Deaf character joining Las Vegas Strip musical
The groundbreaking stage show “Menopause the Musical” has been translated into nine languages.
It’s about to add a 10th.
In a first on the Strip, the Harrah’s Cabaret comedy-musical is bringing on a deaf character and adding sign language to the story line on March 7-8. Show times are 8 p.m. (Tickets available at f2fconnects.com)
Deaf actor Liz Tannebaum is guest-starring both nights, alongside cast members Vita Corimbi (Earth Mother), Jacquelyn Holland-Wright (Soap Star), Lori Legacy (Iowa Housewife), Lisa Mack (Professional Woman), and Cherity Harchis as understudy.
Cast members will communicate through an ASL (American Sign Language) interpreters, who will be positioned on stage left/house right and integrated into the dialogue. Two video panels will provide close-captioning for all scripted lines.
The services are provided by Sal Fiorentino and F2F Consulting, which works to ensure the deaf have access to all experiences in society. Las Vegas advocacy organization Sammy’s D.E.N. (Deaf Empowered Now) receives a portion of the ticket sales.
Tannebaum’s appearances are believed to be the first instances a deaf performer has ever taken on a full, scripted role in a Las Vegas show. Co-producers Alan and Kathi Glist said in a statement, “We’re honored to be connecting a hearing, deaf and hard-of-hearing audience through entertainment in this groundbreaking, meaningful, and first-of-its kind event.”
“Menopause” opened at Shimmer Cabaret at Las Vegas Hilton (Westgate Cabaret at the Westgate, today) in February 2006, moving to Luxor’s Atrium Showroom in February 2009, then to Harrah’s in February 2015. Having surpassed 7,000 performances, “Menopause” is the longest-running musical ever on the Strip.
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at jkatsilometes@reviewjournal.com. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.
