In the title sequence of The Patty Duke Show, which ran on ABC from 1963-1966, the catchy theme song describes the sitcom’s two main characters: But they’re cousins / Identical cousins and you’ll find / They laugh alike, they walk alike / At times they even talk alike
Duke famously played the role of both cousins.
Transition to the “American Superstars” tribute show at Stratosphere Las Vegas where five talented performers assume the identities of Elvis, Brittany Spears, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood and Michael Jackson. When these performers take the stage, they seamlessly channel the individuals they’re emulating, much like identical cousins. No only do they sing alike but they match the original so perfectly, one might believe they share the same DNA.
For example, Elvis tribute artist “Darin” took top honors at the World Elvis Competition. His swinging hips and gyrations recall the King’s Vegas performances. “Viva Las Vegas,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and Burnin’ Love” are high-energy, leg-busting, duplicates of the real thing, complete with pompadour, lip snarl, and sweaty silk neckerchief.
“Abby” brings sexy back in her rendition of Brittany Spears, dominating the stage with six songs from the Spears hit list and ample amounts of intensity. She pulls off multiple costume changes in her set, but the tension remains high, thanks to the equally sexy American Superstars Dancers who keep the beat going.
Tim McGraw, embodied by handsome tribute artist “Chad,” belts out four hits with all the country twang of the original dressed from boot to Stetson in Johnny Cash black. When a stool appears on stage, he gets philosophical with “Live Like You Were Dying.” Country artists have a way with words.
“Felice” took on a jaw dropping performance of Carrie Underwood, captivating the audience with her blonde mane as she crooned hits like “Last Name” and “All American Girl.” But with a performer who sounds and looks so good, it’s hard to focus on the entire set list. I’m relieved she’s not my cousin; staying cool in her presence would be quite a challenge.
But on this night, it was Michael Jackson tribute artist “Frederick” who stole the spotlight. Frederick, a newcomer to the American Superstar tribute artist scene, gave a stellar performance. The audience was on its feet in blissful reverie, albeit still in shock over the loss of Michael. He gave the audience “Jam,” “Billie Jean,” and “Beat it” before delivering a personal tribute to the late King of Pop.Frederick helped soothe their pain by celebrating MJ’s music and artistry.
“I’ve toured fourteen different countries as Michael Jackson,” he said. “I have much love and respect for Michael. I’d like to applaud him tonight. Michael will live forever. Can I get an amen?”
American Superstars excels in delivering superb entertainment. The four-member American Superstars Band plays covers with exceptional ability, while the sexy American Superstars Dancers don’t miss a choreographed step. The six-hundred, forty-eight-seat “Theater of the Stars” boasts a modern venue with a technologically advanced sound and lighting system, including two concert-sized video screens. Multi-camera switching ensures the live performance a show in its own right.
Overall, these performing cousins are one-of-a-kind.