In honor of the iconic Leonard Bernstein’s 100th birthday, TheatreSourceLA presented an electrifying tribute at the Skirball Cultural Center, connecting audiences with the maestro’s extraordinary influence on American music. The “Happy Birthday Mr. Bernstein” celebration included two special performances on August 26 at noon and 2 p.m., showcasing an impressive roster of talent that paid homage to Bernstein’s enduring legacy through song, dance, and heartfelt performances.
A Star-Studded Cast Honors Bernstein
The performance was graced by standout talent, including Sandra Diana Cantu, known for her recent portrayal of Anita in West Side Story at El Portal and SVCAC. Cantu’s energy and artistry added an extra spark to the show as she revisited her role and performed alongside her husband, Chris M. Kauffmann. Cantu’s performance captured the vibrancy of Bernstein’s work, seamlessly blending musical theater with her signature flair from Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, where she performs weekly.
Paul Cluoma also brought his extensive experience to the stage. A seasoned performer with a BFA in Musical Theatre Performance from Western Michigan University, Cluoma has a rich history in theater, including roles in Company and Into the Woods. His presence and vocal prowess were integral to the show, lending depth to each Bernstein-inspired number.
Kristin Towers-Rowles, TheatreSourceLA co-founder, award-winning actress, and recent cast member in the world premiere of Part of the Plan in Nashville, brought her exceptional talent and charisma to the stage. Known for her performances across more than 100 productions, Towers-Rowles captivated audiences, adding a seasoned voice and dynamic energy to the celebration.
Brayden Hade, TheatreSourceLA’s creative director, enriched the performance with music arrangements and his role as a performer. Hade, an NYC transplant with credits in film, web series, and the Hollywood Fringe Festival, showcased his multifaceted talent. His arrangements honored Bernstein’s complexity, while his performance reminded audiences of Bernstein’s dedication to art and humanity.
Diverse Performances and Unique Talent
The cast included Samantha, a musical comedian whose humorous take on relationships—highlighted by her song “100 Easy Ways to Lose a Man”—had the audience in stitches, blending comedy with her musical talent. Philip, another standout, wowed with his powerful rendition of West Side Story’s “Something’s Coming,” while also sharing his expertise as an arranger and orchestrator for Pikakee Music, bringing a touch of Broadway to Los Angeles.
Additional performers included the versatile Michelle Holmes, celebrated for her work in Nosferatu and Young Frankenstein and known for her ability to blend humor and gravitas. Alicia Luoma, a graduate of Elon University, added her powerful voice to the tribute, reflecting the emotional depth that characterizes Bernstein’s work. Rachel Mount, a talented singer and choreographer from Orange County, contributed her vocal talents, her background in a cappella and gospel music enriching the musical landscape.
Kristin Farrell, TheatreSourceLA co-founder and seasoned performer, directed and choreographed the show, infusing it with Bernstein’s signature passion for storytelling. Farrell’s experience as a performer and resident choreographer brought a polished yet heartfelt quality to the show, further enhanced by her vision for honoring Bernstein’s legacy.
A Tribute that Transcends Time
TheatreSourceLA’s Happy Birthday Mr. Bernstein production honored Bernstein’s genius not only by revisiting his beloved works but also by embodying his commitment to community, inclusivity, and the transformative power of the arts. Set against the Skirball’s Leonard Bernstein at 100 exhibition, the performance connected the past with the present, celebrating Bernstein’s impact on music, social justice, and the arts. For one afternoon, TheatreSourceLA brought Bernstein’s legacy to life, allowing the Los Angeles community to experience the unifying spirit of his work.
As the performers took their final bows, the show was a powerful reminder of Bernstein’s enduring message: music, art, and storytelling can change the world. TheatreSourceLA’s tribute at the Skirball was more than a performance; it was a call to carry Bernstein’s legacy forward, continuing to inspire generations to come.
