VV8.21

By: Evan Davis / Entertainment Editor
As we’ve turned the corner on 2021 and
heading into the hottest month of the year,
I would like to tell you a little about the sizzling
show we have in store for you. In September, as
Vegas cools down, our Vegas Voice production heats up once again.
On September 11 th Chadwick Johnson brings his “Celebrating
the Piano Men” to Sun City MacDonald Ranch. This will be a premier
event as Chadwick is making his first appearance at MacDonald Ranch.
Besides being a wonderful singer/songwriter, he will be “Celebrating
the Piano Men”, such as Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles,
Billie Joel and More!
You will also be treated to some of Chadwick’s original awardwinning
songs.Now we’re not the only game in town. From the west
side there are places like Chianti Italian Restaurant, La Casa Cigar Bar,
Siena Italian Deli and many others.
The east side has The Nevada Room, Italian American Club plus
many restaurants offering spectacular local entertainment.
I would like to mention the performers that have made our Vegas
Voice 2021 shows, nothing short of spectacular. There’s been, Mark
OToole, Rich Natole, Genevieve, Michael Ross Nugent, the
Folk Legacy Trio, Bill Fayne, Kellie Wright, Denise Clemente,
Rita Lim, Chase Brown, Amanda King, Jonathan Karrant,
Samantha Rivero, Chadwick Johnson, Tony Arias, Ruby
Lewis, John DiDomenico, Cali Tucker, Jassen Allen, Jonny
12
Coming Attractions
In the Heights
By: Renee Riendeau / Movie Revelations
“
In the Heights” fuses Lin-Manual Miranda’s
kinetic music and lyrics with director Jon
M. Chu’s lively
authentic eye for storytelling to
capture a world very much of its
place, but universal in its experience.
This PG 13 film is highlighted by
the main cast of Anthony Ramos,
Corey Hawkins, Melissa Barrera and
Olga Merediz. It was released in June
with an acceptable overall rating of
an A- rating.
“In The Heights” is based on the
2008 Tony winner for Best Musical
that put Lin-Manual Miranda on the map. The film follows characters
from the largely Latin upper Manhattan neighborhood of Washington
Heights.
“Suenitos”, or “little dreams” are pursued with hard work and
perseverance and are achievable, although not without their obstacles.
The movie benefits by being shot on the streets of Washington Heights.
This area of New York is referred to as Little Dominican Republic.
August 2021
Bird, Phillip Officer,
Kelly Vohnn and
Michelle Johnson.
Whew.
The next four months
will bring another dozen or
so performers to the stages
around town. Compliments
of The Vegas Voice.
I do need to mention
another venue, the Library
Theaters. A couple of
Smooth Jazz Icons, Brian
Simpson and Steve Oliver,
will be headlining at
The Summerlin Library
Performing Arts Center and
The Windmill Library.
Let us not forget The Flamingo Library, Judy Bailey Theater and soon
to reopen, The Smith Center.As we always have, and will continue to
do, our mission is to bring you the best in local entertainment here in
Vegas.
Because What Happens Here, Only Happens Here!
You can read Evan’s entertainment blog and sign up to receive
his free email weekly Calendar of Events at www.EvanDavisJazz.
com. Email him at: evan@thevegasvoice.net.
In this film, Chu goes for a slightly dated Disney channel vibe
complete with a flash mob dance number. Chu may not be Latin but is
very sensitive to the themes.
Miranda’s lyrics come fast and
furious for more than two hours. The
special effects, great cinematography,
and fantastic dance routines
enhanced this spectacle.
For me, a few things stood out that
were of concern; the huge cast was
overwhelming, much of it was too
fast, and a confusion of colors on
outfits. Am I getting old?
There is Oscar buzz regarding
this movie and only time will tell.
It’s definitely worth finding it on Netflix to watch at home, or going
out to the big screen, big chairs, reserve seating, snack bar, and air
conditioning as you do the theater experience.
Renee Riendeau is the movie critic for “Renee’s Revelations”
on Anthem Alive SCA-TV. As a dog sitter she operates “ Renee’s
Roommates” out of her home and can be reached at
rriendeau@aol.com.