Rat Pack Is Back

The four faces emblazoned across advertisements for the Plaza Hotel and Casino's entertainment offerings, are a familiar sight to Las Vegas visitors - instantly recognizable to most of adult age around the world. Why? Because they mark more than a passing resemblance, to a group of entertainers whose hold upon Vegas culminated in over 1,000 shows being performed over three decades – and back then Sin City was nowhere near the behemoth entertainment mecca it is today.

Las Vegas has inspired many a “Rat Pack” tribute act over the years, but few were heralded with as much favor (and for so long) as Dick Feeney's “Rat Pack is Back”. A former nightclub and theater entertainer in his own right, Dick Feeney is no stranger to the bright lights and sparkle of the gilded 'Strip'. The New England-born singer turned producer has toured for over twenty years, with such bands as the “Lewis and Clark Expedition” and “Gemini”. He found his footing on the production ladder during the 1980's, with a hand in such stage revues as “An Evening At La Cage” (1985) and “Crazy Girls” (1987). Now a respected “marketing producer”, Feeney additionally boasts “Showgirls” and “Viva Las Vegas” among his sell-out repertoire of shows, and has been afforded a coveted star along the Hollywood 'Walk Of Fame' for his work.

Dick Feeney's apparent motivation for a “Rat Pack” reprise, was his love for the spirited style of lounge and cabaret entertainment - defunct during the 1990's. Created with the original foursomes' “Summit At The Sands” stint (Sands Hotel, 1960) of shows as primary inspiration, Feeney hoped to revive a little of that “Old Black Magic” for younger audiences, who had only heard myths wafting like cigar smoke around old Vegas showrooms. The Plaza Hotel's “Sahara Showroom” couldn't have been a better fit for the show, emulating similar surroundings to those fashionable during the era of swing.

Aided by one of the most sought after musical directors in the U.S (Lon Bronson), coupled with the directorship of Robbie Howard (“Days of Our Lives” and “Price is Right”), Dick Feeney's “Rat Pack Is Back” benefits from one of the most powerful creative teams in America, however would be nothing without it's dynamic cast. Kyle Diamond cuts one of the most meticulously perfected tap accompaniments to “Mr. Bojangles”, that Las Vegas has seen since Sammy Davis Junior graced the boards of the Sands. Brian Duprey's likeness to Frank Sinatra has proven to prompt many a curious ticket purchase, and he has allegedly improved ten-fold on that trademark sneer. John Edwards pulls off a slightly baby-faced Dean Martin, while Sandy Hackett (son of comedy great Buddy Hackett) brings the same titillating one-liners to the mix, that Joey Bishop was renowned for.

To tag “Rat Pack is Back”as a sensationalist attempt at milking the Vegas connection, would truly be unjust in light of fan reviews. Those that were there during the 50's “Summit”, will attest that “Rat Pack is Back” is almost a time-bottled replication of the original nightclub revues, while those only familiar with CD recordings have commented extensively upon the vocal similarities. Sitting within the Plaza's archaic “Sahara” venue, it's not difficult to see why so many draw these conclusions. It's not just the entertainment that compliments the 50's ambiance – everything from the plush 60's décor, to the intimate booths are suggestive of a nightclub setting. This is further enhanced by flitting maitre'd's in full tuxedo; silver service dining opportunities and lamp-lit tables, where respectful patrons still feel the need to chatter in hushed tones.

Flanked by a twelve-piece big-band and accompanying backing singers, “Rat Pack is Back” gets off to a swinging start with an all-star rendition of “New York, New York”. Should this not whet your appetite, the selective solos from Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra most definitely will. Bourbon in hand, with a cigar dangling from the left of his mouth, John Edwards pulls off a convincing half-cut swagger for “Ain't That A Kick In The Head”. Conversely, “Frank” is all about maintaining eye-contact with the ladies for saloon greats “ You Make Me Feel So Young” and “Fly Me To The Moon”. Gentleman in attendance can look forward to an equally rousing experience at the hands of buxom blond - “Marilyn Monroe”. If that doesn't make you “Straighten Up And Fly Right”, the promise of an 8oz Samurai Steak, with all the trimmings sure will!