About Cast Party

“The gold standard of open mic nights.”

-The Wall Street Journal

Start spreading the news…since 2003, Jim Caruso’s Cast Party has been turning Monday nights at Birdland into a glittering, anything-goes variety spectacular! Every week at 9:30pm, Broadway legends, jazz divas, crooners, tap dancers, and total surprises collide in the most rollicking open mic on the planet.  Bring your sheet music, your sass, and your A-game…or just grab a cocktail and soak in the razzle-dazzle from the comfort of your seat. It’s the ultimate spot to mix and mingle with talented show folk and their fans. The buoyant, sharp and charming Caruso guides the entire affair, while musical genius Billy Stritch (Liza Minnelli, Tony Bennett) holds court at the ivories and leads the world famous Cast Party Symphony Orchestra (Steve Doyle on bass and Daniel Glass on drums). The best part is that the audience is invited to participate in the musical festivities. 

Jim and Billy also love taking the celebration on the road, and make regular stops at venues in LA, Palm Springs, Las Vegas, London…any place where there is great talent!  There have also been Very Special All-Star Cast Party events at The Town Hall and Jazz at Lincoln Center.
 

Cast Party has been honored with thirteen BroadwayWorld Awards, seven MAC Awards (including Show of the Year, 2022), a Bistro Award, and two Nightlife Awards.  On the occasion of the 20th Anniversary, the New York City Mayor proclaimed July 24th “Jim Caruso’s Cast Party Day,” the State of New York named the date “Cast Party Appreciation Day,” and New York City Council celebrated the show “for it’s outstanding contributions to New York City and the American theatre.”

It’s spontaneous. It’s hilarious. It’s musical mayhem at its finest. Cast Party isn’t just a show—it’s a showbiz lovefest.

Photo by Christopher Boudewyns

"Whereas, I am enormously proud to lead a city renowned as a global capital of the arts. Jim Caruso's Cast Party has enriched our dynamic cultural landscape since 2003, and on the occasion of it's 20th anniversary, I am pleased to recognize the weekly show's tremendous contributions to our performing arts and nightlife sectors."

-Eric Adams, Mayor of the City of New York

HOW IT WORKS