Bell Theater, brand-new Shore venue, opening at Bell Works in Holmdel; here's the lineup
HOLMDEL - Whether you're looking for a Broadway musical, a rock concert, jazz, films or family entertainment, there's a brand-new venue at the Shore that promises it all — and more.
The Bell Theater, housed at the Bell Works complex in Holmdel, is set to open in May.
The new theater is a collaboration between Axelrod Performing Arts Center and Bell Works. Axelrod has presented outdoor concerts at Bell Works since 2021.
"Our vision is to become a leading cultural institution that celebrates diversity, creativity and excellence in the performing arts," according to the theater's website.
The theater hopes to create a platform for emerging artists while also showcasing established acts.
“Thanks to the support of Ralph Zucker (Inspired by Somerset Development) and Paola Zamudio (npz studio+) as well as Sheldon Vogel and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, we are thrilled to be opening Bell Theater in May with the debut of an exciting new musical followed by four amazing concerts for our grand opening," Executive Artistic Director Andrew DePrisco said in a news release.
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“The reincarnation of the historic Bell Labs into Bell Works is one of my proudest achievements,” Zucker said. “As Bell Works continues to shine as one of New Jersey’s most unique destinations, we look forward to this most exciting stage: the opening of the new Bell Theater.”
Bell Theater
The new theater says it aims to be diverse, immersive and accessible.
It is equipped with "the latest technology" and offers amenities including a cafe and a bar.
"We believe in the transformative power of the arts and are committed to making it accessible to all," the theater's founders said.
Bell Theater productions
Bell Theater opens with a new rock musical, "East Carson Street," which runs from May 3 to 12 and stars Constantine Maroulis ("Rock of Ages") and Teal Wicks ("The Cher Show," "Wicked"). It features music by Pittsburgh rocker Joe Grushecky, a frequent collaborator of Bruce Springsteen, who co-wrote two of the show’s songs.
A grand opening weekend kicks off on Thursday, May 16.
The weekend kicks off with “Let’s Go to Rio!” starring Brazilian singer Alexia Bomtempo; jazz pianist Dr. Art Topilow; and vocalist/saxophonist Danny Bacher on Thursday, May 16.
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Broadway star LaChanze ("The Color Purple," "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical") will perform a new show on Saturday, May 17, consisting of Broadway, pop and standards, along with her trio.
On Saturday, May 18, Michael Cavanaugh, star of Broadway’s "Movin’ Out," will perform songs of Billy Joel and Elton John with his quartet.
The Weeklings debut BeatlesBash, complete with The Horn and Strings Orchestra, on Sunday, May 19.
Organizers say future events at the theater include: "Million Dollar Quartet," directed by original Broadway cast member Hunter Foster in July; monthly standup comedy nights; a Broadway series featuring SiriusXM Host Seth Rudetsky and special guests; concert performances by Andrea McArdle, Lorna Luft, John Lloyd Young and Christine Andreas, jazz and rock groups and family entertainment.
For more information, visit BellTheater.org or call the box office at 732-531-9106, ext. 14. Bell Theater is located at 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Bell Theater opening at Bell Works in Holmdel for musicals, concerts
