First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford

Rutherford is about to shine a little brighter this holiday season. Stars Theatre Company, the town’s newest performing arts organization, is stepping onto the local stage with heart, ambition, and a musical that already has residents talking. Their debut production, It’s a Wonderful Life: A New Musical, is officially auditioning performers and in a modern twist, submissions are being accepted entirely by video submissions on their website.
For founder Laura Rizzo Ed.D., launching Stars Theatre Company in her hometown is more than a creative venture; it’s a dream rooted in community. After years of directing, choreographing, teaching, and building theatre programs for both teens and youth, she envisioned a company that welcomed performers of all ages and backgrounds. Rutherford has always possessed a vibrant creative pulse,” she shared. “It just required a dedicated home where local talent could bring that passion to life.”
The production itself is a fresh musical adaptation of the beloved holiday classic, featuring Book &amp; Lyrics by John W. Atkins and Music by Andrew Abrams. Laura Rizzo will be directing and choreographing the show, and Bart Nativo will be stage managing the production. It promises nostalgia, warmth, and a new musical lens on George Bailey’s journey, the kind of story that feels tailor made for a community eager to reconnect and celebrate together.
What’s generating the biggest buzz, though, is Stars Theatre Company’s audition approach. By inviting performers ages 8 to 80 to submit video auditions, the company is opening doors for busy families, working adults, and newcomers who might otherwise hesitate to step into a casting room. And with the audition deadline set for September 12th at Noon, excitement — and submissions are already pouring in.
“It’s about accessibility,” Rizzo explained. “We want people to feel welcomed, not intimidated. If you’ve ever dreamed of being onstage, whether you’re eight or eighty, this is your moment.”
There is no tuition to participate; instead, there is a $150 membership fee to join the production. Performers of all experience levels from the entire tristate area are welcome to audition.
Rehearsals begin September 20th to December 6th and will be on Sundays from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm, with performances scheduled for December 10, 11, and 12, 2026 at the First Presbyterian Church’s Karen Kaiser Parish House 32 Ridge Rd. The venue is conveniently located near the Rutherford NJ Transit station, making it easily accessible for performers and audience members traveling from across the region. And as anticipation builds, the community is already buzzing about another announcement: tickets will go on sale September 20th, with general admission priced at just $20, and $15 for students &amp; seniors. The company hopes the affordable pricing will make holiday theatre accessible to families, students, seniors, and anyone looking to enjoy a heartwarming night out.
“Live theatre should feel welcoming,” Rizzo said. “We want people to walk in, feel the magic, and know they’re part of something special.”
Tickets will be available at starstheatre.com, where audiences can also find updates, cast announcements, and behind‑the‑scenes glimpses as the production comes to life.
Although It’s a Wonderful Life: A New Musical serves as the inaugural production for Stars Theatre Company, it represents just the start of their vision. Beyond this show, the company is actively preparing workshops, community gatherings, and upcoming performances. Every initiative aims to unite the community through creative storytelling, shared experiences, and lasting friendships.
With auditions underway, ticket sales approaching, and enthusiasm growing by the day, Rutherford’s newest theatre company is ready to make its mark — one heartfelt performance at a time.

Local Event: A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford!

Bergen County

Rutherford

New Jersey

A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic —...

Rutherford is about to shine a little brighter this holiday season. Stars Theatre Company, the town’s newest performing arts...

A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford!

South Mountain Reservation

ONE WEEK TO GO!
Franciscan Charities' 1st 5K Run &amp; Walk Fundraiser is almost here!

Join us on September 12th at the Clipper Pavilion in the South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange. &nbsp;Every step supports Franciscan Charities’ mission to help those in need in our Newark community.
Whether you run, walk or donate – together we can make a difference!

Local Event: Franciscan Charities First 5K Run & Walk

Essex County

Newark

Franciscan Charities First 5K Run & Walk

ONE WEEK TO GO!
Franciscan Charities' 1st 5K Run & Walk Fundraiser is almost here!

Join us on September 12th at the Clipper...

Costco Wholesale

<dl><dt>Tremendous Furniture Warehouse Liquidation&nbsp;Sale Saturday September 12th 9:30am-4:30pm on Route 1 in North&nbsp;Brunswick NJ....Dock 5 The Warehouses Behind Liberty Cannabis Dock 5&nbsp;</dt></dl>
This massive liquidation event will take place at 2300 Route 1 North, North&nbsp;Brunswick NJ The Warehouses Dock 5-Behind Panera in the white &amp; blue low warehouses.... next to&nbsp;Blue Star Glass
Don't miss this opportunity to find incredible deals on quality office furniture. We just took in a ton of beautiful commercial grade furniture like new from the several&nbsp;large Fortune 100 corporations selling 80% off new.&nbsp; Just got in Herman Miller Embody Chairs and have plenty of goodies like Herman&nbsp;Miller Mirra&nbsp; &amp; Steelcase Gesture...with a 3 year warranty!
<a href="https://null/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a>All of our furniture is liquidated from the largest Fortune 100 corporations in the country that have downsized or relocated...Thousands of high-end ergonomic office chair starting @ $75 &amp; up, couches, soft seating, club chairs, cubicles, benching, stacking chairs, reception &amp; conference room furniture and so much more like new 80% off. All furniture cleaned, inspected, sanitized and in stock ready to go....
Delivery Available...We can help with your layout &amp; design.
We are loaded floor to ceiling with high-end furniture Herman&nbsp;Miller, Steelcase,&nbsp;Knoll, Haworth, Humanscale, Geiger, Andreu World etc.. 80% off new, like new with a 3 year warranty
Mention this post take $10 off!&nbsp; text for more details 732-677-8450
Architects, Designers, Furniture Dealers, Brokers, Stagers all welcome to save your clients money!

Local Event: Tremendous Home  & Office Furniture Warehouse Liquidation Sale

Middlesex County

North Brunswick

Tremendous Home  & Office Furniture Warehouse...

Tremendous Furniture Warehouse Liquidation Sale Saturday September 12th 9:30am-4:30pm on Route 1 in North Brunswick NJ....Dock...

Tremendous Home  & Office Furniture Warehouse Liquidation Sale

Newark Public Library - Main Branch

NAACP Newark and Partners to Host Literacy Fair to support creating stronger readers .

Local Event: Literacy Fair

Literacy Fair

NAACP Newark and Partners to Host Literacy Fair to support creating stronger readers .

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Always wanted to learn to dance but never had the right moment? This is it. Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Upper Montclair is opening its doors for a free Open House Guest Party on Thursday, September 17th, and everyone is welcome, no partner, no experience, and no dance shoes required. Come see what a real dance studio is like from the inside: watch our professional dancers perform live, join a beginner-friendly introductory group lesson, and get a feel for ballroom and Latin dance in a fun, welcoming setting. Doors open at 7:30pm with the group lesson starting at 7:45pm, plus special offers available for first-time guests. With ballroom having a real moment on TV screens lately, there's never been a better time to see what the excitement is about for yourself. Fred Astaire Upper Montclair has been teaching this community to dance for over 45 years, and this party is the easiest, lowest-pressure way to start. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a fun night out, or just always wondered if you could dance — come find out. This event is free for eligible first-time guests, but space is limited, so reserve your spot now. Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Upper Montclair, 414 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009. Call 973-783-8999 or email <a href="mailto:uppermontclair@fredastaire.com">uppermontclair@fredastaire.com</a> to save your seat.

Local Event: Be Our Guest: Free Open House Dance Party

Montclair

Be Our Guest: Free Open House Dance Party

Always wanted to learn to dance but never had the right moment? This is it. Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Upper Montclair is...

Brookdale Park Gazebo, Bloomfield, NJ

Join us for the final summer session of <a href="https://flowbyrafa.co/#section04" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">BACK TO THE MAT</a>, a series of outdoor Pilates sessions held under the Brookdale Park Gazebo in Bloomfield, NJ, led by fully certified Pilates instructor <a href="https://flowbyrafa.co/#section02" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Rafael Jimenez</a>. 
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Strength, mobility, and breath-centered movement
• Small-group format limited to 12 participants — all levels welcome
• Personalized attention and form instruction
• Bring a mat and water — a curated prop kit will be provided
$45 per person. Please arrive by 6:45 AM.&nbsp;
Park entrance: 20 Bellevue Avenue, Bloomfield, NJ
Pre-registration is required.
To reserve your mat space and learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://flowbyrafa.co/#section04" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.flowbyrafa.co</a>.
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/flowbyrafa" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">@flowbyrafa</a>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/flowbyrafa" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a>

Local Event: Back To The Mat | Vol. 006

Bloomfield

Back To The Mat | Vol. 006

Join us for the final summer session of BACK TO THE MAT, a series of outdoor Pilates sessions held under the Brookdale Park...

Montclair Kimberley Academy – Primary School Campus (224 Orange Road, Montclair, NJ).  

Where Young Players Fall in Love with the Game! A professionally designed soccer program that introduces children to the game through fun, creativity, and expert coaching. Every session builds confidence, develops fundamental skills, and creates a lifelong love of soccer.&nbsp; &nbsp; 10 Saturdays:
September 19 – November 21
Each session builds progressively, allowing players to develop new skills every week.



Session Times: 9:00–10:00 AM Pre-K &amp; Kindergarten (Boys &amp; Girls)

10:00–11:00 AM 1st &amp; 2nd Grade (Boys &amp; Girls)

11:00 AM–12:00 PM 3rd–5th Grade (Boys &amp; Girls)Professional Coaching Staff:&nbsp; Program Director - Robert Leather Founder, First Touch Soccer Academy MKA Boys Varsity Head Coach



Head Coaches -&nbsp;Tim Keegan, MKA Girls Varsity Head Coach and Damari East,&nbsp;MKA Girls Assistant Coach

Our coaching staff combines elite playing experience, modern coaching methodology, and a passion for developing young players. Every child is coached, encouraged, challenged, and supported in a positive learning environment.What Players Will Learn: 
Ball Mastery &amp; Dribbling Passing &amp; Receiving Shooting &amp; Finishing Coordination &amp; Movement Skills Small-Sided Games (3v3 &amp; 4v4) Teamwork &amp; Confidence Creativity &amp; Decision MakingEvery Session Includes:Fun movement-based warm-up games Age-appropriate technical coaching Skill challenges and engaging activities Small-sided games with maximum touches Positive coaching and individual encouragementOur Philosophy:Develop the player. Inspire the person. We believe young players learn best when they're smiling, moving, and enjoying every minute on the field. Our goal isn't simply to teach soccer—it's to build confidence, friendships, and a lifelong passion for the game. Professional Coaching • Positive Environment • Player Development First

Local Event: First Touch Soccer Academy In Partnership With MKA Presents - Mini Kickers Academy - Fall 2026

First Touch Soccer Academy In Partnership With...

Where Young Players Fall in Love with the Game! A professionally designed soccer program that introduces children to the game...

First Touch Soccer Academy In Partnership With MKA Presents - Mini Kickers Academy - Fall 2026

The Wellmont Theater

A Night of Legendary Music Is Coming to The Wellmont Theater / Montclair NJ.
Taylor Simon King is more than a concert - it's a time machine. Take A Nostalgic Look Back at 4 Decades of Classic Music That Became the Soundtrack to Our Generation!•
From the poetic soul of James Taylor, the electrifying energy of Carly Simon, to the timeless magic of Carole King - this tribute delivers unforgettable performances that will stir your heart, spark your memories, and get you singing every word.
• CRITICS CALL IT “an emotional musical journey. Truly a multiple generational evening out.
We are proud to say, this show is selling out across the country - don't miss your chance to relive the songs that shaped our lives. Produced by Franke Previte Academy Award winner (I've had) The time of my life Dirty Dancing.&nbsp;tickets taylorsimonking.com or wellmonttheater.com

Local Event: Taylor Simon King

Taylor Simon King

A Night of Legendary Music Is Coming to The Wellmont Theater / Montclair NJ.
Taylor Simon King is more than a concert - it's a...

Ria x Frame Shop

An intimate evening at Ricardo Roig's new gallery in Montclair presented with Dwell New Jersey, where art, design, and home come together in a truly personalized experience. Bring a photo of a room or wall in your home that feels unfinished, and sit down with renowned artist Ricardo Roig, a professional framer, an art consultant and an interior designer for thoughtful guidance on selecting artwork that complements your space. From scale and color to framing and placement, you'll gain expert insight into how to create a home that feels collected and intentional. Following your consultation, enjoy a selection of wine, champagne, and beer as you continue exploring the gallery, connect with fellow design enthusiasts, and mingle with the evening's creative collaborators. The event is free but pre-registration is required at&nbsp;<a href="https://dwellnewjersey.com/frame-your-space" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">dwellnewjersey.com/frame-your-space</a>

Local Event: Frame Your Space

Frame Your Space

An intimate evening at Ricardo Roig's new gallery in Montclair presented with Dwell New Jersey, where art, design, and home...

Hi fellow cat people! I am working with a company called Treat that seeks to recruit pets for in home wellness studies. There are great freebies (supplements, activity trackers, etc.) for those who participate and it's all done in the home. We are signing up ITCHY&nbsp;cats or cats that lick themselves a lot for our current study!&nbsp;Please sign up to see if you qualify!
<a href="https://tally.so/r/b5JDPL" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://tally.so/r/b5JDPL</a>

Eric Kiefer

New York City Metropolitan Area

Cat Wellness Study

Hi fellow cat people!  I am working with a company called Treat that seeks to recruit pets for in home wellness studies. There are great freebies ...

Psychotherapy office available in a LEED Gold certified building in the heart of Downtown Montclair. This lovely part-time office is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and/or Saturdays.<ul>
 <li>Office Highlights:</li>
 <ul>
 <li>Charming therapy office with a non-working brick fireplace and large, operable windows.</li>
 </ul>
 <li>Building Amenities &amp; Accessibility:</li>
 <ul>
 <li>Full Accessibility: ADA-compliant elevator and restrooms.</li>
 <li>Ample Parking: Dedicated on-site parking lot, including designated spaces for eco-friendly/low-emitting vehicles.</li>
 <li>Active Commuter Friendly: Equipped with a secure bike rack, on-site shower, and changing rooms for those who prefer to walk, run, or cycle to work.</li>
 <li>Located in a LEED Gold certified building that features a rotating Studio Montclair art gallery.</li>
 </ul>
</ul>
Contact: Reach out to Chris at 973-509-1444
or <a href="mailto:cschubert@parkwestassociates.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">cschubert@parkwestassociates.com</a> to schedule a viewing or inquire about rates.

Part-Time Psychotherapy Office Available -...

Psychotherapy office available in a LEED Gold certified building in the heart of Downtown Montclair. This lovely part-time office is available on...

Part-Time Psychotherapy Office Available - Downtown Montclair  

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation, represented by Mortgage

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation, represented by Mortgage Loan Originator Daryle Pellegrino, provides comprehensive home financing services to clients throughout New Jersey. Operating out of their Fairfield office at 165 Passaic Avenue, the team assists homebuyers, homeowners, and real estate investors with a wide range of mortgage needs. As an Equal Housing Lender, they are committed to guiding clients through the complexities of the lending process with professional expertise. With over 25 years of industry experience, Daryle Pellegrino specializes in navigating complex lending scenarios that often fall outside traditional guidelines. His expertise spans conventional, FHA, and VA financing, alongside specialized solutions such as Non-QM mortgages, bank statement programs for self-employed borrowers, DSCR investment loans, and ITIN financing. He also works closely with real estate professionals, attorneys, and CPAs to identify viable financing strategies for clients facing challenges with income, credit, or property documentation. Clients can expect a hands-on, personalized approach where every loan application is reviewed individually to ensure a thorough understanding of their financial picture. By prioritizing clear communication and creative problem-solving, the firm offers a reliable path forward for those who may have been declined elsewhere or require a tailored approach to their home financing journey.

Essex

Fairfield

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation, represented by Mortgage Loan Originator Daryle Pellegrino, provides comprehensive home financing services to...

HZY Goods Dispensary in East Orange Now Open!

HZY Goods Dispensary

Welcome to HZY Goods — your neighborhood New Jersey licensed Cannabis Dispensary at 19 Prospect St, East Orange, NJ is Now Open. We’re a local, retro-inspired weed shop built on community, good energy, and premium products that make you feel right. From high-quality flower and pre-rolls to edibles and vapes, everything’s hand-picked for good vibes only. Visit us in-store or order online for fast cannabis delivery near you.

East Orange

Welcome to HZY Goods — your neighborhood New Jersey licensed Cannabis Dispensary at 19 Prospect St, East Orange, NJ is Now Open. We’re a local,...

Code Wiz Rutherford

Code Wiz provide an exciting, hands-on experience for kids and teens (6 yrs – 17 yrs) eager to explore coding, game design, and technology. Whether beginners or experienced coders, campers engage in interactive projects that spark creativity and critical thinking. With expert guidance, they develop technical skills in a fun, supportive environment. What Makes Code Wiz Summer Camps Special? •	Diverse Learning Paths – Kids can dive into Minecraft modding, Roblox game development, Robotics , Python and more •	Hands-On, Project-Based Learning – Kids learn by doing, designing their own games, applications, and coding solutions. •	Personalized Instruction – Small batch sizes ensure individualized support, helping every child progress at their own pace. •	Encouraging Creativity &amp; Problem-Solving – Students develop critical thinking skills while bringing their unique ideas to life. •	Teamwork &amp; Confidence Building – Kids collaborate, solve challenges and gain confidence in their abilities. •	Fun &amp; Engaging Atmosphere – Learning feels like play, making technology exciting and accessible.

Bergen

Code Wiz provide an exciting, hands-on experience for kids and teens (6 yrs – 17 yrs) eager to explore coding, game design, and technology. Whether...

Glen Ridge

🌱 How did Glen Ridge runners stack up in the...

Make time for Franciscan Charities First 5K Run & Walk on the Glen Ridge Patch calendar

🌱 How did Glen Ridge runners stack up in the latest 5K meet?

Community Corner

🌱 Newark PorchFest and 5 more events

Happening soon: A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford! on the Glen Ridge Patch calendar

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

🌱 How did Glen Ridge runners stack up in the latest 5K meet?

🌱 How did Glen Ridge runners stack up in the latest 5K meet?

🌱 Newark PorchFest and 5 more events

🌱 Newark PorchFest and 5 more events

A New Theatre Company Brings Holiday Magic — and Opportunity to Rutherford!

Franciscan Charities First 5K Run & Walk

Tremendous Home & Office Furniture Warehouse Liquidation Sale

Literacy Fair

Be Our Guest: Free Open House Dance Party

Back To The Mat | Vol. 006

First Touch Soccer Academy In Partnership With MKA Presents - Mini Kickers Academy - Fall 2026

Taylor Simon King

Frame Your Space

Cat Wellness Study

Part-Time Psychotherapy Office Available - Downtown Montclair

Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation

HZY Goods Dispensary

Code Wiz Rutherford