By ABIGAIL SNOW
Moapa Valley Progress
Audiences were whisked away to the “Golden Era” last week at the Casablanca Music Fest in Mesquite. Fans enjoyed exciting performances by Walk Like a Man, Bobby Brooks Wilson and the L.A. Cast of Beatlemania during the three-day festival.
“The turn out has been wonderful,” said Krissy Ayon, of Mesquite Gaming. “The song choices seem to really touch this audience, and that’s what makes a great experience.”
The performance on Monday night, Feb. 13, was a dynamic tribute show by Walk Like A Man. The musical act honored the great Frankie Valli and performed hits like, “Sherry Baby,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”
Tuesday’s show featured current artist, Bobby Brooks Wilson, whose performance focused on the Soul music movement. Wilson talked about his decision to follow in his father’s footsteps, the legendary Soul R&B Artist Jackie Wilson. Wilson also brought out songs from other artists such as The Temptations, Little Richard, and Stevie Wonder.
While singing “My Girl” by The Temptations, Wilson stopped and said he would need The Temptations to perform the song.
“I told the Temptations to come here tonight to sing,” he joked. “I know they are out there somewhere.”
Wilson then walked off stage and selected three different male audience members who reluctantly followed him up on stage.
“This is the second set of The Temptations,” Wilson said.
All three men proceeded to sing and dance to “My Girl” with Wilson while receiving applause and cheers from the crowd.
In a post-show interview with the PROGRESS, Wilson said he has been to Mesquite in the past for other productions. But this was first time performing his own show.
“Everybody has been nice, sincere, and good to work with here,” he said. “It’s been a blessing to be able to perform here and it was nice to come out this way.”
On Wednesday night, the audience enjoyed the re-creation of a live Beatles concert by the L.A. Cast of Beatlemania. Attention to detail played an important part with entertainers mimicking the bands’ hairstyles, clothing and musical gear.
More information of the Music Fest can be found at: https://casablancaresort.com/entertainment/mesquite-music-fest/
