Here are some of the ways we move outside of the theatre to provide our vibrant community with fun and exciting programming and events:
Our Arts in the Community program offers free events throughout the community, increasing access to the arts locally to all and engaging culturally diverse artists.
MPAC’s Arts in Community initiative is based on the best practices of Creative Placemaking. With our Arts in the Community program, we expand our commitment to providing creative arts programming to spaces outside of the Theater.
Free Summertime Community Events
MPAC brings the performing arts beyond our walls and into the community! Through free concerts, dance parties and arts participation events, MPAC’s Arts in the community programs engage the greater Morristown community in their neighborhoods.
Theatre of Light
The universal symbol of light illuminates the rich cultural diversity of our community when Mayo Performing Arts Center transforms the Vail Mansion Plaza into a “Theater of Light,” an annual community event that takes place late fall/early Winter.
Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)
Date: November 1, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm EST
Welcome to Morristown’s Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration! This two-day event will feature ofrendas (traditional altars) from many of Morristown’s local businesses. Join this town-wide celebration and tour the ofrendas, experience food specials, movies, crafts, and family activities throughout our community.
On Saturday, November 1, MPAC will display a collective ofrenda at Pioneer Park in Headquarters Plaza from 12 pm to 7 pm. We invite the Morristown community to bring a photo, a token, or a memento to our altar in honor of our dearly departed. MPAC’s celebration will culminate that evening with a live mariachi concert from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM dedicated to the ofrenda.
Whether you’re familiar with Día de Muertos or experiencing it for the first time, we welcome you to take part in this meaningful tradition. Follow our ofrenda map with your family, bring your stories, and share in our spirit of remembrance. Our community altar is our heartfelt way of saying “you are remembered; you are loved.” Let’s come together to honor those who came before us—and celebrate the beauty of life.
Sponsors
Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors
Free Summer Event: MPAC Music Student of the Month Recital
Morris County middle and high school musicians honored as MPAC Music Students of the Month throughout the past season showcase their talents in this year-end recital. The Music Student of the Month program is sponsored by the Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation
Free Summer Event: Bollywood Dance Party with DJ Arjun
DJ Arjun returns to spin Bollywood and Top 40 dance music mix and get everyone moving! B2Z Dance School returns to bring the rhythm of Bollywood moves and Mehndikalogie will provide intricate designs of henna art.
Free Summer Event: Salsa at Sunset
MPAC’s annual salsa night spices up the town with a night of Latin rhythms, great dancing and much more. Instructors will be on hand to help you learn all of the steps!
Free Summer Event: Country Line Dancing with Paul Stoddard
Back by popular demand! It’s a honky-tonk evening of country line dancing with DJ and dance instructor Paul Stoddard, who will have you swinging to the sounds of classic and contemporary country music, whether you’re an experienced line dancer or novice!
Free Summer Event: Joshua Van Ness
Singer songwriter Joshua Van Ness is both the working man’s musician and a true indie spirit whose music echoes the classics from decades ago merged with today’s sounds. Featuring Morristown Onstage performer Garret Lash.
Free Summer Event: Wilma
A fun, female-fronted band showcasing delightful harmonies and unique instrumentation, Wilma interprets songs across many genres including modern pop, classic rock, folk, indie gems, and quirky deep cuts.
