Published by New Jersey Stage
originally published: 11/18/2023

Photo by Michael Franken
(MANASQUAN, NJ) -- Algonquin Arts Theatre (Pamela Ward-Executive Director), a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Manasquan, has emerged triumphant as the recipient of the prestigious Asbury Park Press 2023 Best of the Best Award for Live Theater in Monmouth County. This accolade serves as a testament to the theatre's unwavering commitment to excellence in the performing arts and its dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of the community.
The Asbury Park Press Best of the Best Awards are highly coveted, celebrating businesses and organizations that consistently deliver outstanding service and leave an indelible mark on the community they serve. Algonquin Arts Theatre's recognition in the Live Theater category underscores its status as a premier destination for patrons seeking exceptional live performances.
Known for its captivating productions, innovative programming, world-class arts education initiatives and commitment to fostering artistic expression, Algonquin Arts Theatre has been a pillar of the local arts scene for years. This award is a reflection of the hard work and passion exhibited by the theatre's talented team, including actors, directors, musicians, crew, board and staff.
Photo by Michael Franken
"We are thrilled and honored to receive the Asbury Park Press Best of the Best award for Live Theater," said Pamela Ward, Executive Director at Algonquin Arts Theatre. "This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our team and the continued support of our patrons. We believe in the transformative power of the arts, and this award motivates us to continue bringing exceptional live performances and arts education to our community."
Algonquin Arts Theatre has become synonymous with quality entertainment, offering a diverse range of productions that cater to a broad audience. From classic plays to contemporary musicals, from orchestra to jazz, the theatre has consistently raised the bar for cultural experiences in the region.
As the curtain rises on this well-deserved achievement, Algonquin Arts Theatre invites the community to join in the celebration by attending one of the many offerings this season. The theatre looks forward to continuing its mission of providing enriching, inspiring, and unforgettable live performances for years to come.
Tickets may be purchased at www.algonquinarts.org, by calling 732-528-9211 or by visiting the Algonquin Arts Theatre box office Monday through Saturday, 10:00am-4:00pm located at 60 Abe Voorhees Drive, Manasquan, New Jersey.
Photo by Jerry Dalia
ALGONQUIN ARTS THEATRE (AAT) is a 501c(3) non-profit center for performing arts, providing cultural enrichment and arts education for residents and visitors of Central New Jersey and the Jersey Shore through high quality performances and programs in theatre, music, dance and film.
Located in Manasquan, N.J., AAT is an integral part of the Shore region, offering broad access to arts experiences across multiple disciplines. Deeply committed to education, AAT serves students of all ages not only through art and music instruction, but also through the unique communal conversation that exists between audience member and performer. A journeyman house, AAT features the work of young and emerging artists, designers and directors working alongside seasoned professionals.
AAT provides a platform for local and regional performers to showcase their work and offers audiences the opportunity to engage very directly and personally in the arts, fostering greater participation and providing an engaging means for exploring personal and societal issues through the world of the stage.
Algonquin Arts Theatre's programs are made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts / Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding is also provided by Hackensack Meridian Health, the PNC Foundation, Manasquan Bank, Sunnyside Manor, the Dodge Foundation, the Provident Bank Foundation and the generosity of other businesses and their patrons.

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EVENT PREVIEWS

"Chip and Gus" - a comedy with balls comes to Florham Park on July 20th
(FLORHAM PARK, NJ) -- On Monday, July 20, 2026, Chip and Gus, a comedy with balls will be presented at The Thomas H. Kean Theatre Factory. The play is performed, directed, and created by John Ahlin & Christopher Patrick Mullen. Showtime is 7:30pm.

Nutley Little Theatre presents "The Worst Fairy Tale Ever"
(NUTLEY, NJ) -- The Narrator is ready to start the show, but how is that supposed to happen when nobody else in the cast has read the script and the costumes haven't even arrived yet? Children, families, and the young at heart will find out when Nutley Little Theatre presents The Worst Fairy Tale Ever by Todd Wallinger July 25-26, 2026.
The Theater Project presents Kaleidoscope Kabaret
(UNION, NJ) -- Kaleidoscope Kabaret (that's Kabaret with a K), The Theater Project's annual festival of live music and short comedic plays, will liven up the stage of DMK Black Box Theatre in Union Township's new Arts Center from July 24-26, 2026.
Aspire Performing Arts presents Disney's "Descendants: The Musical"
(MONTVILLE, NJ) -- Aspire Performing Arts Company, an award-winning performing arts company based in Wayne, will present Disney's Descendants: The Musical from July 24-26, 2026 at the Barn Theatre in Montville. The production features two casts of young performers and is directed by Joey Nasta with musical direction by Shannen Lynn and choreography by Charlize Dominguez.

Mile Square Theatre presents "Urinetown: The Musical"
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Country Gate Players presents "The Addams Family Musical" (Youth Production)
(BELVIDERE, NJ) -- Country Gate Players presents The Addams Family Musical (Youth Production) from July 24-26, 2026. This is the spectacular culminating production of their 2026 Summer Youth Performance Workshop.

Award-Winning "5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche" Returns for One-Day Fundraising Preview Before Edinburgh Fringe Debut
(GARWOOD, NJ) -- Before taking their award-winning production to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland this August, Cheese Platter Productions will present one final hometown performance, and one final opportunity for audiences to help send the company overseas.

Woodbridge Community Players present "9 to 5, The Musical"
(WOODBRIDGE, NJ) -- The Woodbridge Community Players present 9 to 5, The Musical from July 23-26, 2026 at The Theater at Woodbridge Middle School. Three unlikely friends take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can't do, even in a man's world.

The 1964 Civil Rights Act Takes Center Stage with "All The Way" at Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey on July 27th
(MADISON, NJ) -- The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) continues its acclaimed Revolutionary Voices play reading series with Robert Schenkkan's Tony Award-winning drama All the Way on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 7:30pm at the F. M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre on the campus of Drew University. This special one-night-only event brings together an exceptional cast to dramatize one of the most pivotal periods in American history.
Mystic Vision Players presents "Seussical, the Musical"
(LINDEN, NJ) -- Mystic Vision Players presents Seussical, the Musical across two weekends from July 24 through August 1, 2026 in the Susan L. Hudak Auditorium inside Linden High School. The musical features a Book by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty; Music by Stephen Flaherty; and Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. It was Co-Conceived by Eric Idle and Based on the Works of Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss).