Union County Performing Arts Center – Rahway NJ

Opened in 1928 as the Rahway Theatre just as the silent movies were giving way to talkies, this classic theater also has a history in vaudeville, as it was often a stopover for many live shows traveling between New York City and Philadelphia. Like many old theaters it had its dark times as tastes changed, but with the concerted efforts of impassioned fans championed the restoration of this local landmark.

Fast forward to today and it is listed in both the state and national register of historic sites and is the largest performing arts center in the county. With over 1300 seats, its Mainstage auditorium retains many of its historic decorative elements including the proscenium arch and plaster decorations. Not only do they highlight live performances on this stage, they also show classic movies on 35mm film throughout the season. Speaking of movies, it was also a location featured in the movie School of Rock, a Mod Betty fave.

As if this weren’t enough to entice you, it is also home to a Wurlitzer theatre organ that was designed specifically for this space and has been here since the theatre opened over 90 years ago. Listed on the American Theatre Organ Society’s National Register of Historic Instruments, it is often referred to as the “Biggest Little Wurlitzer” for producing such a loud sound from such a small instrument.

From musicals and comedy to dance, classic films and organ concerts, this historic theatre is bound to appeal to Retro Roadmappers of all ages.

Dine at Nancy’s TowneHouse and make a Rahway night of it

Within walking distance to the train from New York City’s Penn Station!

The UCPAC campus includes three additional performance spaces besides the Mainstage