The New Jersey Repertory Theater, a small but mighty theater in Long Branch, New Jersey, has become a powerhouse for new theater productions, serving as a launching pad for Broadway success. This theater, run by the dedicated husband-and-wife team of SuZanne and Gabe Barabas, has a unique mission: to champion new plays and nurture the next generation of American theater. Their commitment to this cause has not only earned them respect in the arts community but has also contributed to the development of original works that have traveled from Long Branch to New York and beyond.
What sets the NJ Rep apart is its audacious decision to focus solely on new plays. While it might be easier to sell tickets with classic productions, the Barabas couple chose to make a bold statement. Gabe Barabas explains, "We decided that if we were going to do something like this, why don’t we make a contribution to American theater by giving birth to new works?" This tenacious dedication to their mission has paid off, as the theater has developed and debuted over 150 new plays, many of which have gone on to be produced around the country and even overseas.
The NJ Rep's impact extends beyond the stage. It has become a vital institution in Monmouth County, taking risks both artistically and financially to champion new theatrical works. Nora DeVeau-Rosen, Managing Director of Two River Theater, praises the NJ Rep's commitment to playwrights, stating that it has made them a nationally respected home for new voices. John Wooten, producing artistic director of Premiere Stages, also acknowledges the theater's role in driving a larger national conversation, noting that New Jersey is a leading state in the development and production of original works.
The theater's success is not just about the plays themselves but also about building a community. SuZanne and Gabe have cultivated a dedicated audience in Long Branch, creating a space where people come to experience new works on faith. Evan Bergman, Associate Artistic Director, recalls his first encounter with the NJ Rep, saying, "Who are these people?" who could do so much with so little. This question led him to become a supporter of the theater's mission, as he witnessed the couple's passion and dedication firsthand.
The NJ Rep's influence has grown, and the couple has expanded their reach with the opening of West End Arts, a new space in Long Branch. This venue aims to develop another theater space while also championing other art forms, such as music, poetry, and painting. Gabe's curtain speech, a familiar refrain to the community, encapsulates the theater's spirit: "Remember—always remember—enjoy, enjoy the show!" This simple yet powerful message has become a hallmark of the NJ Rep's experience, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.
