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originally published: 05/18/2023 

(EDISON, NJ) -- Middlesex County’s Plays-in-the-Park is returning to the stage in 2023, with performances of Rock of Ages, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and Cinderella at the Stephen J. Capestro Theatre in Edison, part of Plays-in-the-Park’s 61st season.

“The arts scene in Middlesex County is more robust than ever, and a big reason for this is our acclaimed summer shows at Plays-in-the-Park, which is now in its 61st Season,” said Director of the Board of County Commissioners Ronald G. Rios. “This year, we’re thrilled to have three spectacular Broadway-caliber shows in the works, including household titles like Rock of Ages, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and Cinderella. On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, I would like to encourage all County residents to partake in this season's diverse and entertaining live performances, sure to delight audiences of all ages.”

“For over six decades, Plays-in-the-Park has enchanted audiences with its breathtaking productions, staged in the picturesque Roosevelt Park in Edison. As one of Middlesex County's most treasured cultural institutions, Plays-in-the-Park has earned a reputation for its unwavering commitment to excellence and universal appeal,” said County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro, chair of Infrastructure Management Committee. “I wish to extend my gratitude to the talented casts, crews, and production teams for their immeasurable dedication to the arts. In addition to enjoying the many productions planned, we encourage everyone attending these events to bring a non-perishable food item as a donation for REPLENISH, making this experience not just entertaining, but also meaningful and impactful.”

“As the Artistic Director, it is my pleasure to invite you to be a part of this exceptional theatrical journey at the Roosevelt Park in Edison. Our talented casts and crews have been hard at work, bringing to life theatrical performances that are guaranteed to captivate and enthrall. Whether you are a seasoned theater-goer or a first-time attendee, I guarantee that this season of Plays-in-the-Park will leave you spellbound,” said Plays-in-the-Park Artistic Director, Margaret Davis “On behalf of everyone who has worked tirelessly to make this season our best one yet, thank you for your continued support, we look forward to seeing you this summer at Plays-in-the-Park!”

In partnership with REPLENISH, Plays-in-the-Park will also be collecting nutritious food for residents in need throughout the season. If you would like to help, please bring a non-perishable food item when attending performances.

 

Advertise with New Jersey Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

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The Stephen J. Capestro Theater is located at Roosevelt Park (1 Pine Drive) in Edison, New Jersey.

PLAYS-IN-THE-PARK 2023 SCHEDULE:

Rock of Ages (June 14-24) – takes you back to late 1980’s Hollywood when big bands, big guitars and even bigger hair ruled the day!  Come watch aspiring rock star (and resident toilet cleaner) Drew battle the big developers who want to turn everyone’s favorite Sunset Strip venue into a strip mall.  Can Drew, Sherri and the gang save the fabled Sunset Strip before it’s too late?  You’ll have to journey back to the ‘80’s to find out! This Tony Award nominated Broadway musical features the hits of bands including Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benetar, Twisted Sister and more!

Ain’t Misbehavin’ (July 5-15) – is a sassy, sultry musical celebration of the legendary jazz great, Fats Waller.  One of the most popular revues of all time, this 1978 Tony Award Winning Best Musical evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of this American talent with a versatile cast who struts, strums and sings the songs he made famous in a career that ranged from uptown clubs to downtown Tin Pan Alley, over to Hollywood and concert stages across US, Canada and Europe.

Cinderella (July 26 – August 5) – reminds us all that dreams really do come true!  In this contemporary Broadway adaptation, Rogers and Hammerstein’s lush score soars with our favorite songs including, “In My Own Little Corner”, “Ten Minutes Ago”, “Impossible/It’s Possible” and more – all alongside a hilarious and romantic libretto retelling the familiar story of the little girl of the cinders who transforms into the most enchanting princess in the land and captures the heart of the handsome prince, while her evil stepmother wreaks havoc every step of the way!

TICKET SALE PROTOCOLS: The Box Office opens at 5:30pm and patrons are admitted to the seating area immediately after purchasing tickets. All shows start at 8:00pm. The box office closes at 8:30pm each show night. All you need to bring is your favorite lawn chair.

Ticket price is $8.00 per adult; $5.00 per senior citizen 60 and over, children twelve (12) and under enter for free. In the case of inclement weather, save your ticket stub as it will allow you to see another performance this season. For more information, click here.

Middlesex County is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 19 park systems, and world-class healthcare and research facilities making it one of the nation’s most dynamic regions and a leader in technology, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. As one of the most diverse populations in the country, Middlesex County is home to over 860,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities. The County's award-winning Middlesex County Magnet Schools system and two-year Middlesex College uphold its position as #1 in the state for best schools, offering secondary and postsecondary education and workforce development programs that create a unique ecosystem in which opportunities abound. Conveniently located between New York and Philadelphia, Middlesex County is a leading destination for businesses and residents alike to live, work, and play – and has been since the 17th century.