By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Scottsdale residents Leah and Sam Katz put it bluntly: They’re big fans of Simon and Garfunkel.
So far bringing “Beyond Van Gogh” and “Beyond King Tut” to venues, they are celebrating their love of the legendary musical duo to the Orpheum with “The Simon & Garfunkel Story.”
Called “immersive” as well, “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” hits the stage on Friday, January 27, and Saturday, January 28.
“They’re icons in the music industry,” Sam says. “They’ve sold over 100 million albums. This is a great opportunity to really see the story of how they evolved, became who they are, why they wrote certain songs, and listen to the songs with two great performers.”
Starring acclaimed performers Jonah Bobo and Brandan Jacob Smith, the show features state-of-the-art projections along with original film footage and a full live band performing all the hits, including “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecilia,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Homeward Bound.”
“The Simon & Garfunkel Story,” which has been experienced in 50 countries worldwide, sold out London’s West End. The producer is the couple’s good friend.
Sam grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, but as the owner of minor league baseball teams — Winnipeg Goldeyes and the Ottawa Titans — he has visited Scottsdale during Spring Training. Eventually, he and Leah bought a home in Scottsdale, from which they run Nite Out Entertainment.
“The show really spoke to Sam when he had the opportunity to see it,” Leah says. “We’ve always loved Simon and Garfunkel, and we felt it was a really good fit for the market here.
“They’ll see original sound footage and taken back to that moment in time. They are such an iconic folk-rock duo. I am in a different generation, and their music speaks to me. I know I am not alone in that.”
“The Simon & Garfunkel Story”
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 27; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, January 28
WHERE: Orpheum, 203 W. Adams Street, Phoenix
COST: Tickets start at $50
INFO: 602-262-7272, pccticketing.com
