News Summary
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas has unveiled new Broadway-style marquees, known as ‘blade signs’, in an art-deco design. The installation completed a project initially delayed due to engineering costs. Each sign features an illuminated ‘SMITH’ and ‘THE SMITH CENTER’ in red LED lettering. This enhancement coincides with a celebratory event honoring a key figure in the local arts community and comes as the center prepares for an exciting holiday season lineup and future Broadway productions.
Las Vegas – The Smith Center for the Performing Arts has officially unveiled its new Broadway-style marquees, known as “blade signs,” enhancing the theater’s iconic presence. The installation of these signs was completed on Friday morning, marking a significant milestone for the venue.
The new marquees feature an art-deco design, a style that evokes the grandeur of early 20th-century American theater architecture. This elaborate design was conceptualized by venue architect David M. Schwarz, who aimed to create a visual homage to the history of theatrical signage.
The construction of the signs was carried out by YESCO, a well-known sign company based in Las Vegas. Each blade sign prominently displays a giant “SMITH,” illuminated with light bulbs, on both sides of the primary surface. Beneath this striking feature, the text “THE SMITH CENTER” is showcased in smaller red LED lettering, ensuring the venue’s name is visible from all angles.
Smith Center President Myron Martin explained that the marquee project was part of the original design for the venue. However, the installation was delayed due to high engineering costs that needed to be resolved before moving forward. The revival of the marquee installation project began roughly a year ago, culminating in this week’s unveiling.
The newly erected signs are strategically positioned near the iconic replica Vegas Vic sign, located across Promenade Place from Vic’s restaurant and jazz club, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the area.
In addition to the marquee reveal, the Smith Center recently held a celebratory event in memory of Jerry Jones, a respected figure in the Las Vegas entertainment scene. This doubleheader event took place on August 15, showcasing the community’s commitment to honoring those who have contributed to the cultural landscape of the city.
Furthermore, the Arts District has seen improvements with the refurbishment of Dennis Oppenheim-designed paintbrush sculptures. The upgrades included enhancements to their LED lighting features, although there has been mixed feedback from critics regarding the sculptures’ improved appearance.
The Smith Center has also referenced the “Mavericks,” a show that has recently gone on hiatus, lightening the mood with a humorous note on the previous invocation of a shaman to address challenges at the Paris Theater.
Looking ahead, the Smith Center is poised for a busy holiday season with an array of star-studded performances. The upcoming entertainment lineup will feature genres including jazz, Motown, burlesque, and ballet, with ticket sales set to commence on July 18.
The venue has also announced productions for its 2025-2026 Broadway Las Vegas series, which includes highly anticipated titles such as “Some Like It Hot,” “Suffs,” “The Lion King,” and “Spamalot,” among others. The lineup promises to draw local and visiting audiences alike, continuing the legacy of the Smith Center as a premier destination for performing arts in Las Vegas.
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Additional Resources
- 8 News Now
- Wikipedia: Smith Center for the Performing Arts
- Broadway World
- Google Search: Smith Center Las Vegas
- Las Vegas Weekly
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Performing Arts
- Review Journal
- Google News: Las Vegas arts
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