7 Unmissable Facts About The Revitalized Bergen Performing Arts Center (BergenPAC) In Englewood

The Bergen Performing Arts Center (BergenPAC) in Englewood, New Jersey, stands today as a premier cultural destination, now fully revitalized after a massive, multi-million dollar renovation project. As of December 2025, this historic venue is not only hosting a packed schedule of world-class performers but is also serving as an even stronger economic and educational anchor for the entire region. The completed upgrades have transformed the 1,367-seat theater into a state-of-the-art facility while preserving the architectural grandeur of its nearly century-old building.

The successful completion of the capital campaign and the subsequent reopening mark a new era for BergenPAC, solidifying its reputation as North Jersey’s cultural mecca. This deep dive explores the center’s rich history, the stunning details of its renovation, its profound educational impact, and the must-see events that define its current 2025 season.

BergenPAC: A Complete Biography and Profile

The Bergen Performing Arts Center, affectionately known as BergenPAC, is more than just a theater; it is a non-profit organization dedicated to making the performing arts and arts education accessible to its diverse community. Its roots trace back to the golden age of cinema, making its structure a true piece of local history.

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• Official Name: Bergen Performing Arts Center (BergenPAC)
• Location: 30 North Van Brunt Street, Englewood, New Jersey 07631
• Original Opening Date (as a Movie Theater): 1926
• Reopening Date (as a Performing Arts Center): 2003 (founded by Frank Huttle III)
• Structure Type: Non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
• Seating Capacity: 1,367 seats
• Core Mission: To make live performing arts and arts education accessible to its diverse community by building a creative home for artists and teachers
• Key Features: Main Theater, The Performing Arts School at BergenPAC, Educational Outreach Programs, Multiple Event Spaces
• Renovation Status (Current 2025): Multi-million dollar renovation complete (began March 2022)

The building’s legacy began in 1926 as a grand movie palace. After closing in 1973, it was later reopened in 1976 as the John Harms Center before being established as the Bergen Performing Arts Center in 2003. This history of transformation highlights the community’s long-standing commitment to the arts in Englewood, New Jersey.

The Multi-Million Dollar Renovation: A State-of-the-Art Transformation

The most significant and exciting update for BergenPAC fans is the completion of its ambitious capital campaign and renovation project. This multi-year effort, which included an $8.2 million facility overhaul, has successfully rejuvenated the outdated venue while carefully preserving its historic charm. The results have firmly established BergenPAC as a premier cultural mecca in Bergen County.

Key Renovation Upgrades and Features

The renovation was comprehensive, touching nearly every aspect of the main theater to enhance the patron and performer experience. These improvements were designed to bring the venue into the 21st century without losing its classic aesthetic.

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• Enhanced Acoustics: A completely improved sound system and theater acoustics were installed, ensuring crystal-clear audio for every performance, from rock concerts to Broadway tours.
• New Seating and Carpeting: The entire theater received new, comfortable seating and fresh carpeting, significantly upgrading the patron experience and aesthetic appeal.
• Modern Stage: A brand-new stage was constructed, providing world-renowned entertainers with a superior platform for their productions.
• LED Marquee: The exterior now features a modern LED marquee, providing a vibrant and dynamic welcome to the bustling Englewood community.
• Event Spaces: The facility now boasts elevated spaces suitable for exclusive events, such as meet-and-greets with talent, further enhancing its versatility.

The official reopening celebration was even graced by comedy legend Jay Leno, underscoring the high caliber of talent the renovated venue is designed to attract. The center now presents approximately 160 shows a year, capitalizing on its updated infrastructure.

The Performing Arts School: Cultivating New Jersey's Talent

BergenPAC’s commitment to arts education is central to its mission. The Performing Arts School is a vital component of the organization, offering year-round programs that reach students from infancy through adulthood. This educational outreach is arguably one of the center's most impactful contributions to the community.

The school provides a creative and nurturing home for aspiring artists of all backgrounds and abilities. Programs are diverse and comprehensive, ensuring access to quality instruction across various disciplines.

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Educational Programs and Notable Successes

The school’s curriculum is broad, focusing on holistic development through the arts:

• Core Disciplines: Classes are offered in music, dance, theater, and visual arts.
• Age Range: Programs cater to all ages, from 3 months old to adults.
• Outreach Initiatives: Beyond on-site classes, the school runs in-school residency programs and educational outreach to schools, libraries, and social service organizations, including specialized Hip Hop programs.
• Showcase Events: Annual events like the High School Musical Awards (announced for 2025) highlight the talent nurtured within the community.

Perhaps the most famous success story to emerge from the BergenPAC Performing Arts School is actress Rachel Zegler. Zegler, who won a Golden Globe Award for her lead role in a major motion picture, is a former student of the school, serving as a powerful testament to the quality and impact of BergenPAC’s arts education.

BergenPAC’s Massive Economic and Cultural Footprint

Beyond the stage and the classroom, BergenPAC plays a critical role in the local economy and cultural landscape of Englewood and the surrounding Bergen County area. It is widely recognized as an essential economic anchor.

According to a comprehensive Economic Impact Study, the Bergen Performing Arts Center generates a staggering $14 million in economic activity. This financial infusion supports local businesses, restaurants, and hotels, making the center a key driver of downtown Englewood's vitality. The renovation itself was a major investment, securing the center's future for decades to come.

LSI Keywords and Entities for Topical Authority

To fully understand the center's significance, one must consider the key entities and concepts that define its operation:

Cultural Entities: John Harms Center, Bergen County, Northern New Jersey, Van Brunt Street, PNC Bank (presenting sponsor). Performance Types: Live Performances, Comedy Shows, Broadway Tours, Rock Concerts, Dance Recitals, Jazz Ensembles. Educational Programs: In-School Residencies, Visual Arts Classes, Vocal Ensembles, High School Musical Awards.

The combination of a world-class venue, a dedicated arts school, and a powerful economic engine solidifies BergenPAC's status as a cornerstone of the New Jersey arts scene.

Upcoming Events and Notable Past Performers (2023-2025)

The 2025 schedule is already filling up with diverse, high-profile acts, continuing the tradition of bringing legendary and contemporary talent to Englewood. The center's ability to attract such a wide range of artists is a direct result of its state-of-the-art renovation and improved facilities.

A Glimpse at Recent and Upcoming Shows:

• The Happy Together Tour (2023): A major multi-act concert that showcased the beautifully renovated auditorium.
• Pat Benetar & Neil Giraldo (2023): A legendary rock act that performed as part of their Funtastic Tour.
• Grand Funk Railroad (2024): Celebrating their 50th Anniversary, demonstrating the venue’s appeal to classic rock audiences.
• Holiday Doo Wop (2025): Featuring acts like Jay Siegel and The Tokens, a staple of the holiday season schedule.
• A Christmas Carol (2025): A classic theatrical performance, demonstrating the venue’s commitment to theater alongside music.
• New Show Announcements (2025): BergenPAC continues to announce new shows throughout the year, keeping the calendar fresh and diverse.

Whether you are seeking a night of classic rock, a family-friendly theater production, or a chance to see a major comedy star, the Bergen Performing Arts Center remains the ultimate destination for live entertainment in Northern New Jersey.