Journey, a world premier new musical, opened in Clifton two weeks ago and now is moving to Montclair. Performances will be at the Mount Hebron School, 173 Bellevue Ave, Montclair for the next two weekends. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 3pm (Apr 29, 30, May 1, 6, 7 & 8). Tickets are $15/$20 and can be reserved at 973.772.6998 or purchased at the door.

The music and lyrics are by Grammy-Award winning composer Michael Huseman of Montclair. The book and lyrics are by Kathleen Kellaigh of Clifton, the artistic director of Action Theater Conservatory. Journey features Montclair resident Darren Robertson, playing the character Paul. The show also features Joel Robertson of Clifton, appearing as Simon, through a special performance contract with Actor's Equity. Joel Robertson is a veteran of the Broadway casts of Jekyll & Hyde, Parade, Lis Miserables (for 9 years), original cast of Cats (6 years) and Fiddler on the Roof.

The authors have billed it as "an inspirational story of our times, providing a contemporary look at the power of love at work in our everyday lives. Audiences will see the dark and light sides of life as the characters deal with tragedies, controversial issues and daily challenges."

The show carries a real message of hope and encouragement even as the characters deal with real losses. The story line follows Paul, a formerly successful architect who has dealt with the loss of his job, his wife and, potentially, his son. He takes on a janitor's position at a local church and through the people he meets there, including Simon, his entire outlook on life is challenged.

One day, when Journey is on Broadway, you can say you "saw it in Montclair first!"

April 27, 2005