Jim Caruso Brings His Famed Variety Show to YouTube with Pajama Cast Party

Table of Contents

  • Jim Caruso's Background

  • Cast Party at Birdland

  • Transition to Pajama Cast Party

  • Musical Guests and Production

  • Keeping Live Entertainment Alive

Jim Caruso's Background

Jim Caruso is a renowned cabaret performer and host based in New York City. For over two decades, he has been a champion of Broadway, jazz, and musical theater. Caruso is known for his charismatic stage presence and ability to assemble amazing talent.

Originally from Texas, Caruso moved to NYC and quickly made a name for himself in the cabaret scene. He has performed sold-out shows at venues like Carnegie Hall and released albums as a singer.

Cast Party at Birdland

Caruso's most famous endeavor has been hosting "Cast Party" Monday nights at Birdland jazz club for 17 years. This beloved open mic night/variety show has featured impromptu performances by celebrities like Kristin Chenoweth, Melissa Manchester, and Clint Holmes.

With Caruso as ringleader, Cast Party developed a reputation as the place to be for extraordinary music and surprise pop-up guests. Lines would stretch around the block every week.

Transition to Pajama Cast Party

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced Birdland to close, Caruso rallied to bring Cast Party online as "Pajama Cast Party." He saw it as a way to keep the show's spirit alive and give performers a creative outlet during quarantine.

The virtual version has thrived with the same marvelous musical acts and camaraderie. Stars like Betty Buckley, Jane Monheit, andJulie Halston have graced the YouTube broadcast from their homes.

Musical Guests and Production

Caruso's little variety show that could has featured over 150 musical guests and counting. Producer Ruby Locknar handles the technical aspects seamlessly so the entertainment shines.

Pajama Cast Party has provided comfort, joy, and human connection during an isolating time. Caruso is proud to offer a space where "people can sing without being judged."

Keeping Live Entertainment Alive

Jim Caruso has shown resilience and innovation by adapting his flagship production to a virtual format. Pajama Cast Party is required viewing for anyone who loves the performing arts or needs an uplifting experience. Caruso continues working his magic online to keep great live entertainment thriving.

—This article was written, restructured, or adapted by Russell with information gathered from sources around the internet. Russell is the producer of Amber Live and is greatly overworked to pull it all together.  If it’s on the internet, it must be true. (We’re kidding.) BUT, if you find any errors or omissions in the article, please let us know so that we may correct the issue. Thanks for your support!

Article Author Russell
Previous
Previous

Composer Ed Windels and the Parking Garage Opera

Next
Next

Steve Plarre: Ferguson Plarre's Baker CEO Turned TikTok Sensation