Smith Center Blog

Community Impact / Broadway Las Vegas

Vegas Resident’s Family Part of True Story Portrayed in Broadway Musical

When Simon Robinson’s family booked a flight for Sept. 11, 2001 to visit him in Florida from their home in England, he was nothing but elated. Simon and his wife Sarah — now both Las Vegas residents — highly anticipated their family’s visit, as the couple had only recently moved to America from their native England. This incredible true story is captured in the acclaimed Broadway musical “Come From Away."

Broadway Las Vegas / Performances and Artists

Surprising Facts About Broadway Musical ‘The Lion King’

Most families and musical fans are more than familiar with the thrilling storyline of hit Disney film “The Lion King” – but they may not know everything about “The Lion King” the smash Broadway production, which brings this beloved story to life with eye-popping puppets, lavish sets and vibrant costuming.

Broadway Las Vegas / Community Impact

See Two Las Vegas Girls Perform in Broadway Musical ‘Waitress’

Two talented, Las Vegas 5-year-olds have been chosen to play a role in Broadway musical “Waitress” during its engagement at The Smith Center – and both girls are just the latest in their families of performers to take the spotlight. The “Waitress” tour has selected Adelaide Babcock and Melina Biltz to play the child role of Lulu.

Broadway Las Vegas / Performances and Artists

How Writer of Broadway Musical ‘Waitress’ Made History with Sara Bareilles

A trusting collaboration was instant and “egoless” between the creative team of Nelson, Bareilles, Paulus and choreographer Lorin Latarro, "Waitress" writer Jessie NelsonNelson says. While the foursome didn’t realize it right away, they comprised the first all-female creative team in Broadway history.

Broadway Las Vegas / Community Impact

Mother of Four Wins Free Tickets to The Smith Center’s 2018-19 Broadway Season

Admiring the view from the Row B parterre box in Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center, Sarah Iwamuro said she had never sat so close to the stage. “This is incredible,” said the Las Vegas resident and mother of four. Sarah was the randomly selected winner of The Smith Center’s drawing for two free tickets to all 10 shows of the 2018-2019 Broadway season.

Broadway Las Vegas / Performances and Artists

Inside the Music of 'The Phantom of the Opera'

“After we play the exit music, invariably 100 people hang out for the entire play-out,” says Jamie Johns, maestro for the show’s national tour. “They have huge smiles on their faces and they’re staring into the pit, wanting to see how it’s done and ask us questions.” He isn’t surprised. The music of “Phantom” has driven the show’s popularity for nearly 30 years.

Broadway Las Vegas / Performances and Artists

80 Years in the Making: The Music and Dance of 'An American in Paris'

Adapting a beloved film for the stage can be deceptively challenging — especially if it’s a classic movie like “An American in Paris” starring Hollywood icon Gene Kelly with timeless songs by Ira and George Gershwin. The creative team for this Broadway show knew the stage version must shine on its own terms.

Broadway Las Vegas

Motown’s Finishing School

The music of Motown has entertained Americans for generations, but many fans might not know the intriguing history of the famous record company. Broadway smash “Motown: The Musical,” headed to The Smith Center in mid-January, delves into many of these untold stories.

Performances and Artists / Broadway Las Vegas

Telling the Carole King Story

Adapting stage productions from novels and films has proved daunting for many a pressured writer. Compiling a Broadway musical from an iconic artist’s life and full body of work, however, is an entirely different beast.

Performances and Artists / Broadway Las Vegas

Mamma Mia! Jen Perry Going From Kinky Boots to Idaho!

Jen Perry, locally known for starring in Mamma Mia! at Mandalay Bay and performing in Kinky Boots on Broadway, will return to her Las Vegas roots in IDAHO! The Comedy Musical.