“TOGETHER AT HOME” 

FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2021 

Honoring Merck with an evening featuring special guests Andy Blankenbuehler, Deborah Cox, Beth Leavel, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rob McClure, Alan Menken, Chita Rivera, Stephen Schwartz, Susan Stroman, and more
plus students from Paper Mill education programs.

(Millburn, NJ) Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Producing Artistic Director, Mike Stotts-Managing Director) is hosting its largest fundraising event of the year, the Paper Mill Playhouse Together at Home Gala, to be held virtually on Friday, June 4, 2021. The event will be hosted on Virtual Tables, a unique, interactive platform designed to evoke the excitement and glamour of Paper Mill’s in-person galas. The virtual cocktail party begins at 6:30pm, followed by a star-studded one-hour program at 7:00pm that will include performances, tributes, and a live auction including a chance to bid on tickets to Elton John’s Final Farewell at Madison Square Garden Concert and a New York Yankees luxury suite experience for two people to watch the game with world series champion players. Silent auction will be active during the event and continue until 10:00pm the night of the event. 

The gala is proudly sponsored by Investors Bank, FirstEnergy, and David Yurman. In addition to VIP tickets, show-only tickets are available for a suggested donation of $30. All proceeds from the gala support Paper Mill’s world-class productions, professional training programs, celebrated arts education programs, and community outreach. 

“This year’s event is more critical than ever,” said Mike Stotts, Paper Mill’s managing director. “The proceeds from our gala will help ensure that we are ready to launch an exciting season of live theater this fall, bring students back to our Theater School for in-person instruction, and serve our most vulnerable children through our Theater for Everyone program.” 
 

“This gala promises to be an entertaining and fun way to support the theater when we need it most,” said Producing Artistic Director Mark S. Hoebee. “We’ve lined up several of Paper Mill’s favorite artists to perform and reminisce about their experiences at our theater. There will also be a chance to bid on many exciting auction items. After a long and trying year, this will be an especially joyful celebration.” 

This year’s honoree is Merck, a longtime partner of Paper Mill and steadfast supporter of the performing arts. Paula Alston, Vice President of Facilities at Merck, will receive the Byrne/Keane Arts Advocate Award. And special recognition will be given to the Paper Mill staff for their tireless dedication over the past year.  

“We are thrilled to honor our longtime partner Merck, whose support makes some of our core programs possible,” said Gala Chair Carolyn Ferolito. “And it was especially important to us to recognize the devoted staff members of Paper Mill, who went above and beyond to keep our theater afloat while the world was shut down. Our staff members often don’t get accolades for the critical work they do behind the scenes, but all of them are stars. And this year more than ever, they deserve a standing ovation.”  

For more information on the Paper Mill Playhouse Gala or to purchase individual tickets, tables, or raffle tickets, please contact Leigh Schaedel at 973-315-1663 or lschaedel@papermill.org, or visit Paper Mill’s website at www.papermill.org/support-us/events/. 

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE, recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award, is a nationally renowned, not-for-profit theater under the direction of Mark S. Hoebee (Producing Artistic Director) and Mike Stotts (Managing Director). A beloved NJ arts institution since 1938, Paper Mill creates and produces groundbreaking new musicals and reimagined classics. Several productions have gone on to Broadway and launched national tours, including Disney’s Newsies, Les Misérables, Honeymoon in Vegas, A Bronx Tale, and Bandstand. The theater is also the home of an award-winning center for musical theater education and artist training, with outreach programs that impact thousands of students each year. As one of the nation’s premier musical theaters, Paper Mill fosters a creative environment to advance the art form, educate students, develop future theater lovers, nurture inclusion, and provide access for all. Paper Mill Playhouse programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Paper Mill Playhouse is a member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, the Council of Stock Theatres, and the New Jersey Theatre Alliance. 

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SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD
A JOLLY HOLIDAY WITH DISNEY ON BROADWAY
CLUE
THE WANDERER (World Premiere)
SISTER ACT

MILLBURN, NJ (May 18, 2021) — Paper Mill Playhouse Producing Artistic Director Mark S. Hoebee and Managing Director Michael Stotts have announced the lineup for the upcoming reopening season and look forward to welcoming audiences back to the theater for live performances.

The Paper Mill Playhouse 2021–2022 lineup includes three eagerly anticipated productions that were postponed from previous seasons—Sister Act, Clue, and the world-premiere musical The Wanderer. Season subscriptions are on sale now and are available by visiting the theater’s website at www.PaperMill.org. Paper Mill Playhouse’s 2021–2022 season is proudly sponsored by Investors Bank.

Paper Mill will open its 2021–2022 season with Songs for a New World, the groundbreaking musical that put Tony Award–winning composer-lyricist Jason Robert Brown on the map (October 13–November 7, 2021). From the deck of a Spanish sailing ship bound for a new land to the ledge of a Fifth Avenue penthouse, Songs for a New World transports audiences through time to meet a startling array of characters on the brink of a life-changing decision. Brown (Honeymoon in Vegas, Parade, The Bridges of Madison County) weaves their stories together in a powerful collection of songs that examine life, love, and the choices we make. Carolyn Cantor (Paper Mill’s Diary of Anne Frank) directs.

Next up, Paper Mill brings audiences a delightful show for the whole family—A Jolly Holiday with Disney on Broadway (December 1, 2021–January 2, 2022). Some of Broadway’s brightest stars will perform hits from Disney’s biggest Broadway shows in this festive concert. Enjoy your favorite songs from The Lion King, Tarzan, Mary Poppins, Aladdin, Hercules, The Little Mermaid, Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Aida, High School Musical, Freaky Friday, and Frozen. Like Mary Poppins herself, this show is guaranteed to make your heart feel light!

Murder and blackmail are back on the menu with Clue (January 26–February 20, 2022), which gets its Paper Mill production after a postponement from the fall of 2020. Casey Hushion (Paper Mill’s upcoming streaming production of Beehive) directs this hilarious farce-meets-murder-mystery based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro game. Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? One of America’s most treasured pieces of pop culture comes to the stage in a production that will leave you dying of laughter.

The season continues with the long-awaited world-premiere musical The Wanderer (March 24–April 24, 2022), rescheduled from the 2019–2020 season, directed by Kenneth Ferrone and choreographed by Sarah O’Gleby. The new musical is based on the life and music of Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dion DiMucci, an Italian-American kid from the Bronx who skyrocketed to fame as a teenage heartthrob in the 1950s and early ’60s with hits like “Runaround Sue,” “Teenager in Love,” and “I Wonder Why.” Now, his extraordinary journey comes to the stage in a moving and intimate new musical about a life lived in the glow of the spotlight and in the shadow of addiction. The Wanderer is the riveting true story of New York’s rebel king, the man Bruce Springsteen calls “the link between Frank Sinatra and rock and roll.” Starring Michael Wartella (Chasing Rainbows, Wicked) as Dion, Christy Altomare (Anastasia), and Joey McIntyre (Wicked, Waitress, New Kids on the Block). The Wanderer is written by Charles Messina (A Room of My Own) and is produced in association with Jill Menza and Charles Messina.

And finally, the sisters will sing when Sister Act takes the stage (June 1–26, 2022) after a postponement from the spring of 2020. Based on the 1992 hit film, this feel-good musical comedy smash sizzles with powerful music, spectacular dancing, and a story that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits. The madcap plot is set in motion when disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder and must go into hiding in a convent, where she helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. Featuring original music by Tony and eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors), Sister Act was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

“We are so thrilled that we are able to bring three of our previously postponed shows into next season—Sister Act, Clue, and the world premiere of The Wanderer,” said Mark S. Hoebee, Producing Artistic Director of the Millburn theater. “And the entire family of course will enjoy A Jolly Holiday on Broadway with Disney. We chose to kick off this reopening season with Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World, because right now all of us are re-emerging into a new world. At this moment, we need the power of theater to help us begin to heal and move forward. After this long, dark year, we are ecstatic to be able to welcome live audiences back to Paper Mill for a season filled with music, laughter, and light.”

“We simply could not have made it through this crisis without the support of the loyal subscribers and donors who have kept our theater going and our spirits lifted while our doors have been closed,” said Managing Director Michael Stotts. “Thanks to their generosity, we were able not only to survive but to emerge ready and able to continue producing the world-class musical theater for which Paper Mill is renowned. We are eternally grateful, and our hearts are full. All of us at Paper Mill Playhouse look forward to turning the lights back on and welcoming our Paper Mill family back to our theater for a joyful 2021–2022 season!”

“After the devastating year we all have endured, the 2021-2022 season of Paper Mill Playhouse is a beacon of hope. Investors Bank is honored to provide its support, particularly for the inspiration, enrichment, and arts education Paper Mill brings to our students, our families, and our community. We are proud to see the lights shining and the curtain going up on the treasure that is Paper Mill’s new season.” said Investors Bank Chairman and CEO Kevin Cummings.

Paper Mill Playhouse continues to prepare for the most responsible opening possible and will reopen in the fall with a thorough Covid safety plan that incorporates the latest recommendations from its medical advisors and the CDC. The theater will announce the full details of our finalized plan over the summer. The health and safety of patrons, artists, and staff remains Paper Mill’s top priority as they plan their return.

Paper Mill Playhouse will produce eight performances a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Three-, four- and five-show subscription packages are available now starting at just $114. Each subscription package includes a different level of special benefits (see www.PaperMill.org for details). Accessibly priced youth subscriptions are available for children under 18 with the purchase of an adult subscription. Tickets to individual shows will be on sale beginning September 7. That date may be adjusted if there are continuing unknowns about mandated Covid-related capacity and distancing restrictions. Visit www.Papermill.org for the most up-to-date information. Tickets and subscriptions may be purchased by calling 973.671.4355, or online at www.PaperMill.org. The box office will reopen in person on September 7 at noon. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express accepted.

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE’S 2021-2022 SEASON

SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD

Music and Lyrics by Jason Robert Brown
Directed by Carolyn Cantor
Oct 13–Nov 7, 2021

It’s about one moment, that moment you think you know where you stand…

This groundbreaking musical put Tony Award–winning composer-lyricist Jason Robert Brown on the map. From the deck of a Spanish sailing ship bound for a new land to the ledge of a Fifth Avenue penthouse, Songs for a New World transports audiences through time to meet a startling array of characters on the brink of a life-changing decision. Brown (Honeymoon in Vegas, Parade, The Bridges of Madison County) weaves their stories together in a powerful collection of songs that examine life, love, and the choices we make.

***

A JOLLY HOLIDAY WITH DISNEY ON BROADWAY

Dec 1, 2021–Jan 2, 2022

A merry and magical celebration for the whole family

Celebrate the holidays with some of Broadway’s brightest stars performing hits from Disney’s biggest Broadway shows in this festive concert. Enjoy your favorite songs from The Lion King, Tarzan, Mary Poppins, Aladdin, Hercules, The Little Mermaid, Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Aida, High School Musical, Freaky Friday and Frozen. Like Mary Poppins herself, this show is guaranteed to make your heart feel light!

***

CLUE

Based on the Screenplay by Jonathan Lynn
Written by Sandy Rustin
Additional Material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price
Based on the Paramount Pictures Motion Picture
Based on the Hasbro Board Game Clue
Original Music by Michael Holland
Directed by Casey Hushion
Jan 26–Feb 20, 2022

A hilarious farce-meets-murder-mystery

Getting its Paper Mill production after a postponement in the fall of 2020, Clue puts murder and blackmail back on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble for a dinner party at Boddy Manor. Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro game, this farce-meets murder-mystery is bloody good fun.

***

THE WANDERER

Book by Charles Messina
Choreographed by Sarah O’Gleby
Directed by Kenneth Ferrone
Mar 24–Apr 24, 2022

The riveting true story of New York’s rebel king

Dion. One name set the standard of cool for a generation. An Italian-American kid from the Bronx, Dion DiMucci skyrocketed to fame as a teenage heartthrob in the 1950s and early ’60s with hits like “Runaround Sue,” “Teenager in Love,” and “I Wonder Why.” Now, his extraordinary journey comes to the stage in a moving and intimate new musical about a life lived in the glow of the spotlight and in the shadow of addiction. Starring Michael Wartella (Chasing Rainbows, Wicked) as Dion, Christy Altomare (Anastasia), and Joey McIntyre (Wicked, Waitress, New Kids on the Block).

***

SISTER ACT

Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Glenn Slater
Book by Cheri Steinkellner & Bill Steinkellner
Additional Book Material by Douglas Carter Beane
Based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture Sister Act Written by Joseph Howard
Choreographed by Anthony Van Laast
Directed by Jerry Zaks
Choreography Recreated by Janet Rothermel
Direction Recreated by Steven Beckler

June 1–26, 2022

“One big, spirit-soaring joyful noise!” —The London Times

Finally, the sisters will sing after a postponement in the spring of 2020. Based on the 1992 hit film, this feel-good musical comedy smash sizzles with powerful music, spectacular dancing, and a story that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits. The madcap plot is set in motion when disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder and must go into hiding in a convent, where she helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. Featuring original music by Tony winner and eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors), Sister Act was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

***

Paper Mill Playhouse offers its audiences the opportunity to enhance their theater experience with behind-the-scenes views of mainstage productions.  Have you ever wanted to sneak a peek behind the curtain? Or wondered what the director was thinking, or how the cast prepares for a show? Join us for one of many revealing insider’s experiences.  Visit the Paper Mill Playhouse website at www.PaperMill.org for dates for our Director’s Viewpoint Series, Conversation Club Series, Q&As with the cast, and more.

Paper Mill Playhouse offers people with disabilities the opportunity to see live theater with dignity and independence through a myriad of award-winning access programs and services, including audio description and sensory seminars for the blind, Braille and large-print programs, American Sign Language interpretation for the Deaf, open-captioning for those with hearing loss, and assistive listening devices.

Programs, dates, and artists are subject to change.

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE, recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award, is a nationally renowned, not-for-profit theater under the direction of Mark S. Hoebee (Producing Artistic Director) and Michael Stotts (Managing Director). A beloved NJ arts institution since 1938, Paper Mill creates and produces groundbreaking new musicals and reimagined classics. Several productions have gone on to Broadway and launched national tours, including Disney’s Newsies, Les Misérables, Honeymoon in Vegas, A Bronx Tale, and Bandstand. The theater is also the home of an award-winning center for musical theater education and artist training, with outreach programs that impact thousands of students each year. As one of the nation’s premier musical theaters, Paper Mill fosters a creative environment to advance the art form, educate students, develop future theater lovers, nurture inclusion, and provide access for all. Paper Mill Playhouse programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Paper Mill Playhouse is a member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, the Council of Stock Theatres, and the New Jersey Theatre Alliance.

#####

www.PaperMill.org
facebook.com/PaperMillPlayhouse
Twitter: @paper_mill
Instagram: papermillplayhouse

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WATCH ON FACEBOOK  

WATCH ON YOUTUBE

LIST OF NOMINEES & WINNERS

2021 Rising Star Awards Program

As one of the nation’s leading theaters, Paper Mill Playhouse has a well-earned reputation for launching both performers and shows for Broadway. The theater was the recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award. Since their inception in 1996, the Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theater presented by the Investors Foundation have ignited the careers of many notable performers, all of whom attended high school in New Jersey. Among the early nominees and winners are Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway (Les Misérables), Tony Award winners Laura Benanti (Gypsy) and Nikki M. James (The Book of Mormon), Tony nominee Rob McClure (Chaplin), Shanice Williams, star of NBC’s The Wiz Live! and Olivier Award nominee Jared Gertner (The Book of Mormon).

This year’s award recipients will be announced during the 2021 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards Presented by the Investors Foundation, which will stream on Paper Mill Playhouse YouTube and Facebook outlets on Monday, June 7 at 7PM.

Among the top nominated high school performances and student achievement efforts, Delaware Valley Regional HS has five nominations, Ridge HS has four nominations, and St. Peter’s Preparatory School, Union HS and Madison HS each have three nominations.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic caused rolling school building closures and social distancing restrictions, leaving many New Jersey high schools unable to produce a traditional musical at their schools with a live audience.  Despite the restrictions, theater educators found new ways to teach students with strict Covid protocols in place, or explored new concepts for virtual rehearsals and performances.

With this in mind, Paper Mill launched an abridged Rising Star Awards program that preserves essential elements that serve both students and teachers and continues to provide a meaningful recognition platform for the school community.  Paper Mill welcomed video submissions of student performances for a shorter list of categories: Outstanding Solo Performance by an Actor and Actress; Outstanding Performance by a Small Ensemble and Large Ensemble; the Student Achievement Awards for non-performance contributions; the Rising Star Scholarships for graduating seniors and the Theater for Everyone Inclusion and Access Award.  A new honor, Outstanding Educator Award, has been added. Winners will receive the crystal Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Award made exclusively by Tiffany & Company.

“After a most difficult year, the Rising Star Awards are a testament to the determination and commitment of student performers and the dedication of the teachers involved in high school theater programs,” said Investors Bank Chairman and CEO Kevin Cummings. “Investors Bank is proud to present the awards and to encourage students to rise up each day in pursuit of their dreams. You are the essence of the show business mantra, ‘the show must go on.'”

In addition to recognizing performances, Paper Mill Playhouse will award $5,000 in scholarships at the awards ceremony.  Five $1,000 cash scholarships are given to outstanding individual students who plan to continue studying theater performance, education, or technical theater in college. In addition, Paper Mill Playhouse is pleased to award a prize of $1,000 to a school receiving the 2021 Rising Star “Theatre for Everyone” Inclusion and Access Award, a partnership with the New Jersey Theatre Alliance and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, to recognize excellence in the promotion and practice of creative inclusion of students and adults with disabilities as performers, designers, musicians, and production staff. This award seeks to recognize and reward a school that takes steps to ensure their performances are accessible to audiences with disabilities.

New to the Rising Star Awards in 2021 is the Outstanding Educator Award which will put the spotlight on educators nominated by their home school districts for their distinguished service to their students and theater programs.  A $1,000 prize will be granted to the recipients’ school theater programs.

Lastly, students receiving a Final Nomination in the Outstanding Performance by an Actor and Actress categories will receive a full scholarship prize to attend Paper Mill Playhouse’s competitive professional training program, the Summer Musical Theater Conservatory, at the Millburn theater during the month of July. Conservatory students take advanced classes in singing, acting and dance on a hybrid schedule – both in-studio and online—and will appear in the filmed musical theater montage, New Voices of 2021: Stand By Me.  New Voices is directed by Paper Mill’s professional creative staff and will be filmed in July with a World Premiere in September.

Rising Star scholarships are made possible by Ruth Bedford in memory of Jane Burgio, Walt Santner in honor of Janet Sovey, and the Douglas Michael Krueger Scholarship Fund Trust.

The 2021 Rising Star Awards Ceremony and the “Theater for Everyone” Inclusion and Access Award are part of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance 2021 Stages Festival, made possible by support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; Bank of America; The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey; OceanFirst Foundation; the George A. Ohl, Jr. Trust; New Jersey Historical Commission; and Fund for the New Jersey Blind. njtheatrealliance.org/stages

LIST OF NOMINEES & WINNERS

 OUTSTANDING SOLO PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS NOMINEES

Alex Belle, Collier HS, “My New Philosophy” from YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN

Emma Casertano, Ocean County Vocational Technical Schools-Grunin Performing Arts Academy, “The Music and the Mirror” from A CHORUS LINE

Leonor Fontanez, Delaware Valley Regional HS, “Cleaning Women” from WORKING

Halle Lipton, St. Peter’s Preparatory School, “Lying There” from EDGES: A SONG CYCLE

Kyra Longenecker, Madison HS, “I Want to Go to Hollywood” from GRAND HOTEL

Khadijah Sankoh, Union HS, “Waiting for Life” from ONCE ON THIS ISLAND

Yemie Woo, Pascack Hills HS, “Fabulous Baby” from SISTER ACT – WINNER

OUTSTANDING SOLO PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR NOMINEES

Will DeLargy, Morristown HS, “All I Care About is Love” from CHICAGO

Collin Flanagan, Madison HS, The Lady Must be Mad” from ILYRIA

Michael Bryant Kessie, Delaware Valley Regional HS, “Joe” from WORKING – WINNER

Nicholas Matos, St. Peter’s Preparatory School, “Monticello” from EDGES: A SONG CYCLE

Miguel Ramirez, Lawrence HS, “Dulcinea” from MAN OF LA MANCHA

Max Rodriguez, Ridge HS, “Gus: The Theatre Cat” from CATS

Jonah Ruderman, Livingston HS, “Who I’d Be” from SHREK: THE MUSICAL

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE BY A SMALL ENSEMBLE NOMINEES

County Prep HS, ”The Most Amazing Thing” from LITTLE WOMEN, featuring Ivellisses Segovia, Mathew Segovia, Kayla Velazquez

Delaware Valley Regional HS, Brother Trucker” from WORKING, featuring Michael Bryant Kessie, Dakota Krouse, Maddy Clyde, Mark Westling, Gabi Pfefferte, Tori Kelly

Ocean County Vocational Technical Schools-Grunin Performing Arts Academy, ”Sing” from A CHORUS LINE, featuring William Einbinder, Gabriella DeBenedict

Pinelands Regional HS, ”Secrets” from THE ADDAMS FAMILY, featuring Nadia Vito, Lily Targett

Ridge HS, Macavity” from CATS, featuring Elisabeth Schmitt, Eileen Brady, Eve Armstrong, Samantha Rascio, Morgan Connell, Gabriella Hairston, Jordan Perla – WINNER

Summit HS, ”King of New York” from NEWSIES, featuring Sydney Veloso, Hope Pierotti, Avery Johnson, Anna Sullivan, Theo Errig, Ethan Engmann

Union HS, ”Forever Yours” from ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, featuring Khadijah Sankoh, Makayla Michel

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE BY A LARGE ENSEMBLE NOMINEES

Columbia HS, “You Can’t Stop the Beat” from HAIRSPRAY

Delaware Valley Regional HS, All the Livelong Day” from WORKING

Madison HS, ”On My Way” from VIOLET

Ridge HS,  “The Jellicle Ball” from CATS

St. Peter’s Preparatory School, “Become” from EDGES: A SONG CYCLE

Summit HS, “Seize the Day” from NEWSIES – WINNER

Union HS, “Mama Will Provide” from ONCE ON THIS ISLAND

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD NOMINEES

Atlantic County Institute of Technology, Dominic Roberts, Dance Captain – WINNER

Bridgewater-Raritan HS, Liz Driscoll, Dance Captain

Bridgewater Raritan HS, Sophia Pedroso, Stage Manager – WINNER

Delaware Valley Regional HS, Simon Kinderman, Designer: Cinematography/Production/Pit – WINNER

Immaculate Heart Academy, Grace Capeless, Assistant Director/Film Editor – WINNER

José Martí STEM Academy, Felix Tavarez, Assistant Choreographer

José Martí STEM Academy, Clarisse Moreno, Kathy Bernal, Oliver Villalta, Writing Team – WINNER

Morristown HS Lorelei Eck, Student Director

Mount Saint Dominic Academy, Hema Davalla & Sophia Garske, Production Stage Managers

Mount Saint Dominic Academy, Kiera Carbone, Ava Ciauro, Lynn Jean-Baptiste, Sound Board Operators

Pascack Hills HS, Valentina Cannao, Scenic Designer & Assistant Director

Piscataway HS, Melly Merida, Scenic Illustrations – WINNER

Randolph HS, Kathleen Brennan, Christine Hamilton, Jilliane Najera, Digital Designers

Ridge HS, Morgan Beatty, Student, Director – WINNER

Summit HS, Emma MacPherson, Costume Crew Head – WINNER

Toms River HS North, Archie Bird, Tech Crew – WINNER

Voorhees HS, Owen Tabor, Choreographer/Dance Captain

Westfield HS, Ben Zakharenko, Sound Designer – WINNER

Westfield HS, Josh Saxon, Scenic Designer / Asst. Technical Director

OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AWARD NOMINEES

Elizabeth Volpe, Atlantic County Institute of Technology

Pete Gambino, Cherry Hill HS East

Michael Penna, Collier HS

John Giresi, Fair Lawn HS – WINNER

Jim DeVivo, Holmdel HS

Blake Spence, Madison HS

Cindy Dwyer, Mater Dei Prep – WINNER

Jodi Bosch, Mount Olive HS

Jensyn Modero, Mount Saint Dominic Academy

Bart DiFrancia, Pinelands Regional HS

Anne Poyner, Summit HS – WINNER

Steven Collins, Union County Academy for Performing Arts

Nancy Reynolds, Voorhees HS

THEATER FOR EVERYONE INCLUSION AND ACCESS AWARD NOMINEES

Collier HS

Madison HS – WINNER

Piscataway HS

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June 28–July 23, 2021, at Paper Mill Playhouse and Paper Mill Studios in Milburn, New Jersey.

Paper Mill Playhouse announces auditions for the institution’s prestigious Summer Musical Theater Conservatory for young artists to be held this summer.  Paper Mill Playhouse welcomes audition videos from students 10–18 years old seeking a coveted spot in the competitive conservatory.  The program culminates in a video presentation titled, New Voices of 2021!  This original program will premiere online in September.
The 2021 Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Conservatory will take place June 28–July 23, 2021, at Paper Mill Playhouse and the Paper Mill Studios in Milburn, New Jersey.  Students will be offered a hybrid schedule of live training three days a week and alternating with virtual instruction two days a week. Classes will be modest in size with all current CDC guidelines and state mandated protocols in place for live instruction.
Auditions for the Summer Conservatory are by video submission only. There will be no live auditions scheduled.  For audition video guidelines, submission instructions and other important information on tuition and available scholarships, visit our website at Paper Mill Summer Conservatory Auditions.

          
The Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Conservatory is a program of rigorous study led by Paper Mill’s professional artistic staff. Students have the opportunity to enhance their individual performance potential while developing a broad base of theater experience and knowledge. Students participate in intensive classes including musical theater performance, acting, dance, private voice lessons, monologue coaching, and improvisation, while also attending guest workshops taught by professional actors, directors, and casting agents.  Time during every instructional day is devoted to rehearsing and filming the virtual New Voices performance that debuts September 2021. Key to the curriculum is the development of self-discipline, respect, and a commitment to excellence that will serve these young artists throughout their lives.

As one of the nation’s leading theaters, Paper Mill Playhouse has a well-earned reputation for launching both performers and shows for the Broadway industry. Since its inception in 1996, the Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Conservatory and the New Voices Concert have ignited the careers of many notable performers.  Conservatory alumni include Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway (Les Misérables), Tony Award winners Laura Benanti (Gypsy), Nikki M. James (The Book of Mormon), Ali Stoker (Oklahoma!), Tony nominee Rob McClure (Chaplin), Jelani Remy (Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations), Shanice Williams, star of NBC’s The Wiz Live! and Olivier Award nominee Jared Gertner (The Book of Mormon).  For the full list of notable alumni, click here.
The New Voices performance is the culmination of the four-week program. Also appearing will be numerous winners and nominees of the 2021 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards presented by Investors Foundation, who win scholarships to attend the conservatory.

The summer of 2020 saw the introduction of online classes, and despite everyone’s desire to be in studio, the virtual conservatory soared and enrolled students from across the country.

A parent in Colorado shared, “We want to thank you for an amazing summer with the Paper Mill Conservatory.  Our son is absolutely LOVING his time with Paper Mill this summer!  You have all done such a marvelous job making the Conservatory so personable and illuminating for the students–truly, a life-changing experience. Your commitment to making the Conservatory happen provided a transformative experience for our son, who not only grew as an artist but also created incredible memories and friendships. You and the other Conservatory teachers & staff were amazing–personable in your interaction with the students and directly impactful on their artistic development.  You should be so proud of what you all accomplished in this unprecedented summer!”

The Summer Professional Training Programs and New Voices are supported by Investors Foundation.  Paper Mill Playhouse Education and Outreach are proudly sponsored by The Goren Family and The Harmony Helper App.

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Rising Star Awards 2017

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc on area high schools, causing rolling school building closures, split attendance schedules and social distancing restrictions, leaving many New Jersey high schools unable to produce a traditional musical with a live audience. Theater educators, however, are finding new ways to teach students remotely and are developing exploring how to create musical product through virtual rehearsals and performances.

With this in mind, Paper Mill is launching an abridged Rising Star Awards program that preserves essential elements that serve both students and teachers and will continue to provide a meaningful recognition platform for the school community. Paper Mill will welcome video submissions of student performances for a shorter list of categories: Outstanding Performance by an Actor, Actress, Small Ensemble and Large Ensemble; the Student Achievement Awards for non-performance contributions, the Rising Star Scholarships for graduating seniors and the “Theater for Everyone” Inclusion and Access Award. A new honor, the Outstanding Educator Award, has been added. More details about the 2021 Rising Star program are available by clicking here.

To participate in the program and submit students for awards, New Jersey high schools must first complete the registration process. Registration is accepted on a first-come, first-served basis for the first 100 schools that respond. The deadline to register is January 15, 2021, at 5:00PM, and forms are available now online at 2021 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards Registration.

The final nominees will be announced in May, and the 2021 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards Presented by the Investors Foundation ceremony will take place Monday, June 7, at 7:00PM.
In addition to recognizing performances, Paper Mill Playhouse will award scholarships as well. Five $1,000 cash scholarships will be given to outstanding students who plan to continue studying theater performance, theater education or technical theater in college. Through a partnership with the New Jersey Theatre Alliance and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the 2021 Rising Star “Theater for Everyone” Inclusion and Access Award provides $1,000 to a participating school in recognition of excellence in the promotion and practice of creative inclusion of students and adults with disabilities as performers, designers, musicians and production staff. This award may also recognize and reward a school that takes steps to ensure their performances are accessible to audiences with disabilities.

New to the Rising Star Awards in 2021 is the Outstanding Educator Award, which will shine the spotlight on an educator who has been nominated by their home school for distinguished service to their students and theater programs. A $1,000 prize will be granted to the recipient’s school theater program.

Finally, students who receive a Final Nomination in the Outstanding Performance by an Actor or Actress categories will receive a scholarship to attend Paper Mill Playhouse’s competitive professional training program – the Summer Musical Theater Conservatory. Conservatory students participate in advanced-level classes in singing, acting, dance and other disciplines, and will appear in the New Voices of 2021 showcase performance.

Paper Mill Playhouse Education & Outreach are generously sponsored by The Goren Family & the Harmony Helper App.

Rising Star scholarships are made possible by Ruth Bedford in memory of Jane Burgio, Walt Santner in honor of Janet Sovey, and the Douglas Michael Krueger Scholarship Fund Trust.

The post Rising Star Awards Guidelines appeared first on Paper Mill Playhouse.

Directed by MARK S. HOEBEE
Starring
KATHRYN ALLISON, KATE BALDWIN, NATALIE CORTEZ, JOHN TREACY EGAN, MAURICIO MARTINEZ, ROB McCLURE, KYLE TAYLOR PARKER, MAMIE PARRIS, HAYLEY PODSCHUN, NICHOLAS RODRIGUEZ, GRAHAM ROWAT, CHRISTOPHER SIEBER, ELENA SHADDOW, and REMA WEBB

Streaming Dec 19, 2020–Jan 1, 2021
Delivered virtually from the Paper Mill Stage

SOME ENCHANTED EVENING: THE SONGS OF RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN

Directed by MARK S. HOEBEE
Starring
BELINDA ALLYN, ASHLEY BLANCHET, DONNA ENGLISH, NICHOLAS RODRIGUEZ, and BILLY HARRIGAN TIGHE

Streaming Feb 13–26, 2021
Delivered virtually from the Paper Mill Stage

(October 13, 2020) — Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Producing Artistic Director, Michael Stotts- Managing Director) has announced the casts for Sing in a New Year! and Some Enchanted Evening: The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, the first two productions to be produced on the Paper Mill stage since the pandemic shut down the theater in March.

Sing in a New Year! will bring a roster of Broadway-seasoned Paper Mill family home for the holidays to perform seasonal favorites just in time for the New Year. The intimate cabaret lineup, directed by Producing Artistic Director Mark S. Hoebee, includes solos and duets by Kathryn Allison (PMP: New Voices; Broadway: Aladdin, Wicked, Company), Kate Baldwin (PMP: Can-Can, Guys and Dolls; Broadway: Hello, Dolly!, Finian’s Rainbow, Big Fish), Natalie Cortez (PMP: Anita in West Side Story; Broadway: West Side Story, A Chorus Line), John Treacy Egan (PMP: Lend Me a Tenor, The Producers, Oliver!; Broadway: My Fair Lady, The Producers, The Little Mermaid), Mauricio Martinez (PMP: Unmasked; Broadway: On Your Feet!), Rob McClure (PMP: Honeymoon in Vegas, Carousel; Broadway: Chaplin, Beetlejuice, Mrs. Doubtfire), Kyle Taylor Parker (PMP: My Very Own British Invasion; Broadway: Kinky Boots, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; Off Broadway: Smokey Joe’s Cafe), Mamie Parris (PMP: Unmasked; Broadway: Cats, School of Rock), Hayley Podschun (PMP: Peter Pan, Holiday Inn; Broadway: Chaplin, Something Rotten!), Nicholas Rodriguez (PMP: Holiday Inn; Broadway: Tarzan), Graham Rowat (Broadway: Sunset Boulevard, Mamma Mia!, Beauty and the Beast), Christopher Sieber (PMP: Cinderella, Annie; Broadway: The Prom, Matilda, Company), Elena Shaddow (PMP: The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins, A Christmas Story; Broadway: The Visit, La Cage aux Folles), and Rema Webb (PMP: Unmasked; Broadway: The Color Purple, The Book of Mormon, Escape to Margaritaville). Meghann Zervoulis (Broadway’s The Prom, Mean Girls, West Side Story; Paper Mill’s Mary Poppins, A Christmas Story, New Voices) serves as music director.

Next up will be Some Enchanted Evening: The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, directed by Mark S. Hoebee and starring some of theater’s greatest voices including Belinda Allyn (PMP: Beauty and the Beast, West Side Story; Broadway: Allegiance), Ashley Blanchet (PMP: Cinderella; Broadway: Frozen, Beautiful), Donna English (PMP: Beauty and the Beast, Lend Me a Tenor, The Sound of Music, and many more; Broadway: Living on Love, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Lend Me a Tenor), Nicholas Rodriguez (PMP: Holiday Inn; Broadway: Tarzan) and Billy Harrigan Tighe (PMP: Cinderella; Broadway: Pippin).

Paper Mill Playhouse’s 2020–2021 season is proudly sponsored by Investors Bank. Paper Mill Playhouse education and outreach programs are proudly sponsored by The Goren Family & the Harmony Helper App.

Sing in a New Year! and Some Enchanted Evening: The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein are available now exclusively as part of Paper Mill’s 2020–2021 subscription package of seven shows for $275 per person.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE’S 2020–2021 SEASON

LIVE FROM THE WEST SIDE: THE WOMEN OF BROADWAY

PATTI LUPONE
Streamed Live on Oct 24, 2020, at 8PM
Available to stream on demand for 72 hours after the live presentation

LAURA BENANTI
Streamed Live on Nov 14, 2020, at 8PM
Available to stream on demand for 72 hours after the live presentation

VANESSA WILLIAMS
Streamed Live on Dec 5, 2020, at 8PM
Available to stream on demand for 72 hours after the live presentation

This series of live concert events showcases Broadway’s absolute best and brightest talents sharing beloved show tunes, lesser-known gems, and heartwarming tales, plus a live Q&A with the stars.

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SING IN A NEW YEAR!
Directed by Mark S. Hoebee
Streaming Dec 19, 2020–Jan 1, 2021
Delivered Virtually from the Paper Mill Stage
Subscriber Exclusive!

Paper Mill Playhouse’s popular summertime outdoor Brookside Cabaret comes inside and onto the Paper Mill stage for a very special concert presentation! Over a dozen popular Paper Mill performers, directed by Producing Artistic Director Mark S. Hoebee, will sing a unique selection of seasonal favorites just in time to ring in the new year.

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SOME ENCHANTED EVENING: THE SONGS OF RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN
Music by Richard Rodgers
Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II
Concept by Jeffrey B. Moss
For Jerry Kravat Entertainment Services Inc.
Directed by Mark S. Hoebee
Streaming Feb 13–26, 2021
Delivered Virtually from the Paper Mill Stage
Subscriber Exclusive!

This stunning collection of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved compositions will shine the spotlight on five magnificent Paper Mill singers in a glorious parade of hits from Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I, Oklahoma!, The Sound of Music, and more. Paper Mill’s own Mark S. Hoebee directs.

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PETE ’N’ KEELY
Book by James Hindman
Music by Patrick Brady
Lyrics by Mark Waldrop
Directed by Mark Waldrop
Dates TBA*
Subscriber Exclusive!

Staged as a live taping of a 1968 television special that reunites a divorced singing duo, this kitschy spoof had New York critics singing its praises. As Pete and Keely stroll down memory lane reprising songs from their days of stardom, they take “unscripted” swipes at each other that dredge up hilarious moments from their turbulent past. This charming musical features unforgettable renditions of the era’s popular favorites such as “Fever,” “Bésame Mucho,” and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” as well as original songs in the spirit of the times. Mark Waldrop (When Pigs Fly, Bette Midler’s Divine Miss Millennium Tour, Paper Mill’s Gypsy and Little Shop of Horrors) directs.

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BEEHIVE: THE ’60S MUSICAL
Created by Larry Gallagher
Directed & Choreographed by JoAnn M. Hunter
Dates TBA*
Subscriber Exclusive!

Big hairdos and even bigger voices command the stage in this tuneful tribute to women who rock—the girl groups that made their mark on the music of the ’60s. Featuring such hits as “My Boyfriend’s Back,” “Son of a Preacher Man,” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” Beehive chronicles the dramatic transformations of a volatile decade, told from the perspective of six young women who live through it. JoAnn M. Hunter (Broadway’s School of Rock, Paper Mill’s Unmasked and Cinderella) directs and choreographs.

*Performance dates for Pete ’n’ Keely and Beehive are to be announced, in the hopes that limited audiences (subscribers only) may be invited to safely return to the theater by late spring or summer 2021.

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Note: A livestream option will be available for all shows this season and may become the only possibility if reconvening live audiences is not feasible.
Program and artists are subject to change.
Paper Mill’s 2020–2021 season will be an exclusive subscriber season and all 7 events are available now for $275 per person.

The post Casting Announced for First Two Productions of the Season appeared first on Paper Mill Playhouse.

From May through November 2020, Paper Mill Playhouse produced and streamed 26 weekly episodes of Babbling by the Brook hosted by Producing Artistic Director Mark S. Hoebee. His lighthearted virtual conversations with a star-studded roster of Paper Mill veteran performers, writers, directors, and more gives audiences behind-the-scenes insights into past and future productions as well as various elements of the creative process. You can watch the entire catalog of episodes on Paper Mill’s YouTube channel.

BABBLING BY THE BROOK—FULL YOUTUBE PLAYLIST

EPISODE GUIDE

1 Catching up with Tony Award Nominee Rob McClure
2 Clue Preview with Director Casey Hushion & Playwright Sandy Rustin 
3 Catching up with Leading Ladies Donna English & Elena Shaddow 
4 Dreamgirls Reunion with Angela Robinson, LaTonya Holmes & Sharon Wilkins
5 Creative Conversation with Director-Choreographer JoAnn M. Hunter
6 Cinderella Reunion with Ashley Blanchet & Billy Harrigan Tighe 
7 Catching up with Tony Award Winner Ali Stroker
8 Creative Conversation with Tony-Nominated Director-Choreographer Denis Jones
9 Fight Directors Rick Sordelet & Christian Kelly-Sordelet with Actor & Conservatory Alum Collin Kelly-Sordelet 
10 Creative Conversation with Tony-Winning Director-Choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler 
11 Animal Chat with Trainer Bill Berloni
12 Creative Conversation with Music Director Meghann Zervoulis 
13 Team Swing: Brittany Conigatti & Willie Dee 
14 Bandstand & Bruce Writers Richard Oberacker & Robert Taylor
15 Catching up with Tony Award Nominee Kate Baldwin 
16 Creative Conversation with Casting Director Rebecca Scholl 
17 West Side Story Reunion with Belinda Allyn, Natalie Cortez & Matt Doyle 
18 Creative Conversation with Tony-Nominated Scenic Designer David Korins 
19 Star Stage Managers Andrea Cibelli & Beverly Jenkins 
20 Catching up with Leading Funnymen David Josefsberg & Tally Sessions 
21 Alex Brightman & Drew Gasparini on It’s Kind of a Funny Story 
22 The Wanderer Preview with Kenneth Ferrone and Charles Messina
23 Catching up with Don Stephenson
24 Catching up with Gordon Greenberg
25 Pete ’n’ Keely Preview with Director and Lyricist Mark Waldrop
26 Catching up and a Live from the West Side Preview with Laura Benanti

The post Babbling by the Brook appeared first on Paper Mill Playhouse.

In response to the coronavirus national emergency and statewide school, business and institution closures, dozens of New Jersey high schools participating in the Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards were forced to cancel their spring musical. Of the 94 schools on the roster, over two-thirds canceled their shows. In the face of this, the theater has canceled the awards program and ceremony which would have been the milestone 25th annual gathering.

The Rising Star Awards will not go on, but to acknowledge the passion that New Jersey students have for musical theater, Paper Mill will present a virtual celebration of the 2020 participating schools with Rising Star Honors presented by the Investors Foundation, a montage of school video submissions of the shows that happened, or didn’t happen. Schools will share highlights of their performances, rehearsals or create new performances by company members.

Rising Star Honors presented by the Investors Foundation will premiere on Monday, June 1, 2020 at 7PM on Paper Mill Playhouse’s Facebook page.

Joining us is our special host, Rising Star winner, Broadway performer and Olivier nominee, Jared Gertner, along with Rising Star alumni from across the nation!   Since their inception in 1996, the Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theater have ignited the careers of many notable performers, all of whom attended high school in New Jersey.  Many Paper Mill Rising Star nominees and winners are now working professionally and have won esteemed industry awards while working in theater and film. Along with Mr. Gertner, early Paper Mill Rising Star nominees and winners include Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway (Les Misérables), Tony Award winners Laura Benanti (Gypsy) and Nikki M. James (The Book of Mormon), Tony nominee Rob McClure (Chaplin, Mrs. Doubtfire), and Shanice Williams, star of NBC’s The Wiz Live! Click here for a full list of notable alumni.

“Even though the current pandemic has impacted the Rising Star Awards program, it has not dampened students’ interest and enthusiasm for musical theater. These student performers and theater technicians have worked so hard and it is wonderful to have the opportunity to recognize their talent in a unique way,” said Investors Bank Chairman and CEO Kevin Cummings. “Investors Bank is proud to be a part of this program that acknowledges the students and the high school theater programs in which they participate.”

Rising Star Awards–Presented by the Investors Foundation is generously supported by The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation.
Paper Mill Playhouse Education & Outreach are generously sponsored by The Goren Family & the Harmony Helper App.
Paper Mill Playhouse programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Paper Mill Playhouse is grateful for generous contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals.

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE, a not-for-profit arts organization under the direction of Mark S. Hoebee (Producing Artistic Director) and Michael Stotts (Managing Director) and recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award, is one of the country’s leading regional theaters. Paper Mill Playhouse programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Paper Mill Playhouse is a member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, the Council of Stock Theatres, and the New Jersey Theatre Alliance.

The post Paper Mill Playhouse Announces Rising Star Honors appeared first on Paper Mill Playhouse.

James Fakult, Chair of Paper Mill’s Board of Trustees, says, “Paper Mill Playhouse is deeply grateful for the Harmony Helper app and the Goren family’s visionary support of our arts education and outreach programs. Paper Mill champions nearly 40,000 students each year with transformative education programs, which are at the heart of our not-for-profit organization.”

Harmony Helper®, the premier app that provides singers the convenience and control of a 24/7 digital rehearsal room anytime, anywhere, announced the full launch on October 29 of the first and only product that adds customizable sheet music scanning to simplify practicing and help singers deliver their best performance. The Harmony Helper app allows singers that cannot afford a vocal coach or rehearsal space to develop the skill levels they need to make the most of their time in the spotlight. It levels the playing field for amateurs and pros alike.

“Paper Mill feels a keen responsibility to ensure children should have access to theater’s life-changing opportunities, regardless of economic, physical, or developmental challenges. Paper Mill responds with high-quality arts education, cultural partnerships, and outreach – impacting teens, aspiring artists, and families of children with autism and other cognitive and developmental disabilities,”  stated Michael Stotts, Paper Mill’s Managing Director.

Based on patented technology, the app is the first comprehensive, easy-to-use learning tool that features accurate real-time feedback, vocal part customization, pitch tracking, record/playback, and vocal part volume control.

Harmony Helper’s new customizable sheet music scanning feature is the first and only of its kind. Users simply upload or take a photo of their sheet music. Harmony Helper then uses Optical Music Recognition (OMR) technology to auto-generate vocal parts. The user then creates their own custom vocal part by answering a few questions about the song. The song is then translated into an easy-to-read piano roll format with accompaniment and flexible part volume controls, giving singers the ability to isolate specific vocal parts and sound while practicing. This unique feature makes all music available to practice the moment a singer is ready to begin learning. For singers who are just learning or struggle with reading sheet music, this patented technology eliminates the friction to allow the aspiring singer to practice. Performers no longer need to be dependent on scheduling time with accompanists to play and record music, and the real-time feedback feature takes away the stress of scheduling with a coach to quickly prepare for an audition or performance.

“Harmony Helper is an indispensable educational resource that will change how every individual and music group approaches learning music,” said Mark S. Hoebee, Producing Artistic Director at Paper Mill Playhouse. “Harmony Helper solves a myriad of logistical issues facing performers and beginners while giving students the confidence they need to master their music. I consider this app a true game-changer for the arts industry.”

Harmony Helper’s transformative features include:
• Sheet Music scanning/conversion: Allows singers to simply take a photo of any sheet music or upload directly into the app. Using OMR technology, written music is converted to MusicXML and MIDI so it can be viewed in a piano roll format, heard, and rehearsed.
• Vocal part customization: Singers create their custom vocal part for a more personalized experience.
• Real-time feedback: Patented pitch tracker accurately visualizes the singer’s pitch and timing in real-time, calibrated to their abilities and level of expertise.
• Vocal Part Volume Controls: Hear the song in a multitude of different ways using volume controls for vocal parts, metronome, and accompaniment.
• Guided Approach to Learning: Patented 5-Step Approach to Learning and Holding Harmonies equips singers with the necessary tools to tackle even the most complex songs, so they can walk into every live performance or rehearsal confidently prepared.
• Easy Record and Playback: Listen to a song anytime and anywhere, then step into a quiet room to record/practice. Then listen to the recording take alone or with other vocal parts.

In the coming months, Harmony Helper will be announcing the general release of its group sharing features. The patented technology will enable music directors, coaches, and teachers to seamlessly share songbooks and instructions with performers and group members. Performers will receive their music via the app and can easily isolate their part so they can practice on their own time, not just when the director or accompanist is available.

Harmony Helper is now available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

HARMONY HELPER is a singer’s best friend and the only app that utilizes patented technologies to provide singers with the convenience and control of a 24/7 digital rehearsal room anytime, anywhere, regardless of skill level. Harmony Helper improves singing accuracy and builds confidence, helping singers and performance groups deliver their best performances. The innovative learning tool is easy-to-use and complete with the most comprehensive list of features, including part customization, sheet music scanning, real-time feedback, vocal part volume control and a novel 5-step approach to mastering a song. Founded in 2017 by CEO and founder Andrew Goren, Harmony Helper is comprised of a passionate team of expert technologists, seasoned entrepreneurs, and well-respected Broadway performers and performance experts. For more information, visit https://harmonyhelper.com.

Harmony Helper and the Harmony Helper logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Harmony Helper. All other product and company names and marks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners and are mentioned for identification.

The post The Goren Family & the New Harmony Helper App Become Inaugural Sponsor for Paper Mill Playhouse Education/Outreach Programs appeared first on Paper Mill Playhouse.

Find Tickets

Paper Mill Playhouse has selected students to be a part of the theater’s prestigious Summer Musical Theater Conservatory for 2018. Members of the competitive conservatory who earned coveted spots in the Senior (ages 15–18), Junior Plus (ages 13–14), and Junior companies (ages 10–12) are directed and choreographed by Paper Mill Playhouse’s professional artistic staff in a fully produced, original concert titled, New Voices of 2018: From Sea to Shining Sea! The concert is a culmination of the five-week conservatory program. Also appearing are numerous winners and nominees of the 2018 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards presented by the Investors Foundation, who won scholarships to attend the Conservatory. The Summer Musical Theater Conservatory and New Voices are generously supported by the Investors Foundation.

Performances of New Voices of 2018: From Sea to Shining Sea will be held on July 27 at 7:30PM and July 28 at 1:30PM & 7:30PM at Memorial Auditorium at Montclair State University, 1 Normal Ave, Montclair, NJ. Tickets range in price from $25 to $45. Tickets may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, online by clicking here, or by visiting the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn.

The Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Conservatory is a program of rigorous study allowing students to enhance their individual performance potential while developing a broad base of theater experience and knowledge. Students participate in intensive classes including musical theater performance, acting, dance, and improvisation, while also attending guest workshops led by professional actors, directors, and casting agents. The final weeks are devoted to rehearsals for the New Voices Concert, performed annually by the conservatory’s trained students. The Conservatory offers the unique opportunity for gifted and talented young performers to work at their own level, challenge themselves to achieve new goals, and learn new skills. Key to the curriculum is for the participants to develop self-discipline, respect, and a commitment to excellence that will serve these young artists throughout their lives.

Many of the students from Paper Mill Playhouse’s Conservatory have gone on to appear on Broadway, in regional theater productions, in film and on television.

Conservatory Alumni include:

Anne Hathaway – Twelfth Night, Film: Les Misérables (2013 Academy Award Winner), Rachel Getting Married (2009 Academy Award & Golden Globe nominee), Get Smart, Brokeback Mountain, The Devil Wears Prada, & Disney’s The Princess Diaries
Laura Benanti – Broadway: She Loves Me, Gypsy (2008 Tony Award winner), Into the Woods, The Wedding Singer, Swing!
Julia Knitel – Broadway: Beautiful: the Carole King Musical (u/s Carole King); Bye Bye Birdie
Robert McClure – Broadway: Something Rotten, Honeymoon in Vegas, Chaplin, Avenue Q
Shanice Williams- NBC’s The Wiz Live!
Joshua Dela Cruz – Broadway’s Disney’s Aladdin (Aladdin Understudy)
Ali Stroker – Broadway: Spring Awakening, Oxygen’s The Glee Project: Season 2; Paper Mill’s 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Olive Ostrovsky)
Nikki M. James – Broadway: Les Misérables, Book of Mormon (2011 Tony Award winner), All Shook Up
Avery Espiritu: Broadway: The King and I
James Ignacio – Broadway: The King and I
Alex Drier – Broadway: Finding Neverland, Assembled Parties
Daisy Hobbs – Broadway: Disney’s Aladdin
Matthew Scott – Broadway: Jersey Boys, A Catered Affair (Ralph), Sondheim on Sondheim
Collin Kelly-Sordelet – Broadway: The Last Ship (Young Gideon)
Jared Gertner – 2014 Olivier Award nominee West End, Broadway & National Tour of The Book Of Mormon (Elder Cunningham)
Veronica J. Kuehn – Broadway: Mamma Mia!, Xanadu; Off Broadway: Avenue Q
Neil McCaffrey – Broadway: Mary Poppins (Michael Banks), Bye, Bye Birdie (Randolph Macafee), Billy Elliot (Michael)
Monette McKay – Broadway: Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark, Memphis, Mamma Mia!
Constantine Rousouli – Broadway: Hairspray (Link), Ghost the Musical, Wicked
Jonathan Schwartz – Broadway’s Disney’s Aladdin (Omar)
Elizabeth Egan Gillies – Nickelodeon’s Victorious; Broadway: 13! The Musical
Lael Van Keuran – Broadway: Sister Act
Matt Ban – Broadway: Rock of Ages (Dennis)
Connor Buckley – Star of Fox-TV’s Surviving Jack with Chris Meloni (role of “Jack Dunlevy”)

CLICK HERE FOR IMAGES & HEADSHOTS OF STUDENTS SORTED BY TOWN

2018 CONSERVATORY STUDENTS BY TOWN

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE, a not-for-profit arts organization under the direction of Mark S. Hoebee (Producing Artistic Director) and recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award, is one of the country’s leading regional theaters. Paper Mill Playhouse programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Paper Mill Playhouse is a member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, the Council of Stock Theatres, and the New Jersey Theatre Alliance.

The post New Voices of 2018: From Sea To Shining Sea appeared first on Paper Mill Playhouse.