The Actors Studio of New Jersey Awarded $382,896 Grant from NJEDA to Support Arts-Led Community Revitalization
Dunellen, NJ — The Actors Studio of New Jersey (ASNJ) has been awarded $382,896 by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) through Phase II of the Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program, a statewide initiative designed to strengthen communities through arts-based placemaking and cultural investment.
The grant is part of a $15 million allocation awarded to 39 organizations across New Jersey, marking the first A.R.T. funding announcement since the program was expanded beyond its original pilot cities of Newark and Atlantic City to include 31 municipalities statewide. Funded through the American Rescue Plan (ARP), A.R.T. Phase II supports nonprofit arts and cultural organizations whose work activates public spaces, drives foot traffic, supports small businesses, and strengthens local economic resiliency in communities most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The A.R.T. program delivers essential grant funding to local arts and cultural organizations for initiatives that boost foot traffic, support small business growth, and strengthen the economic resiliency of municipalities most impacted by the pandemic,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is continuing to make significant investments in our downtowns and main streets. These A.R.T. awards will help communities across the state activate public spaces, host events, and advance arts-based initiatives that promote long-term growth and vibrancy.”
A.R.T. Phase II aims to catalyze community placemaking efforts by leveraging New Jersey’s arts and cultural sector as a creative force for change, supporting nonprofit organizations focused on public art installations and arts-driven initiatives that foster long-term community impact.
“Today marks a major milestone in the NJEDA’s mission to bolster the arts and culture sector, which boasts a rich legacy in New Jersey and serves as an economic powerhouse for local communities across the state,” said Tai Cooper, NJEDA Chief Community Development Officer. “The funding announced today continues Governor Murphy’s efforts to leverage the sector as a creative force for change, supporting a range of nonprofit organizations that are revitalizing their communities through the holistic impact of the arts.”
Michael Restaino, Founder and Artistic Director of The Actors Studio of New Jersey, emphasized the significance of the award for both the organization and the community it serves:
“As highlighted by the NJEDA, this grant represents a historic investment in New Jersey’s arts and cultural sector. From my earliest concept of The Actors Studio of New Jersey to celebrating our first full year of theatrical programming, our vision has always been rooted in community—cultivating audiences, nurturing talent, and building a sustainable network of artistic and civic support.
The NJEDA’s mission to catalyze community placemaking by leveraging the arts as a force for change directly mirrors our own. Our work is driven by a commitment to innovative modes of storytelling that are bold, inclusive, and boundless in their reach. We are proud to serve as the resident theater company of the historic Dunellen Theatre and to play a role in its ongoing revitalization, ensuring it continues to be a cultural anchor for generations to come.”
The Dunellen Theatre, a historic landmark in the borough of Dunellen, first opened in May 1922 as Hosford’s Theatre, a 500-seat venue that showcased vaudeville and motion pictures. More than a century later, the theatre continues to entertain audiences and serve as a cornerstone of the community. ASNJ is honored to steward this legacy through programming and community-centered initiatives that honor the theatre’s past while advancing its future.
Founded to establish a professional theatrical home in New Jersey, The Actors Studio of New Jersey is dedicated to producing high-quality, innovative performances while expanding access to the arts through education, outreach, and community engagement. Past productions and programming have reflected ASNJ’s commitment to bold storytelling, artist-driven collaboration, and creating meaningful theatrical experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.
Looking ahead, ASNJ will use A.R.T. funding to support its 2026 season at the Dunellen Theatre, further expanding programming and deepening its role as a cultural and economic catalyst in the region.
“My team and I are very thankful for this opportunity,” Restaino added. “As we get ready to announce our 2026 season, we remain committed to strong storytelling, high-quality work, and building real connections with our community—helping The Actors Studio of New Jersey continue to grow as a home for creative work across the state. We also want to thank Mayor Jason Cilento and his office for their continued support in bringing the arts to Dunellen.”
For more information about The Actors Studio of New Jersey and upcoming programming, please visit www.actorsstudionj.org or follow ASNJ on social media.
