By AJ Jaffari

What happens when women from diverse backgrounds—each sharing the same determination to succeed on Broadway—come together to tell their stories? That’s the heart of TTC’s latest production, Ladies of Broadway. Led by Terry Burrell, Galyana Castillo, Diane J. Findlay, Kate Marilley, Vasthy Mompoint, Kristin Piro, and Libby Servais, the show blends quirky personal anecdotes with beloved Broadway classics, both old and new, creating an evening that is equal parts heartfelt and celebratory.

Each performer is given her moment to shine with a solo, while the show also weaves in playful duos, dynamic trios, and full-ensemble numbers. Presented in a cabaret-style format, the evening moves seamlessly from sharp Fosse-inspired choreography to powerhouse Broadway belting, and even a tender jazz ballad that softens the mood—a perfect touch for a beautiful night under the stars.

Let’s recap some of my personal favorite moments.

Okay, I may be a bit biased—since we recently hosted Kate on our podcast (which you should definitely check out if you haven’t already)—but I was absolutely blown away by her talent. Her dancing is sharp and precise, but it’s her voice that truly commanded the stage, especially in her solo performance of Sunset Boulevard’s “As If We Never Said Goodbye.” I’d previously seen Marilley in the first Beetlejuice Broadway national tour, but it was a delight to experience her in a more intimate setting, where every nuance of her performance shone through.

With only seven women in the cast, it’s hard not to want to highlight them all—but another standout for me was Libby Servais. As a lifelong Wicked fan, I was elated to see a Glinda take the stage and share her story of being cast in the show, before charming us with her playful rendition of “Popular,” complete with an audience participant (the one time I would have loved to be pulled from my seat!). Libby still radiates the same sparkle she brought to Glinda years ago, and it was an absolute delight to watch her recount that experience with such warmth and humor.

Transcendence is truly a joyous company. It’s impressive how they’re able to transform such a vast area of the Field of Dreams in Sonoma into an outdoor venue unlike any other theatre experience I’ve had. For Ladies of Broadway, the band—led by Susan Draus—was a major force behind the evening, capturing that signature Broadway sound while blending in pop, jazz, and even a touch of reggae. Choreography by Dylan Smith was sharp and vibrant, while Melinda Hare’s costumes were colorful, stylish, and perfectly tailored to each performer’s personality.

This is the kind of show I’d recommend even to those who don’t usually gravitate toward musicals. The storytelling is relaxed and approachable, rather than structured like a traditional book musical, which makes it easy for anyone to enjoy. And if you haven’t already listened to our podcast (wink, wink), be sure to tune in for a special ticket discount—and then make a night of it in Sonoma with Transcendence. You won’t be disappointed.

Ladies of Broadway runs through September 14 and tickets are available here.