Everything Las Vegas Issue # 680
October 3rd, 2008
From: "The Vegas Eye"
Lion King Comes to Las Vegas in 2009
In another TheVegasEye.com exclusive we just got word are the first to announce that Disney Theatrical Productions and Mandalay Bay that the award-winning Broadway phenomenon THE LION KING is coming to the Mandalay Bay Theatre May 2, 2009 with preview performances beginning April 20, 2009. This sit-downproduction will join the six other highly successful companies of THE LION KING around the world in New York, London, Hamburg, Paris, Tokyo and Fukuoka.
Mandalay Bay's production of THE LION KING will be virtually identicalto the other companies seen around the globe and will be staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a
worldwide phenomenon.
Ticket prices, on-sale dates and performance schedules will be announced at a later date.
"We're incredibly pleased to bring THE LION KING to the audiences of Las Vegas," said Thomas Schumacher, producer of THE LION KING and president of Disney Theatrical Group. "Mandalay Bay has seen great success with other shows thanks to its extraordinary commitment to producing theatre of the highest caliber. When we decided to bring THE LION KING to Las Vegas, we knew that this was the right show at the right venue at the right time."
Bill Hornbuckle, president and chief operating officer of Mandalay Bay, said, "We are known for offering our guests exciting and spectacular entertainment options. The addition of THE LION KING, one of the most successful production shows in history, will continue this tradition. We are certain THE LION KING's international appeal will be embraced by Las Vegas locals and visitors alike."
Richard Sturm, president of sports and entertainment of MGM MIRAGE, the parent company of Mandalay Bay, stated, "It's an honor to have Disney Theatrical Productions bring THE LION KING to Mandalay Bay. The show has a tremendous reputation throughout the entertainment industry and weanticipate a strong demand for THE LION KING in Las Vegas. We are looking forward to a successful partnership."
http://thevegaseye.com/
Donny and Marie put on the charm.
By: Joe Brown/Las Vegas Sun
Is it too late to nominate Donny and Marie for President?
OK, then. But what about president of Las Vegas?
Think about it: America’s First Brother and Sister are running on a pro-lively, antidepressant, universally entertaining platform. They’re pretty much scandal-free. We’ve all seen them grow up on television. They work the stage and screen like lifelong politicians, and no one alive — not even Bill Clinton — can grin, wave, point, wink and make eye contact like they can.
The toothsome twosome surely smile even while sleeping.
They’re installed for a six-month run at the Flamingo, but they could easily reign for four years — and be reelected by a landslide for another term.
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/sep/29/donny-and-marie-put-charm/
Steve's Las Vegas Quickies:
Word is the second show for Jersey Boys at the Venetian is a little slow. This wouldn't be the first big show to do a cut back.
This just in. Rumors, rumors….. which major property, and I mean major property, is about to be sold? This is big news because the owners have been trying to unload it for years.
http://thevegaseye.com/montella/
The Dallas Morning News listed 10 popular Las Vegas attractions and No. 1 was Big Elvis, who is the fabulous rotund Pete Valle performing free afternoon shows Monday through Friday at Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon on the Strip.
Cher's health issues remained under wraps Saturday after missing three shows in a row at Caesars Palace, and four in September. Her next show is scheduled for Tuesday, and there was no status change announced on that. She has a history of abdominal problems and Epstein-Barr virus, a chronic condition.
McCarran International Airport opened two new additions this morning, including 12 new security lanes where Transportation Security Administration officers will use new “whole body imaging” technology to screen passengers.
The new security lanes will allow passengers to move more directly between the ticketing area and the C gates, which are the departure points for most Southwest flights.
Flamingo headliners Donny & Marie Osmond, barely a month into their six-month engagement, are doing such strong business that a two-year deal is being discussed with the hotel. "That's the magic number we're hearing," Donny Osmond said, while confirming talk with Don Marrandino, president of Harrah's Las Vegas and the Flamingo. Nostalgia has been a big part of the allure, Osmond said. It's the first time in 29 years that the duo have been Las Vegas headliners. L.A. POKER CLASSIC WORLD TOUR MULTIPLIER MAYHEM DISCOVERY NIGHTS
This October, Silverton Casino Lodge offers Discovery Club members the chance to win $50,000 cash weekly with $200,000 Pumpkin Patch O’Cash. Discovery Club members may earn tickets by playing their favorite slots, video poker, keno, table games and live poker. Twenty-five tickets will be earned upon a new Discovery Card sign up, ten tickets will be earned for every $100 buy-in on table games and one ticket will be earned for every $5 live keno bet, $10 live poker buy-in and 50 base slot or video poker points accumulated. Drawings will be held Saturday, Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 8 p.m. Patrons with winning tickets will choose an envelope from a prize board to determine cash prize. One envelope on the board will contain the chance to play for the $50,000 grand prize. Whoever selects the specially marked envelope will choose a pumpkin from a special pumpkin patch, revealing cash amounts from $5,000 to $50,000. The player will continue picking pumpkins until four matching cash amounts are chosen. Tickets earned must be placed in the drawing drum two minutes prior to each drawing. Guests are encouraged to visit the Discovery Club for more details.
Now through Dec. 13, Silverton Casino Lodge offers Discovery Club members the chance to win a $10,000 entry into the L.A. Poker Classic World Tour, which is scheduled to be held in Los Angeles Feb. 28 – March 5, 2009. Members must earn points through daily tournaments and live poker play. On Dec. 7, the top 20 players with the most earned points from daily tournaments and the top 30 players from live poker play will qualify to compete in a satellite event at Silverton Casino Lodge on Dec. 13. The top three players will receive cash prizes and the winning player will receive the $10,000 entry fee into the L.A. Poker Classic World Tour, hotel and airfare for two and $1,000 cash. Guests are encouraged to visit the Player’s Club for more details.
Every Friday, Discovery Club members can earn five-times points on reel games and two-times points on video poker at Silverton Casino Lodge. Guests are encouraged to visit the Discovery Club for more details.
Silverton Casino Lodge hosts No Limit Texas Hold ‘em Discovery Nights tournaments every Tuesday and Thursday at 11 p.m. To participate, Discovery Club members can buy-in for $32 to receive $1,000 in tournament chips and can purchase an additional $1,000 in tournament chips for $3 at registration. Players are allowed one re-buy or add-on of $2,000 in tournament chips for $20. If a Discovery Club member plays two hours of live poker between noon and 10 p.m. on the day of the event, the re-buy or add-on is free. Entry is limited to Discovery Club members. Those interested in playing are encouraged to visit Silverton Casino Lodge’s poker room for more details.
FRIDAY NIGHT IS LADIES NIGHT
Silverton Casino Lodge launches a weekly, ladies-only poker tournament Fridays at 9 p.m. Every Friday, a $37 buy-in gets each participant $2,000 in chips and one of 30 seats in the tournament. Players also have the option to purchase an additional $1,000 in tournament chips for $3 at registration. Entry is limited to female Discovery Club members only. Those interested in playing are encouraged to visit Silverton Casino Lodge’s poker room for complete rules and prize structure breakdown.
Every Saturday, Silverton Casino Lodge offers Discovery Club members $100 buy-in no limit Hold’em at 8 p.m. At registration, members will be issued $2,000 in chips. Players can purchase an additional $2,000 in chips for only $5. Silverton Casino Lodge will be offering one $25 buy-in table at 6 p.m. First and second place winners win $100 each. Space is limited.
Super Tuesday Slot Tournaments: No-Limit Hold’em players receive free buy-ins. I think everyone know that the casino has the edge on most games and will win in the long run. However, in the short term Luck will be a big factor in determining whether you win or lose. This is true of games that have positive expectations as well as games with a high house edge. When I visit the casino I stick to the games where I have the edge but like every other player, I am at the mercy of the fickle goddess Lady Luck. On a recent five day casino vacation Lady Luck abandoned me. I spent the next five days living every gamblers nightmare by losing every session I played. I tried blackjack, video poker, Texas Holdem, slots and even entered a couple tournaments. Nothing would go right and by the third day I was literally talking to myself as I watched my bankroll dwindle down. I felt as if I were on the verge of going on tilt. More here:
On Thursdays, Silverton Discovery Club members can participate in the “Smokin’ Aces” video poker tournament for a share of $2,000 cash. To qualify, Discovery Club members must earn points by playing specially marked machines. Members have eight minutes and 600 credits to rack up as many points as possible. The players with the top 10 scores will advance to the final round, which will determine placement for prize money. Registration begins at 7 a.m. the morning of the tournament and patrons must pay an entry fee of 2,500 points, $5 cash or player loyalty coupons. Seat and round numbers will be assigned at the time of registration.
Silverton Casino Lodge is offering Discovery Club members the chance to walk away with hundreds of dollars in cash every Tuesday during Super Tuesday slot tournaments. To qualify to win the weekly cash prizes totaling $2,000, Discovery Club members must earn points by playing specially marked machines. Members will have eight minutes to rack up as many points as possible. The top ten players will advance to the final round, which will determine placement for prize money. To register, Discovery Club members should visit the Discovery Club. Registration begins at 7 a.m. the morning of the tournament and patrons must pay an entry fee of 2,500 points, $5 cash or player loyalty coupons. Seat and round numbers will be assigned at the time of registration.
Every Monday night, Silverton Casino Lodge grants a buy-in bonus to no-limit Hold’em players. To be eligible, Discovery Club members must be one of the first ten players to participate in a live action no-limit Hold’em game. Players may receive a maximum of one buy-in bonus on each day of the promotion and must play a minimum of two hours.
http://casinogambling.about.com/od/moneymanagement/a/losingstreak.htm
(New Ones Added)
Jeff McBride's Magic at the Edge: $10 off admission
The Las Vegas Comedy Club: 2-for-1 admission
Scott Lewis Comedy Hypnosis Show: $10 ticketsSuperstar Voices in Concert starring Larry G Jones The Platters, Coasters & the Marvelettes: $15 off admission
McFadden's Restaurant & Saloon: Free drink, no line, no cover
Silverstone Golf Club: Time for Nine
Silverstone Golf Club: $200 off Wedding Ceremony or Reception
Casa di Amore Italian American Restaurant: Free pizza Nathan Burton Comedy Magic: $10 off admission Country Superstars Tribute: 2-for-1 admission ICE Direct from Russia: $20 off admission
Skydive Las Vegas: $10 off a 3-mile skydive
Awesome Adventures: $30 off ATV, horseback, kayak & gold mine tours
The Adventurers - Las Vegas Chapter: $60 off membership
Fashion Outlets: Shopping coupons
Mystery Adventure Tour: $5 off admission
Jay White as Neil Diamond: 2-for-1 admission
Dixie Dooley Master Mystifier: 2-for-1 admission
Comedy Pet Theater: 2-for-1 ticket
Tony & Tina's Wedding: $15-$30 off admission
Tony & Tina's Wedding: 2-for-1 for locals
XBurlesque: $10 off admission
Vinnie Favorito Comedy Show: $10 off admission
LA Comedy Club: 2-for-1 admission
Lucky Cheng's Drag Cabaret: 10% off dinner, show and cocktails
Nathan Burton Comedy Magic: $10 off admission
The Mentalist Gerry McCambridge: Free ticket with drink purchase
Vegas Mob Tour: $10 off admissionHaunted Vegas Tour & Show: $10 off admissionLa Cage: 2-for-1 admission
Liberace Museum: 40% off museum admission
The Sopranos Last Supper: $10 off admission
Madam Tussaud's: Up to $16 off admission
Marriage Can Be Murder: $10 off dinner show ticket
Nathan's Famous: Free Hot Dog
Hypnosis Unleashed: $10 off admission
Riviera Comedy Club: 2-for-1 admission
Tix4Tonight: $2 off service fee for half-priced tickets
Vegas Wedding Chapel: $50 off any ceremony
American Superstars: 2-for-1 admission
Bite: 2-for-1 admission
VegasVIPHottieHosting: 10% off nightlife packages
Defending the Caveman: Special dinner/brunch show pricing
Vegas Indoor Skydiving: $10 off single flight
Click Here for more Las Vegas coupons
MERMAID RESTAURANT & LOUNGE AT SILVERTON CASINO LODGE UNVEILS NEW MENU.
Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge at Silverton Casino Lodge now features a new menu filled with tantalizing appetizers and delectable entrées.
While enjoying Silverton Casino Lodge’s 117,000 gallon aquarium, patrons can submerge themselves in an assortment of new entrées and finger foods at Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge. To start, visitors can dive into a bowl of parmesan fries ($7), chips and salsa ($4), homemade guacamole ($8) and snacks for two ($3), which includes assorted nuts, pretzels or trail mix. Guests can dine on chicken wing dings ($8), buffalo chicken strips ($8), nachos ($8) and Caesar salad ($8, $6 half order) with chicken ($10, $8 half order), ahi tuna ($11, $9 half order) or shrimp ($11, $9 half order).
Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge’s new menu also offers teriyaki bowls with chicken ($9), steak ($10), salmon ($11) or shrimp ($11). Seafood selections include fried calamari ($8), fish tacos ($8), fish and chips ($8) and an ahi tuna wrap ($9). Pizza options include cheese ($7), pepperoni ($8) and sausage and mushroom ($9). Other mouthwatering options include a steak sandwich ($8), bacon cheeseburger ($8) and classic burger ($7, $8 with cheese).
Located next to Silverton Casino Lodge’s 117,000 gallon aquarium, Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge is the best place to eat, drink and watch the underwater life. Voted “Best Free Attraction” in the Best of Citysearchâ 2008 awards, Silverton Casino Lodge’s aquarium features 4,000 tropical fish, four species of stingray and six species of shark. From hamburgers to pizza, salads and sandwiches, guests can dine on delectable entrées as they enjoy the beautifully designed aquarium home to an interactive fish feeding show and live mermaids. Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge at Silverton Casino Lodge now features a new menu filled with tantalizing appetizers and delectable entrées.
BETTE MIDLER KEEPS THE SHOWGIRL GOING ON WITH NEW BLOCK OF TICKETS FOR SALE.
Bette Midler fans now have more chances to catch the Divine Miss M. in the biggest, hottest, sassiest show to ever hit the Las Vegas Strip: The Showgirl Must Go On. As Midler returns to the famous Colosseum stage at Caesars Palace to close out her super successful 2008 run, she will place 18 new show dates from January 2 – 25, 2009 on sale this Sunday, Oct. 5.
Critics have hailed The Showgirl Must Go On as “a razzle dazzle spectacular,” according to Daily Variety. The Los Angeles Times proclaimed, “Bette Midler is brash, funny, schmaltzy, surprising, poignant, charming, provocative, witty, bawdy and, of course, Divine,” and the New York Daily News says Miss Midler “hits the jackpot” with the biggest show of her career.
Flaunting plenty of girls and gags, Bette Midler’s 90-minute extravaganza, which opened on February 20, 2008, features an enchanting repertoire of her greatest hits, with some of Midler’s favorite characters like Delores Delago – the wheelchair-bound mermaid – and Soph, the oldest living showgirl in Las Vegas. Amongst the backdrop of a glittering Broadway-style theatre, Midler and her entourage of talented performers light up the stage in an energetic, comical, and visually stunning spectacle.
Midler will return to The Colosseum stage on Thursday, Oct. 9. She is also scheduled for performance dates in Nov. and Dec. 2008. The new block of tickets includes performances on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from January 2- 25.
Tickets for The Showgirl Must Go On are priced at $95, $140, $175 and $250 and can be purchased by calling 1-877-7BETTEM (723-8836) or logging on to www.ticketmaster.com, keyword “Bette Midler”. Tickets may also be purchased in person at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Box Office, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Showgirl Must Go On is performed approximately 100 times a year, five nights per week at 7:30 p.m.; the show is dark on Mondays and Thursdays. Visit bette.aeglive.com for more information on Bette Midler The Showgirl Must Go On at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. For additional information on The Divine Miss M., please visit her website www.bettemidler.com
October News from MGM MIRAGE
Rest Easy with the New Room Designs of TI and Circus Circus
This fall, Las Vegas visitors are invited to indulge in the new contemporary comforts of Treasure Island and Circus Circus. At Treasure Island, tempting new room designs pair plush luxuries with modern conveniences. Framed by soothing neutrals and draped in crisp white sheeting, each room’s dreamy focal point is the TI Elite Sensational® Pillow-Top Bed. Specially designed to provide uniform shape, true back support and soothing comfort, the bed is so sensational, it’s available for purchase. To keep visitors plugged in, TI also made must-have technologies standard – from 26-inch LCD flat-screen televisions to MP3/iPod-compatible clock-radios. High-speed Internet access also is available.
At Circus Circus, guests are invited to be among the first to experience a modern new room décor that combines a calming neutral palette with fun pops of vibrant color. Located in the property’s West Tower, each standard accommodation features a pillow-top mattress, sleek marble-topped workstation and comfortable sitting area. Hi-tech amenities include 32-inch plasma televisions and wireless Internet access.
Fall into Relaxation at the Spas of MGM MIRAGE
From a revitalizing coffee pedicure to an aromatherapy massage designed to melt away the stress and strain caused by long summer days, these fall-inspired treatments leave spa-goers relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.
Hot Café y Horchata Pedicure, MGM Grand Spa – Enliven your day with this energizing foot treatment. The stimulating 50-minute pedicure includes a hot coffee foot mask and a sweet milk foot soak. ($95, Monday-Thursday; $105, Friday-Sunday)
Moroccan Jasmine Tea Manicure and Pedicure, Kim Vo Salon at The Mirage – This intoxicating 90-minute service begins with a gentle sugar scrub infused with exotic jasmine oil. Next, guests enjoy a calming manicure and pedicure before a nourishing jasmine- and green tea-infused crème leaves hands and feet silky smooth. ($155)
Relaxation Massage, The Spa at New York-New York – During each indulgent 50- or 75-minute session, a citrus aromatherapy oil awakens the senses while a gentle scalp massage melts away tensions. The latter treatment also includes an exfoliating peppermint foot scrub and massage. As a special treat, guests are invited to enjoy a delicious orange and chocolate bar after their service. ($125, 50 minutes; $185, 75 minutes)
Tis the Season for Holiday Fun at Shark Reef Aquarium
This holiday season, Santa will be making his list and checking it twice at Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium. Children are invited to share last minute holiday wishes with “Santa in the Shipwreck” December 21-24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With each paid admission, children under the age of 12 also will receive a complimentary candy cane and photograph with jolly St. Nick to remember this unique holiday experience. Entry to Shark Reef Aquarium is $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages five through 12. Children four and younger receive complimentary access.
Take a Las Vegas Fantasy Home
The M Resort, Spa and Casino Debuts Its Latest Innovation - The M Lightship.
All eyes were toward the Las Vegas sky yesterday evening as the $1 billion M Resort, Spa and Casino debuted its 178 foot M Lightship – the resort’s electronic blimp with the world’s largest 70’ x 30’ aerial television screen on the side. The M Lightship will be the only airship in the world offering the public a close-up, hands-on experience. The resort intends to create a center, which will provide information about the Lightship as well as offer the public a chance to meet the captain and crew, take photos and obtain Lightship souvenirs.
“We envision the M Lightship as an exciting addition to the Las Vegas community,” said M Resort Chairman and CEO Anthony A. Marnell, III. “Plans are underway to house the lightship on a property adjacent to the resort and we are looking forward to offering tours of the lightship to the public.”
Marnell announced the resort will utilize the 7,705 pound M Lightship to aid in marketing efforts for the resort, which opens in March 2009 and resides at the southern gateway to the city’s famous Strip on Las Vegas Boulevard South.
The Lightship is able to broadcast a multitude of media from live television and streaming video, to Web sites and static images and offers vibrant full-color clarity. The M Lightship and its 2,100 square foot advertising screen will be visible to thousands of residents and many of the nearly 40 million visitors coming to the city each year. The Lightship’s lightsign – the television screen on its side – is comprised of 235,000 LED (light emitting diodes) that allow the messages to be seen for miles away.
Other fun facts about the Lightship include:
18 – The number of crew members for the M Lightship
30-35 – The miles per hour that the M Lightship cruises above Las Vegas
525 – The number of tiles that make up the M Lightship’s lightsign
800-1,000 – The number of feet the M Lightship flies above Las Vegas
7,705 – The number of pounds the M Lightship weighs
23,000 – The number of square feet of Tedlar material that compose the Lightship’s envelope
170,000 – The number of cubic feet of helium that the M Lightship needs to be fully-inflated
To view and download photos, visit www.preferredpublicrelations.com and access the media room.
STRIP HOUSE AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD RESORT & CASINO WINS "BEST STEAK 2008" TITLE BY CITYSEARCH.
Strip House at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino receives Las Vegas’ coveted top steakhouse honor in the “Best of Citysearch” 2008 awards.
A leading online lifestyle guide, Citysearch names Strip House as the audience winner of the “Best Steak 2008” award. The luxury and dining guide praises Executive Chef John Schenk’s tantalizing menu comprised of prime cuts of beef, seafood dishes and signature sides. In addition, Citysearch commends Strip House for its sensual ambiance and burlesque feel, spotlighting the restaurant’s deep red walls and original 1900s Studio Manasse black and white photographs.
“In a city with so much competition, we are honored Strip House has been named the home of the best steak in Las Vegas,” said Mathew Glazier, president of The Glazier Group. “We are grateful to have such an exceptionally talented team devoted to making Strip House the best steakhouse in Las Vegas, providing our customers with an unparalleled dining experience.”
Strip House is open 5 – 11 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 5 – 11:30 p.m. Friday – Saturday. For more information, or to make a reservation, please call 702.737.5200.
www.vegas4visitors.com
We started this site in 1998 with a few hotel and show reviews plus some basic information about the city. In the last 10 years, we have stayed at and reviewed every major hotel and quite a few of the minor ones, seen every important show and some that we’d prefer to forget, eaten at more buffets and steakhouses (and other restaurants) than our waistlines would like to think about, hit all the major attractions, and gambled in just about every casino in town.
Because we didn’t save everything from the very early days, it’s a bit difficult to come up with exact numbers but we estimate somewhere in the neighborhood of about 120 hotel reviews (including re-reviews), 150 restaurant reviews, 75 show reviews, over 50 attraction reviews, and over 350 of these columns.
A lot has changed in Las Vegas in the last 10 years, so we thought it would be interesting to go back and look at the timeline from September 1998 to now.
A couple of notes: this is not going to include every single moment of everything that happened in Las Vegas over the last decade. I don’t have that much bandwidth.
Also, the dates listed are based upon the best available information I could find, which is not to say that something might not be off by a month or so.
September 1998
Vegas4Visitors.com launches
October 1998
Bellagio opens featuring more than 3,000 rooms and the soon to be iconic Fountains
March 1999
Speedworld at Sahara opens including roller coaster, virtual reality rides, and NASCAR café
Mandalay Bay opens
May 1999
The Venetian opens
July 1999
The Resort at Summerlin opens
September 1999
Paris Las Vegas opens
March 2000
The Showboat Hotel & Casino near Downtown is sold and becomes The Castaways
Blue Man Group show opens at Luxor
April 2000
Steve Wynn buys The Desert Inn
June 2000
Steve Wynn sells his portfolio of properties including Bellagio, Mirage, Treasure Island, and Golden Nugget to the MGM Grand corporation. The newly christened MGM Mirage is the largest casino company in Las Vegas
August 2000
The new Aladdin hotel opens on the same spot where the original Aladdin, which opened in 1966 and was imploded in 1998
The Desert Inn closes
September 2000
The Suncoast Hotel & Casino opens in the Summerlin area of northwest Las Vegas
October 2000
Station Casinos buys the Santa Fe casino on the north side of town and rebrands it as Santa Fe Station
The El Rancho Hotel (across from Circus Circus) is imploded
The Grand Adventures theme park at MGM Grand closes for the season and does not reopen the following year.
December 2000
Terrible’s Hotel & Casino after an extensive remodeling and expansion of the former Continental at the corner of Flamingo and Paradise
January 2001
Station Casinos buys the Fiesta Rancho
Station Casinos buys The Reserve in Henderson and rebrands it Fiesta Henderson
Rick Springfield takes over the lead of the special effects laden show EFX at MGM Grand from David Cassidy
August 2001
The Maxim hotel and casino just east of The Strip closes
October 2001
The Guggenheim and Guggenheim/Hermitage Museums at The Venetian open
The main tower of the Desert Inn is imploded to make way for Wynn Las Vegas
The new Aladdin files for bankruptcy protection claiming more than $700 million in debt, making it the largest bankruptcy in Nevada history
November 2001
Palms Casino opens
December 2001
Green Valley Ranch Resort opens
The Tuscany hotel opens just east of The Strip
January 2002
Vacation Village, a small casino and hotel south of The Strip, closes
March 2002
The Resort at Summerlin is purchased and rebranded as a JW Marriott resort
May 2002
The Neonopolis entertainment complex in Downtown Las Vegas opens
July 2002
Lord of the Dance closes at New York-New York
November 2002
Caesars Magical Empire attraction at Caesars Palace closes
January 2003
The Tuscany casino opens just east of The Strip
Large Guggenheim Museum at The Venetian closes
The Cannery hotel and casino opens in North Las Vegas
February 2003
Mamma Mia! opens at Mandalay Bay
The Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas opens
March 2003
The Colosseum at Caesars Palace opens
Celine Dion opens at Caesars Palace
EFX Alive show at MGM Grand closes
A California man wins $39.7 million on a Megabucks slot machine at Excalibur, the largest single slot jackpot in history
May 2003
Casino MonteLago opens at Lake Las Vegas
A fire destroys most of the remnants of the historic Moulin Rouge hotel
June 2003
Planet Hollywood buys the bankrupt Aladdin Hotel & Casino
The Venezia hotel tower at The Venetian opens
July 2003
The Pirate Battle at Treasure Island closes
MGM Mirage sells the Golden Nugget to a couple of Internet millionaires
The Castaways goes bankrupt
August 2003
Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity opens at New York-New York
Las Vegas Premium Outlets opens near Downtown Las Vegas
October 2003
A tiger mauls Roy Horn during a show at The Mirage and the Siegfried and Roy show closes permanently
Sirens at TI, the replacement for the Pirate Battle, opens at Treasure Island
November 2003
The Westin Casaurina Hotel, formerly the Maxim, opens
December 2003
THEhotel at Mandalay Bay opens
The Las Vegas Hilton is sold by Caesars to Colony Capital
January 2004
Binion’s Horseshoe casino closes, is purchased by Harrah’s
The Castaways closes
February 2004
Elton John opens at Caesars Palace
Boyd Gaming and Coast Casinos merge
April 2004
Binion’s reopens
June 2004
MGM Mirage buys Mandalay Resorts Group including their hotels Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur, and Circus Circus
An upgraded to the Fremont Street Experience canopy opens in Downtown Las Vegas
July 2004
The Las Vegas Monorail opens six months after it was originally intended to
Harrah’s buys Caesars Entertainment and its Las Vegas hotels including Caesars Palace, Bally’s, Paris Las Vegas, and The Flamingo
August 2004
The Algiers motel on the north end of The Strip closes
September 2004
The Las Vegas Monorail closes due to mechanical problems
October 2004
Wet ‘n Wild closes
Caesars Forum Shops expansion opens
November 2004
Cirque du Soleil’s KA opens at MGM Grand
The last remnants of The Desert Inn are imploded
December 2004
The Spa Tower at The Bellagio opens
The Las Vegas Monorail reopens
February 2005
Barry Manilow show opens at Las Vegas Hilton
The Golden Nugget is sold again, this time to Landry’s
March 2005
Binion’s loses its Horseshoe moniker
April 2005
Wynn Las Vegas opens
August 2005
The Augustus Tower at Caesars Palace opens
Avenue Q show opens at Wynn Las Vegas
Harrah’s buys The Imperial Palace
September 2005
The Blue Man Group show closes at Luxor and reopens shortly thereafter at The Venetian
October 2005
The Bourbon Street Hotel & Casino closes
November 2005
The Westward Ho closes
December 2005
South Coast Hotel & Casino opens south of The Strip
January 2006
The Castaways hotel is imploded
The Boardwalk Hotel & Casino on The Strip closes
The roller coaster at The Stratosphere closes
February 2006
The Bourbon Street Hotel & Casino is imploded
Hooters Hotel and Casino opens
Hairspray show opens at Luxor
The Lady Luck hotel in Downtown Las Vegas closes
April 2006
Red Rock Resort opens
May 2006
The Boardwalk Hotel & Casino on The Strip is imploded to make way for CityCenter
Avenue Q show closes
The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is sold to Morgan’s Hotel Group
June 2006
Hairspray show closes
Phantom: The Vegas Spectacular show opens at The Venetian
July 2006
Cirque du Soleil’s Love show opens at The Mirage
South Coast hotel sold, rebranded as South Point
November 2006
The Stardust closes
December 2006
Harrah’s Entertainment is bought out by a private investment group; acquires Barbary Coast
February 2007
The Barbary Coast Hotel & Casino closes for a few days so Harrah’s can rebrand it as Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall
March 2007
The Stardust is imploded
Spamalot show opens at Wynn Las Vegas
The Sahara is purchased by an LA nightclub impresario
April 2007
Aladdin name retired, hotel rebranded Planet Hollywood
June 2007
The New Frontier is sold to Elad Properties for a record $1.2 billion
July 2007
The New Frontier closes
Binion’s sold again
November 2007
The main hotel tower of The New Frontier is imploded
White Tiger Habitat at The Mirage closes
December 2007
Celine Dion’s show at Caesars Palace closes
Palazzo opens
January 2008
A blaze damages the Monte Carlo; hotel is closed for several weeks
February 2008
Bette Midler show opens at Caesars Palace
April 2008
Trump International opens
May 2008
Cher show opens at Caesars Palace
The Guggenheim Heritage Museum at The Venetian closes
July 2008
Spamalot show closes
August 2008
Eastside Cannery hotel opens
September 2008
Star Trek attraction at the Las Vegas Hilton closes
Vegas4Visitors.com celebrates 10 years. Thank you to everyone who has joined us on our remarkable journey over the last decade. We couldn’t have done it without readers like you!
Sad news from the entertainment community. Paul Newman has died of lung cancer at age of 83. Paul, one of our greatest stars was also one of the most charitable. All profits for Newman's. Own food produces went to charity and his camps for seriously ill children. Married to Joanne Woodward for 50+ years, they had 2 daughters and a son, (deceased). He was one of a kind, and will always be remembered.
Everyone was caught off guard when Cher canceled her show at Caesers Palace Tuesday and Wednesday last week. To cancel a show that seats 4500 every night is rare and Caesers shows command ticket prices that lean to the high side so you do the numbers. Friends from New York City expected to see Cher on Tuesday and were actually seated when it was announced the show was canceled. On Wednesday another group of friends from Miami were disappointed when the show was canceled at 6:00 that evening. JUST IN—-Cher canceled the rest of last weekend due to an undisclosed illness. No announcement as yet as to when she will reopen. Get well quick Cher, we all love and need you!
In past columns I've written about Criss Angel, called the Mick Jagger of magic, and his show, Believe, at the Luxor. Previews of the show started this week and from all reports it sounds like all is well and smooth riding from here. The actual opening for the show is scheduled for Halloween night.
I had to catch America Has Talent on television for the finals. The winner, chosen by the number of votes from phone and Internet voting, receives one million dollars and a chance to headline here in Las Vegas. Remember last year's winner Terry Fator made his Vegas debut at the Hilton. The finalists for this year will be appearing at the MGM.
Last Thursday I attended the press opening for Donny and Marie Osmond at the Flamingo. One of the best parts of the evening was finding out that some of the media had been "dis-invited." Ha, ha, ha! We saw the official opening on Thurs and the show is nothing short of fabulous. Both Donny and Marie were first class, all the way, Donny looking the same and Marie looking better than ever.. They are what performers should be. They sing, they dance, they have great comedic timing. It's hard to believe that so much time has elapsed since they first wowed the TV audience so many years ago.
http://thevegaseye.com/montella/
Brett's Vegas Views by Jackie Brett
Fantasy, the seductive adult revue at the Luxor produced by Emmy Award winner Anita Mann, continues to captivate audiences in the 350-seat showroom with a fantastic lineup of beauties who can easily fulfill fantasies. Unlike other shows in this genre, Fantasy is very fast paced with group numbers and very few solo or duo numbers. There are plenty of costume changes and individual looks plus another pretty lady Stephanie Jordan singing and Sean Cooper filling in numerous spots with a variety of talents.
Each year, the ladies in the show model for a calendar and the media got to see the 2009 promotional piece. Neither the show nor the calendar disappoints. Show tickets are $45 and performances are Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday - Friday at 10:30 p.m., Tuesday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and Saturday at 11 p.m.
Rod Stewart, Sheryl Crow, The Killers and David Spade will headline the 13th annual Andre Agassi Grand Slam for Children benefit concert being held on Saturday, Oct. 11 at Wynn Las Vegas at 6:30 p.m. Several more top performers and surprise guests will in time be added while Grammy award-winning producer, arranger and composer David Foster will return for his 13th year as musical director.
The lineup for Justin Timberlake and Friends Shriners Hospital benefit show at Planet Hollywood on Oct. 17 will include: 50 Cent, Boyz II Men, The Jonas Brothers, Esmée Denters, Adam Levine of Maroon 5, Leona Lewis, Rihanna and Will.i.am.
http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/brett/index.htm
Vegas Values
The below information is supplied by Scot Krause, our roving reporter,who supplies us each week with information on the best Las Vegaspromotions. It's only available here on the americancasinoguide.com web site so be sure to come back each Sunday to find out about the best values in Las Vegas.
http://americancasinoguide.com/Promotions/VEGAS-VALUES.shtml
Police release video in Hilton sports book robbery from The Las Vegas Sun.
Metro Police on Thursday released video of a "person of interest" in the robbery of the Las Vegas Hilton's Race and Sports Superbook early Friday morning.
Police had earlier released photographs of two suspects and a possible getaway car in the racebook robbery.
Witnesses described the suspects as 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-7 weighing 140 to 160 pounds. Both were wearing dark clothing and black motorcycle helmets, police said.
One suspect was wearing white shoes and has a helmet with a distinct angled stripe from the front to the back.
The robbers were armed and stole an undisclosed amount of money and casino chips, police said. They fled in a silver Dodge Durango, which had been stolen.
Police said the suspects left the Hilton and drove to a nearby spot where they entered a dark-colored four-door hatchback vehicle, possibly a Toyota Matrix.
Both vehicles were driven by an unknown third person.
Their actions were recorded on a video surveillance system, police said. By releasing the video, police hope the public can help identify them.
Anyone with information regarding the robbery is asked to call Metro's robbery section at 828-3591. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 385-5555.
A $25,0000 reward has been offered by the Las Vegas Hilton and may be available to the person providing information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects.
Watch the video here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/oct/01/police-search-las-vegas-hilton-sports-book-robbers/?latest
‘Believe’ audience looking for magic in show’s previews.
By: Melisa Arseniuk/Las Vegas Sun
Criss Angel has 30 days to make believers.
His Cirque du Soleil show, "Believe," premieres at the Luxor on Halloween, leaving a month to put the finishing touches on the $100 million production. The show opened softly Friday to a sellout crowd and previews of the work-in-progress will continue until the Oct. 31 premiere.
"Believe" originally was scheduled to open Sept. 12, and some have suggested the delays indicate deep-rooted and serious problems are afoot. It isn't the first Cirque show to be delayed: "KÀ" was delayed about seven months before it premiered in 2005 at the MGM Grand.
Critics have taken swings at "Believe" as the preview performances ramp up.
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/oct/02/believe-audience-looking-magic-shows-preview/
Awards honor old style of entertainment.
By: Jerry Fink/Las Vega Sun
Sharp-tongued comedian Vinnie Favorito will add spice to the fifth Meatball Awards, the annual ceremony honoring vintage Las Vegas performers and performers who follow the tradition of vintage Las Vegas.
Favorito, a headliner at the Flamingo, is known for his no-holds-barred approach to comedy. Political correctness is not in his vocabulary.
Among this year’s honorees are “Defending the Caveman” star Kevin Burke, impressionist Larry G. Jones, comedian/magician Jeff Hobson, Hard Rock butler Valentino Crespo, self-proclaimed “legend in his own mind” Monti Rock III, and singer Clint Holmes and his singer/comedian wife, Kelly Clinton.
The celebration begins Sunday in the Plaza showroom with a mixer at 3 p.m., the awards ceremony and show at 4 p.m., and a sampling of meatballs from five Las Vegas restaurants at 6 p.m.
Don Manarina, a fan of old Las Vegas entertainers, came up with the idea for the show in 2002. He died of a heart attack the next year.
Grant Griffin, who has performed in Las Vegas off and on since 1956, has kept the show going through the years.
“What drives me is that nobody really does anything about vintage Vegas,” Griffin says. “Nobody really digs into the past of Vegas.”
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/oct/01/awards-honor-old-style-entertainment/
What’s still the same: energy and hits, hits, hits.
By: Joe Brown/Las Vegas Sun
The latest edition of Barry Manilow’s show at the Las Vegas Hilton is called “Ultimate Manilow: The Hits.” And true to its title, it’s crammed, stuffed, bulging with hits.
Basically a remodeled version of his previous revue (“Penultimate Manilow”?), it has a spiffed up stage, lighting that bathes everything in soap bubble hues and video screens brought up to competitive scale and quality. The showroom’s adjacent bar has been renamed the Ultimate Bar, and the gift shop merchandise, from Manilow merlot to shower wraps, all bears the Ultimate Manilow brand.
At first it seems as if Manilow’s predominantly ’70s-era pop songs have undergone a makeover, too — the show begins with a noisy dance remix-style overture. But Manilow’s one of the last remaining showbiz smarties, and he knows his fans wouldn’t stand for too much messing with the classics.
More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/oct/01/manilow-show-gets-update-and-time-its-ultimate/
THE ELVIS QUESTION by Norm Clarke
From: The Las Vegas Review Journal
Elvis Presley fan club president Sue Laurenz sent an e-mail Saturday, clearing up the question of why there isn't a major street named after the entertainment icon.
Elvis' longtime road manager, Joe Esposito, had raised the issue during Friday's Walk of Stars ceremony for Presley at the Riviera.
Elvis Presley Court was granted to a cul de sac in the north end of Las Vegas in 1988.
Two other versions have Elvis in the name, including Elvis Alive, near Mount Charleston.
According to Laurenz' Web site for the Viva Las Vegas Club, the fire department, for 911 emergency purposes, will not approve another street for Elvis. Laurenz' club raised every penny for Elvis' ceremonial star.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/29857169.html
MIKE WEATHERFORD: What happens here … changes,.
From: The Las Vegas Review Journal
Back in May, I wrote in this column, "Shows haven't had much luck attracting the nightclub crowd. So as times get tougher, it could be producers are focusing more on families, which still are taking vacations and buying show tickets."
That column came after resident casino deals for family-friendly acts such as ventriloquist Terry Fator, and Donny and Marie Osmond. But no one knew how far that trend would go, just as few realized in March the Bear Stearns rescue was only the harbinger of a more stunning economic crisis in September.
The seismic shocker came last week with the leak that Disney's "The Lion King" will follow "Mamma Mia!" at Mandalay Bay.
More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/living/29857064.html
NORM: Illusionists given royal recognition.
Siegfried and Roy are in London this week for some royal recognition.
They were honored Sunday with a video tribute at London's famed Palladium for the launch of MAGICARES, an international charity.
The legendary Las Vegas illusionists were honored for their contribution in the world of magic, their Las Vegas achievements, humanitarian contributions and work in animal conservation.
In attendance was their friend and royal author, Princess Michael of Kent, who is hosting a private luncheon at Kensington Palace on Wednesday to mark Roy's 64th birthday.
Siegfried and Roy are planning to revive their old magic for one night at Larry Ruvo's annual Alzheimer's fundraiser at the Bellagio on Feb. 28.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/29875754.html
A PAINFUL WEEK by Norm Clarke
It's been a tough week for magicians.
Flamingo headliner Nathan Burton underwent surgery for a herniated disc on Tuesday at St. Rose Dominican Hospital in Henderson.
He'll miss six days before returning on Sunday.
"He woke up unable to walk," said his sister/assistant Emily Burton.
The comedy magician has been involved in heavy workouts lately, she said, adding, "It's the first time he's ever canceled a show."
http://www.lvrj.com/news/29991359.html
Really an "Angel by Norm Clarke
Concern over "Believe," Criss Angel's highly anticipated collaboration with Cirque du Soleil at Luxor, continued to swirl on Tuesday, a day after a critical story by R-J writer Doug Elfman based on fan reaction.
Las Vegas-based Richard Abowitz, who writes an entertainment blog for the Los Angeles Times, offered some analytical advice.
After watching Friday's sneak preview, Abowitz wrote that the show has "serious challenges," among them the need for Angel to deliver more personality.
While acknowledging that several illusions will be added, Abowitz wrote, "Right now, 'Believe' loses energy the moment Angel enters the mystery world of Cirque and becomes, for the most part, a spectator," instead of a compelling personality.
With another month of previews remaining, there's time for Cirque and Angel to turn it around, Abowitz said, but Angel "needs to equal his media claims that this show comes from his personality, because right now his personality is the most glaringly missing element."
http://www.lvrj.com/news/29991359.html
Elegant and hilarious, Rita Rudner shimmers at Harrah's.
By Robert Wiley-Brown/Las Vegas magazine
Case in point would be when Rudner observes, "I think men who have a pierced ear are better prepared for marriage. They've experienced pain and bought jewelry."
What else would you expect from one of the few "clean-humored" female headliners who has performed more than 2,000 shows on the bustling Las Vegas Strip? After all, this Miami native spent years studying the delivery and timing of Woody Allen and the late great Jack Benny, who she claims to be two of her favorite funnymen.
Over the years Rudner has had the opportunity to work with Jerry Seinfeld, Steve Martin, Martin Short and Whoopi Goldberg, to name just a few. But comedy was not always the olive in her martini glass.
At the tender age of 15, Rudner moved to the fast-paced, gritty world of New York City to try to fulfill her dream of being a working dancer on Broadway. This go-getter who didn't know the word "no" did just that with at least six shows, including Annie, Mack & Mabel and Follies. But in her mid-20s and with her keen sense of observation, which we still can see in her timeless humor, she realized that the competition on the Great White Way was overwhelmingly tough.
"When I went to a dancing audition," Rudner said, "there were 1,000 girls. And there were three jobs." Thank goodness, for our sake, she also noticed that there were far fewer female comedians. So she watched and learned by studying performers in comedy clubs and on television. In no time Rudner was writing her first joke.
"I broke up with my boyfriend because he wanted to get married. And I didn't want him to."
Eventually, after years of honing her comic talents, she was able to reach another goal on any comedian's wish list at the timhow Must Go On, And Diese – she was slated to appear on The Tonight Show with the beloved host Johnny Carson. Viewers who had tuned in were delighted with her fresh take on life with jokes like, "My mother's mother is a very tough cookie. She buried three husbands. Two of them were just napping." The rest, as they say, is show business history.
Now with six books under her pink satin belt, including the recently released title I Still Have It…I Just Can't Remember Where I Put It, several comedy specials, and even an award-winning movie, Peter's Friends, which she co-wrote with her husband of 20 years, Martin Bergman, Rudner still loves making people laugh without having to be dirty or even cutting-edge.
"I don't want to push the envelope," Rudner said. "Let the envelope stay in the middle of the table. I'll just make you laugh." And that she certainly does.'
http://lvshowbiz.com/feature1.html
The Show Must Go On And Does. By: Kate Silver/Las Vegas Magazine
Life as a Caesars Salad girl ain't all anchovies and croutons, if you know what we mean. Just ask Michelle DiTerlizzi, one of 18 showgirls (aka Caesars Salad girls) in Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Because the show is so eclectic and unique, DiTerlizzi had to learn some, shall we say, unusual skills before the curtain ever rose. Like navigating an electric wheelchair, in sync, with 17 other dancers.
"The funniest day was when they all said, 'Alright, get in 'em!', and 18 girls walked over and got in the wheelchairs, and we had wheelchair class," DiTerlizzi said. They were getting ready for the Delores Delago act, in which Midler and her dancers are dressed as mermaids. Their mobility is understandably hampered by the large fishtails they're wearing. So they hopped in the chairs and went forward and back, side-to-side, playing follow the leader, until they had the skills to make the kaleidoscope-like movements that you can see in the show today.
And then there are the mermaid tails themselves. When the girls (and Midler) are out of the wheelchairs, they're hopping. It's the only mode of transport possible while wearing a fishtail, after all. But to DiTerlizzi, walking is still tempting. "Every once in a while, at least once during the dance, you just want to take a step – you just wanna walk," laughed the dancer. "There's no way that it's going to happen."
When it's not the wheelchairs or the tails, they're balancing giant dollar signs on their heads or continually waving 10-pound fans during a 12-minute number, all the while switching dance styles, from '50s-style jazz to hip-hop. Versatility is an understatement.
"These are things you never thought you'd have to do in your life," DiTerlizzi said. Then again, she never expected to be onstage with Midler, either. After going through a rigorous tryout, competing against hundreds of women in Las Vegas alone (tryouts were also held in Los Angeles and New York), DiTerlizzi was thrilled to get the call offering her the showgirl job. Then came rehearsals, costume fittings, a new schedule – with that whirlwind, it took some time to realize the true significance of her new role. That came soon after meeting Midler.
"I remember watching her sing 'From a Distance' for the first time. We were in rehearsal clothes and she had no makeup, no hair. The band was behind her playing, and you look around the room, and all 18 dancers are crying. Because it's like, 'Oh gosh, she's right there, and we're going to be doing this every night.' It was when reality set in, finally."
An icon herself, Midler's show revisits the Las Vegas icon – the showgirl. In one act, Midler's alter ego, Soph, the Oldest Living Showgirl, gives a brief history of the dancers. The act is highlighted by the chorus, "Pretty legs, great big knockers; that's what sells the tickets at the door," as the showgirls smile, kick and do what they do best – dance.
And that, DiTerlizzi said, is what she wakes up to do every day. Dance. Whether she's a showgirl in Las Vegas or dancing on Broadway somewhere down the line, as long as she's dancing, she's happy. Even when she's hopping around in a fishtail costume.
Playboy Club celebrates two years at The Palms. By: jack Houston/Las Vegas Magazine.
Decades before Holly, Bridget and Kendra were transmitted to TV sets around the world, if you wanted a piece of the Playboy Empire, you had to pay your 60 cents just like everyone else. For the price of a dime and two quarters, you got all the flesh that was fit to print, plus the articles, the ever-important articles. The year was 1960, and Playboy founder Hugh Hefner was riding a wave of success from his popular men's magazine, launched seven years prior with Marilyn Monroe as the cover girl. Intent on expanding the brand, Hefner looked no further than his hometown of Chicago, where, on Feb. 29, 1960, he opened the first Playboy Club. A place where men could go to drink, ogle and be entertained, the club was best known for its Playboy Bunnies, cocktail servers clad in a skin-baring tuxedo, modified to fit each curvaceous form, and trademark bunny ears. You couldn't touch or date the Bunnies, but in a few short years, there were thousands of men checking them out in dozens of clubs around the world. As the cultural tide changed, the clubs could not sustain their remarkable initial business and one by one shuttered. Fifteen years after the final goodbye, the club was resurrected in a city that replicates so many indelible icons. Set among an Egyptian pyramid, a Roman palace and the canals of Venice, the Playboy logo looks right at home in Las Vegas. On Oct. 6, 2006, it was made official. With Hefner standing by, the lights went on atop the Palms' Fantasy Tower, and the Playboy bunny was broadcast for all to see with the opening of the world's only Playboy Club. Part of the epic penthouse trifecta in the $600 million tower, the Playboy Club sits on the 52nd floor sandwiched in between Moon nightclub above and Nove Italiano restaurant below. The space is warm and intimate – two qualities not always a given in most nightlife venues – and tailor-made for everything from discreet encounters to bachelor party blowouts. The classic Bunny outfit takes a Vegas twist courtesy of Roberto Cavalli, who revives the famous corset, cuffs, bowtie and, of course, bunny ears with stylish flair. (It's safe to say you haven't really seen Vegas until you've been dealt blackjack by a Bunny dealer.) Designers wisely chose to mix old-school Playboy with new millennium technology, as evidenced by Philippe Starck's Baccarat crystal chandeliers contrasting nicely with the rotating plasma screens of past Playboy Playmates. Ditto, the Diamond Bar, built from 10,000 diamond-shaped crystals and the bathroom, plastered with Playboy centerfolds. In print, on TV and now live in the flesh in Vegas, Hefner and the Palms have proved a good Bunny just keeps hopping. It could easily be described as one of the most ambitious live music shows ever brought to the Strip. When Raw Talent Live opens tomorrow (Friday) night at the Sahara, in a sense it’s a journey that began back in Communist Cuba. It wasn’t until many of the cast members defected to America that this new production could take shape. Sixty performers will utilize 700 costumes during the fast-paced 75-minute adrenaline-packed bilingual performance –- 30 percent of which will be in Spanish! Audiences will be transported into a virtual world -– an interactive emotional rollercoaster depicting the passionate story of the “Laptop of Life,” (LOL) which holds the ultimate secret that the world is searching for! In a new entertainment format elements of raw dance, live original music — from the sounds of Mozart to mosh, with a salute to salsa towards the end — and the singing performances have all been combined into the most modern of high-tech digital imaging and visual illusion with 190 pre-recorded music tracks. Producer Nicole Durr’s emerging video technology is so cutting-edge state of the art that it will also be used in the new Space3 nightclub opening at the Palazzo next spring! You’ll find it an added bonus to log onto RawTalent.com to learn about the character profiles, performer blogs and the surreal world in advance of witnessing the spectacle. It’s where you’ll also find out about and its creator, a producer and director who prefers to go solely by the initials N.D. She said: “With all of the intricacies involved in the show’s development, Raw Talent paves the way for the next generation of Vegas entertainment. It’s a Latin-themed spectacle that will be a show Brazilians, Argentineans, Cubans and Mexicans will be proud of. It’s a high-tech video spectacle that celebrates the Latino culture and unlike any other on the Strip. Some will be shocked by it — but others will love it. Whatever it is becomes an inspiring new experience.” N.D. spent many months negotiating with the Cuban government officials to win approval to stage the Havana Nights production, which played 400 shows in New York, Miami and then here at the since-imploded Stardust. It was there that the musicians, singers and dancers decided to defect and not return to their Communist country. They presented themselves at our downtown Immigration offices seeking political asylum and freedom -– which was eventually granted. Five reasons why Lotus of Siam still packs 'em in: By Norm Clarke/Las Vegas Review Journal 1. When star chefs such as Joel Robuchon and Mario Batali show up for the first time to check out the buzz, this hole-in-the-wall jewel is hotter than some of its five-alarm dishes. 2. Owner-chef Saipin Chutima's mastery of a 150-menu item of northern Thai cuisine is staggering. The quality is there because she's in the kitchen seven days a week. 3. If you're not sure you like Thai food, try the lunch buffet, at $8.95, it's one of the best deals in town. The address: 953 E. Sahara Ave. 4. The most popular dishes, according to manager Bank Atcharawan: Sea Bass with Drunken Noodles (Robuchon thought it was magnifique.), Pad Thai and a whole deep-fried catfish. Mayor Oscar Goodman is a fan of the black pepper garlic chicken wings, a buffet staple. 5. Being coronated the "single best Thai restaurant in North America" by Gourmet magazine brings in celebrities such as Smokey Robinson, Billy Joel and curious super chefs. http://www.lvrj.com/neon/30256524.html SHOW REVIEW: Donny and Marie Osmond Advance serving of Raw Talent Live at the Sahara By Robin Leach/Vegas Luxe Life.
The Osmond Blend: Donny and Marie balance then, now in Flamingo show.
Posted on October 3rd, 2008 by MrVegas98
Filed under: Newsletter
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