Review: Rat Pack Live from Las Vegas

I was admittedly abit confused as I waited for the Rat Pack live from Las Vegas to start at the Sunderland Empire. I wasn’t sure whether I was about to watch a musical, or a tribute concert. It turns out it was the latter that was gracing the stage this time, and may I just say, it was a truly magical evening.

Upon watching the concert, It’s safe to say that there will never be anything quite like those three again. The showmanship, the voices and the music hark back from a time of brilliance in the music world. The music showcased in this wonderfully entertaining stage show is among some of the best music ever produced, performed by an exceptionally talented group of performers who make the whole thing seem effortless.

Frank, Sammy and Dean are rightfully legends of popular music. This tribute concert is a fitting send off to some of the most exciting and entertaining people in music ever.  Apart from the uncanny resemblance to the guys themselves, the performers were also exceptionally funny, with impeccable timing and brilliant stage presence. The audience were transported back to the glitzy Sands Hotel thanks to the subtle, yet effective lighting. The 15 piece band was powerful and warm, saxophones and trumpets, double basses and jazz drums belted out the timeless tunes of the rat pack. You really did feel that you were sitting, there at the Sands Hotel, actually watching the Rat Pack, loosing yourself in the music and the showmanship of the performers.

The extremely sexy and effortlessly glamorous Burelli Sisters certainly kept the male audience entertained as they glided and swung across the stage, occasionally providing beautifully orchestrated harmonies and backing to the big three.

There’s no denying that Sammy Davis Junior was one of a kind. An extraordinary talent that had the ability to hold an audience as he danced joked and sang his heart out. Jason Pennycooke’s rendition of Mr Bojangles was simply flawless, spine tingling at the very least. The highlight of the evening came when the entire cast joined together for one last sing song before the night was done. It was a great ending to a truly magical show.

Their unique contribution to 20th Century popular music is second to none – relive the talents of THE RAT PACK at the Sunderland Empire. If you wish you’d swung with the hardest partying pack in town, now’s your chance!

Drift back to the glitz and glamour of the 50s and 60s with FRANK, SAMMY & DEAN at the Sunderland Empire, 10 – 15 May 2010.