Count Basie Center for the Arts – Red Bank New Jersey

Opened in 1926, the Count Basie Center for the Arts has almost had as many names as performers on its historic stage! If all goes according to plan, by the time you are reading this the slated expansion of this once simple theater building into an arts resource for the community will be complete.

The most notable name change for this 1500 seat theater in downtown Red Bank happened in 1984, when the then Monmouth Center For the Arts (previously Reade’s Carlton Theater, and The StateTheatre, and the Monmouth Arts Center) was renamed for one of the most influential artists from the area. William “Count” Basie, the famous jazz pianist, composer and bandleader was born in Red Bank in 1904 and was the first African-American male recipient of a Grammy Award.

Listen on the National Register of Historic Places, many elements of the classic theater design remaining despite renovations.Peek into the lounges to see the Spanish style tiles and lights and you can’t miss the beautiful sunburst painted ceiling complete with crystal chandelier in the main auditorium.

With shows happening over 200 nights per year, you’re bound to find something to enjoy.
Then when you see a performer on stage at this historic theater they’ll be playing on “The Asbury Park Press Stage at the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre at the Count Basie Center for the Arts.” Talk about a Mouthful!

Take it easy on yourself, says Mod B - and just say you’re seeing them at The Basie ;-)

Mod Betty Mentions:

Note the pediment above the marquee is a remnant of The State

Red Bank has a cute downtown to walk around in, come early for dinner!

Famous folks live in the area, so you may see some stars in the audience as well as onstage