SOPAC Season 20 Brochure (2025-2026) by sopacnow

SEASON AT A GLANCE

STELLA COLE

SEP 5 • 7:30PM

FRIENDS OF THE BROTHERS:

A Celebration of the Allman Brothers Band

SEP 6 • 7:30PM

RUBEN STUDDARD

SEP 7 • 7:30PM

CASEY ABRAMS & FRIENDS

SEP 11 • 7:30PM

STEPHANE WREMBEL

QUARTET

SEP 12 • 7:30PM

AN EVENING WITH EMILY KING

SEP 13 • 7:30PM

DAVID KOECHNER

SEP 14 • 7:30PM

CIMAFUNK

SEP 19 • 7:30PM

THE IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY

SEP 21 • 7:30PM

MASTERS OF THE TELECASTER

SEP 26 • 7:30PM

PETTY PEOPLE WITH STEVE FERRONE

OCT 3 • 7:30PM

NATURALLY 7

OCT 5 • 7:30PM

RED BARAAT

OCT 10 • 7:30PM

PEABO BRYSON: Celebrating 50 Years in Music

OCT 11 • 7:30PM

HEALING SOUNDS IN THE LOFT OCT 12 • 5PM & 7PM

SETON HALL PRESENTS: Jazz in the HallLionel Hampton Big Band OCT 14 • 7PM

JOSHUA RADIN OCT 16 • 7:30PM

REMEMBER JONES:

Bat Out Of Hell LIVE OCT 17 • 7:30PM

CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA OCT 18 • 7:30PM

SETON HALL’S CLASSICAL CONCERT SERIES – VIVA VERDI: Great Moments from the Grand Stage NOV 13 • 7PM

THE LAST WALTZ CELEBRATION NOV 14 • 7:30PM

THE HOT SARDINES NOV 16 • 7:30PM

SETON HALL PRESENTS: JAZZ IN THE HALL Military Veteran All Stars NOV 18 • 7PM

LADIES OF LAUGHTER NOV 20 • 7:30PM

JOHN SCOFIELD TRIO NOV 21 • 7:30PM

PANTO’S THE LITTLE MERMAID NOV 22 • 1PM

CABARET IN THE LOFT PRESENTS:

Corinna Sowers Adler “Something Beautiful” NOV 23 • 7:30PM

GIANTS OF JAZZ NOV 29 • 7:30PM

SETON HALL ANNUAL WINTER CONCERT DEC 4 • 7PM

DIRTY DEEDS The AC/DC Experience DEC 6 • 7:30PM

SO JEWISH COMEDY NIGHT DEC 14 • 7:30PM

IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA DEC 18 • 7:30PM

AN EVENING WITH STORM LARGE DEC 19 • 7:30PM

SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER DEC 20 • 7:30PM

JOHN PIZZARELLI DEC 21 • 7:30PM

WELCOME TO SEASON 20

Dear Friends,

For twenty years, SOPAC has been a place where unforgettable performances spark connection, where neighbors become friends, and where art brings our community closer. This season, the South Orange Performing Arts Center proudly celebrates two decades at the heart of the arts and our community.

Since opening our doors, SOPAC has become more than a venue — it’s a creative home where artists, neighbors, educators, and students come together to share powerful performances and meaningful moments. At the center of it all is you — our incredible community of supporters who make it all possible.

To mark our 20th anniversary, we’ve curated a season filled with celebration, familiar favorites, and exciting new discoveries. Join us for Holi with Red Baraat, the Afro-Cuban rhythms of Cimafunk (thanks to our valued partnership with the Gia Maione Prima Foundation), and the vocal brilliance of a cappella masters Naturally 7. We open the season with rising star Stella Cole and welcome Casey Abrams of Postmodern Jukebox for a night of vintage-meets-modern flair.

Inside this brochure, you’ll find a lineup of inspiring performances, details on our Arts in Education programs, the Herb + Milly Iris Gallery, and ways to get involved.

As we honor the past and look ahead to the future, I invite you to celebrate with us — by attending a performance, becoming a member, or making a gift in honor of our 20th season.

Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to two decades of unforgettable moments and the many still to come.

With gratitude,

Lana Rogachevskaya Executive Director, SOPAC

STELLA COLE

SEP 5 • 7:30PM

Jazz • Rising Star • Timeless Vocals

Watching Stella Cole perform is like stepping back in time, with her infectious joy and wonder. Her debut album showcases her unique interpretations of classics from Barbra Streisand, Judy Garland, and even Billie Eilish. With a rich tone and extraordinary vocal control, Stella connects deeply with her audience, making timeless songs feel personal and new, solidifying her place as one of the most exciting artists of her generation.

FRIENDS OF THE BROTHERS

SEP 6 • 7:30PM

Tribute Band • Classic Rock • Authentic and Soulful

Get ready for an unforgettable night with Friends of the Brothers, the ultimate tribute to the Allman Brothers Band. This group is comprised of musicians deeply connected to the original band. Each performance is unique, featuring songs from every era of the band’s career. Friends of the Brothers delivers an authentic and passionate tribute that honors the legacy of the Allman Brothers Band with heart and soul.

RUBEN STUDDARD

SEP 7 • 7:30PM

American Idol Winner • Grammy Nominee • Soul/R&B, Pop, Gospel Ruben Studdard, Grammy Award nominee and winner of American Idol Season 2, has become one of R&B’s most beloved voices. After celebrating two decades in music with Clay Aiken on their Twenty The Tour, Ruben continues to captivate audiences with his new album The Way I Remember It. With his signature smooth vocals and heartfelt performances, “The Velvet Teddy Bear” remains a defining force in pop, gospel, and soul music.

CASEY ABRAMS & FRIENDS

SEP 11 • 7:30PM

Genre-defying • Iconic Music • American Idol Finalist

Join Casey Abrams & Friends—featuring American Idol finalist Casey Abrams, pop-soul sensation Dylan Chambers, and acclaimed vocalist Hunter—for an unforgettable journey through 60 years of iconic music. Casey’s genre-blending artistry, Dylan’s funk-infused pop, and Hunter’s soulful, throwback-inspired vocals create a dynamic and thrilling live experience. Together, they deliver a genre-spanning celebration that honors musical legends while showcasing the next generation of star performers.

STEPHANE WREMBEL QUARTET

SEP 12 • 7:30PM

Guitar • Gypsy Jazz • Virtuoso

Stephane Wrembel is a world-renowned gypsy jazz guitarist whose virtuosic technique, innovative spirit, and electrifying live shows have made him a leading voice in modern jazz. Blending Django Reinhardt’s legacy with his own visionary style, Wrembel’s music enchants and inspires.

AN EVENING WITH EMILY KING

SEP 13 • 7:30PM

Grammy-nominated • Singer/Songwriter • Lush Vocals

Emily King is a four-time Grammy-nominated singersongwriter from NYC, celebrated for her lush vocals, acclaimed albums, and collaborations with artists like Norah Jones and Robert Glasper. Her magnetic stage presence and genre-spanning sound make every performance unforgettable.

DAVID KOECHNER

SEP 14 • 7:30PM

Comedy • SNL/The Office • Contagious Energy

David Koechner-best known as Todd Packer (The Office) and Champ Kind (Anchorman)-brings his signature comedic genius to the stage. With over 200 film and TV credits, live stand-up, and a heart for charity, Koechner’s show promises non-stop laughs and unforgettable moments.

CIMAFUNK

SEP 19 • 7:30PM

Afro-Cuban • Funk • Grammy-Nominated Cimafunk is the Grammy-nominated Cuban sensation redefining global funk with his explosive fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms, soul, and show-stopping energy. Hailed as “a mustsee act” by Rolling Stone, Cimafunk’s live shows are a joyful, electrifying celebration that unites audiences across borders and generations. This show is sponsored by the Gia Maione Prima Foundation.

THE IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY

SEP 21 • 7:30PM

Comedy • Improv • Shakespeare

The Improvised Shakespeare Company® creates a brand-new, fully improvised Shakespearean play every night, based on one audience suggestion. Critically acclaimed and riotously funny, ISC delivers spontaneous comedy with the language and themes of the Bard—no script, just pure, unpredictable brilliance.

MASTERS OF THE TELECASTER

SEP 26 • 7:30PM

Guitar • Blues and Roots Rock • Living Legends

Masters of the Telecaster unites guitar icons GE Smith, Larry Campbell, and Jim Weider for a historic night of Blues & Roots Rock & Roll. Backed by a killer rhythm section, they tear through classics by Roy Buchanan, Little Richard, the Rolling Stones, and more—don’t miss these living legends in action!

PETTY PEOPLE WITH STEVE FERRONE

OCT 3 • 7:30PM

Tribute Band • Roots Rock • Tom Petty

Petty People brings Tom Petty’s legendary catalog to life with uncanny authenticity, led by singer Evan Kremin and supported by some of New York’s top musicians, including drummer for The Heartbreakers, Steve Ferrone. Their immersive, multi-media show combines spot-on renditions of Petty’s hit ballads, anthems, and rockers with stunning visuals, behind-the-scenes stories creating an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.

NATURALLY 7

OCT 5 • 7:30PM

Movie Music • A Capella Wizards • Global Phenomenons

Prepare to be amazed by Naturally 7, the groundbreaking vocal group that turns their voices into a full band, performing everything from drums to guitars and horns—live and without instruments. Their latest show and album, N7@ The Movies, reimagines beloved film soundtracks—think Titanic, The Sound of Music, James Bond, and more—with their signature blend of precision, energy, and soul. It promises to be an unforgettable night that will leave you wondering how it’s even possible.

RED BARAAT

OCT 10 • 7:30PM

Indian • Fun Fusion • Funk/Ska/Jazz/Hip-Hop

Red Baraat is Brooklyn’s globally acclaimed bhangra-funk juggernaut, blending North Indian rhythms with hip-hop, jazz, and punk for an electrifying, unifying live show. Hailed as “the best party band in years” (NPR), they turn every performance into a joyful, multicultural celebration.

PEABO BRYSON: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN MUSIC

OCT 11 • 7:30PM

Grammy winner • Iconic Voice • Soul/R&B

Peabo Bryson stands as one of the most celebrated male vocalists in contemporary music, renowned for his lush, operatic voice and a career spanning five decades. A two-time Grammy and two-time Academy Award winner, with over 20 albums, 25 Top 20 singles, he has earned the title “King of Balladeers”.

JOSHUA RADIN

OCT 16 • 7:30PM

1 billion streams • Like Paul Simon & James Taylor • 200+ TV shows & films

A Joshua Radin concert offers more than music — itʼs a heartfelt, communal experience led by an artist who values connection over spectacle. Whether youʼre drawn to soul-stirring lyrics, acoustic elegance, or the warmth of a storyteller, his shows leave a lasting impression.

REMEMBER JONES: BAT OUT OF HELL LIVE!

OCT 17 • 7:30PM

Live Rock Opera • Best-Selling Album Meat Loaf’s Distinctive Style

Remember Jones’ Bat Out of Hell tribute is a must-see for fans of Meat Loaf and anyone looking for a high-energy, theatrical rock experience. The show is an exhilarating experience, with Jones’ infectious energy and the band’s tight performance ensuring that the audience is fully engaged throughout.

CINDY BLACKMAN SANTANA GROUP

OCT 18 • 7:30PM

Jazz/Rock/Funk • Drummer/Vocalist • Creative Innovator

Cindy Blackman Santana is a genre-defying, powerhouse drummer whose artistry spans jazz, rock, and funk. From touring with Lenny Kravitz and Santana to leading her own acclaimed bands, she’s a true innovator and one of the most dynamic drummers of her generation.

THE LAST WALTZ CELEBRATION FEAT. THE THE BAND BAND & SPECIAL GUESTS

NOV 14 • 7:30PM

Tribute Band • Timeless Rock • Legendary Music

Experience the magic of The Band through the ultimate tribute act bringing their legendary catalog to life. With authentic, soulful renditions of classics like “The Weight” and “Up on Cripple Creek,” as well as deep cuts from iconic albums like Music From Big Pink, they capture the sound, spirit, and energy that made The Band a cornerstone of Americana music.

THE HOT SARDINES

NOV 16 • 7:30PM

Jazz • Critically acclaimed • Re-invented classics

The Hot Sardines are the critically acclaimed jazz collective making old sounds new again with brassy horns, rollicking piano, and magnetic vocals. With sold-out shows and chart-topping albums, they deliver a joyful, high-energy celebration of classic jazz for music lovers of all ages.

LADIES OF LAUGHTER

NOV 20 • 7:30PM

Comedy • Ladies Night • Rising Stars

The acclaimed comedy competition and tour that’s launched stars like Amy Schumer and Melissa Rauch. The Funny & Fabulous Tour features top winners and rising stand-up talents, delivering a fresh, hilarious lineup of women who are redefining comedy across America.This performance features Liz Glazer, Marion Grodin, Carie Karavas, and Luz Michelle.

JOHN SCOFIELD TRIO

NOV 21 • 7:30PM

Jazz • Grammy-Winner • Fearless Improvisation

The John Scofield Trio, featuring Scofield (guitar), Bill Stewart (drums), and Vicente Archer (bass), delivers sophisticated, high-energy jazz brimming with personal expression, daring improvisation, and a powerful, intuitive group synergy. Their live shows are a thrilling, ever-evolving showcase for some of the finest musicianship in modern jazz.

GIANTS OF JAZZ

NOV 29 • 7:30PM

Jazz • Grammy-Winners • Beloved Annual Event Giants of Jazz offers unforgettable nights of all-star performances, curated by Grammy winner John Lee and featuring some of jazz’s most celebrated legends. Experience the magic, swing, and spontaneity as South Orange hosts the ultimate gathering of jazz masters.

DIRTY DEEDS - THE AC/DC EXPERIENCE

DEC 6 • 7:30PM

Tribute Band • Classic Rock • Explosive Performance

Get ready for an explosive performance with the ultimate AC/DC tribute band. This electrifying experience channels the iconic guitar riffs and stage moves of Angus and Malcolm Young, creating an immersive and authentic show. Join them for a sonic and visual adventure that will transport you back to the glory days of rock ‘n’ roll and leave you screaming for more.

SO JEWISH COMEDY NIGHT

DEC 14 • 7:30PM

Comedy • Holiday • Fun

Get ready for a rollicking, irreverent celebration of the season with SO Jewish Comedy Night. Bringing together some of the sharpest comedic minds in the country, this uproarious evening promises unfiltered laughter, relatable stories, and plenty of chutzpah. It’s a hilarious holiday celebration showcasing top Jewish comedians Liz Glazer, Myq Kaplan, Elon Altman, and Stone & Stone.

IRISH CHRSTIMAS IN AMERICA

DEC 18 • 7:30PM

Irish Music • Christmas Spirit • Family Friendly

A joyful holiday tradition, produced by renowned Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, that brings together some of Ireland’s finest musicians and dancers for an engaging, family-friendly celebration. Praised for its humor, energy, and integrity, Irish Christmas in America is a must-see event that captures the magic of the season and the warmth of Irish culture.

AN EVENING WITH STORM LARGE

DEC 19 • 7:30PM

America’s Got Talent • American Songbook • Genre-Bending Storm Large is a genre-bending vocalist, writer, and performer whose electrifying stage presence and fearless storytelling have wowed audiences from Rock Star: Supernova to Carnegie Hall. With a voice that soars from rock to cabaret to symphony halls, Storm’s live show is a wild, unforgettable ride through the heart of the American Songbook and beyond.

SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER

DEC 20 • 7:30PM

Alt-Rock • Grammy-Nominated • Kiss Me Sixpence None the Richer returns with their first tour in nearly two decades, featuring beloved hits like the tripleplatinum “Kiss Me” alongside fresh material. With Leigh Nash’s iconic vocals and Matt Slocum’s masterful guitar work, this Grammy-nominated band delivers both nostalgia and innovation in every performance.

JOHN PIZZARELLI

DEC 21 • 7:30PM

Great American Songbook • Singer/Guitarist • Grammy Winner John Pizzarelli is the Grammy-winning guitarist and vocalist renowned for his fresh, swinging takes on jazz standards, Broadway hits, and pop classics. With a dynamic trio and a repertoire spanning Sinatra to the Beatles, Pizzarelli’s live show is pure musical delight for fans of all ages.

SEASON

Jazz Bundle

CHOOSE TWO out of these four events for $70!*

• Stephane Wrembel Quartet 9/12

• Cindy Blackman Santana Group 10/18

• The Hot Sardines 11/16

• John Scofield Trio

• John Pizzarelli 12/21

Comedy Bundle

CHOOSE TWO out of these four events for $70!*

• David Koechner 9/14

• The Improvised Shakespeare Company 9/21

• Ladies of Laughter

• SO Jewish Comedy Night 12/14

SEASON 20

KIDS + FAMILY PERFORMANCES SHOWS IN THE LOFT

HEALING SOUNDS IN THE LOFT

OCT 12 • 5 & 7PM

MAR 29 • 5 & 7PM

Healing Sounds In The Loft is a 75-minute, guided Reiki Energy Crystal Sound Bath at SOPAC, offering a deeply immersive experience in sound healing, relaxation, and energetic renewal. Lie back, get comfortable, and let the therapeutic vibrations invite you into peace and balance.

CABARET IN THE LOFT

NOV 23 • 7PM JAN 18 • 7PM

MAR 8 • 7PM

JUN 14 • 7PM

Get ready for an evening of glamor, intimacy, and true Broadway spirit with Cabaret in the Loft—the SOPAC series quickly winning hearts as a 54 Below-like sensation west of the Hudson. This is cabaret reimagined for local audiences, curated by Matthew Luminello and fueled by the extraordinary talent of SOMA’s own Broadway pros.

JAZZ IN THE LOFT

JAN 11 • 7PM FEB 15 • 7PM

MAR 22 • 7PM

APR 12 • 7PM

Jazz in the Loft is SOPAC’s premier jazz series, curated by Grammy-winning producer John Lee and showcasing some of today’s most exciting and innovative artists. Experience world-class jazz in an intimate setting.

PANTO’S THE LITTLE MERMAID

NOV 22 • 1PM

Panto’s The Little Mermaid is a glittering, laugh-packed musical adventure featuring stunning sets, vibrant costumes, original songs, and loads of audience participation. It’s an ideal under-thesea theatre experience for kids and families alike.

TIRED SOULS: KING AND THE MONTGOMERY BUS BOYCOTT

JAN 15 • 7PM

Tired Souls opens in Montgomery, Alabama on December 1, 1955 – the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man. Her determination was the catalyst that inspired Montgomery’s black citizens to abandon travel on city buses until they were no longer forced to sit in the back or stand when a white person boarded. Followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring Award Winning playwright and author, Mike Wiley and special guests. The discussion will explore the legacy of civil disobedience, youth activism, and more.

GET HYPNOTIZED! THE ERICK KÄND COMEDY HYPNOSIS SHOW

FEB 13 • 7PM Recommended Ages: 12+ Laugh, participate, and experience an altered state of reality at Get Hypnotized! – The Erick Kand Comedy Hypnosis Show. Selfselecting audience volunteers will be hypnotized and become the stars of the show! During this performance, the lucky volunteers will undergo a complete transformation. The pandemonium is all great fun and will have the audience laughing non-stop from start to finish!

Loft MultiBuy

Choose Your Own Loft Experience at SOPAC!

Experience the best of SOPAC’s iconic LOFT events with our new subscription series! Whether you love comedy, jazz, or healing sounds, there’s something for everyone. Choose from Laughs in the Loft, Jazz in the Loft, and Healing Sounds in the Loft, and enjoy exclusive discounts by selecting multiple events.

SUBSCRIPTION LEVELS

3 Events: Save 15%

5 Events: Save 20%

OPT-IN NOW and immerse yourself in the vibrant offerings of the SOPAC LOFT.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

MAR 14 • 1PM

When Alice chases the White Rabbit down a hole, she enters a whimsical world filled with characters like the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, Caterpillar, and Queen of Hearts. This musical adaptation sets the whole family on an adventure that celebrates the wonder of imagination.

BECOME A FAMILY-LEVEL MEMBER OR HIGHER AND SAVE! ($100+) for 2 FREE companion tickets + more great benefits! Get all the Membership details at sopacnow.org/membership

The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC features a diverse selection of artists who bring contemporary art to a wider audience. The gallery was established by a beloved SOPAC Board Member, Milly Iris, a respected South Orange resident and arts advocate, and was inspired by her passion for art and young people.

Become a SOPAC member today!

on Every Ticket

Members save on every ticket purchased to SOPAC performances. Best Seats in the House

Join us for our 20th Anniversary season and explore a wide range of member benefits throughout the year.

Get 48-hour presale access before tickets are available to the general public. Access Starts at Just $65

SOPAC Membership is your all-access pass to art, savings, and community

Find your preferred level & benefits online at sopacnow.org/membership or call the Box Office at (973) 313-2787.

The gallery is situated on the second and third floors of SOPAC and holds 4-5 art exhibits annually. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Friday, 12-6PM and two hours prior to SOPAC performances.

We have two modern facilities available:

Volunteer With Us!

Our volunteer program offers a variety of opportunities including office work, ushering or contributing your professional expertise. Volunteers enjoy many perks, including appreciation events throughout the year, and contribute to SOPAC’s success!

Learn more and sign up at SOPACnow.org/Volunteer

arts education ENRICHING LIVES

SOPAC empowers over 9,000 students across more than half of Essex County’s schools through visual arts, dance, and music programming.

Aiming to instill a passion for the arts, SOPAC champions arts education as a transformative force in the lives of students. Programs include:

SCHOOL PERFORMANCE SERIES

Live performances reinforce and enhance classroom learning, spark creativity, and cultivate a lasting passion for the arts.

RESIDENCY PROGRAMS

Arts residencies in Jazz and Alvin Ailey’s AileyDance Kids are tailored to each school to support district staff and provide unique opportunities for students to collaborate with and learn from professional artists.

VISUAL ARTS PROGRAM

The INSPIRED MINDS: Young Artist Exhibition, presented in The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery, provides Essex County high school students with a professional experience, from the application and adjudication process to the exhibition and potential sale of their art. For more information, visit: SOPACnow.org/education

$1,000

Professional crew and technical equipment for one complete performance

From membership to major gifts, the generosity of donors powers SOPAC’s mission. SOPAC is turning 20 and we’re just getting started. Your tax-deductible contribution ensures that we continue to grow as a beacon of creativity and access on stage, in the schools, and throughout South Orange, Maplewood, and beyond.

Your support creates transformative experiences for our community. Here are some examples of what donations can support: