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MPAC's 2026 Summer Lineup: There's Something For Everyone

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 05/30/2026

Janelle James

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- From the classic rockabilly sounds of The Stray Cats to the amazing dance of Derek Hough, the comedy of Abbott Elementary's Janelle James to the classic pop sounds of Orleans, the summer concert lineup at Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) features a diverse set of performers with something for everyone!

In addition, MPAC also has a series of free summer outdoor events for all enjoy including salsa dancing, country line dancing and more.

A reminder that the MPAC box office is the ONLY OFFICIAL TICKET SELLER for MPAC Events. MPAC does not partner with resellers such as Stub Hub, Go Tickets and more, and patrons should purchase only from the MPAC Box Office to make sure that their ticket not fraudulent.  Parking for MPAC lots is only available through the MPAC website and the box office. If something smells like you are being overcharged, please call the MPAC box office or check out the prices on our website.


JUNE EVENTS


Friday, June 5 at 7:30pm | Happy Together 2026. The touring sensation that has delighted audiences for over a decade and a half returns with a show full of chart-topping hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s! Featuring: The Association (“Cherish,” “Windy,” “Never My Love”); The Troggs (“Wild Thing”); Jason Scheff, Chicago lead singer, 1985-2016 (performing early Chicago hits); Gary Puckett (“Young Girl,” “Woman”); The Fortunes (“You’ve Got Your Troubles”); Ron Dante, former leader singer of The Archies and The Turtles (“Sugar Surgar,” “Tracy”); The Vogues (“Five O’clock World,” “You’re The One,” “Turn Around Look At Me”); The Cowsills (“Hair,” “Indian Lake”) Tickets range from $67-$144 (LIMITED TICKETS REMAIN)






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Saturday, June 6 at 1:00pm & 5:00pm | Blippi: Be Like BlippiBlippi is coming to your hometown in the all-new Be Like Blippi Tour! Get ready to see the world more curiously as you move like, play like, and explore just like Blippi! Join Blippi and Meekah. live on stage in a high-energy live show packed with music, laughter, and surprises, featuring fan-favorites like “The Excavator Song,” “Monster Truck,” “Dino Dance,” and “Curious Like Me.” This brand-new interactive adventure invites families to put on your orange glasses and unlock the spark of curiosity inside us all—showing that everyone can Be Like Blippi! Tickets range from $47-$67.

Thursday, June 11 at 7:30pm | The Sergio Mendes Band - Celebrating 60 Years of Brasil 66The iconic sound of Sergio Mendes returns to the stage as Gracinha Leporace leads The Sergio Mendes Band in a spirited celebration of his life, joy, and musical legacy. Tickets range from $45-$101.

Sunday, June 14 at 7:30pm | ChicagoChicago, the legendary rock and roll band with horns, is the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six consecutive decades. Chicago has released 38 albums and had 20 Top 10 singles including “If You Leave Me Now,” “Saturday in the Park,” “Beginnings” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry.” SOLD OUT.

Thursday, June 18 at 7:30pm | Back to the Eighties Show with Jessie’s GirlSummer kickoff concert! From Madonna to Michael Jackson, Van Halen to Loverboy, throw on your neon spandex, legwarmers and metal gear because it’s time to party like it’s 1989! No two Jessie’s Girls shows are same – you’ll always get a different mix of ‘80s hits. Tickets range from $45-$79.

Friday, June 26 at 8:00pm | Straight No Chaser Beach BashThe international phenomenon Straight No Chaser disproves all stereotypes of male a cappella groups. Neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, they immediately bring audiences to their feet with nothing more than microphones in hand, grins ear-to-ear, witty banter on point, and an uncanny ability to belt out R&B, smooth jams, and stadium anthems carried by style, swagger and spirit. Tickets range from $57-$114.

Saturday, June 27 at 8:00pm | Three American Troubadours: Celebrating Taylor, Simon & KingFrom the poetic soul of James Taylor, the electrifying energy of Carly Simon, to the timeless magic of Carole King, celebrate four decades of classic pop music through unforgettable performances that will stir your heart, spark your memories and get you singing every word. Tickets range from $35-$67.

 





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JULY EVENTS



Thursday, July 9 at 8:00pm | Darren CrissSince bursting onto the pop-culture landscape in TV’s Glee, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Darren Criss has embodied kaleidoscopic artistry uninhibited by form or genre.  Backed by a full band, Criss performs well-known songs featured throughout his wildly eclectic career, including those from Glee, Starkid and the Broadway shows he’s starred in, such as Maybe Happy Ending. Tickets range from $57-$114.

Saturday, July 11 at 8:00pm | Janelle JamesAn evening of stand-up comedy from Janelle James, who stars in the scene-stealing role of “Ava Coleman” in the Emmy-nominated ABC comedy series Abbott Elementary. James has earned four Emmy nominations for “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series,” as well as nominations for Golden Globe, Independent Spirit, Critic’s Choice, and Gotham Awards. Mature themes, language. Tickets range from $45-$79.

Tuesday, July 21 and Wednesday, July 22 at 7:30pm | Derek Hough - Symphony of Dance: EncoreGet ready to move! Derek Hough is back with his most dynamic live experience yet! This brand-new production features fresh, high-energy choreography, breathtaking stage design, and Derek’s signature showmanship. Fans will experience a thrilling fusion of dance and music — from ballroom and tap to salsa, hip-hop, and beyond. Tickets range from $91-$179 LIMITED TICKETS BOTH EVENTS.

Friday, July 24 at 8:00pm | Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers: Indigo Park TourBruce Hornsby first rose to national prominence with The Way It Is, his 1986 Grammy-winning debut album with The Range. His work reflects a creative iconoclasm that’s been a constant throughout his career, whether that’s being a part-time member of the Grateful Dead, or collaborations with the likes of Ricky Skaggs, Bonnie Raitt and many others. Hornsby’s performance will feature material from throughout his storied career, in addition to music from his new album, Indigo Park. Tickets range from $45-$101.

Sunday, July 26 at 7:00pm | Hallmark Stars Live presented by MichaelsHallmark Channel stars are coming to MPAC! Hallmark Stars Live—hosted by fan-favorite Nikki DeLoach—is an interactive event where you can trade the summer sun for holiday fun and spend an exclusive evening with some of your favorite Hallmark Leading Men and Ladies including Ashley Williams, Andrew Walker, Tamera Mowery-Housley and Jonathan Bennett, as they answer questions, tell stories from behind the scenes, and share a glimpse into who they are when the cameras stop rolling. You'll laugh, cry, and experience joy with the stars who bring you the most popular Christmas movies in the world! Tickets range from $57-$134.

Wednesday, July 29 at 7:30pm | Hindley Street Country ClubAustralia’s greatest cover band plays the hits of the 70s and 80s! Hindley Street Country Club (HSCC) started in 2017 as a group of Adelaide musicians recording re-arranged covers and uploading them to Facebook and YouTube weekly. Today, HSCC has amassed over 590 million YouTube views with over 1,000,000 subscribers globally and accumulated over a billion views across social media platforms. HSCC now tours throughout the world to audiences far and wide, still releasing videos weekly on YouTube every Friday. Tickets range from $45-$79.

Thursday, July 30 at 8:00pm | Tyler Henry: An Evening of Hope and HealingNETFLIX Series Star Tyler Henry, The Hollywood Medium presents his one-of-a-kind live show, An Evening of Hope and Healing. Tyler will be discussing his gift and sharing unparalleled insights into the afterlife. Tyler explains how he communicates with the other side, gives live audience readings and answers audience questions. Tickets range from $79-$169.


AUGUST EVENTS


Wednesday, August 5 at 7:30pm | The Concert: A Tribute to ABBACome sing, come dance, come have the time of your life! The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA recreates the music and magic of ABBA’s greatest hits, including “Mamma Mia,” “Waterloo” and “Dancing Queen.” Tickets range from $45-$91.




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Thursday, August 6 at 8:00pm | Dead On Live – Bob Weir Tribute ShowWith respect and reverence, Dead On Live celebrates and pays tribute to the Other One, Grateful Dead co-founder Bob Weir. For this special show, Dead On Live will present a set of their trademark “Dead On” note for note fan faves from Bob’s extensive catalog with the Dead, as well as his solo albums. Tickets range from $35-$67.

Wednesday, August 12 at 8:00pm | EagleMania - The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute BandEagleMania thrills audiences with their uncanny ability to emulate the unmistakable sound of The Eagles. Enjoy The Eagles’ greatest hits and some of the solo work of its members. Tickets range from $45-$79.

Sunday, August 16 at 7:00pm | The Stray CatsBrian Setzer, Lee Rocker and Slim Jim Phantom (aka The Stray Cats) -- put Rockabilly music back on the record charts in the early-’80s thanks to a striking visual 1950’s style and sound on such hits as “Rock This Town,” “Stray Cat Strut,” “(She’s) Sexy + 17” and “Runaway Boys.” Tickets range from $114-$259 (LIMITED TICKETS REMAIN).

Wednesday, August 19 at 7:00pm | Orleans, Firefall, Pure Prairie League & Atlanta Rhythm SectionEnjoy an evening of classic hits from the 70s featuring Pure Prairie League (“Amie”), Atlanta Rhythm Section (“Spooky,” “So Into You”), Orleans (“Still the One, “Dance with Me,” “Love Takes Time”) and Firefall (“You Are the Woman,” “Just Remember I Love You”). Tickets range from $67-$124.

Thursday, August 20 at 8:00pm | Glen Burtnik’s Summer of Love ConcertGlen Burtnik and the amazing Summer of Love band celebrate the songs of the Woodstock generation. Featuring the music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Jimi Hendrix, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jefferson Airplane and many more. Tickets range from $45-$79.


Free Summer Concerts & Movies


The MPAC Arts in the Community free summer concerts are sponsored by ADP:

Tuesday, June 2 at 6:00pm | MPAC Music Student of the Month Recital; Location: Vail Mansion PlazaMorris County middle and high school musicians honored as MPAC Music Students of the Month throughout the past season showcase their talents in this year-end recital.



Tuesday, June 16 at 6:00pm | Bollywood Dance Party with DJ Arjun; Location: Pioneer PlazaDJ Arjun returns to spin Bollywood and Top 40 dance music mix and get everyone moving! B2Z Dance School returns to bring the rhythm of Bollywood moves and Mehndikalogie will provide intricate designs of henna art.



Tuesday, July 14 at 6:00pm | Salsa at Sunset featuring Bri’La Flor Dance Studio; Location: Pioneer PlazaMPAC’s annual salsa night spices up the town with night of Latin rhythms, great dancing and much more.  Instructors will be on hand to help you learn all of the steps!



Tuesday, July 28 at 6:00pm | Country Line Dancing with Paul Stoddard; Location: Pioneer PlazaBack by popular demand! It’s a honky-tonk evening of country line dancing with DJ and dance instructor Paul Stoddard, who will have you swinging to the sounds of classic and contemporary country music, whether you’re an experienced line dancer or novice!



Tuesday, August 4 at 6:00pm | Joshua Van Ness & Garrett Lash; Location: Vail Mansion PlazaSinger songwriter Joshua Van Ness is both the working man's musician and a true indie spirit whose music echoes the classics from decades ago merged with today’s sounds. Featuring Morristown Onstage performer Garret Lash.



Tuesday, August 11 - Free Movie Day at MPAC! Zootopia 2 @ 10:30am; Jaws @ 7:00pm



Tuesday, August 18 at 6:00pm | Wilma; Location: Vail Mansion PlazaA fun, female-fronted band showcasing delightful harmonies and unique instrumentation, Wilma interprets songs across many genres including modern pop, classic rock, folk, indie gems, and quirky deep cuts.



Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2026-2027 season is made possible, in part, by a grant the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals. Mayo Performing Arts Center was named 2016 Outstanding Historic Theatre by the League of Historic American Theatres, and is ranked in the top 50 mid-sized performing arts centers by Pollstar Magazine.


EVENT PREVIEWS

The Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) has announced the cancellation of Sips, Stars & Stripes: A NJ Wine Revolution, originally scheduled for May 30, 2026. The decision comes in response to the unprecedented freeze events that impacted vineyards across New Jersey during April 2026. According to vineyard managers and growers throughout the state, prolonged overnight temperatures below freezing caused extensive and widespread damage to grapevines in nearly every wine-producing region of New Jersey.

State Theatre New Jersey's A Night in Lights Annual Benefit Gala to Take Place May 30th

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- State Theatre New Jersey (STNJ) invites the community to its signature fundraising event, A Night in Lights Annual Benefit Gala, on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Christopher's Restaurant & Bar located inside The Heldrich Hotel. This highly anticipated evening directly supports STNJ's arts education and community engagement programs, which serve more than 30,000 children and families each year.
North Jersey Artists, Leaders and Businesses Invited to Shape Region

North Jersey Artists, Leaders and Businesses Invited to Shape Region's Cultural and Economic Future at Community Gathering on National Heritage Area Designation

(SOUTH ORANGE, NJ) -- The Northern New Jersey Community Foundation (NNJCF) invites artists, community leaders, business owners, cultural organizations, and residents to participate in Community Conversation: National Heritage Area in New Jersey on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 from 6:15pm to 7:45pm at the South Orange Performing Arts Center.
Visual Arts Center of New Jersey to Celebrate Spring Exhibitions with a Community Day on June 6th

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey to Celebrate Spring Exhibitions with a Community Day on June 6th

(SUMMIT, NJ) -- On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey will celebrate its spring exhibitions with a Community Day event. The day, which will feature artist-led walks around Summit, a live podcast recording, and drop-in workshops, will run from 10:00am to 2:00pm.
"The Global Game: The Future of Soccer, Tech & Media Summit" returns on June 9th

"The Global Game: The Future of Soccer, Tech & Media Summit" returns on June 9th

(NEWARK, NJ) -- GK Digital Ventures, in partnership with Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), has announced the return of "The Global Game: The Future of Soccer, Tech & Media Summit," set to take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. Following its acclaimed inaugural edition, the second annual summit arrives at the most significant moment in U.S. soccer history: New Jersey is hosting eight matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — including the Final — placing the Garden State at the center of a global spotlight.
Wine & BBQ Fest to Take Place in Sewell June 13-14

Wine & BBQ Fest to Take Place in Sewell June 13-14

(SEWELL, NJ) -- FIRE UP YOUR SUMMER! After years of unforgettable summers at Washington Lake Park, the team behind the beloved Washington Lake Park Wine Festival returns to this stunning South Jersey destination—this time with a bold new twist. Get ready to kick off summer in smoky, savory style at the WINE & BBQ FEST, happening June 13-14, 2026 at Washington Lake Park in Sewell, New Jersey, from 12:00pm–5:00pm each day.
Red Mill Museum Village and Hunterdon Art Museum Partner for "The Peace Flag Project"

Red Mill Museum Village and Hunterdon Art Museum Partner for "The Peace Flag Project"

(CLINTON, NJ) -- The Red Mill Museum Village and the Hunterdon Art Museum, in collaboration with Handwork 2026, invite the public to celebrate the opening of "The Peace Flag Project," a fiber chain of hundreds of community-made flags displayed along the banks of the Raritan River and pedestrian bridge.
UBS Arena To Host International Soccer Watch Party on June 19th

UBS Arena To Host International Soccer Watch Party on June 19th

(BELMONT PARK, NY) -- UBS Arena will host an International Soccer Watch Party, a public screening of two of the FIFA World Cup 26 (TM) matches on Friday, June 19 featuring USA v. Australia and Haiti v. Brazil. The fan-focused events will highlight all the excitement the tournament is bringing to the New York Metro area this summer and provide local residents with a unique way to experience these soccer matches together as a community.
2026 Princeton Festival to Take Place June 5-21 at Morven Museum & Garden

2026 Princeton Festival to Take Place June 5-21 at Morven Museum & Garden

(PRINCETON, NJ) -- The Princeton Symphony Orchestra (PSO) is pleased to announce that world-renowned bel canto soprano Sondra Radvanovsky and The Bacon Brothers, Michael and Kevin, are scheduled to perform at the 2026 Princeton Festival. At the core of the Festival, there is live opera with Festival veteran and current Met Opera star Toni Marie Palmertree returning to sing the title role in Puccini's Madama Butterfly. These major stars typify the quality of musical offerings to be found at this year's Festival which runs from June 5-21 on the grounds of Morven Museum & Garden.
Jersey City Theater Center presents 2026 Voices International Theatre and Arts Festival

Jersey City Theater Center presents 2026 Voices International Theatre and Arts Festival

(JERSEY CITY, NJ) -- Jersey City Theater Center (JCTC) presents its signature Voices International Theatre and Arts Festival from June 4-26, 2026 across multiple venues in Jersey City, and the Professional Voices Festival Conference on June 11 at White Eagle Hall.

 

MORE EVENTS

Click on the listing to bring up its webpage


Mrs. Christie

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:30pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Berlind Theatre)
Princeton, NJ


Mrs. Christie

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 2:00pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Berlind Theatre)
Princeton, NJ


Mark Morris Dance Group: Dances to American Music

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:30pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Matthews Theatre)
Princeton, NJ


Panama Dead - A Tribute to The New Riders of Purple Sage

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
Tuckerton, NJ


MPAC’s 12th Annual Spring Production: Frozen

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 2:00pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
Morristown, NJ


MPAC’s 12th Annual Spring Production: Frozen

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
Morristown, NJ


A Night In Lights: Annual Benefit

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 6:00pm
State Theatre New Jersey
New Brunswick, NJ


The Beach Boys

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:30pm
State Theatre New Jersey
New Brunswick, NJ


Michael Arnone's 33rd Annual Crawfish Fest (all day long from 11:30am on)

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 11:30am
Sussex County Fairgrounds
Augusta, NJ


Middle Life, Sundays & Counterfeit Kids – In-Person at 7PM!

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:00pm
NJ International Film Festival
New Brunswick, NJ


Phenomenon of Ivan Marchuk & Theater of the Absurd – Online for 24 Hours!

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 12:00am
NJ International Film Festival
New Brunswick, NJ


Shorts Program #1: Godzilla’s Day Off, Paper Crane, 35 Days, I Exist, Pizza Man, Prison and Time, Dustsceawung & Miracle Under 34th Street – Online for 24 Hours and In-Person at 7PM!

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:00pm
NJ International Film Festival
New Brunswick, NJ


Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre: Best Laid Plans

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 6:00pm
Carteret Performing Arts Center
Carteret, NJ


Dunbar Repertory Company presents "Seven Guitars"

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 3:00pm
Middletown Arts Center
Middletown, NJ


Dunbar Repertory Company presents "Seven Guitars"

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 8:00pm
Middletown Arts Center
Middletown, NJ


Crossroads Theatre Company presents "Sizwe Banzi Is Dead"

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 2:00pm
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC)
New Brunswick, NJ


Crossroads Theatre Company presents "Sizwe Banzi Is Dead"

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 7:30pm
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC)
New Brunswick, NJ


Lights & Shadows Theatre Company presents A Day of Theater

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 1:30pm
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC)
New Brunswick, NJ


Lights & Shadows Theatre Company presents A Day of Theater

Saturday, May 30, 2026 @ 5:30pm
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC)
New Brunswick, NJ