State Theatre – New Brunswick NJ

Opened in 1921 the historic State Theatre is one of the last vestiges of old New Brunswick, the Middlesex county seat. Though the current marquee is a conservative modern design, look for the embossed RKO logos flanking the entrance and know that there’s history waiting for you behind those doors.

A member of the League of Historic American Theatres, this 1800 seat venue with orchestra and balcony seating in downtown New Brunswick was originally a vaudeville house, but with the popularity of movies in the decades that followed its opening, it was THE place in town to catch first run movies.

While it had its dark times (as all theaters did) today through the dedication of many people throughout the years it is a bustling live performance venue with a full calendar of music, comedy, family events dance, symphonies and more.

Those of you who are old theater fans like Mod Betty might recognize the name Thomas Lamb. He designed this theater, in addition to many other movie palaces across the country. You can see his decorative touches in the auditorium, with decorative plasterwork, gilded arches and opulent sunburst ceiling.

The State offers a “Thirty30 Club” where patrons 30 years or younger get a discount on selected shows at this almost 100 year old institution. With its adjacency to Rutgers University (The State University of New Jersey) this is an encouraging sign for those of us who hope future generations will embrace our architectural past.

Did you know that RKO stands for Radio-Keith Orpheum? Mod Betty thought it was just the AM radio station she grew up listening to!

See their website for discount parking, dining and hotel offers

Take the train here and have an adventure!