MANALAPAN, NJ - The annual Manalapan Under the Stars concert and event features Gary Puckett & The Union Gap Band on Saturday, June 11^th, 8:00 pm at the Manalapan Recreation Center. This free concert is brought to you by the Manalapan Township Heritage Committee.  In the event of rain the performance will be held indoors at the Manalapan High School.

The Manalapan Arts Council’s Summer Concert Series features Tommy Mara and The Crests with an Antique and Specialty Car Show on Wednesday, July 20 at 7:00 pm. Real Diamond, The Premier Neil Diamond Tribute Band, performs on Wednesday, August 24 at 8:00 pm. Both live concerts will be held at the Manalapan Township Recreation Center, Manalapan and are free to the public.

Gary Puckett & The Union Gap Band is one of the quintessential sounds of the 1960’s with hits including “Young Girl,” “Woman Woman,” “Lady Willpower,” “Over You,” and so many more. “In 1968 Gary Puckett & The Union Gap Band had six consecutive gold records and sold more records than any other recording act…including the Beatles,” according to the official Gary Puckett website. Gary Puckett & The Union Gap Band has performed in the White House and for Royalty with their music reaching audiences in the U.S. and Europe. Gary Puckett & The Union Gap Band disbanded in 1971 but Gary Puckett continued to release new collections of the group’s music with the latest release in 2002. Manalapan residents are in for a musical treat when this group hits the stage. 

The Crests, the Doo Wop group known for their 1958 hit record “Sixteen Candles,” now with lead singer Tommy Mara, are going to rock the stage with their heart-felt harmonies and soulful ballads. Tommy Mara is a veteran vocalist and performer whose talent has allowed him to work across musical genres.  With The Crests, Tommy Mara remains true to the original sound of the group bringing childhood memories back to the main stage for all to enjoy.

This event also features a Classic and Specialty Car Show. The Manalapan Arts Council is now accepting registrations for the car show. All registered car owners will receive a plaque and will be automatically entered to win one of three special trophies awarded for  Best in Show and more. Register by calling 732-446-8303, Susan Lapkin.

Real Diamond, The Premier Neil Diamond Tribute Band will perform live Wednesday, August 24 at 8:00 pm – 10:30 pm, at the Manalapan Township Recreation Center, Manalapan.  The Real Diamond is dedicated to providing audiences with the spirit, sound and look of Neil Diamond and they do so with reverence to their idol. The group performs “note-for-note renditions of all Neil Diamond’s greatest hits including: Cherry Cherry, Holly Holy, Kentucky Woman, Sweet Caroline” and many, many more of everyone’s favorite hits, according to their website.  The sheer number of musicians is impressive with the Real Diamond group – ten in all and each with impressive musical academic credentials.  It is evident from the performers education and experience that they are true musicians whose passion runs deep and has filled their lives. They are certain to provide the audience an experience to remember.

For questions and further details please contact Susan Lapkin, Manalapan Township Administration at 732-446-8303.