Watchung Arts Center

NEW CLASSES BEING OFFERED AT THE WATCHUNG ARTS CENTER REGISTER NOW

2012-02-09T13:03:00.000-08:00

NEW! Taming the Monkey Mind —
Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation

Forgot How to Relax? Mindfulness Meditation is a 2,500 year old Buddhist practice that is increasingly relevant for the crazy and stressful time in which we live. Visiting instructor and life coach, Kerry Alan Rasp, will offer basic instructions in mindfulness meditation, lead a guided meditation, share simple techniques to calm the monkey mind, and allow time for discussion. More information on our Classes page.

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The Watchung Art Center is pleased to announce registration has begun for

OPEN STUDIO FOR LIFE PAINTING AND DRAWING

LONG POSE FIGURE SESSIONS with facilitator Artists Maryann Ficker

Class size is small and taken on a first come first serve basis download the registration form and sign up now. Classes begin on Tuesday, February 28 and will feature one model maintaining the same pose for all four sessions. This provides artists enough time to complete a figure painting or detailed drawing. Open to all artists and is non-instructional.

NEW! Artistry of Dance

Dancesport champions Sergei and Olga Bezrodnov will lead a number of classes in various styles of Ballroom and Latin dances for children and adults. Find out all about it on our Dance Page.

Yoga

The physical body…is not something separate from our mind and soul. (BKS IYENGAR)

Winter 2012

General: 14 weeks, Monday, January 9 through Saturday, April 14.

Level I	Mondays	6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
Intro/Level I	Mondays	7:30 – 8:45 p.m.
Embodied Anatomy & Yoga (Susan)	Tuesdays	9:45 - 11:00 a.m.
Level I/II	Tuesdays	6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
Level III	Tuesdays	7:30 – 8:45 p.m.
Level II	Fridays	8:15 – 9:30 a.m.
Gentle/Intro	Fridays	10:00 – 11:15 a.m.
All Levels	Saturdays	8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Fee: $175 for one series, any 11 classes out of 14; $330 for 2 series; additional class of same series: $12, Watchung Arts Center member discount: $5

Special:

Restorative

Thursdays

6:00 – 7:15 p.m.

Fee: $95 for 6 classes: January 19; February 9 and 23; March 8 and 22; April 12.

For registration and information, contact Renata at 908-754-8433 or yoreca@aol.com. Please make checks payable to the Watchung Arts Center. Download theflyer and registration form.

Children’s Art Enrichment Program

The 2011-2012 Children’s Art Enrichment Program features a Painting Enrichment Workshop and a Drawing Enrichment Workshop. Each cycle introduces new techniques and works to young artists.

Spring Class Schedule

Drawing Enrichment Workshop
TUESDAYS from 4:30 — 6:00 p.m. (8 weeks)
April 17, 24; May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; June 5

Painting Enrichment Workshop
THURSDAYS from 4:30 — 6:00 p.m. (8 weeks)
April 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Fees: $105.00 plus $15 supplies fee, $120 total
(members: $100 plus $15 supplies fee, $115 total)

Download the registration form.

The Artistry of Dance and Taming the Monkey Mind Open for Registration

2012-02-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

NEW! Artistry of Dance
Dancesport champions Sergei and Olga Bezrodnov will lead a number of classes in various styles of Ballroom and Latin dances for children and adults.

Register today classes have just begun. Advanced registration by phone or email for Walk-Ins must be received prior to class.

Read more about our Artistry of Dance program on our DancePage.

NEW! Taming the Monkey Mind —
Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation

Forgot How to Relax? Mindfulness Meditation is a 2,500 year old Buddhist practice that is increasingly relevant for the crazy and stressful time in which we live. Visiting instructor and life coach, Kerry Alan Rasp, will offer basic instructions in mindfulness meditation, lead a guided meditation, share simple techniques to calm the monkey mind, and allow time for discussion. More information on our Classes page.

THIS WEEKEND AT WAC...JAZZ AND CLASSICALS AMONG THE ARTS

2012-01-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

2012 NJ IDOL COMPETITION NOW ACCEPTING ENTRIES

2011-12-17T13:56:00.000-08:00

JaZZ in the Gallery Season 2012 Line-Up

2011-12-17T13:54:00.000-08:00

FAMILY WEEKEND AND HOLIDAY GALAS AT WAC!

2011-12-06T20:43:00.000-08:00

OCTOBER 2011 EVENTS AT WAC SPECIAL EVENT - NJ IDOL

2011-09-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

THE WATCHUNG ARTS CENTER IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE OCTOBER 2011 LINE-UP INCLUDING A SPECIAL EVENT - 2011 VOCAL COMPETITION the

see below for details

Coming soon is the exhibition of UNIQUE VISION WORKSHOP and ROSS WAGNER

Please visit the website for details.

SEASON OPENS!

2011-08-18T04:47:00.000-07:00

SUPER SAVINGS ON CHILDREN'S SUMMER ART CAMP

2011-07-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

Click Here to Download Printable Registration Form

JUNE PERFORMANCES AT WAC!

2011-06-07T05:38:00.000-07:00

WISHING PATRONS AND MEMBERS A HAPPY HOLIDAY WEEKEND...

2011-05-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

POWERFUL WOMEN OF SONG SERIES FINALE

2011-05-03T05:58:00.000-07:00

SUMMER CAMPS FOR STUDENTS

2011-05-03T05:49:00.000-07:00

SURROUND YOURSELF IN COLOR!

2011-04-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

April 2011 Full Listing of Events at the Center

2011-03-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY, MARCH 25 at 8 p.m. - MARTY EIGEN'S BEACON HILL JAZZ BAND

2011-03-21T15:18:00.000-07:00

SATURDAY, MARCH 26 at 8 p.m. - MARK CONKLIN AND FRIENDS

2011-03-21T15:17:00.000-07:00

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT THIS WEEKEND AT THE CENTER!

2011-03-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

DON'T MISS AN OPPORTUNITY TO WELCOME SPRING WITH LAUGHTER AND SONG~

FOR MORE DETAILS OR TO ORDER TICKETS ONLINE
VISIT http://watchungarts.org/

JOURNEY TO INDIA THROUGH SONG!

2011-03-08T11:25:00.000-08:00

GOSPEL NIGHT AT WAC...

2011-02-16T05:48:00.000-08:00

GOSPEL NIGHT AT THE CENTER

Featuring TROY BRIGHT of the Kurt Carr Singers

Saturday, February 19, 8 p.m
Tickets: $18, $16 members, and $8 students

Come experience a night of inspiration with gospel vocalist Troy Bright of the Kurt Carr singers, accompanied by his six-member choir and four-piece band.

Troy Bright is a New Jersey native by way of Chicago, Illinois. For many years, he served as Minister of Music at Faith Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, where his father was the Pastor and founder. Since then, Troy has operated as musical director for many music ministries and groups. Troy is a member of the epic ensemble, the Kurt Carr Singers, and is a featured soloist on Kurt Carr’s most recent CDs, “Awesome Wonder,” “One Church” and “Just the Beginning.” His talent has afforded him the opportunity to sing for and record with other music greats, including Donnie McKlurkin, Donald Lawrence, Karen Clark Sheard, Tramaine Hawkins, Bishop Paul Morton, Marvin Sapp, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, Celine Dion and Kenny Lattimore.

Link to my website

The Center which has been presenting a wide-variety of art exhibitions, classes and performances is open to members and the general public. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or by check (made payable to Watchung Arts Center) and mailed to the Center with your name and number of tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at the door by check or cash however seating is limited.

Come in out of the cold...

2011-02-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

COME IN OUT OF THE COLD...attend a show or visit the galleries and warm your soul with the arts!

The Nields

Saturday, February 5, 2011 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $18 online, $23 at the door

Nerissa and Katryna Nields have been the darlings of the coffeehouse/festival scene since 1991, with tunes ranging from off-the-hook idiosyncratic to kicking to heartbreaking. “Our parents were total folkies,” says Nerissa. “Their first date was a Pete Seeger concert and their second was a Harry Bellefonte...We grew up on simple folk songs.”

The rhythm section from the Nields’ former eponymous five-piece band remains the same, with Dave Chalfant on bass and Dave Hower on drums. Now, the hot electric guitar leads and the folk-rock attitude are replaced with banjos, accordions, mandolins and a more refined sensibility. Beautiful voices weaving through muse inspired songs will leave the audience feeling like a kid at the campfire — young, easy, and trouble-free.

The Studio

Hidden Worlds

Upper Gallery

Wednesday, February 2 - Saturday, February 26

Opening Reception:

Sunday, February 6 from 1 - 4 p.m.

The Studio Group from Montclair consists of eight serious artists working in all different media — painting, printmaking, fiber, collage, sculpture, ceramic, encaustic, and photography. The exhibition features the works of artists Susanna Baker, Rachel Leibman, Yvette Lucas, Keely McCool, Rayna Gillman, Susan Lisbin, Leona Mahler-Sussman, and Lisa G. Westheimer.

In Hidden Worlds, we explore ideas of obscuring and revealing, through abstract, metaphorical and literal works, “other” worlds are perceived through the individual visions of the artists in our group.

Mare Vacaro

Reflected Body: A Solo Exhibition of Works

Wednesday, February 2 - Saturday, February 26

Opening Reception:

Sunday, February 6 from 1 - 4 p.m.

Waiting for Oliver 2_MareReflect is defined as giving back or exhibiting as an image, likeness or outline. This exhibition creates a dialogue between the images that reflect the standards of femininity as they relate to societal expectations and seeks to question whether beauty can be redefined currently.

Mare Vaccaro photographs herself in domestic settings that depict beauty and adornments from past eras. Her work asks the viewer to reflect on the standards of femininity, the societal definition of beauty and the art of masking as a means of questioning what is real and what is not.

Upcoming February Events

* Sunday, February 13 at 3 p.m. - Classicals-at-the-Circle:Min Kwon and Friends

* Saturday, February 19 at 8 p.m. - A Night of Gospel with Troy Bright of the Kurt Carr Singers

* Sunday, February 27 at 3 p.m. - Paul Nagle's Regency Ragtimers

Check out our website www.watchungarts.org for more information, to purchase tickets online, or become a member! Support the Center and keep the arts alive!

The Watchung Arts Center
18 Stirling Road
Watchung, New Jersey 07069
US

2010-12-27T14:49:00.000-08:00

To the Patrons and Members of the Arts Center,

May you have a Healthy and Happy Holiday Season!

Warmest wishes for a wonderful New Year,

The Staff and Board of Trustees of WAC

JANUARY BRINGS TWO EXCITING PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITIONS

Upper Gallery – Heinz Otto – “My Creative Images”

Heinz W. Otto is a self-taught Creative Photographer who has gained International recognition because of his unique process of Experimental, Manipulation in printing his pictures. He has been using a camera since he was 16 years old. Heinz has been exhibiting since 1975 and has had exhibitions at Lever House in NYC, The Eastman House in Rochester, NY, Taipei, Taiwan, Manila in the Philippines, Austria and Germany, and an 8 month Kodak exhibit in Disneyland, CA. He has had pictures published in Austria, Belgium, Germany, and in the industrial publication Iron Works.

Heinz has entered International Exhibitions and accumulated acceptances and honors worldwide. For many years his standing was Third in North America, and Seventh Worldwide. In the star rating system of Photographic Society of America in monochrome prints, he is the only photographer to achieve the level of Sapphire star, which is 1600 acceptances.

Although he has retired from active exhibiting at the age of 90, he is still currently taking pictures and working in his darkroom.

The Watchung Arts Center is proud to present a retrospective of Mr. Otto’s extensive body of work. Heinz Otto has served for many years as a dynamic force on the Board of Trustees of WAC, including serving as President, and continues to be a strong advocate for the arts.

Lower Gallery – Joe Guerriero- “CUBA: Streets, Struggle, and Spirits (“Calles, Lucha, y Espíritu”)”

A country that is as complex in culture, history, and politics as Cuba seems to beg an outsider to view it in a way that attempts to make sense. A well-known Cuban ex-patriot once told me, “You will never understand the Cuban people.” My response is, “How I see it is how I understand it.”

In my many visits to Cuba, I have photographed what I perceive to be three domains of life there:

The streets: life played out in music, camaraderie, and the sounds of neighbor calling to neighbor; dark allies at night and playful squeals in the day. The peeling paint on the buildings seems to form a lively backdrop to the gestures of athletic movement.

The struggle: sculpted onto the faces of a strong and patient people whose use of the word “lucha” (struggle) is heard to my outsider’s ears more frequently than even they seem to realize.

The spirit: found in the religion of Santeria, which is the calm eye of the storm that is the struggle itself. Music abounds in this spirit with a blessed beat.

It is easy to see how these three domains are interrelated. It is evident in the very co-existence of the Cubanos themselves as neighbors and as compañeros. Time has made Cuba what it is today, as it has been for 48 years: a beguiling and continuing mystery for Americans and other foreigners. I was told by another who herself has been drawn back again and again to the island, “People find their own Cuba,” and this work is a testament to that truth. No doubt the coming years will bring significant change to Cuba. But whatever happens, the country’s essence, however tempered by change and commercialization, will, as always, be danced passionately in the streets.

Sunday, January 9, 1 - 4 p.m., free of charge

Artist Reception – Upper and Lower Gallery

Please remember that while the facility is on break the Center is accepting enrollment in all adult and youth art and dance workshops and classes. In addition, the Summer Art Camp for Children has opened for registration and all tickets to upcoming performances can be puchased online or by check mailed to the Center.

ENTER NOW DEADLINES EXTENDED FOR ART EXHIBITIONS AT WAC!

2010-11-19T10:41:00.000-08:00

ARTISTS RECEPTION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 FROM 1 - 4 PM

2010-11-02T11:09:00.000-07:00

ART EXHIBITIONS WILL RUN THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER

Wednesday, November 3 – Saturday, November 27

Lower Gallery – Lorraine Glessner– "Rows"

The ‘Rows’ series focuses specifically on the marks of walls of in the urban environment. Walls, and what we choose to display on them, whether interior or exterior, have always played a critical role in shaping the identities of the inhabitants of which they embrace. Most cities don’t eliminate, they only get bigger as they build upon and incorporate existing infrastructure. When a row home has been demolished, one can still see the outlines of staircases and rooms along the existing walls between which it once stood. Traces of the lives lived there are reflected in the wallpaper, paint, mirrors and marks of life still left on those walls. Death is just as clearly evidenced through other marked walls by way of sidewalk memorials and written messages to those who have died there. Decorative patterns, marks and messages traced from these walls are combined with found papers and materials through the use of layers of encaustic paint. Through a continuous process of accrual and removal, concealment and exposure, life, death, hope and the determination for renewal is revealed.

Upper Gallery – New Jersey Photography Forum - “ 16th Annual Juried Exhibition”

The New Jersey Photography Forum will be holding its 16th annual juried exhibit at the Watchung Arts Center The opening reception will feature the recognition of awards to individual arttists including Awards of Excellence and Merit. Admission is free, open to the public and offers an opportunity to meet many of the fine art photographers whose work will be on display. Approximately 50 photographs will be selected from the membership of the New Jersey Photography Forum and public submissions by three judges.
The jurors are: Stephen McKenzie: Manager, Newark Museum Arts Workshop; MFA, Rutgers University; Mason; Mason Gross School of the Arts, Inventor of Mega-Print printing process. Ken Hubbard: Advertising, training for new products and technology, and Trade Show Supervisor for Tamron USA, Inc.; portrait and fine art photographer. Ellen Denuto: Professional photographer in Portraiture, Fashion and Products and exhibiting fine artist.

The exhibit will be curated by Nancy Ori of Berkeley Heights, who is the founder of the New Jersey Photography Forum with assistance by Ann Merten from Bridgewater. These annual exhibits contain a variety of photographic processes representing the current breadth of expertise in New Jersey fine art photography. Many historic processes will be shown along with the best in digital photography.

The New Jersey Photography Forum is dedicated to furthering the interests of professional and serious photographers. The group is now in its 16th year of development and has become the largest and most recognized group of fine art photographers in New Jersey. The monthly meetings at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey in Summit, NJ encourage attendees to share expertise and advance their skills. The meetings provide access to current creative and technical information for use with film and digital.
You can get information about entering the show and learn more about the New Jersey Photography Forum by visiting their web site at www.njphotoforum.com or by contacting Nancy Ori at nancyori@comcast.net.

ZOE MULFORD TO PERFORM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 at 8 PM AS PART OF THE POWERFUL WOMEN OF SONG SERIES AT WAC

2010-11-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

Zoë Mulford, an award-winning transatlantic singer-songwriter, guitarist and banjo picker, grew up near Philadelphia but has lived in Manchester, England for the past several years. She has been described as “a brilliant, highly original songwriter who delivers her music with warmth, sincerity and a bit of a twinkle” by Rich Warren, host of “Midnight Special” and “FolkStage” on Chicago’s WFMT-FM.

Mulford pens short story-like songs that are evocative, well-crafted and endlessly varied. Whether focusing on a doomed polar expedition, drivers on I-95, wayward ghosts, practitioners of love against the odds, or the contents of her own refrigerator, Mulford’s vivid storytelling, engaging stage presence and down-to-earth humor promise listeners an enjoyable evening. Her lyrics are “intelligent, thought-provoking, and so warm that they demand that you get to know this person better” says Bob Gramann, host of the Fredericksburg Songwriters Showcase in Virginia. Backing her clear voice with acoustic guitar or claw hammer banjo, Mulford intersperses her own songs with selections from the music that inspires them — American and British folk ballads, old-time banjo tunes, and the work of songwriters ranging from George Gershwin to Richard Thompson.

As Phil Shapiro, host of “Bound for Glory” on WVBR-FM in Ithaca, NY, puts it, “Zoe’s a fine and whimsical singer-songwriter, alternatively powerful and funny… You’ll find her to be just plain delightful.”

Tickets are $16 online at zoemulford.eventbrite.com, $21 at the door.

CALL TO ARTISTS OF ALL AGES THREE UPCOMING SHOWS

2010-10-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

The Watchung Arts Center has several opportunities for artists of all ages and abilities to exhibit at the Watchung Arts Center. Three upcoming shows will appeal to the youth of our communities, WAC members and artists of all mediums to exhibit on the walls of the Studio and Upper Gallery. The artist’s work will be viewed by many patrons that flow through the Center during programs and regular gallery hours. Check www.watchungarts .org for specific details for each call to artist.

December 2010: 19th Annual Children’s Juried Art Exhibition
The goal of this exhibition is to recognize budding talents, creative potential and to encourage artistic development in children by providing an opportunity for the display and appreciation of their work outside home and school. The WAC therefore hopes to encourage the support of instructors, schools, and parents in our communities to promote students’ participation in this exciting event. The Opening Reception will include an awards ceremony and will take place immediately preceding the Member’s Show reception. This exhibition will run concurrently with our Members Juried Art Show, which will allow family members the unique opportunity to exhibit at the same time!

December 2010: Annual WAC Members Juried Art Exhibition
During the month of December, current WAC members are invited to display their eclectic talents in the Upper Gallery. The first place winner of the exhibition will be awarded a solo show in the Lower Gallery. This exhibition will run concurrently with our Children’s Juried Art Exhibition, which will allow family members the unique opportunity to exhibit at the same time!

March 2011: India from my Window
This is an open call to artists to be part of the exhibition celebrating the heritage of India. The content of all artwork must reflect an aspect of India such as its people, traditions, religious images, its architecture, landscape, or your own interpretation of what defines Indian. Curator for this exhibition is WAC Board of Trustee Bindia Puri

The Watchung Arts Center’s Gallery hours are 12 - 3 PM, Wednesday - Friday, Thursday 12-5 PM, Saturday 1 – 4 PM, and Tuesday by appointment.

The Watchung Arts Center is a non-profit, multi-disciplinary arts facility that serves Watchung and the surrounding communities and the Tri-State Area. For more information visit our website at www.watchungarts.org or to place a reservation call 908-753-0190 or email at wacenter@optonline.net. The Watchung Arts Center is located at 18 Stirling Road, Watchung, NJ 07069.

Indian Classicals - A Shehnai-Vocals Evening

2010-10-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

A Shehnai-Vocals Evening

Featuring Pt. Shailesh Bhagwat, Shri Pranab Kumar Biswas, with Shri Anil Khare and Rohan Prabhudesai

Friday, October 29, 8 p.m.

Watchung Arts Center presents the extraordinary talents of Ustad Bismillah Khan’s favorite disciple, Pt. Shailesh Bhagwat on Shehnai and Shri Pranab Kumar Biswas’s vocals. Pt. Shailesh Bhagwat was under the tutelage of Ustad Bismillah Khan for 37 years and is now his best-known disciple. This is his first trip to the US, a long-awaited, rare opportunity to listen to the haunting tone of what may be the most revered musical instrument of India. Please visit www.shehnaai.com to learn more about the shehnai and Ustad Bismillah Khan.

Shri Pranab Kimar Biswas received his musical training from, among others, Shri Dilip Roy, Ustad Rashid Khan, Ustad Nissar Husain and Pt. Rajan Sajan Mishra. His voice has a rich, soulful quality with a commanding reach and range that spans three octaves, and exhibits a unique combination of sweetness and power. More information on this wonderful singer can be found at http://pranabkumar.co.in/.
Both the artists will be supported by Shri Anil Khare on tabla and Rohan Prabhudesai on harmonium, making this a rich, memorable evening showcasing two grand forms of Indian classical music, presented by artists of the highest order.

Tickets are $20 (members $18, students $8).

Beginning soon at the Watchung Arts Center – Newly Expanded Life Drawing Program!

2010-10-15T16:46:00.000-07:00

The Watchung Art Center is excited to announce the launch of its newly enhanced Life Drawing program offered by Artist and Instructor, Denise Karabinus Telang.
The Life Drawing Program will include Instruction in Life Drawing on Wednesdays from 7 – 9:30 pm and Open Studio in Life Drawing on Saturdays from 10 am – 12:30 pm. Each program will run for 10 sessions.

First to open will be the Wednesday night session. In this course, the fundamental skills to draw from the live model will be taught. Seeking to understand this complex form, students will be guided through a series of exercises that help them understand the underlying structures of the human form. Lessons in measurement, anatomy, line, shape and value will be presented.

Saturday’s session will allow artists of all abilities open studio time to draw from a life model. Walk-ins will be permitted for this session only.

To reserve your spot in the program please contact the Center at wacenter@otponline.net or 908-753-0190. Please include all contact information. Students age 15 – 17 must have a signed parent permission slip accompany their registration. No photography will be permitted.

Denise Karabinus Telang will be instructing the Wednesday evening class. She brings an exciting combination of professional experience and expertise. She studied at The Barnstone Studios ~ Academy of Drawing and Design, Maine College of Art and Vermont College of Fine Arts. As an Admissions counselor she reviewed over 400 portfolios for admissions consideration at National Portfolio Days and has advised students in high schools all over the United States on Portfolio Preparation. Telang is an accomplished artist in her own right and uses drawing as a primary means of communication in her professional studio practice. She has taught at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Portland Museum of Art, Institute of Contemporary Art and the Printmaking Center of New Jersey.

2010-10-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

Stage Performance

Jennifer DiOrio’s Offsides

Friday, October 22, 8 p.m.
Saturday, October 23, 8 p.m.
Sunday, October 24, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Offsides, written by emerging playwright/screenwriter Jennifer DiOrio and directed by NY-based writer/actor/director Alberto Bonilla, is a coming-of-age melodrama set in suburban NJ in 1990. The play reached the quarterfinals of the 2009 Cynosure Screenwriting Awards Competition (see www.broadmindent.com/id26.html).

Offsides is a multi-generational story that centers on Marissa DiGiacomo, a top student and star soccer player who is at a crossroads. She will lose it all if she makes the wrong decision. Her father, a role model for her on the field, has made a series of bad decisions in his own life. One of these decisions could change everything.

The story came to Ms. DiOrio in a dream in 1996. Immediately, she wrote a journal entry about it and planned to write a screenplay, but life took over and she wasn’t able to write the complete script until 2008. Eventually, several local theater directors read the script and suggested that Ms. DiOrio adapt it for the stage. And that’s what she did. This stage adaptation has something for everyone: drama, humor, uplifting moments, and romance.

Tickets are $15.

SATURDAY NIGHT JAZZ WITH BEACON HILL

2010-10-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

THE BEACON HILL JAZZ BAND on Saturday, October 16, 8 p.m.

Marty Eigen’s Beacon Hill Jazz Band will open its sixth season at the Art Center featuring its new guitarist, the fabulous Flip Peters. Any of you who have attended one of the group’s concerts in the past, know that you are in for a treat. Those who have never been to a Beacon Hill Jazz concert have been missing an entertainment extravaganza. If you are a music lover, come and enjoy!

The band always provides a great evening of entertainment with exciting new music; as well as your favorites from past concerts. The band includes The Beacon Hill Vocal Trio with lead singer Nancy Nelson and piano great, Fred Fischer. All the rest of the dynamic crew will be there to entertain your socks off! After the concert you are welcome to mingle with the performers at the always lively “Meet-the-Musicians” Reception, hosted by WAC’s Claus Cardinal.

Tickets are $18 ($15 for WAC members, $8 for students). Concert is a wonderful night for the family. This band appeals to all ages.

Upcoming Performances

2010-10-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday, Oct. 2, Tracy Grammer “Powerful Women of Song”
Saturday, Oct. 9, The Improvables Family Improv
Sunday, Oct. 10, Kathleen Supové: The Exploding Piano Classicals at the Circle
Saturday, Oct. 16,, Beacon Hill Jazz Band Jazz
Friday, Oct. 22; Saturday, Oct. 23; Sunday, Oct. 24; Jennifer DiOrio’s Offsides Stage Performance
Friday, Oct. 29, A Shehnai-Vocals Evening Indian Classicals

Tickets for all performances, payable by personal check or cash, are available at the door 30 minutes prior to each event. For details, visit www.watchungarts.org/Performances.htm. Reservations may be made on our secure Ticket Reservation page or by calling the Watchung Arts Center at (908) 753-0190 or by e-mailing us at wacenter@optonline.net. Please include your name, phone number, the event and the number of seats desired.

INVITATION TO THE PUBLIC TO ATTEND UPCOMING JUNE ART EXHIBITION AT WAC

2010-05-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2010 SUMMER ART CAMP

2010-05-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

CALL TO ARTISTS AND ARTIST GROUPS FOR UPCOMING 2010 - 2011 SEASON AT WAC!

2010-05-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

RAGTIME THIS SUNDAY, May 23 at 3 p.m. at the Watchung Arts Center

2010-05-18T17:34:00.001-07:00

Classicals at the Circle presents Sophia Agranovich on Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 8 PM

2010-05-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

Exit Row Rocks WAC on Friday, May 21 at 8 PM

2010-05-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

Upcoming performances

2010-04-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 1 Lea “Powerful Women of Song”
Friday, May 7 ImpresaRIO, featuring Rio Clemente and Guests Jazz
Friday, May 14 Luminous Ragas: An Evening of Indian Classical Music Indian Classical
Friday, June 4 ImpresaRIO, featuring Rio Clemente and Guests Jazz
Rescheduled for Friday, June 11 Kristin Ace – “You CAN get there from here…” Benefit Stage Performance

Tickets for all performances, payable by personal check or cash, are available at the door 30 minutes prior to each event. Reservations may be made on our secure Ticket Reservation page at www.watchungarts.org, by calling the Watchung Arts Center at (908) 753-0190, or by e-mailing us at wacenter@optonline.net. Please include your name, phone number, the event, and the number of seats desired.

Upcoming Performances

2010-03-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Friday, March 12
Beacon Hill Jazz Band , Jazz
Saturday, March 13
The Improvables , Family Improv
Saturday, March 20
Stephen Fang with Judy Lin Wu and Ching-Lin Chen, “Classicals at the Circle”
Saturday, April 3
Carsie Blanton & Victoria Vox, “Powerful Women of Song”

Tickets for all performances, payable by personal check or cash, are available at the door 30 minutes prior to each event. Reservations may be made on our secure Ticket Reservation page at http://www.watchungarts.org/, by calling the Watchung Arts Center at (908) 753-0190, or by e-mailing us at wacenter@optonline.net. Please include your name, phone number, the event, and the number of seats desired.

BENEFIT STAGE PERFORMANCE AT WAC

2010-01-18T18:44:00.001-08:00

PURCHASE TICKETS NOW FOR THIS SPECTACULAR ONE WOMEN PERFORMANCE! ALL TICKETS PURCHASED FOR THE FEBRUARY SHOW WILL BE HONORED ON JUNE 11 at 8 PM

KRISTIN ACE in "You CAN get there from here..."

RESCHEDULED - FRIDAY, JUNE 11, AT 8 PM

A night for friends, family, or that special someone!

Kristin Ace was a professional actress since obtaining her BFA in college and a member of Actors Equity. After the birth of her first child she walked away from her acting career to be a stay at home mother. At that time, stories began circulating in her head and with the birth of her second child, and great encouragement from her husband, she wrote those stories down. Thus, began her new career as storyteller, a gift that she honed through the years of life's ups and downs. She performed her first one-woman storytelling show for several years in many different venues along the East Coast.

"You CAN get there from here..." is Ace's second one-woman storytelling show and she is delighted to present it at the Watchung Arts Center as a benefit.

You CAN get there from here...

"Look out, there are man-eating pygmies in those woods!" With a warning like that from her older brothers when she was five, it's no wonder Kristin Ace fears getting lost. Coupled with being directionally challenged, getting from here to there rarely follows a straight line. But then, as Kristin explains through her journey of one hilarious mishap after another, guidance comes from unlikely and unexpected sources. So that even when you are lost on a wooded mountain at night, with pygmies possibly lurking behind every tree, you will always be able to get here from here.

Tickets are $15. Call about our group rates for 15 or more...visit http://www.watchungarts.org/ or call 908-753-0190 for more information.

The Watchung Arts Center serves not only Watchung, Long Hill Township, Berkeley Heights, New Providence, Warren, Green Brook, North Plainfield but sister communities and beyond....."Keeping the Arts Alive in New Jersey!"

Idgy Vaughn takes the Stage for Powerful Women of Song Series

2010-01-18T18:37:00.001-08:00

IDGY VAUGHN AT WAC ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6 at 8 PM

Idgy Vaughn's life sounds like a Soap Opera, "stirring and unbelievable". A single mother, she was a truck stop waitress in Buda, Texas when she met a customer who had won the lottery; he loaned her the money to record her full-length debut, Origin Story.

Vaughn is a singer-songwriter who doesn't fit into one mold but manages to stack "folk," "country," and "rock" into a mountain of sound to showcase her sad songs laced with humor, her catchy, silly songs, and her gut-wrenching songs that pull at your heart - all delivered by a beautiful voice and a personality that will throw the audience off their guard and knock them flat.

Tickets are $18 online and $21 at the door. Follow the link at http://www.watchungarts.org/ to purchase them online or for more information.

The Watchung Arts Center Performing Arts Center (WAC PAC) BEGINS SECOND SESSION

2010-01-18T18:22:00.000-08:00

The Watchung Arts Center Performing Arts Company (WAC PAC) is accepting registration for students in grades 3 - 12. The Company will begin rehearsal on Sunday, January 24 at 6 - please check the schedule as times will alternate. The registration form and schedule may be found on at http://www.watchungarts.org/.

The second season of WAC PAC will take acting, dancing and performing to new heights as the cast performs the musical, "It's Saturday!" by Jacobson/Huff. The entire audience is sure to join in the celebration of a day off in the life of a kid. WAC PACers will continue to learn from the experience team of Director Laurie Wood, Watchung, and Musical Director Neal Acito of New Providence.

The performance will take place on March 21st and tickets for the performance will be $8.00 each.

There is potential for the Company to participate in community outreach performances to nursing homes, schools, and other facilities. Parents would be responsible for providing transportation to and from these performances.

THE BISHOP OF JAZZ RIO CLEMENTE IS BACK AT WAC!

2010-01-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

The Watchung Arts Center is pleased to welcome back The Bishop of Jazz - Rio Clemente this Friday, January 22 at 8:00 p.m.

Rio Clemente will perform in WAC's intimate Upper Gallery while inspiring passion and awe as he plays on the Center's new Boston Grand Piano.

Clemente, a master pianist, mixes a strong classical background with a knowledge of jazz history and then adds an amazing sense of creativity and interpretation.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for $16 at www.watchugnarts.org or with reservations can be purchased at the door for $20.

Don't miss this smorgasbord of jazz by the brilliant Clemente!

Watchung Arts Center

NEW CLASSES BEING OFFERED AT THE WATCHUNG ARTS CENTER REGISTER NOW

NEW! Taming the Monkey Mind —Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation

NEW! Artistry of Dance

Yoga

Children’s Art Enrichment Program

Spring Class Schedule

The Artistry of Dance and Taming the Monkey Mind Open for Registration

THIS WEEKEND AT WAC...JAZZ AND CLASSICALS AMONG THE ARTS

2012 NJ IDOL COMPETITION NOW ACCEPTING ENTRIES

JaZZ in the Gallery Season 2012 Line-Up

FAMILY WEEKEND AND HOLIDAY GALAS AT WAC!

OCTOBER 2011 EVENTS AT WAC SPECIAL EVENT - NJ IDOL

SEASON OPENS!

SUPER SAVINGS ON CHILDREN'S SUMMER ART CAMP

JUNE PERFORMANCES AT WAC!

WISHING PATRONS AND MEMBERS A HAPPY HOLIDAY WEEKEND...

POWERFUL WOMEN OF SONG SERIES FINALE

SUMMER CAMPS FOR STUDENTS

SURROUND YOURSELF IN COLOR!

April 2011 Full Listing of Events at the Center

FRIDAY, MARCH 25 at 8 p.m. - MARTY EIGEN'S BEACON HILL JAZZ BAND

SATURDAY, MARCH 26 at 8 p.m. - MARK CONKLIN AND FRIENDS

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT THIS WEEKEND AT THE CENTER!

JOURNEY TO INDIA THROUGH SONG!

GOSPEL NIGHT AT WAC...

GOSPEL NIGHT AT THE CENTER

Featuring TROY BRIGHT of the Kurt Carr Singers

Come in out of the cold...

ENTER NOW DEADLINES EXTENDED FOR ART EXHIBITIONS AT WAC!

ARTISTS RECEPTION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 FROM 1 - 4 PM

ZOE MULFORD TO PERFORM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 at 8 PM AS PART OF THE POWERFUL WOMEN OF SONG SERIES AT WAC

CALL TO ARTISTS OF ALL AGES THREE UPCOMING SHOWS

Indian Classicals - A Shehnai-Vocals Evening

Beginning soon at the Watchung Arts Center – Newly Expanded Life Drawing Program!

SATURDAY NIGHT JAZZ WITH BEACON HILL

Upcoming Performances

INVITATION TO THE PUBLIC TO ATTEND UPCOMING JUNE ART EXHIBITION AT WAC

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2010 SUMMER ART CAMP

CALL TO ARTISTS AND ARTIST GROUPS FOR UPCOMING 2010 - 2011 SEASON AT WAC!

RAGTIME THIS SUNDAY, May 23 at 3 p.m. at the Watchung Arts Center

Classicals at the Circle presents Sophia Agranovich on Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 8 PM

Exit Row Rocks WAC on Friday, May 21 at 8 PM

Upcoming performances

Upcoming Performances

BENEFIT STAGE PERFORMANCE AT WAC

Idgy Vaughn takes the Stage for Powerful Women of Song Series

The Watchung Arts Center Performing Arts Center (WAC PAC) BEGINS SECOND SESSION

THE BISHOP OF JAZZ RIO CLEMENTE IS BACK AT WAC!

NEW! Taming the Monkey Mind —
Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation