This year marks 25 years after the first Harry Potter book first turned many children into avid readers — and the beloved series has never been in worse shape.
In recent years the series’ author, J.K. Rowling, has repeatedly expressed concern about the effect that trans rights legislation will have on women and girls — transphobic views that have moved her fans and opponents alike to call her a transgender exclusionary radical feminist, or “TERF.” The series itself has been heavily criticized for its functional but ungraceful prose, numerous plot holes, and reliance on stereotypes of marginalized groups, including antisemitic goblins and an Irish character known for blowing up his spells. As a result, a generation who grew up with The Boy Who Lived are abandoning the series and moving on.
It’s a complicated time to still consider myself a fan of the original story.
When I first learned about J.K. Rowling’s transphobic views, I was devastated. Like many other millennials, I considered myself to be a card-carrying member of the Harry Potter generation, graduating from high school right as the seventh and final book in the series was released. I loved being a part of many literary fandoms, from The Chronicles of Narnia to The Lord of the Rings, and the Harry Potterseries was my favorite.
But for me, Harry Potter fandom wasn’t just about enjoying a fun book series or exploring a fantasy world; reading J.K. Rowling’s books transformed my understanding of the Christian faith, helping me scrutinize my fundamentalist Baptist upbringing and eventually leave conservative Christianity. Characters like the Weasley family and Hermione Granger — who stood with muggle-born wizards and house elves when others in the magical community did not — taught me what it means to love and welcome my neighbor. Similarly, the protagonists’ protracted struggle to convince the Ministry of Magic to take Lord Voldemort’s return seriously enabled me to see more clearly the way the structures in our world, including our churches and government, fall short. I didn’t want to become a person who ignored things that were evil; I wanted to be someone who took action to end them.
I was in elementary school when the first Harry Potter books were published in the United States. At the time, I was a painfully shy and awkward child; I treasured my library card and found solace in the stacks of books I carried home from our local branch. Though I was a prime target for a sensational new children’s book series, my parents — like the rest of our fundamentalist Baptist church — deemed anything about witchcraft inappropriate reading for good Christian children.
I pleaded with them for months and we finally struck a bargain: I would read the book alongside my parents, and we would discuss any concerning themes; they relented. I was elated as I brought home Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. By the end of the book, I felt confident they would see what I had seen: a battle between good and evil, hate and love — one that mirrored the child-size theology about God and sin I had been taught in Sunday school. The story seemed wholesome, like an obvious fit for me.
My parents disagreed. “It has witches in it,” my mother shrugged. “It’s not appropriate.” They told me not to read any more of the books; I was devastated — but accepted the challenge.
On my second day of middle school, I found Julianne, a fellow nerdy kid and now-lifelong friend. She was also Christian, but unlike me, her family attended a church that was part of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) denomination. She was allowed to read the book series, which seemed deeply unfair.
We devised a plan: Julianne would bring me the other books that had been released, and I would sneak them into my bedroom to read once my parents had gone to sleep. It worked brilliantly, though my mother became increasingly suspicious when the corner of my mattress popped up higher and higher as each book was thicker than the previous one.
As I read more books from the world of Harry Potter and beyond, I began thinking critically about what happens when communities accept and even celebrate differences, especially the differences that often mark someone as an outsider. I began to consider how evil forces can corrupt trusted systems, even systems with well-meaning adults at the helm. In the books, it took people outside of the established power structures of magical society to see the good and the evil in the wizarding world. Neither the Minister of Magic nor the upper-class members of the wizarding community save the day; it was the bravery and courage and love coming from ordinary and often marginalized wizards and magical creatures that ultimately prevailed. It made me wonder what else the cookie-cutter, prosperity gospel-focused side of the Christian church, and my own faith by extension, was missing.
Eventually, I left the fundamentalist church of my childhood. I took a break from Christianity, then joined Julianne’s church, which seemed to more closely reflect what Jesus called his followers to do. I befriended kids from many faith backgrounds at summer camp, and by the time the sixth book came out, I was the rebellious goth kid standing in line at Barnes Noble to get my copy at midnight.
So when I think about the Harry Potter books today, I’m left wondering: what now? How do I engage with a series that isn’t spectacularly well written, whose author has taken a stand against people I love and care about?
I will always have mixed feelings about it because of who I am and how my story played out. The series isn’t exactly the pinnacle of fantasy writing, and I will always mourn for its shortcomings, the views of its author, and those who could have been reached through it if she hadn’t alienated so many with her hurtful, oppressive views. I am happy to financially abandon the franchise, supporting only the independent creators who are inspired by the book series. I still own the book series, though it no longer has place of pride on the main bookshelf in my living room. And instead of re-reading the books, I’m more likely to listen to podcasts like Witch, Please, which thoughtfully and critically examine the story through a progressive academic lens.
But it was a crucial part of the path that led me to where I am now in my faith journey. My story is intertwined with the story of Hermione’s house-elf activism, Luna’s dedicated friendship despite knowing her peers see her as an oddball, and the Order of the Phoenix speaking against the powers of Death Eaters in their midst. And when I speak truth to power, I’m reminded of Harry himself, resisting the authority of the adults in his life who wanted him to lie for their benefit and, instead, choosing to tell the truth, even when it was hard or inconvenient — remarkably like the teachings of Jesus. Without Harry Potter, I wouldn’t be the progressive Christian I am today, and a part of me will always love the series for giving me that.
Try as it might, Hogwarts Legacy developer Avalanche Software can’t magically make its creation arrive any sooner. In fact, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment has once again delayed the game, which at least now has a firm release date. It will hit PC, PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S on February 10th. The Switch release date will be announced sometime soon, indicating that version faces a further delay.
“The team is excited for you to play, but we need a little more time to deliver the best possible game experience,” a tweet on the Hogwarts Legacy Twitter account reads. The game was announced at the tail end of 2020 with a release expected the following year. Warner Bros. pushed back Hogwarts Legacy to 2022 and later said it would arrive sometime this holiday season. However, it has delayed the game once more.
Hogwarts Legacy is an action RPG that takes place in the Harry Potter universe, though it’s set long before The Boy Who Lived, well, lived. As a student at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, you’ll craft potions, learn spells, tame wild creatures and (ugh) attend classes. Shockingly enough, you’ll need to take what you learned and use it to fend off your enemies.
As posted to the r/HarryPotterGame subreddit, menu elements appear for as little as a few frames. The image below, which has been brightened to highlight them, shows off four spells and what could possibly be a mini-map in the top left corner.
While it’s likely that these HUD elements are temporary placeholders, it does give some indication of the spells that players could have at their disposal in the game.
Based on the image and in the context of the clip, it’s possible that the four spells the character has access to are Accio (which brings things to the user, as depicted by the blue icon), Wingardium Leviosa (which causes objects to levitate, as depicted by the gold icon), Lumos (which illuminates the environment around the caster, as depicted by the grey icon), and Expelliarmus, which is used by the player in the seconds following this image in the video.
Due to be published under Warner’s Portkey Games label, it was originally scheduled to be released in 2021 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC.
Amtrak has become the official travel partner of the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia’s new exhibit, Harry Potter: The Exhibition, available now through September 18.
As the official travel partner, Amtrak is promoting the exhibition and the ten routes to the city’s William H Gray III 30th Street Station (PHL), which is located within a mile of the Franklin Institute.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition is a 21-gallery, 18,000-square-foot exhibit encompassing all things Harry Potter, including beloved Hogwarts places such as the castle, Hagrid’s Hut, the four houses and the Great Hall.
Children and adults alike will be immersed in the Wizarding World, getting to choose their own houses, wand and Patronus, with personalized interactions with parts of the exhibit via an RFID wristband, which catalogs a person’s choices made throughout the exhibit.
“Amtrak is proud to serve as an official transportation partner for Harry Potter: The Exhibition at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia,” said Amtrak Assistant Vice President National Advertising Brand Management, Darlene Abubakar. “By taking Amtrak, families can travel to the Exhibition without dealing with the hassles of driving, expensive gas prices and parking. Remember to book early for the best Amtrak fares.”
Amtrak offers routes to Philadelphia from places such as Florida, Vermont and Chicago, with Amtrak Saver Fares available for the best rates.
Harry Potter fans have been treated to brand new footage of an upcoming online game taking place in the Wizarding World. Hogwarts Legacy was first announced in 2020 and since then not a lot of news regarding the game’s development has been announced.
But a State of Play update has provided a whopping 14 minutes of gameplay footage showing what hopeful wizards can expect from the game. Developers Avalanche Software have also provided some plot details so players can get a grasp on the story they will be directly involved in. The game will be set in the 1800s before any of the Harry Potter or Fantastic Beasts events have taken place.
Players will be taking on the role of a fifth-year Hogwarts student, engaging in wizarding duels, learning potions and coming to grips with flying a broomstick. The game will also feature plenty of magical creatures, some of which will play a key role in the game’s story as rumours spread of a ‘goblin rebellion’.
When will Hogwarts Legacy launch?
No official date has yet been given for Hogwarts Legacy launch but fans can expect the game to launch sometime this year.
The game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC so fans won’t have to fork out money on a new console just to play.
Did J.K Rowling write the story for the game?
The Wizarding World author has come under a wave of criticism recently for her negative comments towards transgender people. Because of this, some fans raised concerns over supporting the game as it is directly linked to the controversial author.
But it appears Rowling’s involvement in the game was limited with Warner Bros officially stating: “J.K. Rowling is not directly involved in the creation of the game, however, her extraordinary body of writing is the foundation of all projects in the Wizarding World.”
The book was published in the United States as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
The Dallas-based auction house said only 500 copies with the specific binding were printed. The final price was more than six times the pre-sale estimate of $70,000. Previous auction prices for Harry Potter first editions have ranged from about $110,000 to $138,000.
“Not only is it the most expensive Harry Potter book ever sold, it’s the most expensive commercially published 20th-century work of fiction ever sold,” Heritage Auctions Executive Vice President Joe Maddalena said in a statement.
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The book was sold by an American collector and the name of the buyer was not released. British author J.K. Rowling went on to write six more books about the adventures of the orphaned boy wizard that have sold some 500 million copies worldwide in 80 languages, according to
U.S. publisher Scholastic. The books were turned into eight films which made $7.8 billion at the global box office.
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The Tony-winning Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will again celebrate the four Hogwarts houses with a special performance dedicated to each house.
For the uninitiated, Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw are the four living and learning communities for Hogwarts students, named after the wizarding school’s four founders. Ravenclaws will be celebrated March 23, Hufflepuffs on March 30, Slytherins on April 6, and Gryffindors on April 13 at the Lyric Theatre.
Ticket buyers will have access to a limited number of $79 orchestra and dress circle seats. The first 100 audience members who arrive early on each Wednesday evening will receive early admission to the theatre at 5:30 PM with access to concessions, the gift shop, and AR experiences. They will also receive a special gift and the opportunity to participate in the house pride costume contest. Tickets for these performances can be purchased by clicking here.
The newly condensed, one-part production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child opened December 7, 2021, at the Lyric Theatre following the COVID-19 pandemic. Previews began November 12.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child first opened on Broadway as a two-part experience April 22, 2018. The production would go on to be nominated for 10 Tony Awards, winning five, including Best Play.
Based on a new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne, and John Tiffany, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a play by Thorne, directed by Tiffany.
The production also features movement by Steven Hoggett, set by Christine Jones, costumes by Katrina Lindsay, music and arrangements by Imogen Heap, lighting by Neil Austin, sound by Gareth Fry, illusions and magic by Jamie Harrison, and music supervision and arrangements by Martin Lowe. U.S. casting is by Jim Carnahan.
Check Out New Photos of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway
The teaser shows different actors receiving their invitation letters wrapped in an envelope similar to the letters sent to Hogwarts students. We see Robbie Coltrane (Hagrid) and Mark Williams (Arthur Weasley) boarding the Hogwarts Express, the train that travels from London’s King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade station near Hogwarts.
A lot of cast and crew members from the movies are in the list of attendees. Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Tom Felton, Helena Bonham Carter, Gary Oldman, Ralph Fiennes and Chris Columbus among others are in the list.
A name conspicuous by its absence is JK Rowling. The author has been mired in controversy over her alleged transphobic comments on social media and on her website, and clearly Warner Bros and HBO Max wanted to avoid all potential brouhaha.
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The special likely will not be scripted and will follow the model of the recent Friends reunion, which featured conversations, tidbits, anecdotes and new revelations.
Harry Potter movies were both critical and commercial success and helped Rowling become one of the most successful authors ever. With 500 million copies reportedly sold worldwide, Harry Potter remains the highest-selling book series in history.
It told the story of a boy called Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), whose parents died protecting him from the Dark Lord Voldemort, a powerful practitioner of dark magical arts.
As Harry Potter grows up, he learns that magic not only exists but is taught in schools around the world and wizards and witches live a parallel life away from the prying eyes of non-magical people, who are called muggles. Harry is invited to one such school called Hogwarts, which is situated somewhere in Scottish highlands.
At Hogwarts, Harry makes friends, and also enemies due to his heritage, and fulfills the prophecy that he will be responsible for the end of Voldemort and his Death Eaters (as his followers were called).
As posted to the r/HarryPotterGame subreddit, menu elements appear for as little as a few frames. The image below, which has been brightened to highlight them, shows off four spells and what could possibly be a mini-map in the top left corner.
While it’s likely that these HUD elements are temporary placeholders, it does give some indication of the spells that players could have at their disposal in the game.
Based on the image and in the context of the clip, it’s possible that the four spells the character has access to are Accio (which brings things to the user, as depicted by the blue icon), Wingardium Leviosa (which causes objects to levitate, as depicted by the gold icon), Lumos (which illuminates the environment around the caster, as depicted by the grey icon), and Expelliarmus, which is used by the player in the seconds following this image in the video.
Due to be published under Warner’s Portkey Games label, it was originally scheduled to be released in 2021 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC.
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The Hogwarts Houses gallery sets the foundation for the exhibition experience, allowing guests the opportunity to experience more personalized moments with the house they select during their preregistration. While guests may gravitate towards one house this gallery allows visitors to experience all of the Hogwarts houses in a celebratory hall featuring an iconic Sorting Hat Photo Experience while surrounded by freshly designed house crests on meticulously created stained glass windows.
In this nearly 2,000-square-foot gallery, fans will discover house facts, snap interactive portraits with the Sorting Hat, engage with select costumes and props, and connect with beloved characters and story moments through activated prop displays.
They will learn about the legendary houses and their distinctive characteristics and continue their own exhibition experience through personalized digital activation moments.
The exhibit runs from Feb. 18 through Sept. 18. Daytime hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and evening hours are from 5 to 8 p.m.
Tickets are $30 to $59.
The institute is at 222 N. 20th St., in Philadelphia.
Masks are required for all guests ages 3 and older regardless of vaccination status. Proof of vaccination is not required to visit The Franklin Institute. Proof of vaccination will be required to enter The Eatery.
For tickets or information, call (215) 448-1200 or visit fi.edu.
For exhibit information, visit www.HarryPotterExhibition.com.
Chocolate Wine Weekend planned at Valenzano Winery
Valenzano Winery, with a little help from LeBelge Chocolatier in Napa Valley, Calif., will celebrate Chocolate Wine Weekend from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Feb. 19 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 20.
This year’s chocolate wine tasting will include a deluxe box of chocolates and truffles produced exclusively for winery by LaBelge.
This tasting, which costs $20, includes:
LeBelge 85 percent Dark Chocolate and Cacao Nibs paired with Valenzano Cabernet/Merlot.
LeBelge Dark Chocolate Drift with Valenzano Destinations Malbec.
LeBelge Caramelized Pecan Truffle with Valenzano Shamong Labrusca.
LeBelge Raspberry Rose Truffle paired with Valenzano Jersey Devil Port.
Reservations are not required for the tasting.
The event also features wine cocktails including sweetheart rose and chocolate cupid plus lunch and dinner specials.
The winery is at 1090 Route 206 in Shamong.
For information, call (609) 268-6731 or visit valenzanowine.com
For details on Wine and Chocolate Weekend celebrations at other New Jersey wineries on Feb. 19 and 20, visit www.newjerseywines.com.
The Ritz and Camden County College partner to present ‘Greater Tuna’
The Ritz Theatre Company and Camden County College are partnering to present “Greater Tuna” by Jaston Williams, Joe Sears and Ed Howard, a hilarious send-up of small-town morals and mores that features just two actors creating the entire population of Tuna (Texas’ third-smallest town) in a “tour de farce” of quick change artistry.
At the helm for this Ritz production is Moxie Sokoloff, a revered director and theater teacher at CCC, who opened the show at the college this past November.
This run at The Ritz, makes it one of those rare South Jersey “transfer” productions that reunites the exact same cast and crew.
Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 16, 8 p.m. Feb. 18 and 19, 2 p.m. Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23, 8 p.m. Feb. 25 and 26, and 2 p.m. Feb. 27.
Tickets are $30 for general admission or $15 for artist/student rush.
The theater is at 915 White Horse Pike in Haddon Township.
Proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results required for ages 5 and older, see website for details.
For tickets or information, call (856) 288-3500 or visit www.RitzTheatreCo.org.
Enjoy concerts and shows at the Levoy Theatre
A variety of events are planned at the Levoy Theatre.
The schedule includes:
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” adapted for the stage by Simon Levy, presented by Gloucester County Institute of Technology drama students, 8 p.m. Feb. 18, 2 and 8 p.m. Feb. 19 and 3 p.m. Feb. 20, tickets $15 for adults and $12 for children.
Shadows of the 60s, a tribute to Motown, 8 p.m. Feb. 25, tickets $34 to $39.
Hollywood Nights, a Bob Seger Experience, 8 p.m. Feb. 26, tickets $26 to $34.
Lotus Land, the American RUSH tribute, 8 p.m. March 5, tickets $35 to $49.
“Warriors Don’t Cry,” 2 p.m. March 6, tickets $10.
The Moody Blues’ John Lodge, 7:30 p.m. March 9, tickets $44 to $65.
“Artrageous,” an interactive, high energy art show for all ages, www.artrageousshow.com, 10:30 a.m. March 10, tickets $12, and 7 p.m. March 10, tickets $30 to $35.
The theater is at 130 N. High St., in Millville.
For tickets or information, call (856) 327-6400 or visit levoy.net.
Sports Card Collectibles show planned in Bordentown
RK Sports Promotions will host a Sports Card Collectibles Show from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Town Inn.
The show will feature more than 40 tables with old and new sports cards, comic books, starting line-ups, MacFarlane figures, non-sports cards, Magic The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh, supplies, unopened wax packs and boxes, autographed memorabilia, sets, posters and more.
The Inn is at 1083 Route 206 North in Bordentown.
For information, visit www.rksportspromotions.com.
Enjoy a variety of concerts at the Landis Theater
The Landis Theater will host a variety of concerts including:
Songs in the Attic, the music of Billy Joel featuring David Clark, 8 p.m. Feb. 18, tickets $20.
Sincerely Yours, 8 p.m. Feb. 25, tickets $20.
Tributes +, 8 p.m. Feb. 26, tickets $20.
An Evening of Sinatra, starring Lou Dottoli and The Next Generation Big Band, 8 p.m. March 4, tickets $20.
Draw the Line, an Aerosmith tribute, 8 p.m. March 5, tickets $20.
A Night of Metal: Ultimate Live Evil, Dio tribute with the Ancient Mariners and Victim of Vengeance, 8 p.m. March 12, tickets $20.
The theater is at 830 E. Landis Ave., in Vineland.
For tickets or information, call (856) 691-3600 or visit thelandistheater.com.
Whitesbog hosts Saturday Market
Whitesbog Preservation Trust will host Saturday Markets from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays this winter, weather permitting.
Enjoy shopping at assorted vendors and at the General Store for local handmade items and tasty jams, honey, chocolates, walking sticks and more.
Visitors may also want to grab a trail map and head out for a hike around the trails and bogs.
Whitesbog is at 120 W. Whites Bog Road #34 in Browns Mills.
For information, visit whitesbog.org.
Crafts Collectibles Show and more planned for President’s Weekend
Cape May MAC will host its annual Craft and Collectibles Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 19 and 20 at the Cape May Convention Hall at 714 Beach Ave., in Cape May.
The show will feature crafters and vendors from throughout the northeast.
Admission is $2.
Other activities planned for President’s Day Weekend include:
Cape May Family Treasure Hunt.
Physick Estate Scavenger Hunt.
Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tour.
Historic District Trolley Tour.
Visit Cape May Lighthouse.
Visit Carroll Gallery.
Emlen Physick Estate Tour.
Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour.
For information, call (609) 884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.
Celebrate Third Friday in Millville
Glasstown Arts District will host Third Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Feb. 17 at art galleries, shops, restaurants and more along High Street and in Downtown Millville.
Among the highlights are:
Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts will feature an artists’ reception with an opportunity to view the In Your Dreams Group Show, Society of NJ Artists Officer’s Exhibit, RRCA Affiliate Artist Members Annual Exhibit, artwork by Janis Quiggle Carol Hiemenz, and enjoy music by Adelante, www.rrcarts.com.
Bogart’s Bookstore Cafe will have live music from 7 to 9 p.m., Facebook: Bogarts Books.
Village on High shops will display and sell a wide assortment of handcrafted pieces and fashion items, Facebook: Village on High.
For information, visit Glasstown Arts District at www.glasstownartsdistrict.com.
Enjoy ‘The Jungle Book’ at Broadway Theatre of Pitman
Broadway Theatre of Pitman will continue its children’s theatre season with “The Jungle Book” at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Feb. 19.
When a baby is left alone in the jungles of India a family of wolves adopts him as one of their own.
But, when Shere Khan, the tiger, returns to the jungles of India, the boy must return to the man village.
Join Mowgli, Baloo and Bagheera on this original musical adventure as they meet monkeys, buzzards, and a slinky old snake named Kaa!
Tickets are $10.
The theater is at 43 S. Broadway in Pitman.
For tickets or information, call (856) 384-8381 or visit www.thebroadwaytheatre.org.
Get ‘Dancin’ in the Streets’ with the Philly POPS
The Philly POPS gets grooving with Dancin’ in the Streets: The Music of Motown at the Kimmel Cultural Campus. Show times are 8 p.m. Feb. 18 and 3 p.m. Feb. 19 and 20.
The performance features the full Philly POPS orchestra on timeless Motown hits, including songs from iconic artists Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder and more, with a nod to Philly’s own legendary producers, Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff.
Celebrating the Motown sound, the POPS welcomes guest conductor Byron Stripling with Hairspray stars Shayna Steele and Chester Gregory and American Idol finalist and charted RB artist Michael Lynche.
Songs include “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Let’s Groove Tonight,” “Reach Out I’ll Be There,” “Dancing In The Street,” “I Heard it Through The Grapevine,” “My Girl,” “Superstition” and more.
Tickets start at $35, except Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders can purchase tickets for $2.
Concerts will be presented in Verizon Hall in Kimmel Center for Performing Arts at 300 S. Broad St., in Philadelphia.
Guests are required to provide proof of vaccination and wear masks while in the building.
For tickets or information, call (215) 893-1999 or visit www.phillypops.org/motown.
Dave Mason to perform at Scottish Rite Auditorium
Dave Mason will perform at 8 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Scottish Rite Auditorium.
Mason was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a founding member of Traffic in 2004. One of his most well-known songs is “Feelin’ Alright,” recorded by Traffic in 1968 and later by many other performers, including Joe Cocker, who had a major hit with the song in 1969. Mason also wrote “Hole In My Shoe,” for Traffic, which became a hit in its own right and he recorded “We Just Disagree,” his 1977 solo U.S., hit written by Jim Krueger.
Tickets are $39.50 to $85.
The auditorium is 315 White Horse Pike at in Collingswood.
The event organizer requires all attendees to present negative COVID-19 test results or be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
The show is presented by the Camden County Board of Commissioners.
For tickets or information, call 856.858.1000 or visit scottishriteauditorium.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Flamenco Vivo set to perform Spanish Dance at Stockton
GALLOWAY – Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana, a premier Spanish dance company, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 18 at the Stockton Performing Arts Center.
Flamenco Vivo builds bridges between cultures using the universal spirit of Flamenco.
This program will feature Tablao Flamenco, which captures the spirit of Spain’s flamenco cafes. Named after the wooden floor used by a bailaor (dancer), tablao performances are highly virtuosic and improvisational, offering audiences a rare opportunity to watch the dynamic interplay between song and dance.
Tickets are $32 with discounts available for seniors, children and groups.
The center is on the campus of Stockton University at 101 Vera King Farris Drive.
For tickets or information, call (609) 652-9000 or visit www.stockton.edu/pac. Tickets also are available at the box office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 90 minutes before showtime.
Ritz Kidz presents ‘Sleeping Beauty’
Ritz Theatre Company’s Ritz Kidz will present “Sleeping Beauty” at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Feb. 19.
Join Mr. Robert and friends as they recount the famous fairytale about a beautiful, brave, benevolent princess who pricks her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and falls into a deep sleep, thus fulfilling a curse set upon her years ago by a fiendish fairy.
Will true love’s kiss be enough to save the day and break the spell?
Hopefully, Mr. Robert can find a certain Prince Charming to conjure up a happy ending!
Tickets are $10.
All audience members ages 5 and older will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID-19 test to enter the theater. Masks are required.
The theater is at 915 White Horse Pike in Haddon Township.
For tickets or information, call (856) 288-3500 or visit ritztheatreco.org.
The Hit Men take the stage at the Broadway Theatre of Pitman
Broadway Theatre of Pitman will present The Hit Men, who have performed with some of rock roll’s legendary performers, at 8 p.m. Feb. 18.
During this show, The Hit Men will bring on the hits by artists they have performed with on stage and in the recording studio with songs such as “Don’t Stop Believing,” “Who Loves You?,” “Pinball Wizard” and more.
Plus, they’ll take the audience behind the scenes with “insider” stories about what it was like on the road and in the recording sessions with rock royalty.
Tickets are $35.
The theater is at 43 S. Broadway in Pitman.
For tickets or information, call (856) 384-8381 or visit www.thebroadwaytheatre.org.
Nature and Environmental Fun Day planned in OC
The Ocean City Environmental Commission will sponsor a free, family-friendly, Nature and Environmental Fun Day, from 10:30 a.m. to noon Feb. 19 at the Ocean City Music Pier.
The event will include zoo animals, crafts, games, a recycling activity and more.
The event is expected to include:
Cape May County Zoo: Animals.
Cape May County Municipal Utility Authority: Recycling information and activity.
Ocean City Environmental Commission: Crafts, native plant seedling origami package and a beach plum planting sign-up.
Ocean City High School Student Environmental Association: Games.
Bowfish Kids: Composting and trash reduction.
Ocean City Public Works: Reusable bags.
The Music Pier is at Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace.
Penn Live Arts presents Trinity Irish Dance Company
Penn Live Arts will present Trinity Irish Dance Company, progressive Irish dance, at 8 p.m. Feb. 18 and 2 and 8 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Zellerbach Theatre.
The theater is in the Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut St., in Philadelphia.
Tickets start at $57.
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required, except ages 11 and younger must show proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 PCR test.
For tickets, call (215) 898-3900 or visit pennlivearts.org
Cirque Zuma Zuma Acrobats to perform at Stockton PAC
Young and old alike will be dazzled by Cirque Zuma Zuma African acrobats, who will tumble onto the stage at 2 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Stockton Performing Arts Center.
Cirque Zuma Zuma is a fast-paced 80-minute program performed by male and female dancers to the music of Kanye West, Michael Jackson, Coldplay, The Beatles, Robin Thicke, Usher, Queen, Justin Timberlake and more.
Performances include different types of African culture, including: South African female vocalist, Limbo Dance, female dancers from Africa, South African gumboot dancers, amazing pole acts, Zuma Zuma acrobats, chairs and handstand balancing from Tanzania, comedy, Gabonese Tumblers, contortionists from Ethiopia, The Africa Africa Lion dance, percussionists from Zimbabwe, club and Ethiopian foot table juggling.
Tickets are $32, with discounts for seniors, children and groups.
The center is on the campus of Stockton University at 101 Vera King Farris Drive.
For tickets or information, call (609) 652-9000 or visit www.stockton.edu/pac. Tickets also are available at the box office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 90 minutes before showtim.
Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City announces Black History Month tribute
ATLANTIC CITY – Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City’s tribute to Black History Month will include a pop-up exhibit, an Atlantic City musical revue, a performance by Grammy award-winning artist Kirk Franklin and more.
African American Heritage Museum Pop-Up Exhibit
The property is partnering with the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey to present the “Jackie Robinson: Stealing Home” and “This Little Light of Mine: The Black Church” exhibits. The free pop-up museum will run from Feb. 17 to 20 and will be located at the entrance of Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. Those visiting will explore videos, photos and personal memorabilia that pay homage to the first African American professional baseball player and also to the rich history of regional black houses of worship. The museum was created with the passion of its founder, Ralph E. Hunter, Sr.
Entertainment
Hard Rock Atlantic City will present On Kentucky Avenue, a musical revue celebrating Atlantic City’s famed Club Harlem. The show will be presented at 8 p.m. Feb. 18 and 4 and 8 p.m. Feb. 19 in Sound Waves. The show features both original music and sounds from the 1960s that showcase acts like Otis Redding, Berry Gordy, the Isley Brothers, Johnny Mercer and more. Tickets are $25.
Legendary urban gospel singer and sixteen-time Grammy award-winning artist, Kirk Franklin will take the stage at 8 p.m. Feb. 26 at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. Tickets start at $39. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey.
Tickets for shows are available online by visiting www.HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com.
Legendary Memorabilia Tour
Hard Rock Atlantic City is celebrating African American artists and their musical influences and contributions by offering an exclusive property-wide memorabilia tour. The tour includes memorabilia that legendary black artists wore throughout their career in the industry. Highlights include Prince, Whitney Houston, Clarence Clemons, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Nicki Minaj, Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, and more. Those looking to take the tour will simply scan the QR code on signage throughout the property and instructions for the self-guided tour will be provided.
For information or to book your stay, visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.
The King’s Singers present ‘Masterpiece’ at Stockton PAC
The King’s Singers will present “Masterpiece” at Stockton`s Performing Arts Center on 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22.
The King’s Singers have represented the gold standard in a cappella singing on the world’s greatest stages for more than 50 years. They are renowned for their unrivalled technique, versatility and skill in performance.
“Masterpiece” is a selection of some of the most iconic of their pieces, from the last 53 years. It’s a program that’s as full of fun as it is musical brilliance. It’s designed to make you laugh and think.
Tickets are $35 with discounts available for seniors, children and groups.
The center is on the campus of Stockton University at 101 Vera King Farris Drive.
For tickets or information, call (609) 652-9000 or visit www.stockton.edu/pac. Tickets also are available at the box office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 90 minutes before showtime.
Last chance to see Haddonfield Plays and Players’ ‘Songs for a New World’
“It’s about one moment. It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice… or take a stand… or turn around and go back.”
Haddonfield Plays and Players will present Jason Robert Brown’s musical, “Songs for a New World.”
Show times are 8 p.m. Feb. 17 and 18 and 3 and 8 p.m. Feb. 19.
Tickets are $30.
Haddonfield Plays and Players is at 957 E. Atlantic Ave., in Haddonfield.
For tickets or information, call (856) 429-8139 or visit www.haddonfieldplayers.com.
VisitSouthJersey.com contributed to this report. Send event information and community news items to lvoit@gannett.com. Help support local journalism with a digital subscription to The Daily Journal/ Courier Post/ Burlington County Times.
