The New Jersey Performing Arts Center, by celebrating diversity, shall be America’s foremost urban presenter of arts and entertainment, a creative and effective leader in arts education for children, a convener of useful and enlightening civic engagement events, and a catalyst for economic development in its home city of Newark.

NJPAC has been an anchor institution since our inception: hyperlocal, grounded in our community, advancing initiatives that drive change in our city and beyond.

John Schreiber
NJPAC President & CEO (2011 – present)

Governor Tom Kean’s original idea for a flagship performing arts center was articulated more than 30 years ago. He envisioned a magnificent cultural home for the greatest artists in the world.

John Schreiber
NJPAC President & CEO (2011 – present)

I was convinced that Newark was where it ought to be located. And that the Arts Center could be a tremendous force for good in Newark.

The Honorable Thomas H. Kean
NJ Governor (1982 – 1990)

We felt this building had to be of the city, not a separate part of the city. The idea was to make a room where you could bring almost 3,000 people together and make a strong connection to the arts and the artists in a setting that feels intimate. That’s what it’s all about.

Barton Myers
NJPAC Architect

We wanted this arts center to be different, for everyone to feel welcome and invested.

Lawrence P. Goldman
NJPAC Founding President & CEO

Establishing a relationship with children was a big priority coming out of the gate. We wanted ours to be a program where students could work with pros.

Philip Thomas
NJPAC Founding VP for Arts Education

The Arts Center has really helped to cement in people’s minds the idea that Newark is a destination for great cultural activities.

Lata Reddy
SVP of Diversity, Inclusion & Impact, Prudential Financial

I think NJPAC has had an extraordinary impact on the city and the city on it. It’s that two-way relationship that’s so vibrant and important.

Nancy Cantor
Chancellor, Rutgers University-Newark

NJPAC’s greatest gift is its willingness to invest in the lives of the people who reside in the community, and it does so in a culturally competent way. It’s led by people who are genuinely devoted to elevating lives.

Barry H. Ostrowsky
NJPAC Board Co-chair (2019 – 2022)