m.
Due to huge popular demand, straight from Europe: Patrizio Buanne.
Victoria Theater / $49.50
David Cameron
Thursday, Oct. 12
Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (2010-2016). Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
"The Price is Right LIVE!"
Friday, Oct. 13 / 8 p.m.
An interactive stage show that captures the frenzied fun of the hit game show with a chance to win big-ticket prizes.
Prudential Hall / $39 -$59
"Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood LIVE!"
Saturday, Oct. 14 / 2 and 5:30 p.m.
The award-winning, animated PBS KIDS series springs to life in this interactive, musical adventure for young audiences.
Prudential Hall / $29-$49
"The Ultimate Queen Celebration" starring Marc Martel
Friday, Oct. 20 / 8 p.m.
Get ready to rock with the greatest Freddie Mercury voice on the planet when "The Ultimate Queen Celebration" incorporates nearly two dozen of the band's hits: "Fat Bottomed Girls," "Somebody to Love," "Bohemian Rhapsody," and more.
Prudential Hall / $39-$59
Orpheus Chamber Orchestra / Andre Watts, piano
Sunday, Oct. 22 / 3 p.m.
Cherubini: Overture
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 9, K.271 ("Jeunehomme")
Beethoven: Symphony No. 1
Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$89
Jazz House Kids Turns 15! Star-Studded Concert and Dinner
Tuesday, Oct. 24 / 7 p.m.
Christian McBride leads an all-star lineup to celebrate 15 years of music education. Part of the TD Bank Jazz Series
Prudential Hall / On sale June 10
Tango Buenos Aires
Thursday, Oct. 26 / 7:30 p.m.
From the producers of Broadway's "Tango Argentino," a soulful and passionate celebration of the Argentinian tango.
Prudential Hall / $29-$69
"Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets In Concert"
Saturday, Oct. 28 / 2 p.m.
This unforgettable concert will feature the full-length film, with composer John Williams' thrilling score performed live by the NJSO. Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $35-$89
"The Wizard and I: The Stephen Schwartz Songbook"
Saturday, Oct. 28 / 6 and 8:30 p.m.
Some of Broadway's brightest stars - Darius DeHaas, Jessica Hendy and Kelli Rabke - perform Stephen Schwartz's biggest hits. ("Godspell," "Pippin," "Wicked").
The Chase Room / $50-$70
NOVEMBER 2017
Jeffrey Toobin
Thursday, Nov. 2 / 8 p.m.
Supreme Court expert and esteemed legal analyst. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
Alton Brown: "Eat Your Science"
Friday, Nov. 3 / 7 p.m.
The host of Food Network's "Cutthroat Kitchen" blends science, music and food into delicious entertainment.
Prudential Hall / $39.50-$79.50
Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Band featuring Terrell Stafford
Saturday, Nov. 4 / 6 p.m.
Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Bethany Baptist Church, 275 W. Market St. / FREE
Manhattan Transfer
Saturday, Nov. 4 / 7:30 p.m.
Famed Grammy-winning vocal quartet performs swing, standards and pop. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $69-$89
Hiromi / Edmar Castaneda
Sunday, Nov. 5 / 3 p.m.
Keyboardist Hiromi creates spellbinding music with virtuoso Colombian harpist Edmar Casteneda. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $49-$59
Crosscurrents: Zakir Hussain / Dave Holland / Shankar Mahadevan and others
Sunday, Nov. 5 / 7 p.m.
The music of India melds with the energy of jazz. Also featuring Chris Potter, Sanjay Divecha, Louiz Banks and Gino Banks. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $29-$79
WBGO-Jazz 88.3FM Presents Carrie Jackson
Wednesday, Nov. 8 / Noon
Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Gateway Center II / FREE
An Evening with Chris Botti
Wednesday, Nov. 8 / 7:30 p.m.
One of the leading innovators of jazz and contemporary music returns to NJPAC. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $29-$79
Christian Mc Bride & Dianne Reeves: "One on One"
Friday, Nov. 10 / 7:30 p.m.
Don't miss this meeting of two superstars of contemporary jazz. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $59
John McLaughlin & Jimmy Herring: "Meeting of the Spirits Farewell Tour"
Friday, Nov. 10 / 8 p.m.
Guitar legends John McLaughlin and Widespread Panic's Jimmy Herring join forces - each artist in separate sets followed by a performance of music of the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $25-$79
Camille Thurman & The Darrell Green Trio
Saturday, Nov. 11 / 1:30 p.m.
NJPAC and WBGO Jazz 88.3FM host this jazz performance featuring rising saxophonist-vocalist Camille Thurman and The Darrell Green Trio, a unit led by the acclaimed drummer. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / FREE
Grupo Niche
Saturday, Nov. 11 / 8 p.m.
Latin jazz with the world-famous salsa masters of Grupo Niche and special guests. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $49-$99
Dorthaan's Place Jazz Brunch: Kevin Mahogany
Sunday, Nov. 12 / 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
The standard-setter for jazz vocalists performs gutbucket to gospel, Mingus to Motown. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
NICO Kitchen + Bar at NJPAC / Adult $45, child $15
Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition
Sunday, Nov. 12 / 3 p.m.
Five finalists in performance at the sixth annual "SASSY Awards," with guest judges including TS Monk, Ann Hampton Callaway, Will Downing, Vanessa Rubin and WBGO's Gary Walker. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Victoria Theater / $29-$39
"Ella & Dizzy: The Centennial Celebration"
Sunday, Nov. 12 / 7 p.m.
Gregory Porter, Lizz Wright, Regina Carter, Valerie Simpson, Randy Brecker, Sean Jones and the Christian McBride Big Band salute Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie and celebrate the Ella songbook on her centennial. Part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival
Prudential Hall / $25-$79
Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band
Thursday, Nov. 16 / 7:30 p.m.
A rollicking concert of classic rock'n'roll with Todd Rundgren (Utopia), Gregg Rolie (Journey), Steve Lukather (Toto), Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Warren Ham (Bloodrock) and Gregg Bissonette. Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $49-$179
NJMEA All-State Jazz Band and Honors Choir Concert
Friday, Nov. 17 / 7 p.m.
The best young jazz musicians in N.J. gather for a dynamic group performance with special guest Wallace Roney. Part of the TD Bank Jazz Series
The Chase Room / Adult $30, child $13
"Scarf Diaries"
Saturday, Nov. 18 / 3 and 7 p.m.
This one-woman play, written and directed by Antoinette Ellis-Williams, uses scarves as conduits for complex narratives about religion, culture, sexuality and more.
The Chase Room / $49
Itzhak Perlman / Pinchas Zukerman
Saturday, Nov. 18 / 7:30 p.m.
A rare joint recital -- two of the greatest violinists of our time, perhaps of all time -- in one of the classical season's hottest tickets! Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$109
"Kenyatta" / Trilogy - An Opera Company
Sunday, Nov. 19 / 7 p.m.
Kevin Maynor sings the title role in this new opera by New Jersey composer Trent Johnson, based on the life of Jomo Kenyatta, the inspirational first president of the Republic of Kenya. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Victoria Theater / $44-$54
Cokie Roberts
Thursday, Nov. 30 / 8 p.m.
Journalist and author. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
DECEMBER 2017
"Irving Berlin Songbook": Robert Kimball, Marlene VerPlanck
Sunday, Dec. 3 / 3 p.m.
One of the greatest songwriters is celebrated by musical theater historian Robert Kimball and vocalist Marlene VerPlanck.
The Chase Room / $50-$70
An Evening with Savion Glover
Thursday, Dec. 7 / 7 p.m.
A premier event from the Tony-winning tap master behind "Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk" and "Shuffle Along."
Prudential Hall / $69-$89
"PAW Patrol Live!"
Saturday, Dec. 9 / 10 a.m. and 2 and 6 p.m.
Ryder and the rescue dogs of Nick Jr.'s hit animated series "PAW Patrol" are on a roll with their action-packed, first-ever live tour!
Prudential Hall / $23-$74
"PAW Patrol Live!"
Sunday, Dec. 10 / 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $23-$74
"The Hip Hop Nutcracker" with special guest MC Kurtis Blow
Friday, Dec. 15 / 7 p.m.
NJPAC's original holiday mash-up for the family sets Tchaikovsky's timeless score to explosive hip-hop choreography. Directed and choreographed by Jennifer Weber.
Prudential Hall / $29-$79
NJPAC Kwanzaa Children's Festival
Saturday, Dec. 16 / 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Celebrate the Nguzo Saba at NJPAC's 19th annual Kwanzaa Children's Festival and marketplace, featuring an Arts and Crafts Village and music and dance activities.
Various NJPAC locations / FREE
Forces of Nature Dance Theatre: "A Kwanzaa Celebration"
Saturday, Dec. 16 / 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Celebrate Kwanzaa festivities with this daring dance company and poets Ntozake Shange and Sonia Sanchez.
Victoria Theater / $29-$45
"The Nutcracker" / State Ballet Theatre of Russia
Saturday, Dec. 16 / 3 p.m.
This incomparable company of over 65 dancers arrives with a sumptuous staging of Tchaikovsky's beloved holiday classic as originally staged at Moscow's Mariinsky Theater.
Prudential Hall / $29-$79
Handel's "Messiah" / New Jersey Symphony Orchestra
Sunday, Dec. 17 / 3 p.m.
Xian Zhang conducts her first NJSO "Messiah," with a marvelous quartet of soloists and the superb Montclair State University Singers, adding her remarkable sensibility and style to this adored treasure. Presented in collaboration with the NJSO. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$89
Michael Carbonaro
Saturday, Dec. 30 / 7 p.m.
ON SALE JUNE 2
Back by popular demand: mind-blowing magic and outrageous comedy with the star of truTV's "The Carbonaro Effect"
Prudential Hall / $39-$79
JANUARY 2018
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Friday, Jan. 12 / 8 p.m.
Celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at NJPAC's annual musical tribute. Sponsored by PSEG Foundation.
Prudential Hall / Prices to come
"Embodying the Dream" / MLK Celebration
Saturday, Jan. 13 / 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
NJPAC's annual free celebration of the life and message of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for children and their families will convey the essence of Dr. King's dream through performing arts workshops and activities.
Various NJPAC locations / FREE
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra / Pinchas Zukerman, conductor and violin
Saturday, Jan. 20 / 8 p.m.
Weber: Overture to Der Freischutz
Beethoven: Violin Concerto
Dvorak: Symphony No. 7
Both sides of Zukerman's talent will be on full display in a program that includes Dvorak's spirited Seventh Symphony and Beethoven's brilliant Violin Concerto. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$99
Vic DiBitetto
Friday, Jan. 26 / 8 p.m.
The frenetic, fantastic comedian, a grand prize winner on "America's Funniest People," offers his funny takes on daily life.
Victoria Theater / $39.50
Vic DiBitetto
Saturday, Jan. 27 / 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $39.50
Travis Wall's Shaping Sound
Sunday, Jan. 28 / 6 p.m.
"After the Curtain," an all-new production, led by Emmy-winning choreographer Travis Wall of "So You Think You Can Dance."
Prudential Hall / $39-$89
FEBRUARY 2018
Robin Wright
Thursday, Feb. 1 / 8 p.m.
Middle East expert, award-winning journalist and author. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Thursday, Feb. 1 / 8 p.m.
Experience the glory of the Harlem Renaissance in the Broadway hit that brims with "contagious energy" (The New York Times). Directed by Andre DeShields.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89
"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Friday, Feb. 2 / 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89
"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Saturday, Feb. 3 / 3 and 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89
"Ain't Misbehavin'"
Sunday, Feb. 4 / 3 and 8 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59-$89
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: "Year of the Dog"
Saturday, Feb. 10 / 2 p.m.
Nai-Ni Chen and her amazing dancers, musicians and acrobats present a fantastic celebration of the lunar Year of the Dog.
Victoria Theater / Adult $27-$35, child $17
"My Funny Valentine" with Marin Mazzie & Jason Danieley
Saturday, Feb. 10 / 6 and 8:30 p.m.
The duo present songs from their most romantic roles, including "Ragtime," "Kiss Me, Kate" and "The Full Monty."
The Chase Room / $50-$70
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: "Year of the Dog"
Sunday, Feb. 11 / 2 p.m.
Victoria Theater / Adult $27-$35, child $17
"Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus LIVE!"
Saturday, Feb. 17 / 3 and 8 p.m.
A hilarious, one-man fusion of theater and stand-up, based on John Gray's bestseller.
Victoria Theater / $59
"Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus LIVE!"
Sunday, Feb. 18 / 2 and 6:30 p.m.
Victoria Theater / $59
Rick Steves
Thursday, Feb. 22 / 8 p.m.
Author, television host and European travel guide. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
MARCH 2018
Lightwire Theater: "Moon Mouse, A Space Odyssey"
Saturday, March 3 / 2 p.m.
Join Marvin the mouse on the space adventure of a lifetime in Lightwire Theater's glow-in-the-dark experience!
Victoria Theater / Adult $25, child $13
Newark History Society: "The Activist Collector: An African-American Woman's Journey from Newark to Pre-Apartheid South Africa"
Monday, March 5 / 6 p.m.
Discussion with Christa Clarke of the W.E.B. DuBois Institute at Harvard about path-breaking collector Lida Clanton Broner.
The Chase Room / FREE
An Evening with Donna McKechnie and Andrea McArdle
Saturday, March 10 / 6 and 8:30 p.m.
Tony winner McKechnie and McArdle come together to perform the inimitable songs of Marvin Hamlisch and Stephen Sondheim.
The Chase Room / $50-$70
"Broadway's Best" with Seth Rudetsky
Friday, March 16 / 7:30 p.m.
SiriusXM Radio's "On Broadway" host, and star-creator of Broadway's "Disaster! The Musical," is back with Broadway's best!
Victoria Theater / $59-$69
Popovich Comedy Pet Theater
Saturday, March 17 / 1 and 5 p.m.
Juggling, comedy and more with Moscow Circus veteran Gregory Popovich and his talented performing pets.
Victoria Theater / $39
Academy of St Martin in the Fields / Joshua Bell, conductor and violin
Sunday, March 18 / 3 p.m.
Mendelssohn: Overture to "A Midsummer Night's Dream"
Wieniawski: Violin Concerto No. 2
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6 ("Pastoral")
Joshua Bell leads the Academy of St Martin in the Fields in Beethoven's poetic "Pastoral" Symphony--and performs one of the great Romantic showpieces for violin and orchestra, Wieniaswski's Second Violin Concerto. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$109
Paul Nicklen
Thursday, March 22 / 8 p.m.
Award-winning National Geographic photographer. Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba / Enrique Perez-Mesa, conductor
Friday, March 23 / 8 p.m.
Ravel: Bolero
Da Falla: Suites 1 & 2 from "The Three-Cornered Hat"
Gramatges: Serenade for Strings
Roldan: La Rebambaramba
On its first U.S. tour in five years, the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba makes its NJPAC debut with a Latin-flavored and dance-inspired program that includes Ravel's Bolero. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$89
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company with the Ahn Trio
Saturday, March 24 / 7:30 p.m.
The exquisite dancers from New Jersey's own Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company join forces with the world-renowned Ahn Trio, three Korean-American sisters known for their unique spin on the piano trio.
Victoria Theater / $45-$55
Celtic Woman
Saturday, March 24 / 8 p.m.
This inspirational, all-female, Irish musical ensemble has become a favorite on PBS as well as on music charts around the globe. Part of the Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $45-$125
APRIL 2018
Russian National Ballet: "Sleeping Beauty"
Saturday, April 7 / 8 p.m.
Direct from Moscow, a stunning traditional staging of Tchaikovsky's cherished fairy tale, sure to delight all ages.
Prudential Hall / $29-$69
Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma
Sunday, April 8 / 3 p.m.
Yo-Yo Ma returns with his one-of-a-kind world music collective that The Los Angeles Times describes as "uninhibitedly joyous!" Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$119
President Bill Clinton
Thursday, April 12 / 8 p.m.
42nd President of the United States (1993-2001). Part of the New Jersey Speakers Series
Prudential Hall / Series $275-$475 +
Johnny Mathis: "The Voice of Romance Tour 2018"
Saturday, April 13 / 8 p.m.
ON SALE JUNE 9
An American music icon returns with a concert drawn from his long list of timeless hits: "Misty," "Chances Are," "Twelfth of Never," and so many more.
Prudential Hall / $38-$124
Jersey Moves! Festival of Dance: Carolyn Dorfman Dance
Saturday, April 14 / 7 p.m.
Celebrate Carolyn Dorfman Dance and 35 years of bold, powerful and thrilling performance and dancemaking!
Victoria Theater / $30-$45
"Let It Be: A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles"
Sunday, April 15 / 3 p.m.
Live Beatles tribute, as seen on Broadway, packed with over 40 Beatles' hits, classified as "outstanding ... by far the best Beatles show yet" by The New York Times. Part of the Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $39-$69
Newark History Society: "The Rise (and Fall) of German Newark"
Monday, April 16 / 6 p.m.
A panel discussion with Natalie Borisovets (Rutgers-Newark), Dan O'Flaherty (Columbia University) and Petra Moser (NYU)
The Chase Room / FREE
Shen Yun Performing Arts
Friday, April 27 / 8 p.m.
Shen Yun brings a lost civilization to life through richly expressive classical Chinese dance, music and spectacle.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
"BRIGHT MOMENTS! Celebrating Dorthaan Kirk at 80"
Saturday, April 28 / 7:30 p.m.
A top-notch lineup of jazz artists, including Cassandra Wilson, Jimmy Heath, Geri Allen and others, under the musical direction of Don Braden, convenes to celebrate WBGO co-founder Dorthaan Kirk, "Newark's First Lady of Jazz." Part of the TD Bank Jazz Series
Victoria Theater / $69 - $79
Shen Yun Performing Arts
Saturday, April 28 / 2 and 7 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
Shen Yun Performing Arts
Sunday, April 29 / 2 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
MAY 2018
Shen Yun Performing Arts
Wednesday, May 2 / 8 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
Shen Yun Performing Arts
Thursday, May 3 / 2 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $84-$204
London Symphony Orchestra / Sir Simon Rattle, conductor
Saturday, May 5 / 2 p.m.
Mahler: Symphony No. 9
The London Symphony Orchestra's first tour under its new leader, Sir Simon Rattle, brings a program devoted to Gustav Mahler's monumental Symphony No. 9: the composer's final symphony, and arguably his greatest achievement. Part of the Bank of America Classical Series
Prudential Hall / $24-$109
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Friday, May 11 / 8 p.m.
Elegant, electrifying and marvelously athletic, this always dazzling company returns with new works and classics featuring "Revelations."
Prudential Hall / $25-$89
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Saturday, May 12 / 8 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $25-$89
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Sunday, May 13 / 3 p.m.
Prudential Hall / $25-$89
JUNE 2018
Audra McDonald
Sunday, June 3 / 3 p.m.
The six-time Tony Award winner, one of Broadway's brightest stars, returns with an evening of magical music. Bank of America Headliner Series.
Prudential Hall / $25-$79
"Jersey (NEW) Moves! Emerging Choreographers"
Friday, June 15 / 8 p.m.
The fourth annual edition of this Garden State showcase features five of New Jersey's best up-and-coming choreographers
Victoria Theater / $34 b the Geraldine
Bobby Olivier may be reached at bolivier@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BobbyOlivier and Facebook. Find NJ.com on Facebook.