Holiday version of "Legends in Concert" features Michael Jackson!

by **Admin** Fri Dec 13, 2013 1:52 pm

Holiday version of "Legends in Concert" features Michael Jackson!
By Lori Hoffman

Dec. 13, 2013

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

The tribute show Legends in Concert has been around for 30 years because of its consistent ability to find exceptionally talented artists to pay homage to legendary performers. It has remained relevant by constantly seeking to expand its universe with tributes to newer artists.

The latest holiday version of Legends in Concert at Bally’s is a perfect example of this philosophy. The current cast features tributes to Michael Jackson, Johnny Cash, The Blues Brothers, Adele and Elvis, with Justin Timberlake scheduled to join the show beginning Dec. 19.

Kicking off the evening in moon walking fashion was Brandon Jones making a dynamic entrance with the Michael Jackson hit “Wanna Be Starting Something.” He continued his set with “Jam, “Black and White” and the first holiday tune of the evening “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” With the excellent four-piece band and the Legends troupe of dancers giving the stage a concert atmosphere, Jones finished off his tribute with a rousing “Billie Jean.”

Paul Eve is making his Atlantic City debut with his Johnny Cash tribute. It is uncanny how much he looks like “The Man in Black” and his superb vocals add to the illusion. Eve’s set began with the perfect choice to unleash the Johnny Cash ambience, “Folsom Prison Blues.” Next up was a gospel favorite, “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” then Eve’s holiday contribution, “Jingle Bells.” He ended his set with a signature song written by June Carter Cash, “The Ring of Fire.”

Eric Martin and Carmen Romano as the Blues Brothers bring a mix of soul music and comedy asides to the party, in particular their TV theme song medley featuring the music from Green Acres, The Beverly Hillbillies and Rawhide. When he isn’t doing his white boy dance antics Martin plays a mean harmonica, backing up the engaging lead vocals of Romano on such classics as “Soul Man” and “Flip, Flop & Fly.” Their holiday contribution was a delightful medley of “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” and “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus.”

J.C. Brando was an audience favorite with her powerful Adele tribute. She opened with her James Bond theme “Skyfall,” followed by the signature hit “Rolling in the Deep.” Brando not only has the chops to pull off an Adele tribute, she also pulls off her speaking voice as she talks to the audience with a British accent that’s jolly good. Her holiday contribution was a lovely “Silent Night,” and she ended her set with “Set Fire to the Rain” and “Rumor Has It.”

Video: [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Legends in Concert Holiday Show Now to Dec. 31, Legends in Concert Theater, Bally’s Sun. 8pm; Tues. 8pm; Wed. 3 & 8pm; Thurs, Fri. 8pm; Sat. 7:30 & 10pm $32.50; $16.25 for children 3-16