Smith Center Blog

4/13/2017

Supporting the Arts

Vegas Couple Finds Peace of Mind with Planned Giving

When Las Vegas resident Judy and her husband Ben decided they wanted to leave their resources in a trust to something they believe in, it wasn’t initially obvious what that would be. That is, until they went to Branford Marsalis’ show at The Smith Center, and witnessed local students brought in for a special visit with the iconic musician.

4/12/2017

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.

3/15/2017

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.

2/4/2017

Performances and Artists

The Intensive Training for Taiko

It’s 5 a.m., and time for a 5k run, back and forth along a steep incline. Next comes preparing a meal from scratch. Beyond that stretches a long day packed with training regimens. Just the start of another day for those in training to join the Taiko drumming group Kodo. Says spokesperson Yui Kawamoto, “All the performers go through this basic training.”

1/11/2017

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.

12/29/2016

Discovering The Smith Center / Inside the Theater

The Man Behind the Curtain: How The Smith Center Books Its Shows

Tasked with booking all non-Broadway shows and concerts at The Smith Center, Glenn Medas hears a lot of suggestions. He welcomes them all, but with no promises. That’s because many factors impact what fits best in The Smith Center’s three theaters.

12/13/2016

Supporting the Arts / Community Impact

From Dust Bowl Farmer to Community Leader: Smith Center Founder Selma Bartlett

Selma Bartlett has helped Southern Nevada grow as a community leader. As the community grew through the years, however, Bartlett saw a lack of local entertainment for all ages. That’s why she didn’t hesitate when Don Snyder, chairman of The Smith Center board, asked her to donate in support of constructing the world-class performing arts center.