Entertainment Spotlight: “Cheyenne Jackson – Music From the Mad Men Era”
Update: We just received word that, due to illness, this show has been postponed until July 15 and 16.
For those of you who limit your Las Vegas entertainment selections to Strip shows (not those kind), you’re truly missing the wealth of talent and options at Downtown’s The Smith Center. This large and gorgeous performance space, which seems lifted from a stylized Gotham City rendering, is a haven for remarkable entertainment.
From large Broadway productions to intimate solo performances, the many venues inside The Smith Center attract noteworthy stars from across the globe.
This Friday and Saturday, Smith Center presents the return engagement of gifted singer/actor/dancer/director Cheyenne Jackson. Jackson brings his “Music From The Mad Men Era” to the Center’s Cabaret Jazz showroom for three encore performances. He will be joined by his longtime musical director Ben Toth.
Those who only know Cheyenne through his work on American Horror Story: Hotel or the film United 93 might be surprised to learn that Jackson is deeply rooted in Broadway musicals. Of course, fans of TV’s Glee already know that he is one remarkable singer and dancer.
Admittedly, my opinions of Jackson are biased. I was lucky enough to meet Jackson at the Manhattan Macy’s back in 2008, then spent that evening onstage with the towering Spokane Washington native for the spoofy Broadway musical Xanadu. Yes, really (it’s a long story…).
Meeting with Cheyenne Jackson after the show
Since then, I’ve become a fan of Jackson’s ever-evolving career…but most especially his vocal talents. I feel no shame in admitting that when Jackson’s single “Drive” pops up on my car stereo shuffle, it gets cranked up…as does my own voice.
Cheyenne originally brought his Music of the Mad Men Era show to Smith Center’s intimate Cabaret Jazz club in October of 2014. It was great to reconnect that night while enjoying songs from his latest album “I’m Blue, Skies” alongside classics “Luck Be A Lady Tonight” and “A Little Less Conversation”.
Of course, Jackson looks great in a black suit and knows how to belt out standards with his powerful and velvety voice. But charisma is what makes his solo performances so riveting. The intimate setting at Cabaret Jazz compliments Cheyenne’s stylings perfectly. So, it’s no surprise that he is coming back to Las Vegas for another round of shows.
Don’t miss it.
Cheyenne Jackson – Music of the Mad Men Era performs this Friday, March 11th at 7 pm and Saturday at 6 pm and 9 pm. Tickets start at $39 and can be purchased by clicking here.
Photos: [Sammasseur, Official Cheyenne Jackson, BroadwayWorld.com]
A fitness buff and Vegas fan. Sam enjoys shows, bargains, and cheap healthy eats.
