The Hollywood Bowl’s 2026 season commenced with a dazzling opening night that celebrated the best of Broadway. Under the star-studded Los Angeles sky, the iconic venue transformed into a stage for some of the most celebrated names in musical theater. The evening was a blend of nostalgic melodies and contemporary charm leaving the audience in awe.
Hosted by the inimitable Billy Crystal the night was filled with laughter and musical brilliance. Crystal’s sharp wit and timeless humor set the tone for an unforgettable evening. The stage was graced by Tony Award winners Darren Criss, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and Lea Salonga along with the rising star Halle Bailey. Under the baton of conductor Thomas Wilkins the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, accompanied by members from the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles and the California State University, Fullerton University Singers, created a symphony of sounds that resonated with the audience.
Billy Crystal’s Witty Commentary
Billy Crystal, known for his impeccable comedic timing, did not disappoint. He opened the night with a jab at the recent political climate, remarking, “I haven’t heard excitement like that since they took Trump’s name off the Kennedy Center. Unbelievable.” The audience erupted in cheers, setting a lively atmosphere for the rest of the evening.
Crystal also poked fun at the infamous Los Angeles traffic, quipping, “Everything’s slow here. That’s how we count our mail-in ballots — very slow.” He continued with a humorous reference to the recent mayoral race, “Right before I came out, they had the final results of the governor race, and Gray Davis is going to be in.” The joke, which referenced the former California governor, elicited laughter and applause from the crowd.
Crystal’s humor extended to the choice of the evening’s theme, “It was either this or holding a UFC match here, and we decided that we would be classy and respectful.” His remarks about Trump’s recent UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House added a layer of political satire that resonated with the audience.
Broadway Stars Take the Stage
The night was a celebration of Broadway’s rich history and its enduring impact on American culture. The performers brought to life some of the most beloved songs from the Great White Way, showcasing their exceptional talents and leaving the audience spellbound.
Darren Criss captivated the audience with his renditions of “Something’s Coming” from West Side Story and “The Music of the Night” from The Phantom of the Opera. His duet with Lea Salonga for “Suddenly Seymour” from Little Shop of Horrors was a highlight of the evening, showcasing their chemistry and vocal prowess.
Halle Bailey known for her role as Ariel in Disney’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid delivered a mesmerizing performance of “Part of Your World.” She also sang “Home” from The Wiz demonstrating her versatility and range.
Renée Elise Goldsberry thrilled the audience with her performance of “Satisfied” from Hamilton a role that earned her a Tony Award. Her singing and rapping were as sharp as ever, reminding the audience of her incredible talent.
Lea Salonga belted out “Defying Gravity” from Wicked showcasing her powerful vocals and emotional depth. Her medley of ABBA favorites from Mamma Mia! was a crowd-pleasing moment that had everyone on their feet.
Brian Stokes Mitchell took on “Wheels of a Dream” from Ragtime a song he first performed during the debut production. His charisma and vocal prowess were on full display, leaving the audience in awe.
The Magic of Collaboration
The evening was not just about individual performances but also about the magic of collaboration. The highlight of the night was the first act finale, an elegant rendition of “Put on Your Sunday Clothes” from Hello, Dolly!. The performers united in an exuberant group number, showcasing the glory of teamwork and the power of collaboration.
The exquisite lighting, shifting with pastel shades of Spielbergian wonder, lent a cinematic quality that felt appropriate to a stage named in honor of composer and conductor John Williams. A fleet company of dancers, choreographed and costumed by Spencer Liff added to the dreamlike effect of a concert bookended by numbers from A Chorus Line.
The Hollywood Bowl’s opening night was a testament to the enduring power of Broadway and the magic of live performance. It was a night filled with laughter, music, and memories that will be cherished for years to come.
