Turkish Comedian CEM YILMAZ will enthrall audiences at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on February 16, 2025 at 8:30 pm.
Get ready to laugh! After a long wait, famous comedian Cem Yılmaz is back on stage with his brand new show CMXXIV. Following his European tour, Yılmaz is bringing his hilarious comedy to North America. The North American leg of his tour will kick off in Toronto, Canada on February 12, followed by shows across Chicago, New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C. and Miami. Fans can look forward to experiencing fresh material on this original tour.
Cem Yılmaz (Turkish pronunciation: [ˈdʒem jɯɫˈmaz] is a Turkish actor, stand-up comedian, musician, filmmaker, screenwriter, and cartoonist. He has four franchise film series G.O.R.A., Karakomik Fimler, Organize İşler, Vizontele.
AWARDS
Along his professional career, he has won numerous awards and appeared in more than 4000 stand-up comedy shows, took part in 10 movies and contributed as a dubbing performer in 4 movies.
TURKEY’S CELEBRITY
Cem Yilmaz is a household name in Turkey. He is widely regarded as the face of Turkey’s stand-up comedy scene and is arguably Turkey’s most in-demand celebrity. His anecdotal humor and observational comedic style won him critical acclaim in his stand-up comedy act ‘Fundamentals.’ Since then, his career has blossomed into one of the most successful in entertainment. He is also widely respected as a filmmaker and actor.
Cem Yilmaz’ target audience runs the gamut from university students to taxi drivers – an achievement that cannot be overstated in a country all too often known for its deep cultural divide. This unique reach has undoubtedly been pivotal to his success. As a result, the Turkish box offices have been very kind to him; the vast majority of his films are instant blockbusters.
While Cem Yilmaz’ stand-up material is often Turkey-centric, his films have a considerable following abroad. Cem Yilmaz’ films are also popular in Germany, where a large Turkish-German expatriate community flock to his newest releases.
COMEDY
While studying at the Department of Tourism and Hotel Management of Bogazici University, he started drawing comics for the Turkish humor magazine ‘Leman.’ In August 1995 he did his first stand-up comedy show in Leman Culture Center in Istanbul, Turkey performing with no serious career intentions as a comedian. However, after the positive response of the audience, he continued his show to attract larger crowds in Besiktas Cultural Center, Istanbul where he has appeared in over a thousand stand-up comedy shows since, becoming so popular that tickets have sold for the equivalent of US$140.
FILM
His movie career started in 1998 with a co-starring role in the comedy ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Great’ (1998), directed by Ömer Vargi, and continued with a role in ‘Vizontele’ (2001), directed by Yilmaz Erdogan and Ömer Faruk Sorak. He achieved his greatest success by starring in and writing big-budget science-fiction parody G.O.R.A. (2004), also directed by Ömer Faruk Sorak, which became a box-office hit and described by Rekin Teksoy as a strong sign that showed that popular cinema was successful in appealing to wide audiences. He maintained this success with a starring role in the comedy feature movie ‘Magic Carpet Ride’ (2005) AKA ‘Magic Carpet Ride’, also directed by Yilmaz Erdogan, for which he won Best Supporting Actor at the 11th Sadri Alisik Awards, and his directorial debut with ‘The Magician’ (2006), co-directed by Ali Taner Baltaci, for which he won Best Actor at the 34th Brussels International Independent Film Festival and 12th Sadri Alisik Awards.
He has since repeated his box office success with a sequel to ‘G.O.R.A.’ (2004) called ‘A.R.O.G’ (2008), also co-directed by Ali Taner Baltaci, and comedy Western parody called ‘Yahsi Bati – The Ottoman Cowboys’ (2009), directed by Ömer Faruk Sorak. That same year, he co-starred, alongside veteran actor Sener Sen, in the police drama ‘Hunting Season’ (2010), written and directed by Yavuz Turgul, and made a special appearance in drama ‘Zefir’ (2010), written and directed by Belma Bas. After two years he also acted in Ferzan Özpetek’s ‘A Magnificent Haunting’ (2012). After he filmed his last stand-up comedy show ‘CM101MMXI Fundamentals’ (2013) directed by Murat Dündar, he took a break from stand-up comedy.
TICKETS
For tickets to witness Cem Yilmaz, visit NJPAC.org or the box office, or call 888.GO.NJPAC.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
Follow NJPAC Online:
Website: njpac.org
Twitter: @NJPAC
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Hashtag: #NJPAC
Facebook: facebook.com/NJPAC
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Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:
Website: njpac.org/takeastand
Hashtag: #NJPACTakeAStand
Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist
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NJYS HOSTS OPEN MUSIC REHEARSALS
Open Rehearsals students (Credit: whartonarts.org)
By Mabel Pais
The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS), a program of Wharton Arts, will host a week of free open rehearsals, February 23-27, at 570 Central Avenue in New Providence. Registration and more information can be found online at NJYS.org.
Young musicians in grades 2-11 from around the state are welcome to join this behind-the-scenes look at any of the 15 ensembles of NJYS. Participants can expect to experience the joy of making music in an ensemble setting, meet the passionate NJYS conductors, and immerse themselves in a live rehearsal.
2025 Open Rehearsals Week Schedule
February 23
Jazz Orchestra 1:00-3:30 PM
Jazz Workshop 3:00-4:00 PM
Big Band 3:00-4:00 PM
Faculty Concert 3:00 PM Parents Welcome!
February 24*
Flute Choir 5:00-5:40 PM
Flute Forum 6:30-7:10 PM
Fortissimo Flutes 8:00-8:40 PM
*Location: Wharton Performing Arts School 60 Locust Avenue, Berkeley Heights
February 25
Percussion Ensemble III 4:00-4:45 PM
Sinfonia 5:00-6:00 PM
Youth Symphony 6:30-8:00 PM
February 26
Philharmonia 6:15-7:15 PM
Clarinet Ensemble 6:30-7:00 pm
February 27
Primo Strings 4:30-5:15 PM
Percussion Ensemble II 4:30-5:15 PM
Percussion Ensemble I 6:30-7:15 PM
Concertino Strings 6:15-7:00 PM
Youth Orchestra 6:15-7:45 PM
Wharton Arts
Learn more at whartonarts.org
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
“An exhilarating showcase of marvels for the men and women of Momix, who cavort for their eagerly applauding audiences like so many skilled acrobats in their element…[they] gleam like gold.” – The Wall Street Journal
Get Ready to witness a night of spectacular dance and illusion with MOMIX-ALICE, a magical performance created by the dance company MOMIX on Sunday, January 26 at 7:00 p.m.
Momix performers (Credit:njpac.org)
Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, dancers transform into Caterpillars, White Rabbits, Mad Hatters, the Queen of Hearts, and other characters from the classic tale. With mind-bending acrobatics, mysterious illusions, and whimsical surprises, anything can happen on this adventure!
Under Moses Pendleton’s direction, MOMIX has wowed international audiences with work of exceptional inventiveness and physical beauty for 40 years.
The company returns to NJPAC for the first time since its presentation of ‘Best of MOMIX’ in 2019.
“I continue to be interested in using the human body to investigate non-human worlds,” says Moses Pendleton.
MOMIX, a company of dancer-illusionists under the direction of Moses Pendleton, works to create visually stunning and theatrical performances combining elaborate dances with spectacular props and costumes such as silks, skis, and visuals. The company has been featured on TV, film, and commercially and broadcast to 55 countries worldwide. Each performance pushes the body’s boundaries and reaches a point where dance and multimedia presentations have not yet gone before. As Pendleton explains, MOMIX endeavors to create pieces “using the human body to investigate non-human worlds…”
Momix performers (Credit:njpac.org)
Travel down the rabbit hole MOMIX-style with Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, Alice, inspired by ‘Alice in Wonderland.’ As Alice’s body grows and shrinks and grows again, Pendleton’s dancers extend themselves using props, ropes, and other dancers. In an endless search for another gravity, Pendleton combines athletic dance, riveting music, outrageous costumes, inventive props, and pure talent to create an entertaining multimedia experience that will surprise, enchant, and astonish. As Alice falls down the rabbit hole and experiences every kind of transformation, so will the audience.
A mix of breathtaking athleticism and stunning artistic beauty, MOMIX once again delivers a performance experience derived from the incredible Alice in Wonderland story that is sure to both amaze and delight audiences. Learn more at momix.com
TICKETS
Escape into a world of MOMIX make-believe by purchasing tickets at njpac.org or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office located at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey or calling 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
MOMIX
MOMIX, a company of dancer-illusionists founded and directed by Moses Pendleton, has been presenting work of exceptional inventiveness and physical beauty for more than 40 years. From its base in Washington, Connecticut, the company has developed a devoted worldwide following. In addition to stage performances, MOMIX has also worked in film and television, as well as corporate advertising, with national commercials for Hanes and Target, and presentations for Mercedes-Benz, Fiat, and Pirelli. With performances on PBS’s ‘Dance in America’ series, France’s Antenne II, and Italian RAI television, the company’s repertory has been beamed to 55 countries. The Rhombus Media film of Mussorgsky’s ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ with MOMIX and the Montreal Symphony was the winner of an International Emmy for Best Performing Arts Special. MOMIX was also featured in ‘IMAGINE,’ one of the first 3-D IMAX films released in IMAX theaters worldwide. MOMIX dancers Cynthia Quinn and Karl Baumann, under Moses Pendleton’s direction, played the role of ‘Bluey’ in the feature film ‘F/X2,’ and ‘White Widow,’ co-choreographed by Pendleton and Quinn, was featured in Robert Altman’s movie ‘The Company.’ With nothing more than light, shadow, fabric, props, and the human body, MOMIX continues to astonish and delight audiences on five continents. Learn more at momix.com.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
Follow NJPAC Online:
Website: njpac.org
Twitter: NJPAC
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Hashtag: NJPAC
Facebook: facebook.com/NJPAC
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Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:
Website: njpac.org/takeastand
Hashtag: NJPACTakeAStand
Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
The iconic PATTI LABELLE brings her 80/65 Tour to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC). The legendary singer, author, and actress, who has won multiple Grammy Awards, is celebrating 65 years in show business at 80 years young on February 8, 2025. Patti Labelle, also known as the ‘godmother of soul,’ will grace the NJPAC stage, performing all her chart-topping hits.
Her illustrious career began as the lead singer of the renowned group Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, later known as Labelle, and she achieved worldwide fame with the release of the disco classic ‘Lady Marmalade.’
LaBelle spent 16 years as lead singer of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, who changed their name to Labelle in the early 1970s and released the iconic disco song, ‘Lady Marmalade.’ LaBelle’s solo career she delivered unforgettable hits such as ‘On My Own,’ ‘If You Asked Me To,’ ‘Stir It Up,’ and ‘New Attitude’ and R&B ballads such as ‘You Are My Friend,’ ‘If Only You Knew’ and ‘Love, Need and Want You.’
With over 50 million records sold globally, Patti Labelle’s remarkable contributions have earned her a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Apollo Hall of Fame. Notably, Rolling Stone magazine recognized her as one of the ‘100 Greatest Singers.’
TICKETS
Tickets to see Patti Labelle are available by visiting NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or calling 888. G.O.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
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ACTOR-COMEDIAN-HUMANITARIAN CHRIS TUCKER RETURNS TO NJPAC FOR HIS VALENTINE’S SPECIAL
Chris Tucker (Credit: njpac.org)
By Mabel Pais
Following past multiple sold-out performances at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), internationally recognized, award-winning actor, producer and comedian CHRIS TUCKER will return for his latest headlining engagement on Valentine’s Evening. Get ready to share laughs with your loved one on Friday, February 14, 2025, at 8:00 p.m.
FILM
He is best known for his iconic roles of Detective James Carter in the blockbuster ‘Rush Hour’ action-comedy film series, starring opposite Jackie Chan under the direction of Brett Ratner and for his appearances on HBO’s ‘Def Comedy Jam.’
When Chris Tucker takes the stage, anything can happen. You know him from beloved films such as ‘Friday,’ ‘Jackie Brown,’ ‘Silver Linings Playbook,’ ‘AIR,’ ‘The Fifth Element,’ ‘Money Talks,’ and from ‘Def Comedy Jam.’
Most recently, Chris was seen on the big screen starring opposite Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and Viola Davis in the Amazon Studio hit ‘AIR.’ He currently appears in the Oscar nominated film ‘Silver Lining Playbook’ with Robert DeNiro, Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper.
PRODUCER/COMEDY
He has also made a name for himself as a producer with projects like the hit movie ‘Money Talks’ and the 2015 Netflix-exclusive stand-up film ‘Chris Tucker Live,’ marking the first project he starred in and produced through his own company, Chris Tucker Entertainment. He currently tours around the world performing live comedy shows, which have received rave reviews globally.
EARLY CAREER
Tucker’s career began in the early 1990s when he became a favorite on Russell Simmons’ HBO Def Comedy Jam. He then rose to prominence with his first starring role, in the 1995 cult classic Friday, alongside Ice Cube. In 1997, Tucker executive produced and co-starred with Charlie Sheen in the hit movie ‘Money Talks,’ directed by Ratner, and also appeared in Luc Besson’s globally successful sci-fi adventure ‘The Fifth Element.’ His other film credits include the Hughes brothers’ ‘Dead Presidents,’ Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Jackie Brown,’ David O’Russell’s award-winning hit ‘Silver Linings Playbook,’ and Ang Lee’s ‘Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.’
HUMANITARIAN
Beyond his professional achievements on stage and screen, Tucker is a dedicated humanitarian, spending much of his spare time traveling the world, doing charitable work through The Chris Tucker Foundation. By making a difference, he truly believes we are blessed to be a blessing.
TICKETS
Get ready to laugh your head off with your loved one at Christ Tucker’s Valentine Day’s Special, by visiting NJPAC.org or the box office, or calling 888.GO. NJPAC.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
NJPAC located in downtown Newark, N.J., is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. 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, which have reached almost 2 million children, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.
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:
Website: njpac.org/takeastand
Hashtag: NJPACTakeAStand
Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
“An outburst of pure joy…nothing less than spectacular.” – NJArts.net
A Newark tradition for over two decades, the Fort Lee-based company Nai-Ni Chen Dance returns to NJPAC to welcome the coming of the Spring of 2025, the Year of the Snake. The NAI-NI CHEN DANCE Company will celebrate the 2025 Lunar New Year of the Snake on Saturday & Sunday, February 1-2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., at the Victoria Theater of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center Street, Newark NJ, 07102.
Join Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company for spellbinding family matinee performances as it embraces the spirit of the Year of the Snake through the power and beauty of dance. A highlight of the winter season at NJPAC, this annual celebration weaves together graceful movements and vibrant costumes to bring ancient traditions to life. Audiences experience majestic dragons, dancing lions, elegant peacocks, stunning acrobats, twirling ribbons, and much more! In what has become an annual tradition, Nai-Ni Chen helps usher in an auspicious Lunar New Year, surrounded by the warmth of the Newark community, the joy of cultural celebration, and the spirit of renewal. The run time of the show will be 90 minutes including intermission.
Music with authentic Chinese musical instruments will be played in the program, performed by the Chinese Music Ensemble of New York (CMENY). The Company will premiere a new dance for the Year of the Snake with a collaboration using the music, ‘Dances of the Golden Snake.’ The new dance will be created by Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company’s Director of Traditional Dance and Preservation, Ying Shi. This unique live music/dance using Chinese instruments provides an experience that can only be seen in this program in the United States.
Dragon dance (Credit : nainichen.org)
‘LION IN THE CITY’ is based on the traditional Chinese Lion Dance, which is the most popular dance performed in the Chinese New Year Celebration. The Lion Dance is a prayer for peace on earth as a child is able to play with a ferocious beast in harmony. There are many styles of the Lion Dance in China. Last year, the Company was celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and memorializing the pioneering spirit of Nai-Ni Chen, who began working with Rokafella and Kwikstep in 2017, developing a dialogue between her contemporary/Chinese movement style and hip-hop. This dance was originally commissioned by the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in 2023. It is being repeated by popular demand.
SNAKE DUET (working title) is a new dance based on one of the most important legends about the snake in the Chinese tradition, the Legend of the White Snake. It is a love story about a powerful magical White Snake and her best friend the Green Snake coming to seek eternal love on earth but their journey suffered oppression and rejection for their identity. Long believed to be a story that advocates for women’s status in the traditionally male-dominated, ancient Chinese society, this dance shows the solidarity between the two snake women and their bond of sisterhood.
TIGER AND WATER LILIES was originally commissioned by Ballet Met in Cleveland. Nai-Ni Chen created Tiger and Water Lilies for ballet dancers, with movements that are within the range of contemporary ballet and yet emphasize some of the key aspects of Asian dance movements. The male and female dancers represent contrasting ideas of motion vs. stillness, animal vs. plant and strength vs. beauty.
Solo dancer (Credit : nainichen.org)
UNFOLDING is a dance based on the common heritage of the Chinese and Korean people. On the Korean flag is the symbol from I-Ching, the Book of Changes, which describes the laws of the changing universe in ancient China. I-Ching says, “The Tao is ever changing, alternating, moving without rest.” As nature unfolds at a vibrant pace, so does our life’s journey. This dance was originally commissioned by Dancing in the Streets in New York and premiered in the gardens of Wave Hill in the Bronx.
DRAGON FESTIVAL is based on the traditional Chinese Dragon Dance. The Dragon Dance is the most spectacular folk dance performed in the Chinese New Year Celebration. The Dragon carries auspicious powers and nature’s grace. The Chinese Dragon is a spiritual and cultural symbol that represents prosperity and good luck, as well as a water deity that nurtures harmony. It controls rainfall, rivers, and ocean. For those fortunate to see this dance in the Chinese New Year, their coming year will be filled with peace, harmony, and good fortune.
TICKETS
Tickets to celebrate the Year of the Snake Lunar can be purchased by calling 888. G.O.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or visiting the box office or njpac.org/event/nai-ni-chen-dance-company-year-of-the-snake.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
NJPAC, located in downtown Newark, N.J., is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. 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, which have reached almost 2 million children, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.
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:
Website: njpac.org/takeastand
Hashtag: NJPACTakeAStand
Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist.
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company
The celebration of the Lunar New Year is a spectacular experience for all ages, combining traditional Chinese celebrations with modern flair. The Company dancers, acrobats and musicians evoke the spirit of the Snake with festive costumes in red, gold, blue, and purple colors symbolizing their prayer for a peaceful and harmonious New Year with plenty of prosperity and good fortune. Learn more at nainichen.org.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)
PATTI LUPONE brings her latest show, ‘A Life In Notes’ to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.
In her new concert, ‘Patti LuPone: A Life in Notes,’ the three-time Tony Award winner performs an array of songs that are touchstones and reflections on her life growing up in America. The songs range from her youth during the burgeoning rock ‘n’ roll scene of the 1950s, to coming of age in the politically and socially turbulent ’60s, to eventually achieving success with both career and family.
THEATER
She is a three-time Tony Award winner for her performances as Joanne in Marianne Elliott’s award-winning production of the Stephen Sondheim George Furth musical ‘Company,’ Madame Rose in the most recent Broadway revival of the Jule Styne-Stephen Sondheim-Arthur Laurents classic ‘Gypsy’ and the title role in the original Broadway production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s ‘Evita.’
Her previous New York stage credits include War Paint (Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle nominations); Shows for Days; The Seven Deadly Sins (New York City Ballet); Company (New York Philharmonic); Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle nominations); Sweeney Todd (Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle nominations); Noises Off; Master Class; Anything Goes (Tony nomination and Drama Desk Award); Oliver!; Accidental Death of an Anarchist; and The Robber Bridegroom (Tony and Drama Desk nominations). Ms. LuPone has also enjoyed a long association with David Mamet, starring on Broadway in productions of his plays The Anarchist, The Old Neighborhood, and The Water Engine; off-Broadway productions of Edmond and The Woods; as well as his films Heist and State and Main.
In London, she starred on the West End in Company (Olivier Award and WhatsOnStage awards); Master Class; and created the role of Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard (Olivier nomination). She was the first American artist to win an Olivier Award for her performances in The Acting Company’s production of The Cradle Will Rock and as Fantine—a role she also created—in the Royal Shakespeare Company and subsequent West End world premiere production of Les Misérables.
Ms. LuPone made her debut with the LA Opera in Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny before returning to appear in the company’s production of The Ghost of Versailles. Her other operatic credits include Jake Heggie’s To Hell and Back for San Francisco’s Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and title role in Regina at the Kennedy Center.
A graduate of the first class of the Drama Division of New York’s Juilliard School and a founding member of John Houseman’s ‘The Acting Company.’
FILM
Her roles in film are in Ari Aster’s ‘Beau is Afraid’ opposite Joaquin Phoenix; ‘The School for Good and Evil’ (Netflix); ‘Last Christmas;’ ‘The Comedian;’ ‘Union Square;’ ‘Parker;’ ‘City by the Sea;’ ‘Just Looking;’ ‘Summer of Sam;’ ‘The 24 Hour Woman;’ ‘Family Prayers;’ ‘Driving Miss Daisy;’ ‘Witness.’
TELEVISION/STREAMING
Patti LuPone (Photo Credit : njpac.org)
On Television and Streaming platforms, she has appeared in ‘Hollywood’ (Netflix); ‘Pose;’ ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend;’ ‘Penny Dreadful’ (Critics Choice nomination); ‘Girls;’ ‘American Horror Story: Coven & NYC;’ ‘Law & Order;’ ‘SVU;’ ‘Glee;’ ‘30 Rock;’ PBS Great Performances: ‘The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny’ (Grammy Award for the broadcast’s recording); ‘Ugly Betty;’ ‘Will & Grace’ (as herself); PBS Great Performances’ ‘Candide;’ ‘Oz;’ the TNT film ‘Monday Night Mayhem;’ PBS’ Evening At The Pops’ with John Williams and ‘Yo Yo Ma;’ ‘Falcone;’ ‘Bonanno: A Godfather’s Story;’ ‘Frasier’ (1998 Emmy nomination); ‘Law & Order;’ ‘An Evening with Patti LuPone’ (PBS), the NBC movie ‘Her Last Chance,’ Showtime’s ‘The Song Spinner’ (Daytime Emmy nomination, Best Actress); ‘The Water Engine;’ ‘L.B.J.;’ AMC’s Remember ‘WENN;’ and ABC’s ‘Life Goes On.’
RECORDINGS
Recordings include ‘A Life in Notes,’ ‘Don’t Monkey with Broadway,’ ‘Far Away Places,’ ‘Patti LuPone at Les Mouches,’ ‘The Lady with the Torch,’ and many original cast recordings including, most recently: the West End production of Company, ‘War Paint,’ ‘Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown,’ ‘Gypsy,’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’ (both the 2006 Broadway revival cast recording and 2000 live performance recording on NY Philharmonic’s Special Editions Label).
AUTHOR
She is the author of the NY Times best-selling memoir ‘Patti LuPone: A Memoir.’
TICKETS
To experience Patti Lupone live at NJPAC, visit njpac.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC),
JPAC located in downtown Newark, N.J., is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. 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, which have reached almost 2 million children, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.
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:
Website: njpac.org/takeastand
Hashtag: #NJPACTakeAStand
Youtube: Standing in Solidarity playlist
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education.)
with Actors BHUSHAAN MANOJ, SURAAJ SUMAN, JAYSHRI JAGTAP
And many more
The SUNDANCE INSTITUTE has the list of 87 feature films and six episodic projects selected for the 2025 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL presenting its 41st year a revealing lineup of bold independent storytelling. The Festival (festival.sundance.org) will take place from January 23–February 2, 2025, in person in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, with all of the competition films and more available online from January 30–February 2, 2025, for audiences across the country.
Single Film Tickets (festival.sundance.org/tickets/in-person) for in-person and online screenings are on sale from January 16 at 10 a.m. MT. Members (sundance.org/support) have access to a Single Film Ticket pre-sale, and limited quantities of passes and packages remain on sale (sundance.org/support). Visit the Sundance Film Festival site for more information @ festival.sundance.org.
The 2025 Festival will commence on Thursday, January 23, with premieres in Park City every day through the end of Tuesday, January 28. Additional showings will take place in Park City and Salt Lake City throughout the Festival until Sunday, February 2. Over 11 days, world debuts of projects across program categories will highlight fresh voices, entertaining stories, and groundbreaking works.
Beginning January 30, more than half the feature program will be available online for audiences nationwide to watch from home festival.sundance.org. The curated online program will include all competition titles (U.S. Dramatic, U.S. Documentary, World Cinema Dramatic, World Cinema Documentary, and NEXT presented by Adobe), as well as additional selections from the feature, episodic, and Short Film Program presented by Vimeo.
The film lineup includes 87 feature-length films representing 33 countries and territories. The 2025 program is composed of 36 of 87 (41%) feature film directors who are first-time feature filmmakers. Ten of the feature films and projects selected were supported by Sundance Institute in development through direct granting or residency labs. This year the film and episodic slate includes 89 (or 96%) world premieres.
GALA AND HONOREES
The annual fundraising gala, Celebrating Sundance Institute (sundance.org/blogs/michelle-satter-to-be-honored-at-2025-sundance-film-festival-gala-celebrating-sundance-institute-presented-by-google-tv) presented by Google TV and honoring artists and art supporters, will take place on Friday, January 24, at the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley in Utah. The Sundance Film Festival Awards ceremony will be held on Friday, January 31, in Park City. In addition to the feature film and episodic lineup, the 2025 Festival will offer short film programs, compelling conversations and talks, and special events. Festival updates will be available throughout January.
The winner of the 2025 Alfred P. Sloan Feature Film Prize, an annual juried award granted to an artist with the most outstanding depiction of science and technology in a feature-length film. The prize has gone to ‘SALLY,’ screening in the Premieres category.
The 2025 Sundance Film Festival program was curated from 15,775 submissions from 156 countries or territories, including 4,138 feature-length films. Of these feature film submissions, 1,591 were from the U.S. and 2,547 were international. The six episodic projects were selected from 484 submissions. Director demographics are available in an editor’s note below.
For the complete Film & Event lineup, visit festival.sundance.org
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education.)
As a follow up to the ‘A Burning House: MLK and the American Experience’ hosted jointly by WNYC and The Apollo, MLK Young Changemakers host their event – ‘MLK YOUNG CHANGEMAKERS: FEEDING OUR FUTURE’ on January 20 at 3 pm. Doors open at 2:30 pm.
TICKETS
To reserve your pair of tickets, RSVP at apollo.formstack.com/forms/mlk_ycm_25 by 5pm on Friday, January 17th.
Please note: This is a limited complimentary offer for you and one guest, and is non-transferrable.
PROGRAM
WHEN: January 20, 2025 @ 3 PM; Doors open at 2:30
WHERE: The Apollo Stages at the Victoria
Apollo Education invites the community to join this year’s ‘MLK Young Changemakers’ event, honoring Dr. King’s powerful legacy in a modern context. MLK Young Changemakers is a series of conversations in recognition of Dr. King’s impact and the National Day of Service where local and national youth leaders will explore how environmental and food justice impact our lives and communities.
This year’s ‘MLK Young Changemakers: Feeding Our Future’ focuses on Dr. King’s lasting impact on modern environmental advocacy as young advocates honor Dr. King’s legacy that matters now: by tackling food and environmental justice head-on. Come to The Apollo Stages at The Victoria to support a new generation passionate about a better future. This is your chance to connect, speak up, and drive change.
This event is curated by The Apollo’s Apprentices.
( Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, Spirituality, The Arts and Entertainment, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education.)
Audience at an MLK Celebration Event. (Credit: apollotheater.org)
By Mabel Pais
WNYC Radio (NYC Public Radio) in collaboration with The Apollo Theater of Harlem will host the annual MLK event at The Apollo (as it’s popularly called), honoring Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday while exploring Dr. King’s enduring legacy through the lens of belonging, reflecting on his vision for a just and inclusive society. This takes place on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 2 pm. Doors open at 1 pm.
PROGRAM
WHEN: Sunday, January 19, 2025 @ 2:00 PM
WHERE: The Apollo, 253 West 125th Street New York, NY
DURATION: 1 hour 30 minutes
Through powerful conversations with prominent public intellectuals, community and faith leaders, authors and artists the organizers will ponder democracy and civil rights under a second Trump administration.
Featuring appearances from organizers Michael Hill, Janae Pierre, Brian Lehrer and Terrance McKnight.
Join the team for this inspiring tribute as we honor Dr. King’s dream and engage in a timely dialogue on the ongoing project of forging an equitable society.
RSVP & TICKETS
This event is free with RSVP. RSVP @ ticketmaster.com/wnyc-the-apollo-present-apollo-uptown-new-york-new-york-01-19-2025/event/00006179B91A182C.
Free tickets will be available starting Tuesday, Jan. 7.
For the schedule updates, visit apollotheater.org/event/uptown-hall-25.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will air on WNYC on Monday, January 20 at 2 pm and 8 pm.
The Apollo
The Apollo is an American cultural treasure. It is a vibrant non-profit organization rooted in the Harlem community that engages people from around New York, the nation, and the world. Since 1934, The Apollo has celebrated, created, and presented work that centers Black artists and voices from across the African Diaspora. It has also been a catalyst for social and civic advocacy. Today, The Apollo is the largest performing arts institution committed to Black culture and creativity.
The Apollo is a commissioner and presenter; catalyst for new artists, audiences, and creative workforce; and partner in the projection of the African American narrative and its role in the development of American and global culture.
WNYC
On July 8th, 1924, WNYC began broadcasting at 570 AM. In battle with other stations and the FCC, the frequency shifted over the years to 810 AM, 830 AM and finally to its present location at 820 AM.
The station added an FM antenna and transmitter on top of the Municipal Building and on March 13, 1943 began full operation on the “static-less” FM band. During the WWII and into the 1950s, WNYC was the city’s primary clearing house for civil defense information.
It also expanded its child-oriented programming while continuing to be a leader in classical and American music programming. In March 1995, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani agreed to sell WNYC AM and FM to the WNYC Foundation for $20 million. On January 7, 1997 the City transferred ownership of the licenses to the WNYC Foundation and on March 11, 1997, the licenses were assigned by the Foundation to WNYC Radio. The station strives to continue a legacy of innovative programs under the distinguished leadership of President and CEO Laura Walker, the first non-mayoral appointee in WNYC’s history. With the launch of wnyc.org in 1998, the station extended its virtual community internationally.
In October 2009 WQXR joined WNYC as part of the New York Public Radio family followed two years later by WNJT FM-Trenton, WNJB FM-Sussex, WNJY FM-Netcong, and WNJO FM-Toms River comprising New Jersey Public Radio and WQXQ in 2013. WNYC Studios were launched in 2015 as a major new multi-million-dollar investment to incubate talent and double down on podcasts.
Today, WNYC Radio (93.9 FM and 820 AM) is the most listened-to public radio station in the United States. With extraordinary support from listeners, corporations and foundations WNYC Radio is now independent of city government having paid for its broadcast licenses. WNYC is a member station of National Public Radio (NPR) and Public Radio International (PRI). Since 1940 WNYC and WQXR have been honored with 22 Peabody Awards and citations.
WNYC’s history of providing innovative and award-winning news, educational, cultural and public affairs programming reflects the enormous diversity and cultural depth of the New York metropolitan area.
To learn more about WNYC’s rich broadcast legacy go to Archives and Preservation.
“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
Xian Zhang. (Credit : njsymphony.org)
The New Jersey Symphony presents Holst’s ‘The Planets’ — An HD Odyssey with Music Director Xian Zhang conducting four performances at three locations in New Jersey.
PROGRAM
FIRST HALF
Opening the program is Caroline Shaw’s ‘The Observatory’ originally premiered by Xian Zhang with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. In 2013, Shaw became the youngest composer to receive the Pulitzer Prize in music. Also in the first half is Ralph Vaughan Williams’ ‘The Lark Ascending,’ which draws inspiration from George Meredith’s 1881 poem of the same name. The piece was originally composed for violin and piano in 1914 and was later reworked for violin and orchestra.
SECOND HALF
The second half of the program is devoted to Gustav Holst’s ‘The Planets’ — An HD Odyssey, a spectacular presentation of Holst’s cosmic masterpiece accompanied by breathtaking images of modern space exploration that showcase our solar system in a film by Duncan Copp, in cooperation with NASA and Jet Propulsion Laboratories.
Nancy Zhou. (Credit : njsymphony.org)
Nancy Zhou is set to appear in Vaughan Williams’ ‘The Lark Ascending.’ Holst’s ‘Planets’ will also feature Montclair State University Prima Voce, under the leadership of director Heather J. Buchanan.
PRE-PERFORMANCE EVENTS
On Friday, January 31, at 6:30 pm, the Symphony will host a Next Gen cocktail hour at Newark Local Beer prior to the performance. The Next Gen program is a free membership program for young music enthusiasts between the ages of 21 and 40. More information on the Next Gen program: njsymphony.org/nextgen.
A Classical Conversation will take place on Saturday, February 1, at 7 pm at NJPAC and Sunday, February 2, at 2 pm at Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown, prior to each performance. Concertgoers will be able to learn more about the music performed by Symphony musicians, guest artists and other engaging insiders.
Holst’s The Planets—An HD Odyssey
New Jersey Symphony Classical
Xian Zhang conductor
Nancy Zhou violin
Montclair State University Prima Voce | Heather J. Buchanan, director
New Jersey Symphony
New Brunswick – Thursday, January 30, 7:30 pm, State Theatre New Jersey
Newark – Friday, January 31, 8 pm, NJPAC
Newark – Saturday, February 1, 8 pm, NJPAC
Morristown – Sunday, February 2, 3 pm, Mayo Performing Arts Center
Caroline Shaw ‘The Observatory’
Ralph Vaughan Williams ‘The Lark Ascending’
Gustav Holst ‘The Planets’ — An HD Odyssey
For more information on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events.
TICKETS
For Tickets to the performance, call 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476) or visit njsymphony.org/events/detail/holsts-the-planetsan-hd-odyssey
Subscribe today! njsymphony.org/subscribe
Xian Zhang
Zhang has an exceptional ear for balance, as well as the ability to draw the softest, most transparent tones imaginable from the orchestra….With such skills and obvious audience appeal, Zhang should prove a valuable addition to the Met’s conduction staff.” – New York Classical Review
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 between 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.
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.
Nancy Zhou
Lauded as one of today’s probing musical voices, Nancy Zhou harbors a robust presence that seeks to invigorate appreciation for the art and science of the violin. Her thoughtful musicianship resonates with a global audience in such a way that brings her on stage with leading orchestras and performing artists around the world.
Zhou has collaborated with several Philharmonics and Symphonies around Europe and America. Alongside projects as a soloist, she harbors keen interest in chamber music and music education. She has performed for Music Festivals, she devotes time to a studio as well, teaching students across the globe and presenting masterclasses on fundamental training and cultivating mindful awareness critical to performance.
In recent seasons, Zhou has often championed works outside the traditional oeuvre. In collaboration with the New Jersey Symphony and conductor Xian Zhang, she presented Zhao Jiping’s first violin concerto at Alice Tully Hall. Zhou has toured the US and China performing concertos exploring the intersection of various art forms and, indeed, music and culture.
Zhou recorded her debut album for Orchid Classics featuring solo violin repertoire including Bartók’s Sonata for Solo Violin. The record will be released in June 2025.
American-born, Zhou commenced violin studies with her father, later studying with Miriam Fried at the New England Conservatory while simultaneously pursuing her interest in literature at Harvard University. She is additionally an Associated Artist at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel. Learn more at nancyzhouviolin.com
Montclair State University Prima Voce | Heather J. Buchanan, director
Under the direction of Australian-born conductor Heather J. Buchanan since September 2003, the Montclair State University (MSU) choral program has been recognized for successful collaborations with world-renowned artists and celebrated professional musicians in national and international venues.
Prima Voce is an extra-curricular, SSAA (soprano, soprano, alto) project choir at Montclair State University’s John J. Cali School of Music with membership drawn from University Singers, Chorale and alumnae. The choir is directed by Dr. Heather J. Buchanan, a professor at the school. Pianist Steven W. Ryan is the Montclair choral accompanist.
The 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.
In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026. For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit its 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, Business, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Education)
The Bethany Baptist Church of Newark celebrates 25 years of monthly Jazz Vespers!
By Mabel Pais
Join the community at Bethany Baptist for this free concert combining jazz music and worship. This takes place on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 6 PM at the Bethany Baptist Church at 275 W Market St, Newark, NJ 07103 (Phone – 973 623 8161).
January’s featured artists are the “musical power couple” (New York Times) Adegoke Steve Colson and Iqua Colson. Despite their international acclaim, the composer-pianist and vocalist-composer are deeply rooted in New Jersey, and have played an integral role in advancing jazz education across the state. This is a particularly meaningful return to the Bethany Baptist stage for Adegoke, who led the first Jazz Vespers ensemble at the inaugural concert 25 years ago. JazzTimes says the Colsons’ music “…draws you in with gaiety and swing and then hits you with more substance that you’d bargained for…Sharp ears, spot-on improvisational acumen and impeccable musical intelligence are the order of the day.”
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IS MASS INCARCERATION A PERVASIVE SOCIAL ISSUE?
By Mabel Pais
While New Jersey has reduced its prison population by more than 50 percent since 2011, mass incarceration remains a pervasive social issue that disproportionately impacts people of color.
This month’s ‘Standing in Solidarity’ conversation, curated by the ACLU of New Jersey, discusses the need for a reimagined legal system. What are proven strategies for ensuring public safety? How can measures such as the elimination of extreme sentences and implementation of clemency create a more equitable criminal justice system?
The film to watch is ‘The Prison Within,’ an award-winning documentary about how a restorative justice program at the San Quentin State Prison, California transforms the lives of prisoners and survivors of violence.
REGISTRATION & PARTICIPATION
It is free to participate. Registration is required to participate.
Register at njpac.org/event/reforming-our-prison-systems/#register.
Watch ‘The Prison Within’ for free at home (a link will be emailed in advance)
Join the team for a virtual panel discussion on Monday, Jan 13, at 7PM
PANELISTS & MODERATOR
(extreme left) Amol Sinha with panelists (Credit : njpac.org)
MODERATOR
The panel will be moderated by Amol Sinha, Executive Director of the ACLU of New Jersey.
PANELISTS
LUIS ANGEL TORRES RODRIGUEZ, Founder and Executive Director of the non-profit Societal Bridge, Inc., a recruitment service company that provides comprehensive employment opportunities for Returning Citizens.
JENNIFER SELLITTI, a Public Defender who began her legal career working on the Prison Brutality Project at Massachusetts Correctional Legal Services.
REBECCA UWAKWE, Director of the Clemency Project and Senior Staff Attorney at the ACLU of New Jersey.
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EXPLORE TECHNIQUES OF PREPPING FOR SELF-TAPED AUDITION
The ‘Creator’s Room’ exploration of audition techniques continues with the dos and don’ts of a self-taped audition. What do I wear? What’s the best background and recording device? Do I need a ring light?
The NJPAC Center for Arts Education’s panel of theater professionals will answer your most pressing questions and will explain the value of a self-tape versus an in-person audition. They will also demystify the process and share helpful tips. Attendees will be able to film self-tape examples on site and put these pro tips into action.
Moderator
JOSEF WOODSON
Josef Woodson is the Creative Lead for Onsite Programs at NJPAC, specializing in Musical Theater, Acting, and Hip Hop. He holds a degree in Dance from the University of Michigan and has trained in ballet, jazz, modern, and hip hop at prestigious institutions such as the Joffrey School, The Ailey School, and Steps on Broadway.
His performance career includes work with Ailey II, Donald Byrd/The Group, Tokyo Disney, Walt Disney World, Royal Caribbean, Sokolow Now! Contemporary Dance Company, and SKIN Dance Company. Josef has taught modern, jazz, tap, ballet, and hip hop in both the U.S. and internationally, with notable roles at AileyCamp and as an Alvin Ailey Performing Artist for the New York Board of Education.
Currently a senior Teaching Artist at Disney Theatrical Group on Broadway, Josef has also been the Artistic Director of NJPAC’s summer programs for two years. His passion for movement extends to group fitness and Zumba. He is the Managing Director of SKIN Dance Company and the Creative Director for the musical ‘Josephine’s Cotton.’
PANELISTS
MALCOLM MINOR
A Newark, NJ, native, Minor is an actor, singer, poet and public speaking coach who has performed on stages from NJPAC and Madison Square Garden to 54 Below and Radio City Music Hall. He holds a bachelor’s in theater from Ramapo College of New Jersey and a master’s in acting from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. He has been featured at the National Black Theater Festival, JagFest 4.0 and the Williamstown Theater Festival. His voice is audible on Amazon Prime and other award-winning short films and web series. Currently, Minor is a finalist in the renowned Actors Studio.
KRISTEN PALADINO
Kristen Paladino is an industry-celebrated Casting Director and founder of Paladino Casting. With over 20 years in business, Paladino is renowned for a notable portfolio of projects that encompass the most compelling storytellers and exceptional actors from New York City, Los Angeles and beyond. Sought after for her expertise, she elevates projects by discovering and developing exceptional and diverse talent. Her films have been screened at the world’s top festivals including Sundance, AFI, Tribeca, Cannes, SXSW, Venice Biennial, LA Film Fest, NYFF, Slamdance, Palais De Tokyo and many more. TV series include Team Umizoomi for Nickelodeon, El Deafo for Apple TV, as well as shows for Disney+ and commercial campaigns for brands such as Haribo, Apple, Maybelline, Jeep, Nike, Huggies, Valentino, Adidas, PepsiCo, LEGO and Sony, to name a few. Paladino and her gifted team at Paladino Casting are at the forefront of the casting and entertainment world.
INGRID JENSEN
Ingrid Jensen has been hailed as one of the most gifted trumpeters of her generation. Following a 1989 graduation from the Berklee College of Music, Jensen recorded three highly acclaimed CDs for the ENJA record label. She has performed with a multigenerational cast of jazz legends ranging from Herbie Hancock to Clark Terry and Esperanza Spalding. Jensen also performed alongside British R&B artist Corrine Bailey Rae on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and recorded with Canadian pop icon Sarah McLachlan. Jensen is prominently featured on the GRAMMY® Award-winning ‘The Mosaic Project,’ led by drummer Terri-Lyne Carrington. A dedicated jazz educator, Jensen has resided on the jazz trumpet faculties at the University of Michigan, Peabody Conservatory, Manhattan School of Music, Purchase College and the School of Jazz and Contemporary Music at The New School in New York City. She is currently the Dean and Director of Jazz Arts at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
Learn more at NJPAC.org
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Business, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Education)
Wharton Arts’ musicians will present A Concert for Peace with ‘Violins of Hope,’ a poignant tribute to human resilience and the power of music, on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark.
Led by Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Helen H. Cha-Pyo, this special concert showcases the extraordinary ‘Violins of Hope,’ precious stringed instruments that survived the Holocaust. These instruments, some of which were played by prisoners of ghettos and death camps, have been meticulously restored by Israeli luthiers Amnon and Avshi Weinstein. Today, they serve as symbols of survival and perseverance, bringing hope to audiences worldwide. Join us for an unforgettable performance of remembrance, reflection, and renewal as we commemorate the resilience of the human spirit and honor the legacy of those who perished in the Holocaust.
The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS) will perform works by Felix Mendelssohn, Paul Frucht, David Winkler, and Leonard Bernstein. During the rise of Hitler’s Third Reich in the twentieth century, Mendelssohn’s music was banned by the Nazis and his statue in Leipzig was destroyed (now rebuilt). Two ensembles of the New Jersey Youth Chorus, Coriste and Camerata, along with the Harmonium Choral Society, will join NJYS on stage, along with guest artists Asi Matathias and GRAMMY winner Ranaan Meyer.
“The Concert for Peace with Violins of Hope is more than just a performance—it’s a profound tribute to the enduring stories of human resilience, carried by these precious violins,” said Helen H. Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor. “Through the voices of Wharton Arts youth musicians, a combined intergenerational chorus, and newly composed works performed alongside award-winning soloists, we bring these stories to life, ensuring their legacy inspires and uplifts generations to come.”
Wharton Arts Trustee Courtney Pantirer said, “Each instrument comes with a history of its owner which is an incredible way to share their story, the story of European Jewry, and to keep their memories alive. Now more than ever it is important to educate and teach this new generation. We are so excited to bring this incredible concert to our communities in New Jersey and be able to educate about the Holocaust while looking to the future.”
TICKETS & MORE INFORMATION
For Tickets and more information, visit WhartonArts.org
Ticket holders are invited to a free pre-concert talk with luthier Avshi Weinstein and display of Violins of Hope at 1:30 p.m.
A roundtable talk with a display of the instruments will take place on January 11 at 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required at WhartonArts.org.
Wharton Arts
Learn more at WhartonArts.org
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THIBAUDET PLAYS RAVEL WITH NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY AND EDUSEI CONDUCTS
THIBAUDET (Credit: njpac.org)
By Mabel Pais
JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET is set to perform with the New Jersey Symphony this January 9-12. Kevin John Edusei will conduct the four performances. The performances will take place at New Jersey locations, January 9-12 (see program below).
The program begins with Donghoon Shin’s ‘Of Rats and Men,’ which draws inspiration from two short stories: Franz Kafka’s ‘Josefine, die Sängerin oder Das Volk der Mäuse’ (‘Josephine the Singer, or the Mouse Folk’) and the Chilean writer Roberto Bolaño’s ‘Police Rat.’ Shin’s piece makes use of the entire orchestra’s instrumentation while maintaining a transparency that allows different layers of sound to emerge.
The first half of the program closes with Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G, a work built upon broad musical influences. The sprightly outer movements feature jazz and blues influences, while Ravel drew inspiration from Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet for the central, beautifully simple slow movement.
The second half of the program features Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2, which was composed between 1901 and 1902. Arguably Sibelius’ best-known work, the Second Symphony is known for its unconventional first movement form and the stirring nationalistic hymn that forms the main thrust of the finale.
PROGRAM
Jean-Yves Thibaudet Plays Ravel
New Jersey Symphony Classical
Kevin John Edusei conductor
Jean-Yves Thibaudet piano
New Jersey Symphony
Newark – Thursday, January 9, 1:30 pm, New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Princeton – Friday, January 10, 8 pm, Richardson Auditorium
Newark – Saturday, January 11, 8 pm, New Jersey Performing Arts Center
New Brunswick – Sunday, January 12, 3 pm, State Theatre New Jersey
Donghoon Shin Of Rats and Men
Maurice Ravel Piano Concerto in G
Jean Sibelius Symphony No. 2
For more information on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events.
Kevin John Edusei
EDUSEI (Credit: kevinjohnedusei.com)
Highlights of Kevin John Edusei’s 2024–25 season include debuts with the New York Philharmonic, Konzerthausorchester Berlin, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Taiwan Philharmonic Orchestra and at the Musikverein with the Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra.
A strong advocate of contemporary music, Edusei’s carefully curated programs across the 2024–25 season include premieres of works by Hannah Kendall, Thomas Larcher, Samy Moussa, Brian Nabors, Derrick Skye and Gabriella Smith.
Learn more at kevinjohnedusei.com, X: @kevinjohnedusei & Facebook: facebook.com/kevinjohnedusei.conductor
Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Over three decades, through elegant musicality and an insightful approach to contemporary and established repertoire, Jean-Yves Thibaudet has earned a reputation as one of the world’s finest pianists. He is especially known for his diverse interests beyond the classical world, including numerous collaborations in film, fashion and visual art. He is a devoted educator and the first-ever artist-in-residence at the Colburn School, which awards several scholarships in his name.
A prolific recording artist, Thibaudet has appeared on more than 70 albums and six film scores; his extensive catalog has received two GRAMMY nominations, two ECHO Awards, the Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik, the Diapason d’Or, the CHOC du Monde de la Musique, the Edison Prize and Gramophone awards.
Learn more at jeanyvesthibaudet.com
The 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.
In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026.
Connect with NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Business, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Education)
The New Jersey Symphony will present a special performance for the 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration ringing in the Year of the Snake. Music Director Xian Zhang will conduct the performance on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 7:30 pm at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
The orchestral Celebration Concert will then feature a program that blends Eastern and Western musical traditions. Xian Zhang will conduct the New Jersey Symphony, who will be joined by pianist Min Kwon, tenor Michael Fabiano, the Peking University Alumni and Starry Arts Children’s Choruses and the Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team.
First developed by Zhang in 2019, the Lunar New Year Celebration weaves together the best in classical music from the East and the West. Zhang leads a program that includes Li Huanzhi’s ‘Spring Festival Overture,’ selections from Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23, ‘Arirang,’ ‘Yuan Ri,’ ‘The Red Dragonfly’ arranged by Nicholas Hersh and Puccini’s ‘E Lucevan le stelle’ from ‘Tosca’ and selections from ‘Turandot.’
Min Kwon and Michael Fabiano are set to perform, with special appearances from Starry Arts Children’s Chorus and Peking University (PKU) Alumni Chorus, which consists of former members of PKU’s student choir alongside singers from the Chinese community in New York and New Jersey. The evening will also feature a performance by the Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team.
Earlier this year, the Symphony held a composition competition and invited New Jersey-based composers of all backgrounds, ages and ability levels to submit their own solo piano arrangement of the Korean folk song ‘Arirang.’ Patricio Molina, the winner of the competition, will have his arrangement performed at the concert by pianist Min Kwon. Leading up to the performance, Molina will also participate in at least one workshop with Kwon.
PROGRAM
All ticket holders are invited to attend a pre-concert Cultural Exchange Festival in the Prudential Hall lobby that will feature artisans and performers from Prince Kung’s Palace Museum in Beijing. Gates will open at 6 pm.
2025 Lunar New Year Celebration with Xian Zhang
Celebration of the Year of the Snake
Xian Zhang conductor
Min Kwon piano
Michael Fabiano tenor
Peking University Alumni Chorus
Starry Arts Children’s Chorus | Rebecca Shen, director
Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team
New Jersey Symphony
Newark – Saturday, January 25, 7:30 pm, New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Li Huanzhi Spring Festival Overture
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Selections from Piano Concerto No. 23
Traditional arr. Patricio Molina Arirang
Traditional ‘Yuan Ri’
Traditional arr. Nicholas Hersh ‘The Red Dragonfly’
Giacomo Puccini ‘E Lucevan le stelle’ from ‘Tosca’
Giacomo Puccini Selections from ‘Turandot’
For more information and updates on concerts and tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events.
TICKETS
To purchase tickets to the Concert, visit my.njsymphony.org.
Concert Tickets
Saturday, January 25 – Gates Open at 6 pm
Cultural Exchange Festival
Welcome the Year of the Snake with a cultural exchange.
The event commences with a Cultural Exchange Festival in a tradition that invites all audience members to a celebration of community and cultural exchange before the concert. This year’s event will feature artisans and performers from Prince Kung’s Palace Museum in Beijing.
7:30 pm: Celebration Concert in Prudential Hall
VIP tickets
5:30 pm: Cultural Exchange Festival & VIP Reception
VIP ticket holders will receive early access to the festival before it opens to the public.
VIPs will sip cocktails and savor a tasty dinner buffet at the VIP reception, which overlooks the lobby festival and performances.
To purchase VIP Tickets, visit njsymphony.org/events/detail/2025-lunar-new-year-celebration-vip-event
SPONSORSHIP
For sponsorship details, visit njsymphony.org/assets/doc/LNY25-Sponsorship-Brochure-121323-2-d6f122b47b.pdf
Xian Zhang
Zhang has an exceptional ear for balance, as well as the ability to draw the softest, most transparent tones imaginable from the orchestra….With such skills and obvious audience appeal, Zhang should prove a valuable addition to the Met’s conduction staff.” – New York Classical Review.
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 between 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.
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.
Min Kwon (Credit : NJ Symphony)
Min Kwon
“To say the audience was thrilled with the performance would be an understatement of high order…..a truly grand performance. – The Daily Performance.”
Korean-born American pianist Min Kwon excels in a versatile career that encompasses concerti, solo recitals and chamber music appearances, while in high demand around the world as pedagogue, arts advocate and administrator. She has held professional engagements in over 60 countries on seven continents and all 50 US states.
Professor of piano at Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers University since 2002, Dr. Kwon is also the founder and director of the Center for Musical Excellence (CME), a non-profit dedicated to mentoring and supporting gifted young musicians. As artistic director of ‘Music Made Here,’ a concert series inaugurated in 2018 and ‘CME in Harding Homes,’ Kwon brings world class talent to intimate venues.
As soloist, Kwon has performed extensively in Europe, North and South America and Asia, with such orchestras as Philadelphia, North Carolina, Atlanta, New Jersey and Fort Worth and more. Among the distinguished conductors with whom she has collaborated are James Conlon, Stanislaw Skrowaczewski, Alan Gilbert, Vaktang Jordania, Gerhardt Zimmerman and Xian Zhang.
As recitalist, Kwon has performed at Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall, where she returns each year as artistic director of critically acclaimed, themed concerts featuring Rutgers pianists.
An avid chamber musician, she has performed in numerous duo and chamber recitals around the world including recent appearances in New York, Madrid, Rome, Curaçao, Malaysia, Vienna, Prague, Luxembourg and Serbia.
With her sister, violinist Yoon Kwon (first violin at the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra), she has given over 200 recitals on Community Concert Tours (CAMI).
In addition to her collaboration with Yoon Kwon on concert tours, the duo made a recording for RCA Red Seal/BMG in 1996 as the first Koreans to do so in the Company’s 100-year history.
A recent release, ‘CME Presents: Piano Celebration’—for which she was producer, artistic director and performer—celebrates composers and pianists from 17 countries.
Kwon holds Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music degrees from The Juilliard School and a Bachelor of Music degree from The Curtis Institute of Music, completing post-doctoral studies in Salzburg. From 2015–2018, she served on the Juilliard Council as the first and only alumnus/a to be invited. She counts among her teachers and mentors Eleanor Sokoloff, Martin Canin, Leon Fleisher, Hans Leygraf, Dorothy DeLay, Jerome Lowenthal and Leif Ove Andsnes. Kwon is a Steinway Artist.
Michael Fabiano
Born in Montclair, New Jersey, this tenor of Italian descent attended the University of Michigan and the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia. He was the recipient of the 2014 Beverly Sills Artist Award and the 2014 Richard Tucker Award, Fabiano is the first singer to win both awards in the same year. Learn more at michaelfabianotenor.com.
Peking University Alumni Chorus
Peking University (PKU) Alumni Chorus was founded in 2014. It consists of former members of PKU Student Choir and seasoned singers from the Chinese community in the Greater New York area. In the past nine years, the ensemble has performed at every Chinese New Year Concert organized by PKU Alumni Association of Greater New York, as well as made appearances at major stages in the New York area such as Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center and Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center. In 2019, the chorus performed Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with other choruses at the Church of St. Paul the Apostle and Carnegie Hall. In February 2019, the chorus appeared in the New Jersey Symphony’s first Lunar New Year concert. This year marks the seventh consecutive year of collaboration between the chorus and the NJ Symphony.
Conductor and pianist Conrad Chu has served as the chorus’ conductor since 2016 being well-versed in opera, orchestral and choral repertoire, with a strong affinity for contemporary styles. Learn more at english.pku.edu.cn.
Starry Arts Children’s Chorus
In 2015, violin educator and experienced children’s choir conductor Rebecca Xiaoxing Shen founded the Starry Arts Group Children’s Chorus. The chorus regularly performs at a variety of community events, including at libraries, nursing homes, care centers and multicultural festivals, earning widespread praise. From 2019 to 2023, the chorus was invited to collaborate with the New Jersey Symphony for five consecutive years, performing at the Lunar New Year Celebration Concert at NJPAC, where it received enthusiastic applause at each performance. In September 2023, it was invited to perform as part of a thousand-person choir at the “World Culture Festival” in Washington, DC Most recently, the chorus won first place in the group competition at the Global Elite Talent Competition, which concluded in January 2024.
Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team
Lunar New Year, Lion Dance Team (Credit : NJ Symphony)
The Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team was founded in 2014 by Peter Shen with the goal of using lion dance as a cultural ambassador to share Chinese traditions with the community. Combining both dance and martial arts, the team regularly performs at significant events such as Chinese New Year celebrations, National Day, and other important occasions.
The team’s coach, David Shen, is a professional dancer and martial artist. He has choreographed many pieces for the young performers, tailoring each to fit the specific event and the needs of the group.
Over the years, the team has performed at a variety of venues, including libraries, parks, schools, senior centers and other locations, bringing the rich Chinese cultural heritage to diverse audiences.
The 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.
In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026. For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit the website at njsymphony.org or the newsroom for press releases and photos.
Connect with NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Business, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Education)
There were plenty of things that went wrong for Hollywood in the year 2024. There were box office flops (sorry, “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “Kraven the Hunter”), mass layoffs, continued labor unrest and a stunning lack of employment in the production space due to a broad contraction in the media and entertainment sector.
But not everything, or everyone, failed.
Disney gets its mojo back
Bob Iger came into 2024 with a challenging hand — a low stock price, a money-losing streaming business, a renewed proxy campaign from a prominent investor and a movie slate with only one Marvel Studios film. But while Disney is not fully in the clear yet, the company has emerged much stronger than many people expected.
Iger decisively beat the onslaught from Nelson Peltz and his hard-charging allies. The movie studio, which had a wobbly track record during the post-pandemic years, scored two $1-billion hits — “Inside Out 2” and “Deadpool and Wolverine” — and other big performers including “Moana 2” and “Alien: Romulus.” The stock is up more than 25% since the beginning of the year. Cable programmer and Hulu supplier FX dominated the TV awards season with “Shogun” and “The Bear.” And those streaming services? They’ve started turning quarterly profits, when all put together.
Yeah, sure, you might say. But serious questions remain in Disney’s comeback story. For example, how will ESPN’s upcoming flagship streaming service fare when it launches next year?
And here’s the big one: Who’s going to replace Iger when he steps down for good this time? Will it be one of the four division heads: TV chair Dana Walden, parks boss Josh D’Amaro, ESPN head Jimmy Pitaro or film czar Alan Bergman? Or an outsider? With James P. Gorman (Morgan Stanley‘s outgoing executive chairman) leading the succession process, Disney is hoping this transfer of power is less dramatic than previous rounds.
We’ll see in due time, as the company has set early 2026 as its target for making its selection.
David Ellison conquers the mountain
The deal almost fell apart, but after so much wrangling, Paramount Global will soon have a new chief: David Ellison, the son of Oracle Corp. billionaire Larry Ellison.
The task of fixing all that broke at Paramount under the Redstone family won’t be easy. Years of chronic under-investment won’t be overcome immediately, no matter how much techno know-how Ellison and his team bring to the famed Paramount movie studio, CBS, a second-tier streaming service and a collection of faltering cable networks. Cost cutting has already come and discussions about restructuring and leadership changes are underway.
Paramount has franchises like “Sonic the Hedgehog,” “Top Gun” and the Taylor Sheridan universe, but it needs more, and it needs to do more with what it has, according to Ellison and his private equity backers at RedBird. Easier said than done. But the industry is ready to give Ellison a chance. After all, he’s a movie guy.
This clearly won’t be the last of the big studio deals. Analysts expect more consolidation as cable channels continue to lose power, especially with the Trump administration anticipated to be more favorable to mergers and acquisitions than the Biden White House.
The movie musical makes a comeback
No one mourns the wicked, and no one should fear the movie musical. Universal Pictures and Jon M. Chu’s big-screen rendering of the Broadway smash “Wicked” has made hundreds of millions of dollars at the box office (mostly in the U.S.) and instantly catapulted Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo into the Oscar race. “Part Two,” now titled “Wicked: For Good,” comes out next year.
The movie musical is a tradition as old as Hollywood itself, but the genre had come on hard times in recent years, thanks to flops such as “Cats,” “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Color Purple.” Despite the success of movies such as “Wonka” and “The Greatest Showman,” studios seemed nervous to advertise the musical elements of their song-and-dance extravaganzas. Well, no need this time. If anyone went into “Wicked” not knowing it was a musical, that’s on them.
Studios should know musicals aren’t a turn-off for audiences, especially if fans are already obsessed with the soundtrack. That level of familiarity is what helped propel the record-breaking box office opening weekend of “Moana 2.” (Animation has been a true bright spot for the movie business, with the “Inside Out” sequel, “Despicable Me 4” and “The Wild Robot”).
Funnily enough, “Wicked” isn’t the only musical in the awards conversation. Netflix’s big contender is the operatic “Emilia Pérez,” a boundary-pushing festival darling that received mostly positive reviews but a tepid response from streaming audiences.
Podcasters shake up news media
Politicians doing podcast interviews and nonpolitical media appearances is not a new phenomenon. The latter is a tradition going back to Richard Nixon going on “Laugh-In” and Bill Clinton playing the sax on “The Arsenio Hall Show.”
But for President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign, sitting for long, friendly podcast interviews wasn’t just part of the Republican presidential candidate’s media strategy. It was the strategy. Trump talked at length to Joe Rogan, Theo Von and the “Flagrant” guys Andrew Schulz and Akaash Singh, all to target their loyal audience of young men. Trump did this while avoiding traditional outlets like “60 Minutes,” which he sued over how it edited its interview with his opponent.
Vice President Kamala Harris’ failed campaign also used podcasts like Alex Cooper’s “Call Her Daddy,” while still doing more standard TV appearances. Hindsight suggests her interview on “The View,” in which she couldn’t say what she would’ve done differently from President Biden, might’ve done more harm than good.
The biggest takeaway? The declining relevance of legacy news media as a force that can shape public opinion — a consequence of declining viewership and historically low trust in mainstream institutions.
2024 proved to be a roller-coaster year for Bollywood. Following the blockbuster-filled 2023, expectations soared, but the industry found itself struggling to deliver consistent hits. While some films soared to record-breaking heights, others stumbled, leaving audiences and producers disappointed. This year saw the rise of pan-India films, a trend that is starting to redefine the Indian box office and bringing audiences together like never before.
Here’s an in-depth analysis of the hits, flops, and trends that defined Bollywood in 2024.
Bollywood hits of 2024: The bright spots in a dull year
While the first half of the year struggled to produce notable successes, the second half reignited Bollywood’s box office fortunes. Leading the charge were crowd-pullers like Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and Singham Again, which brought audiences back to theatres.
Stree 2
Releasing on Independence Day, Stree 2 emerged as the year’s biggest hit, raking in Rs 627.02 crore at the box office. The much-anticipated sequel to the 2018 horror-comedy not only shattered records but also reinforced Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao’s bankability. The movie’s mix of humour and scares connected with audiences across the country, turning it into a cultural sensation.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
Kartik Aaryan’s return to the horror-comedy genre was met with roaring applause. With Vidya Balan reprising her iconic role and Madhuri Dixit joining the cast, the film delivered a stellar Rs 278.42 crore. Its clash with Singham Again didn’t dent its performance, proving the popularity of the franchise.
Singham Again
Ajay Devgn returned to his most iconic role as Bajirao Singham in this Rohit Shetty-directed cop drama. Packed with star power, including Kareena Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, and Deepika Padukone, Singham Again held its ground during the Diwali weekend, collecting Rs 268.35 crore.
Fighter
Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone’s aerial action thriller lived up to the hype, amassing Rs 205.55 crore. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film set a new benchmark for action choreography in Bollywood.
Bollywood’s biggest flops of 2024
2024 was a tough year for big-screen releases, proving that even star power and massive budgets can’t guarantee success. Films like Akshay Kumar’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Alia Bhatt’s Jigra struggled to make a mark at the box office, reminding everyone that a strong, engaging story matters more than a glittering cast or a hefty production budget.
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan
One of the year’s most expensive productions, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan brought together Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff but failed to translate the star power into box office numbers. Poor storytelling and lacklustre execution led to its downfall.
Jigra
Alia Bhatt’s much-hyped Jigra became a cautionary tale for filmmakers, grossing Rs 30.69 crore despite claims of box office fraud. Despite Alia’s outstanding performance, the film failed to resonate with audiences due to poor plot and execution.
Sarfira
Akshay Kumar’s performance in Sarfira was praised, but weak marketing and stiff competition from Stree 2 limited its earnings to just Rs 22.13 crore.
South film takes centre stage
The year 2024 was the big year for South Indian cinema, especially Telugu films. These films not only wowed audiences in their home states, but they also dominated the Hindi-speaking market, frequently exceeding Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters and proving that great storytelling transcends language barriers.
Pushpa 2: The Rule
Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 was a juggernaut, with the movie collecting Rs 618.50 crore. Its gripping storyline, mass appeal, and chart-topping music made it an unstoppable force at the box office.
Kalki, 2898 AD
This sci-fi epic starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan defied expectations with its pan-India appeal. The film grossed Rs 294.25 crore, setting new standards for the genre.
What was the reason for Bollywood’s struggles in 2024?
The superstar gap
Unlike 2023, which saw Shah Rukh Khan, Sunny Deol, and Ranbir Kapoor deliver enormous hits, 2024 lacked a continuous superstar-driven blockbuster.
Weak scripts
Audiences rejected films that failed to offer compelling narratives, regardless of star power.
Re-releases shine
Movies like Rockstar and Tumbbad surprisingly outshined the latest releases, proving that audiences are still craving powerful, well-told stories over flashy new titles.
Bollywood in 2025
The upcoming year holds promise with an exciting lineup, including:
– Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi’s Jolly LLB 3
– Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR’s War 2
– Sunny Deol’s Lahore 1947
– Ajay Devgn’s Raid 2
– The multi-starrer Housefull 5
‘All In: Comedy About Love,’ by playwright Simon Rich and director Alex Timbers began its Broadway previews at the Hudson Theatre (141 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036) on December 11 and will continue through February 16, 2025. Opening night is December 22. John Mulaney leads the cast.
The work comprises Simon Rich-penned stories about dating, heartbreak, and marriage, all adapted from short stories that were published in The New Yorker magazine, whose cartoonist Emily Flake has created illustrations for the production as well. The performances also feature live music from married duo Abigail and Shaun Bengson. The pair will perform songs live on stage from The Magnetic Fields (composed by Stephin Merritt), including songs from the album ‘69 Love Songs,’ which according to Rich inspired the stories that serve as the play’s script.
‘ALL IN’ stories are performed by a rotating cast of some of the funniest Broadway and comedy favorites that will change throughout the run. For the first 5 weeks, John Mulaney leads the cast and is joined by Fred Armisen, Renée Elise Goldsberry (12/11 – 12/30), Chloe Fineman (1/2 – 1/12), and Richard Kind. For the complete schedule of performers for each week, visit thehudsonbroadway.com.
PARTIAL LIST OF CREDITS
Director: Alex Timbers
Playwright: Simon Rich
Producers: Seaview and Lorne Michaels
Scenic Design: David Korins
Lighting Design: Jake DeGroot
Costume Design: Jennifer Moeller
SCHEDULE
December 18–22: Wednesday @7:30pm, Thursday @7:30pm, Friday @7:30pm, Saturday @2pm and 7:30pm, Sunday @7:30pm
Run Time: 90 minutes with no intermission
TICKETS & UPDATES
For updates and to purchase tickets for the show, visit thehudsonbroadway.com.
TODAYTIX LOTTERY
A limited number of $45 tickets will be available for every performance throughout the run via a TodayTix lottery for the play.
For performances beginning the week of Monday, December 16, the lottery will open every Sunday at 12:00am for the following week’s performances and will close for entries the day prior to the performance at 12:00pm. Entrants can enter for a chance to win up to two $45 tickets. This lottery is available in the TodayTix app only, and those looking to enter may do so by downloading the app in the Apple or Android store.
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NJ SYMPHONY WELCOMES APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 CONE INSTITUTE COMPETITION
By Mabel Pais
“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
Former Musician-Competitors for Cone Institute (Credit: njsymphony.org)
The New Jersey Symphony is now accepting applications for the 11th annual Edward T. Cone Composition Institute in partnership with American Composers Orchestra’s EarShot program. This tuition-free Institute is an opportunity designed to promote contemporary orchestral music by enhancing the careers of four emerging composers.
Winning composers will have their music performed by the New Jersey Symphony and will participate in in-depth career development sessions with industry leaders. The Institute will take place July 14–19 in Princeton, NJ, and culminate in a New Jersey Symphony performance of the participants’ works on Saturday, July 19 at 8 pm.
Composer Steven Mackey, a music professor and director of graduate studies in composition at Princeton University, is the institute director. Christopher Rountree, a conductor and composer who is deeply embedded in the new music scene, returns as the Institute’s guest conductor.
Institute composers will hear their works in rehearsal and performance, participate in coaching sessions with Mackey and Rountree and receive musical feedback from New Jersey Symphony musicians. Career-development opportunities with industry leaders will provide the composers with insights into getting their music funded, published and performed.
ELIGIBILITY
The Institute is open to university composition students and composers in the early stages of their professional careers. The application form, composition requirements, program details and eligibility requirements are available at njsymphony.org/institute.
The New Jersey Symphony presents the Institute in collaboration with Princeton University Department of Music. The New Jersey Symphony Edward T. Cone Composition Institute grew out of bi-annual reading sessions the Symphony held with Princeton University graduate students, beginning in 2000, and celebrates its namesake, Edward T. Cone for his legacy as both a composer and a Princeton University professor.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Composers will receive housing and meals in Princeton, and the New Jersey Symphony will reimburse participants up to $250 towards travel costs.
Application deadline: February 16, 2025
2025 Cone Institute: July 14–19, 2025 in Princeton, NJ
For questions or more information, contact coneinstitute@njsymphony.org
EarShot
American Composers Orchestra’s (ACO) EarShot program is the nation’s first systemic pipeline for discovery, cultivation and relationship-building between composers and orchestras in partnership with national advocacy organizations. Through EarShot, ACO expands the definition of American orchestral music by measurably advancing diversity of style, culture and gender in the field. EarShot supports and amplifies the work of participating composers through highly visible activities in NYC and nationwide, including Readings, CoLABoratory Residencies, commissions and performances.
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.
In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026. For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit our website at njsymphony.org or our newsroom for press releases and photos.
Connect with NJ Symphony
Follow NJ Symphony on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube
Subscribe today! njsymphony.org/subscribe
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Business, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Education)
The ‘North to Shore’ Festival, New Jersey’s Three-City Summer Festival in collaboration with its local advisory groups, now welcomes local artists and organizations in the arts: music, film, comedy and more – to participate and compete for the Community Arts Awards of up to $10,000.
Local artists and organizations seeking COMMUNITY ARTS AWARDS can apply now by visiting NorthtoShore.com.
The ‘Prudential presents North to Shore Festival’ will return in June 2025 to commence the Garden State summer with another three-city (Newark, Asbury Park and Atlantic City ) celebration of the arts, entertainment, and new ideas.
HISTORY
Conceived by Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy, the ‘Prudential presents North to Shore Festival’ aims to spotlight New Jersey’s role as a destination for the arts and entertainment and an incubator of new ideas and fresh talent.
North to Shore (N2S) Architects: (left to right) – Asbury Park Mayor John Moor, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Governor Phil Murphy, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, First Lady Tammy Murphy, NJPAC President & CEO John Schreiber. (Photo : Courtesy njpac.org)
Launched in 2023, the festival is a unique combination of performances by artists beloved both internationally and in their hometowns. 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 approximately 250 venues in Newark, Asbury Park and Atlantic City.
SCHEDULE
The 2025 festival will take place from June 9-29 and will be sponsored by Prudential Financial for the second year in a row. Details about the lineup and venues will be announced at an in-person press conference in the first quarter of 2025.
PRODUCERS
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC – njpac.org) will again produce the festival, in partnership with a cohort of other live entertainment presenters and producing partners.
The festival will again collaborate with its local advisory groups in Atlantic City, Asbury Park and Newark to provide ‘North to Shore Community Arts Awards’ of up to $10,000 each. The aim of the Community Arts Awards is to support New Jersey’s creative economy by providing a global platform that amplifies the voices of under-recognized artists and arts organizations.
ARTISTS
Once again, both global headliners and artists who hail from cities along the festival route will take the stage in front of an audience drawn from across the region. ‘North to Shore Community Arts Awards’ will be given to artists, arts organizations, nonprofits, and small businesses to produce and present free festival events. Additionally, the festival will now include season-long community engagement events in Atlantic City. A complete list of free and ticketed festival events will be shared at northtoshore.com in spring 2025.
PAST PERFORMERS
Free events featuring artists from Newark, Asbury Park and Atlantic City will be presented alongside the festival’s headlining artists. During the festival’s first two seasons, headliners included New Jersey pop diva Halsey, hip hop legends Eric B. & Rakim, classic rocker Santana, New Jersey native Jack Antonoff’s The Bleachers, comedic powerhouse Kevin Hart, multi-platinum award-winning, singer/songwriter Prince Royce, four-time Grammy Award winner Gary Clark, Jr., and multiple Latin Grammy award winner Marisa Monte.
“What separates North to Shore from other festivals is the breadth of experiences it offers,” said John Schreiber, President and CEO of NJPAC. “Whether you want to see the biggest names in entertainment, discover the next big star, or listen to leading innovative voices, this festival has something for you.”
ELIGIBILITY
Awards will be granted to independent producers, small businesses, and nonprofit and faith-based organizations in each city to self-produce performing and visual arts events during the festival. Additionally, awards ranging from $500 to $2,500 will be available for independent artists to perform as part of the festival on community stages in each city. Events produced by recipients of the ‘North to Shore Community Arts Awards,’ which will be known as ‘N2S Official Selections,’ will be revealed at this year’s in-person festival press conference.
APPLICATIONS
Local artists and organizations seeking Community Arts Awards can apply now by visiting northtoshore.com.
The ‘Prudential North to Shore Festival’ 2025 will build on past success. “Like our home state of New Jersey, the strength of this festival is rooted in its incredible diversity and spirit of innovation,” said David Rodriguez, NJPAC’s Executive Producer and Executive Vice President. “We’re excited to take what we’ve learned the past two years and produce something even bolder and even more Jersey.”
The Prudential presents North to Shore Festival
The ‘Prudential presents North to Shore Festival,’ launched in 2023, features all the talent, diversity and creativity that New Jersey has to offer, delivering performances, screenings, parties and conversations in three of the state’s most iconic cities.
In partnership with Atlantic City, Asbury Park, and Newark, the festival guarantees an over-the-top showcase of Jersey excellence, aligned with Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy’s vision of a celebration worthy of the Garden State’s long legacy of innovation in the arts. For the latest updates and new concert listings, visit northtoshore.com.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
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 11 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.
(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Business, Social Issues, Spirituality, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Education)
Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King takes us back to the Pride Lands to explore the origin story of the mighty lion king, Mufasa. The prequel to The Lion King [1994] dives into the humble beginnings of Simba’s father, tracing his journey from an orphaned cub – an outsider – to his rise as the beloved leader of Pride Rock.
Mufasa: The Lion King opens with Rafiki (John Kani) recounting the story of Mufasa (voiced by Aaron Pierre) to Kiara [Simba’s daughter], Timon and Pumbaa, sharing how the once-ordinary cub overcame his vulnerabilities and status as an outsider to become a king. During a flood, Mufasa gets separated from his parents to find himself in new surroundings where he meets Taka [Kelvin Harrison Jr], who eventually becomes Scar. The bond between young Mufasa and Taka starts as brotherly love but spirals into rivalry during their escapade to Milele. Despite meeting familiar characters, the lacklustre screenplay by Jeff Nathanson undercuts the story’s emotional depth, leaving potentially poignant moments feeling hollow. On the brighter side, the visuals are fantastic. Disney once again delivers photo-realistic animation that brings the Pride Lands to life with stunning detail.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s highly-publicised split is far from over. After almost 6 months of their Will they? Won’t they? divorce drama and promises to part amicably, tensions are running high behind the scenes as they struggle to finalise details. The situation has become so contentious that Affleck has reportedly been spending more time with his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner while avoiding his ex at all costs. Their complicated co-parenting scene only adds to the drama, as they both seek a smooth transition for their blended families.
The Jenny From the Block singer filed for divorce without a lawyer on the couple’s second wedding anniversary. Since then, the two have largely been spending time apart and rarely been seen together, despite their attempts to present a friendly split. A source told In Touch that the situation has grown “increasingly tense and argumentative,” with Affleck choosing to spend more time with his ex-wife rather than addressing the ongoing divorce.
Lopez “feels sidelined and frustrated,” believing Affleck should meet her demands, but he remains resolute believing he has been fair and that Lopez is deliberately prolonging the process.
“It’s been six months since she filed and nothing has been resolved, it doesn’t seem like they’re anywhere close to finalising the divorce,” the source added. The insider continued, “They both said they wanted to do it amicably and have even talked a good game about wanting to consciously uncouple, but that plan seems to be out the window because they can’t agree on how to divide things up, which of course is affecting things.”
The divorce argument makes sense since the couple entered their marriage on uneven footing, with Lopez’s $400 million net worth greatly outweighing Affleck’s $150 million, and no prenup in place. “She’s worth more than twice as much as him so it’s especially hard for him not to see this as her being vindictive and greedy,” the source added. “They both say they’re desperate to avoid more drama, but the longer this drags on, the worse it’s going to get.”
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