If you are a fan of soulful music and want to experience a vibrant and inspiring celebration of creativity, talent and the joy of improvisation, then The Ultimate Jazz and R&B Jam – Improvising Life is for you!

Brought to you by Gregory Burrus Productions, this open mic event features the perfect blend of live music, spontaneous jamming and insightful performances by the NJ Mental Health Players. Witness the magic as talented musicians take the stage, creating melodies on the spot while the NJ Mental Health Players deliver impactful scenes that explore mental health awareness.

Why jazz and mental health? Just as in jazz, where improvisation is key, dealing with life’s uncertainties requires adaptability and creativity. Discover how both worlds converge in this exploration of rhythm, ensemble playing and the art of living.

Gregory Burrus is a multi-talented professional who wears many hats and has produced hundreds of events and jams across the greater NJ and NY region. He is also deeply involved in community development through the arts, hosting workshops and events aimed at enriching the cultural fabric of his community.

The NJ Mental Health Players is a community education collective of actors who utilize improvisation, role-play and scripted scenarios, combining performance art and advocacy to increase awareness, decrease stigma and break the silence often associated with mental health.

* NTS Official Selections: Gregory Burrus Productions

This category denotes local independent artists, non-profits, small businesses and faith-based organizations that applied and won a competitive grant to perform on showcase stages located in each city or to curate and produce an event for the festival.