'Swingin’ Las Vegas' delivers a dazzling journey through decades of Sin City glam

Timothy Moloi, Craig Urbani, Adam Howard, Nadine, and Harry Sideropoulos: Picture: Supplied

Montecasino’s Teatro exploded with sound, sparkle, and showbiz magic on Friday night as Swingin’ Las Vegas made its grand return, bigger, brighter, bolder, and more dazzling than ever.

Swingin’ Las Vegas 2025 isn’t just a musical showcase; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the legends of Las Vegas, past and present. This glittering celebration is brought to life by a star-studded quartet: Craig Urbani, Timothy Moloi, Nadine, and Harry Sideropoulos, backed by the powerhouse 18-piece Johannesburg Big Band under the direction of maestro Adam Howard.

From the opening fanfare to the final bow, the audience was transported through decades of iconic Vegas showmanship, punctuated by some of the greatest songs ever written and performed in Sin City. The setlist is a glittering roll call that includes Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Celine Dion, Elton John, Ella Fitzgerald, Lionel Ritchie and Lady Gaga.

“It’s the epitome of glam, glitter, excitement, musicality, and great songs.”

Whether you were part of the magic last year or you're new to the Swingin’ Las Vegas phenomenon like we were, 2025 is the year to experience it. This is more than a concert, it's a complete Vegas experience, overflowing with nostalgia, rhythm, glitz, soul and some.

Returning to Swingin’ Las Vegas 2025 was a no-brainer for Craig Urbani, who found last year’s show not only enjoyable but a true career highlight that exceeded every expectation. 

Urbani, the effortlessly charismatic performer, was smooth and captivating. One moment he was belting out Luck Be A Lady like a true Rat Pack legend, the next he was delivering a hauntingly beautiful duet of Shallow with Nadine.

“This is my Sky Masterson moment,” said Urbani.

With this year's line-up boasting world-class musicians, an exceptionally talented cast, and a Joburg audience eager for a good time, Urbani is confident that the 2025 edition is set to be nothing short of unforgettable.

“This year, these musicians, coupled with the kindest, most talented and incredible performers and a Joburg audience that has come out ready to have the time of their lives, will make this year’s Swingin’ Las Vegas 2025 something ....well.....” unforgettable!”

Urbani’s chemistry with Harry Sideropoulos lit up the stage like a Vegas jackpot. 

“Last year we tore it up with Me and My Shadow, but this year we’re going to blow the roof off,” expressed Sideropoulos.

For Sideropoulos, returning to the Swingin’ Las Vegas stage feels like a joyful homecoming, bursting with energy, connection, and shared passion. He’s especially thrilled to once again perform alongside the powerhouse Johannesburg Big Band, calling the experience “truly unbeatable.” 

The thrill of performing at the iconic Teatro, paired with the laughter-filled bond he shares with fellow stars Moloi and Urbani, makes it all the more special. With Nadine joining the mix this year, Sideropoulos promises a show bursting with personality, powerhouse vocals, and pure “swingin fun”.

And then there’s Timothy Moloi, the velvet-voiced baritone whose command of the stage is nothing short of regal. His interpretation of Hello (yes, Lionel Richie’s classic) had people gasping mid-verse. 

“Every song in this show is a hit,” said Moloi. “But I’m especially excited about Sway, which I’ll be singing with Nadine, Craig, Harry and the Johannesburg Big Band. And this song really showcases the band in a great way.”

And he wasn’t wrong. Their harmonies on Sway were silk-smooth, oozing charm, rhythm, and class.

Adding an extra dose of glamour to this year’s lineup is the radiant Nadine, whose stage presence and powerhouse vocals brought a fresh sparkle to the night. Dressed to dazzle and sounding every bit like a diva worthy of Vegas, she delivered a stirring rendition of Unforgettable alongside Moloi, a duet that became one of the evening’s most heartfelt moments.

“I’m so excited to be a part of this show! It’s the epitome of glam, glitter, excitement, musicality, and great songs,” shared Nadine.

But it was her solo performance of It’s All Coming Back to Me Now, a true showstopper that brought the house down and left the crowd roaring for more.

Craig Urbani, Nadine, Adam Howard, Harry Sideropoulos and Timothy Moloi. Picture: Lauge Sorensen

As musical director Howard explains, curating the show’s setlist is no small feat. The process begins months in advance, with an initial pool of 60 to 70 songs. The team carefully selects tracks that trace the legacy of Vegas entertainment through the decades, from the golden era of Sinatra and the Rat Pack to the chart-toppers of today.

“Swingin’ Las Vegas 2025 pays homage to all the stars that made Vegas - Vegas! From Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, to modern-day stars such as Céline Dion, Robbie Williams, Michael Bublé, Oasis, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Lionel Richie and more,” said Howard.

Returning audiences can expect a brand-new experience with a fresh setlist and even more classic hits. With the top-tier Johannesburg Big Band, dazzling lights, and a sleek stage design, this show delivers world-class entertainment and unforgettable nostalgia.

“Whilst the name of the show is the same, we have a brand new setlist, so if you enjoyed the musical journey we took you on last year, you won’t be disappointed," added Howard.

Catch Swingin’ Las Vegas 2025, currently staging at The Teatro, Montecasino, Fourways, until May 25.

Tickets are available at Webtickets from R240.