The Count Basie Center for the Arts, one of New Jersey’s prized entertainment venues, announced Dec. 5 a new partnership with OceanFirst Bank that includes the official renaming of its cinema to Basie Center Cinema House powered by OceanFirst Bank. The partnership includes a $100,000 sponsorship that will support the revitalization of the movie theater.
The partnership includes a new exterior awning, new branding and upgrades to the restrooms and building that make the venue ADA accessible. The multi-year agreement will help the Basie Center modernize the experience for movie-goers, while preserving the theater’s role as one of Red Bank’s most cherished entertainment spaces.
“The Basie Center Cinema House powered by OceanFirst Bank is an investment in both culture and community,” said Christopher D. Maher, OceanFirst Bank chairman and chief executive officer. “The cinema has been a special place for the Red Bank community for a long time and we are proud to be a part of its evolution.”
The Basie Center Cinema House opened in 1971 and underwent several name changes before the Count Basie Center for the Arts acquired it in 2020. Since then, it has become a home for independent films, festivals, educational programming and community events. The venue also hosts private rentals, parties and special events such as live radio plays.
The renaming and revitalization come as part of the Basie Center’s yearlong centennial celebration, marking the organization’s 100 years in Red Bank.
“OceanFirst Bank shares our belief that an independent movie theater is an important part of Red Bank’s charm and sense of community. This partnership reflects the commitment of our board, our supporters, and OceanFirst Bank to not only preserve the cinema, but to make it accessible to everyone,” said Adam Philipson, president and CEO of the Count Basie Center for the Arts.
“The rebranding will help reimagine the Cinema House as an even more welcoming space, where we can present festivals, new releases, retro programs, educational offerings and more. We are grateful for OceanFirst Bank’s support and for the thousands of patrons who come through our doors each year and make this space come alive as a true art house.”
In addition to the corporate sponsorship, a separate philanthropic grant from the OceanFirst Foundation was recently awarded to the Basie Center to support its workforce development program, which provides economic empowerment and inclusive opportunities to the bilingual, Spanish-speaking community in Monmouth County. The foundation has been supporting this program since its launch in 2024.
“We’re proud to continue our support of the Basie Center’s workforce development program – a powerful initiative that opens doors and creates pathways to success,” said Katherine Durante, executive director, OceanFirst Foundation. “The Basie Center’s dedication to fostering inclusive opportunities has delivered meaningful impact, and we’re honored to help sustain and grow this important work.”
