I did not know what to expect when I walked into the Mirage’s Danny Gans Theatre… and when I found an older crowd dancing in their seats and clapping to pre-show songs such as YMCA and Love Train… I was skeptical to say the least.
As song impersonator, Danny Gans is a definite powerhouse, imitating the likes of Frank Sinatra, Maroon 5, Otis Redding, Dave Matthews, Rod Stewart, James Taylor and even Kenny Chesney. Not only did he nail the tone and pitch of each artist’s songs, but he transformed his body language to perfectly mock each performer’s onstage persona. He provided a movie preview of each performer, and afterwards, I wanted to go out and see all of their concerts. The adeptness in which he quickly transformed from one personality to the next was impressive to say the least. Performing the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” with each stanza belonging to a different personality had the audience’s jaws on the floor. Going from Wayne Newton to Larry the Cable Guy to Woody Allen in under three breaths cannot be an easy feat.
Gans also provided needed comedy relief throughout the show by mimicking the likes of Johnny Carson, Jeff Foxworthy, Michael Jackson and Elvis. My friend sitting next to me was in tears by the end of his Redneck jokes and my cheeks were definitely aching from laughing. The only downer on the entire night, in my opinion, was his decision to perform his own song after a lengthy, personal and religious-toned story as well as his choice to end the evening with Broadway musical selections, which I have little knowledge of or appreciation for.
Gans is slated to move to the Wynn shortly, and I would be interested to seeing his new act. However, his “last” shows at the Mirage, locals tell me, will surely be a stunner as well.
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