Photo Credit: Morris County Tourism Bureau
Exciting Events & Initiatives at Mayo Performing Arts Center
Arts & culture abound in New Jersey—particularly in the state’s rare gem of Morris County. Our county has a rich history in the performing arts, with residents and visitors perhaps inspired by the area’s proximity to both picturesque countryside and the most influential city in the world.
Among Morris County’s esteemed artistic institutions is the Mayo Performing Arts Center, a long-standing community theater nestled in downtown Morristown, NJ, that offers world-class entertainment and access to arts education.
Keep reading to learn more about Mayo PAC’s history, events, and educational initiatives!
The History of Mayo Performing Arts Center
Located on Morristown’s lively South Street, Mayo Performing Arts Center is a Morris County staple. According to their website, MPAC is “a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization [that] presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey.”
Formerly named “The Community Theatre,” the facility was originally built in 1937. It was once an impeccable flagship location of Walter Reade’s movie theater chains in New Jersey. However, the Community Theatre had fallen into disrepair by the 1980s, sitting idle on South Street for almost a decade.
The theater reopened in 1994 as a performing arts center, and major renovations began in 2007, including the installation of an air conditioner, which enabled the venue to be open year-round. In 2011, the upstairs balcony was renovated, with all-new restrooms, concessions, and Art Gallery space. That same year, the theater officially changed its name to “Mayo Performing Arts Center.” Doing so signified the completion of a three year transition period, and a nod to A. Dale “Bud” Mayo’s leadership and instrumental contributions to New Jersey’s performing arts.
Further renovations have been completed, including the addition of a new orchestra pit, new dressing room, a fly-rail system, and a suite of education studios, which offer performing arts education classes for children and adults.
Events at MPAC
Mayo Performing Arts Center boasts an assortment of exciting events year-round. From in-person concerts and comedy shows to livestreams and virtual events, MPAC has something for everyone. Attendees can choose from a range of genres and experiences, from gorgeous ballets featuring the New Jersey Ballet and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra to off-Broadway musicals, rock concerts, and a variety of other entertaining shows.
The upcoming 2022 season is eclectic, exciting, and one to watch. Don’t miss events featuring the New Jersey Symphony, David Sedaris, Chaka Khan, The Bachelor Live On Stage Official Tour, Harry Connick, Jr., and more. View the full events calendar here.
Mayo Performing Arts Center’s Programs & Initiatives
In addition to world-class events, MPAC offers exceptional educational opportunities to children and adults of all ages. Over 40,000 children and their families participate in workshops, seminars, theatre classes, school time shows, student recognition programs, and other enrichment opportunities. MPAC’s dedication to arts education shines through in their Performing Arts School, School Programs, Main Stage Performances, and Outreach opportunities, inspiring Morris County residents and visitors to spark a lifelong love for music, dance, and culture.
Furthermore, one of the primary goals of the Mayo Performing Arts Center is to be inclusive for all individuals. MPAC is a valued part of our community, sharing a powerful love of the arts by providing performing arts classes to children with special needs, providing arts education to students in disadvantaged communities, partnering with other area nonprofits, and offering free concerts, events, and programs for all to enjoy.
Explore Artistic Morris County Today
Mayo Performing Arts Center is just one of the many local organizations that make our county so special. If you’re looking to move to an artistic locale to boost your business and enrich your life, look no further than Morris County. Our team can help you as you grow your business, put down new roots, and create a wonderful story here. Contact the Morris County EDC today!