The Actors Studio of New Jersey

About the Theatre

The Actors Studio of New Jersey officially launched as a nonprofit theater company with a clear mission: to push the boundaries of theatrical innovation while reimagining accessibility and engagement for audiences throughout New Jersey. Led by creative producer Michael Restaino, the company set out to create a vibrant hub for diverse artists, offering transformative theatrical experiences that bring together emerging talents and seasoned professionals in a collaborative environment.​ ​ At its foundation, The Actors Studio of New Jersey is dedicated to nurturing artistic talent, fostering cultural enrichment, and making meaningful contributions to the region’s performing arts landscape. The organization’s guiding philosophy emphasizes challenging industry norms, engaging a wider demographic, and breaking down barriers so that theater remains accessible and exciting for all. Central to its programming are Main Stage productions, top-tier training initiatives through the Institute of the Arts, and educational outreach for youth, with a special emphasis on Theater for Young Audiences.​ Looking ahead, The Actors Studio of New Jersey continues to expand its offerings, partnering with venues such as The Dunellen Theatre to present full-scale musicals, musical tributes, and plays for young audiences. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of New Jersey’s performing arts scene, inspiring both audiences and artists to discover the transformative power of live theater.

Articles

Review: SWAN LAKE by the American Repertory Ballet-A Wonderous Production

by Marina Kennedy · October 29, 2026

We attended the Saturday matinee with an audience that was fascinated by the majesty of the classic ballet that was performed to perfection by the ARB dancers.…

Review: The Bard's HAMLET at The Shakespeare Theatre of NJ Enthralls

by Marina Kennedy · October 20, 2026

A stunning production of William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet is now being performed at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey through November 15.…

Review: Kathryn Grody’s THE UNEXPECTED 3RD Shines Bright at GSP

by Marina Kennedy · October 21, 2026

Kathryn Grody graces the stage with style and verve in her one-woman show, The Unexpected Third.…

Review: Premiere Stages-EFFA LOVES BASEBALL Covers All the Bases

by Marina Kennedy · October 18, 2026

Premiere Stages at Kean University is presenting the outstanding Actors Equity premiere production of Effa Loves Baseball smartly written by Pia Wilson.…

Review: ATG’s DESTROYING DAVID by Jason Odell Williams-A Unique Gem

by Marina Kennedy · October 13, 2026

American Theater Group (ATG) opens their 2026/2027 Season with the East Coast Premiere of Jason Odell William’s highly acclaimed, entertaining play, Destroying David.…

Review: NACHO ATE SPIDERMAN at NJ Rep-An Ingenious Comedy

by Marina Kennedy · October 6, 2026

New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) is closing their successful 2026 season with the world premiere of 'Nacho Ate Spiderman.'…

Review: THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME at Burlington County Footlighters

by Donna Marie Nowak · September 23, 2026

Burlington County Footlighters' Hunchback of Notre Dame is a superlative production, a thought-provoking musical of epic scale, filled with intimate moments.…

Review: August Wilson’s THE PIANO LESSON at Two River Theater-Outstanding

by Marina Kennedy · September 22, 2026

The play continues Two River Theater's commitment to staging all ten plays in August Wilson’s “Century Cycle.”…

Review: John J. Wooten's FLAWLESS at Premiere Stages-An Excellent Topical Production

by Marina Kennedy · September 7, 2026

Premiere Stages’ production of John J. Wooten’s play 'Flawless' is now on stage, and you don’t want to miss it.…

Review: WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINA WOOLF at STNJ-A Compelling American Masterpiece

by Marina Kennedy · September 15, 2026

The company perfectly portrays the play’s shades of drama and humor.…

Mean Girls, The Musical

Sep 11 – Sep 20, 2026

“ Get in, loser — Mean Girls is coming to Dunellen! ” The Actors Studio of New Jersey is thrilled to present the fiercely funny, pink-powered hit Mean Girls: The Musical at the historic Dunellen Theatre this fall! Performances run from September 11th through September 20th, with...

The Lightning Thief

Jul 24 – Jul 26, 2026

The Actors Studio of New Jersey is thrilled to announce its electrifying summer production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical , bringing the hit Broadway adventure to the historic Dunellen Theatre as part of the company’s 2026 season and ongoing residency...

Cruel Intentions: The 90's Musical

Jun 27 – Jun 28, 2025

The Actors Studio of New Jersey presents Cruel Intentions: The 90's Musical, a vibrant jukebox musical inspired by the cult classic film, featuring '90s hits from artists like Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys. Set in an elite Manhattan prep school, the story follows...

Welcome to the Heartbreak Hotel

Mar 28

Welcome to the Heartbreak Hotel is a musical tribute celebrating the timeless music of Elvis Presley, presented by The Actors Studio of New Jersey. On March 28, 2025, the Dunellen Theatre will feature an evening filled with Elvis's greatest hits, promising a dynamic experience...