NEWS | FEATURES | PREVIEWS | EVENTS

originally published: 02/22/2022

(EDISON, NJ) -- Middlesex County’s Plays-in-the-Park is returning to the stage this summer, with performances of Something Rotten!, The SpongeBob Musical, and A Chorus Line at the Stephen J. Capestro Theatre in Edison, part of Plays-in-the-Park’s 60th season.

“Plays in the Park is one of our most celebrated programs, and we’re thrilled to be able to present our favorite Broadway musicals once again, after COVID-19 conditions required us to produce smaller shows last year,” said Director of the Board of County Commissioners Ronald G. Rios. “With three lavish musicals in the works, the goal for this season is to come together to laugh and connect, and what better place to do that than sitting under the sunset on summer evenings enjoying Broadway-caliber shows? On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, I would like to encourage residents to join us this season for a variety of live entertainment that will appeal to the whole family.”

“Our parks and open spaces have been a lifeline for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. And with Plays-in-the-Park returning to the stage again at Roosevelt Park in Edison this summer, there is much to celebrate this season,” said County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro, chair of Infrastructure Management Committee. “Since opening in 1963, Middlesex County's Plays-in-the-Park has been cited for the excellence of its theatrical productions thanks to its consistent standard of quality and its appeal to all audiences. I wish to extend my gratitude to the cast, crew, and production teams for, without their hard work, none of this would be possible. 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.”

“Plays-in-the-Park is thrilled to bring such wonderful shows to life in this our 60th Anniversary season!  We believe this summer truly offers something for everyone,” said Plays-in-the-Park Artistic Director, Margaret Davis. “Whether it is a hilarious romp through the Renaissance with the likes of the zany Bottom brothers in Something Rotten!, or a trip down to Bikini Bottom to visit SpongeBob and his friends in The SpongeBob Musical, or the ultimate singular sensation of A Chorus Line – individuals will enjoy some exhilarating entertainment out under the stars.  We have heard from so many of you and are so grateful for your 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

---

 

PLAYS-IN-THE-PARK 2022 SCHEDULE:

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

Something Rotten! (June 22-July 2) – Welcome to the 90’s― the 1590’s ―where brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a show that will rival the Renaissance Rockstar of the day, William Shakespeare. This star-lit, big-hit show tells the story of the Bottom brothers as they attempt to write the world’s very first musical. Nominated for 9 Tony Awards, Something Rotten! is a hysterical ode to musicals and an uproarious dose of pure Broadway fun. Your sides will ache from laughter!

The SpongeBob Musical (July 13-23) – Since its launch on July 17, 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has reigned as the number one kids’ animated series on TV’s Nickelodeon, and now we can enjoy those beloved Bikini Bottom characters LIVE ON STAGE in this Tony award-winning Broadway musical.  Come play with Eugene Krabs, Patrick Star, Squidward, Sandy Cheeks, Sheldon J. Plankton and of course the eternal optimist himself, SpongeBob SquarePants as they fight to save their undersea world. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage!! The power of optimism really can save the world!  Don’t miss this dynamic stage musical chronicling the nautical and sometimes nonsensical adventures of your favorite Bikini Bottom buddies!

A Chorus Line (August 3-13) – Exploring the inner lives and poignant ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies, the show features one powerhouse number after another, capturing the spirit and tension of a Broadway chorus audition. Memorable musical numbers include “What I Did for Love, “One,” “I Can Do That,” “At the Ballet,” “The Music and the Mirror,” and “I Hope I Get It.” A brilliantly complex fusion of song, dance, and compellingly drama, A  Chorus Line is instantly recognized as a classic and has been an audience favorite for decades.

---

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 $7.00 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.

---

AUDITIONS FOR PLAYS-IN-THE-PARK 2022 SEASON:

Plays-in-the-Park will hold auditions for its three shows on April 1-3. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing approximately 16 bars of music. An accompanist will be provided. Actors should also bring their own sheet music in the proper key, marked with any cuts. Auditions will be held at Plays-in-the-Park Theater in Roosevelt Park at 1 Pine Drive, Edison, NJ 08837.

Audition dates are: Friday, April 1 from 7:00pm-10:00pm; Saturday, April 2 from 12:00pm-3:00pm; and Sunday, April 3 from 12:00pm-3:00pm. Video submissions are welcome and are due by March 15. A vocal and dance clip should be sent to: Margaret.davis@co.middlesex.nj.us.

 

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

---

Plays-in-the-Park encourages actors of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, as well as those with disabilities, to audition. If you have any questions, please call 732-548-2884, ext., 221 or 222, or email Margaret.davis@co.middlsex.nj.us.

---

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 832,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities. Ranked #1 in the state for best schools, the County offers an award-winning vocational school system, a county college, and workforce development creating 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.