Just because we’re homebound doesn’t mean we’ll be that way forever, and post-quarantine planning is that much-needed diversion we all can use right now. As such, New Jersey Performing Arts Center is thinking ahead for July and August with a jam-packed line-up of family-friendly fun, date nights, and summer programs for preteens and teens. Watch YouTube kid-favorite Blippi jump off the screen and onto the stage at Blippi The Musical, laugh your socks off with comedy actor Kim Jeong or sway to the fun beats of One Night of Queen. Plus, if you’ve got kids ages 10-18, don’t forget to check out NJPAC’s special performing arts programs happening this summer.
Here are 5 must-see NJPAC shows this summer:
Blippi The Musical, July 18
Kids love Blippi, the YouTube fan-favorite who sings and dances to fun educational tunes in his trademark style. Now, he’s coming to NJPAC in a fun and family-friendly musical. Kids ages 2–7 will have the best time seeing the beanie-clad, bowtie wearing character (played by the creator, Stevin John) on stage singing, dancing and learning about planes, tractors, fire trucks, trains, and more.
Ken Jeong, July 24
Known for hilarious roles in movies like The Hangover, Knocked Up, Step Brothers, Pineapple Express and Crazy Rich Asians, Ken Jeong is bringing his laugh-your-socks-off humor to the NJPAC stage this summer for a comedy skit to follow up on his new Netflix special (You Complete Me, Ho). Bring your S.O. or your best girlfriend and get ready for an extra-special night of live comedy.
Chick Corea & The Spanish Heart Quartet with Rubén Blades, August 7
Take a trip to Spain with keyboardist, composer and bandleader, Chick Corea and his Spanish Heart Quartet of Latin rhythm masters, for a night of the flamenco-charged musical fun. With 23 GRAMMY® wins and multiple Latin GRAMMY® Awards, Chick has also performed with legends like Miles Davis. The night includes Cuban sensation, Carlitos Del Puerto on bass, master of all rhythms Marcus Gilmore on drums, and timbalero Luisito Quintero on percussion, joined by guest vocalist Rubé Blades—with so much talent, it’s sure to be a night of Latin Jazz brilliance.
One Night of Queen Performed By Gary Mullen & The Works, August 16
Calling all Queen fans— get ready to rock out! This spectacular throwback performance is recreating the sounds of Queen in concert, and bringing you classic hits like Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Under Pressure, and so much more. Starring the Gary Mullen as Freddie Mercury, David Brockett on guitar, John Halliwell on drums, Malcolm Gentles on keyboards, and Billy Moffat on bass, this will be one night you’ll never forget.
Summer Performing Arts Programs
If you’ve got a preteen to teen who loves performing, this is for them: Each summer, NJPAC offers transformative creative experiences for kids and teens that prepares them to soar to the next level. From beginner workshops to pre-professional intensives, your kids can experience it all, including programs like Geri Allan Jazz Camp, Hip Hop Intensive and the Young Artist Summer Intensive. Check out the varied summer programs here.
