Legends In Concert

Do you ever get that sweeping sense of nostalgia, when you hear the voice of an archaic crooner? The velveteen vocals of Nat King Cole on that venerable track “When I Fall In Love”, still connotes an era of light-hearted melodies and the romantic simplicity of music. Conversely, Tina Turner's “Simply The Best” conjures an altogether different memory for many – usually of an uncle commanding the dance floor at a family wedding. But where in the world, could you possibly find a show that unites such prolific icons, and celebrates the time-defiant legends of 20th Century music? Where else but Las Vegas!

Floodlit Harrah's Hotel and Casino, at the heart of the Las Vegas 'Strip' sets the glitzy backdrop for the world's most eclectic variety show. The former headline act for the Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino; “Legends” now occupies a prime showroom within Harrah's, sharing the 750-capacity venue space with stand-up comic Rita Rudner. In stark contrast to most of the impersonation performances currently featuring on the Strip (which have been running for less than a decade), “Legends” predates the clean-cut, modern show format, with a recipe for crowd-pleasing that goes back to 1983. Interestingly, the show's original running was predicted for only six short weeks!

“Legends In Concert” is often regarded as a stoic and historical journey, taking in many of the late and great artists of the 20th Century – however, this is not to be confused with an 'in memoriam' tribute to icons no longer with us. While the likes of Elvis Presley, John Lennon and Marilyn Monroe are given more than ample coverage, the show bridges the old/ new divide with featured contemporary sets. Such greats as Elton John, Madonna and Rod Stewart inevitably make the grade - as do more recent artists with “Legend's” ever-evolving schedule of stellar tribute acts. Katie Murdock bears an uncanny physical and vocal resemblance to mainstream artist Britney Spears, while you could be forgiven for doing a double-take when Chris and Geoff Dahl (a.k.a The Blues Brothers) explode onto the stage. The eclectic production further sets itself apart from any other impersonation show on the Strip, since it also boasts a world-class orchestra of top theater and touring musicians from several continents.

“Legends” elaborate stage presentation is surprising for a show dedicated solely to music. On Stage Entertainment (the production company behind the show) have invested far more than great head-hunting skills to propel the show's popularity, and recently revamped their entire technical stock, with a multi-million dollar laser light show, and improved sound system. The result is akin to a fully outfitted, professional concert one might experience in a New York 'super-venue', complete with bliss-lighting for the ballad numbers, and a high-octane strobe experience, for the more energetic tracks.

Privately owned and managed, “Legends In Concert” now holds an esteem in Vegas as the longest running independent show, ever to have headlined. The move to Harrah's shortly after the 25th anniversary in 2009 marked a real turning point for the production, which has already achieved a litter of firsts – including the first Vegas production ever to tour the major Russian cities of Moscow, St. Petersburg and Riga back in 1991. Awarded the coveted International Press Association awards for “Show Of Shows” and “Grand Slam” during the 1990's, “Legends” already had a cult international following, however the recent move to the heart of the Strip, has cemented it's allure as a national U.S attraction.

The show's frequent cast rotation means you never know quite who will be strutting their stuff on stage on show night, however this inevitably adds to the anticipation. Hopefuls seeking 80's throwbacks such as “Prince”, will not be disappointed with the flamboyant personality that is Frank Moore. Similarly, Charles Middleton as “Ray Charles” and Bobby Brooks as “Stevie Wonder” transport you back to the 50's and 60's with such assured ease - you might well begin to wonder if you are experiencing it all over again. Few tribute shows (if any) offer such a comprehensive variety of talent, coupled with a family-friendly show that bridges multiple generations. With an age guideline of 3 years and above, this is a blast to the past for the young, and young at heart!