TOMS RIVER, N.J. (July 23, 2026) —The Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts at Ocean County College has unveiled its 2026 fall season, with more than two dozen performances spanning music, comedy, theater, and dance, with something for nearly every taste. The season runs from August to December at the Grunin Center, located in Building #11 on the OCC main campus on College Drive in Toms River.
“I am delighted to invite everyone to our new season at the Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts, where we celebrate artistic excellence and meaningful community connection,” said Heidi Sheridan, Executive and Artistic Director. “I look forward to sharing the joy, connection, and inspiration of the season with our community this fall.”
Grunin Presents
- The Doo Wop Project (Aug. 30) revives classics like “Blue Moon” and “My Girl,” alongside inventive twists on today’s biggest hits.
- Dementia Man, An Existential Journey (Sep. 16) – Actor and playwright Samuel A. Simon shares his award-winning autobiographical account of confronting an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
- 80s kids (Sep. 19) – Synthpop duo Shannon Curtis and Jamie Hill power through a high-octane joyride across the best of 1980s, woven together with funny, moving stories about growing up in the decade.
- John Pizzarelli Presents “Dear Mr. Bennett” (Oct. 2) – The Grammy-winning producer and guitarist salutes the legendary Tony Bennett.
- Patriot Songs of the American Revolution (Oct. 4) – Musician and historian Bobby Horton blends storytelling, musicianship and history with a genuine love for the people who settled this nation.
- Veronica Swift (Oct. 15) – One of her generation’s most iconic jazz voices takes the Grunin Center stage.
- Magical Mystery Doors (Oct. 24) – This tribute act mashes up The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors into something for music fans young and old.
- Mariachi Henerencia de Mexico (Oct. 27) – Two-time Latin Grammy nominees take traditional mariachi sounds to new heights.
- Haunted Illusions starring David Caserta (Nov. 1) – Enjoy an evening of interactive magic and comedy from one of the country’s top touring illusionists.
- Judy Collins – Sweet Judy Blue Eyes: Farewell (Dec. 9) – The legendary singer brings her farewell tour to the Grunin Center, giving audiences one last chance to experience her timeless voice and storytelling.
- Westminster Concert Bell Choir (Dec. 11) – A winter concert of holiday classics and original works, performed on the world’s largest range of handbells and Choirchime® instruments.
- Tartan Terrors Celtic Christmas Spectacular (Dec. 19) – Celtic and classic Christmas music collide with Hogmanay tunes in a high-energy celebration for the entire family.
- Jukebox Saturday Night: Swingin’ Holiday Spectacular (Dec. 20) – An afternoon of festive favorites and joyful musical celebration for the whole family.
Family Series
- A Christmas Carol (Dec. 5) – Yates Musical Theatre for Children returns with its heartwarming musical adaptation of the classic tale.
- The Nutcracker (Dec. 12) – Ballet for Young Audiences presents this child-friendly production. A Grunin Center holiday tradition!
Afternoon Recital Series
- Ching-Yi Lin (Sep. 18) – The international pianist presents “Heroic Journey,” exploring transformation, struggle, and triumph through music.
- Lyndon Ji (Oct. 16) – The concert pianist explores modernist French music from Fauré to Lili Boulanger to Murail, as well as Scriabin’s mystic sound world through a selection of études and the ineffable Fifth Sonata.
- Margarita Rovenskaya (Nov. 6) – Solo piano works spanning a range of characters and countries.
Blauvelt Speaker Series
- Laurie Hernandez (Sep. 22) – The Olympic gold medalist, bestselling author, and broadcaster discusses her remarkable career and experiences.
- Travis Mills (Nov. 9) – The retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant, bestselling author, and motivational speaker shares his inspiring message of resilience and leadership.
Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon
- Nat Adderley, Jr. (Sep. 13) – The acclaimed jazz pianist performs selections from his 2025 album Took So Long.
- Louis Armstrong Hot Five Centennial Celebration (Nov. 8) – Trumpeter Andrew Stephens and a top-tier ensemble of New York traditional jazz musicians in a tribute to Louis Armstrong’s groundbreaking 1925–1928 Hot Five recordings.
OCC Repertory Theatre Co.
- Macbeth (Oct. 23) – The timeless tragedy of unchecked ambition, set against the backdrop of medieval Scotland.
- Broadway for the Holidays (Dec. 11) – A joyful musical revue that brings the magic of Broadway home for the season.
OCC Concert Band
- Magic of the Season (Dec. 5) – The OCC Concert Band’s winter program will wrap audiences in the warmth of holiday cheer.
Ticketing Information
The Grunin Center offers three membership options for the 2026-2027 season. Members enjoy exclusive discounts, early ticket access, and special events.
Tickets are available online or by calling the Box Office at 732-255-0500. Group rates and discounts for students and military/veterans are available for select shows. Learn more at grunincenter.org.