Usually, when a show bounces around from venue to venue, it’s a bad sign. It can mean that attendance is insufficient, or the casino isn’t promoting it well, or the space doesn’t work for the show. None of these reasons is usually overcome by moving to another venue — if the show actually does move. More times that not, when a show closes, the producers state that they say they’re “looking for a new home.” Then, it’s never heard from again.
One exception is The Rat Pack is Back. Before the shutdown in mid-March, it ws playing at the slightly off-Strip Tuscany. Previously, it appeared at the Plaza and the now-defunct Greek Isles, among other places. If that doesn’t seem like a stellar resumé, don’t be misled. It’s a really fun and enjoyable show.
A rotating cast of impersonators includes Sammy Davis, Jr., Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Joey Bishop. The production values are excellent; a big- band orchestra backs them up and there’s some audience interaction as well.
The actors definitely do justice to the Vegas icons. Sammy’s got great dance moves, Frank can belt ’em out, Dean gives us a fun drunk version, and Joey provides the comic relief. Each performer has a solo set, but they do group numbers and some shtick in between. As an added bonus, “Marilyn Monroe” makes an appearance as well.
It might sound cheesy, but if you long for the days of “old Vegas” (and according to a recent LVA.com poll, 67% of respondents do), you’ll definitely love this show and the nostalgic showroom experience.
The dress code is resort casual, but if you really want to step back in time, dress up a little and make a fancy night of it. I’m not sure if they still do it, but when I saw the show several years ago, a roving photographer took table photos like in the old showroom days, and the cast posed for pictures afterwards.
I honestly don’t know why this show hasn’t found a more prominent permanent home, but Tuscany is a nice enough place. It has some decent food options, is walkable from mid-Strip, or is a very quick cab ride from pretty much anywhere on the Strip. Do yourself a favor and put it on your Vegas to-do list. You’ll be glad you did.
There are multiple ticket options available — general admission, VIP, dinner packages — so check their website when things get back to normal (https://ratpackisback.com/).
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We play at the Tuscany all the time. One of main casinos to play and get comps. We also love Marilyn’s Cafe. One of these days when things get back to sort of normal and shows are allowed back, I want to hit up the Rat Pack is Back. Thanks for the write up.
Thanks, Ed! Let me know how you like it!
Saw this show at Harrah’s Reno, March 2019. Was very impressed. From what I was told, the performers traveled up from Vegas. Now, the old girl (Harrah’s Reno) has closed down for good. Was fun.
Not my cup of tea but I saw the show at the Plaza with a two fer. Six months later, in Vegas with another couple ; took them to see the show and paid full price. That Good!
Loved this show, is it still the concept of Sandy Hackett , thank you for bringing the lounge shows back,
We saw it at the Tuscany and it was well worth it.
This show was so fantastic! I really thought it was well done and an absolute blast. I had such a good time and would go again in a heartbeat.
Saw it at the Greek Isles about 15 years ago, or so, in much happier times for all of us, and it was an excellent value: dinner and a show. I was lucky enough to get selected to be Marilyn’s chair date for the night. A nice surprise and much fun. Have picture to prove it–if proof is required, ha.
Thanks for the article, and a reminder of an especially fun night in Vegas.