For 25 years, the NJ Repertory Company in Long Branch, New Jersey, has been an oasis for playwrights and theater enthusiasts seeking fresh, innovative, and thought-provoking works. Under the passionate guidance of Suzanne Barabas, the Artistic Director, and Gabor Barbas, The Executive Producer of NJ Repertory, has become a beacon of creativity and exploration, focusing exclusively on producing new plays. In this article, we delve into the theater’s journey, its selection process for new works, the collaborative process with playwrights, directors, and actors, its impact on the local community, and its vision for the future.
Inspiration for a New Repertory Company in New Jersey:
When NJ Repertory was born a quarter-century ago, its founders Suzanne Barabas and Gabor Barabas, had a daring vision: to develop and produce almost exclusively new and unproduced plays, contributing to the enrichment of the American Stage’s repertoire. The audacity of their mission was evident, and building an audience willing to embrace the unfamiliar presented formidable challenges. Nevertheless, they persevered, gradually building a loyal following among adventurous theatergoers. Their reputation as innovators and artists became a welcoming space for local and well-known performers. This season alone, NJ Rep welcomed Kevin O’Rourke, award-winning actress Sharon Larence and currently Richard Kind and James Pickens Jr.
Selecting New Works and Fostering Unique Voices:
NJ Repertory embraces plays that tackle subjects off the beaten path, with intriguing psychological journeys for its characters. They champion grappling with difficult issues related to the human condition, unafraid of tackling controversial themes. The theater is drawn to playwrights with unique voices, providing encouragement and often producing their first professional productions. This focus on unique and diverse voices has been rewarded as they now receive more submissions from a wide range of writers.
“A Tailor Near Me”: A Playful Encounter with Profound Impact:
“A Tailor Near Me,” written by Michael Tucker, revolves around two men 9 Richard Kind and James Pickens, Jr.) connected through a seemingly mundane encounter—a tailor crafting a suit for a friend’s funeral. As the play unfolds during multiple fittings, their casual banter evolves into a deep exchange of personal stories, unfolding the mysteries that shaped their lives. The collaborative process between playwrights, directors, and actors at NJ Repertory ensures the vision of the playwright is realized on stage, with resident designers and a hands-on approach from the Artistic Director.
Embracing the Local Community:
The NJ Repertory’s success largely stems from its strong local community engagement. A core group of subscribers resides in the surrounding areas, with an additional 25% hailing from various counties throughout the state and even neighboring regions. The theater’s developmental readings are eagerly attended, and audiences often witness the transformation of readings into full productions, contributing to a sense of ownership and excitement.
Meeting Challenges Head-On:
Running a small regional theater exclusively dedicated to new plays presents unique challenges. The uncertainty of the current theater landscape, coupled with the pandemic’s impact, has raised concerns. However, NJ Repertory’s intimacy and size have proven strengths, making the audience feel like participants rather than mere observers. The theater’s resilience and commitment to quality continue to attract audiences.
Impact and Legacy:
NJ Repertory’s legacy is firmly rooted in its commitment to new plays and playwrights. By giving birth to plays that become part of the permanent repertoire of the American Stage, the theater enriches the cultural and artistic landscape of New Jersey and beyond. Their partnership with the National New Play Network and other theaters further amplifies their impact, ensuring new plays reach audiences across the nation.
Future Aspirations:
NJ Repertory’s future holds exciting possibilities as they develop an additional theater at their West End Arts Center. With expanded programming opportunities, including music, poetry, and comedy, the theater is poised for further growth. They aim to rebuild audiences post-Covid and continue their mission of nurturing new voices and enriching the American Stage.
NJ Repertory Company’s unwavering dedication to new plays has created a thriving artistic haven, encouraging and fostering unique voices within the theatrical landscape. As they continue to take on challenges and expand their reach, they leave an indelible mark on the theater industry, forging a path for playwrights and audiences to connect on a profound and transformative level.
In addition to their profound dedication to new works, their connection to their community is also worth mentioning as they are located in Longbranch, NJ, a stunning ocean-side community that truly benefits from this creative resident and it’s worth the trip if you have yet to enjoy their work.
Keep up to day with all of the amazing things that are happening at NJ Rep by visiting www.NJRep.org.
Michael Tucker’s A Tailor Near Me, directed by James Glossman, stars Tony Nominee Richard Kind (East New York; Curb Your Enthusiasm) and James Pickens, Jr. (Grey’s Anatomy; X-Files), will begin its limited run on July 27 and will run through August 27, 2023. To purchase tickets, visit www.njrep.org or call 732.229.3166.
