The Smith Center in Las Vegas elegantly taps into the essence of Broadway, echoing the spirit of iconic theaters through its dazzling stage productions and stunning architectural design. Recently, this beautiful venue has added a touch of Broadway glitz to its exterior with new marquees, also known as “blade signs.” The completed work, finished just last Friday, adds a vibrant flair to the building, embodying the art-deco style that defines The Smith Center.
Architect David M. Schwarz, the mind behind this iconic structure, was instrumental in the conception of these new signs. Constructed by the local expert YESCO sign company, the signs boast a colossal “SMITH” made of light bulbs that command attention from either side. Beneath this eye-catching feature, “THE SMITH CENTER” is displayed in a smaller, yet striking, red LED format. This duality of size not only emphasizes the venue’s name but also enriches the visual experience for passersby.
Smith Center President Myron Martin revealed that these marquee signs were initially part of the venue’s original blueprint but were placed on hold due to engineering costs. However, the vision was resurrected about a year ago with a renewed effort to enhance “The Heart of the Arts.” This commitment to the arts resonates through the neighborhood, where the Smith Center now stands proudly alongside the replica Vegas Vic sign, illuminating Promenade Place.
Martin, a notable Broadway enthusiast and the state’s only Tony Award voter, admires the new signs, stating, “The design detail is amazing. They are reminiscent of Broadway marquees and some early signs on the Las Vegas Strip.” This homage to theatrical flair is more than aesthetic; it enriches the cultural tapestry of Las Vegas.
In a delightful tribute to legendary artists, the Palm Restaurant at the Forum Shops at Caesars recently unveiled new caricatures of pop icon Lady Gaga and jazz legend Tony Bennett. General Manager Michael Martin is proud to showcase the duo, placed prominently above Gaga’s collaborator and bandleader Brian Newman and adjacent to none other than Frank Sinatra, the Chairman of the Board. This vibrant installation is the latest work of talented Vegas artist Erica Deutsch, enhancing the dining experience with a touch of cultural nostalgia.
Meanwhile, in the Arts District, the Dennis Oppenheim-designed paintbrush sculptures have undergone a significant refurbishing. While the updates have brightened the artworks with new LEDs, reactions remain mixed. Some local residents, including notable arts figure and historian Brian “Paco” Alvarez, critique the new designs, particularly the tips of the brushes, which no longer resemble their artistic counterparts. This highlights the ongoing dialogue about public art and its evolution within the community.
As the live entertainment scene continues to thrive, co-producer Matt Franzetti recently referenced the infamous “shaman” incident at the Paris Theater during the “Bat Out of Hell” show, expressing a hopeful sentiment for the return of “Mavericks” after its hiatus. This inside joke amongst theater aficionados underscores the whimsical yet serious nature of maintaining successful performances in Las Vegas.
In the spirit of camaraderie and community appreciation, a “Cool Hang Alert” event is set to take place, honoring the late Jerry Jones, a beloved figure in the Las Vegas entertainment scene. Known for inspiring moments of laughter and joy, Jones’ legacy will be celebrated with a doubleheader of events on August 15. The gathering kicks off with a celebration of life at The Copa at Bootlegger Bistro, followed by a lively show at Piazza at Tuscany. These events promise good music and harmony, perfectly aligning with the vibrancy of the city’s nightlife. Admission is free, underscoring the community’s dedication to coming together in remembrance.
This cultural heartbeat of Las Vegas shows no signs of slowing down. As The Smith Center stands illuminated, it not only showcases Broadway’s charm but also revitalizes the local arts scene, fostering connections that celebrate both legacy and innovation.
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at jkatsilometes@reviewjournal.com. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.