From the Diamond to the Drama: A Theatre & Comedy Guide for Somerset Patriots Fans in Bridgewater, NJ
When the lights dim at TD Bank Ballpark and the final out is recorded, entertainment doesn’t have to end. For fans of the Somerset Patriots—Bridgewater’s beloved minor league baseball team—central New Jersey and the nearby New York metropolitan area offer a stage of a different kind: Broadway musicals, award-winning comedy
When the lights dim at TD Bank Ballpark and the final out is recorded, entertainment doesn’t have to end. For fans of the Somerset Patriots—Bridgewater’s beloved minor league baseball team—central New Jersey and the nearby New York metropolitan area offer a stage of a different kind: Broadway musicals, award-winning comedy acts, and historical theatres that ignite passion just like a ninth-inning rally. Whether you’re a lifelong Patriot fan or just passing through for a game, this guide spotlights top musicals, must-see comedians, and local venues that will bring the drama, laughs, and ovations every bit as satisfying as a walk-off home run.
Theatre Venues Near Bridgewater to Catch the Spotlight
State Theatre New Jersey – New Brunswick, NJ
Built: 1921
Capacity: Approx. 1,850 seats
This restored vaudeville and movie palace has transformed into one of New Jersey’s most prominent performing arts venues. Broadway tours, concerts, and major comedy acts frequently fill its historic stage.
Paper Mill Playhouse – Millburn, NJ
Established: 1938
Capacity: 1,200 seats
As New Jersey’s official state theatre, the Paper Mill Playhouse is known for producing Broadway-caliber performances. Several of its productions, like Newsies and Bandstand, have transferred directly to New York’s biggest stages.
Mayo Performing Arts Center – Morristown, NJ
Founded: 1937
Capacity: About 1,300 seats
The Mayo PAC offers an impressive lineup of musicals, orchestras, ballets, and comedians throughout the year, giving Somerset County locals a steady stream of cultural hits without needing to venture into Manhattan.
Must-See Broadway Musicals That Hit All the Right Notes
Wicked Tickets
Since 2003, Wicked has soared to iconic status with the backstory of Oz’s misunderstood witch, Elphaba. Featuring powerful songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good,” Stephen Schwartz’s score and Winnie Holzman’s book turned the tale into a blockbuster, earning three Tony Awards and a Grammy.
Les Misérables Tickets
A sweeping epic of justice and redemption, Les Misérables debuted on Broadway in 1987 and has moved generations with ballads like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More.” The show, adapted from Victor Hugo’s novel, won eight Tony Awards and continues to tour the world more than 35 years later.
Six The Musical Tickets
The six wives of Henry VIII take center stage in Six, a concert-style musical that reclaims their voices through pop-infused storytelling. Premiering in the UK in 2017 and landing on Broadway in 2020, it features hits like “Don’t Lose Ur Head” and “Get Down.” The show earned two Tony Awards, including Best Score.
Musical Sampler Platter
- Debut: 2001 (Broadway)
- Based On: Songs by ABBA
- Famous Hits: “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper”
- Fun Fact: One of the longest-running jukebox musicals, with over $2 billion in global revenue.
- Debut: 2023
- Genre: Country-pop musical comedy
- Highlights: Original score by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally
- Awards: Tony for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.
Beetlejuice - The Musical Tickets
- Debut: 2019
- Adaptation Of: Tim Burton’s cult classic
- Notables: Eight Tony nominations, songs like “Say My Name.”
Hamilton Tickets
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s historical juggernaut Hamilton premiered on Broadway in 2015 and hasn’t slowed since. The show reimagines the life of Alexander Hamilton using hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes. It has won 11 Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize and continues to tour with tremendous success.
Dear Evan Hansen Tickets
This 2016 smash hit from Pasek and Paul captured hearts with its emotionally charged exploration of teenage anxiety and the human need for connection. Songs like “Waving Through a Window” and “You Will Be Found” drove the show to six Tony wins, including Best Musical.
Hairspray Tickets
Hairspray is an upbeat, dance-heavy musical set in 1960s Baltimore, following Tracy Turnblad’s journey to integrate a local TV dance show. Its premiere on Broadway in 2002 led to eight Tony Awards. Songs like “You Can’t Stop the Beat” remain audience favorites.
Blue Man Group Tickets
Blurring the lines between performance art, percussion, and absurdity, Blue Man Group has been a staple of off-Broadway since the early 1990s. It’s a unique spectacle of sound and color, with no dialogue but endless creativity. Perfect for audiences of all ages.
Chicago - The Musical Tickets
With its slick jazz numbers and sharp satire, Chicago has captivated Broadway since its 1996 revival. The musical tells the tale of two women on trial for murder in Prohibition-era Chicago and features the unforgettable “Cell Block Tango” and “All That Jazz.” It holds the record for the longest-running American musical on Broadway.
Back to the Future - The Musical Tickets
This adaptation of the 1985 blockbuster took London’s West End by storm before arriving on Broadway in 2023. The show includes iconic tunes like “The Power of Love” along with new songs by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard. It won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical.
Comedy’s Heavy Hitters Near Somerset
Taylor Tomlinson Tickets
Taylor Tomlinson has quickly emerged as a leading voice in comedy thanks to her introspective, self-deprecating humor. Her Netflix specials Quarter-Life Crisis and Look at You showcase her sharp wit and emotional depth. She tours nationally and often headlines major venues across New Jersey and New York.
Jim Gaffigan Tickets
Known for his iconic “Hot Pockets” bit and deadpan delivery, Jim Gaffigan is a comedy giant. With numerous Grammy-nominated specials and roles in both film and TV, he continues to tour extensively. His observational humor about food, parenting, and everyday life resonates with audiences of all ages.
Gabriel Iglesias Tickets
Affectionately known as “Fluffy,” Gabriel Iglesias blends sound effects, impersonations, and storytelling into one hilarious package. With specials like I’m Not Fat…I’m Fluffy and Stadium Fluffy, he’s headlined massive venues like Dodger Stadium. His performances are family-friendly yet wildly energetic.
Matt Rife Tickets
Matt Rife’s star has risen thanks to viral stand-up clips and quick-witted audience interaction. Starting on Wild ’N Out, he’s now headlining sold-out shows with a focus on dating, relationships, and social commentary. His youth, charisma, and improvisational style appeal to Gen Z and beyond.
TicketSmarter Discount for Somerset Patriots Fans
Patriots fans can now swing for the fences when it comes to entertainment. With TicketSmarter’s exclusive promo code PATRIOTS5, enjoy 5% off tickets to any of the shows listed in this guide. Whether you’re heading to see Hamilton on tour or laughing with Jim Gaffigan in New Brunswick, TicketSmarter makes it easier and more affordable to enjoy the arts.
Final Inning: Applause Beyond the Ballpark
From home runs to show tunes, Somerset and its surrounding regions offer entertainment that truly hits every note. Whether you're catching the harmonies of Wicked, the sass of Six, or the punchlines of Taylor Tomlinson, there’s always a seat waiting for you beyond the stadium gates. For Somerset Patriots fans, the show doesn’t end after nine innings—it’s just getting started under the spotlight.