Sutton Foster Opened The Soraya Season With Hugh Jackman
The Broadway star delivered a two-hour performance featuring a surprise guest in Northridge.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Cultural
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Sutton Foster kicked off the 2026-27 season at The Soraya in Northridge with a near two-hour concert. The performance included a surprise appearance by Hugh Jackman, with whom she performed "A Million Dreams."
Why it matters
The event marked the beginning of The Soraya's 16th season and showcased the venue's role as a major cultural hub in the region. It also highlighted a musical partnership that dates back over a decade.
The performance lasted nearly two hours and featured the Pacific Jazz Orchestra. This show launched the 16th season for the Northridge venue.
The players
Sutton Foster
She is a celebrated Broadway actress and singer known for her lead roles in numerous major stage productions.
Hugh Jackman
He is a prominent actor and singer recognized for his extensive work in both theater and major motion pictures.
The Soraya
This is a prominent performing arts venue located in Northridge that is entering its 16th season of programming.
Chad Hilligus
He currently serves as the executive and artistic director of The Soraya.
The details
Accompanied by the Pacific Jazz Orchestra, Foster performed standards like "I Get a Kick Out of You." Hugh Jackman joined her on stage to sing "A Million Dreams," a song the pair had previously workshopped 12 years ago.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: Sutton Foster performed at The Soraya in Northridge.
Industry Dynamics
The season opener at The Soraya follows a trend of major performing arts centers utilizing high-profile celebrity appearances to anchor their annual programming launches. This strategy helps venues maintain visibility in a competitive Los Angeles entertainment market.
The performance provided local residents with an early opportunity to secure attendance for the 16th season at The Soraya. Tickets for future shows in this season are expected to follow similar demand patterns for high-profile talent.
The takeaway
Foster's concert demonstrates how live performance venues can leverage long-standing artistic relationships to drive interest in a new season. Audience members can look for similar collaborative performances as institutions increasingly prioritize high-impact opening events.
Further reading
Explore more local arts coverage in the Cultural section.
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