THE RAT PACK TRIBUTE – IN A CLASS ALL BY ITSELF

October 18, 2005

THE RAT PACK TRIBUTE – IN A CLASS ALL BY ITSELF

Let me first say that I love Branson and that I fly there often from Canada to see the sensational array of shows that are presented there. Needless to say that I am overwhelmed every time. As much as other shows impress me, for me, there is one that is truly second to none – the brilliantly
conceived salute to the Rat Pack.

Picture by Kurt Moore

No matter what your age is, you are familiar with Frank, Dino and Sammy. You either grew up to their music and admired them in their heyday or you have grown to discover them in recent years, like me (I’m 31), thanks to the revival of their music and performances on video. Their appeal is ageless.

This show vibrantly captures the essence of what the Rat Pack was all about – not only the unforgettable signature songs, but the sense of fun and camaraderie, the chemistry, the playful humor – all presented in a classy style by tribute artists of the first rank. Russ Loniello as the charismatic Dino, Dave Salera as the Chairman of the board and James Tarver as the unique Sammy literally transcend time to transport us into their
Vegas-flavored journey.

This show celebrates its theme from first minute to last – at no time does it get away from its center. And everything is LIVE, meaning that a superb band supplies the rich music throughout. Thus, the pace is dynamic, you can feel the energy from the first note onward.

The performers really connect with the audience and capture the voice, mannerisms and persona of the legendary artists in mesmerizing fashion. They literally bring the Rat Pack back to life at their very summit – it is an experience that has to be experienced to be believed. I have nothing but the highest praise to lavish on the calibre of the performances and on the true-to-life, arresting magnetism the cast exudes, something which is often sadly lacking in most tribute shows.

It is the rare show in which everything flows. The pace is smooth and energizing, like your favorite song. The spirit is contagious and the humor refreshingly spontaneous. You Fly to the Moon with Sinatra, spend an Evening in Roma with Dino and reminisce about the great Bojangles with
Sammy.

Fun songs (Candy Man, When You’re Drinking) alternate with love songs (That’s Amore, I’ve Got You Under My Skin), powerful dramatic solos (My Way, What Kind of Fool Am I?), infectious duets (Sam’s Song, You’re Nobody Till Somebody Loves You) and trio numbers (The Lady Is a Tramp, Luck Be a Lady). Through it all, witty repartee unfolds, allowing us to share the fun and bond the 3 legends were famous for.

The show is moving to a new location – the Branson Mall Music Theatre – and debuting April 11th. Very conveniently located in the mall with restaurants and stores all around. It won’t be long before I show up! My family and I saw it once in September, 3 times in December and we still can’t get enough of the nostalgic trip with the kings of cool. Tickets to a show of this magnitude would sell for twice as much anywhere else, so don’t miss out on that one!!! Yes indeed, “Memories Are Made of This”.

K Philippot - Kirkland, Quebec