On April 9th, join the Newark Public Library for a special celebration recognizing Black Elders of the ‘Pearls of Wisdom: Elders’ Stories ‘Portraits of Resistance, Resiliency and Respect’ exhibit, on display at the Newark Public Library until April 30th. Witness an intergenerational exchange between the young and old generations, as First Avenue Elementary students share their multi-module artworks – including dance and art collages – with NJPAC’s Elders Council, a group of prominent Black leaders who are nominated and voted for acceptance into the council. The students will be presenting artwork inspired by the Elders’ experiences, highlighting their wisdom through a beautiful visual and storytelling display.
This powerful showcase, honoring the stories of community elders, is an extension of the ‘Pearls of Wisdom’ Youtube series, a collection of recorded conversations with the Elders Council members, preserving the insights they’ve accrued over their lifetimes for future generations to listen to.
This series is produced by Susan Pope, Ed.D. of Columbia University and the founder of ‘I Dance Because,’ and is informed by NAACP Newark president Deborah Smith-Gregory.
Watch the series…..
“When an old man dies, a library burns to the ground.” – African proverb
How can we face our present, if we don’t know our past? At a time when senior citizens — especially those in communities of color — are particularly vulnerable, we need their wisdom now, more than ever. Watch our monthly series of conversations with Elders in our community, as they share the insights they’ve accrued over their lifetimes and offer guidance for navigating a uniquely treacherous time. The Elders in this project are members of NJPAC’s Elders Council — a group of prominent Black leaders who are nominated and voted for acceptance into the council.
This series is produced by Susan Pope, Ed.D. of Columbia University and the founder of I Dance Because, and is informed by NAACP Newark president Deborah Smith-Gregory.
Visit the ‘Pearls of Wisdom: Elders’ Stories’ exhibit at the Newark Public Library
Pearls of Wisdom: Elders’ Stories
“Portraits of Resistance, Resiliency and Respect”
Feb 15 – April 30, 2025 at Newark Public Library
Along with interviewing Black Elders and documenting their stories, NJPAC has been capturing their portraits. These beautiful images were first exhibited at the ‘Kwanzaa Family Festival’ in 2024 and they will continue to be displayed in public spaces so others can know the Elders’ stories and learn from their life experiences.
REGISTRATION
RSVP is required. Register at njpac.org/event/pearls-of-wisdom-elders-stories-portraits-of-resistance-resiliency-and-respect/#register
Newark Public Library
The library is located at 5 Washington Street Newark, NJ 07102 Tel: (973) 733-7813. Learn more at npl.org.
(Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Spirituality, Business, Education, The Arts and Entertainment, and Cuisine)
Hear how the Great Migration – the mid-twentieth-century movement of hundreds of thousands of Black families from the rural South to the urban North – transformed Newark, in the words of those who made the journey themselves, and those who welcomed the new arrivals.
Dr. Katie Singer will present a talk on ‘Newark’s Great Migration: Stories from the Krueger-Scott African American Oral History Collection’ at the Newark Public Library’s James Brown African American Room on April 8 at 6 PM.
Dr. Singer’s research is based on scores of recordings of Newark residents — mayors, ministers and regular, everyday people —who experienced the impact of the migration on our city. The recordings were made in the 1990s to serve as an exhibit at a Newark museum of African American history that was planned but ultimately never built. The recordings were then stored on cassette tapes at the Newark Public Library for decades until a cohort of Rutgers University – Newark graduate students including Dr. Singer unearthed, transcribed and digitized them.
Among those whose voices are included in the collection are the late Newark Council president Mildred Crump, former Newark Mayor Sharpe James, and Dr. Zachary Yamba, former President of Essex County College.
Listen to Mildred Crump – youtu.be/qx2spNSPOvw
Dr. Singer’s talk is based on her new book, “Alien Soil: Oral Histories of Great Migration Newark” (Rutgers University Press, 2024), a history of Newark’s evolution based on the stories told in the oral history collection.
REGISTRATION
Registration is required. To register, visit njpac.org/event/voices-from-the-past-newark-and-the-great-migrationnewark-history-society/#register.
After a very successful 30th anniversary performance at NJPAC in November 2022 with over 2,000 in attendance, Shushi Armenian Dance Ensemble of St. Vartan Cathedral in NYC will return to Prudential Hall with talented artists from Armenia, Australia and California. This exhilarating song and dance performance, RESILIENCE & HOPE, will feature over 100 performers.
TICKETS
For tickets to watch Shushi Armenian Dance, visit NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
Follow NJPAC Online:
Website: njpac.org
Twitter: @NJPAC
Instagram: @NJPAC
Hashtag: #NJPAC
Facebook: facebook.com/NJPAC
YouTube: NJPACtv
Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:
Armed with her trusty guitar, superstar comedian Kristin Key tells jokes and stories with a musical twist.
Her ‘Lesbian National Anthem’ was a viral sensation, along with her brilliant DryBar comedy special Crafty. She hosts the podcast ‘Kristin Knows Blank,’ and she’s appeared on NBC’s ‘Bring the Funny’ and ‘Last Comic Standing.’ Using comedy as a way to uplift her community and create safe spaces for comedy fans from all walks of life, Kristin donates to local nonprofits with every date on her ‘Lesbian Army Tour.’ More than a fandom, this is a movement!
TICKETS
For tickets to watch Kristin Key, visit NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
Get ready for an evening of laughter at NJPAC with the legendary Paula Poundstone! Come to New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 8 PM for an unforgettable comedy experience.
Paula Poundstone, known for her standout HBO specials like Cats, Cops, and Stuff and Paula Poundstone Goes to Harvard, will take the stage with her brilliant observational stand-up comedy that has made her a fan favorite.
As a regular panelist on NPR’s “Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” and the host of her successful comedy podcast “Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone,” Paula Poundstone’s quick wit and humor are sure to leave you in stitches. Don’t miss your chance to see this influential comedian live!
TICKETS
For tickets to see Paula Poundstone visit NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
NEW DELHI (TIP): The Habitat International Film Festival (HIFF) 2025 enthralled cinephiles with a spectacular showcase of Italian cinema. Held at the India Habitat Centre, the festival’s Italian Focus segment, curated in collaboration with the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre, Cineteca di Bologna, and L’Immagine Ritrovata, was a resounding success. It celebrated Italy’s rich cinematic heritage while offering a glimpse into the dynamic contemporary landscape of Italian storytelling.
Vittorio De Sica’s Miracle in Milan – poster
The fourth edition of Italian Screens returned to New Delhi, featuring a selection of contemporary films and restored classics. Roberto Stabile, Head of the International Department at Cinecittà, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This platform not only showcases the best of contemporary Italian cinema but also strengthens Indo-Italian creative collaboration.”
Festival audiences were treated to a diverse lineup of films, from neorealist masterpieces to modern cinematic gems. Highlights included Vittorio De Sica’s ‘Shoeshine’ and Federico Fellini’s ‘La Dolce Vita,’ both of which captivated audiences with their timeless storytelling. The centenary tribute to Marcello Mastroianni was a particular highlight, paying homage to the legendary actor who remains a symbol of Italian cinema’s golden age.
HIFF 2025 was not just about screenings—it fostered dialogue and learning through an array of discussions and workshops. One of the standout sessions was Celine Pozzi’s exclusive workshop on film restoration, where she offered a behind-the-scenes look at preserving cinematic treasures. The collaboration with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture brought additional depth, hosting a discourse on the intersection of archaeology and film preservation.
In a special parallel event, the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture presented Milo Adami’s documentaries at Humayun’s Tomb Museum. A public talk featuring filmmaker Milo Adami, actor Giuseppe Cederna, and cultural experts provided valuable insights into heritage, democracy, and cinema’s role in shaping public consciousness.
The festival reaffirmed the strong artistic and cultural ties between Italy and India, emphasizing the shared storytelling traditions of both nations. The newly restored ‘Apu Trilogy’ was a standout attraction, underscoring the profound influence of Italian neorealism on Satyajit Ray’s filmmaking.
Vittorio De Sica’s Shoeshine – Still 1
Andrea Anastasio, director of the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre, reflected on the festival’s impact: “HIFF 2025 has been an incredible journey in celebrating the artistic and emotional depth of Italian cinema. We are grateful for the unwavering support from Cineteca di Bologna, the Italian Ministry of Culture, and the India Habitat Centre in making this a reality.”
As HIFF 2025 came to a close, it left an indelible mark on audiences and industry professionals alike. Beyond the grandeur of screenings and discussions, the festival successfully created a space where cultures converged, ideas flourished, and the magic of cinema was reaffirmed.
Vittorio De Sica’s Shoeshine – poster
The Italian Focus at HIFF 2025 proved to be a testament to the power of film to unite, inspire, and transcend borders. There is no denying that Italian cinema continues to enchant the audiences worldwide.
(Murtaza Ali Khan is an award-winning film critic who has served on the jury of the 69th and the 70th National Awards. He has been covering cinema, arts, and culture for the last decade and a half. He can be reached at murtaza.jmi@gmail.com).
La Nouvelle. (Photo credit: reelabilities.org/newyork)
By Mabel Pais
REELABILITIES FILM FESTIVAL: NEW YORK (RFFNY), an annual event, returns April 3–9, 2025 for its 17th edition, bringing audiences a diverse, thought-provoking lineup of over 30 films from around the globe. As the premier exhibitor of disability-related films worldwide, ReelAbilities continues to set the standard for accessibility, inclusion and community engagement. This year’s selection includes numerous World, U.S., and New York premieres along with the fourth ReelAbilities Industry Summit.
“For our 17th anniversary, the ReelAbilities selection committee has curated an exceptional showcase of films that expand imagination and celebrate excellence while reframing disability beyond stereotypes. They also excel as remarkable cinematic achievements in their own right,” says Isaac Zablocki, ReelAbilities’ co-founder and director. “The 2025 flagship festival spotlights perhaps our most diverse lineup to date, spanning across genres and perspectives while expanding our ongoing commitment to outside-the-box narratives that challenge preconceptions and spark meaningful conversations.”
OPENING NIGHT (at The Shed) – ‘The Trouble with Mr. Doodle’
ReelAbilities 2025 launches with an East Coast premiere of ‘The Trouble with Mr. Doodle’ at The Shed on April 3. Directed by Jaimie D’Cruz (‘Exit Through the Gift Shop’) and Ed Perkins (‘Tell Me Who I Am’), this innovative documentary explores the world of Sam Cox, whose compulsive doodling captivated millions online. The film delves beyond the viral phenomenon to examine the intersections of artistic obsession, mental health, and self-expression.
Additionally, MARISSA BODE, the trailblazing actress who made history as the first wheelchair user to portray Nessarose in the celebrated ‘Wicked’ film, will receive the festival’s Spotlight Award in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to disability representation on screen.
INCREDIBLE FILMS and UNMISSABLE PREMIERES
ReelAbilities 2025 features a powerful and diverse slate of narratives, documentaries, and short films highlighting disability culture, community, and creativity. This year’s must-see films include:
FEATURE FILMS
‘Blind AF’ (World Premiere) – A Blind Paralympic champion embarks on a historic 3,600-mile solo cycling journey, redefining her limits and independence.
‘Rising Phoenix: A New Revolution’ (World Premiere) – From the creators of ‘Rising Phoenix,’ this new documentary explores the next era of Paralympic sports and global disability advocacy.
‘Deaf President Now!’ (NY Premiere) – Co-directed by Nyle DiMarco, this documentary chronicles the 1988 Gallaudet University student-led protest that reshaped Deaf civil rights.
‘Championext’ (U.S. Premiere) – The sequel to Spain’s celebrated ‘Champions,’ this heartwarming sports dramedy follows a basketball team of players with intellectual disabilities as they redefine success.
‘Color Book’ – A father and his 11-year-old son with Down syndrome navigate an unexpected road trip to their first baseball game, discovering new ways to connect along the way.
Life After. (Photo credit: reelabilities.org/newyork)
‘Life After’ (NY Premiere) – A groundbreaking look at disability rights and medical ethics, revisiting a historic case that continues to shape conversations about respect, self-determination, and autonomy.
‘The Paper Bag Plan’ (NY Premiere) – A father, facing terminal illness, teaches his wheelchair-using son the skills to live independently before time runs out.
‘Magnetosphere’ – A young girl with synesthesia learns to embrace her unique sensory experiences through theater and music.
‘Maria Montessori’ – A historical drama exploring the pioneering educator’s fight for inclusive education in 19th-century Rome.
‘An Unquiet Mind’ – Powerful documentary dismantling myths about OCD using personal narratives.
‘My Own Normal’ – A filmmaker with cerebral palsy documents his unexpected journey into parenthood.
‘So Damn Easy Going’ – A Swedish coming-of-age story about a teenager navigating ADHD, romance, and independence.
‘Summer Brother’ – A transformative summer redefines the relationship between two brothers, one has a disability and the other doesn’t.
SHORT FILMS
‘Comedy Against Odds’ – A 10-year-old autistic comedian finds his voice through stand-up, challenging perceptions of disability and humor.
‘A Stupid Man’ (U.S. Premiere) – A wheelchair user reevaluates her relationship with her best friend in this fresh romantic comedy.
‘Iron Lung’ (U.S. Premiere) – A polio survivor and her sister must engineer a life-saving solution after a storm cuts power to her iron lung.
‘Unholy’ (NY Premiere) – A college student with a feeding tube navigates family expectations and traditions during a chaotic Passover Seder.
‘Lights, Camera, Friendship on the Spectrum’ – A new docuseries following young adults on the autism spectrum as they embark on creative endeavors.
‘Millstone’ – A psychological drama featuring an all-Deaf cast, exploring grief and unconventional therapy.
‘Turn Up The Bass’ – A documentary on Troi Lee, the founder of the UK’s Deaf rave scene.
‘BITE’ – A woman with PTSD navigates trauma through experimental storytelling.
‘The 17%’ – A documentary about an entrepreneur with Down syndrome reshaping workplace inclusion.
‘The Art of Weightlessness’ – An animated documentary on Bill Shannon’s unique fusion of dance and skateboarding using crutches.
‘Pyramid of Disunion’ – A wheelchair user’s quest for peace at an eco-commune leads to unexpected encounters.
EXPANDING PROGRAMMING & INDUSTRY IMPACT
In addition to the film screenings, ReelAbilities continues to expand its impact on the entertainment industry, offering exciting new programs and professional development opportunities:
REELABILITIES INDUSTRY SUMMIT (April 7–8)
Returning for its 4th year, in partnership with the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media & Entertainment, ReelAbilities Industry Summit convenes leaders and innovators from AMC Networks, Amazon Studios, Vimeo, ITVS, and more.
Featuring panels, workshops, and networking events focusing on disability inclusion in media, casting, production, and storytelling.
REELABILITIES COMEDY NIGHT (April 4 at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts)
This highly anticipated event moves to Lincoln Center for the first time and showcases top disabled comedians, blending humor with powerful storytelling.
FILMMAKER Q&As & COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS
Interactive discussions with directors, actors, and other disabled creatives exploring disability narratives, inclusion, and groundbreaking representation across media.
ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION
ReelAbilities remains the gold standard for accessibility in film, ensuring that all screenings, panels, and events include:
✔ Open captions on all films
✔ Audio description for all films
✔ ASL interpretation and CART (live captioning) for all Q&As, panels, and events
✔ Braille and large-print festival materials
✔ Sensory-friendly spaces and break rooms
✔ Wheelchair-accessible venues and service animal accommodations
✔ Select films available via streaming at reelabilities.org/stream
TICKETS & FESTIVAL INFORMATION
Tickets for Opening Night at The Shed, early-bird passes, and industry events are on sale.
For the full lineup and complete details about TIFFANY, visit:
reelabilities.org/newyork
For Industry Summit details, visit:
reelabilities.org/summit
Please note: Events are subject to change.
Reelabilities
ReelAbilities: Founded in 2007, ReelAbilities has grown from a single New York-based film festival into an independent nonprofit with over a dozen affiliate festivals across North America, including our flagship annual event, ReelAbilities Film Festival: New York (RFFNY), the premier exhibitor celebrating and innovating how the lives, stories, and artistic expressions of disability are presented and represented in media worldwide.
(Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, Health & Wellness, Spirituality, The Arts and Entertainment, and Cuisine)
The latest musical offering from Sikandar, starring Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna, has arrived in the form of the vibrant song Bam Bam Bhole. The song perfectly captures the essence of Holi, presenting a kaleidoscope of colors and energy. The song’s release on March 11 has been perfectly timed with the upcoming Holi celebrations, setting the tone for the vibrant festival of colours just days in advance.
Pritam has given music to the song. The lyrics of the song have been penned by Sameer Anjaan, with Shaan and Dev Negi crooning the number. The energetic track is bursting with contagious rhythms and an electrifying atmosphere, showcasing Salman’s screen presence and dynamic dance moves. Rashmika Mandanna joins him. The video also shows Kajal Aggarwal, but she doesn’t join him for a dance.
The song perfectly harmonises with the festive essence, creating a visually stunning spectacle that embodies the joy and vibrancy of the celebration.
The song’s release has generated significant buzz among fans, with many hailing it as the ultimate Holi anthem. However, some fans have raised speculation about a potential plot twist, sparking debate about whether Rashmika’s character might meet a tragic end in the film.
“Rashmika ka character marne wala hai film mai confirmed hai (Rashmika’s character will die in the film. It is confirmed now),” one wrote, with another mentioning, “I think Rashmika die in the movie! It seems like sallu imagining she is there with him”.
One fan shared, “Looks like Rashmika’s character is not present physically in the song’s setting and It’s just @BeingSalmanKhan visualising her in #BamBamBhole, Director sahab @ARMurugadoss what have you done”.
“#SalmanKhan & #RashmikaMandanna Pair looks fresh onscreen?,” one comment read. Another one shared, “Perfect Holi Dance number”.
Salman’s Sikandar will be released in theatres on Eid 2025. The film also stars Kajal Aggarwal and Rashmika Mandanna. The plot of the film is being kept under wraps. The film is backed by Sajid Nadiadwala’s banner, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment.
There were rumours around the film being a remake of Vijay’s Sarkar, with some social media users getting reminded of Prashanth Neel’s Prabhas-starrer Salaar. However, director AR Murugadoss came forward to set the record straight.
“This is a completely original story. Every scene, every frame of Sikandar has been designed and executed with authenticity, offering a fresh narrative and experience. It’s not a remake or adaptation of any existing film,” Murugadoss said, adding, “An essential part of the film’s originality is its stunning background score, crafted by the immensely talented Santosh Narayanan. His music perfectly complements the film’s energetic tone and vibrant visuals, adding an emotional depth that enhances every scene”.
ANOUSHKA SHANKAR performs the 3rd and final chapter of her recent trilogy of mini-albums: Chapter III: We Return to Light with a visionary new live show. The earlier chapters: Chapter I: Forever, For Now; Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn. This is a World Music Institute’s (WMI) presentation.
Due to fan-demand, after a sold out show at New York City’s Town Hall to take place on Friday, March 28, an additional show has been added and will take place at (le) poisson rouge (158 Bleecker Street, Manhattan, 7 PM – Doors | 8 PM – Show) on Thursday, March 27 at 8 pm.
Written and released back-to-back during two years of an experimental, creatively-charged global tour of an ever-evolving programme, the performance of each Chapter infused the composition of the next. After first exploring the transient, bittersweet joy of a summer afternoon on Chapter I and an immersion into a healing, womblike night on Chapter II, Chapter III completes the cycle, leading audiences through each movement and into the strong, golden heat of morning – a time of strength, wisdom and change.
Listen to Anoushka perform ‘New Dawn’ – youtu.be/_VzzaHWW74M
This show is part of WMI’s MASTERS OF INDIAN MUSIC SERIES.
WMI’s MASTERS series brings legendary artists from across the globe, presenting the most acclaimed artists from their respective countries and continents, including a MASTERS OF AFRICAN MUSIC and a MASTERS OF INDIAN MUSIC series.
TICKETS
To see the performance, visit worldmusicinstitute.org/anoushka-shankar-lpr.
Advance-Standing & Day-of-Show-At-the-Door-Standing tickets only are available.
Anousha Shankar
Learn more at anoushkashankar.com
World Music Institute (WMI)
Learn more at worldmusicinstitute.org
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Social Issues, Cuisine, and Health & Wellness)
DIRTY DANCING in CONCERT, the iconic Academy Award®-winning film stops by the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) after a triumphant world tour to let its fans indulge in it once more on Saturday, March 22nd at 8:00 p.m.
Get ready to have the time of your life while you immerse yourself in this timeless romance!
Watch a preview of the concert – dirtydancinginconcert.com/#video
Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey (Photo: Courtesy njpac.org)
After captivating over 200,000 fans with more than 100 mesmerizing shows across the U.S., Europe, UK, and Australia, the global phenomenon of ‘Dirty Dancing in Concert’ will bring its magic to NJPAC for one night only. There will be a live band performing on stage and a full-size movie screen honoring the beloved 80s classic, ‘Dirty Dancing in Concert’ promising to deliver a uniquely thrilling experience on the multi-platinum soundtrack that defined a generation!
Guests attending Dirty Dancing in Concert will have an unparalleled and unforgettable experience as they revisit the classic love story of Baby and Johnny. The live-to-film concert experience includes a screening of the digitally remastered movie while the band and vocalists play the hit songs live and in time with the movie. Stay for the incredible after-party, where the audience is encouraged to sing and dance to favorite songs featured in ‘Dirty Dancing’ while being taken back to their best memories.
CREDITS
As a timeless classic, “Dirty Dancing” is a story of summertime romance with a beloved soundtrack and memorable dancing scenes. When the film was released in 1987, it became an international box office phenomenon. It was directed by Emile Ardolino, written by Eleanor Bergstein, produced by Linda Gottlieb, and starred Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey in their most well-known roles, alongside Jerry Orbach and Cynthia Rhodes. The soundtrack generated two multi-platinum albums and numerous singles, including the Academy Award®-winning Best Original Song ‘(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.’ With a global box office total of over $214 million, “Dirty Dancing” won over audiences all around the world.
SYNOPSIS
Set in the summer of 1963, Baby Houseman (Jennifer Grey) and her family vacation to the beautiful Catskills resort, Kellerman’s. Intrigued by the staff’s dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), and the vastly different lifestyle of others, Baby finds herself learning to dance while having the time of her life and falling in love. It is a summer she’ll never forget.
TICKETS
For tickets, tour dates and more information, visit Dirty Dancing in Concert at dirtydancinginconcert.com.
Lionsgate Studios
Lionsgate Studios (NASDAQ: LION) is one of the world’s leading standalone, pure play, publicly-traded content companies. It brings together diversified motion picture and television production and distribution businesses, a world-class portfolio of valuable brands and franchises, a talent management and production powerhouse and a more than 20,000-title film and television library, all driven by Lionsgate Studios’ bold and entrepreneurial culture. Learn more at lionsgate.com.
GEA Live
Since its inception in 2003, GEA Live has delivered innovative live entertainment projects in more than 40 countries, becoming a global leader in the location-based entertainment sector. Learn more at gealive.com
NJPAC
Learn more at njpac.org
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Social Issues, Cuisine, and Health & Wellness)
(Left to right) – Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka; Asbury Park Mayor John Moor; NJPAC President and CEO John Schreiber; Elizabeth McCarthy, President and CEO, Community Foodbank of NJ; Charlie Lowrey, Chairman and CEO Prudential Financial; First Lady Tammy Murphy, Governor Phil Murphy (Credit : Jeremy Smith / NJPAC.org)
The ‘Prudential North to Shore Festival,’ produced by NJPAC and with Prudential Financial as title sponsor, returns this June featuring ‘Laughs and Jams’: A star-studded lineup of musical superstars and world-class comics.
‘Prudential North to Shore Festival’ will return in June 2025, building on the momentum of two extraordinarily successful festivals in 2023 and 2024, with an expanded lineup that runs from June 14 through June 29.
Watch a NJEDA preview video of the Festival – youtu.be/f79GiHpcAQk
Conceived by Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy in 2023, this year’s festival returns with a special focus on comedy and music — ’Laughs and Jams.’
In its first two years, the festival brought in more than $25 million for ticketed events and has drawn a total audience of over 500,000 to more than 650 shows in 250 venues in Newark, Asbury Park and Atlantic City, making it New Jersey’s largest summer arts festival. Prudential Financial returns as the festival’s title sponsor, as part of the Newark-based company’s celebration of its 150th anniversary. There are additional NJ sponsors.
N2S 2025 ANNOUNCEMENT
The lineup was unveiled on March 4 during a press conference at NJPAC’s iconic Prudential Hall, where festival organizers, supporters and arts and entertainment fans gathered to learn more about this year’s format.
“Now for a third summer, we can come together again to celebrate the qualities that make New Jersey an epicenter for diversity, creativity, and innovation,” said Governor Phil Murphy. ‘Prudential North to Shore’ is more than a festival — it’s a showcase of everything that makes this state unique, welcoming, and an ideal stage for talent and the arts.”
Then, for two consecutive weeks, comedians of all stripes and musical acts will perform in venues across Asbury Park and Newark. At the same time, free community events will welcome festival-goers with a taste of the rich and varied arts and culture scene that thrives in each city.
“In just three short years, ‘Prudential North to Shore’ has become the premier showcase of our state’s incredible depth of talent,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “I cannot wait to enjoy all the festival has to offer alongside visitors from around the region and from all over the country.”
“The breadth of experiences ‘Prudential North to Shore’ offers is unlike that of any other festival in the nation,” said John Schreiber, President and CEO of NJPAC. “We’re excited to offer something this year that is focused, bold and more Jersey than ever. Laughs and jams —comedy and music — will provide fans with unforgettable, life-enhancing experiences and the kind of joy we all need and deserve.”
“We are thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with NJPAC and return as the title sponsor of ‘Prudential North to Shore Festival,’” said Lata Reddy, senior vice president, Inclusive Solutions at Prudential Financial and chair of The Prudential Foundation. “For 150 years, Prudential has been a rock for millions of people around the world, helping them build financial security and live better lives longer. That path starts in our local communities, and we’re excited to help bring North to Shore’s economic engine and boost the creative economy back to our hometown of Newark and across New Jersey.”
PERFORMERS
Stone Temple Pilots (Credit : Jeremy Smith / NJPAC.org)
This year’s lineup will include Bleachers; George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic; Gregory Porter; Jack’s Manequinn; Jon Stewart, John Mulaney, and Pete Davidson; Josh Johnson; Lawrence; Natalia Lafourcade; Slightly Stoopid; Stone Temple Pilots; Streetlight Manifesto; The String Cheese Incident; Third Eye Blind; Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, and many others.
Two of the festival’s most anticipated events — LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells and HOT 97 Summer Jam — will bring the energy and impact of hip-hop to ‘Prudential North to Shore’ at Newark’s Prudential Center.
LL COOL J’s, Rock The Bells (Credit : Jeremy Smith : NJPAC.org)
‘Rock The Bells,’ the premier hip-hop festival experience, will take over with exclusive live performances, a fan fest, and immersive brand activations that celebrate hip-hop’s past, present, and future.
‘HOT 97 Summer Jam’ will showcase the hottest names in hip-hop today, delivering another powerhouse live music experience.
PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS REWARDS
‘Prudential North to Shore’ has again collaborated with advisory groups in Atlantic City, Asbury Park and Newark to provide ‘Prudential North to Shore Community Arts Awards.’ Through this program, the festival awards local artists, arts organizations, nonprofits and small businesses with up to $10,000 each to self-produce performing and visual arts events during the festival. This year, ‘Prudential North to Shore’ will kick off year-round community programming in Atlantic City starting on June 14.
A full list of the Prudential North to Shore Community Arts Awards recipients can be viewed @ northtoshore.com/community-arts-grants.
Additionally, select Community Arts Awards winners will be offered the opportunity to perform as opening acts for headliners appearing at mainstage and club venues in Asbury Park and Newark, giving them an unprecedented opportunity to connect with new fans.
The ‘2025 Prudential North to Shore Festival’ is also supported by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).
“As part of Governor Murphy’s vision to promote arts and culture as a driver of economic growth and community development, the NJEDA is committed to showcasing the strength of New Jersey’s booming arts and innovation sectors to the rest of the world,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “We are proud to partner with Prudential North to Shore for this year’s festival, which will attract thousands of attendees to some of the state’s most iconic cities and support local restaurants, businesses, hotels, and main streets during the heart of the summer season.”
NJPAC is producing this multi-city celebration with leadership support from Prudential Financial, the festival’s title sponsor for the second consecutive year. The Arts Center is also collaborating with several partners in New Jersey.
GROWING HEALTHY PANTRIES
A portion of all ticket sales will directly benefit Growing Healthy Pantries – a partnership between Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Community FoodBank of New Jersey, FoodBank of South Jersey, Fulfill, Mercer Street Friends, Norwescap and Feeding America, which addresses food security statewide and supports 1,000 food pantries across the state’s 21 counties.
“Beyond just providing emergency food to feed our neighbors in need for today, New Jersey’s food banks are also working to address the long-term causes and consequences of food insecurity, including lack of access to healthy options,” said Elizabeth McCarthy, President & CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “Growing Healthy Pantries is one critical way that we’re promoting nutrition, choice, and dignity at pantries across the state to address hunger as a health issue. We’re so grateful to Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, NJPAC and Prudential North to Shore Festival for their continued commitment to our shared mission.”
NEWARK: POWERHOUSE OF CREATIVITY
“Newark is long known to be a powerhouse of creativity, teeming with artistic expression – and exactly the kind of city perfect for hosting ‘Prudential North to Shore,’” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “I am so excited about the incredible lineup coming here this year, and I look forward to celebrating this festival with neighbors who already love our city and visitors who soon will!”
ASBURY PARK: DNA OF MUSIC AND ARTS
“Music and the arts are woven into the very DNA of Asbury Park, and ‘Prudential North to Shore’ is the ultimate celebration of that artistry and spirit,” said Asbury Park Mayor John Moor. “This festival not only spotlights the incredible talent that thrives here but also reinforces Asbury Park’s legacy as a cultural and economic engine in New Jersey.”
ATLANTIC CITY: CREATIVES & COMMUNITY GROUPS
This year, in Atlantic City, ‘Prudential North to Shore’ community events will be produced throughout the year, extending the celebration’s impact on creatives and community groups.
N2S PARTNERS
Producing Partners for this year’s ‘Prudential North to Shore’ include Montclair Film; Madison Marquette; Newark International Film Festival; SJ Presents; New Jersey Symphony; and Live Nation.
Prudential North to Shore Festival
For the latest updates, new concert listings, and tickets, visit northtoshore.com
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. It is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey — where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey’s anchor cultural institution, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 12 million visitors (including more than two million children) since opening its doors in 1997 and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit njpac.org for more information.
Prudential Financial
Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU), a global financial services leader and premier active global investment manager with approximately $1.5 trillion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024, has operations in the United States, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Prudential’s diverse and talented employees help make lives better and create financial opportunity for more people by expanding access to investing, insurance, and retirement security. Prudential’s iconic Rock symbol has stood for strength, stability, expertise, and innovation for 150 years. For more information, visit prudential.com
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Social Issues, Cuisine, and Health & Wellness)
Kiara Advani, who was supposed to play the female lead in Ranveer Singh’s Don 3, has decided to step out of the film to “prioritise her personal life” post pregnancy announcement.
According to a Pinkvilla report, Kiara Advani has “currently chosen to prioritize her personal life over Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3.” However, there’s no official confirmation yet either from Kiara Advani or Don 3 makers over the recent development. Last year, the makers announced that Kiara Adavni would be a part of the film. Excel Entertainment wrote on social media, “Welcome to the Don universe Kiara Advani #Don3.” The announcement video however did not reveal any information about Kiara’s role in the film.
Kiara Advani announced her pregnancy last week. Kiara and Sidharth Malhotra shared a joint post announcing the good news. The post features a pair of tiny socks. The caption read, “The greatest gift of our lives.Coming soon.”
On the work front, Kiara Advani is currently wrapping up the shoot of highly-anticipated War 2. In the film, she will share screen space with Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR. She is also a part of Yash’s Toxic.
Apart from these two films, rumours are rife about Kiara Advani’s potential involvement in Shakti Shalini and Dhoom 4, both slated for 2026. To keep her personal life on the forefront, if Kiara would work in these films or not, we have to wait for an official announcement
“What the New Jersey Symphony has established, bringing music to the Garden State in schools and in six different cities, is a sincere accomplishment. And it’s never been better.” – nj.com
Gregory McDaniel
New Jersey Symphony will present Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 with Music Director Xian Zhang conducting. The Symphony’s Colton Conducting Fellow Gregory D. McDaniel will conduct Debussy’s ‘Clair de Lune’ and Nico Muhly’s ‘Sounding.’ There will be four performances in locations in New Jersey (see program below).
PROGRAM
Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2
New Jersey Symphony Classical
Xian Zhang conductor
Gregory D. McDaniel conductor
Adam Tendler piano
New Jersey Symphony
Newark – Thursday, March 13, 1:30 pm, NJPAC
Princeton – Friday, March 14, 8 pm, Richardson Auditorium
Newark – Saturday, March 15, 8 pm, NJPAC
Morristown – Sunday, March 16, 3 pm, Mayo Performing Arts Center
Claude Debussy ‘Clair de Lune’
Nico Muhly ‘Sounding’ for Piano and Orchestra (New Jersey Symphony Co-Commission)
Sergei Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2
The program starts with Debussy’s ‘Clair de Lune,’ the third movement in his ‘Suite Bergamasque,’ arranged by André Caplet. Originally composed in 1889 and later revised in 1903, ‘Clair de Lune’ was inspired by a poem of the same name by Paul Verlaine and embodies both the beauty and sadness of moonlight. The first half of the program continues with the New Jersey premiere of Nico Muhly’s ‘Sounding,’ which is a co-commission with Vermont Symphony. Adam Tendler played the premiere in Burlington last May and will be featured as the soloist in this program.
The program concludes with Zhang conducting Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2. While composing the symphony, Rachmaninoff was influenced by Tchaikovsky. In the same turn, Eric Carmen’s 1976 hit song ‘Never Gonna Fall in Love Again’ drew inspiration from the Second Symphony’s slow movement.
Thursday, March 13 – Relaxed Performance
The concert on Thursday, March 13, at 1:30 pm at NJPAC will follow a Relaxed Performance format, which is designed to accommodate the differing needs of the Symphony’s patrons. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own sensory manipulatives, noise-reduction headphones and other tools that will allow you to react and enjoy the music in a way that is most natural for you!
For more information about Relaxed Performances and the resources you can expect to be available, visit njsymphony.org/relaxedperformance
Pre-Concert Classical Conversations
Two pre-concert Classical Conversations will take place on Friday, March 14, at 7 pm at Richardson Auditorium in Princeton and Sunday, March 16, at 2 pm at Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown. Concertgoers will be able to learn more about the music from Symphony musicians, guest artists, and other engaging insiders.
Concert Prelude
On Saturday, March 15, at 7 pm in the lobby of NJPAC, Newark, New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Curtland E. Fields Ensemble will present a Concert Prelude.
TICKETS & MORE INFORMATION
For more information on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events or call 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476).
Xian Zhang
2024–25 marks the GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning conductor Xian Zhang’s ninth season as music director of the New Jersey Symphony. Starting in 2025–26.
Learn more at xianzhangconductor.com
Gregory D. McDaniel
Gregory D. McDaniel is a passionate conductor who is active in many different musical surroundings. Learn more at gregorydmcdaniel.com.
Adam Tendler
GRAMMY-nominated pianist Adam Tendler is a recipient of the Lincoln Center Award for Emerging Artists, the Yvar Mikhashoff Prize, and “currently the hottest pianist on the American contemporary classical scene” (Minneapolis Star Tribune), a “remarkable and insightful musician” (LA Times), and a “relentlessly adventurous pianist” (Washington Post) “joyfully rocking out at his keyboard” (New York Times). Tendler is a Yamaha Artist and serves on the piano faculty of NYU.
Learn more at adamtendler.com
Connect with NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube
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VADIM GLUZMAN PERFORMS BRAHMS’ VIOLIN CONCERTO WITH NJ SYMPHONY
By Mabel Pais
New Jersey Symphony presents Lina González-Granados conducting alongside Vadim Gluzman as he performs Johannes Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77, March 20-22, 2025 in NJ locations.
Lina González-Granados (Credit : njsymphony.org)
PROGRAM
Vadim Gluzman Plays Brahms
New Jersey Symphony Classical
Lina González-Granados conductor
Vadim Gluzman violin
New Jersey Symphony
New Brunswick – Thursday, March 20, 7:30 pm, State Theatre New Jersey
Red Bank – Friday, March 21, 8 pm, Count Basie Center for the Arts
Newark – Sunday, March 23, 3 pm, NJPAC
Robert Schumann Overture, Scherzo, and Finale
Gabriela Ortiz Clara
Johannes Brahms Violin Concerto
Robert Schumann’s Overture, Scherzo, and Finale starts off the program. Composed in 1841 and often described as “the symphony without a slow movement,” the high-spirited melodies keep the music upbeat throughout the piece. The program’s first half continues with Mexico City native Gabriela Ortiz’s Clara as it sonically explores the relationship between husband and wife — Robert and Clara Schumann — in its five sections.
The program closes with Brahms’ Violin Concerto. A year after composing his Second Symphony, Brahms completed this concerto in summer 1878. Brahms’ friend Joseph Joachim, one of the great violinists of the 19th century, was instrumental in shaping the solo part of the piece.
Pre-Concert Classical Conversations
Two pre-concert Classical Conversations will take place on Thursday, March 20, at 6:30 pm at State Theatre, NJ in New Brunswick and Saturday, March 22, at 7 pm at Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank. Concertgoers will be able to learn more about the music from Symphony musicians, guest artists, and other engaging insiders.
Pre-Concert Performance
The concert on Sunday, March 23, will open with a performance by the students from the El Sistema New Jersey Alliance, featuring Paterson Music Project, Trenton Music Makers, and United Children’s Music Project.
TICKETS & MORE INFORMATION
For more information on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events or call 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476).
Lina González-Granados
Praised for her “rich, heartfelt orchestral sound” (Chicago Sun-Times), “rhythmic vitality” (San Francisco Chronicle), and “raw power” (LA Times), Colombian American conductor Lina González-Granados has distinguished herself nationally and internationally as a singular talent. Learn more at linagonzalezgranados.com.
Vadim Gluzman
Universally recognized among today’s top performing artists, Vadim Gluzman breathes new life and passion into the golden era of the 19th and 20th centuries’ violin tradition. Learn more at vadimgluzman.com.
New Jersey Symphony
New Jersey Symphony is a GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning orchestra. Under the direction of the Music Director Xian Zhang, the Symphony performs more than 60 concerts at mainstage venues across the state, including Newark, Princeton, New Brunswick, Red Bank, and Morristown as well as schools and public spaces statewide. Programming at the Symphony reflects an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while providing students across the state unparalleled opportunities to achieve musical excellence through its Youth Orchestra and other outreach programs.
For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit the website at njsymphony.org or call 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476).
Connect with NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Social Issues, Cuisine, and Health & Wellness)
“If people all over the world would consider interacting with each other the way musicians and artists all over the world interact with each other, we would have a much more peaceful planet.”
– Zakir Hussain in an interview with India Today magazine
Rachel Cooper of Asia Society speaks at the Memorial for Maestro Zakir Hussain. (Credit: Sneh Arts)
A memorial tribute to the legendary Ustad Zakir Hussain was hosted by The Asia Society, New York, in collaboration with Sneh Arts, New York and Sound Traditions, New Jersey. ‘A Life In Rhythm’ celebrating the maestro was held on February 1 at The Asia Society (725 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10021 – (212) 288-6400) at 4 p.m.
The event brought together an extraordinary gathering of cultural leaders, admirers and local musicians who celebrated his unparalleled legacy through stories, shared memories, and music.
PROGRAM
The program commenced with inspiring opening remarks by Rachel Cooper (Asia Society’s Director of Global Performing Arts and Cultural Initiatives), Sunny Thakkar (Founder, Sneh Arts & Sneh Arts Foundation), and Shruti Rawoot (Co-Founder, Sound Traditions). Their reflections set the tone for an evening of deep gratitude and admiration for Ustad Zakir Hussain’s monumental contributions to music and culture.
The opening musical offering was a deeply spiritual moment, featuring a harmonious blend of:
Shruti Rawoot’s serene rendition of ‘Dhrupad Bandish.’
Amira Dvorah’s moving Islamic prayers.
Deepak Kumar’s soul-stirring Sanskrit peace prayer accompanied by the tanpura.
A curated video tribute captured key milestones of Zakirji’s illustrious career, evoking emotions among the audience as they witnessed his journey through sound and artistry.
Community Reflections
The memorial brought forth heartfelt reflections from esteemed members of the community. Speakers shared personal anecdotes and professional insights into Zakir ji’s life, influence, and enduring impact.
Robert Browning, Founder-then Executive Director of the World Music Institute (WMI) said of Zakir Hussain, ”He brought a musical genius to all his endeavors. He was someone who had the strongest respect and empathy for people from so many cultures. He exuded joy, innovation & a deep appreciation for all life. He made us feel that we were all part of a family of music lovers and adventurers. No matter how dull or trying your day may have been, you came away from a Zakir Hussain concert with a feeling of exaltation.”
Gaby Sappington, current Executive Director of WMI said, “He will always be an inspiration to all of us at WMI. His service as an honorary Board member added prestige and credibility to our small but mighty non-profit organization. Zakir brought the soul of Indian music to collaborations with a wide variety of international artists such as George Harris, Ben Morris, Bill Laswell, Mickey Hart, John McLaughlin, and Bela Fleck…. just to name a few.”
Musical Tribute
The tribute continued with mesmerizing performances by:
Avirodh Sharma (tabla) and Rohan Misra (sarangi) in a special dedication to Zakirji.
Amira Dvorah shared some personal funny stories and music with a moving flute performance.
The program concluded with a final video of Zakir ji speaking about being one with his instrument and the magic that happens when their spirits meet. It created a powerful closing moment that resonated with all in attendance.
Watch a video of the event: youtu.be/bs73jvsGU80
Sneh Arts
Sneh Arts (@snehartsny): A New York-based arts organization founded by Sunny Thakkar, dedicated to preserving and promoting Indian music, dance, and culture.
Sound Traditions
Sound Traditions: Co-founded by Shruti Rawoot, promoting “Baithak Style” concerts and sparking cultural innovation through Indian classical music.
Asia Society Museum
Asia Society Museum: A leading institution fostering global understanding through arts and education.
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WHARTON ARTS’ YOUNG MUSICIANS CREATE GIANT MUSICAL PARTY AT JERSEY GARDENS MALL
Wharton Arts Music Schools perform. (Credit: WhartonArts.org)
By Mabel Pais
Wharton Arts will bring the joy of music to the mall at The Mills at Jersey Gardens on Sunday, March 16 from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. located at 651 Kapkowski Road in Elizabeth.
Families and audiences of all ages are invited to Jersey Gardens for a day of creativity, community, and inspiring performances. Wharton Arts welcomes guests to experience the performing arts up close—with free participatory music-making stations and performances by over 700 young musicians from the New Jersey Youth Chorus, New Jersey Youth Symphony, Paterson Music Project, and Performing Arts School. All are encouraged to celebrate the festivities!
Wharton Arts Day Schedule
Center Court
12:00 p.m. Performing Arts School
1:00 p.m. Paterson Music Project
2:00 p.m. New Jersey Youth Chorus
4:00 p.m. New Jersey Youth Symphony PLAYATHON
Pop-Up Stage near Saks OFF 5TH
1:00 p.m. New Jersey Youth Symphony Fortissimo Flutes
1:30 p.m. New Jersey Youth Symphony Clarinet Ensemble
2:00 p.m. New Jersey Youth Symphony Jazz Program including the Jazz Orchestra, Big Band, and Jazz Workshop
Kids Zone near Center Court
12:00 – 3:15 p.m. Instrument Petting Zoo, Art Activities, and more!
Kids Zone (Zona Infantil) Schedule
12:00-12:45 PM Paper Violin Craft (Manualidad de Violín de Papel)
12:45-1:00 PM Drum Circle #1 (Círculo de Tambores)
1:00-1:45 PM Hosophone Activity (Actividad de Instrumento con Manguera de Jardín)
1:45-2:00 PM Drum Circle #2 (Círculo de Tambores)
2:00-2:45 PM Make your Own Pan Flute (Haz Tu Propia Flauta de Pan)
2:45-3:15 PM Drum Circle Finale #3 (Círculo de Tambores)
Helen Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, said, “Wharton Arts Day is like a giant musical party at the mall! There’s nothing more exciting than filling the space with the energy and passion of over 700 young musicians. From movie soundtracks to jazz grooves, and even the chance to conduct a 500-piece orchestra, there’s something for everyone. We invite the community to experience the joy of live music, engage in hands-on activities, and witness the incredible talent of our students. This event not only showcases the powerful impact of music education but also reinforces our commitment to making the performing arts accessible to all.”
The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS) returns to ‘The Mills at Jersey Gardens,’ New Jersey’s largest outlet and value retail center, for its annual Playathon as part of the 2025 Wharton Arts Day. Over 500 talented young musicians will entertain shoppers with pops favorites, including symphonic highlights from ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Lord of The Rings,’ and ‘Star Wars.’
Audience members can bid on a chance to conduct the 500-piece orchestra and the crowd favorite ‘Stars and Stripes Forever’ at 5:15 p.m. In addition to the festival orchestra performance in Center Court at 4:00 p.m., an additional stage will feature NJYS jazz and woodwind performers beginning at 1:00 p.m.
PLAYATHON & MUSICARES
As the youth orchestra program’s largest fundraiser, Playathon helps provide financial assistance for students who would not otherwise be able to participate in NJYS, as well as ensures the continuation of programs that support excellence in music education for all. This year, 20% of donations made to the Playathon on March 16 will go to support MusiCares’ fire relief effort to support music professionals impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. For more information, visit musicares.org. To learn more or donate to the NJYS Playathon, visit playathon.givesmart.com.
Wharton Arts’ Mission & Vision & Arts Education
Learn more at WhartonArts.org
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Social Issues, Cuisine, and Health & Wellness)
HOLI DISH at Dilli Dilli. (Credit : cgacatering.com)
HOLI PARTY DILLI STYLE
WHAT: HOLI CELEBRATION
WHERE: DILLI Restaurant, 250 West 47th Street, NYC 10036
WHEN: March 8, 2025, 12-2 pm
Get ready for a truly unforgettable celebration of the Festival of Colors!
Celebrate Holi with your family the way it is celebrated in Delhi with delicious Holi inspired food, Puppet Show, Art, Cooking class, face painting and festive music.
This will be a unique culinary experience for the entire family, where Chefs Gaurav Anand and Vipul Gupta will cook up delicacies from Old and New Delhi popular during the festival of Holi.
Anu Sehgal, author and founder of ‘The Culture Tree’ will read from her award winning Holi book ‘Kahaani Rangeeli’ (Colorful Story) and there will be a puppet show with Krishna, Sudama and Radha.
Kids art session will include Holi inspired art by Buzy Bugs.
TICKETS
Ideal for kids 3+.
Tickets can be purchased at handstamp.com/e/holi-party-dilli-style-9uubksaf
Everyone will have to purchase a ticket since there is limited capacity.
Walk-ins will not be accepted since Culture Tree’s events are sold out.
Please do not get strollers since there is no space for them.
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SOUTH STREET SEAPORT
WHAT: HOLI CELEBRATION
WHERE: South Street Seaport, 19 Fulton Street, Fulton & Water Streets, New York 10038 (theseaport.nyc)
WHEN: March 15, 2025, 11am-2pm
ENTRANCE: FREE
Dances. Music. Drummers. Stories. Delicious food and powder play. The annual Holi celebration lets us shake off the winter blues and celebrate the arrival of spring. This year, the Seaport in partnership with The Culture Tree and the South Street Seaport Museum invite you to join the celebration of the traditional Indian festival of colors on Saturday, March 15, from 11:00am–2:00pm.
ACTIVITIES
Bring the kids, bring your friends, and join us for a colorful day, which will include interactive dance performances and workshops, literary festival, delicious tastings, art activity, a puppet storytime, music and, of course, spirited fun with brightly colored powder.
Visitors can also sample traditional Indian cuisine enjoyed during this annual holiday, purchase Holi’s signature colored powders and shop at the outdoor Indian market at Pier 16 featuring nearly a dozen Indian owned-businesses.
Please purchase your colors from Kulture Khazana at kulture-khazana.square.site.
In celebration of Holi, guests are encouraged to wear an all-white outfit to help amplify the Powder Play experience.
If you are a brand that wants to participate in the celebration, email info@theculturetree.com.
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KID’S HOLI – AARTI AND CELEBRATION
WHAT: HOLI PUJA
WHERE: Ganesha Temple, 430 Broome St, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10013
WHEN: April 26, 2025, 10-11 am
Join Culture Tree for a special Holi Puja at the Broome Street Ganesha Temple, where the morning will be filled with beautiful prayers, rituals, and blessings that you won’t want to miss. It’s a rare chance to connect with your community, immerse yourself in the joy of Holi, and experience the magic of this auspicious day together.
The event will include an interactive aarti, meditation, storytime (by author Anu Sehgal), and prasaad from TAGMO. This will be a beautiful celebration that is interactive and will bring the community together.
April 26, 10-11am
TICKETS
Tickets can be purchased at handstamp.com/e/kids-holi-aarti-and-celebration-yehhjqr9
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COMEDY SENSATION PINKY PATEL PERFORMS AT NEW JERSEY’S NJPAC
PINKY PATEL (Credit: Courtesy njpac.org)
By Mabel Pais
The PTA mom turned creator, comedy sensation, and social media personality with over 5 million Tik Tok followers, PINKY PATEL, is coming to Newark’s New Jersey Performing Arts Center with her ‘#isaidwhatisaid’ Tour on Friday, March 14, at 8 PM.
Pinky Patel, a comedy sensation, will return to NJPAC with her candid stand-up comedy show. She gained widespread popularity in 2020 with her exaggerated characters and brutally honest rants, quickly amassing a large online following. If you’re a fan, don’t miss the opportunity to see Pinky’s live show, where she’ll showcase her humor beyond her usual online presence. And don’t forget to wear your shiny crown, just like Pinky’s signature!
Originally from Illinois, Pinky Patel is a PTA mom turned creator, comedian, and social media personality with over 5 million TikTok followers. She rose to fame on TikTok, bringing laughter to millions of people. When Pinky isn’t busy spreading joy, she’s living the life of an everyday PTA mom to her two young children and trying to find creative ways to eliminate the extra eight-legged “roommates” in her glam cave. She is best known for her humorous commentary and viral videos from her glam cave, which have earned millions of likes on social media. Additionally, she has collaborated with brands such as Clorox, Pfizer, Pure Leaf Tea, and many more.
TICKETS
Tickets to see Pinky Patel are available by visiting the NJPAC Box Office or NJPAC.org or calling 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
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NEARLY THOUSAND CHILDREN ATTEND WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH EDUCATION CONCERT
By Mabel Pais
The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS), a program of Wharton Arts, will perform a free Education Concert for Women’s History Month. Nearly 1,000 elementary and middle school students will attend the free Education Concert on Wednesday, March 5 at 10:00 a.m. at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway. Students from Union, Essex, Morris, and Passaic counties will attend this special event celebrating Women’s History Month, with music selections by Louise Farrenc, Florence Price, Chen Yi, and Gabriela Lena Frank. Led by Helen H. Cha-Pyo, the NJYS Youth Symphony will perform a one-hour concert that offers an opportunity for young audiences to engage with music, history, and culture in a meaningful way.
Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Helen Cha-Pyo said, “Music has the power to tell stories, preserve history, and shape the future. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the New Jersey Youth Symphony is excited to present ‘Raise Their Voices!,’ a special educational concert highlighting the works of four trailblazing women composers who have made a lasting impact on classical music. Spanning over 200 years, the program features composers from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, each with a unique voice that has contributed to the evolution of orchestral music and the advancement of women’s equality in the arts.”
As NJYS honors the voices of remarkable women composers, they invite students, educators, and audiences of all backgrounds to join in celebrating their legacy. Their music speaks to the enduring impact of women in the arts. Young audience members can expect to experience a variety of symphonic dances and festival music and enjoy a special segment introducing various orchestral instruments with visual presentations. For more information, visit NJYS.org.
Wharton Arts
Learn more at whartonarts.org.
(Mabel Pais writes on Cuisine, The Arts and Entertainment, Health & Wellness, Spirituality, and Social Issues)
Nimbus dancers (Credit for all pics : njsymphony.org)
WITH XIAN ZHANG FEATURING NIMBUS DANCE
By Mabel Pais
The New Jersey Symphony presents three performances of ‘The Firebird’ (see program for details) with Music Director Xian Zhang conducting, March 7-9, 2025.
PROGRAM
‘The Firebird’ with Xian Zhang
Featuring Nimbus Dance | New Jersey Symphony Classical
Xian Zhang conductor
Jonathan Spitz cello
Nimbus Dance | Samuel Pott, artistic director & choreographer
New Jersey Symphony
Newark – Friday, March 7, 8 pm, NJPAC
Red Bank – Saturday, March 8, 8 pm, Count Basie Center for the Arts
Newark – Sunday, March 9, 3 pm, NJPAC
Johann Sebastian Bach – Prelude from Cello Suite No. 2
Caroline Shaw – ‘Valencia’
Qasim Naqvi – ‘God Docks at Death Harbor’ (Piano Quintet Version)
Igor Stravinsky – Divertimento from ‘The Fairy’s Kiss’
Igor Stravinsky – Suite from ‘The Firebird’
The program opens with Bach’s Prelude from Cello Suite No. 2 with the Symphony’s Principal Cello Jonathan Spitz soloing. The first half continues with Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw’s ‘Valencia.’ This short chamber work mixes harmonics, glissandi, minimalism, and rhythmic games throughout. The first act closes with the United States premiere of Qasim Naqvi’s ‘God Docks at Death Harbor’ (Piano Quintet Version) as Nimbus Dance joins the stage with choreography titled, ‘Dark Water’ in Newark and Red Bank.
The program continues with Stravinsky’s Divertimento from ‘The Fairy’s Kiss,’ which was drawn from a neoclassical ballet based on ‘The Ice Maiden,’ a tale by author Hans Christian Andersen. The second half of the program concludes with Stravinsky’s Suite from ‘The Firebird’ with Nimbus Dance appearing on center stage for both performances in Newark. Originally performed in Paris in 1910 by Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes, the piece was then reduced for solo piano and extracted as a concert suite in 1911 and was ultimately re-orchestrated by Stravinsky in 1919.
Estimated Concert Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
CLASSICAL CONVERSATION
Friday, March 7, at 7 pm and Sunday, March 9, at 2 pm at NJPAC in Newark
Enjoy a lively Classical Conversation before the performance. Learn more about the music from New Jersey Symphony musicians, guest artists and other engaging insiders.
PRE-CONCERT PERFORMANCE
Saturday, March 8, at 7 pm at Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank
Experience the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra’s outstanding Academy Wind Quartet’s special pre-concert performance.
TICKETS & MORE INFORMATION
For more information on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events.
Xian Zhang
2024–25 marks the GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning conductor Xian Zhang’s ninth season as music director of the New Jersey Symphony. Starting in 2025–26, Zhang will also hold the role of music director at Seattle Symphony. Zhang holds the position of conductor emeritus of Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano, having previously held the position of music director, 2009–2016.
The 2024–25 season sees Zhang return to the Metropolitan Opera in New York to conduct David McVicar’s acclaimed production of Puccini’s Tosca.
Zhang is in high demand as a guest conductor, appearing regularly with Philadelphia Orchestra and Los Angeles Philharmonic, returning to both in 2024–25. Her recording with Philadelphia Orchestra and Time for Three, ‘Letters for The Future’ (released 2022 on Deutsche Grammophon), won multiple GRAMMY Awards in the Best Contemporary Classical Composition (Kevin Puts’ ‘Contact’), and Best Classical Instrumental Solo categories.
Following a successful collaboration at Tanglewood Festival 2023, Zhang returns to the Boston Symphony Orchestra this season.
Zhang previously served as principal guest conductor of the BBC National Orchestra & Chorus of Wales, the first female conductor to hold a titled role with a BBC orchestra and principal guest conductor of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. In 2002, she won first prize in the Maazel-Vilar Conductor’s Competition. She was appointed New York Philharmonic’s assistant conductor in 2002, subsequently becoming their associate conductor and the first holder of the Arturo Toscanini Chair. Learn more at xianzhangconductor.com.
Jonathan Spitz
Jonathan Spitz has established himself as a leading cellist in the United States with his performances as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral principal. He is the recently appointed head of string studies at the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University and serves as professor of cello. He has been principal cello of the New Jersey Symphony since 1991, and he is a member of the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and principal cello of the American Ballet Theater Orchestra.
He has performed recitals at Carnegie Hall and at colleges and universities throughout the US. A graduate of the Curtis Institute, he was a student of David Soyer.
Samuel Pott and Nimbus Dance
Samuel Pott (founding artistic director) founded Nimbus in 2005 in support of a vision for dance, creativity, and the arts as a stimulus for growth and unity, both personal and communal. Pott’s work as a performer, choreographer, educator, and arts leader is dedicated to the authentic, humanistic, and equitable engagement that emerges in individuals and in communities through deep exploration and learning in the dance and the arts.
Under his direction, the organization has toured nationally, built the Nimbus Arts Center at ‘The Lively’ in Downtown Jersey City, developed the School of Nimbus which serves over 400 students onsite and many thousands in offsite community programs annually, and became the largest contemporary dance organization in the State of New Jersey.
As a performer, Pott danced as a soloist with the Martha Graham Dance Company, performing in iconic roles. Prior to joining the Graham company, Mr. Pott performed as a lead dancer with American Repertory Ballet, Oakland Ballet, and Savage Jazz Dance Company, in a wide range of new and classical repertory.
A recipient of Choreography Fellowships from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts in 2008, 2017, and 2023, and named a Distinguished Teaching Artist by the Council in 2012, Pott was one of 25 arts leaders nationally selected for the Association of Performing Arts Presenters’ (APAP) inaugural Leadership Fellows Program, serves on the Dance Advisory Council for New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and is a co-founder of the Jersey City Arts Council.
Nimbus reaches over 16,000 people annually, performing throughout the NJ/NY area and nationally, including recently with the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood. The School of Nimbus and outreach programs reach over 4000 youth each year, with scholarships available to ensure that no student is turned away for lack of funds.
The New Jersey Symphony
The New Jersey Symphony is a GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning orchestra. Under the direction of the Music Director Xian Zhang, the Symphony performs more than 60 concerts at mainstage venues across the state, including Newark, Princeton, New Brunswick, Red Bank, and Morristown as well as schools and public spaces statewide. Programming at the Symphony reflects an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while providing students across the state unparalleled opportunities to achieve musical excellence through its Youth Orchestra and other outreach programs.
For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit the website at njsymphony.org.
Connect with NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
The SR Socially Relevant™ Film Festival NY on February 6 unveiled its 12th edition narrative and documentary features.
The Festival opens March 11 at the National Arts Club (15 Gramercy Park S, New York, NY 10003 – 212 475-3424). The festival resumes Uptown at the Maysles Documentary Center (343 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027 – 646 853-1296) on March 12, The Forum (601 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027 – 212 853-6786 and MRHS (100 La Salle St, New York, NY 10027 – 212 666-4000 on March 13, and Cinema Village (22 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003 – 212 924-3364) on March 14-16. The Closing Awards Night occurs on March 16 at the Tenri Cultural Institute (43A W 13th St, New York, NY 10011 – 212 645-2800). The online section of the festival starts on March 17.
The SRFF 2025 Competition Categories are Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature, Narrative Short, Documentary Short, Rejoice Resist: BIPOC Films and Filmmakers, and scriptwriting.
Founding Artistic Director Nora Armani presented the films and synopses. The trailers and film details are posted on the website (ratedsrfilms.org)
under SRFF 2025. The website also offers press and media accreditations and sponsorship opportunities. The festival’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/channel/UCTSz55oZhoPPlhJos82RoSw) has trailers and posts live interviews from Meet the Filmmakers sessions. A BIPOC Filmmakers’ Panel will be held on March 13, followed by networking events and happy hours.
“Twelve years have speeded by. We are proud to have had the opportunity to present over 750 socially relevant films from 40 countries. The work of talented and dedicated filmmakers has offered us the bonus of learning about the human condition and filmmaking while engaging with an audience as a first step toward raising awareness of social issues. We could not have done it without the valuable support of our sponsors, partners, and friends.” Festival Founding Artistic Director Nora Armani.
TICKETS
Early Bird $5 tickets are available for a limited time only @ (filmfreeway.com/SRFF25/tickets). Tickets purchased online at full price are $15, and tickets at the door are $20). Students have FREE access with valid student ID.
SRFF Founder, Origin and Mission
SRFF was founded by Actress/ Filmmaker Nora Armani in 2013 in response to the proliferation of violence and violent forms of storytelling in media and entertainment. Following a family tragedy that cost the lives of two of her dearest and nearest, namely her cousin Vania and uncle Jack Exerjian, Armani founded the festival to commemorate them meaningfully.
This new edition addresses Aging, Art and healing, Climate Change, Disability, Healthcare, LGBTQ, Memory and Identity, The Prison System, Women, and Voices of Canada.
The Mission of the SR Film Festival is to spotlight filmmakers who tell compelling, socially relevant, human-interest stories without resorting to violence or violent forms of storytelling. SRFF believes in the power of film to raise awareness of social problems.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
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MEERA IYER FINALIST AMONG TWO AT REGIONAL ‘POETRY OUT LOUD’ CONTEST
POL Region 4 winners: (extreme left) Meera Iyer, extreme right (Bianca Diez) pose with Kevin O’Brien, New Jersey State Council on the Arts. (Credit: Courtesy, mayoarts.org)
By Mabel Pais
At the New Jersey ‘Poetry Out Loud,’ Region 4, 2025 Regional Finalists competition, two of the contestants were named finalists. Meera Iyer from Morristown Beard School in Morristown, and Bianca Diez, from Morris County School of Technology in Denville were named the Region 4 Finalists. This regional contest is part of the National ‘Poetry Out Loud’ recitation program. The contest took place on February 10, 2025 at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown.
Meera Iyer and Bianca Diez will represent Region 4 at the ‘Poetry Out Loud’ State Finals on March 12, 2025, at Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank. Participants from 6 regions throughout the state will compete for the title of State Champion. The State Champion will move on to represent New Jersey at the National Finals in Washington D.C. later this spring.
POETRY OUT LOUD
‘Poetry Out Loud’ is a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry by offering free educational materials and a dynamic recitation competition for high school students across the country. ‘Poetry Out Loud’ is a partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts, Poetry Foundation, and the 55 state and jurisdictional arts agencies.
New Jersey ‘Poetry Out Loud’ is a project of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program, led by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, in partnership with the state and jurisdictional arts agencies across the country. In New Jersey, the State Arts Council and the Basie work with a growing network of regional partners to implement the program statewide. Learn more at poetryoutloud.org.
For more information about New Jersey ‘Poetry Out Loud,’ the State Finals, and more, visit njpol.org/what-is-pol.
The Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
Website: mayoarts.org
Facebook: facebook.com/MayoPerformingArtsCenter
Instagram: instagram.com/mayopac/
Twitter: twitter.com/MayoCenter
YouTube: youtube.com/user/MayoCenter
The New Jersey State Council On The Arts
The New Jersey State Council on the Arts, created in 1966, is a division of the NJ Department of State and a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. To learn more about the Council, visit artscouncil.nj.gov.
The Count Basie Center For The Arts
The Count Basie Center for the Arts is New Jersey’s premier center for the cultural arts, dedicated to fostering powerful, inclusive artistic experiences and creative exchange of ideas. The Basie mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through its distinct and engaging cultural and artistic offerings that reflect the diversity of the region. Learn more at thebasie.org.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
The New Jersey Symphony presents new Resident Artistic Partner Allison Loggins-Hull’s ‘Can You See?,’ as opening piece, with three performances in NJ locations (see program below) of Brahms and Chopin with Christoph König conducting.
The program opens with ‘Can You See?’ In 2021, Loggins-Hull was commissioned to write the piece for the New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players. This weekend’s performances mark the East Coast premiere of Hull’s expanded version for full orchestra.
The program continues with Frédéric Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1, a favorite around the world. Tony Siqi Yun, the 23-year-old Canadian-born pianist who was Gold Medalist at the First China International Music Competition (2019) and recipient of the Rheingau Music Festival’s 2023 Lotto-Förderpreis, is set to appear in this part of the program as soloist. Yun made his debut with the Symphony last year at the 2024 Lunar New Year Celebration Concert.
The second half of the program features Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 1. Following its premiere in 1876, Brahms’ First quickly garnered the nickname ‘Beethoven’s Tenth,’ particularly for the fourth movement’s simple hymn-like melody that reminded some listeners of Beethoven’s ‘Ode to Joy.’ To this day, it remains beloved by concertgoers for its emotional power.
PROGRAM
Brahms and Chopin
New Jersey Symphony Classical
Christoph König conductor
Tony Siqi Yun piano
New Jersey Symphony
Newark – Thursday, February 20, 1:30 pm, NJPAC
Red Bank – Saturday, February 22, 8 pm, Count Basie Center for the Arts
New Brunswick – Sunday, February 23, 3 pm, State Theatre New Jersey
A Classical Conversation will take place on Sunday, February 23, at 2 pm at State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick before the performance. Concertgoers will be able to learn more about the music from Symphony musicians, guest artists, and other engaging insiders.
For more information on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events.
Christoph König
Christoph König. (Credit : njsymphony.org)
Christoph König began his tenure as chief conductor of the Spanish Radio Television Symphony Orchestra (RTVE) in Madrid with the 2023–24 season and has been music & artistic director of the Solistes Européens Luxembourg since 2010. Starting with the 2024–25 season he takes on the position of principal guest conductor of the Warsaw Philharmonic. Celebrated for his clarity, precision, and elegant approach, König is in high demand as a guest conductor all over the world. Since his debut in the US in 2010, he has conducted many symphony orchestras like Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, New Jersey, Houston, Oregon, and Toronto, as well as the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
König has been affiliated with many of the leading opera houses of the world such as Zurich Opera, Deutsche Oper Berlin, Bonn Oper, Semper Oper Dresden, Staatsoper Stuttgart, and Teatro Real in Madrid.
“König offered a fresh, sensitive, elegant, and totally unmannered interpretation. Beethoven’s full textures were uncommonly well balanced.” Pittsburgh Tribune, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (Symphony No. 6)
König was born in Dresden where he sang in the famous Kreuzchoir. He studied conducting, piano, and singing at the Musikhochschule Dresden and furthered his studies in masterclasses with Sergiu Celibidache and Sir Colin Davis, whose assistant he later became with the Sächsische Staatskapelle at the Semper Oper Dresden. Connect with König @facebook.com/ccckoenig.
Tony Siqi Yun
Tony Siqi Yun (Credit : njsymphony.org)
The Canadian-born pianist Tony Siqi Yun, Gold Medalist at the First China International Music Competition (2019) and the award recipient of the Rheingau Music Festival’s Lotto-Förderpreis (2023), is quickly becoming a sought-after soloist and recitalist. At the age of 23, he has been hailed as a “poet of the keyboard” (Pianist Magazine), and The Philadelphia Inquirer noted his thrilling performance and “interpretive flashes that point to an emergent big personality: moments of grandness or deep expressivity.”
In 2024–25, he appears with the Nashville Symphony, New Jersey Symphony, and Colorado Springs Philharmonic orchestras, among others. He also returns to China this season, appearing with orchestras in Shanghai and Guangzhou. Major recital debuts this season are with Washington Performing Arts, San Francisco Symphony’s Shenson Spotlight Series, and Friends of Chamber Music Denver.
He made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2023–24 under the baton of Yannick Nézet-Séguin with Orchestre Metropolitain, following his 2022–23 debut with the Philadelphia Orchestra. Yun has appeared recently with the Toronto Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Calgary Philharmonic, Buffalo Philharmonic, Hamilton (ON) Philharmonic, and Rhode Island Philharmonic; outside North America, he has recently appeared with Orchestre de Chambre de Paris, and Shanghai Symphony Orchestra.
Yun is a 2024 graduate of The Juilliard School, where he was a recipient of the Jerome L. Greene Fellowship and studied with Professors Yoheved Kaplinsky and Matti Raekallio. Follow Tony on Instagram @tonysiqiyun.
The New Jersey Symphony
The New Jersey Symphony is a GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning orchestra. Under the direction of the Music Director Xian Zhang, the Symphony performs more than 60 concerts at mainstage venues across the state, including Newark, Princeton, New Brunswick, Red Bank, and Morristown as well as schools and public spaces statewide. Programming at the Symphony reflects an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while providing students across the State unparalleled opportunities to achieve musical excellence through its Youth Orchestra and other outreach programs.
For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit the website at njsymphony.org.
Connect with the NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
The 2025 Sundance Film Festival which took place January 22 to February 2. The awards were announced and presented on January 31 at a ceremony for the jury and audience award–winning films at The Ray Theatre in Park City, where independent storytelling was celebrated ahead of the Festival’s conclusion. The 2025 Festival featured premieres, screenings, talks, events, and more in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah. All feature award-winning films were available online nationwide for ticket holders and passholders until February 2. For more information, visit festival.sundance.org.
“The past 11 days of the Festival have been a meaningful opportunity to connect as a community in support of independent storytelling,” said Amanda Kelso, Acting CEO, Sundance Institute. “We look forward to being reunited with audiences, artists, industry, and press next January for another edition of the Festival.”
AWARDS won by INDIAN FILMMAKERS
Rohan Parashuram Kanawade (Credit: Sushant Murkar/ Courtesy of Sundance Institute)
THE WORLD CINEMA GRAND JURY PRIZE: DRAMATIC was presented to ‘SABAR BONDA’ (Cactus Pears) / India, U.K., Canada (Director and Screenwriter: Rohan Parashuram Kanawade; Producers: Neeraj Churi, Mohamed Khaki, Kaushik Ray, Hareesh Reddypalli, Naren Chandavarkar, Sidharth Meer)
Anand, a 30-something city dweller compelled to spend a 10-day mourning period for his father in the rugged countryside of western India, tenderly bonds with a local farmer struggling to stay unmarried. As the mourning ends, forcing his return, Anand must decide the fate of his relationship born under duress.
Jury citation: This is a great modern love story. To say it’s an honor to award this tender film is an understatement. We cried, we laughed, and we wished to be loved in the same way. It is exactly what the world needs right now. This authentic point of view opens the door to an intimate language we all understand. We feel the humming heartbeat of the main character’s inner life, and when it bursts, it wraps us with its sweetness.
We award the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic to ‘Sabar Bonda’ (Cactus Pears).
JURY AWARDS FOR DIRECTING, SCREENWRITING, and EDITING
Geeta Gandbhir (Credit: Andrew H. Walker/Shutterstock for Sundance Film Festival)
The Directing Award: U.S. Documentary was presented to GEETA GANDBHIR for ‘THE PERFECT NEIGHBOR’ / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Geeta Gandbhir, Producers: Nikon Kwantu, Alisa Payne, Sam Bisbee) — A seemingly minor neighborhood dispute in Florida escalates into deadly violence. Police bodycam footage and investigative interviews expose the consequences of Florida’s “stand your ground” laws.
World Premiere. Available online for Public.
Jury citation: The Directing award goes to a filmmaker of remarkably disciplined vision who turns creative constraints into cinematic power, creating a searing indictment of “stand your ground laws.”
The Directing Award: U.S. Documentary goes to Geeta Gandbhir for ‘The Perfect Neighbor.’
A U.S. Documentary SPECIAL JURY AWARD for ARCHIVAL STORYTELLING was presented to ‘SELENA LOS DINOS’ / U.S.A. (Director: Isabel Castro, Producers: Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, J. Daniel Torres, David Blackman, SIMRAN SINGH) — Selena Quintanilla — the “Queen of Tejano Music” — and her family band, Selena y Los Dinos, rose from performing at quinceañeras to selling out stadium tours. The celebration of her life and legacy is chronicled through never-before-seen footage from the family’s personal archive.
World Premiere. Available online for Public.
Jury citation: This award goes to a film that transported us to a specific time and place, evoking themes of family, heritage, love, and adolescence. The power of the story speaks to the essential nature of the archive — employed in this film to chart the emergence of a once-in-a-generation talent. The winner of the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Archival Storytelling goes to ‘Selena y Los Dinos.’
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CURRENT FILMS
By Mabel Pais
REZ COMEDY
After the Canadian Screen Awards qualification theatrical run in Toronto last October, REZ COMEDY, the first all Indigenous stand-up comedy feature documentary world premieres on SVOD on AAM.tv and TVOD on Amazon Prime on Friday February 14, 2025, Valentine’s Day!
From the creators who won ‘Best Comedy Special’ at the 2024 Canadian Screen Awards, Rez Comedy is the first all-Indigenous stand-up comedy documentary feature, showcasing nine diverse and talented Indigenous comedians.
The feature film is produced and co-directed by Keith Nahanee, rising Squamish nation comic and filmmaker, and Comedy Invasion creator Quentin Lee, a 2024 Canadian Screen Award winner (academy.ca/2024/comedy-invasion-rez-style). It is also produced by Comedy Invasion producer Cindy AuYeung, 2024 Canadian Screen Award winner (academy.ca/2024/comedy-invasion-rez-style).
Rez Comedy is qualified for the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards in the following categories: Ted Rogers Best Feature Length Documentary, Best Cinematography in a Feature Length Documentary, Best Editing in a Feature Length Documentary, and Best Original Music in a Feature Length Documentary.
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DEATH WITHOUT MERCY – World Premiere @ Sheffield DocFest in 2024
Dir: Waad Al-Kateab (SAMA);
DEATH WITHOUT MERCY follows the harrowing journey of two Syrian families over ten harrowing days in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria in 2023 and took 55,000 lives. As they search for their missing loved ones and try to make sense of the event, the film reveals unsettling truths about corruption, governmental negligence, and the systemic failures that exacerbated the disaster’s impact.
Through intimate first-hand survivor footage from under the rubble interwoven with television news reports, social media interaction, and closed circuit tv and drone footage, the film is at once a moving testament to human dignity and a heartfelt tribute to the lives that have been lost in this catastrophic event. The release is timely not only because of the two-year anniversary but also in light of current world events.
Broadcast/Streaming Launch Date: February 6, 2025, exclusively on Paramount+ with Showtime.
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SILENT TREES – US Premiere: 2025 SlamDance Film Festival
SILENT TREES follows a Kurdish teen and her family as they find their lives on the cusp of being forfeited due to a dirty political power play between Belarus and Poland. Due to their circumstances, she has no choice but to assume the role of an adult well beyond her years if they are to survive in their new home. The film looks at one family, led by a spirited 16-year-old girl, whose lives are at risk due to the global refugee crisis and a political power play between Belarus and Poland.
While her father desperately tries to find work to feed and take care of his family while hampered by language barriers and other seemingly insurmountable hurdles, Runa finds comfort in drawing, which the film morphs into animated sequences that capture her dreams and nightmares.
DISPOSABLE HUMANITY – World Premiere: 2025 Slamdance Film Festival
Director: Cameron Mitchell; Executive Producer: Steve Way (Co-star of Hulu’s Ramy)
This eye-opening film delves deep into the dark history of the Nazi Aktion T4 program, where hundreds of thousands of disabled individuals deemed “unworthy of life” were systematically exterminated, highlighting the ongoing relevance of this tragic chapter in history in discussions about disability, worth, and societal perceptions of marginalized communities.
DISPOSABLE HUMANITY follows Cameron Mitchell’s family, who are Disability Studies scholars and filmmakers that have researched the Nazi Aktion T4 program since the 1990s. Through conversations with memorial directors, disabled people, and relatives of T4 victims, they uncover the horrifying truth: that the Nazi Aktion T4 program, was in fact the program where the Nazis trained killing staff and designed the apparatus of mass murder that led to the Holocaust. Disabled people were the first victims to be killed under the Third Reich and in this investigative documentary, the Mitchells reveal how this history has been covered over and erased from international public memory.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
