A distinguished array of musical theatre talent will join forces to celebrate the life -- and heart -- of composer, arranger, and musical director Brad Ellis in Forbidden Bradway, a benefit that will be held on March 22 at the Pasadena Playhouse.

The 38-year-old Ellis, who is probably best known for his musical direction of Gerard Alessandrini's popular Forbidden Broadway and Forbidden Hollywood, underwent a successful heart transplant last August which left him with substantial medical bills.

Directed by David Galligan, Forbidden Broadway will feature performances by George Ball, Billy Barnes, Jodi Benson, Suzanne Blakeslee, the cast of Blame It on the Movies, Patrick Cassidy, Alan Campbell, Anthony Crivello, Tim Curry, Nancy Dussault, Susan Egan, the cast of Forever Plaid, Davis Gaines, Malcolm Gets, Jason Graae, Reece Holland, Lauren Kennedy, Vicki Lewis, Amanda McBroom, Gerry McIntyre, Crista Moore, Karen Morrow, Michelle Nicastro, Amy Pietz, Joan Ryan, Jennifer Leigh Warren, and Lynne Wintersteller.

Money raised will go directly to National Transplant Assistant Fund, a nonprofit organization acting as a trustee for the Brad Ellis Medical Fund. The Pasadena Playhouse is at 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena, Calif. Tickets prices range from $30 to $130 and can be purchased by calling (626) 799- 4167.

-- by Diane Snyder