Broadway Bingo at Western Reserve Playhouse is Part Cabaret, Part Competition — and Audiences Can’t Get Enough

Western Reserve Playhouse will host the return of Broadway Bingo in 2026, continuing what has quickly become a distinctive tradition in the theatre’s programming. Created and hosted by Cabaret Coordinator Patrick Hanlon, the event will take place on February 27, April 10, June 5, July 31, and October 2 at WRP’s historic barn theatre.

Unlike a traditional “night at the theatre,” Broadway Bingo is designed to feel relaxed, social, and completely approachable. The lights stay up, the atmosphere is casual, and audiences are free to move, mingle, grab a drink, or step out without missing a beat. It’s the joy and electricity of live musical theatre — big voices, big moments, spontaneous performances — without the pressure of formal seating, strict silence, or a three-hour commitment. Whether you’re a lifelong musical fan, or someone who just wants a fun night out with friends, Broadway Bingo invites you to experience showtunes in a way that’s accessible, low-stakes, and undeniably fun.

But it’s not only fun for the audience; the singers are playing a game of their own. Each evening features a rotating ensemble of singers who each prepared songs in advance. Because every square on the bingo card corresponds to one of their selections, the setlist is dictated by chance… and while some performers may sing several times, others may not be called at all.

Performers earn points based on how frequently their name is drawn, but also earn points for preparation, use of lifelines, and how many friends they have in the audience. The performers in competition are the main appeal of the event. “For the audience it’s fun, because the setlist is literally in the cards,” says Hanlon, “so you get to enjoy what is essentially a musical theatre social hour. But the performers are playing a way more twisted game; will I even get to perform tonight?” Broadway Bingo can certainly be described as a musical game night where chaos meets cabaret.

In keeping with the event’s playful tone, any performer who is never selected receives the “Cosette Award,” a tongue-in-cheek tradition in which they are handed a broom and asked to perform “Castle on a Cloud”. On the opposite end, the most featured performer takes home the “Big Mouth Award”, featuring a gaudy gold necklace with a massive blinged-out Patti Lupone portrait.

The February 27 installment will also include a special fundraiser supporting Western Reserve Playhouse’s ongoing Name-a-Seat Campaign, offering attendees an opportunity to participate in the theatre’s seat installation initiative. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, with one bingo card included. Additional cards may be purchased for $5. Although technically open to all ages, the event is designed primarily for adult audiences, and some contemporary Broadway selections may include language consistent with current musical theatre repertoire.

Tickets and additional information are available at thewrp.org/bingo