fbpx

Great Ball of Fire

Levi Kreis will set Fort Lauderdale’s NSU Performance Theatre ablaze—figuratively speaking, of course—Oct. 25 when the Tony Award-winning singer/songwriter and actor appears in concert. And goodness, gracious—this guy is a fireball of talent. Best known for his uncanny portrayal of rock ’n’ roll and country music legend Jerry Lee Lewis in “Million Dollar Quartet” (for which he won the Tony for Best Featured Actor in a Musical in 2010), Kreis also has appeared in several feature films. He’s also released seven solo albums, including his most recent, “Liberated.” Kreis’ flawless vocals warm the heart, and his irresistible Southern charm lights up the soul. (And you ain’t seen nothin’ ’til he plays the piano bending over backward!) We chatted with the Tennessee native in advance of his upcoming show, “An Intimate Evening with Levi Kreis,” presented by Venetian Arts Society, where we assure you, there’ll be a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on.

You’ve often been described as “charismatic.” What does that mean to you?

I think charisma is just a genuine, humble attitude toward the audience, and if I can give you something that makes you feel good or forget your troubles for a little while, that’s awesome.

Who’s been your greatest mentor?

I’ve known (1960s chart-topping country and pop vocalist) Brenda Lee since I was 12. She took me on her tour bus when I was 13. She was just inducted into the Walk of Fame in Nashville, where I got to be reunited with her and be reminded of all the quality stuff she passed down to me.

How did it feel to win a Tony Award?

It was completely a surprise. I was dumbfounded but delivered a decent, albeit brief, acceptance speech. It’s less about the figure sitting on a bookshelf; to have that community honor your abilities is the reward.

What can audiences expect from your upcoming concert?

I always want to make my shows a place where everyone will hear something they love. Fans expect my “no holds barred” vulnerability. Of course, there will be a big chunk of “Broadway at the Keys,” which is my unique approach to Broadway favorites. They will hear some of the classics like they’ve never heard them before, and I’ll be weaving in some of my originals. I’m also a great Southern storyteller, so they’re going to get a lot of comedy in between songs.

For info and tickets for the Oct. 25 show, visit venetianartssociety.org. An additional performance has been added for Oct. 27 at Sunrise Cathedral in Fort Lauderdale. Those tickets are available at artsunitedflorida.com.

You May Also Like
W Hotel on Fort Lauderdale Beach to Host Post Tortuga Party

The Tortuga Music Festival on Fort Lauderdale Beach will bring thousands of concertgoers to the area for a weekend of live musical entertainment. The popular event is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with headliners Eric Church (Friday), Shania Twain (Saturday) and Kenny Chesney (Sunday), each performing for more than 25,000 fans. However, the party

Read More
Paws Enchanted Masquerade Ball to Benefit the Humane Society of Broward County

The annual PAWS Gala benefiting the Humane Society of Broward County occurs at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale. This year’s theme is the “Enchanted Masquerade Ball,” presented by Spirit Airlines. Chairwomen Alyse Lemstrom and Sheryl Maher and their committee have organized the event with proceeds

Read More
Dan Marino Foundation Celebrates Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month

The Dan Marino Foundation in Fort Lauderdale will celebrate the autism community with various initiatives and events during Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month throughout April. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to improving the lives of children, teens, and adults with autism. When Dan and Claire Marino created the nonprofit in 1992, the prevalence of autism

Read More
Visit Lauderdale Celebrates Broward’s Cultural Diversity

Did you know Broward County is home to a rich, vibrant tapestry of cultures, with people from more than 170 countries speaking 147 languages living here? This dynamic array of diversity is not only prevalent in every corridor of the county — it’s proudly celebrated in the attractions, festivals, and food the destination offers. And

Read More
Other Posts
Jack & Jill Center to Host Team Pouncey Bowl for Change Fundraiser

Jack & Jill Center’s Young Professionals Network will host its annual charity bowling tournament from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, at Manor Lanes in Fort Lauderdale. The Team Pouncey Bowl for Change community event will feature a day of bowling, a live DJ, arcade games, a raffle, a full bar and

Read More
Gutenburg Burger Opens at Time Out Market Miami

Gutenburg Burger, a German-American burger concept, recently debuted at Time Out Market Miami, home to chef-inspired events, arts and culture, and live entertainment. Chef Jorge Kauam launched the eatery to honor Germany’s history of high-quality beef and highlight the hamburger’s proclaimed roots in his new menu.  “Our buns are a mix of a brioche and potato

Read More
Gulfstream Park Village’s Free Cone Day Returns Next Month

Gulfstream Park Village’s popular Free Cone Day will return on Wednesday, May 17 at Häagen-Dazs. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., guests are invited to enjoy one free mini cone or cup with the ice cream flavor of their choice. Additionally, Gulfstream Park Village Center will transform into a family-friendly village carnival with free entertainment

Read More
NAMI Broward to Hold Annual Artful Minds Event in Dania Beach

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Broward County will host the Second Annual “Artful Minds” event from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 6 at MAD Arts in Dania Beach, 481 South Federal Highway. The art exhibit showcases the relationship between art and mental health through artwork in various mediums created by artists

Read More