The Union County Performing Arts Center’s Mainstage is housed in the restored “Rahway Theatre” – which has resided in Downtown Rahway since 1928. This historic landmark has become the centerpiece of the recently established arts district of Rahway, New Jersey, which has played a vital role in the revitalization and cultural renaissance of the community.

The magic of this venue lies in the heart of the facility; a restored vaudeville theater and silent movie palace that has stood the test of time and an ever-changing world around it. Like many of its fellow historic sites and theaters, it remains a monument to an era past while still contributing to the community’s future.

One of the most astounding pieces of the theater is its original Wurlitzer organ. This grand instrument was the foundation of the preservation effort in which the arts center emerged from. Since the 1960s (when it was first restored), the organ was played regularly – and frequently recorded on by notable organists and practicing volunteers at the center. The piece’s enormous sound compared against its small size has coined the moniker “Biggest Little Wurlitzer” amongst its peers.

The Mainstage is listed in both state and national registers of historic sites, and is now operating as a multipurpose venue for the performing arts. It is the largest center for the performing arts in Union County.

The facility is run by a non-profit organization staffed by professional, hard-working employees and is supported by an outstanding volunteer corps and its local community of residents.