TAPPING INTO SPRING: New Jersey Tap Dance Ensemble is part of the spring 2019 Milk & Cookies series of music and storytelling programs for children, at the State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick starting in February.

State Theatre New Jersey has announced the return of the lively, interactive storytelling series Milk & Cookies, starting February 9 with the musician and storyteller Tahira.

The series holds three programs for children ages 3-8, and their families. Following Tahira, performances will be by New Jersey Tap Dance Ensemble on March 2, and Sweetbeatz on April 6. Select performances are autism-friendly, allowing families with children on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities to experience live entertainment in a safe, welcoming, sensory-friendly environment.

“We hope Milk & Cookies will be the spark that kindles a lifelong love affair with live performing arts,” said Lian Farrer, State Theatre New Jersey’s vice president of education & community engagement. “The series introduces a variety of genres and styles; this season’s programs feature everything from African folktales to jazz, tap dance to rock and roll. The shows are interactive, engaging, and fun. But most importantly, live performances are a social, communal experience — something kids can’t get from digital media or video games.”

 Tahira performs Saturday, February 9, at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Returning by popular demand, she sings and tells stories drawn from the African and African American folklore tradition as well as her own imagination. New Jersey Tap Dance Ensemble appears Saturday, March 2, at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., in a high energy, interactive show demonstrating the fundamentals of tap dance. The noon show is autism-friendly.

Sweetbeatz, performing Saturday, April 6 at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., does original songs that celebrate the spirit and sassiness of kids. The noon show is autism-friendly.

For tickets or more information call (732) 246-7469 or visit STNJ.org. Tickets are $3, which includes the performance, along with milk and a cookie for each child. Space is limited, so families are encouraged to purchase their tickets as early as possible. Performances take place on the second floor of State Theatre New Jersey. There is no elevator access to this space.