This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Paper Mill Playhouse: An N.J. Staple Worth Revisiting

You've probably been there—but if not, you're missing out.

New Jersey prides itself on its varied arts programs and outlets. One of the most famed of these is the , located on 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn.

The playhouse, an actual paper mill when it was built in 1795, opened for its current usage in 1938.

The productions found at the theater span all age brackets, and many state residents will tell you that their first school trip experiences were to Paper Mill.

Find out what's happening in Basking Ridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Paper Mill Playhouse produces our theater from the ground up," playhouse press relations manager Shayne Miller said. "This sets us apart from the many presenting houses in the state. Furthermore, Paper Mill Playhouse is the only professional theater in the state that produces a season of musicals. Our beautiful, brook-side campus offers a serene excursion for any family. Our campus, in the heart of Downtown Millburn offers an array of cafes, shops and restaurants for a perfect evening or afternoon out."

Upcoming productions include a stage adaptation of the Disney musical "Newsies" and a holiday favorite, an adaptation of Irving Berlin’s "White Christmas." Alongside the playhouse's New Voices presentations and short-run productions and presentations, Paper Mill Playhouse has no shortage of shows to enthrall families. That's why we've chosen it for this installment of Day Tripper, a weekly look at destinations that are out of town, but in reach, and worth the trip.

Find out what's happening in Basking Ridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

DAY TRIPPER DIGEST

Estimated Travel Time: 27 Minutes

Why it’s Worth the Trip: Paper Mill Playhouse is easily within reach. It's an affordably priced, professional theater with a wide range of presentations. If you are looking to satisfy your love of live productions without going broke, Paper Mill is a perfect solution. Even better, it's a staple of New Jersey’s culture and history.

How to Get There from Here.

You’ll Probably Get Hungry:  A short ride onto Main St. will bring you within reach of , , and . If you’re being budget-conscious, you can grab a frappucino at or lunch at the .

While You’re in the Area:  Why not do some shopping while you’re in town? There are plenty of boutiques (, and among them). You might want to try out shops like ,  and , too. A short ride will bring you to for a wider variety (and back-to-school shopping, but don’t let the kids know). The historic and Bird Sanctuary is also in Short Hills. This destination was established in 1923 and highlights 45 species of trees, including 275-year-old tulip trees, rare ferns, more than 150 species of wildflowers, and 100 species of birds.

Miller said that he believed the theater was good not only for the area, but for New Jersey arts in general.

“Paper Mill Playhouse was named The State Theater of New Jersey by Gov. (William T.) Cahill in 1976,” Miller said. “Everyone in New Jersey has a Paper Mill Playhouse story. Whether you visited the campus as a child, attended a production with your family or participated in one of our many arts education programs, Paper Mill Playhouse has touched so many lives in the State of New Jersey.” 

“Paper Mill Playhouse arts education programs reach over 50,000 students each year in all 21 counties of the state,” Miller said of the theater’s efforts beyond just mounting productions. “Our outreach and access programs make it possible for everyone, regardless of disability, to enjoy live theater with dignity and independence.” 

Miller’s connection to Paper Mill Playhouse started early.

"I began (working) at Paper Mill Playhouse six years ago. I attended productions at Paper Mill Playhouse since I was a child," Miller said. "My educational background was in theater and my work experience was in press and public relations (in politics). The position at Paper Mill Playhouse was a way for me to bring both my work experience and my educational experience, along with my passion for the arts to this beloved not-for-profit arts organization.” 

Looking to learn more about Paper Mill? Check out Millburn-Short Hills Patch's ongoing coverage of the theater and its activities.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?