Here's a look at plays on stages around the Garden State in March 2020. Remember to add your shows to the NJ Stage Event Calendar and send press releases to info@newjerseystage.com to be included here.
The Sunshine Boys - February 14 - March 1 at Centenary Stage Company, Hackettstown. Al and Willie as “Lewis and Clark” were top-billed vaudevillians for over forty years. Now they aren’t even speaking. When CBS requests them for a “History of Comedy” retrospective, a grudging reunion brings the two back together, along with a flood of memories, miseries, and laughs. Written by Neil Simon.
A Few Good Men - February 22 - March 1 at Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan. US Navy Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee, an unmotivated lawyer always looking for a plea bargain, is assigned to represent two marines on trial for the murder of another marine. Kaffee is joined by US Navy Lieutenant Commander Jo Galloway, who convinces him that the murder was ordered by a commanding officer. Instead of dropping the case, Kaffee goes on to call Colonel Nathan R. Jessep to the stand, in order to uncover the conspiracy. Kaffee takes a chance on Jessep, who yells the iconic line, “You can’t handle the truth!” The play was adapted into a 1992 film directed by Rob Reiner with a star-studded cast, including Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and Demi Moore.
She Loves Me - February 28 - March 22 at Broadway Theatre of Pitman, Pitman. She Loves Me, which has been praised as “possibly the most charming musical ever written,” was nominated for five Tony’s in 1964 and won Best Musical Revival in 1993. This romantic plot more recently inspired the movie You’ve Got Mail. Set in a 1930s European perfumery, we meet shop clerks, Amalia and Georg, who, more often than not, don’t see eye to eye. After both respond to a “lonely hearts advertisement” in the newspaper, they now live for the love letters that they exchange, but the identity of their admirers remains unknown. Join Amalia and Georg to discover the identity of their true loves... and of all the twists and turns along the way! Featuring captivating songs including, “Days Gone By,” “Three Letters” and “Try Me.”
A Year with Frog and Toad - February 29 - March 1 at Hackensack Performing Arts Center, Hackensack. Waking from hibernation in the Spring, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding and learn life lessons along the way. The two best friends celebrate and rejoice in the differences that make them unique and special. Part vaudeville, part make believe… all charm, A Year with Frog and Toad tells the story of a friendship that endures throughout the seasons. The jazzy, upbeat score of A Year with Frog and Toad bubbles with melody and wit, making it an inventive, exuberant and enchanting musical for the whole family. It is a perfect show to be performed by an ensemble group of actors and can be produced with either simple or extravagant staging and sets.
Be Here Now - February 20 - March 8 at Dreamcatcher Repertory Company, Summit. Surrounded by painfully cheerful co-workers, Bari is deeply cynical and woefully underemployed. After an unexpected and unexplainable turn of events, Bari finds herself on an enlightening new path. When she meets Mike, it’s her turn to pull another out of the darkness. Written by Deborah Zoe Laufer.
Till: A New Musical - February 27 - March 8 at American Theatre Group, South Orange. This stirring and powerful new musical is about Emmett Till, whose murder in 1955 helped ignite the civil rights movement. Written by Leo Schwartz and DC Cathro.
Five Times In One Night - February 19 - March 15 at Mile Square Theatre, Hoboken. A riotous comedy about what we talk about when we talk about sex. Through a quintet of comedic sketches, we see five different couples explore the joy, excitement, danger, disappointment, and hilarity that comes from our attempts at romance. From Adam and Eve to the only humans left in a post-apocalyptic planet, this is an insightful examination of intimacy through the ages.
Men are from Mars Women are from Venus - February 28 - March 1 at Avenel Performing Arts Center, Avenel. A one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up, and is a light-hearted theatrical comedy basedon John Gray’s book. Moving swiftly through a series of vignettes, the show covers everything from dating and marriage to the bedroom. This hysterical show will have couples elbowing each other all evening as they see themselves on stage. Sexy and fast paced, this show is definitely for adults.
Radio Golf - February 29 – March 22 at Two River Theater, Red Bank. Real-estate developer Harmond Wilks is determined to become the first black mayor of Pittsburgh, and to revitalize the Hill District. Starbucks, Barnes & Noble and Whole Foods are ready to move in. But one particular house on the development site, at 1839 Wylie Avenue, must be torn down, a casualty of urban blight. And that house belonged to Wilson’s legendary Aunt Ester—forcing Harmond, and the Hill District itself, into a battle between the past and the future
Mary Poppins Jr. - March 3 at Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank. Academy of the Arts presents an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs and breathtaking dance numbers. This show will showcase a strong, iconic female performer, as well as unique special effects and illusions.
The Imaginary Invalid - March 3-8 at William Paterson Hunziker Black Box Theatre, Wayne. This classic farce by Moliere shows us a well-known hypochondriac, obsessed with skyrocketing medical bills. Argan concocts a plan to marry his daughter to a doctor to solve his problems, but alas, she loves another. Toinette, the clever maid, demonstrates to her employer that the doctor is a charlatan and points out others who also seek to take advantage of him. Truth and love triumph as all troubles, real and imaginary, fade away with laughter.
Conscience - March 3-29 at George Street Playhouse, New Brunswick. On June 1, 1950, Senator Margaret Chase Smith stood on the Senate floor and delivered her “Declaration of Conscience ‘’ in a historic moment of political courage. This sharply written new play by Tony winner Joe DiPietro takes you behind the scenes of 1950s Washington in the days leading up to and following the singular speech that rattled McCarthyism, Congress, and the nation itself.
Finding Neverland - March 4-5 at Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank. This tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever.
Gemini - March 4-12 at Monmouth University, West Long Branch. The play is set in the backyard of two adjoining houses in the working class neighborhood of South Philadelphia. They are about to celebrate the 21st birthday of Francis Geminiani, a Harvard student, when two classmate friends from Harvard and Yale, Judith and Randy, show up unexpectedly. Since there isn’t a spare bedroom in either house they pitch a tent in the backyard. Francis’ classmates, the wealthy Judith seeks romance with Francis not realizing that her brother Randy is the object of Francis’ unexpressed affection. Each of the characters in the play are dysfunctional to some degree and their celebration of Francis’ birthday brings out the best of comedy and drama. The birthday party is a series of comic incidents that provide laughter and serious realizations that lead up to the final joyous ending.
The Lion In Winter - March 5-22 at Ritz Theatre Company, Haddon Township. This play by James Goldman, is a modern-day classic, reminiscent of Shakespeare. Comedic in tone, dramatic in action – it tells the story of the Plantagenet family, who are locked in a free-for-all of competing ambitions to inherit a kingdom. The queen, and wealthiest woman in the world, Eleanor of Aquitaine, has been kept in prison since raising an army against her husband, King Henry II. Let out only for holidays, the play centers around the inner conflicts of the royal family as they fight over both a kingdom and King Henry’s paramour during Christmas of 1183.
The Promotion - March 5 - April 5 at New Jersey Repertory Company, Long Branch. Trish and Josh are coworkers and good friends. When they’re both up for the same promotion, they’re pushed to their limits. Just how far are they willing to go to get ahead. A comedy about surviving in this dog-eat-dog world of business.
Finding Neverland - March 6-7 at Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. This tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever.
Lovers - March 6-15 at Grunin Center, Toms River. Ocean County College Repertory Theatre Company presents a play in two parts. The first section, titled “Winners,” follows the story of two teenage lovers, Joe and Mag, who are due to be married in three weeks. The second section, “Losers,” tell the story of middle aged lovers Hanna and Andy, who are trying to make their relationship work while Hanna’s family and neighbors disapprovingly intervene. Written by Brian Friel.
Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical - March 6-22 at Axelrod Performing Arts Center, Ocean Township. Matilda the Musical revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards including five Tony Awards. It is based on the popular children’s book of the same name by British writer Roald Dahl, best known for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Born to Learn: The Montessori Story - March 7 at Hopewell Theater, Hopewell. An original musical for all ages that celebrates the remarkable life of Dr. Maria Montessori. Originally commissioned in 2019 by the Princeton Montessori School in celebration of their 50th anniversary, Born To Learn: The Montessori Story brings audiences on an inspiring journey about Dr. Montessori’s life and the inspirations behind her groundbreaking work with children.
The Diary of Anne Frank (a staged reading) - March 11 at Hopewell Theater, Hopewell. One of the most famous and haunting stories to emerge from the 20th Century. The memoirs of this young Jewish girl, forced to hide for nearly two years to escape Nazi persecution, are an essential part of how we remember one of the darkest periods of human history.
Negative Space - March 13 at Hackensack Performing Arts Center, Hackensack. A rock&roll story about trying to make it in New York, partnership, and the catastrophe of success. It’s the early nineties in downtown Manhattan, before gentrification, before the demise of the infamous rock&roll dive CBGB. Hard-driving band Rivet Gun and their venerable lead singer Wilma engage clubgoers with their edgy, lyrically smart sound. But as the band’s following grows, Wilma loses her balance on the larger stage.
Sherlock Holmes: Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle - March 13-14 at East Lynne Theater Company, Cape May. This radio-style production is based on the story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted by Craig Wichman, Founder and Producer of Quicksilver Radio Theater.
Pinkalicious The Musical - March 13-29 at The Growing Stage, Netcong. This is the tale, based on the popular book by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann, of Pinkalicious, who can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe – a dream come true for this pink loving enthusiast. But when her hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this pink predicament. Pinkalicious the Musical is about learning the power of self-control and the importance of moderation.
Hooray for Lady Land! Gay History for Straight People! at March 14-23 Luna Stage, West Orange. Meet Leola, your favorite Kelly Clarkson-worshipping, senior citizen, redneck lesbian! Writer/performer/semi-redneck Will Nolan guides audiences through the complexities of the LGBTQYMCA+ community—everything from GAY to Z.
The Cat In The Hat - March 16 at Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. A boring, rainy afternoon turns into an amazing, mischievous and hilarious adventure when The Cat in the Hat comes calling. Ages 3 - 8.
Bandstand - March 17-18 at Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. From three-time Tony® winner and Hamilton choreographer, Andy Blankenbuehler, comes an inspiring new American musical that explodes with infectious music and high-octane, heart-stopping dancing. It’s 1945, and six soldiers return from war to a changed nation. When NBC announces a national competition to find the nation’s next great musical superstars, they form a band unlike any the nation has ever seen. Along the way, they discover the power of music to face the impossible, find their voice, and finally feel like they have a place to call home.
When We Went Electronic - March 19-April 5 at Art House Productions, Jersey City. Schools Out. It's 2008. Two Made in USA American Apparel (R) models search for their missing memory after a tragically fun night. But when really weird stuff starts happening, the girls begin to question the syntheticness of their own materials and if what they think happened was really real. Maybe last night wasn’t such a party after all. Literally. Written by Caitlin Saylor Stephens, with songs by Sarah Frances Cagianese and Caitlin Saylor Stephens. This is the play's NJ Premiere.
Next To Normal - March 20-21 at Hackensack Performing Arts Center, Hackensack. Next to Normal, with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Dad’s an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal because the mother has been battling manic depression for 16 years. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family’s story with love, sympathy and heart.
The Boys In The Band - March 20-22 at Levoy Theatre, Millville. One of the most groundbreaking plays of our time. Originally opening off-Broadway and recently revived with a starry Broadway production, this play centers on a group of gay men who gather in an NYC apartment for a friend’s birthday party. After the drinks are poured and the music is turned up, the evening slowly exposes the fault lines beneath their friendships and the self-inflicted heartache that threatens their solidarity. A true theatrical game-changer, it helped spark a revolution.
13 Jr. - March 20-29 at Hamilton Stage @ Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway. A hilarious, coming-of-age musical about discovering that “cool” is sometimes where we least expect it. Geek. Poser. Jock. Beauty Queen. Wannabe. These are the labels that can last a lifetime. With an unforgettable rock score from Tony Award-winning composer, Jason Robert Brown, 13 Jr is a musical about fitting in – and standing out!
The National Theatre of London: Cyrano de Bergerac - March 26 at Monmouth University, West Long Branch. James McAvoy stars in an inventive new adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac, broadcast live to theatres from the London’s West End. Fierce with a pen and notorious in combat, Cyrano almost has it all – if only he could win the heart of his true love Roxane. There’s just one big problem: he has a nose as huge as his heart. Will a society engulfed by narcissism get the better of Cyrano – or can his mastery of language set Roxane’s world alight?
Turning - March 26 - April 5 at Centenary Stage Company, Hackettstown. In the heart of 1930s Newark, a group of scrappy young women began to train in backyard gyms for what would become the experience of a lifetime. Playwright Darrah Cloud brings their stories, once lost to history, back to vibrant life in the new play “Turning”, as part of the NJ Stage Exchange Program, in collaboration with the New Jersey Theatre Alliance. Inspired by the real life stories of Hackettstown resident and 1st US Gymnastics Team member, Ada Lunardoni, team members Consetta Caruccio, Jennie Caputo, Margaret Duff, Irma Haubold, Marie Kibler, Adelaide Meyer, and Mary Wright, and the memoirs of Jesse Owens.
An Evening With Groucho - March 27 at Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. Award-winning actor and director Frank Ferrante ignites his PBS, New York and London acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx in this fast paced 90 minutes of hilarity. The two-act comedy consists of the funniest Groucho one-liners, anecdotes and songs including “Hooray for Captain Spalding,” and “Lydia, the Tattooed Lady.” The audience literally becomes part of the show as Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style. Accompanied by his onstage pianist, Ferrante portrays the young Groucho of stage and film and reacquaints us with the likes of brothers Harpo, Chico, Zeppo and Gummo, Charlie Chaplin, W.C. Fields and Marx foil Margaret Dumont.
Roebling: The Story of the Brooklyn Bridge - March 27 - April 5 at Theater at the Valley of Central Jersey AASR, Bordentown. A drama about the immense challenges faced by the Roebling Family in their dedication to building the Brooklyn Bridge, truly one of the most endearing and enduring engineering feats in the world. In building such a true American Icon, John Roebling and his son Washington persevered against all odds. When adversity called into question the success of the project and all hope seemed to be lost, Emily Roebling, in challenging the accepted role of women, became the culminating force in completing the bridge. This is truly a story of innovation, dedication, perseverance and family. Emily Roebling’s story is a perfect one to tell this Women’s History Month.
How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying - March 27 - April 5 at Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan. Based on Shepherd Mead’s book of the same name, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying follows the young, ambitious J. Pierrepont Finch, as he searches for a job at the World Wide Wicket Company. The story focuses on Finch’s struggle to enter the business world, following the advice of a book he reads while working.
Assisted Living: The Musical - March 28 at Grunin Center, Toms River. Forget everything your granny told you about Assisted Living! Assisted Living: The Musical® is a 75-minute, one-act vaudevillian revue filled with original songs. It delivers laughs from the opening scene, when the show’s host couple enters heaven, suspecting their son pulled the plug to get his hands on Dad’s vintage Corvette. They don’t seem to mind. Instead, the couple fondly remembers Pelican Roost, an active, full-service retirement community, where 70-something is the new 20-something, and they party like it’s 1969!
NY Gilbert & Sullivan: The Pirates of Penzance - March 28 at Stockton Performing Arts Center, Galloway. Doing one’s duty may be honorable, but becoming its slave to the point of honoring an apprenticeship to a band of pirates, is a typical Gilbertian comment on excess. Frederic is the erstwhile apprentice of these sentimental pirates who, now that he is 21 years old, has decided to devote himself to the extermination of piracy.
