I
’m going to stick with the circus com-
parison to introduce the multi-talented
members of Smash Hit Carnival, who in
many ways resemble big top performers
because of their sheer versatility and
showbiz charisma.
I like to think of Kevin Dodson, Smash
Hit Carnival’s founding member, drum-
mer, vocalist, impressionist, musical
director and sequence producer, as the
circus’s comedic “juggler” because of
his multitasking roles in all aspects of
the show’s highly complex presentation.
The fun loving “clown” persona has to
be awarded to supremely accurate and
innovative bassist, vocalist and senior
live sound engineer Steve Springer, who
just loves to put on whacky wigs and cu-
rious props throughout the shows whilst
laying down his rock-solid thundering
bass guitar foundations.
Thrills and spills akin to fire-eaters and
knife-throwers come courtesy of flam-
boyant power guitarist and vocalist Dirk
Swartz, who’s driving energetic presence
and true rock star appearance and atti-
tude resembles that of a “daredevil” as
he charges around the stage blasting out
his searing lead guitar parts.
Right at stage center, the title of “ring-
master” belongs to the ever-so-versatile
front vocalist Mike Hynes, who’s as-
tonishingly rapid and elaborate costume
changes, plus hilarious yet authentic
celebrity impersonations, provide an al-
most frenetic blur of spectacular showbiz
style sequences. You may well be meet-
ing the likes of Prince, Jon Bon Jovi,
Gene Simmons from KISS, Dee Snyder
from Twisted Sister, and even be invit-
ed to a musical workout with exercise
guru Richard Simmons, all portrayed by
busy Mike! This is hardly surprising,
when you discover that Mike is also an
accomplished actor who has played
many leading roles in local and regional
theater productions.
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