MGM Grand announces new star of “EFX”

Lisa Snedeker

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2000 | 1:53 a.m.

LAS VEGAS - Rocker and soap opera star Rick Springfield will take the stage as the lead in MGM Grand's production show "EFX" next month, company officials announced Tuesday.

Springfield will make his debut Jan. 30, the same day his first album in 12 years, "Rick Springfield Alive - Greatest Hits Live," will be released.

"Starring in a major Las Vegas production such as 'EFX' at the MGM Grand will allow me to do what I love most - mix theater and music," Springfield said in a statement.

The Grammy and American Music Award-winning performer replaces Broadway star Tommy Tune, whose last performance in the $75 million stage production will be Jan. 13, said Richard Sturm, president of MGM Mirage Entertainment and Sports.

"The combination of 'EFX' and Rick Springfield will allow us to maximize the original success of the show with Rick's many talents and his amazing charisma on stage," Sturm said.

Springfield and the creators of "EFX" plan to infuse added elements of rock 'n' roll into the show to capitalize on the success of the rocker's 30-year career.

"I hope we'll be able to make 'EFX' more exciting and bigger with the creation of show-oriented rock music," Springfield said.

In "EFX," the star leads the audience on a journey beyond reality, exploring the worlds of the great wizard Merlin, legendary showman P.T. Barnum, illusionist Harry Houdini and time-traveling author H.G. Wells.

Springfield's hits include "Jessie's Girl," "Don't Talk to Strangers," and "Affair of the Heart."

The critically acclaimed "EFX" opened in March 1995 with "Phantom of the Opera" star Michael Crawford in the lead followed by former teen idol David Cassidy.

"The vibe in the city is so much different and healthier than before," Springfield said. "I am really looking forward to performing live in Las Vegas."