REVIEW: The Rat Pack Live From Vegas - Liverpool Empire Theatre

The Rat Pack is back to Liverpool Empire and this time they've bought the super talented Ella Fitzgerald with them. Playing live at the theatre from 13th February to 17th February, the crooners are bringing sensational vocals and a nostalgic trip back to the 1950's. The location: The Sands hotel in Vegas.

Tuesday night was press night and the Empire theatre was packed full of Rat Pack fans. The sensational production was a celebration of the undeniable talent of the world-famous entertainers and was a re-enactment of a night at the Sands hotel with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald and Sammy Davis Junior. Accompanied by the Burelli sisters and a magnificent big band, the show contained a plethora of songs from the performers back catalogue and it was a hit from the get go. Devised, directed and choregraphed by Mitch Sebastian and designed by Sean Cavanagh, the show is a musical tribute and extravaganza.

Garrett Phillips was absolutely exceptional as Sinatra. I closed my eyes and truly believed that it was Sinatra himself who stood before me. The vocals were phenomenal, his stage presence electrifying and his re-enactment of Sinatra's mannerisms uncannily accurate. His performance was authentic and totally convincing. The legend actually appeared at the Empire for a week of shows back in 1953, so it was a fitting tribute to the late star that this performance took place and that Phillips performed with such finesse and style. He did the role justice and was undoubtedly one of the stars of the show for me on the night. His execution was spine-tinglingly brilliant. Kudos to him.

Garrett Phillips as Sinatra

Hit followed hit including pack favourites The Lady is a Tramp, Mr Bojangles, That’s Amore, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, What Kind of Fool Am I, Volare, My Way, Everybody Loves Somebody, Night and Day, S'Wonderful, Mack The Knife and many more.

David Hayes, Garrett Phillips & Keiron Crook

Keiron Brook performed as the ever-inebriated Dean Martin and delivered vocals to a high standard. His mischievous antics were mirrored by the joviality of David Hayes as Sammy Davis Junior. His voice was deeper than I remember the star having but his delivery was fantastic and he really came into his own in the second act. The trio performed seamlessly together and the energy between them was superb. Act two was definitely my favourite. The momentum picked up and the quality of the performances reached new heights. Nicola Emmanuel joined the stage as Ella Fitzgerald and her vocals were out of this world.

This was an uplifting performance and an opportunity to witness the talent and collaboration of some of the most famous crooners from the 1950's. Regardless of your age, this will be an enjoyable show to attend. With a wonderful mix of humour, dance and stunning vocals, you will leave the theatre feeling joyous. It exceeded my expectations and was a definite hit with me.

The boys (and Ella) are back in town. Get your tickets here

Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
PR Rating 5/5