Hi everyone!

Love is in the air for theater in New Jersey, and good news, we are officially halfway to spring. I am definitely ready for warmer weather and fewer snow days. While the temperatures are slowly warming up, NJACT is heating up as we move closer to the 2026 Perry Awards. Scores are being averaged, shows are being reviewed, and special award nominations are already coming in. The NJACT Board has also been busy brainstorming new ideas and continuing important work for the organization.

With February being the month of love, it feels like the perfect time to recognize the people and theaters that make community theater so special. This is your reminder to start submitting nominations for the Stage Manager Award, the Perry Lifetime Achievement Award, Community Theater of the Year, and the David P Award. I have been asked a few times about the criteria for these awards. All of that information can be found on the Perry Awards tab on NJACT.org. Just select the award you are interested in nominating for, and you will find the full criteria listed there.

As we look ahead to warmer days, it is also a great time to enjoy the towns where your favorite theaters are located. This month, I want to highlight Phoenix Productions and its home base in Red Bank. Red Bank is a fun and walkable town filled with independent shops, antique stores, boutiques, and fantastic restaurants. If you are over 21 and enjoy checking out local breweries, Red Bank has two worth visiting: Red Tank, which I love for the name alone, and Triumph Brewing Company. As always, enjoy responsibly.

One of my favorite ways to plan a visit is by checking out the Downtown Red Bank website for ideas on what to see and do. I also have to give a special shoutout to YESTERcades, a classic arcade where you can play old-school games. The Simpsons is my favorite, and I will always be a kid at heart when I am there.

I hope everyone has a wonderful February. Take time for yourself, your family, and your friends. Most of all, get out and see some amazing theater across the state. You might be surprised by where some of New Jersey’s theaters are located.

With much love and appreciation,