COUNT BASIE CENTER ANNOUNCES 16-MONTH LONG ‘CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION,’ MARKING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY IMPACT AND ENTERTAINMENT

Walk Of Fame installation, collaborations and community partnerships highlight historic venue’s century in Red Bank

(RED BANK | July 10, 2025) Ahead of its 100th birthday on November 11, 2026, the nonprofit Count Basie Center for the Arts has announced a 16-month long ‘Centennial Celebration,’ commemorating the organization’s century-long presence in Red Bank and impact throughout the Garden State.

At a kickoff event this evening, a dramatic vignette voiced by comedian Jon Stewart traced the landmark theater’s place in the region’s history, while Basie Center Chairperson Jeremy Grunin, President / CEO Adam Philipson, organizational leadership and others revealed key ingredients of the Centennial Celebration, including:

– The installation of the Count Basie Center Walk Of Fame, honoring area artists whose early performances on the historic Basie Center stage gave way to worldwide fame and recognition. The induction of the Walk’s first performing artists – William James “Count” Basie and a surprise performer to be revealed later this summer – will take place September 25.

Read more…