State Theatre presents the Broadway Musical "All Shook Up"

(New Brunswick, NJ) — To celebrate Elvis' 76th birthday, the State Theatre presents the national tour of the Broadway musical All Shook Up on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 3pm and 8pm. With more than 24 Elvis hits performed with a live orchestra and singers, All Shook Up kick starts a chain reaction of romances and rebellion through the power of rock ‘n roll music! Joining the birthday festivities before the start of the 8pm performance will be Elvis impersonators and immediately following the show, free cake will be served in the downstairs theater lobby to all ticketed patrons. All Shook Up tickets range from $32-67.

All Shook Up cast members are Jeremy Giraud Abram, Brooke Aston, Khristy Chamberlain, Megan Cone, Ericka Simone Covington, Paul Crane, Jessica Crouch, Brooke Robyn Dairman, Aubrey Davis, Michael Haller, Sam Hay, Alex Herrera, Luke Jacobs, Ellen Karsten, Brian Kess, Matt Kopec, Ben Martin, Ricky Pope, Caitlyn Renee, and Hannah Zold.

Combining all time favorite Elvis hits with a whole new story full of hilarious twists and turns, All Shook Up is surefire fun for rock n roll rebels of all ages. It's Footloose, Grease, and Happy Days all rolled into one zany story. This isn't an Elvis tribute show… it's better! There's high energy dance numbers and it features more than 24 of The King's greatest hits like "Jailhouse Rock," "Heartbreak Hotel," "One Night With You," "That's All Right," "Don't Be Cruel," "A Little Less Conversation," "Burning Love," "Love Me Tender," "Teddy Bear," "Hound Dog," and more.

It's a square little town until a hip-swivelin', guitar-playin' roustabout kick starts this high energy retro musical that will have everyone jumpin' out of their blue suede shoes. A young mechanic named Natalie dreams of escaping her quiet Midwestern life. When a tall, handsome motorcycle ridin' stranger with blue-suede shoes and a guitar strapped to his back rides into town in search of a mechanic, Natalie's whole life changes. She falls instantly in love with the new stranger, but he won't give her the time of day. So Natalie disguises herself as "one of the guys" to get closer to him. But as Chad brings romance, rebellion and rock n roll into the town, he only has feelings for the shapely Miss Sandra who runs the local museum. Mistaken identities and outlandish who-loves-who mix-ups ensue and the town suddenly bursts to life and creates a feel-good story of crazy love triangles with laugh-out-loud comedy.

For tickets or more information, call the State Theatre ticket office at 732-246-SHOW (7469), or visit us online at www.StateTheatreNJ.org. The State Theatre ticket office, located at 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick NJ, is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 10am to 6pm; Wednesday 11am to 7pm; Saturday 1pm to 5pm; and at least one hour prior to curtain on performance dates. For information on group outings and discounts, call 732-247-7200, ext. 517.

From Good Homes Continues Reunion With Two Special Shows At The Wellmont Theatre

(Sparta, NJ) -- The members of From Good Homes will continue the band's Reunion with a weekend of shows at the Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, NJ on December 17th & 18th . The Wellmont Theatre was the site of From Good Homes's reunion in 2009 over 2 sold out shows after a 10 year hiatus, of which Relix Magazine said the band's "playing still feels as fresh and invigorating as it ever was".

Since the initial 2009 Reunion, the band has headlined The Mighty High Festival in Tuxedo, NY and performed a headline show at The Music Box at The Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa in Atlantic City over this past Labor Day weekend. The band just performed a ‘secret show' at the Stanhope House in Stanhope, NJ on Thanksgiving Eve under the moniker "Jefferson Township".

"We've had such a great time gettin' back together and playing last year, so it just felt right to return to the Wellmont and crank it up again," says bassist Brady Rymer. "We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response, and it has been amazing to reconnect with fans and friends we hadn't seen in a long time. We're planning to ramp up the energy and spirit a little further and get the Wellmont shakin' even harder this year!"

Tickets for the shows are $28 in advance and $33 on the day of show. They are on sale now at www.tickets.com. More information is available at www.wellmonttheatre.com and www.fromgoodhomes.com.

The band will also be releasing a DVD that was filmed at last year's sold out reunion shows. The 8 camera shoot is a collection of highlights from the weekend of shows. It will be available at the Wellmont Theatre at www.fromgoodhomes.com/store. For a sneak peek of "Let Go" and "I Only Want" from the DVD- click here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtDVKi1dIaA) or here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PP6Ck8dF4K8).

The genesis of From Good Homes dates back to a high school band, when childhood friends Todd Sheaffer, Brady Rymer, and Patrick Fitzsimmons came together in rural, Northwestern New Jersey. Originally called "Old Crow", and later evolving into "The Dogs", the core line-up remained. With the addition of Dan Myers in 1988, and Jamie Coan in 1990, the band From Good Homes was fully formed.

Named after a judge's explanation for leniency after the young band broke in to a club to finish their set, the band "from good homes" released 5 albums during their career- 3 of which were released by RCA Records. Their upbeat approach, solid songwriting, and unique sound allowed them to quickly develop a dedicated following on the touring circuit. The band performed over 1,500 shows across North America, including tours with Dave Matthews Band, Ratdog featuring Bob Weir and shows with Bob Dylan, Guster, Widespread Panic, Hootie & The Blowfish, Blues Traveler and many more.  Bringing together rock, jazz, folk, celtic and jam-band influences under one umbrella, rooted in Todd Sheaffer's inspired songwriting, From Good Homes forged their own, instantly lovable music. Their unique style prompted one critic to affectionately label the band's blend of influences as "Hick-Pop".

After disbanding in 1999, band members went on to embark on individual projects. Todd Sheaffer formed the bluegrass-influenced Railroad Earth, which has released 5 records, with a 6th coming out this fall, and continues to sell-out shows throughout North America. After starting a family of his own, Brady Rymer began a career making music for children and families; his most recent release "Here Comes Brady Rymer and the Little Band that Could" was nominated for a 2009 Grammy Award in the Best Musical Album for Children category. Drummer Patrick Fitzsimmons has had a very successful run as a singer/songwriter, releasing 5 records independently and touring regularly in the Northeast. Saxophonist Dan Myers runs a production company, Dirt Floor Studio, and has worked on records with Adam Green, Sam Champion, as well as with Rymer and Fitzsimmons. He also appeared as a guest soloist on "Live Trax Vol. 16" the latest live release from Dave Matthews Band. Multi-instrumentalist Jamie Coan continues to write, perform and record and currently plays with the bands Red Top Ramblers and Sweetgrass in the Charleston, SC area and also performs as half of the Folly Beach Rhythm Section which backs up Samuel David Owens.

From Good Homes is:
Todd Sheaffer – lead vocals, acoustic guitar, harmonica
Brady Rymer – bass, vocals
Patrick Fitzsimmons – drums, vocals
Dan Myers – saxophones, melodica, vocals
Jamie Coan – acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin, vocals

Cape May Stage Offers a Sign-Interpreted Performance for The Little Prince

(Cape May, NJ) - Cape May Stage, Cape May's premier professional Equity theatre, with the generous support of PNC Arts Alive, is proud to announce a spectacular evening of live theatre on Wednesday, December 29.  Theatrical interpreters for the Deaf Celeste Herse and Anne Maselli will interpret the Stage's 8:00 pm performance of one of the world's best-loved tales, The Little Prince. The ASL signed performance will take place at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse at Bank and Lafayette Streets.

Herse, a local interpreter in the South Jersey area, is thrilled to return to the Stage this fall after previously interpreting several of the Stage's productions last season.  "I love theater because it takes you to different places and signing performances is such a unique experience. As an interpreter, not only do you have to listen, but also translate and communicate each emotion like an actor to make the story come alive," explains Herse.  Herse will be joined on stage with theatrical interpreter and colleague, Anne Maselli. "Having a partner to work with on stage creates great interaction.  It's more meaningful for the Deaf to see two people interpreting and it's a lot of fun," states Herse.

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's simple tale of a wayward prince has become one of the most beloved stories of all time, having been translated from the original French into over 180 languages, spawning scores of adaptations, including multiple films, songs, and at least one opera.  Ostensibly a children's story, the prince's travels throughout the universe bring him into contact with several flawed adults, each of whom bears a condemnable character defect.  From the King who believes he can control the stars by commanding them to travel their paths in the sky to the Drunkard who drinks to forget that he is ashamed of his drinking, from the Conceited Man who cannot hear anything that is not a compliment to the Geographer who spends his life at his desk drawing maps of places he'll never see, each of these characters bear regrettable traits we might find in our own inventory if we search hard enough.  Only the Lamplighter, the sole resident of an asteroid that oscillates between dark and night once a minute, is considered noble, as the prince sees in his charge to light the lamp each night to be a noble endeavor – the Lamplighter places something other than himself at the center of his universe.  The prince eventually travels to Earth, where he learns valuable lessons about individuality and love, and the responsibilities involved therein.  His adventures on Earth bring to bear a harsh mirror to the human existence, commenting on the futility of the rat race and the disconnect we share with one another.  In the end, The Little Prince presents to us an unmistakable plea to keep what's important in life close to your heart.

This new adaptation by John Scoullar and Rick Cummins is directed and conceived by Scott Hitz, and features puppets by multiple Emmy Award-winning designer Michael Schupbach of Jim Henson's Muppet Workshop.

PNC Financial Services Group is the presenting sponsor of Cape May Stage's ASL Interpreted Performance. The support is part of PNC Arts Alive, a five-year, $5 million investment from The PNC Foundation to help area residents gain access to the arts, and help arts organizations expand and engage audiences.

The Little Prince featuring theatrical interpreters is scheduled for Wednesday, December 29 at 8:00 PM. at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse at the corner of Bank & Lafayette Streets in downtown Cape May.   Performances are November 26 through December 31, 2010, Thursdays –Sundays, 8PM Saturdays & Sundays, 3PM.  Tickets are $35 adults ($40 on Saturday evenings), $30 seniors, and $12.50 students. Call (609) 884-1341 for reservations and information or visit the theatre's Web site, www.capemaystage.com.

This production is generously sponsored by the Blue Pig Tavern at Congress Hall and The Ebbitt Room at the Virginia.  This season's sponsors include 410 Bank Street/Frescos, Exit Zero, The Washington Inn, Cape May Winery, and Lucky Bones.

New Jersey School Raises $17,500 for Holiday Express in the Spirit of Giving

(TINTON FALLS, NJ) -- Ranney School teamed up with Holiday Express on December 8th to host its second annual Evening with Holiday Express concert for the Ranney community in RSPA Panther Hall. Last year's holiday-themed event filled students, parents, faculty and friends with the spirit of giving and raised approximately $16,000. This year, the Ranney School topped that amount and reached $17,500 – the school donated each $50 concert ticket to Holiday Express – and continued its quest to help those in need during the holiday season and throughout the year. 

Founded by restaurateur Tim McLoone, Holiday Express is an organization comprised of 1,300 volunteers—and 80 or more professional musicians—that travel throughout the Tri-State area delivering music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to adults and children who are physically and mentally disabled, living with AIDS or homeless.

On November 11, members of the Ranney School student body, including 25 Upper School students, visited Holiday Express headquarters located in Tinton Falls. During their field trip, students helped organize the warehouse and assembled "gift bags" – Holiday Express is aiming to provide 15,000 "gift bags" to those in need this year. In addition, Ranney's brownie troop, consisting of students grades two through five, traveled to Holiday Express headquarters to donate bags of Halloween candy to the group.

"Our dedicated staff members at Ranney encourage students to abide by the school's motto of 'Knowledge, Vision, Honor,' and give back through service to the community," said Head of School, Dr. Lawrence S. Sykoff. "We are extremely proud of the dedication of our students, parents, and alumni as we embrace this season of giving."

With the help of student-volunteers, the Ranney School Parents' Association held a bazaar known as the "Snowflake Market" on December 2 and 3, donating $2,000 of all proceeds to the philanthropic organization. The Ranney community, driven by the Ranney School Parents' Association, is also working to collect three items on the Holiday Express' wish list this season.

Students across Ranney's Upper, Middle and Lower School divisions are combining creativity and hard work in an effort to collect socks, toothbrushes and scarves for those in need. So far, the Lower School has collected more than 500 scarves, toothbrushes and socks, whereas the Upper School has collected more than 200 items from the list. Although it has already received over 1,000 pairs of socks from within the Ranney community, the Middle School division will continue its collection at a "New York Sock Exchange" dance on Friday, December 10. During the event, students will have the option to pay a $10 admissions fee, or bring a 3-pack (or more) of adult crew socks and instead pay $5 to enter the dance.

Holiday Express is one of many organizations that Ranney School students are supporting. Children will also send greeting cards and letters to hospitals and members of the armed services through the American Red Cross, and donate holiday gifts through Toys for Tots and the Trinity Episcopal Church in Asbury Park this season. Whether hosting a holiday concert and selling merchandise to raise money for charity, donating items to those in need, or submitting holiday cards and letters to hospitals and soldiers, Ranney School, a premier independent institution providing 50 years of academic excellence throughout southern New Jersey, continues its long tradition of supporting the community throughout the year.

Founded in 1960 and serving more than 800 boys and girls, from Beginners (age 3) through grade 12, Ranney School is an independent, college preparatory day school located in historic Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Under its motto "Knowledge, Vision, Honor," Ranney School strives to provide an exceptional academic experience in which every child is known and valued. It emphasizes modern methods of instruction, small class sizes and traditional educational values. Ranney is hosting an Open House on its campus January 8, 2011. For more information, please visit www.ranneyschool.org.

State Theatre Presents: Salute to Vienna - New Year's Concert 2011

(New Brunswick, NJ) — State Theatre presents the return of the New Year's Concert, Salute to Vienna on Friday, December 31, 2010 at 6pm. This glorious celebration features a brilliant new cast of over 75 musicians, European singers and dancers including The Strauss Symphony of America, led by European maestro Klaus Arp; Polish soprano Katarzyna Dondalska; Hungarian tenor Dániel Vadász; and members of the Kiev-Aniko Ballet of Ukraine. This performance includes a musical bouquet of favorite polkas and famous operetta excerpts by "Waltz King" Johann Strauss Jr. and his contemporaries. Special New Year's Eve ticket/restaurant/hotel packages with The Heldrich, Stage Left, Catherine Lombardi, Due Mari, Zeina, and/or Crown Plaza are available. To purchase NYE packages, call 732-247-7200, ext. 517. Salute to Vienna concert tickets  range from $47-97.

Entering its 17th season, the Salute to Vienna (STV) concert series has become a favorite holiday musical tradition throughout North America. It is delightfully reminiscent of Vienna's famous and beloved Neujahrskonzert, performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra for over 70 years and televised annually to 1.3 billion people around the globe. Over the past decade, STV has grown into the largest live concert series of its kind in North America under the leadership of Attila and Marion Glatz, co-Presidents of AGCP, the founders and producers of this unique New Year's tradition.

In 1995, AGCP premiered STV in Toronto's Roy Thomson Hall. By 2004, the show was being presented in 33 major concert halls over a five-day period across the continent, including sold-out performances in Los Angeles (Walt Disney Concert Hall), Philadelphia (Kimmel Center), Washington, D.C. (Kennedy Center), New York City (Lincoln Center), Boston (Symphony Hall), Montreal (Place des Arts), Vancouver (Orpheum Theatre) and Calgary (Jack Singer Concert Hall). SALUTE TO VIENNA is the only genuine re-creation of the original Viennese production and is officially recognized by the Mayor of Vienna as an authentic Viennese New Year's celebration.

For tickets or more information, call the State Theatre ticket office at 732-246-SHOW (7469), or visit us online at www.StateTheatreNJ.org. The State Theatre ticket office, located at 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick NJ, is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 10am to 6pm; Wednesday 11am to 7pm; Saturday 1pm to 5pm; and at least one hour prior to curtain on performance dates. For information on group outings and discounts, call 732-247-7200, ext. 517.

The State Theatre, a premier nonprofit venue for the performing arts and entertainment. The theater exists to enrich people's lives, contribute to a vital urban environment, and build future audiences by presenting the finest performing artists and entertainers and fostering lifetime appreciation for the performing arts through education. The State Theatre's programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals. Continental Airlines is the official airline of the State Theatre. The Heldrich is the official hotel of the State Theatre. Magic 98.3 is the official radio station of the State Theatre. The Star-Ledger is the official newspaper of the State Theatre.

The Theater Project's 9th Annual Young Playwrights Competition Now Seeking Submissions from NJ High School Student Playwrights

(Cranford, NJ) -- The Theater Project, Union County College's Professional Theater Company, is accepting submissions for its 9th annual Young Playwrights' Competition. The competition seeks original works only, no adaptations.  All submissions must be at least 10 but no more than 30 pages typed in play format, and all entrants must be New Jersey residents in secondary schools (ages 13 to 18). Entries must be postmarked by January 31, 2011.

The winning scripts will be performed in March 2011 by The Theater Project during the state-wide Family Week at the Theater celebration of theater and New Jersey's youth. Monetary prizes and certificates will be awarded at that time to all winning authors. First place will receive a $600 savings bond, second place will receive a $400 savings bond and third place will receive a $200 savings bond.

The goal of the Young Playwrights' Competition is to encourage the next generation of theater practitioners and audience by honoring their work and bringing it to life. The competition was inspired by a generous donation from Linden resident Bill Mesce, Jr., an award-winning playwright and screenwriter, whose recent novel The Advocate was published by Bantam Books.

How to Enter: By January 31, 2011, please submit a 10-30 page script to The Theater Project, Union County College, 1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, NJ, 07016 or e-mail to TheaterProject@aol.com. All entries must include a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope), a 50 word biography of the author including contact information, and the $5 entrance fee (check or money order, payable to THE THEATER PROJECT) which can be sent via snail mail for emailed scripts. Only one entry per author. Please remember that yo

Two River Theater Company Presents A Cabaret Performance of New Songs for the Musical Theater on Thursday, December 9

(Red Bank, NJ) — Two River Theater Company announces that, in partnership with New York University's Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program, a dozen composers and lyricists will showcase original songs for the musical theater at a Cabaret at Two River Theater on Thursday, December 9 at 7:30 pm.

These songs, all written by graduates or faculty of NYU's acclaimed master's degree program, will be performed by musical theater talent including B.D. Wong, a Tony Award winner for M. Butterfly and star of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Wong will perform two songs, including one from the musical The Ballad of Little Jo, written by Sarah Schlesinger, Chair of the program, and composer Mike Reid. Among the other singers featured in the Cabaret are Sandy Binion and Sally Wilfert, who were previously seen on stage together in the William Finn revue, Make Me a Song.

Other songwriting talents who will offer new songs are composer/lyricists Kirsten Childs (The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin) and Joe Iconis (winner of the Jonathan Larson Award, the Ed Kleban Award and a Backstage Bistro Award). The team of lyricist Nathan Tysen and composer Chris Miller will perform from their musical The Mysteries of Harris Burdick.

The Cabaret is a prelude to new artistic programming in Two River's intimate second performance space, the Marion Huber Theater, under the leadership of the company's new Artistic Director, John Dias. In 2011, Two River will kick off a six-month festival of new plays and original musicals, which will be developed during residencies culminating in staged readings and workshops that are free and open to the public.  Additional information, including participating artists and dates, will be announced early next year.

Interview with Jon Caspi about his new record, new band - The First Gun

by Gary Wien

Tell me about the new band - The First Gun.  How did you come up with the name?

I'll start with the name and then explain the reason we starting using it. The invention of the gun is probably one of the top-5 major events in human history. It altered power structures, interpersonal relationships, changed the way we eat, and so on. It made killing easy...for better and for worse. Of course, as a songwriter, I would love to have such a major impact on the world...partly the reason for the name. I often wondered about who created the first gun and for what reason? I have tried to research it, but it seems no one knows. Was it made for hunting? War? Scientific curiosity?

We decided to begin using this moniker this past April when our longstanding bassist, Ken Kraut, had to, sadly, leave the band as a full-time member. It was a major loss for me but also an opportunity to try to redefine the direction of our sound. Our guitar player, Doug Lane, took over on bass and we formally became "The First Gun."


There's been a change in band members, hasn't there?  Who is in the new band? Did the change in lineup lend the band's sound to veer a new direction?

Not a member change as much as a "who does what" change. Doug, who was on guitar, is also a highly talented bassist. He had substituted for Ken prior to becoming part of the band so I knew how good he was. We talked about searching for a new bassist, or guitarist, but after a few rehearsals it became clear that the trio had a pretty cool sound of its own. Doug's playing is quite different from Ken's and it has changed our sound in important ways. I have also been wanting to do a more straight-ahead rock record, so the change in sound was also intention...not just a byproduct of a change in bassists.

 This record is a bit more punk than in the past.  Who are some of the punk bands you've followed through the years?

Quite a few actually. Ramones, Bouncing Souls, NOFX, Buzzcocks, Dead Kennedys, Bad Religion, CH3, Rancid, The Living End, Piebald... lately the Bouncing Souls have been in heavy rotation on my player...can't get enough.  Also, some new acts:  Off With Their Heads, and other punk influenced bands -- Gaslight Anthem, Lemuria... and of course Gene Vincent & The Blue Caps  -- in my mind the first punk band...


How did your trip to Africa and the adoption of your new song play a role in the songs on the record or the overall idea behind the record?

Interesting question! Well, I didn't start the record intending any of it to be about adoption, but the adoption happened while we were recording.  Adoption is a powerful experience and it started to show up in my lyrics.  I had these unbelievable and somewhat strange experiences during the trip to Africa to adopt my son and thought to myself, "This would make an interesting song."  The title track, Strange Situation, is a good example. With international adoption you first get a few photos and maybe a video or your future child. After having this picture, you wait many months, then on rather short notice (at least in our case) you are told to fly halfway across the world. The day I landed I was taken straight to the orphanage and introduced to my son (then 8 months old). It was a pretty strange situation - holding a child for the first time while onlookers watched, and thinking this is my child. It must have been even stranger for him...flown back to a strange country to live in a strange house with new people, foods, smells, and so on. It was a strange situation on many levels....but one of the best experiences I have ever had, and probably ever will.


For the record release, you chose a rather unique way of presenting the show with an almost "Behind The Music" look on the making of the record.  Was that planned all along or something you decided to do after the record was released?

As you know, my last album, Eddie Knows! was a "rock novel" and told a complete story with each song a chapter of the tale. The ShowRoom Theater in Asbury Park contacted me to stage the album as a multimedia production which included live performance, video, interview and musical theater numbers with actors. It was a lot of fun and quite successful. After it was over, the theater owners Mike & Nancy, talked to me about "What next?" and Mike had this great idea to do a multimedia behind the music type show. After hearing his idea I thought it would be great for an album release event as there are always stories to tell in creating albums...so, we ended up doing it for Strange Situation. It was a fun, and happy to say, a sold out night .


You've taking some rather big gambles with your last few records from the concept of Eddie Knows to a different sound with "Strange Situation".  Was the difference between your last three records just a coincendence or something you wanted to do?  Do you already have plans for the next record? If so, will it be going in a completely new direction?

It is validating to hear that others see my efforts as gambles because it felt that way to me too. Eddie Knows! was a very thought out album in terms of lyrics, story, and the music. Each song had to match the intensity of the lyrics and I spent a great deal of time mapping it and recording it. It was also a very lush album in that it includes many layers of instrumentation and vocals - to create various soundscapes. After Eddie Knows!  I really wanted to rock out a bit and do a more straight ahead and edgier record. So, I decided to almost do a 180 and do almost no layering and worrying about every second of the recording -- to go for a more natural and organic sound. And, as you noted, my punk influences starting coming through and so we went with them. It was very intentional and I have to say, at the moment, I am really enjoying this direction a great deal. We have already begun working on the next album which is even more punk influenced with many very fast tracks...straight up, old school punk...  after that, I am thinking of a more 60's soul influenced record...seriously...but we'll see...like I said, this punk/indie style we are in now is the most fun I have had playing music in a long time.


Where is the record available? (Online, local stores, venues, etc.)

Online, almost everywhere...iTunes, Interpunk, Amazon, eMusic, CDBaby, etc.  In stores, the album is available at Hold Fast Records in Asbury Park and Espresso Joe's in Keyport, NJ. Hold Fast has our hoodies and t-shirts too.  Links to all these places can be found on my website:  www.JonCaspi.com


Finally, tell me about promoting the record as an indie artist.  What are some of the most difficult aspects of the process? What can fans of yours do to help?

This is an interesting question. Promoting releases these days has become quite complicated and a real challenge. A few years ago there were fairly clear steps you could take to get the word out in an organized way -- hit the arts papers, fanzines, college radio, etc.  With the popularity of the internet, most of these places are either mostly gone or de-legitimized. It's unclear how folks find and connect with new music these days. Since my album has some themes, some of the promotion has been related to them. Because, for example, a number of the songs on the album are related to my adoption experience, our release event was tied to that as well as some of our other promotional efforts. We are currently looking at other promotional markets and doing some tours, perhaps abroad. We also do free downloads from time to time.

To answer the second question, fans can help by spreading the word -- burn, rip or whatever a copy of some songs you like and share it with people who have not heard it yet. Word of mouth is really helpful. Bring your friends, workmates, relatives, enemies, anyone... to shows...that's helpful too.

NEW JERSEY WELCOMES A WORLD BOXING CHAMPION!

The US Premiere of 'Risen' the true life story of Welsh boxer Howard Winstone will happen on January 21st 2011 as part of the prestigious New Jersey International Film Festival!

Director Neil Jones and the films lead actor Stuart Brennan will be attending the event that is already seeing tickets snapped up. This will be the first screening in the US and will see Brennan, who was made an official World Boxing Champion by the WBC earlier this year in recognition of his dedication to the role, bring his world title to the event, so audience members can get a memorable picture taken holding aloft the belt!

The film is expected to be a big hit on the festival circuit after a massive 2000+ audience and over 100 world champion boxers attended it's UK Premiere in Cardiff in July. It was followed up by a sell out VIP Premiere in Mexico City, with 5 time world champion Erik Morales in attendance.

The film has a number of well known faces in it including 'Fringe' star John Noble, British TV star Shane Richie (best known for his role on long running TV show 'Eastenders') and features more world champions that any other film in history!

The movie tells the incredible true story of boxer Howard Winstone who lost three fingers on his right hand at the age of 16 and yet went on to win every honour in his division, including a world title! And all of this while his marriage goes through the tough tests that fame and fortune brings.

Taking over 5 years to make, the movie was a work of passion and a huge commitment for the Producers and Director Neil Jones. "The experience was the toughest professional experience of my life, but to see the finished product getting standing ovations from audiences now and meaning so much to the people of Wales and around the world, it's all been worth it." said Neil.

Set in 1950's and 60's Britain the movie has captured the essence of an era and great lengths were gone to with the production design of the movie for it to be as authentic as possible. The same authenticity was demanded of the boxing, which was full contact with the actor Stuart Brennan trading blows with world champion boxers in the ring to ensure the fight scenes are as realistic, fast and furious as possible.

New Jersey has a great history of world boxing champions and actor Stuart Brennan was quick to point this out: "Having the US Premiere in New Jersey is really fitting. The state has had so many great world champions, such as Arturo Gatti and The Hurricane Ruben Carter, it's truly a perfect setting. We're very proud to be a part of the festival and will be dressed up for the occasion!"

Risen – A Feature Film
The true life story of boxer Howard Winstone's rise from losing his fingers at the age of 16 to lifting a world title. Shot in full HD in the UK over the past five years and supported by the World Boxing Council and Ringside, it is Burn Hand Film Productions seventh feature film.

New Jersey International Film Festival – held at Rutgers, the screening will be at the Voorhees hall. Group tickets can be booked in advance by calling: 732-932-8482.

New Jersey Film Festival -- Spring 2011

New Jersey Film Festival -- Spring 2011

Thursday-January 20-Ruth Adams Bldg. #001-6PM $10/$9/$8
Eadweard Muybridge, Zoopraxographer  - Thom Anderson, Fay Anderson, Morgan Fisher
A brilliant, innovative film about the origins of cinema and its most famed forefather, Eadweard Muybridge. Over the course of a decade, filmmaker Thom Andersen animated Muybridge's landmark photographic studies of humans and animals in motion. Interpolated with these incredible sequences are biographical sections detailing Muybridge's personal and professional struggles, narrated by Dean Stockwell. Drawing the contrasts between Muybridge's reclusive live and the explosive, very public birth of cinema, this is both a film about cinematic history and a work of art in itself. 1975; 60 min. With commentary by Festival Director Albert G. Nigrin. Part of the Rutgers University American Film Directors course.

Friday-January 21-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
 Crawdad - Kelly Stephenson
Estrangements worsened by war shape the narrative of this short, sensitively rendered film. Forced to move into her grandparents' farmhouse while her military father is deployed overseas, a young girl named Beth struggles to understand the strained relationships within her family.  The situation is compounded when Beth's grandparents take in a drifter who helps with odd jobs around the farm in exchange for a place to sleep. 2010; 16 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Kelly Stephenson!

Risen - Neil Jones
Set in 1960's Britain, this feature film based on a true story is propelled by lightning-fast cinematography and superbly choreographed boxing scenes. When Howard Winstone loses three fingers on his right hand at the age of 16, it seems that his impressive amateur boxing career will come to an end. Fighting on with sheer determination, as he can make a fist only with one hand, he goes on to win every boxing title in his division and  stands to become the champion of the world..  As he reaches the height of his success, his marriage begins to suffer under the pressure of his growing fame. Featuring more boxing world champions than any other film in history, this is a story that deserves to be seen. 2010; 121 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Neil Jones and Producer/Actor Stuart Brennan!

Saturday-January 22-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Charlie and the Rabbit - Rodrigo Ojeda-Beck and Robert Machoian
Charlie, a 4-year-old fan of Bugs Bunny cartoons, decides to go out and find a rabbit of his own.2010; 10 min.

Our Beautiful Mountain – Vincent DiVito
Satirizing a Ronald Reagan political ad from 1984, Our Beautiful Mountain centers on a group of four young hunters who live on a freezing mountain. Grasswater, the maniacal leader of the troop, is convinced that the successful hunt of one particular bear will ensure everyone's survival in a bleak, post-industrial world. The outcome is not what he predicted. 2010; 25 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Vincent DiVito and Producer/Actor Brian McElroy!

Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone - Christopher Metzler and Lev Anderson
Emerging out of the shifting fault lines of the economic and racial tensions of Reagan's America, Fishbone rose to become one of the most original bands of the last 25 years. With a blistering combination of punk and funk they challenged the racial stereotypes and political order of both the music industry and the nation. Narrated by actor Laurence Fishburne. 2010; 103 min. With in-person appearances by Directors Christopher Metzler and Lev Anderson!*

Sunday-January 23-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Urva - Emre Ozdemir
Set in a remote Turkish village called Urva, this short documentary extols the vanishing aesthetic of a soon-to be-lost culture. In Turkish, subtiled.2010; 13 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Emre Ozdemir!

Atlantic Crossing: A Robot's Daring Mission - Dena Seidel
Paced like an action thriller, and graced with stunning undersea footage, Atlantic Crossing tracks visionary oceanographer Scott Glenn as he leads a team of scientists and engineers at Rutgers University's Coastal Ocean Observation Lab (The COOL Room) to launch the first transatlantic underwater robot. Officially known as RU27, and nicknamed "Scarlet", this glider robot is set to explore the vast uncharted waters of the North Atlantic with the aim of monitoring and predicting climate change.  Equipped with as yet untested hardware, Scarlet faces daunting challenges. When unknown ocean organisms stop Scarlet in her underwater trek, the scientists risk their lives in the high seas of the mid-Atlantic to try to save her and the mission. 2010; 82 min. With in-person appearances by Director Dena Seidel and Producer Rick Ludescher!

Friday-January 28-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Broken Clouds - Yuri Alves
At once poignant and hopeful, this short film is set in a not so distant future, when plants refuse to grow, and life as we know it ceases to exist. A forsaken survivor miraculously resists death, roaming past the decaying corpses and the vestiges of our bygone world. Sustained by the memory of his lost lover, he embarks on a mission to plant three seeds which he is convinced will have the power to restart life on the planet. 2010; 21 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Yuri Alves!

The Red Machine - Stephanie Argy and Alec Boehm
A sly and stylish spy thriller set in Washington, DC, at the height of the Great Depression. An irrepressible young thief, who is long on charm yet short with the truth, is forced to help an icy Navy spy steal a brand new device that the Japanese military is using to encode its top-secret messages. During the mission, complicated by the spy's dark deeds in Tokyo, the two discover that they are pawns in a more sinister game. Together, they devise an intricate scheme to outwit their handlers. Roger Ebert calls The Red Machine "a lean, intense thriller." Starring Rutgers alumnus Donal Thoms-Cappello. 2010; 84 min. With an in-person appearance by Donal Thoms-Cappello!

Saturday-January 29-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Surviving Hunger - Balgum Song
In this short animation, a huge frog-like creature is desperately hungry and hopes that a cute little furry thing will become his next meal. 2010; 3 min.

Kings - Barbara Mones
A short animation about two elderly men who try to resolve an escalating conflict by playing a card game called WAR. The prospects for peace at not favorable. 2010; 7 min.

Bike Race - Tom Schroeder
An animated documentary about two friends who decide to stage a bicycle race to determine who is the best racer of all time, Eddy Merck or Lance Armstrong. A love triangle develops during the race and the stakes of winning become all the greater. 2010; 12 min.

The Gift of the Magi - Toshikazu Ishii
A touching animation from Japan about an apprentice magician and his loving wife who does the unthinkable to fulfill his wishes on Christmas day. 2010;13 min.

Living for 32 - Kevin Breslin
Living for 32 is the inspirational story of Colin Goddard, a survivor of the horrific shooting massacre that took place on the Virginia Tech campus in 2007 which left 32 dead and 17 injured. Summoning an astonishing optimism and passion for life, Colin shares an intimate account of the terror that he and his classmates endured and the remarkable journey of renewal and hope that he chose to pursue. 2010; 40 min.
With an in-person appearance by Director Kevin Breslin and Producer Maria Cuomo Cole!

Sunday-January 30-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Gizmo Kaleidoscope - Susan Shaw
Optical and mechanical -- rotating, tumbling, reassembling, rearranging, arrested and in flux, loose and continuous – this is an ode to Coney Island and its denizens in patterns of shape, color, and sound. 2010; 3 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Susan Shaw!

Arthur and Friends Greenhouse Project – Michael Cheski
An engaging short documentary about a greenhouse on the New Jersey State fairgrounds in Sussex County that  has become a place of  healing for disabled adults. As the workers raise hydroponic lettuce, arugula, basil and other greens for nearby restaurants, schools, and supermarkets, they are also transforming their own lives.  Just over a year old, the project has proven so successful that two new greenhouses have opened in Orange and Hackettstown, New Jersey with additional ones planned. 2010; 12 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Michael Cheski!

10 Days of Rain- Sean Webley
An intense short film about a guilt-stricken artist who tries to make amends with a past that he can't even remember and to fill in the holes of a mystery that is tearing him apart. 2010; 20 min.

Cash Crop – Adam Ross
Going undercover for a year and a half, filmmaker Adam Ross delves into the production of marijuana, which is now America's number one cash crop, generating an estimated $35 billion a year in profits. Cash Crop takes viewers along California's West Coast from the historic Spanish Camino Real, then past the last mission outpost, to the heart of the so-called Emerald Triangle of Northern California where pot now reigns supreme. Operating just within and outside the law, marijuana growers wrestle with issues of entrepreneurship, greed, and sustainability in the Golden State but their concerns are less about getting high than and much more about the nitty-gritty of maintaining supply and demand in an increasingly competitive market. 2010; 88 min.

Saturday-February 5-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Shaft or Sidney Poitier - Jonathan Gayles
Critically examining the manner in which African-American men were first portrayed as superheroes in American comic books, Shaft or Sidney Poitier deftly illuminates broader societal conceptions about representations of black masculinity in the popular culture. Through interviews with artists, scholars and cultural critics, this documentary makes clear that black superheroes ranged from the humorous, to the offensive, to the tragic, but never strayed too far from common stereotypes. 2010; 56 min.

Deforce - Daniel Falconer
For decades, Detroit has been an emblem of urban decay—from its dismal high school graduation rate, to its  corrupt politicians, to its staggering crime rate.  Deforce takes a new perspective on this much maligned city: as it delves into the largely untold how and why of these problems. Looking beyond over-reported factors like the decline of the American auto industry, director Daniel Falconer explores the systemic divisions at the core of Detroit's crisis. The conditions revealed and the history explored are, at once, specific to Detroit, and universally shared with nearly all of America's poorest, forgotten urban centers. 2010; 96 min.

Thursday-February 10-Ruth Adams Bldg. #001-6PM $10/$9/$8
Films by Stan Brakhage 
Stan Brakhage is one of the most important figures in 20th-century American experimental film. Over the course of five decades, he explored a variety of formats, approaches, and techniques that included handheld camerawork, painting directly onto celluloid, fast cutting, in-camera editing, scratching on film and the use of multiple exposures. Interested in mythology and inspired by music, poetry and visual phenomena, Brakhage sought to reveal the universal in the particular, exploring themes of birth, mortality, sexuality  and innocence.

His films are intensely expressive and lyrical. Some of the films to be screened include new film prints of Mothlight, Fire of Waters, Creation, Prelude: Dog Star Man and others. 1959-1979; 70 min. With commentary by Festival Director Albert G. Nigrin. Part of the Rutgers University American Film Directors course.

Friday-February 11-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
One and Stuck - TJ Thyne
Two short films ostensibly about one action that inevitably leads to a reaction.  In One, a middle aged man, alone in his car, becomes incapable of seeing anything but...one. 2010; 4 min. In Stuck, two men, are stuck in their mundane lives, without a way out., but in a single moment, they have the chance to alter their state of existence. 2010; 6 min. With in-person appearances by Director/Actor TJ Thyne and Producer/Actor Dave Kuhr!

Ending In Jersey – Andrew Skean
A road trip from Florida to New Jersey unexpectedly parallels the course of the troubled relationship between a young couple. 2010; 12 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Andrew Skean!

Things That Can Kill You – Andrew Johnson
A sardonic documentary about a young woman who texts herself to death. 2010; 15 min. With an in-person appearance by Andrew Johnson!

Doggy...Doggy - Raymond Yeung
A dark comedy about a man who descends into despair about his missing dog. As he moves through the streets of Manhattan, and sees women walking their pets, he sinks ever deeper into isolation. 2009; 19 min. With an in-person appearance by Director Raymond Yeung!

Heart of Now- Zak Forsman
Beautifully shot and acted, Heart of Now is a debut feature film that explores the agony of a shattering loss and the prospect of transcendence. Amber is a young woman with a profound longing for a sense of family. Discovering that she is pregnant, and abandoned by her boyfriend, she seeks a safe haven in Gabe – the father figure that left her and her dying mother a decade ago. Stripped of any possibility for self-deception, she confronts the root causes of her suffering and frees herself in a brief, transcendent moment at the very heart of now. 2010; 89 min.

Saturday-February 12-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Vento - Marcio Salem
A haunting short film set in an isolated town in Brazil where the people begin to act strangely once the winds cease to blow. In the middle of this eerie stillness, a boy nurtures his dream of escape. In Portuguese, subtitled. 2010; 15 min.

Estacio de l'oblit (Station of the forgotten) - Christian Molina and Sandra Serna
An eloquent feature film centered on the relationship between an elderly sailor, his granddaughter, and a troubled boy who unexpectedly become travelling companions, trekking toward a lighthouse on the Cape of Creus, the easternmost point of mainland Spain. At the end of their unlikely journey, will the sailor reunite with his loved ones? Will the adolescent boy find his place in the community? And will the sailor's granddaughter find herself?  Station of the Forgotten is a journey to the end of the world told with tenderness and quiet emotion. 2009; 89 min. In Spanish and Catalan, subtitled.

Sunday-February 13-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10; $9; $8
Lift - Ann Marie Allison
Are the ups and downs of love always worth the ride? Maggie is a bespectacled filing clerk. Clark is a confident corporate executive. To get close to him, Maggie coordinates their daily ride up in the elevator, hoping today is the day he will realize they're meant for each other. But when another woman grabs Clark's attention, Maggie decides it's time to change, and she devises a plan to finally stand out. 2010; 10 min.

Dottie's Thanksgiving Pickle - Sean Gannet
Against her mother-in-law's wishes and her husband's preference, Dottie, a woman with questionable cooking talent, determines to take on Thanksgiving dinner although the frozen turkey remains uncooperative. Starring Academy Award winner Olympia Dukakis and Tony Award Nominee Nancy Opel. 2010; 11 min.

I Love My Woman - Otis Kriegel
A Valentine's Day documentary with a twist! Ordinarily, men don't talk about love. In this documentary, they candidly explore why they love the women they are with--from the touch of their skin, to the sound of their voice, to the way they love to feel loved. At once surprising, comical, emotional, serious, revealing, and self-centered but always honest, I Love My Woman shows that. When given the opportunity, men will drop everything to talk about one thing they love: their women.  2010; 12 min. With an in-person appearance by
Director Otis Kriegel!

The Filmmaker - Marcello Fabrizi
Mark is a filmmaker. None of his films are earth-shatteringly great. Some of them almost work, but not quite. What he lacks in talent he makes up for with sheer, all-consuming optimism. Jess is the girl of his dreams, but she thinks he's an idiot. She might be right. A hilarious cinematic quest for 'the truth', the girl, and the malamute that his parents never got for him. 2010; 17 min.

Hot Toxic Love: The Making of The Toxic Avenger Musical – Jeff Cipin
This insightful and charming documentary explores the trials and tribulations of the actors and creative team involved in getting a new production to the stage in four weeks. Complete with sexy dance numbers and lots of artificial, green ooze. 2010; 45 min.

Friday-February 18-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10/$9/$8
2011 United States Super 8 Film & Digital Video Festival           
View the winning films and digital videos of the International U.S. Super 8 Film + Digital Video Festival, selected by a jury of filmmakers, students, and media professionals. The festival--now in its 23rd year—will feature finalist works by independent filmmakers from the United States and around the world. A different program of films and videos will be offered each night.  Prize winners will be announced on the closing night of the festival, in a competition for $4000 in cash and prizes, along with the Audience Favorite Prize. 120 min. A complete festival line-up will be listed on our website by February 11, 2011.

Saturday-February 19-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10/$9/$8
2011 United States Super 8 Film & Digital Video Festival           

Sunday-February 20-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM $10/$9/$
2011 United States Super 8 Film & Digital Video Festival           

Thursday-February 24-Ruth Adams Bldg. #001-6PM $10/$9/$8
Beauty #2–Andy Warhol
Edie Sedgwick was downtown New York's "It girl" of 1965, when she was inseparable from Andy Warhol; they briefly reigned together as the king of Pop Art and his star. Sedgwick appeared in nearly all of Warhol's films that year. In "Beauty #2," her most playful and alluring performance, Sedgwick flirts in bed with a half-naked man—and the camera—while responding to jealous insults from an off-screen voyeur. "Edie was incredible on camera—just the way she moved," said Warhol. "She was all energy. She didn't know what to do with it when it came to living her life, but it was wonderful to film."1965, 70 min. With commentary by Festival Director Albert G. Nigrin. Part of the Rutgers University American Film Directors course.

Thursday-March 3-Ruth Adams Bldg. #001-6PM $10/$9/$8
Seconds - John Frankenheimer
A masterpiece from director John Frankenheimer. One of the ultimate psychological thrillers, as if sprung from Kafka, Seconds is the story of a haggard American businessman who is offered the chance—by a sinister re-engineering corporation--to start his life over with a new face and body.  The eerie and disquieting music is a key element to the  film, along with James Wong Howe's haunting, anamorphic cinematography. Starring Rock Hudson. 1966, 107 min. With commentary by Festival Director Albert G. Nigrin. Part of the Rutgers University American Film Directors course.

Saturday-March 5-Voorhees Hall #105-7PM Free
Salt of this Sea - Annemarie Jacir
A feature film about the burdens of the past, made heavier by the weight of seemingly interminable political conflicts. Soraya, born in Brooklyn into a community of Palestinian refugees, discovers that her grandfather's savings were frozen in a bank account in Jaffa when he was exiled in 1948.  Determined to reclaim what is hers, she travels to Jaffa.  There she is shattered by the reality around her and is forced to confront her own anger once she meets Emad, a young Palestinian whose ambition, contrary to hers, is to leave forever. Tired of the constraints that dictate their lives, they know in order to be free, they must take things into their own hands. In Arabic, subtitled. 2008; 109 min.  With an in-person appearance by Actor Suheir Hammad!*

Films shown on Friday, Saturday or Sunday in January and February are part of the New Jersey Film Festival Competition and are either area or New Jersey Premieres!

* = Appearance tentatively confirmed!

General Information

Time:     All Voorhees Hall film programs begin at 7:00 PM and all Ruth Adams Building programs begin at 6:00 PM. Films are screened in the order listed with a brief intermission for double and multiple-bills between films.

Locations:
Ruth Adams Building #001 (Near corner of Jones Street and George Street
131 George St./Douglass College Campus, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey

Voorhees Hall #105 (Near the corner of George Street and Hamilton Street),
71 Hamilton Street/College Avenue Campus, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey

NOTE: Our new primary screening location Voorhees Hall #105 features new comfortable seats, stadium seating, a state-of-the-art hi-definition projection and sound systems!

Admission: 
$10=General; $9=Students+Seniors; $8=Rutgers Film Co-op/NJMAC Friends.  Except the Sat-March 5th screening which is Free!

All films are subject to change. Call our information number 732-932-8482 the day of show to confirm titles.

Tickets:    
Tickets are available on a "first-come-first-served" basis only and can be purchased at the door beginning a half-hour before the start time. Advance Tickets are available to groups of 10 or more. Call or email us for more info.

Directions:
Voorhees Hall #105=Take the NJ Turnpike to Exit 9 and then take Route 18N (New Brunswick direction) and go for 2 1/2 miles to the College Avenue Campus/George Street exit (immediately after the Route 27S exit) and make a left at the light at the end of the exit ramp onto George Street, then go to the next light and make a right onto Hamilton Street, then go to the next light and make a right onto College Avenue. Almost immediately on your right hand side there is an University Parking Lot (#9) which is made available for our patrons to park in. Voorhees Hall is adjacent to the Zimmerli Art Museum and is 100 paces across the Voorhees Mall from Parking Lot 9. Patrons can also park in Rutgers Lots #1 (next to Kirkpatrick Chapel) and #16 (next to Murray and Milledoler Hall). Map and Directions are also here:
http://rumaps.rutgers.edu/?q=bnum:3013

Ruth Adams Bldg. #001= Take the NJ Turnpike to Exit 9 and then take Route 18N (New Brunswick direction-Local Lanes)  and go for approximately 1 mile and take the Commercial Avenue exit. Go up Commercial Ave to the 2nd light and make a left on George Street.  Then go about 100 yards and make a left into the service road (opposite Jones St. on the right) into the Douglass Campus and park in the University parking lot #69 at the end of the service road. Additional Parking is available on Jones Street and behind the Douglass Student Center near the corner of Nichol Avenue and George Street.
Map and Directions are also here: http://search.rutgers.edu/buildings.html?q=ruth%20adams
       
Information:   
New Jersey Film Festival
Rutgers Film Co-op/New Jersey Media Arts Center
Rutgers University Program in Cinema Studies
72 Lipman Drive  (#018 Loree Hall - Douglass Campus)
New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08901-8525 U.S.A.   
(732) 932-8482 phone; (732) 932-1935 fax; NJMAC12@gmail.com, NJMAC @aol.com  e-mail;
Web Site: www.njfilmfest.com

The New Jersey Film Festivalsm Spring 2011 is funded and sponsored in part by The Rutgers Film Co-op/New Jersey Media Arts Center; The Rutgers University Program in Cinema Studies/School of Arts and Sciences; Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission/Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; Eastman Kodak; Johnson & Johnson; New Jersey Books; WCTC/WMGQ; The Home News Tribune;  The Highland Park Mirror; The Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences; the Rutgers University Office of Academic Engagement and Programming; The Rutgers University American Studies Department; Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program;  Rutgers University Center For Middle Eastern Studies; Writers Boot Camp; Baseline/Film Tracker; Jungle Software; New Brunswick City Market; Showbiz Software; The Rutgers University Office of Community Affairs; Rutgers University  Libraries; Rutgers University Presentation Services; The Rutgers University Enhanced Classroom Support Department; Design Ideas; Advanced Printing; Steven C. Schechter, Esq.; Share and Harris.

Rutgers Film Co-op/NJMAC 2011 Staff
Executive Director/Curator: Albert Gabriel Nigrin
Office and House Managers: Stephen Dovidas, Joe Gessner, Ed Brett Scheuermann

Volunteers/Interns: Lauren Antolino, Ryan Dembek, Holman Edmond, Mark Hansen, Richard Lee, Kate McGaffney, Robin Morales, Jessica Murphy, Heather Preyer, Natika Prosper, Shamika Speight, Eileen Tavarez, Bryan Viera

Advisors:   Bob Brodsky, Victoria Connor, Dr. Susan Martin-Marquez, Dr. Daniel Nigrin, Toni Treadway, Dr. Alan Williams

Board of Trustees: Dr. John Belton, Dr. Irene Fizer, Bill Harris, Albert Gabriel Nigrin, Steven C. Schechter,Esq.

The New Jersey Film Festivalsm Spring 2011 is curated by Albert Gabriel Nigrin. Schedule Editor: Irene Fizer. Schedule compiler: Vic Fern. Schedule Designer:  Victoria Connor/Design Ideas. Schedule printed by Advanced Printing.  Cover Art: Mental Radio by Albert Gabriel Nigrin ©2010.