Marcia Thomas/Contributing Writer
Jefferson’s busy little community theatre, the Opera House Theatre Players, will kickoff the new 36th season on Saturday, August 31, with a true Las Vegas style evening entitled “Sinatra and Champagne”.
Presented as a way to encourage new memberships and renew old ones, the show features the entertainer who looks and sounds most like the late great Frank Sinatra then anybody else, Brian Duprey.
Duprey has been portraying Sinatra for a good many years and got his first big break on Fox TVs hit reality show “Performing As”, where he won the top prize by portraying his idol, Frank Sinatra. As an actor in the hit musical “The Rat Pack is Back”, Duprey spent a decade perfecting his craft and elevated the standard of tribute shows in the vein of “Jersey Boys”. His lead role and creative development of the show built a 48 state tour, repeat bookings, and secured the title of Best Tribute Show of Las Vegas in 2014 He’s performed in over 200 Performing Arts Theatres and Casinos across the country generating sold-out performances and rave reviews from fans and critics alike.
Film credits includes “Get Him To The Greek” as well as the hit TV show “CSI Las Vegas”. He’s opened for Paul Anka and has performed for the likes of Steve Wynn and the entire cast of HBO’s “The Sopranos”
According to Nancy Sinatra, daughter of Frank, “He’s got it down!” With breathtaking stage charisma, sparkling blue eyes, and a velvet baritone voice, Brian Duprey truly inhabits Frank Sinatra, so enjoy an unforgettable evening when he takes you on a musical journey through some of the crooner’s iconic hits like “Fly Me To The Moon”, “New York, New York”, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” and many more.
The fund-raising gala will be held at the Union Baptist Church Event Building on Houston Street in Jefferson beginning 7 pm. Following the performance, Duprey will meet and greet audience members as they sip champagne and nibble delicious snacks.
Tickets are priced at $25 per person and can be obtained by calling 903-665-8243 and, provided space is available, at the door. Due to limited seating however, early purchases are recommended.
Memberships to the theatre group will also be taken during the evening.