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Gans hadn't planned to be an entertainer. His boyhood dream was to play third base for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and he was, in fact, drafted by the Kansas City Royals, while he was still attending high school in California. Sadly, an injury forced him to decline the offer-but, sometimes, opportunity knocks more than once.
While in college, Gans turned down another draft offer, this one from the Chicago White Sox. Two years later, his life long dream came true as he signed that contract and was sent to the minor leagues to start his career as a professional athlete. But, not long after it all came to a crashing halt as a career-ending injury turned his life upside-down.
With love and encouragement from friends and family, Gans shifted his focus from baseball to entertainment. He had been blessed with a marvelous singing voice, the ability to make people laugh and a rare presence that would manifest itself in his new career.
Gans spent 15 years traveling throughout the United States, working at his craft and perfecting a vast repertoire of impressions. At the same time he became one of the most sought-after performers in the prestigious corporate world, often playing to stadium-sized crowds for major, international companies such as IBM and McDonald's and was the darling of the Fortune 500 list. Fellow entertainers such as Bill Cosby and Natalie Cole raved about Gans, and it became apparent that he was destined to be a star.
In 1995 Danny was staring on Broadway in his one man show. However, between New York and 200 concert dates a year, he found himself longing to be with his wife and three children. So, when the opportunity to move his show to Las Vegas presented itself, where he could settle down to a life with his family, Gans knew it was the right move.
In doing so, Gans' commitment to his family had been doubly rewarded; the family is happy to call Las Vegas home, and Gans has taken the town by storm. On top of record-breaking crowds and consistently sold out shows, Gans has been showered with accolades and awards. He's the talk of the town, and his name is on the lips of visitors even before they arrive in Las Vegas.
Gans is an integral part of the Las Vegas community, too. He recently hosted the 4th Annual Danny Gans Invitational Golf Tournament. More than $75,000 was raised for Boys Town of Nevada and the Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association, and plans for the 5th annual, star-studded event are underway. He also funds the Danny Gans Golf Academy which allows children to learn how to play golf for free. In addition, he is involved with the Lili Claire Foundation performing annually to raise research money for William's Syndrome.
Gans also finished recording his first album, on Sony's Epic label. Award-winning producer, Michael O'Martian produced Gans' inaugural album which climbed to #19 on the Christian pop charts.
Completing the picture of success, Gans' just celebrated two years of sold-out shows in his 1,250-seat theater at the Mirage, and was again named "Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year" for the 6th straight year in a row.
He may not be playing third base for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but he's hitting home runs nightly in the theatre which bears his name. Danny Gans is truly living a dream come true.
Visit Danny Gans' Website »
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