Ed Matthews’ “Independence Day” Show, at the Suncoast, exemplified the meaning of the 4th of July on so many levels, the perfect entertainment to remind everyone of the importance of the day.
There were songs about America, WWII era soldier’s songs, “Welcome to America”, and so many more of the most patriotic songs with hope for the future. Watching this show brightened the day and brought the feeling that the 4th of July was much more than BBQ parties and fireworks.
And what a great cast of around 12 entertainers
with names known around Las Vegas- Lou De Meis, Jay Joseph, Autumn Johnson, Joey Spinella, Naree Asherian, Izzy Baker, Candi Caroline & The Spotlight Dancers! (BAND: Bill Fayne, Nanette Fortier, Frank Fabio, and Matt Baldoni.)
Singer/songwriter Lou De Meis’ had a long career ranging from appearing in Barry Manilow presents Copacabana with several other parts in Cabaret, Dracula, and Chicago. His professional work in Las Vegas included LES MIZ, CABARET, Guys & Dolls, My Fair Lady, and even as back-up singer for Barbra Streisand.
Operatic singer Joey Spinella has a powerful voice and vocal range, his Tribute to Pavarotti is unrivaled! After being trained at the prestigious Metropolitan Opera in New York, Joey taught and had recently been chosen for the role of the singing ‘Don Popera’ in “The Mob Story” at the Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas as well as appearances at the Suncoast wowed audiences with standing ovations.
The team of six Spotlight Dancers dressed in red, white and blue added their exciting chorography to highlight the songs.
The well-known musical director Bill Fayne has been involved with more than 50 musical theater productions, operas, and T. V. shows over the past 30 years. He has appeared as a guest conductor with the Atlanta, Columbus, Delaware, and the Buffalo’s symphony orchestras.
As an arranger, Bill has worked with Clint Holmes, Suzanne Sommers, Gloria Loring, Ann Jillian, Hal Linden, Mickey Rooney, and Kathie Lee Gifford. On television, Bill was on various Bob Hope Specials, Dick Clark Productions, The Tonight Show, The Joan Rivers’ Show, among others.
His musical association with Clint Holmes spans 33 years.
In the past few years, Bill has written theme songs for television shows, including the NBC series “Jennifer Slept Here” and “Ann Jillian”. He has composed music and written special material for the stage and for television.
Sandy Zimmerman produces television programs, documentaries, and travel specials around the world- in Beijing and on the Yangtze River Cruise in China, and in addition to travel specials in Italy and other countries as well as for Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon North Rim National Park, a real Cattle Drive similar to the early westerns in Reno, Nevada, and other destinations in the US.
With 20 years’ experience as a syndicated Show and Dining Reviewer, Travel/ Luxury writer, Health, as well as a Photographer/ Videographer, Editor, and Talk Show Host of Sandy Zimmerman’s
Las Vegas TV Show and Discover the Ultimate Vacation travel specials.
For information, questions, interviews, or comments, please contact Sandy Zimmerman at- sandyzimm2003@yahoo.com 702-515-0846.
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