free play reading series…
tues. june 3 at 7pm
ATG in partnership with the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC), will present the premiere reading of Sharyn Rothstein’s new play The Willows as part of its free Play Reading Series on Tues. June 3rd at 7pm at Hamilton Stage in Rahway, NJ. The reading will be directed by Chris O’Connor.
Set in an assisted living facility after the first hard year of the pandemic, The Willows is a humorous, heart-filled story about mothers and daughters, unexpected friendships, and learning to listen to—and love—the people in our lives we may not agree with.
ATG presented full productions of Rothstein’s Right to be Forgotten in 2023 and A Good Farmer in 2018. She is an award-winning playwright and television writer. Her newest play Bad Books is a National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere play and will be produced at theaters across America this year. She was most recently a writer and Co-Executive Producer on SUITS LA, the spin-off of the hit legal drama SUITS, for which she wrote and produced for five seasons.
The Willows cast will feature Betty Aberlin (Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood), Helen Farmer (Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey), Rebecca Mozo (American Rep’s Becoming A Man) and Annie McAdams (Broadway: Slave Play).
Director Chris O’Connor, former Artistic Director of Hoboken’s Mile Square Theatre (MST), is currently Associate Professor and Chair of the Molloy University/CAP21 BFA Musical Theatre Conservatory. His recent directing projects include Good People, Billy Bishop Goes to War and Two Gentlemen of Verona at Franklin Stage Company.
ATG Awarded
“Excellence in the Arts”
We are thrilled to announce that ATG has been awarded an Excellence in the Arts award bestowed by the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission. Since 2006, the biennial program has honored individuals and organizations that show exemplary leadership and dedication to the fine and performing arts in Somerset County. ATG was recognized in the "Arts in the Community" category and was presented with the award during the Oct. 26th ceremony at the Sieminski Theater.
ATG strives to improve the lives of New Jersey residents every day, by intertwining unique arts, culture, and educational offerings with the community. Our high-quality artistic productions are meant to be enjoyed, as well as inspire thought and conversation after patrons leave the theater. It is very fulfilling to see our mission and efforts acknowledged, especially by the Somerset County Commission, which has long-supported our work.
Jim Vagias receives the “Excellence in the Arts” award from Rory Britt, President of the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, and Melonie Marano, Somerset County Commissioner.
Wicked Benefit — Oct. 1st, 2023
We are pleased to share some photos from our very special Benefit which raised funds for ATG programs. This incredible event began with a performance of the smash Broadway hit Wicked followed by a reception at a nearby restaurant. The event was attended by ATG Board Member Michele Pawk and her husband John Dossett, currently starring in the musical as Madame Morrible and the Wizard, as well as some of their cast mates. Special guest Susan Hilferty, a top costume designer who received a Tony Award for Wicked, kindly presented special costume sketches to John and Michele (pictured below).
In addition, Zoe Rivera, one of the high school students who participated in our New Works/New Voices playwriting program, was another special guest. Zoe spoke about how the program helped expose her to the arts and gave her the confidence to pursue a BFA at Marymount College.
We were thrilled for the opportunity to provide our ATG Board members and supporters with access to this "insider event." Their support allows us to continue producing outstanding productions and arts education programs for the community.
ATG Board members and supporters mingled with cast members McKenzie Kurtz (Glinda), Jordan Litz (Fiyero) Michele Pawk and John Dossett, and costume designer Susan Hilferty.
From left, Michele Pawk, Kimber Elayne Sprawl, John Dossett, Zoe Rivera and Jordan Litz.
Tony Award-winning costume designer Susan Hilferty presents special sketches to John Dossett and Michele Pawk.
Cast members join Jim Vagias and Board members.
Cast members with additional Board members.