(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- State Theatre New Jersey celebrated the power of classical performance with the annual Classical Season Celebration on October 23, 2025. The intimate candlelit event featured a performance by the dynamic and versatile cellist Angelique Montes.
The Classical Season Celebration supports the continued success of State Theatre New Jersey's year-round classical and educational programming—including the Symphony Scholars program with the New Brunswick Public School District, Edison High School, and SpeakMusic Conservatory—which are key elements of our work to provide access to live arts experiences for all in our community. Symphony Scholars introduces students to the world of orchestral music—offering access, mentorship, and unforgettable experiences with professional musicians that build both skills and confidence.
"We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our community to ensure that the timeless traditions of classical performance continue to inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds," said Sarah Chaplin, President & CEO of State Theatre New Jersey. "As a nonprofit theater, this fundraiser is vital, not only sustaining State Theatre's classical programming, but also investing in the future through educational initiatives that bring music to life for young people across our region."
Surrounded by the flickering glow of over 1,200 candles, Montes performed selections of contemporary and classical works by women and composers of color for an unforgettable recital experience. Her performance included the live premiere of Piece for Solo Cello by composer Sophia Bass, a mesmerizing work that blurs the line between performer and ensemble. Using a looper pedal, Montes recorded and layered herself live on stage—building a lush soundscape of five interwoven melodies that expanded and evolved in real time.
Classical music nurtures more than musical talent—it cultivates creativity, emotional intelligence, and resilience. By fostering an appreciation for this art form, we are helping to shape not only the next generation of musicians and music lovers, but also thoughtful, empathetic future leaders.
Key sponsors for this year's event included: Alma Scott, Robin Suydam & Paul Corkery, Steve DeMicco & Jeanne M. Fox, Nancy & Craig Guiffre, Magyar Bank, Todd A. Shamy & Joey K. Grinkley, Benjamin & Christine Bucca, Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri & Jacobs LLC, Eileen Harkins, and Wendy Wiebalk, Esq. & Steve Cahn, Esq.
State Theatre New Jersey, a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, celebrated its 100th Anniversary after major renovations in December 2021. Originally built as a silent film and vaudeville palace, State Theatre's historic significance was honored when PBS featured it in its documentary series, Treasures of New Jersey. Having played a significant role in revitalizing New Brunswick—crowned "Jersey's Best Destination of the Year" for 2025 by Jersey's Best magazine—State Theatre resides in the heart of the city's arts district.
Today, State Theatre is the largest performing arts center in Central New Jersey and has welcomed more than six and a half million people through its doors since reopening as a nonprofit performing arts center in 1988. State Theatre New Jersey is a cornerstone of the cultural vitality of Middlesex County and averages a total economic impact on New Brunswick and the surrounding area of more than $18 million a year. The mainstage programs have included high-caliber artists such as Diana Ross, Tom Jones, Kevin Hart, Ringo Starr, Melissa Etheridge, John Leguizamo, Harry Connick, Jr., Peter Frampton, and Leanne Morgan. Program offerings include Broadway, orchestra, family, dance, comedy, rock/pop, jazz, Performances for Schools, and Sensory-Friendly Performances.
State Theatre New Jersey's programs are made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts and through our generous community of supporters. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners through a grant award from the Middlesex County Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. For information on events, go to MiddlesexCountyCulture.com.
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