All shows start at 5PM

Live At the Orinda 2026/2027 Season subscriptions are SOLD OUT!

To get on the Subscriber waiting list, please email Michael Williams at mdw500@gmail

Marilyn Maye tickets will go on sale Sept 10, 2026

Individual show tickets for the rest of the season will go on sale:

Sept 16, 2027

 Opening Night!

MARILYN MAYE

Marilyn Maye tickets will go on sale September 10, 2026

We're honored to open our Live At the Orinda 2026 - 2027 concert season with multi-award winning jazz and cabaret legend Marilyn Maye. Although she's been revered as an American treasure for decades, after seeing her perform in person, many have said that she's also one of the greatest Wonders of the World. 

As one of his all-time favorites, Johnny Carson called Marilyn Maye a "Super-Singer". She appeared on The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson a record 76 times - more than any other singer in the show's history. 

Steve Allen presented Marilyn several times on his national TV show, leading to an RCA recording contract, 7 albums, 34 singles (including her hit version of "Cabaret"), and a Grammy Award nomination for Best New Artist. Marilyn's recording of "Too Late Now" was included by the Smithsonian Institute on the album "110 Best American Compositions Of the 20th Century."

Marilyn's numerous TV appearances include the Merv Griffin Show, Mike Douglas Show, Hollywood Palace, Jim Nabors Show and the Ed Sullivan Show. On NBC's Harry Connick, Jr, she was interviewed by Harry and sang her classic version of "Here's To Life". She's appeared twice on CBS Sunday News, interviewed exclusively by Mo Rocca. 

In 2023, Marilyn Maye sold out the iconic Carnegie Hall with her celebrated solo concert and a star-studded crowd of 2,804 people in attendance. She performed for 2 hours with the 83 piece New York Pops orchestra, received numerous ovations, 7 rave published reviews and was honored with a proclamation from NYC Mayor Adams, declaring March 24, 2023 "Marilyn Maye Day". 

Marilyn Maye continues to perform throughout the United States and for the past 13 years has held a residency at the prestigious 54 Below in NYC, selling out her 10-show runs every Fall and Spring (appearing next Nov. 17 - 28, 2026). Similarly, her twice yearly, multiple show appearances at the Purple Room in Palm Springs have been selling out for the past 14 years.

Marilyn's new 2026 album, "The Magic of Marilyn Maye: Live at Jazz at Lincoln Center" was recently released to rave reviews and is available now at all CD outlets and download/streaming platforms. 

"Maye doesn't simply perform - she engages...she delivers each lyric as if it were meant for you alone. This is not simply cabaret. This is a masterclass in longevity, connection and the art of performance. Marilyn Maye is not just a survivor of the nightclub era - she is one of its last great living embodiments. And as long as she is on that stage, the magic remains very much alive." - Times Square Chronicles 

"...in 2026, we’re seeing Magical Marilyn Maye maintain her mantle as cabaret’s greatest artist, the one everyone looks up to, the one the artists emulate, the one the audiences marvel at." - Broadway World

November 8, 2026

BETH LEAVEL

We're thrilled to present Tony Award winning Broadway star Beth Leavel in her first Bay Area concert in 7 years!

For her performance as the title character in The Drowsy Chaperone, Beth Leavel received Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle and LA Drama Critics Awards. She also received Tony, New York Outer Critics Circle and other nominations for her roles as Dee Dee Allen in The Prom and Florence Greenberg in Baby, It’s You.

On Broadway, Beth also originated the roles of The Duchess in Lempicka, June Adams in Bandstand, Emily in Elf, Mrs. Bixby in The Civil War and Tess in Crazy For You. Other Broadway credits include Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends alongside fellow Tony winners Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga, Donna Sheridan in Mamma Mia!, Frau Blucher in Young Frankenstein, Dorothy Brock in the revival of 42nd Street, Ellie in Hal Prince’s Show Boat, and Anytime Annie (her Broadway debut) in 42nd Street. 

Other New York credits include starring as Lucille in the New York City Center Encores! production of No, No, Nanette, as well as the off-Broadway productions of Lone Star Love and Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays.

Regionally, Beth has performed some of the most iconic roles in musical theatre – from Mama Rose in Gypsy at The Muny and Dolly Levi in Hello Dolly at Cape Playhouse and The Muny, to Sally Adams in Call Me Madam at the Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, the Witch in Into the Woods at the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera, and Miss Hannigan in Annie at the Paper Mill Playhouse.

She also starred as Miranda Priestly in the Chicago premiere of the new musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada, directed by Anna Shapiro and featuring music by Sir Elton John, lyrics by Shaina Taub and a book by Kate Wetherhead.

Beth has dazzled and delighted sold-out audiences with her cabaret act, which she has taken from 54 Below in New York City to other venues across the United States. 

You might also recognize Beth from numerous commercials and TV shows/films, including Ghosts of Christmas Always, The Bite, Walking Dead: World Beyond and the final episode of ER.

With 2 x Grammy nominated music director Phil Reno

www.BethLeavel.net 

"Beth Leavel is an honest to God, dyed in the wool, high voltage Broadway star of the kind we don’t get to see much anymore." - Bistro Awards

"Beth Leavel is, above all else, surprising, mesmerizing, and unforgettable." - Broadway World

December 6, 2026

BRYAN ENG

We're happy to present the Northern California debut of Bryan Eng! From New York City, multifaceted jazz pianist, singer, composer, and actor Bryan Eng is quickly emerging as one of the most accomplished young entertainers of his generation. With performances at the Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Birdland, and appearances on Broadway and television (Law & Order, Chicago Fire), Eng has already made his mark on some of the world’s most iconic stages. He is also the youngest resident performer at the famed
Carlyle Hotel, where Broadway World hailed him as “the heir apparent to evenings with Bobby Short.”

Eng’s dynamic career spans from headlining performances at the Met Gala Party and Tony Awards Party to opening for legends Chaka Khan and Sheryl Crow. Most recently, he was the recipient of the Julie Wilson Award for Emerging Artists, presented at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall. His artistry has also taken him abroad, including a featured performance in the French Riviera on the Dave Koz Somma Cruise.

A Northwestern University graduate, Eng first gained acclaim in Chicago, where he held multiple performance residencies and starred at award-winning regional theaters—prompting the Chicago Sun-Times to declare that “Eng’s star wattage is undeniable.” After relocating to New York City, he joined the Broadway cast of Plaza Suite alongside Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, cementing his reputation as a versatile and magnetic performer.

Now a rising star in New York’s jazz and cabaret scene, Eng continues to captivate audiences at the Carlyle and across the country with his acclaimed Bryan Eng Trio.

BryanEng.com
@thebryaneng

"The heir apparent to evenings with Bobby Short" - Broadway World

"Eng's star wattage is undeniable." - Chicago Sun-Times

"If you see Eng on the schedule, it's a guarantee you'll be entertained." Broadway World 

January 24, 2027

BRENNA WHITAKER

A Voice and A Piano

with music director Michael Orland

We're excited to present powerhouse jazz and soul singer Brenna Whitaker in her first Bay Area appearance in 15 years! Born in Kansas City, Brenna Whitaker grew up in historic homes that her parents renovated and restored—some of them haunted—sparking a lifelong love of history, storytelling, and imagination. By age eleven, she was already performing in professional regional theater, laying the foundation for the captivating stage presence she is known for today.

After moving to Los Angeles, Brenna quickly became a cornerstone of the city’s live music scene. Renowned for her emotionally rich interpretations and deep reverence for timeless songs, she emerged as a central figure in the resurgence of Los Angeles’s “jazz nights”. Her larger-than-life stage presence and unmistakable voice have attracted an extraordinary range of admirers and collaborators. Legends including Stevie Wonder, Tom Jones, Gladys Knight, and Gene Simmons have participated in her performances, while contemporary artists such as Justin Bieber, John Mayer, Derek Hough, and Michael Bublé have joined her on stage—all drawn together in celebration of great songs, showmanship, and the musicianship of a good old-fashioned show.

Brenna’s debut album was produced by legendary producer David Foster. Her music has been featured on FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance, RuPaul’s Drag Race, and ABC’s Dancing with the Stars. She contributed “It’s Not Easy Being Green” to Universal Records’ "We Love Disney" album and has toured with Andrea Bocelli and Michael McDonald. A passionate advocate for dance and live performance, she regularly collaborates with the Los Angeles Jazz Dance Company.

In 2026, Brenna will release two new albums—"Reverie" and "Simply Christmas"—on Green Hill Music (Sun Label Group / Primary Wave Music). Produced by acclaimed pianist Gordon Mote, the recordings further showcase her cinematic artistry, emotional depth, and distinctive voice.

The Brenna Whitaker Little Big Band performs at exclusive private events and concert venues worldwide and holds a monthly residency at Herb Alpert’s iconic Vibrato Grill Jazz in Bel Air, CA.

BrennaWhitaker.com

"One of the finest singers of our generation." - Michael Bublé

"She's got the swing, she's got the sass, but most importantly, she's got the PIPES!" - Quincy Jones

With music director Michael Orland (American Idol)

February 2, 2027

LIANNE MARIE DOBBS

Why Can't A Woman...?

Broadway/TV actor (Les Misérables, The Gilded Age, Law & Order, The Equalizer) and cabaret star Lianne Marie Dobbs returns to her native Bay Area where her first professional credit at 15 years old was Dorothy in The Wizard Of Oz at Center Rep, followed by dozens of productions at TheatreWorks, A.C.T., and 42nd Street Moon. Now after more than 20 years in New York City, Lianne is an in-demand performer who can “interpret a ballad with sensitivity and the dramatic ability of a seasoned actor, yet has a voice powerful enough to cause more damage to a venue’s roof than a Florida hurricane.”  -TheatrePizzazz

Lianne brings us her critically-acclaimed show, Why Can't A Woman...? featuring one of a kind piano & voice arrangements by renowned music director Ron Abel (Petula Clark, Helen Reddy, Lucie Arnaz). Linked together with passages from female authors and classic heroines, Lianne takes on Broadway leading men songs and sassy standards and serves them up with a twist of SHE. 
 

Jane Eyre sets a new scene for a Sondheim lyric,
Maya Angelou turns up the heat for Cole Porter,
and Dorothy Parker satirizes a Sinatra tune. 

"A spectacular, intriguing evening created by a performer who has the acting and vocal ability that is completely captivating on every level." Broadway World 

"Her rendition of 'Something's Coming' is the BEST I've ever heard!" - Times Square Chronicles

"She is a STAR!" - Broadway World

March 7, 2026

MEGHAN MURPHY

The Big Red Show

Get ready Bay Area, as the weather pattern is about to change again! After taking Broadway and the world by storm, vocal powerhouse Meghan "Big Red" Murphy blows into the Orinda Theatre by popular demand! When tickets went on sale for Meghan's Live At the Orinda debut in 2025, they sold out within 24 hours, so get yours now! The award winning singer, actress, global cabaret star and world traveler, described as "a cross between Jessica Rabbit and Bette Midler" will dazzle us in an evening of songs, sass and stories, chronicling her global wanderlust and songbird shenanigans. Originally from San Jose, the now Chicago-based entertainer has traveled the globe with her electric one-woman show, selling out theatres in NYC, London, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Provincetown, Palm Springs, Puerto Vallarta, Orinda and many more.

As well as conquering concert stages around the world, Meghan has also conquered the musical theatre world, garnering a multitude of nominations over the years and winning Chicago's Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Leading Performance as Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes in 2024. Directly after Meghan's triumphant show at the Orinda, she went to Broadway to star in the critically-acclaimed revival of Andrew Lippa's The Wild Party, co-starring with Broadway stars Tonya Pinkins, Adrienne Warren, Jasmine Amy Rogers, Lesli Margherita, and Live At the Orinda's Claybourne Elder. In August 2025, Meghan starred as Jacqueline, along with Tony nominated Broadway legend Norm Lewis in The Muny's spectacular production of La Cage Aux Folles. Other memorable roles include Lady Of the Lake in Spamalot - "Meghan Murphy stops the show. Period. " - Chicago Tribune; Cabaret - "Meghan Murphy as Fraulein Kost is superb." Chicago Sun Times; Mamma Mia! "Meghan Murphy stops the show with the sizzling "Does Your Mother Know?""- Daily Herald; Something Wicked This Way Comes and The Drowsy Chaperone.

Come see what all the fuss is about!  "A sparkling redhead with a dynamite voice," (Chicago Sun Times), a razor-sharp wit, and a stage presence full of Old Hollywood glamour, Big Red will have you laughing, crying, and begging for more! From jazz to pop, from soul to showtunes, she'll sing 'em all and turn you into her next biggest fan! She's an old broad with a new twist. Big voice. Big laughs. Big Red.

"A vocal powerhouse with a sardonic sense of humor and a whip smart, present-tense presence." - Chicago Tribune

"Murphy is one of those stars who changes the temperature of the room when she walks in the door." - Life and Times

"A towering inferno of talent!" - Broadway World

April 11, 2026

NIC & DESI

Broadway stars and real-life married couple Nicolas Dromard & Desiree Davar invite you into a world where classic Broadway romance meets vintage Hollywood glamour, with a modern twist.

If your heart skips a beat at the sound of Gershwin, Berlin, Porter, and the Great American Songbook, you’re in the right place. With soaring vocals, thrilling tap-dancing, and undeniable chemistry, Nic & Desi deliver an intimate, joy-filled evening of song, dance, and romance that feels both timeless and fresh.

The award-winning duo met onstage in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and went on to star in Broadway's Wicked, West Side Story, Jersey Boys, Chicago, Cabaret and Mary Poppins. Together, they’ve captivated audiences from Broadway to London’s West End, across the U.S., and on international stages worldwide.

Rooted in the golden age of Broadway and Hollywood but made for today, Nic & Desi bring classic entertainment to life with their own style, chemistry, and point of view. It’s a night of great music, incredible dancing, plenty of laughs, and two performers doing what they love most, together.

May 23, 2027

DEZ DURON

For our Season Finale, we're excited to present Grammy nominated singer and actor Dez Duron in his Bay Area concert debut!  Rising to national recognition as a Top 8 finalist on The Voice (Team Christina Aguilera), Dez has since built a reputation as one of today's most compelling young crooners, drawing comparisons to icons like Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé. In 2024, Dez made his acclaimed Broadway debut, originating the role of Gil Brentley in the Tony award winning Best Musical Maybe Happy Ending, following his standout performance in the show's world-premiere production at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre. Expanding his artistry, he released his debut single, "Let's Just Call It Love," showcasing his talent not only as a vocalist but also as a gifted songwriter.

With music director Michael Orland (American Idol)

Live At the Orinda 2026-2027

All shows at 5 pm

New subscriptions are sold out!

To get on the Subscriber waiting list, please send an email to Michael Williams: mdw500@gmail.com

Become a Live At the Orinda subscriber!

VIP:  $645 ($1100 value) Discounted ticket prices, center section reserved seats for the season rows 1-6 with your name on the seats + 3 drink tokens per season, pre-show champagne

Gold:  $520 ($635 value) Discounted ticket prices, side section reserved seats for the season rows 1-6 with your name on the seats + 2 drink tokens per season

Silver:  $467  ($580 value) Discounted ticket prices, center section reserved seats for the season rows 7 -10 with your name on the seats + 1 drink token per season

Bronze:  $430 ($512 value) Discounted ticket prices, side section reserved seats for the season rows 7-12 with your name on the seats 

All shows are presented on Sundays at 5 p.m. in our intimate 170-seat theatre. All seating is reserved, with most tickets from $55 - $100, no drink minimums and no outlandish "service fees". Subscribers enjoy ticket discounts, reserved seats for the season and complimentary drinks. 

Become a show underwriter/associate producer!

With funding for performing arts organizations being deeply cut throughout the country, now more than ever, we need your support. To help defray ever increasing production costs, our custom-built Meyer Sound system, and lighting enhancements, we're providing an opportunity to those who'd like to become a show underwriter. For a $1000 + donation, you can choose the artist(s) you'd like to underwrite and we will offer a complimentary space in the show program - for a charity or a business that you'd like to highlight, or even a tribute to a loved one. You'll also receive special recognition in the program and from the stage.

Live At the Orinda is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit performing arts organization. Donations can be tax deductible to the extent permissible by law.

Executive Producer  $5,000+      Producer $2,000+           

Co-Producer $1,000+     

Associate Producer $500+        Director  $250+     Associate Director $100+

Donations can be mailed to:

Live At the Orinda
PO Box 302
Danville, CA 94526

Live at Orinda Concert Series

Live At the Orinda is a vibrant 501(c)(3) DBA of the California Independent Film Festival Assocation (48-1272276) nonprofit performing arts organization that has been enriching the Bay Area's cultural landscape since 2018. By hosting world-renowned artists from Broadway, television, film, cabaret, and jazz at the historic Orinda Theatre, this organization brings people together, inspiring connection and creativity. With a focus on accessibility and community, Live At the Orinda offers an intimate 180-seat setting with state-of-the-art sound design, reserved seating, and affordable tickets starting at $65, with no additional fees or minimums. Subscribers enjoy exclusive benefits, including discounted tickets, priority seating, and complimentary drinks, fostering a sense of belonging and shared passion for the arts. For more information and tickets, visit OrindaTheatre.com.