A BROADWAY BLOCK PARTY

Tituss Burgess, Heather Headley, and
Signature Theatre turn a summer concert
into a joyous celebration of musical theater

Heather Headley with Jon Kalbfleisch

There are summer evenings at Wolf Trap that entertain, and then there are evenings that remind you why Broadway music continues to resonate across generations. Signature Theatre’s sixth annual Broadway in the Park delivered exactly that kind of magic, bringing together two powerhouse performers—Tituss Burgess and Heather Headley—for a concert celebrating the richness, humor, and heart of the American musical.

Tituss Burgess with Jon Kalbfleisch

Under the direction of Matthew Gardiner, with Jon Kalbfleisch leading the orchestra, the program showcased an inspired mix of Broadway standards and contemporary favorites, performed by a stellar company of Signature Theatre favorites alongside the evening’s celebrated guests. The result was less a traditional concert than a joyous celebration of musical theater at its finest.

Heather Headley

Headley, commanding from the get-go, gave us “Over the Rainbow,” which was breathtaking—rich, soulful, and emotionally nuanced without ever becoming sentimental. Later, she shared a moving interpretation of “Lost in the Stars,” bringing depth and tenderness to the Kurt Weill classic. Every phrase seemed effortless, revealing the remarkable control and warmth that have made her one of Broadway’s most admired vocalists. Whether delivering soaring ballads or joining the company in ensemble numbers, Headley brought grace and emotional honesty to every appearance.

Tituss Burgess

Burgess proved once again why he is one of the most captivating performers working today. Possessing one of Broadway’s most distinctive voices, Burgess balanced dazzling vocal technique with impeccable comic timing. His smoky, dramatic interpretation of “Guess Who I Saw Today” unfolded like a miniature theatrical masterpiece as he delicately layed out every twist of the story. Later, he brought the house down with a wicked performance of “Poor Unfortunate Souls” from The Little Mermaid, relishing every villainous lyric with theatrical flair, vocal brilliance, and irresistible humor. Between songs, his spontaneous wit and infectious personality transformed the expansive amphitheater and lawn into something remarkably intimate.

Sarah Anne Sillers, Jake Odmark, Nova Y. Payton, Tobias A. Young, Crystal Mosser, Kevin McAllister, and Alex De Bard

The Signature Theatre artists were far more than supporting players—they were essential collaborators in the evening’s success. Nova Y. Payton‘s radiant performance of “On the Sunny Side of the Street” brought effortless swing and warmth, while Kevin McAllister offered a compelling, character-driven interpretation of “I, Don Quixote” from Man of La Mancha. Sarah Anne Sillers, Alex De Bard, Crystal Mosser, Jake Odmark, and Tobias A. Young each contributed performances reflecting the extraordinary depth of talent that has become Signature Theatre’s hallmark. Rather than simply accompanying the headliners, the company created an evening that underscored the collaborative spirit of musical theater.

Jon Kalbfleisch and the Wolf Trap Orchestra

Kalbfleisch’s orchestra provided a vibrant musical foundation throughout the concert, moving seamlessly from lush Broadway orchestrations to jazz standards and contemporary favorites. Gardiner’s pacing kept the evening moving briskly while allowing quieter moments room to breathe, creating a program that felt thoughtfully curated rather than simply assembled.

Crystal Mosser

Perhaps the greatest triumph of Broadway in the Park was its sense of community. On a perfect summer night beneath the stars, thousands gathered not merely to hear familiar songs but to share in the joy, optimism, and storytelling that define Broadway. The chemistry among Burgess, Headley, the Signature artists, and the orchestra made every number feel like a tribute.

Sarah Anne Sillers

As Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap continue this annual collaboration, Broadway in the Park has firmly established itself as one of the Washington area’s most anticipated summer traditions. With two extraordinary headliners, a remarkable ensemble, and the incomparable setting of Wolf Trap’s Filene Center, this year’s concert was a joyful reminder that great musical theater isn’t confined to Broadway—it flourishes wherever exceptional artists come together to tell stories through song.

Nova Y. Payton

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photos by Carolin Harvey

6th Annual Broadway in the Park
Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
1551 Trap Road in Vienna, Virginia
played June 20, 2026
for more info, visit Signature Theatre
for future events, call 877.WOLFTRAP or visit Wolf Trap and Wolf Trap’s calendar

for more shows, visit Theatre in DC

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