Our Spring Festival this year is 'The Magic of Merlin'

Experience the enchantment of Riddlesbrood’s unforgettable family-friendly festivals! This spring, we’re back at Historic Smithville with an all-new, action-packed lineup! Mark your calendars for May 24th and 25th and experience The Magic of Merlin—a thrilling FREE outdoor production. Don’t miss this unforgettable weekend of entertainment for the whole family!

A touring theater troupe performing an interactive show at an NJ Festival.
Memorial Day Weekend 2025!*

Saturday, May 24th, at 1 PM and 5 PM and Sunday, May 25th, at 1 PM.

Check out the Map to the left to see where all the fun is!!!

[615 E Moss Mill Rd, Absecon, NJ 08201]

 

The cast of the shows include actors from the Riddlesbrood Touring Theatre Company troupe along with many children of all ages from the local community.

The historic Towne of Smithville will be bustling with activity during the festival. Its 60 charming specialty shops, festival vendors, a Kidz Zone, the award-winning historic Smithville Inn restaurant and 3 other restaurants within the village will all be open to visit and enjoy before, during intermissions or after the shows. For added entertainment, The Smithville Train and The Smithville Carousel, two timeless attractions that evoke romance, adventure and playful fun, will also be open and running both days for children and adults to ride and share an unforgettable experience. 

*Event is rain or shine

What is the Show this year?

"Riddlesbrood's The Magic of Merlin" is a mystical outdoor spectacle where enchantment takes center stage. This free-to-the-public show is a spellbinding adaptation of the tale of Harken, as originally written by Ryan Long, woven together with Riddlesbrood's signature comic flair. It's not just a play; it's a fantastical journey into the world of Merlin, reimagined with a delightful, family-friendly twist. As the curtain rises, audiences are whisked away to a land of magic and mystery, where the legendary sorcerer Merlin guides a cast of unforgettable characters through their adventures.

Adding to the excitement, the show features a choose-your-own-adventure style, where the audience uses their cell phones to decide how the brave heroes' journey unfolds! The story changes with every performance, making it a unique experience each time. Stay for a second showing to play a different path! The show's charm is amplified by its dazzling costumes and stunning set pieces. Each detail is a feast for the eyes, transforming the outdoor stage into a vibrant tapestry of magic and creativity. Picture wizards who conjure laughter, knights who jest, and mythical creatures brought to life—all under the endless expanse of the open sky. In this three-act adventure, there's more than just the story to enjoy. Between the acts, explore the bustling festival atmosphere filled with unique vendors, tantalizing treats, and one-of-a-kind treasures. It's the perfect chance to stretch your legs, grab a snack, and soak in the lively spirit of the event before diving back into Merlin's mesmerizing world.

 

"Riddlesbrood's The Magic of Merlin" is more than a show; it's an experience. It's where laughter, wonder, and the power of storytelling merge to create an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Come, step into the magic, and let every moment become a cherished memory.

A lively scene from an NJ Festival, featuring an outdoor stage and a crowd enjoying the show.
A vibrant NJ Festival with colorful decorations and an engaging performance taking place.
A professional touring performance at an NJ Festival, captivating the audience.
Disclaimer!

Please note that this outdoor event is subject to weather conditions. Performances may be paused or canceled in the case of rain or lightning for safety reasons. Attendees are advised to consider these factors and prepare accordingly. Seating will not be provided at the venue. Guests are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs to ensure their comfort during the event. While admission to the event is free of charge, parking availability is on a first-come, first-served basis and is complimentary if space permits. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking. The event is structured in three acts with 30-minute intermissions, allowing guests time to explore and shop at the vendor stalls. Public restrooms will be available for use by attendees. By attending this event, guests acknowledge and accept the risks associated with outdoor events, including weather conditions and seating arrangements. The organizers are not liable for any personal discomfort or inconvenience related to these factors.

A dynamic festival scene in NJ with performers engaging the audience
A festival crowd enjoying a thrilling mainstage performance at an NJ Festival.