Upcoming Event: Rutherford's Got Talent

By Jennifer Ersalesi

Our Borough is so fortunate to have schools, community groups, and non-profit organizations that embrace, celebrate, and support the arts. The Rutherford Arts Council is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2019 and, according to its mission statement, is "dedicated to supporting and promoting arts and culture within the Rutherford, NJ community". The current Board members are Sarah Orlowicz, Jennifer Zenquis, Genesee Orlowicz, and Raul Barquet. This is Rutherford interviewed Sarah Orlowicz to learn more about the Rutherford Arts Council's upcoming event, Rutherford's Got Talent.

TIR: The Rutherford Arts Council has been busy this past year, organizing various programs and volunteering at numerous events. This Fall, the RAC is organizing its first “Rutherford’s Got Talent”, which is open to all community members and will be held on Saturday, 10/18 at 1:30 pm.  Why did you decide to plan this event?

Sarah Orlowicz: This idea has been floating around for a long time, and we finally decided to go for it! It’s going to be a fun way to showcase the diverse talents of our neighbors, while also bringing the community together in a positive way. We wanted to create an opportunity for all ages and backgrounds to participate, whether on stage or in the audience, and to celebrate the creativity, humor, and spirit that make Rutherford (and the surrounding towns) such a special place.

TIR: All types of talent are welcome, including music, dance, comedy, magic, poetry, etc.  How do individuals and groups apply?   When is the deadline to apply?

SO: Yes! We really would love to see a range of talent. Where are all of you jugglers and gymnasts? Anyone can apply online by clicking this link, and all of the rules are spelled out there as well. Please apply by September 18th!

TIR: This event will be held at the Karen Kaiser Parish House located at 32 Ridge Road, which is part of the First Presbyterian Church.  School of Rock of Carlstadt will provide sound and technical support.  Tell us more about these partnerships.  

SO: We are so thankful for the generosity of the First Presbyterian Church! The space is an old-school gymnasium/auditorium vibe, which we thought was perfect for this type of event. There’s also a room for the talent to relax and/or warm up before they go on. We have big plans to make it a fun event for all, and Reverend Justin Warner was so generous to offer us the space! We are excited to have some other ideas in the works with him, as well! 

We’ve partnered with the School of Rock before, as some of our members have collaborated with them on fundraisers for other non-profit events. Since we’re all part of the Chamber of Commerce, working together on this was an easy decision. Plus, they generously offered their equipment and expertise to help make this a top-notch event.

TIR: There are currently sponsorships available. How can individuals, groups, and businesses sponsor this event?

SO: Please reach out to us at rutherfordartscouncil@gmail.com or call our VP, Genesee @ 201-492-3474

TIR: How can community members get involved in the Rutherford Arts Council?

SO: We’re excited to be growing and would love to welcome new members to join us! This year, we’ve hosted a couple of fun workshops, organized an outdoor art show with live jazz, set up a tent at the Multicultural Festival, and will be part of Rutherford Day. We’re also working on bringing back the kids’ art banners along Park Avenue and, of course, our big Rutherford’s Got Talent event. Looking ahead, we have ideas for a mural project in town, and we’re hoping to find a dedicated space for monthly meetups—somewhere creatives can connect, collaborate, and work on their own art in a supportive community.