Are you excited to feel the beat of dancing feet in 42nd Street? Don’t hesitate to get your tickets for this toe-tapping dance extravaganza here in Solano County. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about this fan-favorite musical production right here in Fairfield, California that will quickly rocket to the top of your must-see list.

The Backstory

The novel 42nd Street was written by Bradford Ropes in 1932, and adapted into a Hollywood film in 1933. The sparkling Ginger Rogers who made her breakthrough appearance in the film alongside Warner Baxter, Ruby Keeler, and Dick Powell.

Despite the subject matter - an inside look behind-the-scenes of a Broadway show - 42nd Street didn’t make it to the stage until 1980, almost 50 years after it’s original publish date!

In 1980, producer David Merrick took a gamble when he decided to stage the classic musical film. It had only been done once before and the production was deemed a failure. However, 42nd Street – with its giant cast, big numbers from Al Dubin, Johnny Mercer and Harry Warren, and all the glitz and glamor – became a huge success. It went on to win the Best Musical Tony Award and run for nine years.

A few years later, in 1989, Solano College Theatre produced 42nd Street for the first time.

And now, in 2026, we’re producing this tap-dancing spectacular once again!

What is 42nd Street about?

At the height of the Great Depression, aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to the big city from Allentown PA, and soon lands her first big job in the ensemble of a glitzy new Broadway show. But just before opening night, the leading lady breaks her ankle. Will Peggy be able to step in and become a star? The score is chock-full of Broadway standards, including "You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me," "Dames," "We're In the Money," "Lullaby of Broadway," "Shuffle Off to Buffalo" and "Forty-Second Street."

What age is it appropriate for?

Suitable for all ages. While there is no official rating system for live theatre, we encourage you to use your judgment based on age, maturity level, and subject matter. This show contains mild sexual content, violence, and cigarette/alcohol use, but these make up a small portion of the script. If you have further questions, please reach out to us by emailing SCT@solano.edu.

How long is 42nd Street?

42nd Street is 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Where is 42nd Street playing in Norcal?

It’s playing at Solano College Theatre in Fairfield, CA (Solano County) on the Solano Community College main campus.

Who is in the cast?

With over 50 cast members appearing on stage every night, the show has one of the biggest casts performing in Solano County. The stage at Solano College Theatre is one of the few stages in Solano County that can comfortably host a tap-dancing cast that size.

• Dorothy Brock is played by Steph Parry. Steph recently hit the headlines after stepping into a leading role of Mamma Mia! just 20 minutes before the curtain went up. Her predecessors include Lulu and Sheena Easton. From September this year, legend Bonnie Langford will be taking the role of Dorothy.

• Julian Marsh is played by Tom Lister. Tom is best-known for his role as Carl King in Emmerdale. He has played the role of the stern but insightful director since the show opened.

• Peggy Sawyer is played by Clare Halse. Clare has appeared in many West End shows including Wicked, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, Gypsy, and Shrek The Musical. She’s played star-in-the-making Peggy since the show opened in 2017.

• Billy Lawlor is played by Ashley Day. Most recently, Ashley starred as Jerry Mulligan in An American In Paris during its West End run. Prior to Ashley, the role of Billy was played by Stuart Neal.

• Maggie Jones is played by Jasna Ivir. Jasna played the formidable Mrs Gloop in Charlie And The Chocolate Factory but is most famous for appearing in the 25th Anniversary concert of The Phantom Of The Opera.

• Bert Barry is played by Christopher Howell. Christophe is a West End favourite and has appeared in many, many productions including Cinderella, Made In Dagenham, Stephen Ward, Wicked, Hairspray, My Fair Lady, The Witches Of Eastwick, and Fame.

Will I like it?

This show is pure musical magic. Filled to the brim with glamour, sequins and familiar songs, it’s a hark back to traditional musical theatre. If you like massive dance spectaculars with some heart-warming tunes, plus an inspiring story, then step right up! It’s a joyful show for all the family that’ll make you want to go and buy a pair of tap shoes.

Where can I buy tickets?

Right here with us! Just visit the Official London Theatre 42nd Street ticketing page to find great tickets at great prices.

The show is also participating in Kids Week 2018; throughout August, a child aged 16 or under can go free when accompanied by an adult paying full price. Adults can also purchase up to two extra children’s tickets at half price, and there are no booking fees to pay.