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 By Dave Rosen
Danish comedian Tom Dane didn’t just bring an excellent band and an amazing
voice to the Suncoast Hotel… He brought around 20 voices.
The highly regarded Dane is a singer, impressionist, musician, comedian, tap
dancer, and whatever else he wants to be during any given night. Known mainly
for his impressions that range from singers like Frank Sinatra, Tina Turner, and
Tom Jones to characters like Alfred Hitchcock, Yogi the Bear, and the Crocodile
Hunter, it’s no doubt that this guy has got the goods. Equally impressive is his
band who delivered spot on renditions of the songs he performed, as well as a
few extra comedy bits.
His show has received numerous praises overseas, including multiple requests by
the Danish Royal Family. His press release calls him a “genius,” and while I
wouldn’t go that far, it’s easy to see why so many love what he does.
The most laughs came from the big, upbeat songs from artists such as Tina Turner
and Tom Jones, replacing lyrics with clever parodies poking fun at the artist.
One of the slower standouts was a truly random duet between Nat King Cole and
Donald Duck singing “Unforgettable,” a song who’s name he had trouble
remembering. My favorite moment of the show was the closer, in which he
performed Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York.” Before starting, he explained
that he had learned the tune as a kid, listening to his vinyl record of the song
over and over again, learning every bit of the words – the only problem was the
record had some scratches. Use your imagination.
While the music was still great during the slow parts, it caused the show to die
down a little. The blues pieces that filled the beginning of the show were
excellent performances, but the comedy didn’t really kick in until half way
through the show once the good soul and rock & roll got started. Perhaps future
shows could feature more of the upbeat to keep things moving.
One thing I couldn’t help but think, is while I wouldn’t want to demote Dane’s
talent to a lounge act, I do think a venue where half the crowd could get up and
dance and mingle, while the rest take seats would work much better for his show.
It worked for The Spazmatics, who used to play in the same showroom, with the
dance floor packed with people partying and dancing, and with a little more
emphasis on the upbeat, I think it would work for Dane too.
Dane is a talented performer, and if one thing is for sure, he’s got guts. First
of all he moved everything from Scandinavia where he was already a huge star
and, as per his press release, “the highest paid entertainer (in the country),”
just for a chance at having a big Las Vegas show. Secondly, and more
importantly, he staged that opening show opposite The Comedy Festival. He’s
basically taking his big shot while going up against dozens of high profile
American comedy stars.
Luckily, it seemed to have paid off, as the opening performance was sold out,
and by the looks of it, the second night will be too, hopefully leading to more
chances to catch Dane’s act. Check out his website at
www.tomdaneshow.com for more
info.
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