Alice Cooper Taps 22-Year-Old Guitarist To Fill In For Nita Strauss

Alice Cooper revealed young British guitarist Anna Cara will stand in for longtime guitarist Nita Strauss on his upcoming tour. Strauss previously announced she’s stepping away from road to welcome her first child this summer.

The 22-year-old Anna Cara made a name for herself on Instagram where the talented Newcastle native has amassed over 50,000 followers. Cara has worked with Krokus’ Marc Storace and Hollywood Vampires guitarist Tommy Henriksen. She’s also a member of Crossbone Skully.

Alice Cooper weighed in on the change, stating: “Nita found a brilliant British female guitarist to fill in for her while she is on maternity leave. Anna Cara is a beautiful dynamic shredder in the vein of Nita but with a style of her own. She will fit in with our gang perfectly while Nita is away and we can’t wait for the sick things to meet her. Welcome to the show, Anna!”

Cara shared the following about the honor:

“This is like a dream come true, to join Alice and his great band. Back when I started playing guitar at 14, I was watching Alice Cooper live shows on YouTube dreaming of joining one day! Nita Strauss is a tough act to follow, and she’s been so encouraging to me this past month, so I am looking forward to showing everyone who I am and what I can do.

“When I was asked in an interview who I thought was the best up and coming guitarist, I had no hesitation in answering ‘Anna Cara.’ Anna’s precision and soulful, emotional playing will make her an amazing asset to the Cooper tour! Working with Alice for 12 years has been the experience of a lifetime and I look forward to seeing you all back on the road (with a +1 along for the ride!) Until that time comes, I know that the show is in good hands and the fans are in for a treat!”

Anna Cara makes her Alice Cooper debut tonight at the first of three “Welcome To Our Nightmare” shows in Las Vegas with illusionist Criss Angel. The “Alice’s Attic” tour follows starting on April 14.