12-17 All Pages by Community News Service

Seasonal Joy on Regional Stages

‘The Nice List’ at Bristol Riverside Theatre through December 28. See review, page 9.

‘Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show’ at George Street Playhouse through December 21.

‘A Christmas Carol’ at McCarter Theatre through December 28. See review, page 8.

Chris Stevens and the cast of ‘Elf: The Musical’ at Bucks County Playhouse through January 4.

609-396-1511 x105

Mail: 9 Princess Road, Suite M, Lawrenceville 08648. Events: events@princetoninfo.com News: hastings@princetoninfo.com Home page: www.princetoninfo.com

To the Editor:

Change at Interfaith Caregivers

I am writing to make you aware of an important organizational change.

I regret to inform you that Lauri Harbison has resigned from her position as Executive Director at Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County (ICGMC) effective January 16, 2026. Lauri’s decision is a result of a personal need to relocate out of New Jersey. To share Lauri’s sentiment, “It is not easy to step away from an organization whose mission and people I deeply respect. Serving Interfaith Caregivers has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional life, as I have been continually inspired by the compassion, dedication, and resilience of our volunteers, staff, board and the community we serve.”

On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, we thank Lauri for her unwavering dedication and commitment to ICGMC and for all she has done in carrying our mission forward. We wish her many blessings and much success in all her future pursuits.

The Board is not making any organizational or staff changes at this time. Our staff members have many years’ experience and are highly competent in their job functions, and we are confident in their ability to continue to effectively manage the operations of the agency. We strongly support each of them and will be available for any assistance and guidance they may require during the transition period.

Before the end of the month, the Board will finalize membership of a search committee and begin the

INSIGHTS & ARGUMENTS

process to hire a permanent ED.

Please allow me to take this opportunity to reiterate my deepest and heartfelt gratitude for your commitment to the mission of Interfaith Caregivers and your support of the Board and staff while we navigate this period of change. Please contact me at mgc621@gmail. com with any questions or feedback.

As we enter this beautiful holiday season, may you and your loved ones be filled with gratitude, peace and joy!

Maureen G. Cozzi Chair, Board of Trustees

Opportunities: Call for Directors

Villagers Theatre in Somerset is accepting submissions for its 2026–27 season to shape a year built around bold ideas and inspiring storytelling.

This season, the theater is focusing on vision, innovation, and impact — creating space for directors to dream big, think creatively, and bring meaningful work to stage. The theater seeks artists who want to challenge, inspire, and connect with our community in fresh, exciting ways.

Whether you imagine MainStage spectacle, BlackBox intimacy, directors of all backgrounds, perspectives, and experience levels are encouraged to submit. Villagers offers multiple programs — MainStage, BlackBox, KidsVill, and TeensVill — and the season will be shaped around the proposals that excite us the most.

What to submit:

• Your proposed titles + authors

• If you’re new to Villagers: a résumé (or a list of shows you have

ESSAYS & SOLILOQUIES

INTERCHANGE

Families Can’t Afford to Lose More: In Tough Times, HomeFront Builds Family Stability and Strengthens the Community

THE DAYLIGHT SHINES THROUGH the window of Nicole and Jonathan’s kitchen, homemade artwork lining the windowsill. Inside, it looks and feels like home — warm, the pantry stocked, and a comfortable, furnished space for the couple and their son.

It wasn’t always this way.

Before Nicole, Jonathan, and their son came to stay at one of HomeFront’s newest emergency shelter apartments, they had been living in motels or in their car. Both of them had experienced poverty, homelessness, and limited support systems in their lives.

“My mom died when I was 17 from cancer, and my dad and my stepmom kicked me out on my 18th birthday. And basically I’ve been drowning ever since,” Nicole says.

The family was staying in the residential building HomeFront recently acquired, which the organization is upgrading into additional emergency shelter. It’ll serve 20 families like theirs — about 60 individuals each year — when fully operational in early 2026.

As Sarah Steward, HomeFront CEO, says, “This alarming need for additional shelter means homelessness is not moving in the right direction in our community, even before we see the full impact of government cuts and policy changes.”

directed) + one reference Selected directors will be invited to meet with the production selection committee to explore your concepts, vision, and collaborative approach.

If you are a music director/choreographer/ costumer/set designer/ etc. and aren’t necessarily attached to a team, please send an email as there are always have directors looking for new additions.

The deadline for submissions is Thursday, January 8. Interviews will take place in January and February. The season will be announced in March. For questions, email Jared Milian, artistic director, board of directors, at jared@ villagerstheatre.org.

Visit docs.google.com/forms/d/ e/1FAIpQLSdqWdAKyfM2dB51r svPc2Oxz31l79Gl92ZY2kLcAun3t-gIkQ/viewform to submit your proposal.

Call for Art

The South Brunswick Arts Commission is accepting submissions for its next show, “Artistic Vocabulary — Line, Shape Form,” through Friday, January 9.

In a statement, the commission says: “In the next few shows, we will explore various elements used for artistic expression. For this show, we are looking for works that emphasize line, shape or form as the predominant element in the composition. All static media including fine crafts and abstract treatments are welcome. No AI generated art accepted.”

The exhibit will run from February 13 to April 17, 2026, in the Gallery, South Brunswick Municipal Building, 540 Route 522/Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction.

Original artwork will be considered in all media except film and video. Work must not have been exhibited at the Gallery before. The commission will determine any issue of appropriateness.

Images submitted should be in JPEG format set to RGB color and 100 pixels per inch resolution, to a maximum dimension of 2000 pixels. 2. Identify each image file name, using underscores to separate your informationd, for example: initials_applepie_1.jpg.

Work must be wired and ready to hang. All works on paper must be framed; canvas must be framed or have finished edges. No saw tooth clips will be accepted. Works on paper: must be under glass or Plexiglas. Maximum Framed Size: 60” wide x 42” high. 3-D work must not exceed a 20” x 24” footprint.

Buyers are referred to artists. South Brunswick Arts Commission takes no commission. Work is insured upon delivery (maximum value of $1,000; beyond this the artist will need their own insurance) and until pick-up date. Work may be marked not for sale (NFS) but an insured value must be listed on the application form. Work must remain on display until the end of the exhibit.

To submit artworks for consideration, download the form at www.sbarts.org/the-gallery. Complete the form online or scan the printed document and submit by email along with jpegs of artwork; or print the form and submit by mail along with a CD disc of images labelled with your name, address, phone, and email address. Mail to: South Brunswick Arts Commission, Municipal Building, POB 190, Monmouth Junction 08852.

For questions or to submit by email, contact southbrunswickgallery@gmail.com.

Nicole and Jonathan show the stability and success that comes from ensuring families have one of the most basic needs, housing — that foundation for the rest of a family’s life. The family has since moved into one of the one of the permanent affordable apartments created by HomeFront’s partner, Homes by TLC. For the first time in years, their son has a bedroom of his own, and the family can plan for the future instead of simply surviving the present.

Explaining the hardships so many families face, Dana NelsonBarnes, HomeFront’s director of housing resources, says, “There are so many families living in motels right now. People are being charged well above fair market rent for apartments, even in areas you wouldn’t expect. Wages just haven’t kept up. Many of our clients work one, even two jobs, but still can’t afford rent. And when food programs are cut, it makes it even harder to stay housed.”

The devastating combination of lack of affordability and shrinking government support means more families needing assistance with fewer resources available. The SNAP funding crisis in November has made visible what HomeFront sees every day: families living right on the edge of being able to feed, clothe, and house their families.

Families simply can’t afford to lose more. “During times like this,”

New Jersey has seen homelessness climb significantly over the past few years, increasing by 8 percent from 2024 to 2025, according to the state’s annual Point in Time Count.

Steward says, “all of us must do what we can — and then even more.”

Every HomeFront family seeks stability. As Annie, a Choice Market food pantry client, says, “It helps to be able to get diapers and wipes and food to ensure that [we] get to pay rent on time, and we have a house over our head. Everything towards the end of the month is very tight. Pennies, literally dimes. So this helps out a lot.”

On average, 1,699 families a month visited HomeFront’s food pantries last year. HomeFront also distributed more than 1.3 million diapers.

Another HomeFront client, Laura, needed to stop working midway through her pregnancy. Her husband, Eduardo, had to reduce his work hours to care for her. They got behind on their rent and bills and felt completely overwhelmed. HomeFront’s Housing Stability program helped with their back rent, as well as food, clothing, diapers, and gifts for the holidays. Now, they’re back on their feet and paying their rent independently.

Steward explained, “At HomeFront, we are committed to our mission of ending homelessness in Central New Jersey. We know the best way to do that is to prevent it from happening in the first place. For low-income families, one unexpected bill or hardship can lead to homelessness. That’s why our approach is individualized and flexible — we meet each family

where they are and stabilize them before crisis turns into catastrophe.”

The need for services like HomeFront’s continues to grow. Last year, HomeFront provided shelter, food, and transformative assistance to more than 30,000 unique individuals.

HomeFront is also increasing its capacity to fight food insecurity by expanding and enhancing the pantry located in its FreeStore, located in Trenton. A new community garden initiative also equips families with seeds, soil, and supplies tailored to their living environments — from apartments to transitional housing — along with workshops on growing their own food.

Steward credits the community with making HomeFront’s work possible: “Our vision of thriving families is shared by residents, businesses, faith groups, and local organizations across Mercer County. Just as we strengthen the community family by family, our community’s collective care powers everything we do.”

That community support has changed lives like Denise’s. After escaping an unsafe situation while pregnant, she came to HomeFront’s emergency shelter program at their Family Campus. She and her son,

A family selects items at HomeFront’s food pantry.

Jace, now live in one of HomeFront’s permanent affordable apartments. “I am so grateful to be able to live in one of these beautiful homes,” says Denise. “I am so overwhelmed with how much HomeFront has helped me over the years, from living in the Family Campus until now — living in one of their newly built homes. I have something I can call my own and a place where I safely raise my son!” Settled in their home, Denise and Jace have enjoyed stable, joyfilled holiday seasons — each one bringing hope and new possibilities.

To learn more about HomeFront and how to help this holiday season and in the New Year, visit the website, www.homefrontnj.org or call 609-989-9417 x 112.

Some client names have been changed for privacy.

For more information about HomeFront, which is based in Lawrence Township, visit www. homefrontnj.org or call 609-9899417 x112.

SURVIVAL GUIDE

New CCRC Grant Program to Support Downtown Trenton

The Capital City Redevelopment Corporation (CCRC) is launching a new grant program to support projects to boost economic and social activity in downtown Trenton. Projects must be located within the Capital District .

Created in 1988, the CCRC promotes the public and private development of the Capital District, with the goal to enhance the vitality of the district as a place of commerce, recreation, and culture.

Up to $1.25 million in grant funding will be made available through the Activate Trenton’s Downtown (@Downtown) program, which is accepting applications until Friday, February 6, 2026.

Nonprofits may apply for funding for projects and programs that:

• Support Trenton’s art and maker communities;

• Increase visitation and demand for local businesses through projects and programs that highlight Trenton’s notable contributions to history and/or highlight Trenton’s art communities;

• Provide new opportunities for civic and social events and activities, and;

• Increase street-level energy, comfort, and safety by activating ground-floor building spaces and / or by making “placemaking” investments.

Funding awards will range from $25,000 to $300,000.

Complete grant application procedures are detailed in the NOFA document accessible from www.nj.gov/ccrc/nofa-downtownshtml.shtml.

Questions about the @Downtown grant program should be submitted by email to CCRC@treas.nj.gov.

Mercer County Announces Funding to Tackle Impact of Opioid Epidemic

Mercer County Executive Dan Benson and the Mercer County Office on Addiction Services has announced a new round of funding initiatives, totaling up to $270,000, dedicated to addressing the impacts of the opioid epidemic. The county has issued a request for proposal (RFP) inviting community agencies and organizations to apply for these funds by Tuesday, December 23.

The new funds are part of Mercer County’s share of New Jersey’s $1 billion settlement with prescription opioid manufacturers, distributors, and retailers for their role in creating and fueling the opioid epidemic. The Office on Addiction Services and Mercer County Opioid Settlement Advisory Council incorporated input from residents and community stakeholders to determine three priority areas for this round of funding: treatment, wraparound services, and equitable access to transportation.

“Earlier this year, Mercer County announced our first round of opioid settlement funds, which we’re using to address opioid addiction through evidence-based programs and strategies,” Benson said. “With this second round we’re broadening our efforts to focus both on treatment and on addressing the barriers which so often prevent people from escaping addiction. We must provide a genuine path for recovery to all our residents who are struggling with opioid abuse.”

The Office of Addiction Services will fund up to three agencies that deliver treatment services for individuals suffering from

opioid use disorder, prioritizing programs that offer a continuum of clinical care. Contracts will be awarded for up-to two organizations focusing on wraparound services that assist individuals in treatment/recovery with supportive housing, counseling, and other critical services that promote longterm stability. Lastly, the office will select up to two providers to help individuals overcome transportation barriers which might prevent them from accessing treatment or support.

Members of the public can help guide the County’s efforts against opioid addiction by completing the Office on Addiction’s online survey at www.mercercounty.org/osfsurvey.

The RFP may be viewed at www.mercercounty.org/Home/Components/RFP/ RFP/5391/418. Contracts awarded through this process will run from February 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026, with opportunities to extend. Funding is contingent upon inclusion and adoption in the 2026 Mercer County budget.

Business Meetings

Wednesday December 17

Networking, BNI Falcons, IHOP, 610 Route 33, East Windsor, 877-264-0500. www.bninjpa.org. Hybrid meeting. Speakers: Otto Kostbar, law; and Olin Johnson, painting. 7 to 8:30 a.m.

Holiday Business After Business, Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce, Stark & Stark, 100 American Metro Boulevard, Hamilton, 609-924-1776. www. princetonmercerchamber.org. Mingle with fellow Chamber Members and guests over food, beer, wine, and desserts. Register. 5 to 7 p.m.

The Current Economy and Future Projections Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. Nicol Nicola explores current economic trends and data-driven forecasts to help businesses, job seekers and others make informed strategic decisions in a rapidly evolving economy. Via Zoom. Register. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday December 18

Networking BNI Tigers Chapter, Conference Center at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, 609-570-3237. www.bninjpa.org. In-person meeting. Speaker: Veronica Vilardo, real estate. 7 to 8:30 a.m.

Networking, BNI Top Flight, Town Diner, 431 Route 130, East Windsor, 609-4438222. www.bninjpa.org. 7 a.m.

Webinar: RetireReady NJ: Your Path to a Secure Retirement, New Jersey State Library. www.njstatelib.org. Todd Hassler, Executive Director of RetireReady NJ, discusses the realities of saving for retirement and why you should start today. He also explains RetireReady NJ, a state-administered retirement savings program that aims to make saving for retirement easy and attainable for private-sector workers and savers. He walks through which employers are mandated, who can save, and how to get started. Free. Register. Noon to 1 p.m.

Friday December 19

Networking, X-Factor BNI, VFW 133, 485 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, 908-4216151. www.bninjpa.org. Speaker: Carla Scaturro, insurance market update. Guests always welcome. RSVP suggested. Contact distinguished@rocketmail.com for more. 7 to 8:30 a.m.

JobSeekers Holiday Networking Social, Professional Service Group of Mercer County, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.psgofmercercounty.org. Bring a treat to share and join with other job seekers and career coaches for networking and socializing. 9:45 a.m. to noon.

Saturday December 20

Mid-Day Toastmasters Club, Hickory Corner Library, 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor, 908-421-6151. 4139.toastmastersclubs.org. Nonprofit dedicated to effective oral communication and leadership development. Meeting also accessible via Zoom. Visit tinyurl.com/zoomwithmidday. 10 a.m.

Tuesday December 23

Mid-Day Toastmasters Club, 908-4216151. 4139.toastmastersclubs.org. Nonprofit dedicated to effective oral communication and leadership development. Meeting via Zoom. Visit tinyurl.com/zoomwithmidday. 11:30 a.m.

ART FILM LITERATURE DANCE DRAMA MUSIC

PRE VIEW

DAY-BY-DAY EVENTS, DECEMBER 17 TO 24

Event Listings: E-mail events@princetoninfo.com

While many venues have returned to hosting in-person events, others are still taking place online. Event descriptions specify if an event is being held virtually or in a hybrid format. To include your virtual or in-person event in this section email events@princetoninfo.com.

Wednesday December 17

Classical Music

Holiday Favorites and SingAlong Westminster Community Orchestra, Cullen Center, Hillman Performance Hall, 101 Walnut Lane, Princeton. www.rider. edu/events. Concert of holiday favorites conducted by Ruth Ochs. Free; donations accepted to benefit area food pantries and service organizations. 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Art

Festival of Trees, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Annual juried collection of ornamental trees and mantels displayed throughout the museum’s galleries. On view through Wednesdays through Sundays through January 11. $12. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On Stage

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater. org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 p.m.

The Nice List, Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. When Santa announces he has to leave the North Pole for an important trip, he puts two elves in charge of the all-important Nice List. As they struggle to decide who’s naughty and who’s nice, the list gets shorter and shorter until it seems like no one will get presents at all. Family friendly musical adventure. $20 to $68. 2 and 7 p.m.

Return of the Light

The Cathedral Arts Series At Trinity presents a Winter Solstice Jazz Concert at Trinity Cathedral in Trenton on Sunday, December 21. Jazz violinist and composer Gwen Laster is joined by pianist Manu Koch, bassist Damon Banks, and drummer Harvey Wirht to present the eclectic sounds of jazz, improvisation, and music of the season.

fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Future — along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. $35 and up. 7:30 p.m.

A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www. mccarter.org. Charles Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity adapted and directed by Lauren Keating. Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge. 7:30 p.m.

Film

Wednesday Film Festival: Devil in a Blue Dress, West Windsor Public Library, 333 North Post Road, West WiIndsor. www.poetryreadinggroup.wordpress.com. 1995 film starring Denzel Washington, Tom Sizemore, Jennifer Beals, Don Cheadle, Maury Chaykin, and Terry Kinney. Rated R, 101 minutes. 2 p.m.

Film Screening: Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) Lawrence Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. events.mcl.org. Jake Sully lives with his newfound family formed on the extrasolar moon Pandora. Once a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with Neytiri and the army of the Na’vi race to protect their home. 192 minutes. Rated PG-13. Register. 4:30 to 7:45 p.m.

It’s a Wonderful Life, Princeton

Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. Jimmy Stewart stars as a selfless small-town banker on the verge of ruin. Contemplating suicide, he is visited by an angel who shows him that, despite his lost dreams, the impact of his good work has improved countless lives. $13.50. 7 p.m.

Dancing

Contra Dance, Princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Center, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton. www.princetoncountrydancers.org. Daniel Levitin with Raven & Goose. $15. 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Literati

Artful Writing: An Ekphrastic Workshop, Mercer County Library, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. www.mcl.org. Discover the power of visual art to spark poetic and narrative expression in this generative workshop led by Barbara Krasner, author of “Poems of the Winter Palace” and “The Night Watch.” Using works from Impressionists to Surrealists, participants explore tone, mood, and form through timed prompts in any genre. Krasner, a Pushcart Prize nominee, teaches at Mercer County Community College and edits its literary magazine, Kelsey Review. 2:30 p.m.

Wellness

Wild Gentle Yoga: Yoga to Connect with Yourself and Nature, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, 1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. www.bhwp.org. Gentle yoga that builds body awareness, strength, flexibility and a better understanding of how humans connect to and reflect natural systems with Priscilla Hayes. Register. Pay what you can, $8 and up. 8 to 9 a.m.

Lectures

Charles M. Schulz: An American Cartoonist, Mercer County Library. events.mcl.org. This year marks 75 years since Charles M. Schulz’ beloved “Peanuts” comic strip debuted on October 2, 1950. Take a pictorial journey through Schulz’ life and career and learn why “Peanuts” is one of the most popular and influential comic strips ever. Presented by Jessica Ruskin, Education Director at the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center. Virtual program; register to receive link. 6 p.m.

Socials

Jersey Art Meetup, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Princeton Comic Makers presents: JERSEY ART MEETUPS (JAM), a weekly social event connecting creatives within the greater Central Jersey

area through a shared passion for sequential art and new media. Attendees may use this open workshop space to draw, write, and develop their own artwork, with an opportunity to receive peer review and feedback from other members if desired. Illustrators, animators, writers, and generalists are all welcome to join and discuss their art and career goals, share learning resources, promote current projects, or find friends and collaborators. Must be 16+ to attend. Free. 7 to 9 p.m.

For Seniors

From Petals to Pine: Holiday Arrangement Workshop, Center for Modern Aging Princeton, 101 Poor Farm Road, Princeton. www.cmaprinceton.org. Festive bouquet-making workshop where fragrant evergreens, vibrant holiday blooms, and cheerful accents come together in your very own one-of-a-kind arrangement. No experience needed. Register. $30. 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Thursday

December 18

Live Music

Holiday Concert, Lawrence Community Concert Band, Lawrence Senior Center, 30 Darrah Lane East, Lawrenceville. lawrencecommunityband.org. Enjoy familiar holiday favorites, complete with an old fashioned singa-long. Free. 7 p.m.

Pop Music

An American Christmas Songbook, Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Singers and musicians including Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the stage with a small band to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs. $56. 2 p.m.

Dance

The Nutcracker, American Repertory Ballet, State Theater, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, 609-258-2787. www.arballet.org. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-than-life mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. With live orchestra and choir. For ages 5 and up. $40 to $87. 7:30 p.m.

On Stage

City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show, George Street Playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. This fast, funny, and full-of-surprises reimagining of A Christmas Carol takes Dickens’ classic tale and gives it a fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Future — along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. $35 and up. 2 and 7:30 p.m.

A Levittown Christmas Carol New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, Pennsylvania. www.newhopearts.org. The original musical by Righteous Jolly and David Garrett Shaw takes a gritty, hilarious, and heartfelt spin on reimagining of Dickens’ holiday classic. $35. 7:30 p.m. Literati

Story & Verse: Open Mic, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www. artscouncilofprinceton.org. Enjoy an evening of community-created entertainment in the form of storytelling and poetic open mic. All are welcome to tell a well-prepared story or perform their poetry. Performers should bring their own work of their choice for the theme “Here & Now.” Register. Free. 7 to 9 p.m.

Good Causes

Sounds of Christmas, The Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea Immaculate Conception Church, 540 Chestnut Avenue, Trenton. mtcarmelguild.org/events/ sounds-of-christmas-benefit-concert. Benefit concert for Mount Carmel Guild in support of its mission to provide critical services such as food assistance and healthcare to those in need. $45 general admission. 7 p.m.

Food & Dining

Cook Talks: Holiday Cookie Decorating, Lawrence Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. events.mcl.org. Leslie Marchio shows how to turn delicious treats into beautiful works of art. You will be guided in a fun, spirited exploration of icing techniques. Register. 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Lectures

Meeting 55-Plus Club of Princeton, Jewish Center of Princeton, 435 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princeton55plus.org. Randall Solomon, director of The Sustainability Institute at The College of New Jersey and the executive director of Sustainable Jersey, on “The Role of Local Government and Community in a ClimateChanging World.” Free with a suggested donation of $5. In person or via Zoom. 10 a.m. Notre Dame de Paris – Before and After the Fire Alliance Francaise. allianceprinceton. com. After the Fire: The Redesign of the Surroundings of NotreDame de Paris, with Bas Smets. In English with French subtitles available. Register. 1 p.m.

Shopping News

Artist Winter Village, Arts Coun-

cil of Princeton, Hinds Plaza, Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org.

Festive pop-up shops, run by talented regional creatives, offer fun and unique gifts in cozy textiles, jewelry, hand-poured candles, charming children’s wear, pottery, wood, and more. Noon to 6 p.m.

Socials

Bingo, Congregation Beth Chaim, 329 Village Road East, West Windsor. Cash only, ages 18+. $5 entry includes one book (6 games); additional games available for $2. Cash prizes, food, and fun. 7 to 10 p.m.

Friday

December 19

Classical Music

Handel’s Messiah New Jersey Symphony, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. www. njsymphony.org. Conducted by Anthony Parnther with guest vocalists Caitlin Gotimer, soprano; Maria Dominique Lopez, mezzosoprano; Orson Van Gay II, tenor; and Shyheim Selvan Hinnant, bass-baritone. Singing the choral sections are the Montclair State University Singers, under the direction of Heather J. Buchanan.

Pre-concert holiday carols at 6:30 p.m. $36 to $122. 7:30 p.m.

Live Music

Living the Dream, Hopewell Valley Vineyards, 46 Yard Road, Pennington, 609-737-4465. www. hopewellvalleyvineyards.com. 1960s to ‘80s. 5 to 8 p.m.

The Soul Cruisers, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, 609-393-7300. www. coopersnj.com. Holiday party and dinner show. With DJ John Rossi. Tickets via EventBrite, $19 and up. 7 p.m.

Pop Music

Pakt, Randy Now’s Man Cave, 119 West Ward Street, Hightstown. www.mancavenj.com. Supergroup forges a path through progressive rock, avant-garde jazz, and experimental soundscapes. $45. 6:30 to 9 p.m.

An American Christmas Songbook, Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Singers and musicians including Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the stage to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs. $56. 7 p.m.

Holiday Concert, Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre.org. Festive evening of song and dance combin-

The mice will be stirring when Dance Connection presents an abridged, family-friendly version of ‘The Nutcracker’ at Mercer County Community College’s Kelsey Theatre in West Windsor, for six shows, December 19 through 21.

ing quintessential holiday music in the style of Mariah Carey, Rosemary Clooney, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and more played live by a 17-piece big band. $32 to $35. 8 p.m.

Art

Gallery Opening: Annual Member Show, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Opening reception for display of artwork produced by more than 100 artists in mediums including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, and more. The 2025 theme was “Do You Have a Third Place?” Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined this term to describe places outside of the home (the “first place”) and the workplace (the “second place”), where folks go to converse with others and connect with their community. In these cases, no one is obligated to be there and are often free or affordable. In other words, they’re our happy places. On view through January 3. 5 to 7 p.m.

Dance

The Nutcracker, Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. kelsey.mccc. edu. Young dancers from the Dance Connection perform an abridged and fully narrated version of the holiday classic. $22. 7 p.m.

The Nutcracker, American Repertory Ballet, State Theater, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, 609-258-2787. www.arballet.org. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-thanlife mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. With live orchestra and choir. For ages 5 and up. $40 to $87. 7:30 p.m.

On Stage

list gets shorter and shorter until it seems like no one will get presents at all. Family friendly musical adventure. $20 to $68. 2

p.m.

Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show, George Street Playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. This fast, funny, and full-ofsurprises reimagining of A Christmas Carol takes Dickens’ classic tale and gives it a fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Future — along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. $35 and up. 2 p.m.

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater.org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The wouldbe elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 7:30 p.m.

A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Charles Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity adapted and directed by Lauren Keating. Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge. 7:30 p.m.

A Levittown Christmas Carol, New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, Pennsylvania. www.newhopearts.org. The original musical by Righteous Jolly and David Garrett Shaw takes a gritty, hilarious, and heartfelt spin on reimagining of Dickens’ holiday classic. $35. 7:30 p.m.

Inspecting Carol Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA, 215-2953694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Behind the scenes of a struggling theatre company’s annual slapdash production of “A Christmas Carol,” rehearsals are at a standstill. Tim is no longer tiny, Scrooge wants to do the show in Spanish and their funding is on hold pending an inspection. When an impossibly bad actor is mistakenly identified as the inspector, the troupe does everything to accommodate his craziest wishes. Mistaken identities lead to side-splitting comedy as opening night draws closer and it seems only a Christmas miracle will save this production. $24. 8 p.m.

Kouraj and Righteous Jolly on stage during the 2024 production of ‘A Levittown Christmas Carol.’ See this year’s show Thursday through Sunday, December 18 through 20, at New Hope Arts Center in New Hope, Pennsylvania.

A Merry Little Christmas Carol, Playhouse 22, East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, 732-254-3939. www.playhouse22. org. Play written by Mark Shanahan and directed by Erik Hall is a new take on the old Charles Dickens classic. $24. 8 p.m.

The 24 Days Before Christmas, Somerset Valley Players, 689 Amwell Road, Hillsborough, 908-369-7469. www.svptheatre.org.

The Austin family has a cherished tradition of doing something special every day counting down to Christmas – from baking cookies to decorating the tree. This year is a stressful one for Vicky Austin, as she’s cast as the youngest angel in the Christmas Pageant. Plus, the family is preparing for the birth of a new brother or sister. Will the baby wait until January? Will Vicky mess up her big role? Will Christmas be ruined? $24. 8 p.m.

Film

Film: “Sense and Sensibility”, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. This acclaimed 1995 adaptation of Jane Austen’s first novel follows the Dashwood sisters as they seek financial security through marriage after their father dies. 2 hours, 16 minutes. 3:30 p.m.

Dancing

Friday Night Folk Dance, Princeton Folk Dance, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton. www.princetonfolkdance.org. Lesson followed by open dancing. No partner necessary. $10. 8 p.m.

Comedy

brary, 120 Academy Street, Trenton. The Patrick Kerssen Trio explores the life of jazz composer Vince Guaraldi, best known for his work on the “Peanuts” specials. The trio educates audiences about his life and work and plays all of his best known tracks, culminating in an opportunity for the audience to participate in a “Charlie Brown Christmas”-style dance party. 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Live Music

Weekend Music Series, Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, 609-924-2310. www.terhuneorchards.com. Live music from 1 to 4 p.m. by Chris P. Fire pits, cafe favorites, hot mulled wine, and wine by the glass available. Hot cocoa and s’mores kits for kids. Noon to 5 p.m. Bad Hombres, Hopewell Valley Vineyards, 46 Yard Road, Pennington, 609737-4465. www.hopewellvalleyvineyards. com. R&B/contemporary. 5 to 8 p.m. Cafe Improv, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609924-8777. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Local music, poetry, comedy. $2. 7 to 10 p.m.

Caruso, Small World Coffee, 14 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.smallworldcoffee.com. Instrumental/guitar loops. 7 p.m.

Pop Music

, Hyatt

Regency Princeton, 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton, 781-568-1471. www.catcharisingstar.com. With Alli Breen and Max Dolcelli, hosted by Jay Joshi. Two item per per7:30 to 9:30

Arts Council of , Hinds Plaza, Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Festive pop-up shops, run by talented regional creatives, offer fun and unique gifts in cozy textiles, jewelry, handpoured candles, charming children’s wear, Noon to 6 p.m.

December 20

Classical Music

Handel’s Messiah, New Jersey Symphony, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. www.njsymphony.org. Conducted by Anthony Parnther with guest vocalists Caitlin Gotimer, soprano; Maria Dominique Lopez, mezzo-soprano; Orson Van Gay II, tenor; and Shyheim Selvan Hinnant, bassbaritone. Singing the choral sections are the Montclair State University Singers, under the direction of Heather J. Buchanan. $36 to $122. 7:30 p.m.

Jazz & Blues

Holiday Jazz Concert Trenton Public Li-

An American Christmas Songbook, Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Singers and musicians including Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the stage to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs. $56. 3 p.m.

Holiday Concert, Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre.org. Festive evening of song and dance combining quintessential holiday music in the style of Mariah Carey, Rosemary Clooney, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and more played live by a 17-piece big band. $32 to $35. 3 and 8 p.m.

Dance

The Nutcracker, American Repertory Ballet, State Theater, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, 609-258-2787. www.arballet.org. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-thanlife mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. With live orchestra and choir. For ages 5 and up. $40 to $87. 2 and 7 p.m.

On Stage

One Night, Four Openings at Arts Council

Visitors to the Arts Council of Princeton this Friday, December 19, get a quadruple dose of regionally produced art with four simultaneous opening receptions for new exhibits taking place from 5 to 7 p.m. All are free and open to the public.

The headlining show is the Arts Council’s 2025 Annual Member Show: “Do You Have a Third Place?” on view in the Taplin Gallery from December 19 through Saturday, January 3. The annual year-end tradition celebrates the creativity, talent, and imagination of the Arts Council’s vibrant member artist community and showcases artwork by more than 100 regional artists working across drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, and more.

Each year, the Member Show invites ACP artists to explore a new theme. For 2025, the Arts Council asks: “Do You Have a Third Place?”

The idea of a “third place” was introduced by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, who defines a “third place” as a gathering spot outside of home and work — a café, bar, art club, dog park, library, gym, or even an imaginative refuge, where people go to connect, unwind, and feel part of something larger than themselves. These spaces are accessible, welcoming, unpressured, and often the backdrop for meaningful community connection.

“In Princeton, we see firsthand how essential third places are,” says ACP Artistic Director Maria Evans. “We welcome repeat students, familiar faces at gallery openings, and community members who return week after week to draw, paint, print, chat, and create. Their presence reminds us why we do what we do.”

Through this theme, artists reflect on the spaces real or imagined that anchor them, inspire them, and keep them coming back. The resulting exhibition offers a dynamic and deeply personal exploration of how community spaces shape us and why they matter.

Also on view: The Witherspoon Collective: Advanced

Painters from Charles Viera’s Class is on display through January 3 in the Siegal Gallery. The Witherspoon Artists Collective is composed of local artists who have studied painting and drawing at the Arts Council of Princeton, working across oil, acrylic, and pastel. Their work reflects both the high caliber of ACP’s visual arts instruction and the deep creative engagement nurtured within its classrooms.

Charles Viera, ACP teaching artist and curator of the exhibition, shares, “Some of the artists in this exhibition have been studying with me for years, while others come and go as their schedules allow. The unifying theme of this exhibition is that all of these artists are local, they have studied at ACP, and they are all excellent artists who are now being recognized as such. This exhibition highlights the creative growth, skill, and dedication of artists who have found community and artistic momentum through ACP’s programs.”

Artists exhibiting include Si Chang, Paula Huttner, Margaret Kalvar, Luccia Carsky-Wilson, Lori Langsner, Geraldine Shea, Marisa Braccia, Hoke Bullard, Cynthia Butler, Anne Diebel, Jane Goble, Erica McEnery, Jane McCort, and Pam Potenza

Princeton’s Dogoyles by Spring Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence Victor Bell will be on view in the Lower Level Gallery from December 19 through January 3. Bell, a Princeton native and devoted dog lover, draws inspiration from the unconditional love rescue animals offer. A love he hopes to reflect back into the world through his work.

From this passion emerged Princeton’s “dogoyles”: whimsical hybrids of dog, dragon, and gargoyle that Bell created for specific small businesses and community gathering spaces throughout town. Just as dogs bring people together as a pack, and shared meals and favorite hangouts unite a community, Bell’s dogoyles symbolize protection, joy, and the magic of belonging. (For more on Bell, see “Victor

friendly musical adventure. $20 to $68. 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.

A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Charles Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity adapted and directed by Lauren Keating. Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge. 1 and 5:30 p.m.

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater.org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The wouldbe elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show, George Street Playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. This fast, funny, and full-ofsurprises reimagining of A Christmas Carol takes Dickens’ classic tale and gives it a fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Future — along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. $35 and up. 2 and 7:30 p.m.

A Levittown Christmas Carol, New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, Pennsylvania. www.newhopearts.org. The origi-

A full house at last year’s Member Show reception, above, and Lori Langsner’s ‘Red Geraniums,’ right, from the Witherspoon Collective show.

Bell Brings the Dog Days to the Arts Council of Princeton,” U.S. 1, April 29, 2025.)

During the December 19 opening receptions, the Arts Council of Princeton will also celebrate the newest chapter of its beloved community initiative Princeton Sketchbook Club. Now in its third iteration, the Princeton Sketchbook Club invited beginners, seasoned artists, and everyone in between to make their mark. Each participant received the same 8×5” sketchbook, which is a blank slate to fill with drawing, writing, collage, painting, and any form of creative expression that inspires them.

This reception offers an opportunity for participating artists and the public to come together, flip through the finished books, and honor the creativity that will join the Princeton Sketchbook Library, a growing public collection of community-made sketchbooks.

December Opening Receptions, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. Friday, December 19, 5 to 7 p.m.

American Repertory Ballet finishes its 2025 run of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the State Theatre in New Brunswick with performances Thursday through Sunday, December 18 through 21, accompanied by live orchestra.

Photo by Megan Teat Photography.

nal musical by Righteous Jolly and David Garrett Shaw takes a gritty, hilarious, and heartfelt spin on reimagining of Dickens’ holiday classic. $35. 7:30 p.m.

The 24 Days Before Christmas, Somerset Valley Players, 689 Amwell Road, Hillsborough, 908-369-7469. www.svptheatre.org. The Austin family has a cherished tradition of doing something special every day counting down to Christmas – from baking cookies to decorating the tree. This year is a stressful one for Vicky Austin, as she’s cast as the youngest angel in the Christmas Pageant. Plus, the family is preparing for

Free. Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;

role? Will Christmas be ruined? $24. 8 p.m.

Family Theater

Frosty & Rudolph, Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre.org. School is out, and the neighborhood children decide to build a snowman. When they place an enchanted hat on his head, he springs to life. To be sure he doesn’t melt, the kids take Frosty to the North Pole where he meets Rudolph, and they hatch a plan to save Christmas by using the reindeer’s incredible red nose to guide Santa’s sleigh. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The Polar Express Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. On Christmas Eve 1959, a young boy wanders outside and happens upon a train called ‘The Polar Express’ headed for the North Pole. On his adventure, he meets a colorful cast of characters on their way to see Santa, and learns about friendship and the spirit of Christmas. $5. 10 a.m.

Dancing

No Name Dance Central Jersey Dance Society, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-945-1883. www.centraljerseydance.org. Night Club

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the birth of a new brother or sister. Will the baby wait until January? Will Vicky mess up her big

Film

McCarter Theatre Review: ‘A Christmas Carol’

by Neal Zoren

Coming Tuesday morning

Royer Bockus, left, as the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Cameron Knight as Ebenezer Scrooge in McCarter Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol,’ on stage through Sunday, December 28.

December 20

2-Step lesson (beginner/intermediate) taught by Alan Saperstein followed by open dancing to a playlist of California Mix, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Hustle, Night Club 2-Step, Country 2-Step, and Latin dance music with Saperstein as DJ. No partner needed. Register. $15. 7 to 11 p.m.

Comedy

Brian Scolaro, Catch A Rising Star, Hyatt Regency Princeton, 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton, 781-568-1471. www.catcharisingstar.com. With Alli Breen and Max Dolcelli, hosted by Jay Joshi. Two item per person minimum. $30 to $39. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Science Lectures

Science Under the Stars: An Astronomer’s View on Climate: Milankovitch Cycles, New Jersey State Museum, 205 West State Street, Trenton. www.statemuseum.nj.gov. Over the last 800,000 years

glacial ice caps miles deep advanced and retreated across North America at least eight times. These cyclic changes in Earth climate are connected to small cyclic variations in Earth’s orbit called Milankovitch cycles. Hear about how astronomy and climate science are intimately connected, and how New Jersey rocks have something to say about these cycles. 4:15 p.m.

Outdoor Action

Princeton Canal Walkers, Turning Basin Park, Alexander Road, Princeton. 3 mile walk on the towpath, weather permitting. Free. Register to canalwalkers@googlegroups.com for notices of weather-related cancellations. 10 a.m.

Shopping News

Artist Winter Village, Arts Council of Princeton, Hinds Plaza, Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Festive pop-up shops, run by talented regional creatives, offer fun and unique gifts in cozy textiles, jewelry, handpoured candles, charming children’s wear, pottery, wood, and more. Additional artists join from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Noon to 6 p.m.

Socials

Heritage Tree Lighting, William Trent House, 15 Market Street, Trenton. www. williamtrenthouse.org. Opening reception for display of lighted trees decorated by Trenton area organizations on the theme of their heritage and contributions. Free. 5 p.m.

Sunday December 21

Classical Music

Handel, Messiah, Princeton Society of Musical Amateurs, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, Route 206 at Cherry Hill Road, Princeton. www.musicalamateurs.org. Conducted by James Splond. Choral singers welcome. No auditions. Vocal scores provided. $10 admission for singers (or annual membership). Free for students and non-singing guests. 4 p.m.

Jazz & Blues

The Return of the Light: Winter Solstice Jazz Concert, Cathedral Arts Series At Trinity, Trinity Cathedral, 801 West State Street, Trenton, 609-392-3805 ext. 100. Jazz violinist and composer Gwen Laster and her ensemble bring the eclectic sounds of jazz, improvisation, and music of the season in celebration of the Winter Solstice. Joining Gwen are pianist Manu Koch, bassist Damon Banks, and drummer Harvey Wirht. Laster is an award-winning violinist and was recently named a Guggenheim fellow for her extensive work in performance, recording, and teaching.$30 at the door or pre-ordered by phone. 4 p.m.

Live Music

Weekend Music Series, Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, 609-924-2310. www.terhuneorchards.com. Live music from 1 to 4 p.m. by Sarah Teti. Fire pits, cafe favorites, hot mulled wine, and wine by the glass available. Hot cocoa and s’mores kits for kids. Noon to 5 p.m. Circle Round the Sun, Hopewell Valley Vineyards, 46 Yard Road, Pennington, 609-737-4465. www.hopewellvalleyvineyards.com. Americana. 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Photo by Daniel Rader.

Bristol Riverside Theatre Review: ‘The Nice List’

Comet, the designated reindeer, encapsulates the point of “The Nice List,” a jauntily silly yet undeniably sensible Christmas musical having its world premiere at the Bristol Riverside Theatre through December 28.

In Alan Muraoka’s lively production, Comet is represented by a large puppet wrangled by Jennifer Barnhart, who also plays one of Santa Claus’ elves. She doesn’t quite steal the show — a sparkling cast of seven won’t let her — but she puts it in clear perspective because one minute Comet is winning you over with her empathy or luring you to her side with big doe eyes — what other kind would she have? — and the next she is moody, cantankerous, and in need of mollifying attention herself.

See. We’re all a little bit naughty and a little bit nice, and few us could be completely categorized by one list or the other.

I’m not giving away the moral of book writer-lyricist Phoebe Kreutz or composer Gary Adler’s story.

Well maybe I am, but I’m stating it because “The Nice List” creators come to it logically and intelligently while entertaining us, grandly, wending their way to a commonsense conclusion via oodles of comic or sardonic touches that range from incorrigibly obsessive elves to a Parisian Santa who has the angst and attitude of a worldweary philosophe.

As well as a comic French accent, complete with gravelly hawhaw-haw’s.

Kreutz, Adler, and Muraoka give us a show that can tickle a child with sprightly dances, corny jokes, and continuous merriment while giving adults reasons to appreciate the creative team’s inventiveness and wit.

As when the elves link arms and go balletic with a famous dance step from “The Nutcracker.” Or make a comment that might not be nice but indicates they know how the world works and what complicates its peace and efficiency.

The corny jokes, mostly simple riddles shared by elves competing to come up with groan-worthy punch lines, work with all ages. I’ve spent the week since I’ve seen “The Nice List” stealing them to make my listener’s eyes roll or elicit a light chuckle.

Light as it is in tone, and funny as it is by design, “The Nice List” is on to something worth exploring. Kreutz creates a lot of dilemmas, genuine and comic, to show how tetchy matters can be solved if people, or reindeer, can surrender some rigidity, examine a situation firsthand, see all the sides of it, and come to some reasonable deductions.

Everything seems to swing on a pendulum. Nice can turn to naughty in a hurry. Ambitious intentions can turn into bad decisions. Impressions can be false ones. Dili-

Pop Music

by Neal Zoren

gence can evolve into monomania.

“The Nice List” doesn’t go into these things deeply. It’s more of a lark than a lesson. But within its comedy, it touches on them thoughtfully, so the breezy reveals something about humanity and the ways it causes trouble.

Responsibilities and misconceptions lead people to go overboard, and they have to have some perspective restored.

Santa (Korie Lee Blossey) believes his surrogates in department stores and street corners throughout the world don’t express enough joy and spirit to keep Christmas festive and anticipated, so within days of taking to his sleigh, he leaves the North Pole to visit Santas internationally and give them a pep talk.

He leaves the North Pole in the hands of trusted assistant, the elf Chestnut (Aaron J. Albano), who thinks he can improve on Santa’s management and is part brownnoser and part usurper.

One task past deadline is the year’s Nice List of children who deserve the toys they desire. Chestnut assigns the catching-up to one elf, Gumdrop (Diana Huey), who agonizes over being consistently nice and another, Raisin (Michelle Dowdy), who is actually on Santa’s Naughty List and takes a cynical view of judging children’s behavior, the North Pole, and Santa in general.

Chestnut’s hubris, Gumdrop’s bout with perfection, Raisin’s outspokenness, and Comet’s moods are witnessed and commented on, by a sort of Greek chorus of elves who enjoy workplace gossip but dread workplace tension (Kennedy Kanagawa, Brad Weinstock, and Jennifer Barnhart), lead to trouble in Christmas City, and something’s got to give.

The comedy is the elves, Gumdrop and Chestnut in particular, going to extremes while the usually discontent Raisin and Comet become raisonneurs of sorts.

The overall confusion provides a lot of chances for theater fun.

Kreutz’ script, as noted, accents the craziness in the principals’ behavior, the concern among the less involved elves, and Santa discovering more than about a world he annually flew over but never took the time to see or know.

It’s a clever book, at once warm and optimistic while wittily exposing foibles and gaining laughs from some sharp comic lines.

Kreutz’s lyrics are also clever, far from the cookie-cutter sentiments, used phrases, and elementary rhymes you hear in most new scores.

Gary Adler’s music is tuneful and filled with purposeful references to known holiday music, but like Kreutz’s lyrics, avoids the formulaic sound of most new music for the theater.

Alan Muraoka and his cast run

An American Christmas Songbook, Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Singers and musicians including Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the stage to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs. $56. 3 p.m.

with the quality material Kreutz and Adler give them.

Muraoka keeps things going at a brisk, peppy pace while giving characters the chance to establish themselves and show why they’re funny. His direction is filled with ideas that work to keep “The Nice List” sparkling while allowing some moments that show the conundrum of people being caught in a tradition, a habit, or task that drives them to comic distraction.

Diana Huey leads the way with her hilarious but scary portrayal of a woman so determined to do good, she causes concern among others who think she may be going too far.

Huey’s Gumdrop, in assembling the Nice List, goes from being forgiving and letting people off the hook for minor trespasses to demanding anyone deemed “Nice” is without the slightest flaw, blemish, or faux pas.

Her zeal whittles the Nice List to a total of 12, one of whom she accuses of an infraction, reducing the “Nice” to 11. Gumdrop is too gleeful in her strictness to see the disappointment and unhappiness it will cause. (It’s bittersweet to see Kanagawa portray a young girl who is pleased to have some peccadillo overlooked only to weep when Gumdrop rescinds her mercy.)

Huey is a dynamo who mines every aspect of Gumdrop’s character and can be charming one minute and frightening the next. Her evolution from something wary of offending to a scourge of the Naughty is a joy to behold, even when Gumdrop’s Puritanism catapults out of control and threatens the joy of multitudes.

Michelle Dowdy is all sincerity as Raisin, the elf who doesn’t buy into all Santa and the North Pole purport to be. She often laughs at accepted lore and scoffs at traditions her fellow elves regard as sacrosanct.

Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and more played live by a 17-piece big band. $32 to $35. 3 p.m.

Dance

The Nutcracker, American Repertory Ballet, State Theater, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, 609-258-2787. www.arballet.org. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-thanlife mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. With live orchestra and choir. For ages 5 and up. $40 to $87. 1 and 5 p.m.

The Nutcracker, Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old

Kennedy Kanagawa, left, Aaron J. Albano, Jennifer Barnhart, Korie Lee Blossey, Diana Huey, and Brad Weinstock in ‘The Nice List’ at Bristol Riverside Theatre through Sunday, December 28.

It’s enjoyable to watch Dowdy go from being the rebel among characters to the one who sees the biggest picture and has the biggest capacity for being human.

During a preview performance, Dowdy injured her ankle. On opening night, she carried a cane and limped visibly. Muraoka has found clever ways for her to come on stage, such as riding in on rolling platforms that will later be used for desk or other office furniture.

Dowdy seems to be enjoying her character and brings out all of the common sense that goes into her non-conformity and fairer regard to others.

Korie Lee Blossey is a warm Santa whose worries upset you and whose discoveries delight. Blossey not only plays Santa well but has a deep, mellifluous voice that becomes more lovely and commanding when he sings. His song, “Santa’s Lament,” is particularly effective.

Kennedy Kanagawa obviously relishes being an elf. His movements are more enthusiastic and his knees are lifted higher those of his excellent peers. “The Nice List” is the third show in which I’ve seen Kanagawa, and he always brings smart energy to the stage. Even when leaving his character, Marzipan, behind to play the sullen girl Gumdrop won’t forgive or the vaudeville French Santa with all the Gallic touches.

Brad Weinstock is amusing as the macho elf from a tough neighborhood, New Yawk accent and all. Jennifer Barnhart is a delight as an elf, Cookie, and the handler of Comet.

Aaron J. Albano gets scarier and scarier as the supervisor bent on proving he’s the best manager ever.

Trenton Road, West Windsor. kelsey.mccc. edu. Young dancers from the Dance Connection perform an abridged and fully narrated version of the holiday classic. $22. 1 and 4 p.m.

On Stage

Kreutz and Adler have written a good score that has zest, lyrics that smack of bygone discipline, and that naughty/nice dichotomy that informs the entire show. “At Christmastime,” “Nice,” “They’re All Naughty,” and “Nobody’s Perfect” stand out for various reasons, but all of the songs and their performance hit a high mark.

Kreutz and Adler have been on my radar for a while. About seven years ago, another of their musicals, “A New World,” done at New Hope’s Bucks County Playhouse, ranked as the funniest and most refreshing new work I’d seen in years (or since). It was a loopy romance that recalled the screwball plots of 1940s movies and featured hilarious dialogue and lyrics. Alas, it was deemed controversial in some aspects and was left on the shelf. Kreutz and Adler, in conversation, told me it also had some structural problems they’d like to fix. Controversy and structure be dashed, especially the former. If I ever win a lottery, I’m producing “A New World.”

Dahlia Al-Habieli’s set was a glittery pastel that made a nice frame for “The Nice List.” Brian C. Hemesath’s costume accented the fun of Muraoka’s production (even if I worried Kennedy Kanagawa was going to trip over the pompoms on his boots). Joe Doran and Ryk Lewis did well on lighting and sound. Kylie Clark could not have designed a more adorable Comet.

The Nice List, Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. Through Sunday, December 28. Check online for the schedule. $73 to $83. www.brtstage.org or 215-7850100

friendly musical adventure. $20 to $68. 11 a.m.

A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Charles Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity adapted and directed by Lauren Keating. Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge. 1 and 5:30 p.m.

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater.org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is

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Abyssal Brewing Prepares to Open in Bordentown

Bordentown is oddly familiar with the concept of a heretoday-gone-tomorrow microbrewery.

The city’s first microbrewery in the modern era, Common Sense Brewing, opened in late 2017, only to close in 2019.

Luckily for local beer lovers, Steinert graduate Dan Pogorzelski and wife Marci Warboys were ready and willing to take over, opening Tindall Road Brewing Company later that summer.

Then there was Fox House Brewing. Owners Chris and Abby Campbell opened down the road on Farnsworth Avenue in March but closed three months later.

Yet once again, beer geeks will have the chance to sample locally made ales once again at the former Fox House location, as another new brewery is set to open in that space either this month or next: Abyssal Brewing.

Abyssal Brewing is a new business owned and operated by Hamilton High West graduates Daniel and Meagan Knowles. They will be assuming the lease on the building at 222 Farnsworth Avenue.

Daniel Knowles, 35, may be known to locals from his time as a bartender at Old Town Pub. He is also a long-time homebrewer who will be bringing that experience to the new venture.

The Hamilton High West graduate has been working in the restaurant business since he was 15. His first job was working birthday parties at Hamilton Lanes. Later, he worked at Red Robin and then Longhorn Steakhouse for a combined 10 years.

He says that as soon as he started homebrewing, he fell in love with the hobby. He has had a desire to

December 21

Continued from preceding page

transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toymaking abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and

open a craft brewery for a number of years. In fact, at the same time that Chris Campbell was working to open Fox House, Knowles was in the process of opening up his own brewery in Burlington City.

Knowles knew Campbell from his time at Old Town Pub, and he says the two entrepreneurs would often swap stories about their experiences of opening new breweries.

Ultimately, Knowles’ deal in Burlington City fell through, and he says now that he’s “beyond grateful” that it did.

“I love Bordentown, and I’m happy to stay a part of the community,” he says.

He is aiming to open in mid-December with between seven and ten beers on tap. But that all depends on how smoothly the state licensing process goes. That process is notoriously challenging to navigate.

One way or the other, Knowles is hopeful of being open for a soft launch at least by Christmas, acknowledging that a grand opening could end up getting pushed into the new year.

Once Abyssal is open, beers will be available for consumption on premises, as well as for takeaway in crowlers and growlers. Growler bottles may not be available from the start, but customers can bring their own as long as they are clean and sanitized.

Hazy India Pale Ale is the most popular craft beer style in the U.S. right now, and Knowles does brew them. But, he says, he loves to brew European-style beers, such as pub ales, dunkelweizen, and Czech lagers. He says he doesn’t have a signature style of beer he likes to brew.

“I love experimenting and doing tweaks on recipes,” he says.

up. 1:30 p.m.

Inspecting Carol, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA, 215-295-3694. www. actorsnetbucks.org. Behind the scenes of a struggling theatre company’s annual slapdash production of “A Christmas Carol,” rehearsals are at a standstill. Tim is no longer tiny, Scrooge wants to do the show in Spanish and their funding is on hold pending an inspection. When an impossibly bad actor is mistakenly identified as the inspector, the troupe does

by Joe Emanski

When Abyssal Brewing opens, it will have the same operating hours as Fox House, which is actually necessitated by a zoning variance. Those hours are Fridays from 4 to 10 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 10 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

To change the hours, Knowles would have to petition for a new variance.

The contacts in the brewing industry that he made during his four years tending bar at Old Town Pub have helped him to scale his homebrewing operation into a production microbrewery fairly quickly.

As is typical in the brewing industry, he has also received support and advice from brewers and business owners of other local operations. He cites Dave Ascione at Bent Iron Brewing in Hamilton, David Williams at Subculture Artisan Ales in Florence, Drew Noel at The Druery, and Jeff Greco, Ken Vaughan and Greg Florance at Heavy Reel as friendly competitors who have helped him get up and running.

“The kind folks at Tindall Road have offered their help as well,” he says.

The layout of the new taproom at 222 Farnsworth will remain close to the same, but Knowles is putting his own touches on the décor in advance of opening. He says that it will have a “haunted castle” vibe.

In terms of the kind of experience he wants customers to have, Knowles has said that he believes a brewery should be a space for talking about beer and community. For that reason, he says, there will not

everything to accommodate his craziest wishes. Mistaken identities lead to side-splitting comedy as opening night draws closer and it seems only a Christmas miracle will save this production. $24. 2 p.m.

A Merry Little Christmas Carol, Playhouse 22, East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, 732-254-3939. www.playhouse22.org. Play written by Mark Shanahan and directed by Erik Hall is a new take on the old Charles Dickens classic. $24. 2 p.m.

The 24 Days Before Christmas, Somerset Valley Players, 689 Amwell Road, Hillsborough, 908369-7469. www.svptheatre.org. The Austin family has a cherished tradition of doing something special every day counting down to Christmas – from baking cookies to decorating the tree. This year is a stressful one for Vicky Austin, as she’s cast as the youngest angel in the Christmas Pageant. Plus, the family is preparing for the birth of a new brother or sister. Will the baby wait until January? Will Vicky mess up her big role? Will Christmas be ruined? $24. 2 p.m.

Wellness

Free Class Yoga4Sobriety Plainsboro Municipal Building, 641 Plainsboro Road, Plainsboro. Yoga4Sobriety.com/schedule.

be any televisions at Abyssal Brewing when it opens.

“My focus will be on creating a taproom that gets people talking and engaging with each other,” he says.

At the start, Abyssal Brewing beer will be available only in the taproom. Knowles does not have plans to distribute to local bars or stores, but says that could change down the road.

Free 12 step-based yoga class. Beginners welcome; no experience required. Bring a mat and an open mind. No registration required for in-person attendance; visit website for access via Zoom. 9 to 10:15 a.m.

History

Winter Solstice History/Nature

Hike Historical Society of Princeton, Princeton Battlefield Parking Lot, 500 Mercer Road, Princeton. www.princetonhistory. org. Join us on a hike through the treasured Institute Woods to explore bits of history, as well as the sites and sounds that form this unique and serene setting. Register. 1:30 to 4 p.m.

Princeton History Walking Tour, Historical Society of Princeton Princeton Battle Monument, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton. www. princetonhistory.org. Walk around downtown Princeton and the University campus as you learn about historic sites in the area, including Nassau Hall, University Chapel and Palmer Square. $20. Register. 2 to 4 p.m.

Outdoor Action

Forest Restoration Along Continental Lane, Washington Crossing State Park, 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville. www.wcpa-nj. com/wcpa-events. Use hand tools to remove invasive plants that threaten the forest ecosystem. The more invasive plants cleared, the more native seedlings can be planted in 2026. Meet us at the small parking lot on the left, just past the State Park’s main entrance. Ages 16+. No experience necessary. Bring work gloves and loppers if you have them. Extra gloves and tools provided. 8:45 a.m. to noon.

For more information, visit abyssalbrewing.com

Shopping News

Off the Wall Holiday Market, West Windsor Arts Council, 952 Alexander Road, West Windsor. www.westwindsorarts.org. Last day for holiday market featuring artisan-made products, from pieces of fine art to individually curated, handcrafted artisanal items. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Artist Winter Village, Arts Council of Princeton, Hinds Plaza, Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Festive pop-up shops, run by talented regional creatives, offer fun and unique gifts in cozy textiles, jewelry, hand-poured candles, charming children’s wear, pottery, wood, and more. Additional artists join from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Noon to 6 p.m.

Pop Music

Winter Solstice Celebration, Friends of Herrontown Woods, Veblen House, Herrontown Woods, 452 Herrontown Road, Princeton. www.herrontownwoods.org. Honor the land and the changing season at an intimate celebration of the Winter Solstice at Herrontown Woods. Limited to 25 people. Register. Free. 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Monday December 22

Last Night of Hannukah.

Pop Music

An American Christmas Songbook, Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Singers and musicians including

Hamilton High West graduates Daniel and Meagan Knowles are the people behind the soon-tobe new brewery in Bordentown, Abyssal Brewing.

Area Artists on the Work and Wisdom of Mel Leipzig

Aby Thomas Kelly

bright light has gone out in the art world. Mel Leipzig, painter, professor, supporter and humble human died in October at the age of 90.

He painted large canvases of people he knew, in their natural settings of home and work. Mel Leipzig has won many accolades, is in many museum collections, and has painted nearly everyone he has ever met. He was a professor of art at Mercer County Community College for 45 years, retiring at the age of 78.

I have asked local artists and former students of Mel’s to share some memories. Using these memories is just a peek into the knowledge, work ethic, and enthusiasm with which Mel has endowed us.

I studied with Mel at Mercer longer than most, as I was attending part-time at night, and it took 10 years for me to get a two-year degree in fine arts. Mel was my adviser, mentor, critic, and friend.

One day around year three, I brought Mel a newly finished painting of mine for him to critique. Mel said, “This is terrific. You do not need to show me your paintings anymore. You know what you are doing. Just keep doing it!”

I walked out of that room feeling 10 feet tall. Mel had a way of encouraging artists to keep going, keep the faith, and keep working at their art.

Maria Raimondo

Artist, art educator, Robbinsville

Mel Leipzig taught me that art is not only about what we create, but how we see the world. His belief in me gave me the courage to explore, to take risks, and to find my voice through my work. He saw potential when I doubted myself and reminded me that creativity is an act of faith — faith in the process, in imperfection, and in possibility. His encouragement and wisdom will always guide me, both in art and in life.

Sean Carney

Artist, art educator, Robbinsville

I had the pleasure of meeting Mel in the mid-2000s. He had been selected as the artist in residence at Lawrence High School, where I work. This continued for four years.

During that time, Mel created a series of paintings of our classrooms, students, and staff. I had the honor of being painted twice, along with my children. I often cite him as one of my biggest influences. He was kind, passionate, and incredibly intelligent.

Kathi Littwin

Artist, photography, New York

Mel was a great teacher, no bones about it. I had the great privilege to also be one of the students he hired as a model. What a treat to see myself immortalized.

It was also a chance to see a beautiful painting develop over time, how the composition came about and then the final impactful result. I do wish I knew where that painting ended up.

He was adamant about the fact that he painted from nature and had a dislike of photography, but he never held it against me. His interest and support were always there.

Aundreta Wright

Artist, art educator, Hamilton

Mel would tell me, “Aundreta, you should be painting every day!” I told him I have three kids and am working two jobs. He said, “Ah, you should be painting every day anyway!” I said, “You have Mary Jo (Mel’s wife, who died in 2007) at home. At my house, I am also Mary Jo.”

Pat Proniewski

Artist, Hamilton

Mel inspired his students with countless thoughts about appreciating and creating art. Two things that quickly come to mind which he often said are:

• Everything is paintable. Every subject. Nothing is off limits. Paint what is meaningful or interesting to you.

• You only need four colors (later Mel said maybe five colors). They are yellow, a dark cool red, a dark blue, and white. Later, Mel added black.

Kristi Zoldi

Artist, designer, Hamilton

I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had the “legend” Mel Leipzig as my art history professor at MCCC. Mel filled the lecture hall with the type of passion that only comes from a subject you love.

Mel taught me to love art history, but also, that I could feel connected to a subject and actually be interested in absorbing the material. I will always be grateful for Mel enabling me to look like an absolute genius to my family and friends when we visited Giverny, Monet’s Garden in France. Thank you, Mel Leipzig!

M. Kitty Getlik

Artistic director and manager, Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor

When Mel told me he wanted to paint Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, I thought, “How boring. There are 385 identical red chairs.” But I don’t have an artist’s eyes.

As I watched him paint, I saw each chair come alive individually. Differences in light and shadow made each one unique. Then he asked me to pose to be in the painting, in the position I usually stand in when a show is going on. I was honored to be his model, and he even insisted on paying me a modeling fee. I framed that check.

Jonathan Connor (Lank)

Artist, art educator, Trenton

Mel taught me many things about art and life, all of which I try to carry forward. Technically, he showed how the great paintings were structured and held together through strong composition. Personally, he showed what it meant to be a kind and generous person who cared for their family, students and community.

Greg Ludwig

Artist, photographer, Ewing

I took several courses with Mel, including multiple painting classes and art history. I took AP art courses in high school, but Mel’s was the first course I took where I could tell I was learning from a master.

His ability to work with a limited palette was extraordinary. Mel almost never used white, black or secondary colors. I went on to become a photographer (which he always gave me heck for), but I knew he still cared and was happy to see his students pursue their passions.

Lucas Kelly

Artist, art educator, Bordentown

Mel taught me many things as a student, but one lesson I still hear in his voice (while watching him point at a slightly yellowed slide of Manet’s “Olympia”) is: “If that black ribbon wasn’t there, this painting would not work.”

Later, as a young professor, I learned from him that building confidence is just as essential as building skill. Mel celebrated every student’s effort with genuine enthusiasm, creating a supportive community of practice in all his classes.

Chee Bravo

Artist, Miami

“Be persistent and never doubt your ability as an artist.” Mel was my neighbor when I lived in Trenton. In 2024, he painted a diptych of me for his artists’ series. During the painting sessions, he shared many of his wonderful stories.

His Yale story about his strained relationship with his professor Josef Albers and his color-theory teachings comes to mind. This he found hilarious every time he told me that story.

Khalilah Sabree

Artist, art educator, Columbus

As a Trenton-based artist and retired art teacher, I considered Mel my informal master teacher. Passionate, direct and generous, he spoke honestly about the complexities of race and representation in art.

When Mel painted my son and me, he shared lessons that still guide me: to see deeply, feel honestly and to remember that a painting should invite you in, that you should sense that you can step inside it. His wisdom lives on.

Leon Rainbow

Artist, Trenton

In 2018, I was honored to do a two-person show, “Leon and Mel” at Lakefront Gallery at RWJ Hospital in Hamilton. It was one of the best memories that I had with Mel, and it was amazing to see the community support that we received.

It was inspiring for me to work with Mel, and that we could learn from each other.

Dan Hodgkinson

Artist, Roebling

Mel showed me how to paint the world with my eyes and to observe through different color values. Through his love of art, he made each student feel the world was full of possibilities. Because of his excitement, all of us would experience the expression of our own true art.

Ilene Dube

Artist, writer, filmmaker, Princeton Junction

After leaving the Princeton Packet newspaper, I suddenly had the time to take a class with Mel at MCCC. Once there, I learned that his students signed up for his classes year after year after year. One student who’d been taking his class for 30 years lived to be 100. Clearly, taking Mel’s class was part of her secret to longevity.

I first met him about 35 years ago, when he spoke so compassionately at the funeral of artist Jim Colavita. He was not afraid to cry in public. I was lucky to interview him many times, and to curate exhibitions with his work.

Janet Purcell

Artist, writer, Hopewell

I have so many Mel stories, but most are long and involved. One is from when the Trenton City Museum gave me a solo exhibit in 2019 in the first room on the right when you enter.

I told Mel that I was so happy when I heard he was exhibiting in the other two rooms, because that would bring people to the museum. Sweet man that he was, he said: “Funny you should say that, I was thinking the same thing about you.”

Addison Vincent

Artist, creative director, Artworks Trenton

Although I never had Mel as a professor, I learned so much from him in a different capacity. The consummate teacher, Mel’s words of wisdom always echo in my head. He taught me to be passionate about whatever I’m doing, whether it was art, relationships with others, or just thinking. Mel taught people to realize they were creative, you just need to find your medium.

Aubrey J. Kauffman

Artist, photographer, Ewing

I am not a painter. I’m a photographer. Mel once saw us photographers a as point of some polite ribbing whenever we were in a gathering. ‘Oh, you did all this in one day.’ But it was a relationship that grew and grew. Mel convinced me that I needed a masters degree. Grad school opened a whole new world for me. Mel noticed it in my work. He was always a great artist, mentor, dinner guest and friend who cared about the things that mattered. I will miss him.

Rebecca Singleton

Artist, art educator, Hamilton

In ceramics, Mel said: “Rebecca, stop playing with dishes and come paint!” Mel revealed art as a community, planning class trips and artist lectures. I feel comfortable in galleries because of him. Mel quotes: “Art is meant to be seen”; “I never met a starving artist”; and “Just paint.”

While lecturing at Art All Night, he spontaneously shared: “Maybe I can stay to paint” … scanning the crowd…”Rebecca! You’ll pose for me!” It wasn’t a question.

Mary Yess

Artist, Hamilton

As a painter, I was fascinated with his demos, particularly the Manet one, and with his open, joyful enthusiasm for painting. He was a kind, generous, and oh-so-supportive person; but also wasn’t shy about making a few piquant comments about certain media or genres. My best experiences came from working with him on the massive “Eyes on Trenton” project (1981-82), which, in Mel’s own words, was “terrific.” And, simply put, so was Mel.

David Orban

Artist, Hamilton

I learned all about composition from Mel; how to construct a visual ‘map’ that would use shape, color, tone, and negative space to guide the viewer into and through the painting.

But the most important thing that I got from Mel was encouragement… and lots of it! Mel was the greatest cheerleader ever, and while I took direct inspiration from his work as a painter, I tried very hard to emulate that “cheerleader” aspect during my teaching years.

Jim Gordon

Artist, supporter of the arts, patron, Trenton My takeaway from Mel Leipzig is: keep painting and be kind.

The center panel of Leipzig’s triptych of ceramicist and painter Toshiko Takaeku, who taught at Princeton from 1967 to 1992.

PRE VIEW

Filmmaker Documents South Africa’s Lion Crisis

When Robbinsville na-

tive Nathan Oliva set out to make his senior thesis film at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), he didn’t plan on following lions through the South African bush.

But one conversation changed everything: A friend in Cape Town mentioned that her father ran a wildlife sanctuary where rescued lions roamed free.

Within weeks, Oliva was on a plane, camera in hand, ready to capture a story that would alter the course of his young career.

The resulting short documentary, “Cornellskop: Freedom From Fear,” introduces viewers to the world of Luke Cornell, founder of the Cornellskop Animal Sanctuary in Bot River, South Africa.

Set against the rugged beauty of the Van der Stel Pass Valley, the film exposes the brutal realities of South Africa’s captive-bred lion industry — animals raised for tourism and trophy hunts, then killed and sold into the global bone trade.

Oliva captures Cornell’s resolve and tells a story of resilience and redemption that unfolds far from the spotlight. Shot over six days in November, 2024, the film combines sweeping cinematography with intimate interviews.

A small team of South African collaborators — including cinematographers Mike Faraday and Matthew Alexander, and producer Dixie Cornell — helped Oliva capture the connection between humans and animals. Their lens work turns the sanctuary itself into a character: vast, sun-drenched, and filled with both tension and hope.

Narration by actor Peter Coyote, the Emmy-winning voice behind Ken Burns’ “The Vietnam War” and “The Roosevelts,” helped to lend the project a sense of authority and warmth.

Drawn to the film’s message of ethical stewardship, Coyote joined the production to amplify its call for awareness. His voice guides

December 22

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Interview by Bill Sanservino

viewers through Cornell’s daily life — walking among lions, tending to rescues, and confronting the lingering scars of an industry that profits from cruelty.

The film’s authenticity owes much to the bonds Oliva formed in South Africa. Supported by Sony Alpha South Africa, the crew relied on lightweight FX6 and FX3 cameras to navigate the unpredictable challenges of working with wildlife.

Their collaboration blurred the lines between work and friendship, resulting in a film that feels both cinematic and deeply personal — a tribute to teamwork and shared purpose.

Since its completion in April, 2025, “Cornellskop: Freedom From Fear” has already found success on the festival circuit, earning Best Documentary Short Film honors at the Hamilton NY International Film Festival.

It was also screened at the NYC Short Doc Festival, the South Africa Indie Film Festival, and the 2025 SCAD Savannah Film Festival.

U.S. 1 recently conducted an e-mail interview with Oliva about his journey from local student to international filmmaker, his time at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and the message behind “Cornellskop: Freedom From Fear.” His responses appear in the Q&A below, which has been lightly edited.

Why did you choose Cornellskop Animal Sanctuary as the centerpiece of your film?

I was first introduced to the Cornellskop Animal Sanctuary while working with Moonsport TV during the summer of 2024 in Cape Town, South Africa. While I was filming a documentary about a rugby tournament, my good friend and the producer of the project, Dixie Cornell, told me about her dad’s

stage to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs. $56. 2 p.m. On Stage

The Year Without a Santa Claus Prince-

farm, Luke Cornell’s sanctuary with lions and other wildlife.

From the moment I toured the sanctuary, I was struck not only by the incredible animals, but by the deep, familial bond each one shared with Luke. I watched him walk side by side with his lion pride and learned about the sanctuary’s beginnings and the harsh reality of canned hunting in South Africa. With his powerful presence and genuine love for the animals, Luke immediately established himself as an extraordinary subject for the documentary.

How did your time at the Savannah College of Art and Design influence this project?

I couldn’t be more grateful for the people I’ve met at SCAD and the professors who have always had my back, along with my team’s. We built a dream team of friends and collaborators who share the same vision and drive to create incredible work. SCAD has this intense, immersive environment that naturally pushes you to form close bonds with your teammates.

Countless late nights and hours

ton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. In this 1974 special, Santa Claus is on the brink of cancelling Christmas when he catches a cold. In an attempt to change his mind, Mrs. Claus sends two elves in a search for evidence that the Christmas spirit is still alive and well. $5. 10:30 a.m.

Good Causes

Arm In Arm Mobile Food Pantry, Mercer County Library, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. www.arminarm.org. Food and personal care products made available to those in need. No registration required. The Lawrence Township Health Department, the Mercer County Board of Social Services and the Mercer County Nutrition Program will have informational tables. 2 to 4 p.m.

Tuesday December 23

native Nathan Oliva, above, created the documentary short ‘Cornellskop: Freedom from Fear’ for his senior thesis at the Savannah College of Art and Design.

spent on collaborative projects reveal who you really work well with, and everyone is willing to go the extra mile to bring a vision to life. Beyond the friendships and teamwork, SCAD taught me to approach storytelling with both ambition and care. Every project is a lesson in problem-solving, creativity, and trusting your instincts, even when things get complicated.

Professor Christopher Brannan was an incredible mentor throughout the process, always supporting our ideas while guiding us with his expertise whenever we felt stuck.

My time at SCAD taught me not just how to make a project, but how to build a team that can turn ambitious ideas into reality.

Can you describe the experience of working with your team of friends on the project?

Pop Music

An American Christmas Songbook Bristol Riverside Theater, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. www.brtstage.org. Singers and musicians including Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the stage to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs. $56. 2 p.m.

On Stage

A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Charles Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity adapted and directed by Lauren Keating. Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge. 1 and 5:30 p.m.

On location in South Africa, we had an incredibly small but dedicated team of just four friends. The two cinematographers, Mike Faraday and Matt Alexander, are my close friends who live and work in Cape Town.

With their quick thinking and cinematic expertise, we were able to capture the stunning landscape and truly do it justice on screen. My good friend Jeremy Ryall, a talented director also based in Cape Town, joined us for a few days to offer his insights, adding another layer of creative perspective.

We were also fortunate to have our producer, Dixie Cornell, ensuring production ran smoothly, both on and off set while allowing the rest of the team to focus on the creative work.

I am incredibly thankful to my friends in South Africa who made

list gets shorter and shorter until it seems like no one will get presents at all. Family friendly musical adventure. $20 to $68. 7 p.m.

Elf: The Musical Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater.org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The wouldbe elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 7:30 p.m.

Film

The Grinch, Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. When the Whos of Whoville decide to make Christmas bigger and brighter, the disgruntled Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch) realizes there is only one way to gain peace and quiet. He hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus in order to

Robbinsville

Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the

A still from ‘Cornellskop: Freedom from Fear’ showing some of the rescued lions living at the titular wildlife sanctuary.

this project possible. Working with this team is not only highly effective but genuinely enjoyable, and I can’t wait to see what we create together on our next project.

How did you secure Peter Coyote as the narrator, and what do you feel his voice added to the film?

The producer of the project, Jack Bart, reached out to Peter Coyote, who has extensive experience narrating documentaries, most notably through his longtime collaborations with Ken Burns. As a wildlife activist himself, Peter was immediately drawn to the story of Cornellskop and was happy to lend his voice to the project.

He was eager not only to support a student-led film, but also to be part of a message he deeply believes in. His distinctive voice brings a level of professionalism, warmth, and authority that elevates the story and gives the film that extra layer of credibility and depth.

What role do you think filmmakers can play in sparking conversations about wildlife protection?

I think filmmakers have a unique ability to bridge the gap between people and the parts of the world they may never experience firsthand. Growing up, I would go see the Disneynature movies in theaters with my family and be amazed by the incredible animals, people, and cultures I was seeing.

I wanted to experience that, but even more, I wanted to bring it to others who might never get the chance. When you show real stories and honest moments between humans and animals, you make people care in a way that statistics or articles can’t. Film has the power to create empathy.

You can watch a story unfold and suddenly feel connected to something happening on the other side of the planet. For me, it’s not about preaching or trying to tell people what to think. It’s about showing something real and letting the audience feel it for themselves. If a film can make someone stop and think, even for a moment, about the importance of protecting wildlife, then it’s already done its job.

How does winning “Best Documentary Short Film” at the Hamilton NY International Film Festival shape your expectations for future screenings?

Winning was incredible validation for our team, as it was our first festival and we couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. It shows that our storytelling resonated, and that audiences and juries saw merit in our work.

I also feel more responsibility: because the film has that award behind it, people will come in with expectations. So I want to deliver every time, bringing that same care, authenticity, and craft to every screening or presentation as well as myself and the team’s future work together.

What kind of international response do you hope the film receives?

What I really hope for is connection. This story comes from a specific place in South Africa, but the themes of compassion, responsibility, and the relationship between humans and animals are universal.

If audiences in completely different parts of the world can feel something from it, whether that’s curiosity, empathy, or even just awareness, then that’s a huge success to me.

Do you plan to continue making films on conservation and wildlife, or do you see yourself branching into other topics?

Absolutely. Wildlife and culture will always be close to what drives me as a filmmaker, but I am also drawn to stories that explore the moral and cultural complexities of how humans interact with animals.

My next project looks into the world of Spanish bullfighting, exploring Spain’s bullfighting world, capturing the culture, controversy, and the lives shaped by this ancient ritual. Through the voices of matadors, breeders, and lifelong fans, the film explores why this ritual

steal Christmas and silence the Whos holiday cheer once and for all. $5. 10 a.m.

Dancing

Tuesday Night Folk Dance, Princeton Folk Dance, Christ Congregation, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton. www.princetonfolkdance.org. No partner necessary. $5. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Farm Markets

Winter Farmers Market, Chickadee Creek Farm, 80 Titus Mill Road, Pennington. chickadeecreekfarm.com. 8-11 local vendors on site. 2 to 5 p.m.

Socials

Kwanzaa 365 Lighting Ceremony, Smith Family Foundation, Trenton City Hall, 319 East State Street, Trenton. Kick of Kwanzaa with a celebration of Kujichagulia (selfdetermination: “to define ourselves, name ourselves, create ourselves, and speak for ourselves”). 2 to 5 p.m.

still holds meaning for so many people and what happens when centuries of heritage come face to face with evolving ethics.

What advice would you give to young filmmakers who want to combine storytelling with advocacy?

Honestly, I’m at the beginning of all this and figuring things out as I go. What’s helped me most is working with people who are really strong in their own crafts and balance out what I bring to the table. When everyone leans into what they do best, it creates this natural rhythm where great work just happens. When you build a team like that, people who care about the story and about making something meaningful, you naturally find yourself in situations where great work can happen.

If you want to combine storytelling with advocacy, start by caring deeply about what you’re filming and the people you’re filming with. Don’t wait to feel ready. Just start making things, learn from the process, and let your passion guide you toward the stories that matter. What did your parents do for a living, and did they influence your career decisions?

Neither of my parents work in fields related to film, but they’ve always fully supported what I do and the decisions I make. Even the ones that might seem questionable at first. They’ve always had my back, and I’m really thankful for that.

Were there any teachers, mentors, or experiences at Robbinsville High School that encouraged your path toward filmmaking?

At Robbinsville High School, the biggest influence on my jour-

On Stage

Wednesday December 24

Christmas Eve. Live Music

Christmas Eve Sing-Along Green at Palmer Square, Princeton. www.palmersquare.com. The Palmer Square Christmas Eve Brass Band leads caroling. Santa visits following the singing. 5 to 6 p.m.

Art

Festival of Trees, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609924-8144. www.morven.org. Annual juried collection of ornamental trees and mantels displayed throughout the museum’s galleries. On view through Wednesdays through Sundays through January 11. $12. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ney toward filmmaking was the Dual Enrollment program with Mercer County Community College. Through this program, I was able to spend the second half of each school day taking collegelevel film courses alongside college students, all while still in high school. Every class I completed transferred to SCAD, allowing me to graduate an entire year early. More importantly, those courses gave me an early foundation in filmmaking concepts and techniques, helping me shape my creative style and develop a clear sense of the kind of filmmaker I wanted to become.

When you think back to being a student in Robbinsville, did you ever imagine your work would be screened at festivals alongside famous names like Rian Johnson, Mark Hamill, and Jennifer Lopez?

Not at all. It wasn’t until I got to SCAD that I realized how within reach it actually was. The school has the resources, the connections and professors who know the industry inside and out. It really just comes down to putting in the work and taking advantage of what’s in front of you.

From there, it started to feel less like a dream and more like something that my team and I could make happen. It made me take my work more seriously, but also appreciated the process, the trial and error, the small wins, and the moments when something finally clicks.

Seeing my film play alongside those kinds of names isn’t just significant because of the names, but it feels like proof that the effort, the late nights, and the learning actually led somewhere. It makes me want to keep pushing, not to chase

A Christmas Carol McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Charles Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity adapted and directed by Lauren Keating. Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge. Noon and 4 p.m.

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater.org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The wouldbe elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 p.m. Film

Elf Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princetonli-

names, but to keep leveling up what I make and how I tell stories.

I’m incredibly grateful to my professor, Kevin McCarey, a director at National Geographic for over 20 years, for mentoring me and I’m equally thankful to my friends and collaborators at SCAD like Jack Bart and Grace Lavery. This was a team effort, and they brought skills and ideas to the project that I could never have accomplished on my own.

How do you hope your story might inspire young people in town who are considering creative careers?

I’d tell them to just go do it. Don’t be afraid to leave for a while and get some perspective. You have to see how people live, create, and think in different parts of the world because that’s where your voice really starts to take shape. Learn as much as you can, make mistakes, stay up way too late working on things you love, and be completely obsessed with getting better. If you do that, even a smalltown start can turn into something way bigger than you imagined. When I left Robbinsville, I didn’t really know what I was chasing. Meeting people from all over showed me how many ways there are to see the world, and that changed how I tell stories. It keeps me curious, and that curiosity is what drives me more than anything. I’m really thankful for SCAD and everyone there who helped shape how I work.

The professors and friends I’ve met made the hard parts of filmmaking feel worth it. They pushed me, gave honest feedback, and made it feel like I wasn’t doing this alone. That’s what made the difference for me.

brary.org. Will Ferrell is Buddy, a man raised as an elf at the North Pole who after inadvertently wreaking havoc on the elf community due to his ungainly size – is sent to New York in search of his father. $5. 10 a.m.

Faith

Service of Lessons and Carols St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, York and Main streets, Lambertville. www.standrewslambertville.org. The service follows that of King’s College, Cambridge, England, adapted from an 1880 Christmas Eve service in Truro, England. It offers nine Lessons from Christian scripture, hymns, carols, and anthems. The choir, under the direction of Michael T. Kevane, leads singing of traditional carols presents Renaissance motets of Tomas Luis da Victoria and William Byrd, settings of traditional carols, and 20th century works by John Rutter and John Gardner. Rescheduled from December 14 due to snow storm. Free. 5 p.m.

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