Live events in the Garden State have returned as COVID-19 restrictions ease throughout New Jersey. This summer, a broad range of activities—from drive-in movie theaters to in-person concerts—are available for the general public. Upon this rise in entertainment opportunities, Discover Jersey Arts has launched its “Summer Stages” campaign, curating a list of events for New Jersey Patrons to experience. Presented by both the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and ArtPride New Jersey, the Discover Jersey Arts program aims to return summer fun to patrons.
Discover Jersey Arts aims to increase participation in the New Jersey arts, bridging the gap between organizations and citizens. Coordinated through the Jersey Arts Marketers (JAM) network, the multifaceted program updates its Summer Stages guide regularly to give interested parties access to the latest events.
Upcoming Events in New Jersey
The Summer Stages guide includes events running until late August, providing plenty of New Jersey activities throughout the summer. There, patrons can find concerts, theatre performances, pop-up films, dances, and even musicals. Several events for the month of June are listed below.
June 22 – Indigo Girls
At the Count Basie Center for the Arts, Indigo Girls, with special guest Lucy Wainwright Roche, celebrate their 16th studio album, Look Long. Through songs detailing their origin story, this concert features a collection of music about the artists’ pasts, including their upbringing and experiences in the band.
June 24 – Bria Skonberg
For a tantalizing performance by a trailblazing trumpeter, vocalist, and songwriter, catch Bria Skonberg’s performance at the Morris Museum. According to The Wall Street Journal, “If Louis Armstrong and Doris Day could somehow be the same person, they’d be Bria Skonberg.” After performing alongside musicians from Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child to U2, this trumpeter’s show is certain to blow you away.
June 26 – Garden Stories
Ever wanted to drift away among the roses to wondrous storytelling? At the Grounds For Sculpture storytelling event, children and guardians experience lively, nature-inspired tales while sitting in the gardens. Recommended for children ages three to five, this tranquil activity brings nature and fiction into harmony.
June 28 – Summer Theatre Camps and Teen Workshops
Running until August 20, the Lyceum Studio offers a world of creativity to children ages four to teens. Activities include singer-songwriter workshops, puppet theatre, and other art-inspired opportunities. If you’re passionate about the arts, this camp has a variety of skills and activities throughout the summer.
Photo courtesy of Kyle Head
June 30 – Ann
Written and performed by Emmy Award-winner Holland Taylor, “Ann” provides insight into the ground-breaking life of Texas Governor Ann Richards through grit and humor. A one-woman play, “Ann” will be performed at Cape May Stage through August 22. This show gives audiences an opportunity to enjoy captivating glimpses of Richards’ alcoholism, political career, and impact on Texas policy.
Who Collaborated on the Summer Stages Guide?
The Discover Jersey Arts’ Summer Stages guide was created through the collaborative efforts of ArtPride New Jersey and New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
ArtPride New Jersey is the largest arts service organization in the Garden State, serving nearly 200 institutions. ArtPride’s mission is to promote and advance the arts of New Jersey, emphasizing its central role in the economic vitality and quality of life of every citizen. Formed in 1986, the organization works independently to represent the arts community for the state legislature.
Today, ArtPride New Jersey uses grassroots advocacy to solidify the importance of art on a local and national level. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, it recently worked through Discover Jersey Arts’ site to bring communities and art together.
New Jersey State Council on the Arts, meanwhile, was established in 1966 by the New Jersey governor and state legislature to support, encourage and foster public interest in the arts. The Council also works to increase public and private resources devoted to the arts while facilitating freedom of expression. Their collaborative efforts with ArtPride to establish the Summer Stages campaign works in joining public interest with arts communities.
For more information on events and art opportunities happening throughout New Jersey, visit Discover Jersey Arts website to view their Summer Stages guide.
Feature image courtesy of Discover Jersey Arts’ Facebook Page.
Have you attended a New Jersey arts event? Let us know in the comments below!
About the Author/s
Mary Sparago is 22-year-old creative writing and policy enthusiast who's always looking for new dogs to pet. In her spare time, Mary enjoys listening to K-pop and playing video games.
