Count Basie Theatre
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The Count Basie Theatre is a theatre located on Monmouth Street in Red Bank, New Jersey. It is named for Red Bank native and jazz great Count Basie; previously, it was known as the Monmouth Arts Center.
The theatre was founded in 1926. It is known for first class entertainment in an intimate setting, hosting professional plays, political commentators, as well as arena-scale concerts by world-famous musical acts. It is one of the most popular theaters in the bohemian-like town of Red Bank and its neighboring communities, referred to as the New Jersey tri-cities (Long Branch, Red Bank and Asbury Park). It also remains popular among New York City residents, many of whom vacation in Red Bank.
The theatre is divided into four sections. The large orchestra cosumes the entire ground level, the small loge is elevated above the Orchestra, but below large the balcony, which is turn is below the highest section, the small upper balcony. The theatre began restoration during the 2000s. Theatre capacity is in the 2,000-3,000 neighborhood.
The theatre contributes a great deal to Red Bank's artistic vibe and to New Jersey culture. The town is widely regarded as New Jersey's answer to Greenwich Village. The theatre is one of several in the borough, but by far the best known. The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra has played a schedule there for many decades. For several years Bon Jovi performed an annual Christmas concert in the theatre. Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons frequently perform at the venue, in what are usually sold-out performances. In what has become a New Year's Eve tradition in the area, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes hold an annual New Year's Eve concert, which usually lasts long into the morning. The concerts are always well attended, and are famous not just in New Jersey, but throughout the music world. The Brian Setzer Orchestra's Christmas concerts are always very well attended. New Jersey's most famous rocker, Bruce Springsteen, has been known to perform there as well.
During the 2000s the theatre has shifted to a wider audience. Family shows, musical plays, comedians, and famous political commentators have all appeared there. Jon Stewart took the stage in 2005 and Lewis Black sold out the entire theatre in 2006, as well as on all previous appearances there. Local filmmaker Kevin Smith has appeared there, including a memorable seven-hour Q & A session in April 2005 that ran until 3 in the morning.
Recording artist "Weird Al" Yankovic promoted his album Running with Scissors in 2000 by filming a television special in Red Bank, prior to his performance at the Count Basie Theatre. During the special, "Weird Al" walked the streets of Red Bank speaking with fans and recalling his greatest video hits. At the beginning of the special, "Weird Al" remarked "That's right, I have finally achieved the pinacle of rock and roll success, I am doing a show in Red Bank, New Jersey! I can't believe it!"
