The musical revue style is something that Stage West has absolutely mastered. Often a highlight of the season are there themed shows (this Christmas season will feature a movie theme which I am really excited to see.) In Legends of Rock N’ Roll – playing until September 4th - Stage West changes the format (or in some ways revisits – Legends is a restaging of a show going back 23 years) in focusing on 4 iconic performers – Buddy Holly, Neil Diamond, Tom Jones and Elvis Presley.

The show is at its core a tribute concert, and a well done one. Each artist gets their own segment kicking off with Buddy Holly. Al Braatz nails Holly’s distinctive mannerisms and voice. It is probably the most dead on of the four performers in terms of overall package. Timeless songs like Peggy Sue, It Doesn’t Matter, and Oh Boy gives an immediate idea of what the night will be. Recognizable song after song.

Gaelen Beatty’s portrayal of Neil Diamond is less an impersonation and more a tribute. Diamond is still touring and I’ve seen him live – unlike others in the show that can only be seen in film – and Beatty doesn’t sound entirely like Diamond but captures the energy and personality. Another strong set with a lot of familiar songs, Sweet Caroline proved to be the sing along it always is.

After an intermission and visit to the incredible dessert buffet, the show resumed with Tom Jones, portrayed by Luke Marty. Jones is an artist whose appeal never made sense to me. Why women were compelled to throw underwear on stage, the sexy persona, I didn’t get it. If Marty’s performance is an accurate portrayal of Jones in his prime then the mystery is a little clearer. From the insanely tight pants to multiple thrusts of both front and behind, and songs like What’s New Pussycat? is campy and entertaining.

The final set of the show is of course dedicated to the King, Elvis Presley. Matthew Lawrence’s experience as an Elvis impersonator is clear, as his mannerisms, talking style, and voice are bang on. Not surprisingly it is the longest set as well. Presley has so many classics that it would be impossible to do them all but it’s a well thought out mix of upbeat songs like Viva Las Vegas and Burning Love with ballads like Love Me Tender. Lawrence walking through the audience singing Can’t Help Fallin’ In Love is one of the highlights, especially if you are lucky enough to get serenaded directly.

While the show does focus on the four main acts, backup singers Chelsey Duplak and Tiera Watts are the glue that holds the singing aspect of the show together. They are on stage the entire night singing and dancing and interacting with the guys and clearly having fun. They get a chance to shine solo during Amazing Grace which was beautifully delivered. The always excellent band – bassist Rob Vause, guitarist Brad Steckel, drummer Jeff Fafard and musical director and keyboardist Konrad Pluta deliver as always. Musicals have become a big part of the Stage West roster and knowing these guys are either on stage or in the music room means you know you will get quality musicianship.

Legends of Rock N’ Roll is aimed at a specific audience – those that have grown up with these 4 iconic artists. That has nothing to do with age, you’d still have to have grown up under a rock to not know who Neil Diamond and Elvis are. Fans of any of the 4 will enjoy the show. The talent on stage is excellent, the songs will bring back memories and make new ones. It’s a great lead in to Million Dollar Quarter which opens September 9th.