(BELMAR, NJ) — New Jersey Stage magazine wrapped up its first year of publishing with one of its largest issues to date. The digital magazine, which combines the best features of the web (audio, video, interaction) with the look and feel of a traditional publication is available for free at www.NJArtsMag.com. Unlike many digital magazines, there is no print version. It is solely designed to be read on any PC, tablet, or smartphone without the need to scroll or zoom in.
This month’s cover story is an interview with Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, who are coming to BergenPAC and will be among the performers at the XPoNential Festival in Camden, NJ in July. The interview talks about the band’s early days during the time when college radio was at its peak and independent media and indie record stores helped break bands. A second interview with Ray on her thoughts of how racism plays a central role in many of the activist causes she supports can be found at NewJerseyStage.com.
The issue contains features on New Jersey Repertory Company, its latest world premiere - Closure by Richard Dresser - and how this tiny Jersey Shore theatre continues to lure stars like Wendie Malick and Gary Cole; Mr. Lincoln at East Lynne Theater Company; One Man Star Wars by Charles Ross; a look at several outdoor theatre shows taking place this summer; and takes you inside the art of Peter Max who is bringing a new exhibit to Stone Harbor, NJ.
There are film reviews of Big Game and Jurassic World; plus a feature on the independent film Dream On that examines whether or not the American Dream is still with us; and a look at Hollywood reboots, sequels and selfies, and how the selfie culture created a cinematic monster.
Music-wise, New Jersey Stage goes inside the second act for Donny Most (Ralph Malph on Happy Days) who is touring the area as a jazz singer; interviews Gordon Brown (Williams Honor, Highway 9) about the art of songwriting; and presents Beecher’s Fault as the featured music video of the month. Sights and Sounds of Note profiles several new releases and Rosemary Conte’s Inside Music column revisits the idea of musician-based jokes.
All issues of New Jersey Stage are available for free at http://www.njartsmag.com. The magazine can also be downloaded and read offline.
