Danny Gans rehearsing new production for redecorated theater

Danny Gans isn't wasting time as he prepares to relaunch his impressions in a rebranded and redecorated theater.

A few days after closing at The Mirage on Nov. 22, Gans was under the knife for shoulder surgery. Now he's not only rehearsing a new production for Encore, but recording vocals for a new album in which he sings all but one song in his own voice, says his manager, Chip Lightman.

Gans won't be in a new venue, but the 1,500-seat theater has undergone more than $3 million in remodeling since "Spamalot" closed in July.

The once-blue theater seats are now upholstered in red, and the carpet has been replaced along with the promotional decor in the lobby and entryway. A hallway which once dead-ended at the theater lobby now connects the original property to Encore.

Gans also will be branded with Encore by his presence on a new outdoor sign.

Lightman says the show will have a new set and more stage production than the bandstand set at The Mirage and will utilize the flyloft built to accommodate the backdrops of previous musicals.

Gans opens with a charity benefit (with tickets sold to the public) on Feb. 6, before regular shows begin Feb. 10. He will do four shows each week, 44 weeks per year. Steve Wynn has said he will book other acts into the theater around Gans' schedule, but none has been announced to date.

Contact reporter Mike Weatherford at mweatherford@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0288.