Chachi Quinn and Jason Tyler Smith from Vanguard’s 2022 production of Rent,  Photo by Spotlights Photography

(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- Vanguard Theater, Montclair’s acclaimed and trailblazing theatrical company committed to reshaping societal narratives through thought-provoking performances, has announced its 2023-24 Mainstage and Education Seasons. With an unwavering dedication to DREAM: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism, & Mentorship, Vanguard Theater continues its mission to engage audiences, foster creativity, and empower aspiring artists from all walks of life.

Mainstage Season: An Exploration of Identity: Vanguard’s Mainstage Season features three extraordinary productions that raise questions about identity - how we see ourselves, and how we are perceived by society::

Lady Day at the Emerson Bar and Grill (November 30 - December 17)— Dive into the heart and soul of the legendary Billie Holiday as Vanguard Theater presents an intimate portrayal of her life and music, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

Spiritrials (March 22 - 24)— Def Poetry Jam alum Dahlak Brathwaite’s hip hop theater meditation on drug policy, racial profiling, the criminal justice system, and human imperfection, flows seamlessly between rap, song, and storytelling.

Pippin (June 20 - July 7) — Embark on a whimsical and daring adventure with Pippin, a classic musical that dares to question the meaning of life and the pursuit of extraordinary experiences.

Education Season: Nurturing Young Minds Through Creativity: Vanguard Theater is committed to enriching the lives of young minds through innovative and transformative theatrical experiences. The Education Season, beginning October 1, promises to inspire, educate, and ignite the imaginations of students of all ages:

Disney Dreamers — For elementary school-aged kids ages 5-7, Vanguard Theater introduces an exciting new program designed to nurture young dreams through the enchanting world of Disney, fostering creativity, confidence, and a love for the performing arts. 

Aladdin — Students ages 8-14 are invited to embark on a magical carpet ride through the enchanting tale of Aladdin, a timeless story of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. 

Legally Blonde — High school and college students are in for a treat as Vanguard Theater presents a vivacious and empowering production of Legally Blonde, a tale of determination, wit, and the power of authenticity.

And For the First Time - Classes for Adults: Ignite Your Potential: Vanguard Theater is thrilled to announce two enriching classes designed to empower adults with theater tools and techniques! Classes begin the week of September 11.

Musical Theater Song and Dance — Unleash your inner performer and master the art of song and dance in this dynamic and invigorating class for adults

Acting — Delve into the intricacies of acting, exploring emotions, characters, and storytelling techniques in a supportive and collaborative environment!

Brandi Chavonne Massey at Vanguard Theater’s March 2023 Sip & Sing.  Photo by Spotlights Photography

Community Events: Uniting Through Music and Joy: Vanguard Theater is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and shared passion for the arts. Join us for our upcoming series of "Sip and Sing a Score" events, where participants come together to sing through beloved scores of iconic musicals:

Sip and Sing a Score: Rent (9/22) — Immerse yourself in the evocative world of Rent, celebrating the power of love, friendship, and self-expression.

Sip and Sing a Score: Hair (10/22) — Experience the revolutionary spirit of Hair, journeying through a vibrant tapestry of counterculture and self-discovery.

Sip and Sing a Score: Little Shop of Horrors (11/17) — Embark on a darkly comedic musical adventure with Little Shop of Horrors, exploring themes of ambition, desire, and unexpected outcomes.

Catch the Vanguard Vibe! Vanguard Theater invites theater enthusiasts, educators, families, and artists to experience the Vanguard Vibe. By attending our performances, engaging in our educational programs, and supporting our mission of challenging social and cultural norms, you contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant artistic community.

Join us in celebrating diversity, reciprocity, education, activism, and mentorship as we ignite conversations, provoke thought, and uplift the human spirit through the power of theater.

Founded in 2015, Vanguard Theater Company is a unique 501(c)(3) committed to changing social and cultural narratives through theater dedicated to DREAM: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism & Mentorship. Having just completed its second full year in its new home in Montclair, Vanguard Theater has quickly become a destination for great professional theater, inspired community collaborations, excellent youth programming, and more. Manifest star Geraldine Leer recently named Vanguard Theater as one of her favorite artistic destinations in Montclair, and, to quote Jay Lustig, “This is the third Vanguard Theater show I’ve reviewed since it opened its new Montclair space last year, and I’ve been impressed by them all.”  Vanguard looks forward to continuing its reputation for excellent theater and impactful community dialogue as it begins its third full season in Montclair, NJ.