The Best of Broadway at the Hollywood Bowl: A Night of Star-Studded Nostalgia and Musical Brilliance
Broadway's golden age nostalgia is a powerful societal balm, offering a glimpse of a more compassionate America. The Hollywood Bowl launched its 2026 season with "The Best of Broadway," a star-studded concert featuring Tony winners Lea Salonga, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Darren Criss, and Renée Elise Goldsberry. Halle Bailey, a rising R&B artist, also graced the stage, showcasing her musical theater talent.
Hosted by Billy Crystal, the gala raised $2.3 million for the L.A. Philharmonic's community programs. The concert, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary Broadway tunes, was a breezy start to the summer season. The audience, fueled by wine, eagerly showered the performers with standing ovations, culminating in a magical fireworks display set to Leonard Bernstein's "Candide" Overture.
While the concert showcased impressive vocal prowess, the lack of cohesive storytelling hindered the performers' ability to truly shine. Lea Salonga's versatility stood out, with standout performances from her Broadway repertoire. Renée Elise Goldsberry's rendition of "Satisfied" from "Hamilton" was a crowd-pleaser, but lacked the full ensemble effect. The lighting and choreography added a cinematic touch to the evening, enhancing the dreamlike quality of the show.
Brian Stokes Mitchell's rendition of "There's No Business Like Show Business" exuded charisma, while Darren Criss electrified the stage with "Something's Coming" from "West Side Story." The ensemble moments, like the finale performance of "Put on Your Sunday Clothes" from "Hello, Dolly!" showcased the performers' synergy and exuberance. However, the lack of collaborative opportunities throughout the concert left some longing for more cohesive moments.
The concert highlighted the importance of interpretation and collaboration in musical theater. While the performers showcased their individual talents admirably, the true magic of Broadway lies in the collective effort of a cohesive ensemble. Looking ahead, a concert version of a musical featuring these luminaries could offer a new opportunity for them to reach new heights together.