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Top picks in New Jersey

Art and performing arts

Performing arts venues that offer a real show without the stiff, formal atmosphere of a traditional theater.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
All Children’s Art Center of NJ - A non-profit organization image 1
All Children’s Art Center of NJ - A non-profit organization image 2
All Children’s Art Center of NJ - A non-profit organization image 3
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Small venue offers art and dance activities with a family-like atmosphere created by staff and children. Kids engage in diverse projects like pottery, tie-dye, and theater, keeping energy lively and creative. Events include interactive parties and showcases that highlight children's artistic growth.

Canvas painting classes include clear instruction and hands-on projects like pottery painting and tie-dye shirts. Activities also feature Picasso-inspired pieces, collages, and chalk art, with a dance floor and games available for breaks.

Programs include musical theater, theater camp, and art classes for kids. Teachers in the musical theater program are phenomenal. Events like parents night out and kids night out offer extra activities.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly, my daughter couldn't wait to return!"

"I loved seeing the kids excited to show off their creative art projects."

"The kids loved the plays and art projects, asking to stay longer."

Good to know

1

The camp offers a variety of art projects like clay, slime, and tie dye.

2

Birthday party packages include a dance session and art activities.

3

The center provides affordable summer camps for children.

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Avenel Performing Arts Center image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate contemporary theater with comfortable, roomy seating and angled rows offering clear views from every seat. The space features top-notch acoustics and a friendly, pleasant atmosphere without rowdy crowds. An attached bar and dining options add convenience for pre- or post-show gatherings.

Top notch acoustics create a clear sound experience for performances. Shows range from Japanese cultural-themed to comedy, with a bar inside allowing drinks in the theater.

An intimate and comfortable theater hosts a variety of interesting musical groups and cultural shows. A bar inside lets patrons bring drinks into the theater, enhancing the dinner theater experience.

People are saying

"I loved the theater and enjoyed the comedy shows."

"There was plenty of parking available."

"The Performing Art staff was so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking available at the venue.

2

The attached pub and pizzeria offer convenient dining before or after shows.

3

You can bring your own beverages to your seats, as long as the lids are on.

03
South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) image 1

Small theater space offers intimate seating with excellent acoustics and comfortable seats. Performances feel close and personal, creating a cozy atmosphere where every seat has a great view. Venue includes a wine bar and hosts diverse shows like jazz, rock, and comedy.

Performing arts venue offers well-executed productions like the Little Mermaid. The arts center serves as a community hub with a convenient location and a nice atmosphere.

Shows feature intimate atmosphere with all seats close to the stage and comfortable seating offering good legroom. Performances include hilarious comedies and well-received musicals with clear sound quality.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue where all seats offer a great view."

"The performing arts venue felt intimate, with great sound and sight lines."

"The art here feels intimate and the venue offers a great view."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and located right next door on Saturdays and Sundays.

2

The ticket prices at SOPAC are well below those of other New Jersey venues.

3

Concessions are reasonably priced during events.

04
Jersey Shore Arts Center image 1

Historic building repurposed from an old school hosts theater, dance, and art with an intimate, cozy atmosphere. The space features a lovely, clean theater and a welcoming lobby for mingling during intermissions. BYOB cafe and collaborative artist spaces add to the creative, community-focused vibe.

A beautiful and creative space hosts arts shows, plays, and exhibitions. It offers introduction to drawing classes and presentations of arts work.

A lovely intimate theater sits inside a beautiful historic building that hosts plays, dance, and local bands. Community theater and murder mystery shows happen regularly in this clean, charming space.

People are saying

"It's a gorgeous, historic building for performing arts."

"I found the shows here to be fun, interactive, and hilarious."

"It's a beautiful and creative place for art shows."

Good to know

1

The venue hosts various events, including concerts and theater performances.

2

Seating can be tight; consider arriving early for better options.

3

The venue is BYO, so bring your own snacks and drinks.

05
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) image 1

Beautiful, modernized theater with brilliant acoustics and comfortable seating creates an intimate, classy atmosphere. Spacious auditorium offers clear stage views and an artsy, old-fashioned vibe. Onsite amenities include multiple bars and a restaurant serving quality drinks and pre-show food.

A state-of-the-art facility hosts a wide range of performances from the Symphony Orchestra to comedians. The venue is beautifully designed and well maintained, offering outstanding service throughout events.

Beautiful, modern theater with amazing seating and a well managed performance space. Shows range from comedy to dance and Indian musical compositions, with a clean and classy atmosphere.

People are saying

"Parking available was easy to find with many options nearby."

"The performing arts staff here felt like family, so helpful and friendly."

"The art here is stunning and beautifully designed."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 for events, with options available across the street.

2

ADA guests should arrive early for personal escort assistance.

3

The main floor bathrooms may close before the show ends, so plan accordingly.

06
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) image 1

Historic theater offers intimate seating with excellent acoustics and classic design. Performances feel special in a venue that blends old-time charm with modern sound and lighting. The space hosts a vibrant arts community with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

A beautiful old movie theater repurposed as a performing arts center hosts a variety of shows, including musicals like A Little Night Music. A vibrant arts community thrives here with consistently engaging performances.

Historic theater offers outstanding acoustics and a great sound system that enhance every performance. The venue features a beautiful design blending classic and modern elements, making live music and opera feel special.

People are saying

"This historic theater is a beautiful, cozy gem for performing arts."

"Parking available is plentiful and free nearby."

"I found the performing arts center to be beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking at UCPAC can be difficult; consider using Uber for convenience.

2

Free parking is available a few blocks away from the theater.

3

The venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts and theater performances.

07
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center image 1

Modern performing arts theater offers intimate seating with excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. The venue includes multiple lounges and bars, including a rooftop area with couches and heat lamps. The atmosphere is generally calm and safe, with a crowd that can feel subdued during events.

Events feature modern sound and lighting systems that create an immersive experience. Workshops and educational initiatives support community engagement and nurture future artists.

Modern sound and lighting systems create an immersive experience for concerts and plays. The venue hosts a variety of performances including comedy shows and community events, plus workshops to support future artists.

People are saying

"Parking was surprisingly easy and convenient to find."

"The performing arts seating is so comfortable and offers a great view."

"The sound and lighting systems here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking garage across the street is easy to find and costs $20.

2

Restrooms are accessible by elevator for convenience.

3

The seating arrangement is comfortable, though tight for tall people.

08
Bergen Performing Arts Center image 1
Performing arts theater

Historical 1920s theater offers a cozy, intimate setting with comfortable seating and clear sound quality. The space feels spacious yet close, ensuring every seat has a good view. Renovations blend classic charm with modern lighting and sound equipment.

A versatile space hosts performances like ballet Don Quixote with upgraded renovations enhancing the experience. The center also supports arts education for the community.

Well maintained theater offers good sightlines with every seat feeling close to the stage. Performances range from plays and school shows to concerts, all presented with strong production quality and a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a great local theater for live shows close to home."

"Parking available is plentiful and convenient."

"The art staff here is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; arrive early for the best spots.

2

There is no elevator, so be prepared for stairs.

3

Only one restroom is available for the entire venue.

09
Count Basie Center for the Arts image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. Every seat provides a great view of the stage, enhancing the live music experience. The venue combines beautiful architecture with a cozy atmosphere ideal for shows.

Gorgeous artwork and sculpting decorate the walls, creating a rich visual experience. The venue hosts musical performances and stand-up comedy, along with strong theater arts programs for kids.

Beautiful, lovingly restored vintage theater with good acoustics and a clean, well-kept space. Staff go out of their way to make theater goers comfortable in this great small theater.

People are saying

"I found the theater to be beautiful and enchanting."

"I found the venue to be a great small place for live shows."

"The architecture here is beautiful, with gorgeous artwork and sculpting."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find; arrive early for the best spots.

2

Ticket prices can total over $200 after fees for popular shows.

3

The balcony has steep stairs without railings; use caution.

10
Imagine That!!! image 1
Children's museum

Warehouse-style space offers spacious play areas with creative, colorful design and multiple themed zones like a grocery store, fire station, and pirate ship. Atmosphere stays calm and safe, with rules against running and seating for adults throughout. Activities suit toddlers to older kids, making it popular for birthday parties and family visits.

Creative spaces include painting areas, crafts, and dress-up corners where kids make and take home art. Activities blend pretend play with hands-on projects like puppet shows and tap dancing.

Puppet shows and tap dancing performances create a lively atmosphere for kids. Arts and crafts activities add a creative touch to the play experience.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids to have a blast."

"The art and craft station was my favorite part."

"It's a clean, safe play area with tons of arts and crafts."

Good to know

1

Admission is $25 per person, regardless of age.

2

The facility is clean and well-maintained for children's activities.

3

There are many activities suitable for kids aged 0-7 years.

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