(HILLSIDE, NJ) -- Kean Stage invites audiences to experience an extraordinary evening with internationally renowned saxophonist, clarinetist, composer, and multiple Grammy Award winner Paquito D’Rivera on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Enlow Recital Hall (215 North Avenue) in Hillside. Showtime is 7:30pm.
Celebrated worldwide for his innovative fusion of jazz, classical, and Latin music traditions, Paquito D’Rivera has spent decades captivating audiences with his virtuosity, creativity, and passion for cultural exchange. His remarkable career has included performances with leading orchestras, jazz ensembles, and acclaimed artists across the globe, establishing him as one of the most influential and respected musicians of his generation.
Presented in partnership with Kean University’s Center for Raising Excellence and Cultural Empowerment (CRECE), this special event offers much more than a traditional concert. Throughout the evening, musical performances by Paquito D’Rivera will be interwoven with an engaging conversation led by Dr. Frank Argote-Freyre, Director of CRECE. Together, they will explore D’Rivera’s artistic journey, cultural influences, personal experiences, and distinguished career. Audience members will also have the opportunity to participate in a live question-and-answer session, creating a unique and interactive experience.
Known for his ability to seamlessly blend genres while honoring his Cuban heritage and global influences, Paquito D’Rivera offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience world-class musicianship alongside thoughtful conversation about identity, culture, and creativity.
Tickets for Music and Conversation with Paquito D’Rivera are $23 and are available for purchase online or by contacting the Box Office at (908) 737-7469. The Kean Stage Box Office is located in Wilkins Theatre (1000 Morris Avenue, Union, N.J.) and is open Monday - Friday, 10:00am - 3:00pm. Enlow Recital Hall is located at 215 North Avenue in Hillside, New Jersey.
“This event embodies the spirit of Kean Stage by bringing together exceptional artistry, cultural dialogue, and meaningful community engagement,” said Steve Cochran, Manager of Kean Stage. “Paquito D’Rivera’s contributions to music and culture are extraordinary, and we are honored to welcome him to Kean University for what promises to be an inspiring and memorable evening.”
Kean Stage at Kean University educates, entertains and challenges audiences by presenting high-quality programs that reflect the diversity of the region and of the arts. These cultural offerings complement the intellectual life of the classroom for our students, increase opportunities for community engagement, and provide affordable access to the arts for New Jersey residents. Audiences of all ages are invited to enjoy a wide range of professional theatre, Broadway tours, dance performances, concerts, international films and family-friendly shows. In addition, Kean Stage encourages University students to attend events, and provides several opportunities to explore the performing arts through masterclasses, workshops, lectures, and employment opportunities as ushers, backstage technicians and box office staff.
Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Designated an R2 research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, Kean ranks among the top eight percent of U.S. universities for research and doctorate production. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports nearly 25,000 students worldwide as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 75 undergraduate programs, 10 doctoral programs and more than 90 graduate options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Jersey City, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Global, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education.
Effa Manley manages the Newark Eagles, a team she wants to take all the way to the Negro League World Series. Effa battles the press, coaching staff, segregation, and sometimes herself to win at the business of the game she loves most of all. She doesn’t worry about what it will cost her, even if it’s everything. Effa Loves Baseball is about the first woman inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Effa Manley manages the Newark Eagles, a team she wants to take all the way to the Negro League World Series. Effa battles the press, coaching staff, segregation, and sometimes herself to win at the business of the game she loves most of all. She doesn’t worry about what it will cost her, even if it’s everything. Effa Loves Baseball is about the first woman inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
