Upcoming Shows at WP Presents!

Mommy University is so excited to partner this season with WP Presents! In exchange for tickets to performances, we are happy to be able to bring you all the entertainment this season as well as our honest review of the shows.

There is nothing like the energy and passion that is displayed in theatrical performances.  William Paterson has a thriving artistic community on its campus and the Shea Center for Performing Arts links the college to the public. The performances at the Shea Center may range from music to speakers to what we focus on which is family performances.  At Mommy University, we have witnessed how bringing children to the theater has not only stimulated an appreciation of the arts, but it also encourages their imagination.

The family performances are one day engagements that are 45 minutes in length and designed to balance educational components with engaging stories.  Prior to each family performance, there is a free craft activity that will relate to the story the children will watch.  After the show, children can meet the performers, receive an autograph and take a photograph with them.  The program offers many layers that will appeal to the various family members.

2015-2016 WP Presents! Season

Haunted Illusions Starring David Caserta

Saturday, October 24, 2015, 8:00 pm

During this Halloween season, treat your family to a mesmerizing magic show filled with illusions and humor as well as an interactive component that will get all the members of the family enthralled.

Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat 

Saturday, November 21, 2015, 2:00 pm*
*Pre-show creative activities begin at 1:15 pm

Childsplay brings a new dimension to the classic children’s story The Cat in the Hat which is designed for children ages 3-9 years old.  The play is adapted and originally directed by Katie Mitchell.  Join the famous feline as he embarks on some adventures and mischief.

Dr. Seuss text, character and images TM and ©2009 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P.

Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas

Saturday, December 5, 2015, 2:00 pm* 
*Pre-show creative activities begin at 1:15 pm

Based on the New York Times bestselling picture book by Jane O’ Connor and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser, audiences can join Fancy Nancy as she celebrates the holiday season.  The Vital Theatre Company puts together this splendiferous performance of a childhood favorite.

Fly Guy and Other Stories

Monday, December 7, 2015, 10:30 am 
Theater for Children with Autism

This is a sensory friendly show that includes a musical compilation and based on popular children’s books which is only open to classes and families with children with autism.  The is designed for children ages 4-9 years old.

Junie B. Jones’ Essential Survival Guide to School

Friday, March 18, 2016, 10:30 am 
Theater for Children with Autism

School can be scary as much as fun.  Junie B. Jones shares her advice in this new musical based on the popular children’s books which is only open to children on the autism spectrum.

New Jersey Youth Symphony

Friday, March 18, 2016,  8:00 pm

This FREE performance of The New Jersey Youth Symphony is wonderful exposure for young children to classical music.  The recommended ages for this program are students in grades 3-12. Drawing talented musicians from around the Garden State, the Youth Symphony is the most advanced ensemble.

Seussical

Friday, April 22, 2016, 10:30 am 
Theater for Children with Autism

If you have Dr. Seuss fans in your home than Seussical is the show for you which is the combination and interaction of several of his classic stories.  This new musical based on the popular Dr. Seuss books which is only open to children on the autism spectrum.

Mime and Body Puppet Theatre from South America
Hugo y Ines

Saturday, April 23, 2016, 12:30 pm & 3:00 pm

Puppetry takes on a new and imaginative twist when feet, elbows and yes knees are used to create unique characters.Traveling from Latin America to WP Presents, this performance combines mime and music for a memorable experience.

See something you like (everything I’m sure)? You can purchase tickets on WP Presents website.  Don’t forget prior to the show there is an arts and crafts project as well as following the show you can meet the cast of the performances.  We look forward to bringing you reviews of some of the performances listed here as well as the various benefits of programs WP Presents! Keep checking back as we will be adding performances as they are released!