By: Veronica Gonmiah
Vanguard Theater Company is proud to announce the launch of the Montclair Theater Festival: Once Upon a Stage, a one-day celebration of theater, creativity, and community taking place Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Glenfield Park in Montclair, NJ.
This new summer tradition invites people of all ages to enjoy a dynamic mix of live performances, interactive activities, and local food and artisan vendors—all in a welcoming outdoor setting.
At the heart of the festival are two signature productions: the high-energy, family favorite Shrek the Musical and a magical, open-air performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Both productions will feature a blend of professional actors and community performers, with upcoming open auditions offering opportunities for performers of all experience levels to get involved.
In addition to the headlining shows, the festival will highlight performances from our season selections and partner with local arts organizations to showcase a wide range of talent from across our community.
Visitors can also take part in hands-on workshops, discover local resources through community tabling, and enjoy a curated selection of food trucks and craft vendors for a full day of summer fun.
Glenfield Park is a beautiful and expansive green space nestled in Montclair’s historic Fourth Ward.
By hosting the Festival here, Vanguard Theater aims to celebrate this park's beauty and vibrancy, activating both the outdoor space and the newly renovated Wally Choice Community Center with performances, workshops, and family activities.
Our goal is to bring people together from across Montclair and beyond to experience the magic of theater, music, and community in one joyful, inclusive space.
"We envision the Montclair Theater Festival as a place where everyone belongs — where professional artists, emerging talent, and community members come together to share in the joy of creativity. It’s about celebrating the arts, activating our beautiful public spaces, and creating memories that reflect the vibrant diversity of Montclair." — Janeece Freeman Clark, Producing Artistic Director, Vanguard Theater Company
Presented by Vanguard Theater Company, the Montclair Theater Festival is made possible with support from our partners and sponsors.
We are currently seeking additional sponsors to help grow this exciting new tradition.
Admission is free and open to the public. For updates, audition announcements, and the full festival schedule, visit vanguardtheatercompany.org or follow @vtcnj on social media.
Montclair Theater Festival: Once Upon a Stage
Saturday, July 12, 2025
1 p.m.-6 p.m.
Glenfield Park, Montclair, NJ
Admission is FREE
Follow along for updates and the full lineup at @vtcnj on social media or visit www.vanguardtheatercompany.org/montclair-theater-festival