Louis & Keely: Live at the Sahara to End Long Run at L.A.'s Geffen Nov. 8

By Ernio Hernandez
27 Oct 2009

Vanessa Claire Smith and Jake Broder
Vanessa Claire Smith and Jake Broder
Photo by Michael Lamont

Louis & Keely: Live at the Sahara, which has enjoyed an extended, eight-month run at Geffen Playhouse's Audrey Skirball Theater, will end Nov. 8 in Los Angeles.

The biographical musical about Vegas entertainers Keely Smith and Louis Prima began performances March 15 and opened March 19. Hollywood director Taylor Hackford staged the work for this run.

Created by Jake Broder and Vanessa Claire Smith, the current production of Louis & Keely Live at the Sahara is a revamped version of Broder and Smith's 2008 show. The show's future—which may include a tour—is currently in the works.

"The development of this show has been a beautiful work in progress, and the eight-month Geffen Playhouse run was a crucial step in the process," said producer Sarabeth Schedeen. "Jake and Vanessa are currently rewriting the script while also exploring possible directors to help us continue our journey. We're all excited about the future of this production. We look forward to growing the Louis & Keely family beyond Los Angeles, and we're grateful to the Geffen for providing us the home to develop the work."

The show just garnered five L.A. Ovation Award nominations for stars Smith (Leading Actress in a Musical) and Broder (Leading Actor in a Musical), designers Anne Militello (lighting) and Lindsay Jones (sound) as well as for Production of a Musical - Large Theatre. A cast album of th show is available on the website louiskeelyshow.com.



Nick Cagle and Erin Matthews play various other characters in the couple's story. In addition to the four actors, Louis & Keely Live at the Sahara features a seven-piece live jazz band, subbing as Louis Prima's Vegas band The Witnesses.

The creative team also includes choreographer Vernel Bagneris, set and projection designer Joel Daavid, costume designer Melissa Bruning and production stage manager Young Ji.

For more information, visit geffenplayhouse.com or call (310) 208-5454 or (213) 480-3232.