Pasadena Playhouse Announces Star-Studded Cast for New Adaptation of Brigadoon
The Pasadena Playhouse is bringing the mystical allure of the Scottish Highlands to California this spring with a fresh production of Lerner & Loewe’s Brigadoon. Featuring a new adaptation by Alexandra Silber and a powerhouse cast led by Tony Award winner Tyne Daly and Tony nominee Max von Essen, the production promises a romantic reimagining of the timeless classic.
The musical will run from May 13 through June 14, 2026, with the official opening night scheduled for May 17. This production breathes new life into the 1947 Broadway premiere, blending a lush score with a revised book inspired by Alan Jay Lerner’s original work.
A Fresh Creative Vision
This iteration of Brigadoon features a new adaptation by Alexandra Silber. The production is directed and choreographed by Katie Spelman, who recently made her Broadway choreographic debut in The Notebook. The creative team maintains the integrity of the original music by Frederick Loewe and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner, while incorporating dances originally created by Agnes DeMille.
The Cast: Broadway Veterans Take the Stage
The production boasts an impressive ensemble of seasoned performers. Leading the cast are:
- Tyne Daly: The Tony and six-time Emmy Award winner takes on the role of Widow Lundie (a reimagining of the original character, Mr. Lundie).
- Max von Essen: The Tony nominee (An American in Paris, Anastasia, Evita) stars as Tommy Albright.
- Betsy Morgan: Known for Kimberly Akimbo and The King and I, Morgan portrays Fiona MacLaren.
- Happy Anderson: The Broadway and Netflix (Mindhunter) actor plays Jeff Douglas.
- Daniel Yearwood: A veteran of Hamilton, Yearwood joins as Charlie Dalrymple.
The supporting cast further strengthens the production, featuring Brian CalÌ as Angus, Kylie Victoria Edwards as Jean MacLaren, Michael Scott Harris as Archie Beaton, and Jessica Lee Keller as Maggie Anderson. Other notable additions include Brian Kim McCormick, Spencer Milford, Chuck Saculla, Donna Vivino, and Geoffrey Wade.
The Story of Brigadoon
The plot follows Tommy and Jeff, two American tourists who stumble upon a peculiar Scottish village that only appears for one single day every 100 years. The narrative explores themes of love and destiny as one of the Americans falls for a local woman, forcing him to decide if he is willing to leave his own world behind to stay in the mysterious village.
Audiences can expect the return of beloved Broadway standards, including “Almost Like Being In Love” and “The Heather on the Hill,” performed alongside a live orchestra.
Production Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Run Dates | May 13 – June 14, 2026 |
| Opening Night | May 17, 2026 |
| Venue | Pasadena Playhouse |
| Adaptation | Alexandra Silber |
| Direction/Choreography | Katie Spelman |
| Casting | Ryan Bernard Tymensky (RBT Casting) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is starring in the Pasadena Playhouse production of Brigadoon?
The production stars Tyne Daly as Widow Lundie, Max von Essen as Tommy Albright, Betsy Morgan as Fiona MacLaren, Happy Anderson as Jeff Douglas, and Daniel Yearwood as Charlie Dalrymple.
What makes this production of Brigadoon different?
This production features a new adaptation of the book by Alexandra Silber, which includes the gender-swapped role of Widow Lundie, originally played by a man (Mr. Lundie).
When can I see Brigadoon at the Pasadena Playhouse?
The show runs from May 13 to June 14, 2026, with the official opening night on May 17.
With its combination of award-winning talent and a fresh adaptation, the Pasadena Playhouse’s Brigadoon is poised to be a highlight of the 2026 regional theatre season.
Worth a look