I previously saw Emmy-award winning actor, television sit-com comedian Brad Garrett when he appeared in the MGM Mirage’s large show room and now was invited to the opening week of Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, at the Tropicana Hotel. Brad was so happy to finally have his own club, it had been a dream which finally came true. He surprised the audience by coming out before the show for an informal, short welcome chat with a few jokes added as a preview of his act.

Brad Garrett, the television sitcom star, is quite different from Brad Garrett, the stand- up comedian. We enjoyed Brad as the lovable big brother, Robert Barone, in “Everybody Loves Raymond” and starring in his own “‘Til’ Death” television series, but when I saw him “on stage” for the first time, it was surprising.

The audience sees the OTHER Brad Garrett at his live shows. Brad still has those lovable qualities which helped him succeed, but there is so much more! He has a chance to use all of his talents live on stage in the comedy act! We realize the depth of Brad’s talents when he suddenly switches from one exaggerated accent to another. His repertoire seems endless, just as we start laughing, Brad begins another impression. Every religion, ethnic group, and nationality is fair game for him.

Brad’s insults reminded me of a young Don Rickles, after he insulted members of the audience Brad explained, “I am not really like this. It is all in fun! With an uncanny skill for pleasing audiences, Brad involves them. There is a spirit of freedom, that the audience can yell their questions and expressions of their appreciation to him during the show. In the intimate atmosphere of his new comedy club, he can interact with more people in the audience and the audience feels a part of the show. You will not miss anything! WARNING, do not sit in the front rows or leave your seat during the show or you will become his target! As a Las Vegas reviewer for 29 years, I learned this early in my career.

Brad uses facial expressions and gestures, acts out some of his shticks, maybe adds a little dance step, and throws himself into his routines. Refreshingly original and upbeat, Brad Garrett has excelled as a stand- up comedian headlining around the United States as well as having appeared with Frank Sinatra, David Copperfield, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, Sammy Davis, Jr., the Beach Boys, and Julio Iglesias. He was nominated three times for his role in “Everybody Loves Raymond” and won Emmy Awards (2002 and 2003) for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy. Brad also received the 2003 Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. Brad’s multi-talents are evidenced in his voice-over work- the roles of Fatso the ghost in the 1995 feature “Casper,” Dim the rhinoceros beetle in “A Bug’s Life,” and Bloat the blowfish in “Finding Nemo.” He also appeared in “Don King: Only in America,” “George B,” which was a finalist at the 1997 Sundance Film Festival, “Suicide Kings,” “Clubland,” and “Sweet and Lowdown.” Garrett has guest-hosted the “Late Show” for a sidelined David Letterman.

Don’t miss the line-up of great established and hot new stand-up comedians at Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, in the Tropicana Hotel! Enjoy the special 2-for-1 Tuesdays. Shows are scheduled seven nights a week, from Sunday-Thursday at 8 pm, with two shows on Friday and Saturday, at 8 & 10 pm.

Sandy Zimmerman

Sandy Zimmerman is a Syndicated Features Columnist with articles published in Japan, Dubai, England, Columbia, and other countries around the world as well as in the United States.

She is a Talk Show Host of the “Las Vegas Today Show” programs taped “on location” in Las Vegas, and “Discover the Ultimate Vacation” travel specials taped “on location” around the world.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact: sandyzimm2003@yahoo.com