Duykers entertaining Ivano's diners

SANDPOINT — Bruce Duykers’ voice earned him a living during his professional life in Chicago, and tonight at Ivano’s, it will entertain residents over dinner and dessert.

During his evening performance, Duykers will impersonate three famous Las Vegas crooners and swooners: Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. And not only will he perform their signature songs in their individual vocal styling, he’ll also mimic their on-stage personalities and mannerisms.

“It’s acting more than anything else,” Duykers said. “So for instance, when I’m Dean Martin, I’ll be cracking jokes between songs.”

The evening starts with dinner at 6 p.m. By the time audience members are finishing up their dessert, Duykers takes the stage for his 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets for the performance cost $45 and include the meal.

“I can’t think of a better place to perform the music of these classic Italian artists than Ivano’s,” Duykers said.

Given Duykers’ professional background, it’s no surprise that he has a knack for performing. He worked in Chicago as a voiceover artist for thousands of TV and radio advertisements. Able to switch his resonant baritone on the fly from over-the-top cartoonishness to sophisticated enunciation, he maintained a long career in voice-over advertising before retiring in Sandpoint.

“I still do some work for advertising in Montana and some of the surrounding areas,” he said. “But for the most part, I’m enjoying retirement.”

Retirement gives him some time to focus on the artwork he creates as a hobby and his performances. According to him, this performance in particular should be memorable thanks to the pianist, Bill Reid, and the bass player, Kyle Pehw, that will be accompanying him throughout the evening.

“They’re great musicians, and I’m glad to have them playing with me,” Duykers said.

Seating for the show is limited. To make a reservation, call 263-0211.