Danny Gans Packs ‘Em In At The Mirage

Showbiz Magazine
By Hilary L. Green

The lights dim, the music begins and a sea of twinkling lights serves as a backdrop, as the handsome, singer-impressionist takes the stage to thunderous applause. He bursts into song with his powerful voice and boyish enthusiasm, almost amazed at the packed house before him and their overwhelming welcome. He is Danny Gans, “The Man of Many Voices”, whose extraordinary show in the theater that bears his name at the Mirage has garnered him numerous awards and critical review.

Gans, whose arsenal of on-the-money characterizations now numbers over the 300 mark, has taken the entertainment scene by storm. He is a favorite among audiences and his peers, drawing raves such as “The next Sammy Davis, Jr.” from Bill Cosby; “No one has ever done a better impression of my dad” from Natalie Cole and a single word summation of “Incredible!” from Joan Rivers. Hollywood luminaries are regulars in his audience, as well as sports legends and international stars. They all love to see the man who can deliver anywhere between 60 and 100, dead-on impressions in rapid-fire succession without missing a beat.

Gans gears each show to fit the collective taste of the audience. He may present Rod Stewart, David Bowie and Bruce Springsteen in one moment and a duet between Jimmy Stewart and Kermit the Frog the next moment. Or, he may keep the audiences laughing with good-natured lyrics that poke fun at stars such as Garth Brooks, Johnny Mathis and Aaron Neville. He’ll throw in Peter Seller’s famous Inspector Clouseau, of the Pink Panther movies, or he’ll do a bit in which the Simpsons are contestants on “Who Wants to be a Millionaire”. Sometimes, he’ll become Austin Powers or Dr. Evil in one breath and then Ed Sullivan.

Each show is a rich tapestry painted with music, laughter and a sprinkle of drama. It’s a show that the entire family will enjoy and one that you will be talking about long after you leave the theater.