Nestled in the heart of a city known for its music and arts, the Asbury Park Theater Company (APTC), a non-profit organization, is bringing the magic of live theater to the Jersey Shore.
The company was founded in 2019 by a passionate group of local theater professionals and theater goers.
From its earliest productions, APTC set a high bar, presenting acclaimed works like Green Day’s "American Idiot," "Million Dollar Quartet," and "Always… Patsy Cline" to sold-out audiences. The company’s shows are known for their high production values, diverse casting, and innovative staging, often rivaling professional regional theaters far beyond the Jersey Shore.
Since then, APTC has become a vibrant cultural force that blends powerful, invigorating performances with transformative theater arts education. The company delivered productions ranging from reimagined classics to bold new works. Every APTC production is designed to spark conversation, celebrate diversity and transport audiences into another world.
APTC’s commitment extends far beyond the stage. Recognizing the profound impact of arts education, the company launched its School of Dramatic Arts, (SODA) offering programs in
theater, voice, and movement. Led by seasoned teaching artists who have worked on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and regional stages, the school serves both adults and youth from across the community.
For many students, especially undersourced youth, APTC provides their first real opportunity to experience theater from the inside out. Scholarships supported by grants help ensure that cost is never a barrier. During the summer of 2025, APTC offered classes in sketch comedy and improvisation, musical theater intensives, and full-scale musical productions for students in grades 7–12. The students put on a spectacular show, Disney’s The Lion King Jr. “We see students walk in shy and unsure, and walk out ready to command a stage,” shares William Whitefield. “That transformation is what makes this work so meaningful.
APTC is intentional about producing works that resonate with the diverse cultural fabric of Asbury Park. From the start, the company has chosen plays and musicals that are often lesser known but rich in meaningful stories that invite reflection and conversation. This commitment to inclusivity is reflected not only on stage, but in the company’s broader mission to make theater
accessible, affordable, and relevant to everyone.
Local collaboration is central to that mission. APTC partners with area schools, including those in Asbury Park and Neptune Township, to recruit students and offer them meaningful arts
experiences. The company has also developed a grassroots partnership with the Jersey Shore Arts Center, Bell Theater at Bell Works and Axelrod Performing Arts Center, expanding its reach and impact.
In 2025, acclaimed musician, producer, and director Anthony D’Amato stepped into the role of Producing Artistic Director. His vision is rooted in both reverence for Asbury Park’s creative legacy and a bold commitment to its future. Outgoing Producing Artistic Director William Whitefield, who helped co-found the company in 2019, echoes that optimism: “After several years of commitment to the community, my time has come to step down. I’m excited to remain on the board and support my friend Anthony, who we all know will bring this company to the next level.”
“Asbury Park is so much more than just its location,” D’Amato said. “It’s a spirit, it’s a brand, it’s an energy. While there is currently no functioning proscenium theater stage in town, we’ve always had a unique, creative community that’s been acknowledged around the world. We must continue to embrace and inspire those talents, collaborate with those in our county and state, and keep Asbury Park as a recognizable sanctuary for art and artists of all ages and backgrounds.”
D’Amato is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures on the Jersey Shore arts scene, with a national career as a performer, director, and producer. Under his guidance, APTC will launch an energized 2026 season.
“Our board has tremendous confidence in Anthony and his established commitment to the arts community,” says APTC President and co-founder Robert W. Allison. “We look forward to growing our company together.”
D’Amato has built a devoted following as Remember Jones, a powerhouse soul/pop singer-songwriter, bandleader, and showman whose performances are part concert, part theatrical spectacle.
His high-energy, show-band productions have sold out every major venue on the Jersey Shore and taken him to packed clubs and theaters across the country. Along the way, he’s shared the stage with legends including Bruce Springsteen, Dionne Warwick and Darlene Love.
Though he’s made his mark on stages nationwide, D’Amato’s heart has never left Monmouth County. He credits local theater companies for nurturing his passion from a young age.
Offstage, D’Amato’s impact on the community is just as powerful. A passionate philanthropist, he has supported a wide range of organizations including Light of Day, Lunch Break, Fulfill Food Bank, Monmouth Arts, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, he launched a weekly livestream series that highlighted nonprofits in need including Move For Hunger, The Loveland Foundation, and GetUsPPE ultimately raising nearly $25,000 through the support of his fanbase. He continues his mission to uplift others through art and action as a member of the Executive Board of the Light
of Day Foundation.
D’Amato has emerged as a source of inspiration for many in the wellness space. Having lost over 200 pounds through dedicated diet and exercise and successfully maintaining that transformation for nearly 15 years he has cultivated a strong, supportive wellness community. Today, he continues to coach, write, and speak publicly, offering guidance and motivation to others on their own health journeys.
Beyond the upcoming productions, D’Amato and the board are collaborating on a new strategic plan, refreshed branding, and expanded programming for both audiences and emerging artists. APTC’s short term goal is to establish a stronger footprint for theater arts in the region. Long term, the company is working toward securing a permanent performance home- a space where high quality theater and innovative educational programs can thrive year round.
The Asbury Park Theater Company has announced its 2025 annual fundraising gala. This spectacular evening, which is slated for December 13 at the Jersey Shore Arts Center, will celebrate the vibrant arts community of Asbury Park, bringing together local stars and beloved Asbury Park favorites for an unforgettable night of entertainment. Guests will be treated to holiday classics and more, performed live with a sensational 17 piece big band.
Following the resounding success of last year’s sold-out gala, this year’s event promises to be even more dazzling. Proceeds will directly support APTC’s mission to produce world-class theater, nurture local talent, and expand arts education programming throughout the community.
“Our annual gala has become a joyful tradition,” says Jeanne Montano Giannetta board member. “It’s a chance to celebrate the season, showcase our extraordinary local artists, and raise vital funds to support our work year-round.” Community members are encouraged to mark their calendars now and stay tuned for further details.
The Asbury Park Theater Company is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to producing bold, high-quality theatrical productions and providing educational opportunities that inspire, engage, and enrich the community.
For more information, visit asburyparktheatercompany.org or email
info@asburyparktheatercompany.org
“Asbury Park is so much more than just its location. It’s a spirit, it’s a brand, it’s an energy." Anthony D'Amato
The Asbury Park Arts Community is on the rise courtesy of the Asbury Park Theater Company. The non-profit organization is bringing quality productions to the stage. Those shows are designed to spark conversation, celebrate diversity and transport audiences into another world.
Asbury Park already has a terrific music community, lovely beaches and an amazing restaurant district. But APTC is adding a much needed dimension to a burgeoning, scene which is provocative and compelling.