Bell Works New Jersey is opening Bell Theater in an effort to diversify and broaden theater audiences, according to a recent release from Inspired by Somerset Development, the developer behind the country’s first metroburb.
Originally known as the birthplace of world-changing technology, and now as the backdrop for Emmy-nominated shows like Apple TV+’s “Severance,” Bell Works — the reimagined historic Bell Laboratories building in Holmdel — is now luring Broadway veterans to its soon-to-be-opened Bell Theater. The intimate venue is located on the ground floor of the 2 million-square-foot redeveloped suburban office building.
Shows kick off May 3 with nationally and internationally recognized artists and New Jersey locals.
The development of the Bell Theater was made possible by a generous donation from Sheldon and Anne Vogel — who are known for their commitment to growing artistic programming throughout New Jersey. Additionally, this realization of Bell Theater has been accomplished through financial assistance from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts in cooperation with and administered by the New Jersey Historic Trust.
Bell Theater plans to become a cultural beacon for the state, featuring intimate concerts and innovative productions of new and classic musicals, plays and dance pieces.
A full schedule of upcoming programming for the Bell Theater can be found here.
“The reincarnation of the historical Bell Labs into Bell Works is one of my proudest achievements,” Ralph Zucker, founder and CEO of Inspired by Somerset Development, said. “As Bell Works continues to shine as one of New Jersey’s most unique destinations, we look forward to this most exciting stage: the opening of the new Bell Theater. The arts at Bell Works will expand our outreach and community engagement. We look forward to welcoming music, art and theater lovers to our ‘Metroburb.’”
“Art, music, history, dance and innovation push me to create, and it is my sole mission to cultivate a community that has a similar curiosity and appreciation for arts and culture,” Paola Zamudio, creative director and lead designer of Bell Works, said.
“We are delighted to be joining forces with Bell Works to open the new Bell Theater,” Andrew DePrisco, executive artistic director of Bell Theater, said. “Having a new state-of-the-art venue where we can present concerts, musicals, plays, dance events and so much more is incredibly exciting for central New Jersey.”
Students at the Axelrod Performing Arts Academy located at Bell Works studying dance, musical theater, film acting and more will enjoy opportunities to perform on the stage in showcases and small productions.
