Alice Cooper-Topeka-4.17.26

Alice Cooper at Topeka Performing Arts Center on April 17th, 2026.

Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor, Bob DeHart Photography

Alice Cooper kicked off his “Alice’s Attic” tour on April 14^th in San Antonio, Texas. I was lucky enough to catch the show a few nights later on the 17^th in Topeka, Kansas. Topeka just happened to be my hometown and it worked out for me to be able to cover the show. This is not my first rodeo with Alice and his band, so I knew what to expect.

There are many things that are “classic” Alice, that should never change. Those being the giant Frankenstein that harasses the band during “Feed My Frankenstein” and then guillotine to remove Alice’s head. Although expected, those parts of the show never get old. Alice is the consummate showman. He is literally getting better with age and each night seems to be stronger than the last.

If you have followed Alice Cooper for a while, there was one notable new addition to the band. Nita Strauss is not currently touring (she is about to have a baby) and she was replaced by Anna Cara. Anna has also played with guitarist Tommy Henrikersen in Crossbone Skully. With a strong connection, it might have been an easy selection for Alice to choose her as a replacement. Anna did a great job and is a great choice to fill in for Nita. The rest of the band was firing on all cylinders as always put on a terrific show.

The stage set was significantly different, utilizing lots of video effects throughout the set. And a few setlist changes. The was the first time I got to hear Alice sing “Only Women Bleed” live, and they added a surprise encore of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit”. Which, went over really well. Alice’s voice is as strong as ever. I don’t know how much longer Alice will continue to tour, but as long as he is touring, you will find me at a show. I love seeing a legend continue to grow.