Enriqueta Somarriba

State Theatre New Jersey (STNJ) celebrates the power of classical performance with the annual Classical Season Celebration on Thursday, October 17, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. This year’s event will take place in STNJ’s intimate Studio space and, as a first for State Theatre, will be a performance entirely by candlelight. Pianist Enriqueta Somarriba will perform a 45-minute program of classical favorites woven together with pieces by Spanish composers.

“We are very happy to present this important annual event in a new and exciting way this year,” said Sarah Chaplin, STNJ president and CEO. “This fundraiser is essential to us as a nonprofit presenting theater, as it helps us receive vital support from our community to sustain our classical performances and arts education initiatives throughout the year.”

The event opens with a cocktail reception. The fundraiser supports the continued success of the year-round classical and educational programming — including STNJ’s Symphony Scholars program with the New Brunswick Public School District, Edison High School, and SpeakMusic Conservatory.

Somarriba has performed with the Orquesta Andrés Segovia and Virtuosi Brunensis Orchestra, which have been featured on Spanish National Radio and 98.7 WFMT. Highlights include her contribution to Netflix’s Dancing on Glass, which earned a 2023 Spanish Film Academy Award nomination, and recordings with MSR Classics. As a collaborative pianist, she partners with members of the Metropolitan Opera and Philadelphia Orchestra.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at STNJ.org/CSC or call (732) 247-7200, ext. 512.