Kick Off the Holiday Season with The Party Scene at Montclair State University, November 22

MONTCLAIR, NJ, November 9, 2026 – Forget the traditional holiday party! The John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University and PEAK Performances invite audiences to kick off the season with The Party Scene, an imaginative new music and dance extravaganza featuring the eclectic acoustic quartet The Hands Free and the wonderfully whimsical Dance Heginbotham.

The performance takes place Sunday, November 22, at 3 p.m. at the Alexander Kasser Theater on the Montclair State University campus.

Inspired by The Nutcracker and the wonderfully unpredictable atmosphere of a holiday office party, The Party Scene blends inventive choreography, joyful melodies, lush musical textures, and explosive improvisation into a festive theatrical experience unlike any other. Part Drosselmeyer, part Turkey Lurkey Time, this playful production puts a fresh, contemporary spin on holiday traditions.

Joining the professional artists onstage will be students from Montclair State University's John J. Cali School of Music and Department of Theatre and Dance, bringing an extra layer of energy and collaboration to this lightly immersive performance.

A Musical and Dance Collaboration Full of Surprises

The Hands Free is an adventurous acoustic quartet known for its distinctive blend of classical, jazz, and folk traditions. Featuring James Moore (guitar and banjo), Christina Courtin (violin), Nathan Koci (accordion), and Eleonore Oppenheim (bass), the ensemble creates a richly textured sound that defies easy categorization.

Their collaborators, Dance Heginbotham, are a New York-based contemporary dance company led by choreographer John Heginbotham. Celebrated for their wit, imagination, and inventive approach to dance theater, the company brings humor, unexpected movement, and theatrical storytelling to the stage.

Together, these two dynamic ensembles create a spirited celebration where music and movement meet in unexpected ways.

A Holiday Celebration for the Whole Family

Designed to delight audiences of all ages, The Party Scene offers a festive afternoon that extends beyond the performance. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday sweaters and enjoy cookies and hot cocoa following the show.

Whether introducing children to live music and dance or gathering friends and family for a seasonal outing, The Party Scene promises a lively and memorable start to the holidays.

Part of the Cali Immersive Residency Program

The performance is presented as part of the John J. Cali School of Music's 2026–27 Immersive Residency Program, which brings distinguished professional artists to Montclair State University for meaningful engagement with students and the broader community.

During their November 16–22 residency, The Hands Free and Dance Heginbotham will participate in masterclasses, workshops, and collaborative learning experiences, giving students opportunities to work directly with accomplished artists. 

Audiences can also enjoy a FREE behind-the-scenes preview of The Party Scene during the Cali Midweek Series on Wednesday, November 18, at 2 p.m. in Leshowitz Recital Hall. This workshop-style event offers a glimpse into the creative process as the artists experiment, collaborate, and bring their new work to life. Reservations are required.

Performance Details

The Party Scene: The Hands Free + Dance Heginbotham

• Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Location: Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ
• Tickets: $35 
• Children under 12 50% Off (Ticket buyers select "12 and UNDER" when adding the seat to their shopping cart)
• Montclair State University students: Free with valid student ID at the Kasser Theater Box Office
• Special activities: Post-performance cookies and cocoa; holiday sweaters encouraged

About the John J. Cali School of Music

The John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University provides students with a comprehensive music education that combines rigorous academic study, exceptional performance opportunities, and meaningful engagement with professional artists. Through its Immersive Residency Program, the School brings leading musicians and creative innovators to campus, enriching the educational experience and connecting audiences with exciting new artistic work.

Learn more at montclair.edu/music.

About PEAK Performances

PEAK Performances presents innovative work by outstanding artists in music, dance, theater, and interdisciplinary performance at Montclair State University's Alexander Kasser Theater, connecting audiences with adventurous contemporary performing arts.

For information, visit peakperfs.org.