On July 8th, 2024, Musical Mondays at The Chapel at The Abbey was transformed into a powerhouse showcase of vocal talent as TheatreSourceLA presented Divas 7/8/24. This electrifying event, produced by TheatreSourceLA and Brayden Hade, brought together four extraordinary performers—Tara Alise Cox, Armie Jane Pascual, Natalie Luna, and Cassandra Caruso—each delivering a dynamic tribute to some of musical theatre’s most iconic songs and roles. It was a night that celebrated the range, spirit, and unforgettable energy of the modern musical theatre diva.
The evening began with the dynamic Tara Alise Cox, who brought a fierce performance of “No Way” from Six the Musical. Cox’s bold, unapologetic energy and powerhouse vocals embodied the defiance and charisma of Henry VIII’s ill-fated queen, creating a moment of pure theatrical intensity. Known for her commanding stage presence and ability to bring raw emotion to her roles, Cox delivered a performance that was both empowering and exhilarating, capturing the essence of a true diva.
Following Cox was the equally thrilling Armie Jane Pascual, who delivered a bold rendition of “Don’t Rain on My Parade” from Funny Girl. Channeling the ambition and charm of Fanny Brice, Pascual’s rich, dynamic voice filled every corner of the Chapel. Her fearless take on this classic was both heartfelt and powerful, a testament to her ability to embody the ambition and drive of her character. Pascual’s star quality and vocal skill left the audience in awe, marking her as one of the standout performers of the night.
Natalie Luna brought an entirely different tone with her soulful rendition of “What Baking Can Do” from Waitress. Known for her warm, moving portrayals, Luna captured the resilience and heartache of Jenna with remarkable finesse, drawing the audience into Jenna’s journey of self-discovery. Luna’s ability to bring depth and subtlety to each role she inhabits made her performance a highlight, resonating deeply with the crowd and leaving a lasting impression.
Closing the night was Cassandra Caruso, whose lively performance of “Screwloose” from Cry Baby brought the house down. Known for her impeccable comedic timing and infectious stage presence, Caruso captivated the audience with her humor and vocal precision. Transforming the quirky, lovestruck Lenora into a whirlwind of delightful chaos, Caruso’s versatility and boundless energy provided a joyful, comedic finale, cementing her as one of the evening’s most memorable performers.
The event was produced by Brayden Hade, TheatreSourceLA’s co-founder, who brought his unique vision and passion for musical theatre to the production. Known for his work as an actor, director, and producer, Hade has been instrumental in creating spaces for innovative and engaging performances across Los Angeles. His production of Divas 7/8/24 was a seamless blend of talent and creativity, curated to celebrate the powerhouse voices that define musical theatre. Hade’s dedication to showcasing both established and rising stars has made TheatreSourceLA a hub for the city’s vibrant musical theatre community, fostering an environment where performers can shine in intimate and supportive settings.
Hosted in the cozy, atmospheric Chapel at The Abbey, Divas 7/8/24 offered an intimate yet powerful experience, bringing audiences close to the incredible talent on stage. The setting allowed for a deep connection between the performers and the audience, making each song feel like a personal performance for everyone present.
TheatreSourceLA’s Divas 7/8/24 at Musical Mondays wasn’t just a showcase; it was a celebration of the diverse talents of these remarkable women and a reminder of the powerful stories that musical theatre can tell. With each performer delivering their own brand of magic, the event was a resounding success, leaving audiences inspired and eagerly awaiting the next installment.
