David Cassidy on the Web
Nostalgic celebration opens 'Rat Pack' musical show
July 21, 1999
By Elizabeth Foyt
www.lasvegassun.com
A trip down memory lane and a most pleasurable glimpse into the golden era of live Las Vegas entertainment, "The Rat Pack is Back" is a certain pleaser for locals and visitors alike. Produced for the Desert Inn hotel by Las Vegan David Cassidy with prolific writer Don Reo, the production features a quartet of fine vocalists plus a 12-piece orchestra directed by Lon Drew Bronson.
Opening festivities extended over several days to include the resort's favored guests, as well as the press and entertainment leaders. Prior to the show champagne and hors d'oeuvres, served in an elegant manner, were enjoyed by many. Among them were Laura Herlovich, Ira David Sternberg, Helen Sax, Howard Jochsberger, Monty Rock III, Gina Molovina, Tom Hawley and Myram Borders. Guests were also presented with commemorative "Rat Pack" T-shirts and hats and a delightful CD of songs by Bobby Caldwell, who plays Frank.
The Desert Inn's Starlight Room, an intimate lounge extensively redone during the resort's massive renovation, is an ideal setting for this show, which weaves witty repartee and classic ballads most associated with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop. In keeping with this nostalgic theme, even the drinks -- among them the "Dean Martini," "Blue Eyes" and "Pink Ladies" -- are named for the music of the era.
The vocals are consistently pleasing with a strong sound, but the production truly comes alive with the performance of Steve Apple as Dean Martin. He clearly echoes the sound as well the mannerisms and body language of this superb crooner in his prime. Giving a smoky after-hours feel to his own presentation is Tony Tillman as Sammy Davis Jr., with his delightful "What Kind of Fool Am I?" and "Mr. Bojangles." Adding a special sparkle as well is the cameo singing appearance by David Cassidy in the role of a young Bobby Darin. "The Rat Pack is Back" is presented at the Desert Inn six nights a week.
