Liza Minnelli Performs at Birdland's Cast Party

Photos by Derek Storm/Retna Ltd.

Monday nights might be dark on Broadway, but the stars certainly light up the stage at Birdland on their off nights! Jim Caruso's Cast Party has seen it's share of celeb-studded evenings, but on Monday, August 26, the club was jam-packed with showbiz royalty, all entertaining each other at the concert grand piano. Liza Minnelli brought the sold-out room to pin-drop silence with the Aznavour standard "You've Let Yourself Go," then launched into a duet with Billy Stritch of "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," dedicated to pal Mary-Louise Parker, who was also in the crowd. The new cast of Altar Boyz entertained everyone with one of their signature numbers, with composer Gary Adler at the piano. LaLa Brooks, who was the lead singer for The Crystals, sang her 1963 hit "Da Doo Ron Ron!" Manhattan Transfer alum Laurel Masse showed off a swingin' piece from her upcoming Broadway at Birdland concert. Josh Grisetti and Emily Shoolin performed a hilarious song from the York Theatre production of Enter Laughing. Broadway beauty Luba Mason performed "All That Jazz," and announced her Birdland debut to launch the upcoming Brazilian cd, "Krazy Love."

Jim Caruso's Cast Party takes place every Monday night at 9:30. Birdland is at 315 West 44 Street, NYC. Call 212-581-3080 for reservations. There is a $10 cover and $10 food/drink minimum.