The Rat Pack – Live from Las Vegas (Tour – Leicester)

They’ve all been dead since the last century but their legacy lives on. And in the hands of this seemingly endless tour, it looks assured for some time to come.

This tribute to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr started life in 2000 and has been pretty much permanently on the go since then, including several record-breaking runs at West End theatres.

The present incumbents of the roles – Stephen Triffitt, Mark Adams and George Long respectively – first stepped into the shiny shoes together back in 2003, and their longevity gives them a comfortable, relaxed camaraderie on stage.

Adams and Long are perhaps less convincing as facsimiles, but the interplay of the three as they recreate one of those legendary nights at the Sands Hotel in the late 50s or early 60s is palpably warm and funny.

Triffitt, as always, is extraordinary as Sinatra. Not only does he have the voice down, but the look, the mannerisms and the sheer charisma of the man are honed to perfection, and his performance is joyful.

Director Mitch Sebastian and musical supremo Matthew Freeman have worked magic on staging the show, which is much more than simply a collection of songs or a tribute act. This is a full-blown production, and the 12-piece live swing band under Dominic Barlow add a stunning dimension to the proceedings.

There are too many iconic songs to list, but it’s guaranteed there’ll be no disappointment for fans of any of the three Rat Packers. Individually, these guys entertain brilliantly. Combined, they’re a tour de force.

MICHAEL DAVIES

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