Count Basie Theater breaks ground on 23M PAC expansion

Red Bank’s Count Basie Theater recently announced it broke ground on a $23 million expansion to transform the historic theater into a regional performing arts center.The theater was also awarded a $2 million gift from the Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation at the ceremony.

“We are excited to play our part in a project that is sure to make a tremendous impact on the cultural and educational landscape of the Jersey Shore,” Jay Grunin, co-founder of the Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation, said. “The alignment of the Basie’s mission and our foundation’s mission make this a perfect marriage and one that we hope to continue to build upon for many years to come.”

Also at the event, the theater announced the creation of the Jay and Linda Grunin Arts and Education Building, which is set to house studios, classrooms and office space for Basie’s arts and education programs, and a second performance venue.

“It’s very gratifying to have arrived at this day,” Adam Philipson, CEO and president of Count Basie Theatre, said. “This is a day that the entire staff and board have relentlessly been working towards.  What was once our dream, is now fast becoming our reality.”

Count Basie first announced the expansion in 2015.