By Kaitlyn Gibbens Bethesda Little Theatre is known for their musical revues and original musical premieres. But, after considering a cabaret format for a couple of years, Director Cathy McCoskey and music director Jeff Hayes bring the dream to life in a dazzling two-part cabaret series, Bond to Bacharach. The first show in the series, The Music of Bond… James Bond, emanates “the essence of Bond— the words, the music, the style, the ambiance,” according to director McCoskey. Everyone from the ushers to the performers will be dressed in their finest formalwear, ready to transport you into the elegant world of the secret agent. There will even be an opportunity for audience members take some Bond home with them; raffle tickets will be sold for the James Bond movie posters that will be part of the set! The second cabaret, Bacharach Makes the Music Play, promises to ignite music-filled memories for both the performers and the audience members. McCoskey says, “Bacharach collaborated with many lyricists, and we hope to capture all of them in some way.” The cabaret series will be held in a small, intimate setting with a beautiful piano accompaniment. The venue has small tables of two or four, and audience members will be able to select their seats after purchasing the tickets. In addition, audience members can purchase food and drink (including beer and wine), to enjoy a half hour before showtime. While the bar will close before the show begins, audience members are welcome to consume their food and drinks during the show. You are sure to experience some “magical moments” during these performances! The performances for The Music of Bond… James Bond are Friday, October 18, 2024, at 7 PM and Saturday, October 19 at 2:30 PM and 7 PM. Tickets are on sale now, and Friday night is already sold out! The performances for Bacharach Makes the Music Play will be January 10, 2025, at 7 PM, and January 11 at 2:30 PM and 7 PM. Tickets go on sale December 1. Both shows will be performed in the Fireside Room at River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation (6301 River Rd, Bethesda, MD 20817). Ticket prices are $25 for adults and $20 for students and seniors. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended as seating is limited.