Picture this: A holiday season in Los Angeles transformed into a magical extravaganza of music and theater, where one of Broadway's brightest stars brings the curtain down on an unforgettable run that promises to leave audiences buzzing for weeks. But here's where it gets controversial—does peppering a residency with surprise guests elevate the experience or turn it into something more like a celebrity reunion than a pure artistic showcase? Buckle up, because Ben Platt's upcoming residency at the Ahmanson Theatre is set to spark just that kind of debate, and we're diving into all the details to help you decide for yourself.
Get ready for Ben Platt to take center stage in a spectacular 10-night residency at Los Angeles' iconic Ahmanson Theatre. This talented performer, who has scooped up Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Awards for his stellar work, will grace the venue operated by the Center Theatre Group from December 12 through 21. Dubbed Ben Platt: Live at the Ahmanson, the event will feature Platt collaborating with an ensemble of high-profile special guests to belt out his most beloved songs and classic Broadway tunes that have stood the test of time, according to the theater group's announcements.
While the exact lineup of these cameo stars remains under wraps, Platt's previous residency at New York's Palace Theatre last year offered a taste of what's possible. That show drew in luminaries like Cynthia Erivo, Nicole Scherzinger, Jennifer Hudson, Kacey Musgraves, Sam Smith, Micaela Diamond, Shoshana Bean, and more, creating a who's-who of entertainment that had fans talking. And this is the part most people miss: The Ahmanson run promises nightly surprises, ensuring no two performances are alike and keeping even the most seasoned theatergoers on their toes.
Directed by the acclaimed Michael Arden, who won Tonys for his work on Parade, this residency feels like a heartfelt return to roots for Platt. The Los Angeles native kicked off his career on these very stages with productions such as Dead End and Caroline, or Change, making it a special homecoming. To put this in perspective for anyone new to the theater world, a residency like this is essentially a series of concerts or shows by a single artist over a short period, often at the same venue, allowing for deeper connections with the audience than a one-off performance. The Ahmanson has hosted similar extended concert series from legends like Diana Ross, Bernadette Peters, and Lea Salonga, so Platt is joining a prestigious tradition that highlights the theater's role as a hub for musical excellence in Hollywood.
Snehal Desai, the artistic director at Center Theatre Group, couldn't contain his enthusiasm: 'After blowing audiences away last year at The Palace on Broadway, we are thrilled to welcome Ben back to our own legendary venue, the Ahmanson Theatre,' he shared. 'When you think of the very best in musical theatre, it simply doesn’t get any better than Ben Platt, whose stage presence and charisma make him one of the seminal performers of his generation. Plus, you never know who is going to join him on stage each night! It promises to be the holiday event of the season.'
For more details on the show, including how to grab tickets and navigate the experience, head over to the Center Theatre Group's website. And while you're at it, why not stay in the loop with THR Newsletters? Sign up to get the latest Hollywood Reporter news delivered straight to your inbox every day—it's a great way to catch up on all things entertainment.
Now, here's something to ponder: Is the thrill of unexpected guests worth potentially shifting focus away from the main act, or does it add an unbeatable layer of excitement to live theater? Do you think residencies like this are the future of Broadway, or could they risk diluting the intimacy of a solo performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below—do you agree with the hype, or is there a counterpoint you've noticed in similar events? We'd love to hear your take and keep the conversation going!
