With their unmissable blend of Broadway razzle-dazzle and cabaret charm, Jim Caruso’s Cast Party with Billy Stritch will light up the stage at Owens Auditorium at Bradshaw Performing Arts Center on Friday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m.
The third attraction in BPAC’s 2024-25 Mainstage Series, this open mic/variety show hybrid is a vibrant, impromptu inside-showbiz salon where talent shines under the spotlight.
“Think American Idol meets The Tonight Show, but with a martini in hand,” says Jim Caruso, the dapper and quick-witted host who has shepherded this phenomenon to iconic status since its inception in 2003 at New York’s Birdland. Alongside him is the illustrious Billy Stritch, a Grammy-winning pianist, songwriter, and arranger whose keyboard wizardry has elevated the show to legendary heights.
A Star-Studded Tradition
Since its debut in 2003, Cast Party has become a hallowed gathering for performers and fans alike. From Broadway legends to cabaret newcomers, the show thrives on spontaneity and sheer talent.
“We’ve seen everyone from Tony winners to tourists fresh off the bus,” Caruso says with a grin. “And that’s the magic—it’s unpredictable, joyous, and always unforgettable.”
The Wall Street Journal dubbed it “the gold standard of open mic nights,” a description well-earned by the caliber of performers and the magnetic chemistry between Caruso and Stritch. Their onstage banter is as much a highlight as the performances, blending urbane wit with a palpable love for the arts.
Meet the Masters
Jim Caruso, a Broadway veteran who performed alongside Liza Minnelli in the Tony-winning Liza’s at the Palace!, is no stranger to the spotlight. His extensive resume includes hosting high-profile events, a celebrated nightclub career, and even a successful podcast.
“It’s all about connection,” Caruso says. “Every performer has a story, a spark—and Cast Party is where they get to share it.”
Billy Stritch, meanwhile, is a musical powerhouse. Known for his collaborations with icons like Liza Minnelli and Tony Bennett, Stritch has earned accolades as a solo artist and as a musical director. His Grammy-winning composition “Does He Love You,” performed by Reba McEntire and Linda Davis, remains a beloved classic.
“Music is storytelling,” Stritch notes. “At Cast Party, every note tells a tale.”
The Open Mic Experience
For attendees, Cast Party isn’t just a show—it’s an invitation. The audience is encouraged to take the stage, bringing sheet music (in the correct key), a dream, and a touch of courage. From vocal and instrumental jazz standards to guitarists to Broadway belters, the night celebrates a cornucopia of talent and spirit.
“We’ve had everything from a 12-year-old violin prodigy to seasoned Broadway stars belting Gershwin,” Caruso recalls. “Every act is a gem.”
Performers should come prepared to perform live (no background tracks; Stritch provides live piano accompaniment)—and upbeat.
“Leave the weepy ballads at home unless you’re channeling Edith Piaf,” Caruso jokes. “This is a party, after all!”
The Legacy and Beyond
Cast Party has enjoyed a storied history, with special editions held in iconic venues from London to Las Vegas and aboard the Dave Koz Jazz Cruise. Its accolades include BroadwayWorld Awards, MAC Awards, and a proclamation from New York City Mayor Eric Adams marking July 24 as “Jim Caruso’s Cast Party Day.”
“We’re thrilled to bring this celebration of talent and community to the Sandhills area,” Stritch says. “It’s a night where stars are born and memories are made.”
Get Your Tickets
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the party! Tickets for Jim Caruso’s Cast Party with Billy Stritch at BPAC are available now. Whether you’re a performer ready to dazzle or a fan eager to soak up the spectacle, this is an evening you won’t want to miss.
As Caruso puts it: “Come sing, schmooze, and celebrate the magic of live performance. We’ll see you there!”
A Cultural Gem of the Sandhills
Dedicated in 2019, Bradshaw Performing Arts Center (BPAC), nestled within the picturesque campus of Sandhills Community College, remains the Sandhills area’s premier cultural hub. BPAC draws over 80,000 visitors annually to the charming resort town of Pinehurst, North Carolina.
BPAC boasts five distinct venues—three indoor and two outdoor—that collectively host nearly 200 events each year. From professional music, theater, and dance performances to comedy acts, lectures, and visual art exhibits, BPAC offers a remarkable array of entertainment options for all ages and tastes, making it an essential destination for locals and visitors alike. Learn more about BPAC at www.SandhillsBPAC.com.
Tickets and Information
Tickets for Jim Caruso’s Cast Party with Billy Stritch are now available at TicketMeSandhills.com.
Concessions: Wine, beer, soda, and snacks are available. All concessions purchases may be enjoyed in the theater; outside food and drinks are not permitted.
Reserved Seating: Choose your seat location from four price points at purchase.
Parking and Timing:
Free Parking: Ample parking is available in front of the theater and throughout the Sandhills Community College campus.
Lobby Doors and Box Office: Open one hour before showtime.
Theater Doors: Open approximately 30 minutes before showtime.
Join BPAC for an unforgettable evening in Moore County’s beloved entertainment and events complex!
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