Artelize - A Cultural Extravaganza at Count Basie: Music, Laughter, and Holiday Magic
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A Cultural Extravaganza at Count Basie: Music, Laughter, and Holiday Magic

The Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ, is gearing up for a vibrant series of events that promise to captivate audiences of all ages. From the timeless melodies of Air Supply to the enchanting Sesame Street Live show, and the soulful tunes of the Indigo Girls, the upcoming lineup is a celebration of art, music, and entertainment. Join us as we delve into the heart of these events, each offering a unique blend of nostalgia, excitement, and cultural richness.

Nov 29, 2024
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1. Air Supply
Experience the timeless melodies and captivating harmonies of Air Supply at the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Formed in 1975 by Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock, Air Supply quickly rose to fame with their unique sound, characterized by Hitchcock's soaring tenor voice and Russell's masterful songwriting. Their journey began in Sydney, Australia, where they met during rehearsals for Jesus Christ Superstar and bonded over their shared love for The Beatles and singing. Their breakthrough came with the single "Love and Other Bruises," which topped the national charts, leading to tours with Rod Stewart and a record deal with Arista Records. Hits like "Lost in Love," "All Out of Love," and "The One That You Love" solidified their place in music history, with their albums selling over 20 million copies worldwide. Known for their live performances, Air Supply was the first Western group to tour China and Taiwan, captivating audiences globally. Their song "Making Love Out of Nothing at All," written by Jim Steinman, further cemented their legacy. Over the years, they have continued to produce music and tour, celebrating milestones such as their 30th anniversary with a record-breaking performance in Cuba and their induction into the Australian Recording Industry Association’s Hall of Fame. Presented by the Count Basie Center for the Arts, this event offers a chance to witness the enduring magic of Air Supply, whose music has touched hearts and transcended generations.
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Nov 30, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

2. Sesame Street Live Say Hello
Join Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street as they bring joy and excitement to your neighborhood with "Sesame Street Live Say Hello." This vibrant and interactive show invites audiences to sing, dance, and play alongside their favorite furry friends. The adventure centers around Elmo’s puppy, Tango, as the characters engage in a delightful game of hide and seek. The performance promises a lively celebration filled with music, laughter, and the timeless charm of Sesame Street. Presented by the Count Basie Center for the Arts, this event offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Sesame Street in a live setting. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the world of Sesame Street, this show is designed to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages.
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Dec 1, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

3. Indigo Girls
Released in 1989, Indigo Girls’ eponymous major label debut sold over two million copies under the power of singles “Closer to Fine” and “Kid Fears” and turned Indigo Girls into one of the most successful folk duos in history. Over a thirty-five-year career that began in clubs around their native Atlanta, Georgia, the multi-Grammy-winning duo of Emily Saliers and Amy Ray has recorded sixteen studio albums, sold over 15 million records, and built a dedicated, enduring following across the globe. Rolling Stone describes them as the “ideal duet partners.” Committed and uncompromising activists, they work on issues like immigration reform (El Refugio), LGBTQ advocacy, education (Imagination Library), death penalty reform, and Native American rights. They are co-founders of Honor the Earth, a non-profit dedicated to the survival of sustainable Native communities, Indigenous environmental justice, and green energy solutions.
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Dec 3, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

4. A Johnny Mathis Christmas
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the legendary Johnny Mathis as he returns to the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Celebrating an illustrious 68-year career, Mathis will enchant audiences with his greatest holiday hits, romantic ballads, and personal favorites. Known for his sublime vocal approach that transcends musical trends, Mathis has mastered a variety of styles, from stage and screen compositions to golden era jazz standards and contemporary pop hits in multiple languages. His memorable Christmas classics have solidified his reputation as one of the most enduring vocalists in music history. Best known for timeless songs like "Chances Are," "Misty," and "It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," the GRAMMY-nominated artist has recorded 80 original albums and sold millions of records worldwide. His accolades include numerous industry awards and the release of his critically acclaimed holiday album "Christmas Time Is Here" in 2023. As Columbia Records' longest-signed recording artist, Johnny Mathis continues to be celebrated as "The Voice of Christmas." Join us for an unforgettable evening and discover why the holiday season is simply not complete without the enchanting voice of Johnny Mathis. Presented by the Count Basie Center for the Arts.
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Dec 5, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

5. The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert
Experience the magic of the holiday season with "The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert," presented by the New Jersey Symphony at the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre. This enchanting event features a live performance of the complete film score, synchronized with the beloved movie. Watch as the Muppets bring Charles Dickens' timeless tale to life, with Kermit the Frog starring as Bob Cratchit, the humble clerk of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Michael Caine. The performance includes a host of favorite Muppet characters, adding their unique charm and humor to this classic story. Conducted by Constantine Kitsopoulos, the New Jersey Symphony's live orchestration enhances the film's festive spirit, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of the holiday season. This special presentation is licensed by Disney Concerts, ensuring a high-quality production that honors the original film. Join us for a heartwarming celebration that promises to delight audiences of all ages.
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Dec 6, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

6. Chris Knight
After 23 years as a recording artist, singer-songwriter Chris Knight remains boldly empowered to make music that always delivers the unflinching truth. In fact, the man raised in Slaughters, Kentucky uses a simple, direct barometer to regularly check his muse: “If I can’t believe myself, I won’t sing the song.”
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Dec 6, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

7. Holiday Doo Wop
Hosted by Cool Bobby B of Sirius XM Radio – 50s Gold
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Dec 7, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

8. David Benoit Christmas Tribute To Charlie Brown
In 1965, the first ever “Peanuts” animated special took place. It was a landmark event and it was the start of a tradition that would continue year after year. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” is a tradition enjoyed around the world by fans of all ages. Now, over 50 years later, Contemporary Jazz Piano Legend, David Benoit along with distinguished Vocalist, Courtney Fortune, is paying tribute to this incredible piece of entertainment history, with a “David Benoit Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown With Special Guest Courtney Fortune”.
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Dec 7, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

9. Sister’s Christmas Catechism
It’s “CSI: Bethlehem” in this holiday mystery extravaganza, from the author of Late Nite Catechism, as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages – whatever happened to the Magi’s gold? (“We know that Mary used the frankincense and myrrh as a sort of potpourri – they were in a barn after all.”) Retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can, this hilarious holiday production is bound to become a yearly classic. Employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a local choir as well as a gaggle of audience members, Sister creates a living nativity unlike any you’ve ever seen. With gifts galore and bundles of laughs, Sister’s Christmas Catechism is sure to become the newest addition to your holiday traditions.
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Dec 8, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

10. The Struggle is Real Comedy Tour
The Bored Teachers Podcast: The Struggle is Real Comedy Tour is making its way to the Count Basie Center for the Arts, bringing a fresh wave of humor to educators and comedy enthusiasts alike. Known for their viral videos that have garnered over a billion views and a massive following of over 10 million on social media, Bored Teachers Studios has become a beacon of laughter for teachers worldwide. Their comedy podcast ranks as the number one teacher-comedy show on Apple Podcasts, and since 2022, they have been selling out venues across 49 states. The tour has entertained over 150,000 teachers, making it a staple event in the educational community. The show is a relatable comedy powerhouse, drawing on the everyday experiences of classroom life, and has been praised by both teachers and non-teachers as one of the funniest stand-up performances. Presented by the Count Basie Center for the Arts, this event promises a night of laughter and shared experiences, with some sets featuring PG-13 language.
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Dec 8, 2024
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Red Bank, NJ · Count Basie Center for the Arts

Conclusion
The Count Basie Center for the Arts has curated an extraordinary lineup of events that celebrate music, joy, and community spirit. From the harmonious tunes of Air Supply and the Indigo Girls to the heartwarming holiday spirit of Johnny Mathis and the comedic brilliance of the Struggle is Real Comedy Tour, each performance promises a unique experience. Whether you are drawn to nostalgic melodies, delightful storytelling, or infectious laughter, the Count Basie Center is the perfect destination for an unforgettable cultural journey this season.
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