TOMS RIVER – A partnership with Toms River Regional Schools will now allow Count Basie Center for the Arts to program, manage tickets, and oversee the facility on event dates as a presenting partner for the RWJBarnabas Health Arena.
“This is a genuine win-win partnership that is going to increase the efficiency and budget flexibility of our school district while helping to expand the vision of one of this area’s most acclaimed arts centers,” said Superintendent David Healy.
Healy noted that the partnership will help to maximize the arena’s potential as a desirable destination in the township. “Because of this arrangement, and with the support of the Greater Toms River Chamber of Commerce, we hope to infuse additional activity and patronage to our downtown and surrounding area restaurants and businesses,” he added.
As a presenting partner, The Basie will work alongside Toms River Regional School District to book shows, secure sponsorships, and promote and manage programming. Events will be marketed under the organization’s “The Basie Presents” banner.
“The Basie is very much looking forward to activating the RWJBarnabas Health Arena space with quality and diverse programming, and engaging families, seniors, and the entirety of the greater Toms River market,” said Adam Philipson, CEO and President of Count Basie Center for the Arts. “We are grateful to Jeremy Grunin and the Grunin Foundation for solidifying this relationship.”
This new relationship intends to advance the profile of the arena as well as enhance shows and events to better serve the community.
“This partnership agreement honors virtually all of our 2018-2019 board-approved goals,” said Board President Russell Corby. “It strengthens our budget, improves the capacity of our facilities, solidifies our bond with the community, and will enable our district to further refine its focus on student achievement. At the same time, the greater Toms River area will be treated to an increase in diverse programming, and more exposure to the arts.”
Healy noted that it is a continuous goal of the district to maximize the capacity of the 3,200-seat arena. “An arrangement like this has been years in the making, and seeing it come to fruition makes me ecstatic for our students and for Toms River.”
For upcoming shows and events, to purchase tickets, or for more information, visit rwjbarnabashealtharena.com/.
