Liberace The Las Vegas Entertainer
Listen While You Read
Las Vegas Entertainer
Liberace was closely associated with Las Vegas and performed many shows there throughout his career.
The video above was one of his early performances in Vegas. He is playing a more classical repertoire and is dressed in more traditional concert garb. This would change over the years, as you will see below.
He had a residency at the Las Vegas Hilton from 1972 to 1976, and later performed at other venues including the Riviera Hotel and Casino, the MGM Grand, and the Las Vegas Hilton (now the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino).
“Jerome Kern wrote this song. Liberace turns into a classical masterpiece!!! I guess we won’t see the likes of Kern or Liberace anymore. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
Mr. Showmanship
Liberace's Las Vegas shows were known for their grandeur and extravagance. He would often perform on a piano covered in rhinestones and sequins and wear elaborate costumes and jewelry. His shows included a mix of popular music, classical music, and comedy, and were always accompanied by dazzling light shows and stage effects.
Below is a video from a show in 1980 which illustrates how his costumes, the stage set and his piano had changed in keeping with the times.
“Nobody ever went to Las Vegas Hotels to listen to classical music, but for decades they paid some very good money to hear this. They heard Mozart, Bach and Beethoven, Gershwin, and yes Chopsticks too. Showmanship, a charming personality, and glitter can accomplish miracles.”
A Man of The People
Liberace's shows were hugely popular in Las Vegas and drew large crowds of fans from all over the world. He was known for his warm and engaging personality, and often took time to interact with his audience and sign autographs after his shows.
Here is an example of his endearing ways of interacting with an audience asking for requests at the end of a grueling 2 hour show, just a year before he died.
“He had a reputation for being a showman, but this medley is so filled with passion, heart, and wisdom. Truly a genius.”
