Bootleg Betty
Epic 46 Years of Divine Madness Celebration (Yesterday)
By Mister D
Sept 18, 2026
This is the standout “Divine Madness” connection for today’s date in history.
The film, also known as Bette Midler Is Divine Madness, captures Midler’s high-energy stage show. The show comes from performances at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in February 1980.
It was the first production from The Ladd Company. It features her with backup singers, the Harlettes, performing a mix of songs, comedy, and theatrical bits.
It opened more widely in late September 1980. New York opened on the 25th, and Los Angeles followed on the 26th. This run earned Midler a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Musical/Comedy.
