Energy and enthusiasm are the hallmarks of a slick tribute show to some of the greatest musical artists the world has seen. Legends in Concert features tributes to Elton John (Stephen Sorrentino), Cyndi Lauper (Nellie Norris) and Cher (Lisa McClowry) before interval. In the second act, it is Stevie Wonder (Tino Ibach), Tina Turner (Lori Mitchell), Michael Jackson (Jason Jarrett) and Elvis (Bill Cherry). Their representation of the real artists is often uncanny and, fortunately, it is a wide repertoire of many of the greatest hits that sold millions globally.
So many of the songs are accordingly noteworthy. Among those from Elton John are Bennie and the Jets and Candle in the Wind. From Cyndi Lauper it is Girls Just Wanna Have Fun and True Colors. Cher Turns Back Time and Believes, while Stevie Wonder is Suspicious and full of Sunshine. Nut Bush City Limits and The Best are signature numbers from Tina Turner. With Michael Jackson, it is either Black or White, as the Thriller singer also does Billie Jean. Elvis is a hunk of Burning Love, also performing You Gave Me a Mountain, Suspicious Minds and Love Me. In fact, there is a lot of love in the room – from and for the performers.
Replicating the star singers’ voices is an art form in and of itself and these artistes are masters at it. They are poised and polished. They have terrific showmanship. Their vocalisation and musicality are impressive and they bring humour and audience involvement to their characterisations. The five-piece tribute band (drums, bass, guitar, keyboard and saxophone – plus additional instruments) and two backup singers are mighty fine too.
And that is not to overlook the eight fit and lithe dancers whose array of colourful and highly creative costumes compliments their obvious talents. They were great. The ever-changing lighting is another standout feature, as is the sound at The Palms at Crown. Add two video screens, which showcase the named artists the seven represent, intermingled with close ups of those we see in front of us and the picture is complete.
Legends in Concert started as a limited, six-week engagement at a hotel casino in Las Vegas on 5th May, 1983 and is still going strong 30 years later. It is the longest running live entertainment show in Sin City’s history and globally it has entertained tens of millions of people. I have had the good fortune to see and hear Legends in Concert several times and I always think it is fabulous and wonderful value for money. I reckon this is the best of the very best. Loved it. The entertainers are professionals with a capital “P” and they put on a show with great heart and soul, which the audience laps up.
Legends in Concert is playing at The Palms at Crown until 29th January, 2023.
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- Legends in Concert (The Palms at Crown) – music theatre review
- Legends in Concert – theatre review
- Human Nature: Christmas at The Palms – theatre review
Alex First is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.
