The Hopewell Valley Arts Council may be best known for its annual Amazing Pumpkin Carve, but the organization is expanding its fall offerings this year with Halloween-themed shows for all ages at Hopewell Valley Stage.
“The Amazing Pumpkin Carve is a beloved fall tradition,” said Carol Lipson, executive director of the Hopewell Valley Arts Council.
“We’re thrilled to bring it back this October 8-11 at Needle Creek Farm Brewery. And Hopewell Valley Stage, our newest Arts Council initiative, lets us extend the fall fun all the way through the month.”
In addition to non-themed events – such as international party sensations Red Baraat and acclaimed singer-songwriter Rhett Miller of Old 97’s – the Hopewell Valley Stage October lineup includes Halloween offerings for both adults and families.
“One of our goals as an organization has always been to welcome art lovers of all ages,” said Maeli Goren-Wilson, Theater Manager.
“So, we’re really excited about our upcoming family Halloween concert with Sing Along With Sarah. The show will start after the Hopewell Borough Halloween Parade, which ends right across the street at the fire station. Families can easily pop on over to the theater to cap off the celebration!”
The Halloween lineup also includes the Stage’s first ever magic show, Hoodwinked: A Magical History of Deception with Tommy White. Professional magician Tommy White will perform sleight of hand while sharing historical information about the legacy of modern magic as he inherited it from the imaginative entertainers and inventors who came before him.
On Halloween itself, the Stage’s recurring kid’s show Aesop Romp will have a special themed performance at 10am. And at night, The Stage will host an atmospheric concert of Stevie’s Blue Lamp playing the music of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac.
“Costumes are encouraged at all our Halloween events,” Goren-Wilson added. “Let’s have fun with it!”
The Stage’s full lineup through the end of October:
Indie Album Release:
The Spider & The Stars: Album Release by All.Is.On.
Friday, Oct. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
An intimate live performance of the debut album by composer/vocalist Allison Spann and producer/musician Scott Li, childhood next-door neighbors turned beloved collaborators from Cranbury, NJ.
Performed by candlelight, this genre bending contemporary classical album fused with jazz and pop influences tells the story of a spider who spins her web between the stars.
Global Dance Music:
Red Baraat
Saturday, Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Red Baraat is a pioneering band from Brooklyn, New York. Conceived by dhol player Sunny Jain, the group has drawn worldwide praise for its singular sound, a merging of hard driving Punjabi rhythms with elements of hip-hop, jazz and raw punk energy.
The band’s 2017 NPR Tiny Desk Concert is touted as the #8 top performance of all time by New York Magazine and their 2025 album, Bhangra Rangeela (Sinj Records), confirms they are one of most vital bands out there.
Singer/Songwriter:
Rhett Miller of Old 97’s
Thursday, Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Rhett Miller is a revered singer-songwriter known for his more than three decades fronting the popular rock band Old 97’s, who were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the 2025 Americana Awards at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
After two independent releases, Miller and the 97’s signed to Elektra Records and released the critically acclaimed Too Far to Care. Their 13th studio album American Primitive was released on ATO Records in the spring of 2024.
Between projects with the Old 97’s, Miller has released eight solo albums, including his most recent A lifetime of riding by night in 2025.
Family Concert:
Sing Along With Sarah Family Halloween Concert
Sunday, Oct. 25 at 2 p.m.
Join us right after the Hopewell Borough Halloween Parade for a family-friendly concert of spooky singable songs at Hopewell Valley Stage! Costumes encouraged. Recommended ages 2+ (but all are welcome).
Sarah Johnson, the creator of Sing Along With Sarah, is a children’s singer, songwriter, and preschool music educator who brings the joy of music to young children (ages 0-5) and families throughout New Jersey.
Her interactive performances invite children to sing, dance, move, and play along with familiar favorites and original songs. With her warm personality and playful energy, Sarah creates musical experiences where everyone is encouraged to join in! @singalongwithsarah
Magic:
Hoodwinked: A Magical History of Deception With Tommy White
Friday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m.
Tommy White’s fascination with magic began with an appreciation for story. After reading about Harry Houndini, he was taken with the idea that any lock could be picked with a two-inch piece of wire.
By age 11, Tommy was picking every lock he could get his hands on. In Hoodwinked: A Magical History of Deception, Tommy warmly shares the legacy of modern magic as he inherited it from imaginative entertainers and inventors who came before him.
You’ll laugh, gasp, question what you thought you knew about reality, and gain a new appreciation for the art of magic. While young people are welcome to attend, please note that this is not a children’s magic show. Recommended for audiences 7+.
Kids’ Show:
Aesop Romp!
Saturday, Oct. 31 at 10 a.m.
Join us for a special Halloween-themed rendition of the HVStage kids’ show! An interactive musical storytelling experience, this splattering of fables joyfully introduces children to live theater. The show will change week-to-week so you and your little ones can enjoy it together again and again. Coffee and treats available for purchase. Come play at the gazebo park after the show!
Recommended for ages 4-12 (younger children are also welcome as long as their adults are prepared to attend to their needs). All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the performance.
Halloween Concert:
Stevie’s Blue Lamp plays Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac
Saturday, Oct. 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Stevie’s Blue Lamp celebrates the music and mystique of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac with a powerful, atmospheric Halloween performance.
Led by singer Jessica Star and backed by an exceptional band of seasoned musicians, the show brings beloved classics to life with soaring vocals, rich harmonies, and rock-and-roll energy- honoring the spirit of the original music while creating an experience that feels vibrant, immediate, and alive. Costumes are welcome!
