Hopper’s performance keeps ‘em guessing in new gig at Ra

Friday, May 19, 2000 | 9:02 a.m.

Performers in the "Legends in Concert" and "American Superstars" tribute shows are pure impersonators. They mimic the voices of the stars, but also strive for visual duplicity by copying mannerisms and employing lavish wardrobes, makeup and hairstyles.

By comparison, headliners such as Danny Gans, Bill Acosta and Andre-Philippe Gagnon are impressionists. The difference between Gans and an ersatz Garth Brooks is Gans' act leans heavily on vocal imitation. Props are used sparingly, even grudgingly.

So who, or what, is Jimmy Hopper?

Not sure.

Not sure he's sure, either.

A former seven-time "Star Search" champion, Hopper has leapt from the Rio's VooDoo Lounge to the comparatively spacious Showroom at Ra at the Luxor. What fans paying $38.50 (who just weeks ago could see Hopper for $10 at VooDoo) are treated to is a sample plate of recognizable tunes.

Don't like the Sinatra? Try the Santana.

Yet Hopper claims not to be an impressionist, but a singer who provides his own vocal "interpretations" of classic and contemporary songs.

By using that approach Hopper distances himself from impressionists, but it's unclear from the start just what he's trying to establish. His voice is fine, melodic and strong, but he's faced with a dilemma: He can sing like Elvis, but he doesn't want to sing like Elvis. So he settles for something in the middle, serving up "Don't Be Cruel" in a voice that was sometime his, sometime the King's.

Hopper's entire hourlong set during a show this week (an invitation-only birthday fete) wafted between imitation and originality. A medley featuring "Under My Skin" "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" and an oddly placed "People Are Strange" typified a show that was sure to produce at least one song you liked.

Seemingly at whim, Hopper would shift into impressionist mode, even taking on Stevie Wonder and Cher. He kept the audience guessing, perhaps without meaning to. If uncertainty is your thing, it was a fine show.

John Katsilometes is the Sun assistant features editor. Reach him at kats@ lasvegassun.com or 259-2327