If one enjoys creativity, storytelling, and problem-solving, then performing arts encompass all types of art that are performed and presented to an audience. Located just west of the Passaic River waterfront in Newark, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is one of the largest performing arts centers in the US and home to the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, bringing world-class entertainment. My partner, our friends, and I managed to obtain four tickets as well as parking via Ticketmaster in the orchestra row for this Saturday event called "Hollywood in New Jersey," featuring some of the most iconic film music of all time performed by the New Jersey Symphony with guest conductor David Newman and an award-winning German pianist, Sebastian Knauer. Upon arrival as first-timers at the Prudential Hall, we were greeted by the staff. The interior architecture was breathtaking and felt like stepping back in time to the golden age of theater. There were three levels that can be accessed by stairs or an elevator and seat approximately 3,000 spectators. The event kicked off with a special introductory from NJ Governor Phil, and his wife, Tammy, spoke about the Garden State being the new Hollywood of the East and recounted the experience with the German pianist while they were ambassadors in Germany. The venue offered a clear stage view, great acoustics, and comfortable seating. We were very surprised with how clean and polished everything looked. A gigantic ball-shaped chandelier caught our eyes. Staff was very helpful and friendly. Parking in Military Parking Garage was a breeze, with plenty of options nearby. Just keep in mind that exiting the local garages after a show could take a little time, as many patrons were leaving at once. The staff did a great job directing traffic out of the garage. An excellent evening all the way around. We're definitely looking forward to visiting again. read more

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Beautiful performance center with a lot of small rooms for local community events, too - though the costs for running events can be high due to the union labor associated with security, cleanup, etc. Parking right across the street from the facility in Military Park garage underground. read more

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Newark is never my first choice destination for entertainment... or anything else for that matter -- but the NJPAC is a stellar venue with massive amounts of parking right across the street. You also can't argue with a first-rate, friendly staff. Five easy stars. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - We stared at a chair for two hours at NJPAC. Actually, comedian Gary Gulman was a blast. - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

NJPAC is a top notch venue that offers a variety of programming. This past week, I went to see Stardew Valley: Symphony of Seasons; I was there for the Saturday 3pm show. It was a memorable performance and experience! The acoustics inside the performance hall are very good, so no matter where you are seated, you can enjoy the music. I was seated in Orchestra row J and pretty center, and had a great view of the players and the visuals. Symphony of Seasons involved the projection of playthrough visuals and gorgeous animation vignettes. For this event, I saw that the merch line was VERY LONG due to demand. I believe both shows were SOLD OUT so the venue was packed, but NJPAC staff and security did a great job handling it all. I've been to NJPAC for various types of shows over the years. Recently, I've enjoyed the video gaming related concerts. I love Stardew Valley. Symphony of Seasons was very special and you could tell the crowd was comprised of fans. I'm glad that SOHO Live and Concerned Ape collaborated, and that NJPAC was one of the venues for this tour. read more

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Visited to watch the Rock Orchestra perform. Love seeing a performance at NJ PAC. The venue has great accoustics, is beautiful, comfortable, and the seats are designed so that the rows in front of you do not block your view. Staff is friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of paid parking lot options within 2-10 minute walk. There are plenty of police out for performances to help with cars, pedestrians, etc Some of my visits have included seeing Aretha Franklin, Frankie Valli, and a screening of Chevy Chase's "Christmas Vacation" here with him discussing the movie afterwards. read more

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Newark, NJ - usually when I come to NJPAC it's for a New Jersey Symphony Orchestra performance or the occasional holiday program. As it turns out, my favorite concert of the year would be the wholesome EDM kids rave party that is Danny Go! (Who sez club culture is dead!) More lighters in the air (ok, foam light-up sticks) than an arena rock show, an audience that's just as fanatic, and energy to match Gojira at Hellfest. I had to hold myself back from the urge to "wiggle dance" lest I block the view of the shorties behind me and earn the ire of their parents. But back to the venue... At 2868 seats, Prudential Hall is a huge auditorium, yet it has always felt more intimate to me, with good views from nearly every section. The acoustics are very fine, and were excellent for this show (if a little loud in front orchestra where we were sitting, but I'm of the mind that all pop shows aim to blow out your eardrums). Audio, video & lighting were seamless, so kudos to the production/tech team back there. Check in was easy, staff were nice, crowds were well managed (it was a sold out show). There are several snack bars where you can order (of course overpriced) nibbles and drinks including alcoholic beverages. Easily accessible by public transport via PATH or NJ Transit to Newark Penn Station from where it's a 10-12 min walk, or NJPAC/Center St. light rail station (3 min). Parking is available in Military Parking Garage across the street, around $25 on event days (rate varies), but you might save a few bucks if you go a block further to Edison ParkFast on Raymond Blvd. You can attempt street parking, but good luck on show days! For pre/post-show dining, there is an on-site restaurant called Nico Kitchen & Bar (mind you they close at 8pm), as well a number of area restaurants within walking distance. NJPAC is a superb venue and has all sorts of programming & entertainment offerings, so check out the lineup on their website and attend something! read more

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We've been here a handful of times and we love it. It's not too big and not too small. Concerts run on time. The staff is professional and helpful. There is a parking garage right across the street which is very convenient. There is a restaurant attached (we didn't eat there). Highly recommend seeing any artist or show here ! read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Lead singer of Chicago - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

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I was in the fourth tier for Third Eye Blind. The sound quality was fine for the crisper segments, like the Cars-esque "Never Let You Go," but wasn't an ideal mix on "Graduate." I couldn't say if that was venue-related or just because Stephan Jenkins wasn't as loud as the guitars (I'm not complaining, it was an excellent foray into the more metal-adjacent side of the Buzz Bin). The sight lines were better than other theaters, no odd cameo appearances by railings. In an odd twist, the upper tiers have massive blocks of seats with no center aisle, perhaps 30 or so. That means there will be some "pardon me/excuse me" moments, but the aisles are wider than, say, the hellish 83rd level at Barclays. I can't specifically blame NJPac for a world where fools have to leave three times for beer in an 85-minute set. Employers were great. Entry process was quick. Bathrooms are decent, or at least the one I saw. It didn't take that long to get to the upper reaches by elevator or to exit via stairs at the end. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

Excellent theater / concert hall! Our family has attended various concerts and performances in NJPAC, and it never disappoints. The venue offers a clear stage view, great acoustics, and comfortable seating, making every visit a consistently enjoyable experience. It's also a great alternative to the overpriced halls in Manhattan. We're definitely looking forward to visiting again. read more

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Located in the bustling city of Newark, this is a nice performance venue with a nice array of shows. There is paid parking garages in the area and public transportation stops nearby. There was a large lobby to wait in before the doors open. When I went, there were singers as like a pre-entertainment option which was nice. The snack selection is overpriced as expected. The theater is large, and the chairs were much more comfortable than other theaters. The orchestra was on the stage, the acoustics were nice. The modern-looking chandelier rose when showtime started. I was entertained throughout the show, and the seats, though high, were fine to see everything on stage and the prices were okay. Overall, I enjoyed my experience here and will keep an eye out for future performances. read more

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We've been to NJPAC numerous times...but somehow I've never reviewed it. NJPAC is undergoing a huge expansion so there is a construction adjacent to it and they will be starting another addition across the street. This has obviously impacted parking, but they are still running their normal busy schedule. The ticketing process is initially a bit annoying going through Ticketmaster (fees), but getting into the site is very smooth. Inside they always have plenty of staff waiting to assist with directions and getting you to your seat. Tonight we get to see Gregory Porter, who was absolutely fantastic. In fact, I don't remember a single event here that hasn't been fantastic. The snacks and drinks here are pricey, but that's to be expected I suppose. read more

This is a beautiful venue for concerts and shows. For one thing parking is easy. Many lots nearly. Use Spot Hero and you can get parking for $12 two blocks away. It's safe to walk here at night when shows are on. Plenty of police presence. The venue is beautiful. Seats are comfy and all good. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

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had a very disappointing experience at NJPAC. When we arrived, an employee allowed guests seated in Tier 1, Row B (seats 101 and 102) to take our assigned seats (A101 and A102). Instead of resolving the situation properly, we were asked to take their seats without any clear explanation. This was frustrating and made us feel disrespected. If there had been a valid reason--such as a health issue or special accommodation--we would have been understanding and cooperative. However, no explanation was provided, which made the situation feel unreasonable and poorly handled. I hope management takes situations like this more seriously in the future and ensures staff communicate clearly and respectfully with guests. read more

Very cool. I loved the open area w lots of merch, food, and performances before the show. I also loved how there were couches on the outside of the theater on each floor and tvs so if you had a small child, or were volunteering like we were and didn't have seats in the theater, you could relax, chat, etc and still enjoy the show! read more

Loved this auditorium! Sounded so good . Went here for a tamil music show and it was fabulous .. it looked like broadway show .. very good location z right next to Newark and train station. We drove there . Traffic was well controlled . The parking was right next to the auditorium.. was a bit expensive though. Paid about 28$for parking .. Lighting / audio / seating was too good . They had multiple tiers and we were in 2nd floor. View was really good . The ground floor seating was good but the sound was too loud for the lower floor . Tickets were about 100$ !! Food and drinks were prettyyyyyy expensive . They had bars inside and the beer was very expensive . Liked it overall. We had a good time .. read more

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Caught a comedy show. Intimate feel. Easy to get a drink at the bar. Nice accommodations and pleasant ushers. Outside, it's a real attraction with well lit walkways and promenade. Who knew! read more

Love this theater. Beautifully designed. Well kept and clean. Offers plenty of food options with alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages. Large (open) parking lot right next door but plenty of other garages nearby. Located a block off Route 21 ( McCarter Highway) it is easy to get to. I really liked the design of the interior seating plan. Different. All sorts of live entertainment and movies staged here. read more

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Great location for any performance. Lot's of walking and space to hang out. Inside looks kind of old, but it's still nice. read more

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This is more of a review for Ali Wong, but NJPAC was absolutely stunning. I couldn't believe how big the stage was as from the outside the place did not seem that big. In addition, everything was incredibly new and I loved the large chandelier in the middle of the stage. Also, the center is easy to get to from NYC as you can just take NJ Transit trains which are a 13-minute walk away. There's a bunch of restaurants next to the theatre as well! Ali Wong was absolutely incredible! I think it's amazing how her content continues to get better after all of these years. She is so funny and the way that she is able to command the room is like nothing else. During parts of the story, she had the audience on their toes so that you can hear a pin-drop in this giant theater. Honestly, makes me so happy and proud to be an Asian American woman under her presence. Her opener, Sheng Wang was also fantastic as well and I am excited to see his performance when he comes to the East Coast. Cannot say enough great things about Ali Wong and NJPAC. Will definitely be back for more shows as the place is so much easier to get to than I thought. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

I went to see an icon yesterday, Diana Ross was outstanding! I can't believe she was able to perform at the level that she did at the age of 80! She looks so good, I could only dream of looking that good at 80. There was so much energy and excitement at this concert that the crowd was jumping! People were dancing in the aisles and their seats. The show was fantastic, as it brought me back to my childhood. Growing up in Brooklyn and the Bronx from the 60's through the 80's was a great time, the Motown era was when the best music was produced and she was the without a doubt the queen of that era. And she is still the queen! The venue is fantastic with a great views from wherever you sit. Parking is a few steps away and a great place to watch a show. A fantastic night! read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Diana Ross Concert! - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

My mom and I visited this theater to see the show, Shen Yun. All the decent seats were sold out in NYC, so I checked the prices at NJPAC, and they were better and more affordable. My mom is a homebody, so whenever she does want to do something, I try and get her the best. We tried to arrive early but with traffic just a few minutes before the show started. I love that they had street attendants outside directing you where to go. The lines to get in were very long but moved quickly. There were staff everywhere to assist with customer service. When we got inside the theater hall it was so regal and beautiful. Even with the crowds, the place was clean and beautiful. When we arrived at our seats, my mom was very impressed at how close and center we were to the stage. The seats were comfortable, and you didn't feel tight. The show was amazing. We used the bathrooms before we headed out for the long drive back to NYC. They were very clean and there were many places you could go to use them. I would definitely return to check out some other shows at this establishment. read more

Have been here for 2 performances in the past three months.(Sonic Symphony & Bugs Bunny Symphony). A beautiful.venue with convenient parking across the street. The ushers are all very nice and helpful. The venue clean and bright. The acoustics are great. And there really isn't a bad seat in the place. We were in the 1st tier left both times and we could see everything and hear very well, no obstructions. My family had a great time. Would see another performance here again.. read more

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It's been a couple of years since I've been able to see a comedy show here. Every time I go I'm in awe on how grand it is. Treated my husband to a All Star Valentines Day Comedy Show with host Bell Bellamy. We had a great time. We had plenty of laughs. Looking forward to seeing more concerts here in the near future. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - My view - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

Great venue. There's parking adjacent to the building but it's limited. We usually get there early to secure a spot. Otherwise there are other parking lots about one block away. Check in has been relatively quick. It's a beautiful venue with multiple theaters. I love that there are sofas and loveseats nestled along the floors which allow for cozy seating. There is a larger dining area with tables where you could eat your snacks and drinks. Great place to come. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

Was having trouble purchasing accessible seating on Ticketmaster so I decided to call the box office. Big mistake. The lady on the phone was the rudest, she asked me "what's the disability, do they use a wheelchair or walker" when I responded "it's not a viable disorder" she still continued to ask me about the disability until finally I told her it was crowd related. I was trying to explain the issues with Ticketmaster and she cut me off every time I spoke, with a "like I said" even though she didn't get the full details so I tried to give her the seats I was looking at on Ticketmaster, again I was interrupted and I explained I was only trying to help and she was speaking to me like I was ignorant and told me "she's been doing this 18 years" -so I said thanks but no thanks and hung up. BRAVO FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AND ADA COMPLIANCE! read more

This venue is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Newark. It's walking distance from the light rail, PATH, and NJ transit trains. I came for Ancient Aliens Live. I'd never seen the history channel TV show that this event was based on but overall, it was a bit hoaxy and quirky for me. It featured a panel of the show's cast musing about the world's great unexplained mysteries. A bit thought provoking perhaps, but not very educational or engaging. Someone started heckling the stage towards the end of the show and a physical fight broke out afterwards so that made me a bit wary of the whole experience. The theater itself was nice. It was clean with roomy, comfortable seats. It had a lot of balcony seating and seemed to have good views throughout. The staff were friendly and efficient. The center is connected to Nico, a modern American restaurant which is convenient for grabbing a bite before an event. It's also walking distance from several other restaurants including a Kenyan eatery across the street, which I look forward to trying. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Stage post-show - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

The Ushers an otherwise great experience absolutely debilitating. I truly feel bad for my kid who otherwise would've loved it.

Cool place to host a show or concert. The place is not too large like stadium concerts size but it will do for some great smaller concerts or comedy shows. The artwork on the ceiling is very pretty. The seatings are as comfortable as it can be considering the leg room and all. Restrooms are clean. They have cleaning crew and ushers constantly working during the show, checking tickets, moving people along, enforcing no video taping, etc. Parking is available on site for a fee. However like most events, it's a nightmare trying to exit the parking lot. Street closures and cops directing traffic on tops of the mad crowed forgetting how to press on the gas pedal and drive. I highly recommend finding other parking lots within a block or two from NJPac. I guarantee you'll pay about 40% less than the NJPAC lot and you'll beat the traffic at the end of the night. read more

The good was the acoustics and the seats. The bad was the view especially from the box seats and the atrocious prices for refreshments Add to that the distance to the parking All in all - they could do better read more

On Saturday I visited NJPAC to see Deon Cole! He was amazing and he kept the crowd engaged. He's hilarious! I've been to a comedy show before and I must say that Deon Cole is very talented. I was laughing from start to finish. He made a lot of jokes about Newark lol. I wish him much success and I would definitely attend another one of his comedy shows! I definitely had a good time. Deon Cole the next time you're my area I'll be in attendance. I look forward to your next Netflix comedy special. read more

I love this place. If I compare it to MadisonSquare Garden it's just dosent match up. Tonight Comedy Bruce Bruce Luenell Bill Bellamy this show is amazing. I must've been late cause it seemed that the show was only for an hour I don't know. My friends work here I love it. It's so clean the hostess are right there to serve you If you look to the right there's someone to help you if you look to the left there's someone to help you. The ladies room is fit for Queen. read more

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Oh it's been a while since I've been here and must say the experience was just as good as the last! Purchased tickets at their box office a few weeks prior to attending a concert. Attendee was very helpful with locating the best seats available. She even had an oversized auditorium seating picture for a visual. As per the day of the event, lines moved rather quickly. Ushers greeted and guided all to their seats. Once inside, late comers, an usher guided them with mini flashlights to their seats promptly. There is a bar on site to get drinks before and during a show. The lines were long. I recommend checking out Nico's Restaurant for drinks and food as it's located within the Arts Center. Sat in Tier 4 row 4 as that was the only available seats left when purchasing Boyz II Men tickets. To my surprise the view was not bad at all. We did not feel as though seats were steep or super far. The audio was good too. All in all, the experience was good and worth it. Looking forward to return for more performances. read more

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-First Impression- Way bigger than I anticipated! -Service- The staff members I encountered were great, offering to take my picture before the event and just having pleasant conversation. -Price- I assume prices will vary based on event -Did Not Like- Seating could use some updating (layout it great, but the seats themselves are pretty old) -Noteworthy- Front row is REALLY front row lol -Recommended?- Yes read more

It's always a lovely time at NJPAC. I've visited the center to see several performances and the staff are all fantastic with getting you through the door and to your seat. It doesn't hurt that any seat is a good seat, as the way they are situated provides an ease of view no matter where you are. The location is clean, organized, and welcoming with an intimate setting. I cannot recommend this venue enough, you won't be disappointed. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

Very nice very friendly clean perfect for kids and really anyone. We went to see Bluey and my only regret is I didn't realize that this is basically like an Opera house - book your seats accordingly. The staff is patient, fast and kind. I can not praise the fact that the stadium is so clean and just a complete contrast from places we have in New York. I would gladly return and sit a lot closer or in a side balcony. read more

I visited the PAC last Sunday night to see Gladys Knight. Wow what a great show. I've attended several concerts there all great performances. read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Margaret an Joe - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

Great performance arts center. Beautiful architecture. Good staff. Plenty of parking lots surrounding. Some traffic when leaving. read more

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NJPAC is a very nice venue, we attended Ce Ce Winans on Friday 12/20/2024. Excellent performance and great acoustics. Parking is a horror! I prepaid parking inside Military Park directly across the street from NJPAC. Don't park there, park anywhere else. If you have to walk 20 minutes from where you park you will have made a good choice. We waited in the exit line for 50 minutes before getting to the street. I will never park there again. read more

Head of maintenance wonderful clean place to bring the family for great Events. I'm read more

New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Rest in peace, uncle Rich!!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

Beautiful venue and easy to find. Pre pay for your parking online to avoid long lines before or after a show. Seating is comfortable too!