New Jersey Stage 2016: Issue 12 | Page 29

close to the Jersey Shore or to find homes less expensive than the North Jersey suburbs. But they are no less cultured than New Jersey residents who live just across the bridge. Theatres like Two River and NJ Rep are discovering audiences who have the option of going to a Broadway or Off-Broadway show each weekend, but who sometimes prefer seeing professional theatre in their backyard. In this way, they may be changing the role of regional theatres that are located in the shadow of the city. “It didn’t occur to me that that’s the decision people are making,” Madeleine added. “That at any time, if they wanted to they can go see The Lion King or something. It helps me to understand the richness of that environment because people are doing the same thing they would do in the theatre capital of the world except closer to home.” Meanwhile, about six miles away in Long Branch is the New Jersey Repertory Theatre Com- Free Email Newsletter Subscription Start your day with a customized look at arts & entertainment news from around the state. Click here to sign up! NJ STAGE 2016 - ISSUE 12 INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 29