Mission:

The mission of Light Opera of New Jersey is to present treasures of musical theater and light opera with professional caliber performers, musicians and production teams.  We educate our performers by casting local talent of all ages alongside seasoned professionals; we educate our communities by bringing our shows to audiences who otherwise might not experience these art forms.  Through our work, we strive to keep this superb genre alive for future generations.

About Us:

Effective April 1, 2013, “Ridge Light Opera of New Jersey” became simply “Light Opera of New Jersey”.  In 1995 this group started as an outgrowth of Lauran Corson’s vocal arts studio (Corson Studios) in Basking Ridge, NJ; Lauran Corson remains their artistic director.  Shortly after they became “Ridge Light Opera of New Jersey” and were later incorporated in December 2003.  After 18 years of productions this seasoned group of performers is taking a step that they believe will give them stronger identity and recognition for the quality performing arts entity that they have become. 

Executive Producer, William Corson said “We want to do this as we are ready to take the next step, having a real ‘season’ to offer to the public. We are poised to make several adjustments now including putting together a new modern website which will be out soon. Furthermore we are very excited about the construction of a new theater at Fellowship Senior Living, here in Basking Ridge, where we hope to be performing very soon”.

Light Opera of New Jersey (LONJ) also now has a new outreach group called “Savoy Faire” which already has several bookings for this month. This group provides a 45 minute presentation of Gilbert and Sullivan favorites, designed for schools, retirement communities and other public organizations.  LONJ is also collaborating with orchestras and choral groups doing opera and operetta works with them.