The Rat Pack – Live from Las Vegas
Adelphi Theatre, London
The tried and tested formula of tribute shows is alive and kicking at the Adelphi Theatre where The Rat Pack – Live from Las Vegas is playing. This ultimate starry tribute to Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin originally opened at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in 2003. Since then, it has been presented at several venues, including the Savoy and Strand theatres.
It will appeal to those of all generations who like music of this era, as well as those who are addicted to tacky television programmes such as Stars In Their Eyes. It will be hard not to catch an audience member singing or swaying in the stalls. Indeed, on the night I went, the man behind me was having such a good time that, annoyingly, he seemed unable to distinguish between theatre and karaoke.
The action takes place in Las Vegas’ Sands Hotel in the 1960s, where the trio performed in their heyday. They are supported by the glamorous Burelli Sisters (Charlie Bull, Lizzii Hills and Gracie Holdstock).
Director and choreographer Mitch Sebastian has assembled a good cast of sound-alikes, but not true look-alikes. Louis Hoover plays a smooth Sinatra well and, when he sings his signature song, he really has the audience in his grasp. Giles Terera plays Sammy Davis Jr – a particular delight is watching him strut his stuff during “Mr Bojangles”. Dean Martin is played by either Mark Adams, Nigel Casey and Sam Kane. Casey took the role at the performance I saw. Once I had got over the shock of seeing no resemblance to the star, I warmed to Casey’s talents.
All in all, this is an entertaining evening. However, if you want to save your pennies in the run-up to Christmas, it might be better to listen to a CD.
Sharon Garfinkel
