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Tuesday, October 27, 2015

One of the Benefits of Living in Maplewood: 2nd Annual Broadway FurBall November 16th


Upcoming Fundraiser
One of the benefits of a community like Maplewood/South Orange is its proximity to NYC and that means that we have a lot of Broadway performers that will happily share their acting and singing with us. So, join us for the Second Annual Broadway FurBall, when Local Broadway Stars from such Broadway hits as Mamma Mia, Lion King, Wicked, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins, and many more sing classics about - or to - their pets!

StagedRight Homes is a lead sponsor for the 2nd Annual Broadway FurBall, a fundraiser for Furry Hearts Rescue. Join us November 16 at the Woodland in Maplewood for a cabaret evening.


Click Here to Order Tickets or Make a Donation


Donate!

Furry Hearts Rescue is critically low on funds and needs your support now, more than ever before. Our effort and commitment to TNVR in Maplewood continues to grow — as does our intake of rescues. From traps to vet care to food, our expenses are numerous. And without the help of our generous community and tireless volunteers, FHR cannot continue this important work. So please consider donating today. Thank you. And remember, all donations are tax deductible!


Wish List With just a click of a button you can help feed and care for our rescues and vetted ferals. Order from our online supply list and have the items shipped directly to Puppy Love, located at 1835 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood, NJ 07040.

Donate in Person:

Puppy Love All donations are being accepted at Puppy Love, located at 1835 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood, NJ, 07040. Cash or gift card donations are preferred, and we will happily provide a tax receipt upon request. Furry Hearts Rescue has taken in several cats, kittens, puppies and even a few dogs in the last month. We are also very busy trapping and vetting Maplewood Township’s feral cat colonies. All adoptable cats and kittens from these colonies are in search of forever homes. Besides the basic needs of our adoptable pets, there are also administration costs to running a rescue, so we thank you in advance for your donation.

Please see below for our list of needed items.


Items We Need

Do you have older linens or towels you do not need anymore? Furry Hearts Rescue is in need of dog and cat beds, blankets, linens and towels to keep their adoptables comfortable in their crates. The rescue also needs quality cat food, cat litter, dog food and other pet supplies. All donations can be dropped off at Puppy Love: 1835 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood, NJ 07040.

dog beds
cat beds
blankets
linens
towels
cat and dog food
cat litter




Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.


As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers


As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.


Mark Slade

Thursday, October 15, 2015

What Mortage Product is Right For You When Buying a Home?

What Mortgage Should I Choose: An infographic from The Mortgage Reports

Find your local mortgage loan limits at The Mortgage Reports.


The Mortgage Reports Infographic : How To Choose Which Mortgage Product Suits You Best
WHICH MORTGAGE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

Ten years ago, it was tough to get a mortgage. Lenders were stingy and guidelines were tight. Few loans were approved and the housing market suffered.

Today, the mortgage market looks different.

Home values have (finally) surpassed last decade's peak prices, and mortgage lenders are more willing to make loans than during any period this decade.

More than 70% of purchase loans are getting approved right now, according to Ellie Mae, whose mortgage software helps to process more than 3.5 million loan applications annually.

This is the largest approval percentage since such data has been tracked.

But, there's more to it for today's buyers than just "Will my mortgage get approved?". There are more mortgage choices available than during any part of this decade, too.

A proliferation of low- and no-downpayment mortgages have helped spur homeownership among long-time renters; and the return of the 80/10/10 loan is making it easier for existing homeowners to "move up" to something bigger.

Not sure which mortgage loan is best for you? This chart should be a help.

Click to see today's rates (Oct 15th, 2015)
WHAT MORTGAGE OPTIONS DO YOU HAVE?

The mortgage market is expanding. Mortgage lenders are offering new products for the first time in a decade; and, it's getting easier to getting approved for low- and zero-downpayment mortgages.

However, it's not always clear which loan is best for your needs. For example, just because you qualify for an FHA loan, should you use one?

Or, if you're eligible for a 100% USDA loan but you plan to make a downpayment of 10 percent, should you still use the USDA loan for your purchase?

To help you with your mortgage choices, The Mortgage Reports presents this flowchart.

The graphic uses three specific loan traits as a starting point -- (1) Downpayment Amount, (2) Loan Size and (3) Credit Score -- then follows-up with specific questions to help you find your "optimal" mortgage loan program.

In addition to identifying conventional loan opportunities via Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the flowchart identifies loan possibilities via the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), via jumbo mortgage lenders, and via niche mortgage programs including the USDA Rural Housing loan, the Department of Veterans Affairs VA loan, and the Fannie Mae Conventional 97 program.

Some of the questions asked include :

What is your local loan limit?
Are you borrowing more than your local loan limit?
Do you plan to make a downpayment of 20% or more?
Do you plan to make a downpayment of 5% of less?
Depending on your answers to the above questions, the flowchart might recommend a conforming loan with private mortgage insurance (PMI); or a jumbo mortgage that allows for loan sizes in excess of your local loan limits; or some different program which may be more suitable.

Your loan choice may also be affected by where you live.

Buyers in less-densely populated areas may find the USDA Rural Housing program to be their best fit. Note that 97% of the United States is "USDA-eligible" and the USDA mortgage allows for 100% financing.

Furthermore, buyers may be routed to specific loan program depending on whether their downpayment is a gift from family, or is sourced from their own funds.

Once you've found a suitable loan program, pump your numbers into a mortgage payment calculator to determine your expected mortgage payment (and make sure you're using accurate mortgage rates).

When you know your expected monthly payment, you can better budget for a home -- whether you're buying today, next month, or next year.

Click to see today's rates (Oct 15th, 2015)

Posted OCTOBER 13, 2015
in MORTGAGE STRATEGY


by DAN GREEN

Dan Green is a mortgage market expert, providing over 11 years of direct-to-consumer advice. You can also connect with Dan on Twitter and on Facebook



Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.


As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers


As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.


Mark Slade

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Living in Maplewood: Free Health Clinics ranging from Hip Pain to Sleep Disorders and more!


Are you suffering from hip pain? Is it affecting your way of life? This Thursday is your opportunity to speak with a healthcare professional about hip issues and hip replacement options.

Join us this Thursday for a presentation by Dr. Timothy Henderson, Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon for the Fall Healthy Inside and Out Lecture Series, provided by Saint Barnabas Medical Center and provided through the Maplewood Health Department. All programs are free and open to the public however registration on Barnabas Health Link (888) 724-7123 is highly recommended.

Here is a list of the other upcoming programs on Thursdays at DeHart Community Center:
• October 22nd: “Dispelling Myths About Foot and Nail Care” with Dr. Kenneth Donovan
• October 29th: “Sleep Disorders” with Jackie Morgado
• November 5th: “Know the Skin You’re In” with Dr. Franz Smith




Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.


As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers


As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.


Mark Slade

Monday, October 12, 2015

Maplewood and South Orange Lacrosse Club Registration 2016


MAPLEWOOD LACROSSE CLUB SPRING 2016 REGISTRATION INFORMATION


RETURNING PLAYERS - OPENS 10/18 / NEW PLAYERS - OPENS 10/25

Registration is ONLY for Residents of South Orange and Maplewood

UNIFORM SIZING ON 10/18 DURING TRILOGY CLINICS @ RITZER FIELD 9AM-2PM


Please go to www.maplewoodlacrosseclub.com for further information and to access registration.



Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.


As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers


As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.


Mark Slade

Sunday, October 4, 2015

Why I made the move from Brooklyn to Maplewood, a.k.a. Brooklyn West


Our little family of five just made the move to Maplewood this past week after about a year of looking all over Queens, Beacon, Rockland County (Nyack, etc), Westchester (Tarrytown, Ossining, Peekskill, etc) and, finally, Maplewood. After having heard so much about how many people were moving here from NYC, we were thrilled to have found a house that's walking distance to the excellent-rated elementary school, the community pool and two libraries, as well as having a direct train to Penn Station. When we came to look at open houses, it was almost as if the entire neighborhood had been staged — kids walking to soccer practice at a nearby park, father and son riding their bikes, kids hanging out on a stoop across the street.

Having known or heard of so many Brooklyn families that were moving here made it seem as it had been vetted.

While I'm not so sure about the "Brooklyn West" designation, it does seem to be full of New Yorkers. Our neighbors are from Manhattan, and there are a couple of former Brooklyn Baby Hui families within a few blocks of where we are. http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/12/realestate/maplewood-nj-if-brooklyn-were-a-suburb.html

There's a decent roundup of things going on around town:: http//www.maplewoodonline.com/

I don't know Montclair, though I'm sure it's lovely, too, and this piece makes me think it's pretty comparable: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/24/realestate/moving-out-of-brooklyn-because-of-high-prices.html

Feel free to reach out with any questions!

Bruno (Cat, 35m; Felix, 18m; Oliver, 3w)

Mark Slade: Bruno agreed to let me repost this group reply.



Mark Slade
Keller Williams
917.797.5059
Good Homes



Selling a Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills area home involves many steps and having an experienced Maplewood New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor®, specializing in the Bedroom Communities of New York City in Essex/Union County— Millburn, Short Hills, Montclair, West Orange, South Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Springfield, Summit, Madison, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Cranford and Westfield--by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your Maplewood/South Orange New Jersey Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the Bedroom Communities of New York City, mostly served by NJ Transit’s Mid-Town Direct Train Lines, offering commutes of 45minute or less to NY Penn Station, with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.


As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent (ABR), I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home. My GO-TO team can provide you the best in Real Estate advice with regard to attorney choices, Home Inspectors and Mortgage Loan Officers


As your Maplewood/South Orange/Millburn/Short Hills/Essex/Union County New Jersey listing agent I am well versed on as your local expert in all things in the Maplewood and South Orange area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your Mid-Town Direct home to be competitive in today’s market with training to provide my clients with an in-depth Advanced Comparative Market analysis, and advice on staging. As my office’s technology officer as well as both a Zillow Platinum Premier and Trulia Premier agent, I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your New Jersey Real Estate Agent and Realtor ® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your New Jersey Essex/Union County area Realtor® (with a little bit of Morris County thrown in for good measure) is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Your Dream Home” is my number one priority.


Mark Slade




Friday, October 2, 2015

Living in South Orange/Maplewood, A.K.A. SOMA: The 2015-2016 Schedule at SoPAC


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fall-Winter Events at SOPAC
(as of October 1, 2015)

Where: South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC),
1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ, 07079.
Tickets: To purchase tickets, contact SOPAC at (973) 313-2787
or visit www.SOPACnow.org.
Media Contact: Dee Billia, dee@sopacnow.org (973) 382-1031


***Hi–Rez photos are available for easy download from the link below:

http://bit.ly/1QNJRGv

(South Orange, Oct. 1, 2015)
October 3: Loudon Wainwright III & Nellie McKay
See the dynamic duo! Grammy Award-winning traditional folk singer-songwriter Loudon Wainwright III along with songstress and Broadway actress Nellie McKay. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $35-$55. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org.

October 9: EagleMania- The Ultimate Tribute to the Eagles
EagleMania has dedicated itself to faithfully reproducing the sound of The Eagles for the past three years. Since their inception, EagleMania has been thrilling audiences all over the East Coast with their stunning five-part harmonies and their uncanny ability to emulate The Eagles note by note. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $25-$35 (973) 313-2787.www.SOPACnow.org

October 10: Jonatha Brooke & Patty Larkin
An evening with Jonatha Brooke and Patty Larkin promises poignant lyrics and complex harmonies within the genres of folk, rock and pop, all the while touching your heart, tickling your funny bone and delivering a message or a story in a totally authentic way. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $35-$45. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

October 11: Vienna Boys Choir
The Vienna Boys Choir is a musical tradition that dates back over 500 years. Until 1918, the choir sang exclusively for the imperial court, at mass, at private concerts and functions, and on state occasions. Today, however, with a repertoire that includes everything from medieval to contemporary to experimental music, over 100 choristers travel the globe in four different choirs performing music to over a half million people in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas.
Presented by SOPAC and Seton Hall University. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 3pm. $38-$58 (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

October 18: Theatre in the Loft: The Impossibility of Now
A staged reading presented by Midtown Direct Rep.
In Y York’s charmingly funny and and well-observed new play, words have lost their meaning and dreams are blurring with movies for Carl, a brilliant science writer suffering memory loss and facing a life he cannot quite recall. As the new Carl woos his longtime wife, Miranda, his unexpected demeanor upends her plans for a future with the tall attractive pediatric dentist. It’s a comedy of remembering and forgetting. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm. $15 (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

October 29: A Very Special Solo Evening With Joan Armatrading
This beloved singer-songwriter’s world tour will be her first as a solo performer, as well as her final major tour. In a recording career spanning 40 years, British singer-songwriter and guitarist Joan Armatrading is a three-time Grammy Award-nominee, a two-time BRIT Award-nominee, and an Ivor Novello Award recipient for Outstanding Contemporary Song Collection. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7:30pm. $68-$95. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 1: David Bromberg Big Band
With a stage full of incredible talent and no set list, the freewheeling David Bromberg Big Band concerts have become the stuff of legends. His sensitive and versatile approach to guitar-playing is steeped in the folk and blues traditions. An eclectic artist, he plays bluegrass, blues, folk, jazz, country, western, and rock and roll equally well. He is known for his quirky, humorous lyrics, and the ability to play rhythm and lead guitar at the same time. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7:30pm. $48-$70 (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 5: Olate Dogs- Winners of America’s Got Talent
The Olate Dogs are the winners of the seventh season of America’s Got Talent, scooping up the $1,000,000 prize and headlining The Palazzo in Las Vegas. Led by Richard Olate and his son Nicholas Olate, The Olate Dogs are a high-energy, fast-paced canine theatrical act filled with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics and lots of laughs. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm. $25-$75 - VIP Package Available. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 7: Get the Led Out “The American Led Zeppelin”
The premiere Led Zeppelin tribute band returns to the SOPAC stage. Dubbed by the media as “The American Led Zeppelin,” Get The Led Out have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage for a live experience like you’ve never heard before. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $35-$50. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 8: Theatre In the Loft: Art in the Public Eye: 3 One-Act Plays
The South Orange Performing Arts Center and The Lennie Pierro Memorial Arts Foundation present readings of three commissioned plays that explore the provocative issues that often arise around public art as part of Art in the Public Eye. Playwrights include B.V.Marshall, Mark Lowenstern, and Eddie Antar. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 3pm. $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 14: Leon Russell
Leon Russell is a Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famer who has been performing his gospel-infused southern boogie piano rock, blues, and country music for over 50 years. He is a music legend and perhaps the most accomplished and versatile musician in the history of rock ‘n roll. In his distinguished and unique career, he has played on, arranged, written and/or produced some of the best records in popular music. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $38-$58. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org.

November 15: Theatre in the Loft: What God Hath Wrought!
A staged reading presented by Midtown Direct Rep
As an overly-dedicated Customer Service Rep, there’s no complaint Meg can’t resolve. But when an unresolved message from 1857 comes across her screen, she journeys back to the laying of the first Transatlantic telegraph cable when Ireland and the New World shared their first electronic kiss. This modern farce by John Walch, with music by Rachel Peters and directed by Shana Gold, mingles the sublime and the silly, weaving olden dances with the digital orgy of today, as characters desperately seek connections to those they love, no matter the distance. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 3pm. $15 (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 19: Kim Russo “The Happy Medium”
Kim Russo, also known as “Kim The Happy Medium,” has been able to see the “world of spirit” since the age of nine. Kim Russo is the host of the popular TV show, “The Haunting Of…” currently airing on A&E’s Lifetime Movie network channel. This weekly one-hour series is a follow-up show to the long running series “Celebrity Ghost Stories.” In her hit #1 show, she helps famous celebrities figure out and bring closure and healing to a paranormal experience they’ve once had. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7:30pm. $30-$45. VIP Package available. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 21: The Weight “Celebrating the Music of the Bank, Levon Helm Band and Rick Danko Group”
Replicating the music of The Band is a tall order. But interpreting the music of The Band is an art. Songs that have reverberated across history for decades continue to speak to millions of us. Come and “Take A Load Off.” South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $27-$38. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 22: Rickie Lee Jones
Two-time Grammy Award-winner Rickie Lee Jones exploded onto the pop scene in 1978 and has made a career of fearlessly experimenting with her sound and persona over fifteen critically acclaimed albums. A cultural phenomenon, Rolling Stone magazine put her on its cover twice in two years, and Saturday Night Live gave her an unprecedented three songs for her second appearance. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7:30pm $48-$68. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 28: Giants of Jazz Honoring George Cables
Join us at the 18th annual Giants of Jazz celebration! Honoree George Cables will be joined by some of the greatest names in Jazz in this star-studded night of music.
Cables has performed and recorded with some of the greatest jazz musicians of our time, including: Joe Henderson, Roy Haynes, Max Roach, Art Blakey, Sonny Rollins, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, Sarah Vaughn, Tony Williams, Bobby Hutcherson and Dizzy Gillespie. He has emerged as a major voice in modern jazz. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange.8pm $50-$60. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

December 6: American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker
American Repertory Ballet brings the beloved classic Nutcracker to the SOPAC stage with Tchaikovsky’s glittering score, spectacular costumes, stunning scenic effects, inventive choreography and a cast of approximately seventy-five performers. In this holiday ballet, the gift of a beautiful nutcracker brings young Clara astonishing dreams of battling mice, enchanted forests, and the exotic Land of Sweets. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 1pm & 5pm $25-$30. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

December 12: RAEL: The Music of Genesis
RAEL-The Music of Genesis is a New York and Northern New Jersey-based tribute band that recaptures the energy and originality of the “early years” live stage performances by Genesis. RAEL pays homage to the most groundbreaking and influential band in the progressive rock genre by incorporating the musical excellence, lyrical storytelling, and theatricality that brought Genesis to a position of prominence in the rock world. RAEL:The Music of Genesis brings older listeners back to the day, while introducing progressive rock newcomers to the sights and sounds that laid the groundwork for all subsequent groups to follow such as Pink Floyd, Yes, Rush, and King Krimson to name but a few. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $20-$30. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

December 13: Juilliard @ SOPAC: Juilliard Jazz Ensemble
The Juilliard Jazz Ensemble lights up the SOPAC stage once again with an exciting performance of swinging holiday classics. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 3pm. $25. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

December 17: Dar Williams
Dar Williams has enjoyed a remarkable career which began when Joan Baez, an early fan of her music, took her out on the road and recorded several of her songs. At the core of her work is a belief in the innate ability of people to make a better world, the product of countless observations in her travels and conversations with her fans. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7:30pm. $30-$45. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

December 19: Cherish the Ladies “A Celtic Christmas”
Taking their name from a traditional Irish jig, Cherish the Ladies share timeless Irish traditions with audiences worldwide. In this program, the Ladies perform classic Christmas carols in their signature arrangements highlighting unique Celtic instrumentation, beautiful harmonies, and spectacular Irish step-dancing. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $30-$40. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

January 3: Blues in the Loft: Billy Hector
Whether Billy Hector is teasing you with his sultry slide-work, picking through delta blues, or flat-out cranking it up on his beloved vintage Fender Stratocaster, his playing reflects the true soul and origins of the music; always passionate, engaging and dedicated to making the audience move and groove. Having honed his chops and style through three decades of performances, Hector is recognized as one of the hottest guitarist/songwriters on the circuit and has even been named “a New Jersey State treasure” by some. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 1pm & 5pm $25-$30. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

January 24: Jazz in the Loft: Radam Schwartz
Radam Schwartz has built his reputation over the last 25 years playing with such great musicians as Arthur and Red Prysock, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Al Hibler, and Jimmy Ford. He continues to make music history today playing with renowned artists Cecil Brooks III, Russell Malone, and David Fathead Newman. Radam Schwartz’s own band, Conspiracy for Positivity, offers a fresh, original jazz sound and brings youth and experience to the bandstand. The members of Conspiracy for Positivity are Schwartz on organ, James Gibbs III on trumpet, Tyshawn Sorey, Luciana Padmore, or Joe Brown on drums, Misha Fatkiev or Shawn Maloney on guitar, Anthony Ware or Irwin Hall on alto saxophone, and James Stewart on baritone sax. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

January 30: Robyn Hitchcock
Robyn Hitchcock is one of England’s most enduring contemporary singer-songwriters and live performers. A surrealist poet, talented guitarist, cult artist and musician’s musician, Robyn Hitchcock is among alternative rock’s father figures and is the closest thing the genre has to a Bob Dylan, who is, coincidentally, Robyn Hitchcock’s biggest musical inspiration. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm $32-$38. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

February 5: An Evening with Fran Lebowitz
Purveyor of urban cool, Fran Lebowitz is the cultural satirist whom many call the heir to Dorothy Parker. She is pointed, forthright, unapologetically opinionated, and known for her hilariously dry social commentary on American life. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm $45. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

February 7: Bill Sims, Jr.
Bill Sims, Jr., inherited the musical traditions of blues and gospel from his father and began playing piano at the age of four. At 14, Bill Sims, Jr turned professional by joining his first band, Ohio-based Jacksonian Blues. He left the band to attend Ohio State University where he majored in music. There, he learned his lessons well sitting in the piano chair of Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Freddie King, the Ojays, Jerry Butler and many other greats. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

February 19: Triple Threat Dance Showcase
Umoja Dance Company, Freespace Dance, and NJTAP Dance Ensemble join forces to bring the excitement of three different styles of dance to the SOPAC stage in the Triple Threat Dance Showcase. This one incredible evening features performances inspired by the African Diaspora, a modern dance company that is renowned for creating emotionally-driven work with a bold athletic style, and the joy and infectious spirit of the uniquely American art form called tap. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm $20. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

February 21: Jazz in the Loft: Tommy Campbell’s Vocal Eyes
Tommy Campbell grew up outside of Philadelphia steeped in a musical environment permeated by the notes of his father, an organist and singer, and his uncle, Jimmy Smith, the renowned Hammond B-3 virtuoso. Campbell attended the Berklee College of Music, the international center for education in professional music renowned for its acclaimed jazz faculty, where he majored in instrumental performance (1979) and received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 1998. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

February 26: Peter Yarrow and John Gorka
Peter Yarrow weaves a narrative of his life in music and politics, punctuating the major events with renditions of iconic songs we all know and love such as “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” “Day is Done,” “Light One Candle,” and “The Great Mandala.” Rising from a milieu of lovelorn singer-songwriters, John Gorka illuminates instead with his trademark wordplay. For over two decades, his keen ear has picked up the stories of those along his path, folding them into poetry and song. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm $35-$45. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

March 13: Jazz in The Loft: Theo Walentiny
Theo Walentiny has been involved in music since the age of six. He began by playing classical piano under the direction of Claudine Hickman but always had an interest in improvisation and composing. From the age of eight, Theo studied improvisation through private lessons with Benjamin Smith, exploring different concepts in a wide variety of genres ranging from classical music to avante-garde and everything in between. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

April 3: Blues in the Loft: Eliza Neals
Eliza Neals is an award-winning, sultry, powerful blues-rock-soul vocalist and recording artist. She is also a composer, publisher, and producer who has been compared to greats such as Etta James, Janis Joplin, and Ricki Lee Jones. Her work explores the musical spectrum with a combination of blues-rock, psychedelic soul and a twist of jam band with southern rock covers. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

April 9: Atlantic City Ballet’s Carmen
The Atlantic City Ballet will set the stage for this classic tale of seduction, passion, betrayal and murder with Bizet’s sexy thriller, Carmen. Featuring the original, breathtaking choreography of Artistic Director Phyllis Papa, and an enthralling score by Georges Bizet, Carmen tells the story of a beautiful seductress, the two lovers who vie for her affection and the tragic outcome of their tangled affair. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm $25-$30. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

April 17: Jazz in the Loft: James Gibbs, III
James Gibbs,III, who recently worked and toured with eight-time Grammy Award-nominated singer-songwriter Joe Thomas, was born in Newark and raised in Irvington, New Jersey. Gibbs began playing the trumpet at the age of 14 at The New Brunswick Jazz Institute under instructor and legendary organist Radam Schwartz. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

June 5: Mike Griot & Friends with special guest Tomás Doncker
Internationally-acclaimed bassist and musical director Mike Griot leads an all-star ensemble in a journey through the blues and all of its unique musical destinations. Tomás Doncker has been living for music and playing his heart out for over four decades, working with people as diverse as Madonna, Sean Lennon, James Chance, Bootsy Collins, Bonnie Raitt, Ivan Neville, Bill Laswell, Bobby Caldwell, Sadao Watanabe and more. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm $15 (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

Kids ‘N Family Performances
October 10: Madeline and the Bad Hat
Told with gentle humor, and featuring a beautiful musical score, it is a delightful tale of enemies-become-friends and of the unbreakable bonds of friendship and family that will charm and entertain children and adults alike. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $18. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 5: Olate Dogs- Winners of America’s Got Talent
The Olate Dogs are the winners of the seventh season of America’s Got Talent, scooping up the $1,000,000 prize and headlining The Palazzo in Las Vegas. Led by Richard Olate and his son Nicholas Olate, The Olate Dogs are a high-energy, fast-paced canine theatrical act filled with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics and lots of laughs. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7pm. $25-$75 - VIP Package Available. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

November 14: Rainbow Magic Live! Saving Fairyland
Follow best friends Rachel and Kirsty as they hunt for magical wands and trick the silly goblins to save Fairyland. Filled with fun and adventure, this musical production will travel around the world exploring the arctic, the desert, and the rainforest with lots of excitement and laughter along the way. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $23-$28. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

December 6: American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker
American Repertory Ballet brings the beloved classic Nutcracker to the SOPAC stage with Tchaikovsky’s glittering score, spectacular costumes, stunning scenic effects, inventive choreography and a cast of approximately seventy-five performers. In this holiday ballet, the gift of a beautiful nutcracker brings young Clara astonishing dreams of battling mice, enchanted forests, and the exotic Land of Sweets. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 1pm & 5pm $25-$30. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

January 10: The Berenstain Bears Live! In Family Matters, the Musical
Adapted from the classic children’s book series by Stan and Jan Berenstain, The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters, the Musical brings everyone’s favorite bear family to life in a thrilling theatrical experience that kids will treasure for many years to come. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $23-$28. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

February 6: The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other Eric Carle Favourites
The triple-bill includes the wonderful story of The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s metamorphosis into a beautiful butterfly; the fanciful account of Little Cloud’s travels through the sky, and the Mixed-Up Chameleon’s discovery of his own unique nature. The whimsical tales have enchanted several generations, and Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s acclaimed stage adaptation teaches as well as entertains. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $20-$25. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

March 19: PINKALICIOUS, The Musical
Elizabeth and Victoria Kann’s popular series of picture books follows the adventures of a charming girl whose single-minded determination gets her into all sorts of colorful trouble. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $23-$28. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

April 2: The BFG (Big Friendly Giant)
Humongous on humor and large on laughs, the story of The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) was Roald Dahl’s personal favorite. On stage, his whizz-cracklingly wacky tale comes to life with puppets and people creating a fantastical world of towering giants and magical adventures. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $25-$30. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

May 14: Story Pirates: Greatest Hits
Story Pirates celebrates creative writing by students from coast to coast in a loud, hilarious sketch comedy musical performed by professional improvisers and musicians. When the curtain rises, cats can fly; hot dogs save the world; fried foods battle dairy foods; some of the characters you’re likely to meet are Captain Waffles, Moneyhead Alan, or Snufflepants. Each live performance also includes an improvisation segment with stories and suggestions coming straight from the live audience! South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm. $18. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org

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SOPAC programs are made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) is a 501(c)(3)charitable organization.

About SOPAC
Since 2006, SOPAC has been serving as a premier performing arts center in the region. SOPAC offers innovative artistic and cultural experiences for diverse audiences in an intimate, inviting environment. The premier arts center hosts a variety of live performances, community events and education programs for all ages. To further expand its offerings, SOPAC has a partnership with the Juilliard School of Music to present Juilliard @ SOPAC—a series featuring upcoming musicians from the acclaimed conservatory. SOPAC is home for Seton Hall University Arts Council’s performances, including Classical Concert Series, Jazz N’ the Hall performances and Seton Hall Theatre productions. SOPAC also presents performances by its theater company in residence, Midtown Direct Rep, and its dance company in residence, Lydia Johnson Dance. For more information, visit SOPACnow.org.



Dee Billia, Director of External Relations
SOPAC | South Orange Performing Arts Center
dee@sopacnow.org | (973) 382-1031

South Orange Performing Arts Center
One SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ 07079



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Keller Williams
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