(RED BANK, NJ) -- Count Basie Center for the Arts will cap its Centennial Celebration with an immersive re-enactment of its opening night on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 6:00pm. Patrons can expect an immersive theatrical presentation from the moment they approach the venue – from 'stars' of the era arriving in classic cars, Gatsby-esque fashion and flair, an authentic speakeasy experience with custom, era-specific cocktails and mocktails, 1920s hot jazz and more.
"Our Centennial Celebration has given us a chance to reflect on this building's incredible history and what our presence means to our community," said Adam Philipson, President and CEO of the Count Basie Center for the Arts. "We wanted to end with something really special that would give everyone a chance to participate and experience what opening night might have been. We're excited to take audiences back to 1926, with vintage cars, live jazz, the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, and the first movie ever played. It's a once-in-a-century chance to experience a piece of our history while giving people a taste of the creativity and excitement we want to bring to the Basie Center for the next 100 years."
The historic theater's original, opening night presentation, the Paramount Pictures film The Quarterback, has been restored to 4k clarity by the Basie Center, and will be shown on November 14th along with accompaniment by noted silent film organist, Ben Model.
The Quarterback is a 1926 film directed by Fred C. Newmeyer that stars Richard Dix, Esther Ralston, Harry Beresford, and David Butler. In the film, Elmer Stone, quarterback of the 1899 Colton College football team vows to remain a student until Colton beats its biggest rival, State University. Twenty-seven years later, Elmer is still in school and is a classmate of his son, Jack. Other than driving a milk wagon in his spare time, Jack is also the quarterback of the football team. A matter of his eligibility comes up but he is cleared and goes out to do-or-die for Colton against State University. Maybe they will win The Big Game, and Jack's father can get a life...and a job.
A separate event will close the evening, featuring a curated dining experience by celebrated New Jersey chef Sean Yan (Metuchen's Ram & Rooster), along with a gala program honoring Senator Vin Gopal and Netflix for their contributions to the performing arts.
Tickets, priced at $19.26 all-in, are available for purchase online or at the Basie Center box office. Free tickets for Red Bank residents are available through the box office during regular business hours: Tuesday – Friday from 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday from 12:00pm-5:00pm. The Basie is located at 99 Monmouth Street in Red Bank, New Jersey.
Saturday, Nov 21, 2026
@ 7:30pm
Count Basie Center for the Arts
Red Bank, NJ
Eric Jacobsen conductor
Christian McBride double bass
Chris Komer horn
New Jersey Symphony
Saturday, Jan 09, 2027
@ 7:30pm
Count Basie Center for the Arts
Red Bank, NJ
Valentina Peleggi conductor
Blake Pouliot violin
New Jersey Symphony
