Brook Arts Center

About

From the time of its inception, the Brook Theater has been a intricate part of the entertainment and social life for Bound Brook and central New Jersey. Now known as the Brook Arts Center, the theater which was built by local developer Alexander Morecraft, opened its door on January 9, 1927, as a vaudeville house. The theater was considered an architectural masterpiece. The foyer is adorned with marble walls, stained glass Tiffany chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and wall sconces illuminated the gold-framed billboard arches and beveled mirrors accents. Guests were welcomed into the Grand Lobby by a crimson red carpet and a Louis XIV design walls of marble leading to the luxurious lounge, which accommodated period chairs, marble fireplaces, and an Art Nouveau decorative water fountain. The decorative pilasters in the auditorium exhibit a Moresque influence, the Greek masonry proscenium arch, the egg and dart decorative motif of cornice plasterwork, and the whispering dome and chandeliers added to its elegance. The thirteen hundred and twelve seats were upholstered in soft blue cushioned leather to complement the ocean blue stage curtain. Located in the orchestra pit was a pipe organ, a Wurlitzer, one of the finest of its time. The old-world charm and high style attracted patrons who looked to experience the luxury and grandeur the Brook offered. In the past 93 years, the Brook continues to be a contributing component to the community and region. Throughout the various changes over the years, both to its interior appearance and management, the theater, which is still in need of rehabilitation, still stands structurally intact, with most of its original features and offering its historical significance as a cultural lightning rod for artists. To date, the Historic Brook Theater is the only existing vaudeville theater remaining in Somerset County, and one of eight in New Jersey was listed in the National Register of Historic Places on May 5, 2014. While there is still work to be done to bring the theater back to its former splendor, it is a fully operating multi-use 600 seats venue, providing for plays,concerts, dance, comedians, classic and silent films, and summer theater programs. For rental opportunities for photo and film shots, fundraising events, corporate events, and other functions, please contact us at www.brookarts.org