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The Show Must Go On

by Angela Daidone  |  Winter 2021

“The show must go on” is a phrase that originated in the 19th century but still rings true today. When the pandemic threatened to cancel performances, Ramapo students and staff refused to sit by. Innovative programs – performed under strict social distancing guidelines – delighted virtual audiences throughout the semester. Lisa Campbell, director of the Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts at Ramapo, said, “Early on I attended a webinar about how to pivot during these challenging times in the arts. That webinar caused Peter Campbell [Dean of Ramapo’s School of Contemporary Arts] and I to have a conversation which led to a staff retreat where we brainstormed ideas for programming. I credit my entire team with creating the programming we developed this year.”

As a result, the Berrie Center was able to offer unique performances and the response has been very positive, Campbell said.

Actors on stage in green light

Christy E. O’Connor, Leaning into the Unknown Act I

Actress rehearsing in the rehearsal room bring recorded by two cameramen

Marina Carriera, Leaning into the Unknown

Actress on stage looking into mirror

Christy E. O’Connor, Leaning into the Unknown Act I

Single dancer on stage

Nai-Ni Chen Dance, Leaning into the Unknown Act I

Screen shot of three actors performing

RCNJ Theater, The Diaries of Adam and Eve

Two dancers performing at the bandshell performance

Mignolo Dance, Leaning into the Unknown Act II

Percussionist playing drum on stage

Elizabeth Walsh, Made in Jersey

Two dancers in plastic bubbles performing at the bandshell

The Moving Architects, Leaning into the Unknown Act II

Group of performers walking toward the Berrie Center

RCNJ Theater, Baltimore

Actress being interviewed in the York Room

RCNJ Theater, Baltimore

Advertisement for “Fantini Futuro” with professor playing custom horn

Bringing Home Berrie Faculty Series, featuring Professor Ben Neill

Screen shot of four people discussing Bringing Home Berrie “Now and Then”

Bringing Home Berrie Faculty Series, featuring Professor Gilad Cohen and alumni

Screen shot with Dean Campbell and two students discussing Bringing Home Berrie

Bringing Home Berrie Faculty Series, featuring Dean Peter Campbell

Screen shot of several performers wearing masks with the names of unarmed people of color killed by police

RCNJ Theater, Baltimore

Actress poised in the York Room in the Birch Mansion on campus

RCNJ Theater, Baltimore

Photography and screenshots provided by Ramapo College Berrie Center faculty and staff