Galloway, N.J. – Like the new year, Stockton University’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) is emerging from the winter and warming up with shows sure to please everybody. 

Anjanette Christy, director of the PAC, anticipates that this spring will encompass the very essence of performing arts, from music to dance to theater. 

“As we step into spring, we’re excited to create memorable experiences for our community," Christy said. "From the gospel roots of the Blind Boys of Alabama to the timeless tradition of 'Madama Butterfly,' each performance offers something very special. 'Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey' brings a delightful, family-friendly adventure, while Giordano Dance Chicago celebrates 62 years of jazz dance artistry, set to some of Gershwin’s timeless classics. Together, these performances help us connect through music, storytelling and movement.”

Here’s a closer look at some of the spring’s highlights, set to conclude the 2024-25 season in May:

‘Madama Butterfly’ by the NJ Association of Verismo Opera – Saturday, Feb. 7 

Travel to 1904 Nagasaki, Japan, and learn of the tragic fate of a naïve geisha and her unfaithful lover at the Stockton University Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. 

Cio-Cio-san, nicknamed “Butterfly,” renounced her family and community to marry Pinkerton, an American naval officer and man with ulterior motives. The NJ Association of Verismo Opera, the same troupe that brought Rossini’s “Il Barbiere Di Siviglia” (“The Barber of Seville”) to life in 2024, will perform their story of love and betrayal. 

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Celtic Angels Ireland – Saturday, March 8 

An homage to the Emerald Isle will be front and center on the main stage of Stockton University’s Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 8. 

With over 30 Irish traditional and contemporary songs performed by the Trinity Ensemble, the Heavenly Celtic Angels and the Dynamic Celtic Knights Dancers, the theatrical feast will prove to be an evening of craic (fun), ceol (music) and traidisiún (tradition). 

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‘Forever Young: A Tribute to Your Life and Music’ – Friday, March 21

This show follows a group of friends as they discover the power of friendship and iconic music in a suburban basement. It will be performed on the Stockton University Performing Arts Center mainstage at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 21. 

“Forever Young,” a heartfelt true story, features songs by The Beatles, Billy Joel, The Rolling Stones, Styx, Queen, Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Bon Jovi and many more. 

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Giordano Dance Chicago – Saturday, March 28

America’s original jazz dance company is set to light the Stockton University Performing Arts Center mainstage on fire with their performance at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 28. 

Giordano Dance Chicago will showcase new works by Emmy-winning choreographer Al Blackstone. For 62 years, GDC has toured over 27 countries and 1,500 cities across the U.S. 

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The Drifters: Rock & Roll Hall of Famers – Saturday, April 12

The Drifters, considered one of rock ‘n’ roll’s founding vocal groups, will stop by on the mainstage of Stockton University’s Performing Arts Center during their tour at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12. 

Some of the big hits that they’re expected to perform include “Up on the Roof,” “Under the Boardwalk,” “This Magic Moment,” “There Goes My Baby,” “Dance with Me,” “Spanish Harlem” and “Stand by Me.” 

– Story by Loukaia Taylor

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