Jim Caruso's Cast Party with Billy Stritch

Jim Caruso's Cast Party is a cherished Monday night tradition at Birdland Jazz Club, a vibrant variety show that has been bringing Broadway flair and sharp wit to New York's Theater District since 1993. Each week, host Jim Caruso presides over an impromptu soirée where celebrated performers and up-and-coming talents share the stage, backed by the superb piano of Billy Stritch, Steve Doyle on bass, and Daniel Glass on drums. The atmosphere is electric with spontaneity, as the crowd never knows which showbiz luminary might pop in for a number.

What makes Cast Party truly unique is its open-mic spirit—audience members are encouraged to step up to the grand piano and showcase their own talents, rubbing elbows with seasoned professionals in an intimate, supportive setting. It's a night where the line between spectator and participant blurs, creating a communal experience that embodies the heart of New York nightlife.

Adding to the allure is Billy Stritch, a Grammy-winning songwriter and longtime musical director for Liza Minnelli. His polished piano work and arrangements lend a sophisticated jazz sensibility to the proceedings, making each evening a masterclass in musical entertainment.