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February 15, 2026 7:00 PM
Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, Eli and Edythe Broad Stage
1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
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Applause

Music by
Charles Strouse
Lyrics by
Lee Adams
Book by
Betty Comden and Adolph Green

Fasten your seatbelts for APPLAUSE, Tony Award-winning musical inspired by the classic film All About Eve and the original story by Mary Orr. This rarely seen gem pulls back the curtain on Broadway life, centering on the battle of wits and ambition between stage legend Margo Channing and her cunning understudy, Eve Harrington.

In celebration of the life and legacy of the late Charles Strouse, we’re proud to present this high-energy homage to theatre itself—featuring his vibrant 1970s score, including the hits “Applause,” “But Alive,” and “Welcome to the Theater.” With lyrics by Lee Adams and a book by Broadway legends Betty Comden and Adolph Green, APPLAUSE is packed with sass, wit, and heart, brought to life with MTG’s signature flair for rediscovering Broadway’s hidden treasures.

Tonight’s orchestra performance will be enhanced by the generosity of the David Lee Foundation.

Cast

Barbara Carlton Heart
Margo
Brian Kim McCormick
Bill
Taubert Nadalini
Duane
Joshua Finkel
Buzz
Leslie Stevens
Karen
Robert Yacko
Howard
Melissa Lyons Caldretti
Bonnie
Patrick Beller
Ensemble
Kevin Matsumoto
Ensemble
Benny Perez
Ensemble
George Xavier
Ensemble
Jennifer Bennett
Ensemble
Jasmine Ejan
Ensemble
Roma Scarano *
Ensemble
Chantal Tribble *
Ensemble
* Guest Artist

Production Photos

Creative Team

Director/Choreographer
Trance Thompson
Musical Director
Brad Ellis
Stage Manager
Leesa Freed
Production Coordinators
Jenny Gordon and Tonoccus McClain

View Program

Click thumbnail for PDF

Applause

is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.

www.concordtheatricals.com

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