The New Jersey Repertory Company, 179 Broadway, Long Branch, is presenting the world premiere of the musical “The Little Hours” by David Bucknam, based on several short stories by Dorothy Parker, July 10 through Aug. 17. Regular performances run Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. with selected Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40; previews, $35; opening night with reception, $50; Roaring ’20s night, $50. For tickets and additional information call 732-229-3166 or visit www.njrep.org.
The 34th annual Newark Black Film Festival/Youth Cinema has returned to Asbury Park for the second year. Screenings, which are free, include: July 8 at 7 p.m., “Back to Africa”; July 11 at 7 p.m., “Blackout.” The six-week summer festival is being presented at Asbury Park High School Auditorium, Sunset Avenue. For information, call the Monmouth County Arts Council at 732-212- 1890 or visit www.monmoutharts. org.
Spotlight Players in Matawan will hold auditions for Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” on Wednesday, July 9, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, July 13, at 4 p.m., at the First Presbyterian Church of Matawan, Route 34 and Franklin Street. Auditioners must be age 18 or older and bring sheet music with a song (preferably by Sondheim) in their key; an accompanist will be provided. Performances will be at 8 p.m. Sept. 5 and 6. For more information, call 732-583-7874.
Running Rabbit Family Theatre will present “Rapunzel,” an enchanting musical comedy for families, at Monmouth University’s Pollak Theatre in West Long Branch on Tuesday July 8, and Wednesday, July 9, at 10:30 a.m. This clever rendition of the Grimm fairy tale features an enchantress who is herself in search of love, a bumbling valet who awkwardly attempts to assist the Prince in an attempt to rescue Rapunzel, and a heroine whose first-time encounters with the outside world provide numerous laughable predicaments.
Cast members meet and greet the children after each performance, signing autographs and having their pictures taken with new friends from the audience. Tickets are $12-$14. For further information and reservations call 973-744-3309 or visit www.RRFamilyTheatre.org.
Compiled by Gloria Stravelli Designed by Eileen Russell Gerber