The return of Celine Dion and the revival of Michael Jackson's career were hot topics on Wednesday at a Caesars Palace event.

This much was clear when questions stopped flying: the door is wide open for both at Caesars Palace, which appears to have the inside track based on their relationships with Dion, her husband/manager Rene Angelil and Jackson.

But Caesars Palace president Gary Selesner and John Meglen, co-CEO and president of AEG Live/Concerts West, were choosing their words carefully after inviting the media to an event marking the six-year anniversary of the Colosseum.

Selesner said there is no question that Dion misses Las Vegas.

Nostalgia and the laws of scarcity combine to make the Tropicana's "Folies Bergere" a hot ticket as the venerable showgirl revue prepares to face the final curtain Saturday.

Only 100 of about 850 seats went on sale for the final show. The rest will be an invited audience, including about 400 alumni who have been in the cast at some point in its 49 years. They will be invited beforehand to pose for an alumni photo on the stage's signature "golden staircase."

As you read this, four more "regular" shows remain, at 7:30 and 10 p.m. today and Friday; the early one today is not topless if you want to share a piece of Las Vegas history with your children.

But people haven't waited until the last minute. Monday's show was "by far the most full I've ever seen that showroom," says Tropicana spokeswoman Brittany Markarian.

Hotel officials estimate the revue will have logged more than 29,000 performances since Christmas of 1959. By contrast, the Web site for the British mystery play "The Mousetrap" cites 23,000 performances in 56 years. An Internet off-Broadway database lists 17,162 performances in the 42-year run of the off-Broadway musical "The Fantasticks" (it reopened in 2006 after a four-year break).

The Tropicana made no secret of closing the house-owned production to look for an outside producer who will pay rent. But in lieu of a signed contract, casino officials still have not announced what show will follow "Folies."
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41881357.html

When the lights go dark on the Strip Saturday night, it's unfortunate it won't be to honor the passing after a half century of the Folies Bergere at the Tropicana.

In reality, the lights will go out for one hour starting at 8:30 p.m. as part of Earth Hour, a global attempt by the World Wildlife Fund to briefly focus attention on the problem of climate change. Which, come to think of it, is probably also a worthy cause.

Of course, professional skeptics searching for irony are sure to wonder aloud whether the lights will come back on in several mega-resorts, which are facing the threat of bankruptcy.

Others will sniff at the thought that wasteful, hedonistic Las Vegas dimming lights for an hour might just illustrate how much peril the planet really is in. But, hey, I say give us a chance to expand our definition of green beyond greenbacks, green felt and Green Valley.

According to the WWF, the wildlife people, not the wrestling federation, Las Vegas is one of 10 Earth Hour flagship cities. The effort on the Strip is led by Harrah's Entertainment. MGM Mirage, which only coincidentally is looking to save a few bucks everywhere it can these days, also agreed to shut off its lights.

Just so no one is misled, it's the marquees that will go dark, not the lights in the casino. The "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign also will be unplugged for 60 minutes.

You can only take this environmental activism stuff so far.

A barbecue margarita — yes, it does taste like a margarita that's been barbecued — is just the beginning of the fun at this offbeat 'cue joint across from the university. We also liked the appetizer Sampler Platter with its fried pickles, chicken wings, barbecued shrimp and onion rings, and also the pulled-pork sandwich, baby-back ribs and a side order of sweet-potato fries. (9/26/08)
Overall: A- $$

MAMACITA'S
611 E. Fremont St.; 474-7033

Mamacita's is a little bit Mexican, a little bit Cuban. What that meant for us was a good plate of carnitas enchiladas with beans and rice, and the best ropa vieja we've ever had. We also liked the guacamole, the yuca frita and the flan. Oh, and the disco music. (11/16/07)
Overall: A- $

MORTON'S THE STEAKHOUSE
400 E. Flamingo Road; 893-0703

The slogan sounds like adspeak– no doubt about that — but it turns out to be true: Morton's is The Steakhouse. We loved it all, including the crabmeat cocktail, salad of tomatoes with purple onion and blue cheese, sesame-encrusted yellowfin tuna, New York strip, Lyonnaise tomatoes, creamed spinach and Grand Marnier souffle. (3/23/07)
Overall: A $$$$

PEPPERMILL RESTAURANT
2985 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 735-4177

If you haven't eaten at the Peppermill you should, because it's nothing if not unique. A very cool throwback whose magnolia-and-neon decor looks like a Southern plantation exploded and rained down on the set of a futuristic '70s TV show, it also happens to serve consistently good food, and in copious portions. We ran into a bit of a service snag but loved the Pastrami Burger with creamy potato salad, and the Walnut Creek Salad with pear-cilantro vinaigrette and rosemary focaccia. And don't miss the lounge, complete with fire-breathing fountain. (3/16/09)
Overall: B+ $$
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41964447.html

By: Mike Weatherford/Las Vegas Review Journal

Gordie Brown has come full circle back to the Golden Nugget, but he's not quite the same guy who started his Las Vegas career there in 2004.

Sure, a lot of the gags are the same and just as adolescent. A review of the comic impressionist's first Nugget stint back then mentions lots of bits that are still there now, from Paul Simon's "You Can Call Me Al" becoming a Viagra joke to Billy Ray Cyrus' "Achy Breaky Heart" — "I was smokin' a bong when I wrote this crazy song" — morphing into the theme song of kiddie dinosaur Barney.

The difference is more in Brown's confidence level and the sheer speed of delivery. And perhaps these are only subtleties, noticeable only to someone who has seen him a lot of times since.

More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41964482.html

Neo country crooner Keith Urban stops at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on July 18, with Glen Campbell. Tickets are $20, $74.50 and $94.50 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at Ticketmaster outlets.

Punk veterans The Offspring hit The Pearl at the Palms on May 30, with Alkaline Trio and Street Dogs. Tickets are $49.50 and go on sale at noon Saturday at The Pearl box office, 4321 W. Flamingo Road, and Ticketmaster outlets.

Rock lifer Peter Frampton visits The Pearl on Sept. 18. Tickets are $25, $35 and $45 and go on sale at 1 p.m. Saturday at the venue box office and Ticketmaster outlets.

Blues great B.B. King performs at the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay on May 16. Tickets start at $65.50 and go on sale at 10 a.m. today at the House of Blues box office, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South, and Ticketmaster outlets.

Southern rock powerhouse The Allman Brothers bring their 40th anniversary tour to The Sandbar at Red Rock Resort on May 24. Tickets are $69 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Red Rock Boarding Pass Rewards Center, 11011 W. Charleston.

Blues rocker Robin Trower comes to The Railhead at Boulder Station on May 30. Tickets are $24, $29, $37 and $45 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Boulder Station Boarding Pass Rewards Center, 4111 Boulder Highway.

Country/pop crooner Jewel plays the Access Showroom at Aliante Station on July 18. Tickets are $49, $59 and $69 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Aliante Station Boarding Pass Rewards Center, 7300 Aliante Parkway.
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41964492.html

Anyway, 49 years is much to be proud of considering some of the acts that come to Las Vegas don’t last 49 days. I admit the show has slipped at times over the years, mainly because no-one wanted or had the money to spend on it, but the Folies to many of us meant “Old Las Vegas”. A time of mobsters and showgirls, inexpensive entertainment and dining and characters befitting a Damon Runyon book.

It was also the first show on the Strip that featured topless showgirls and don’t think that didn’t help fill the seats. Today it’s no big deal, as not only do other shows have topless women, but you can see the same at many of our hotels’ pools. But back in the ‘60s, “Va va va voom! Did those broads have knockers.” At least, that’s what I heard.

What will replace the Folies is not yet known, but I doubt that whatever it is will enjoy the longevity of the Folies Bergere. Au revoir, mes amis.

A Deal For The Divine One
Okay, listen up. If you’re planning to see Bette Middler’s The Showgirl Must Go On, take advantage of this offer the Divine Miss M is making. It’s a seating upgrade deal and only for locals, so you’ll need a valid photo ID. Here’s how it works and by the way, it’s only being offered through April 5.

Buy a ticket in the second mezzanine level and get a complimentary upgrade to first mezzanine seating. If your ticket is in the first mezzanine you get to go to rear orchestra seating. The savings is up to $45 per ticket, which you can use to buy popcorn and a soft drink next time you go to the movies. I should also add that the offer is subject to availability.

To book seats, visit www.ticketmaster.com, keyword “BETTE,” and enter the password BMUPGRADE in the “Locals Upgrade Offer” box, or visit The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Box Office with valid photo I.D. By the way, it’s a great show and Midler is better than ever.

Eat Out For Passover
This item is for all my Jewish readers and I hope there are many. The Rampart Casino will feature Passover specials at the Rampart Buffet on April 8 and 9 beginning at 4 p.m. The menu includes Roasted Chicken with Carrot, Onion, Celery and Mini Potatoes in Schmaltz, Gefilte Fish, Hand-Carved Gravlax, Roast Cornish Game Hen with Lemon, Garlic and Fresh Thyme Baked Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze, Roast Leg of Lamb, Braised Beef Brisket, Prime Rib, Roast Turkey, Braised Beef Short Ribs, Hot Beef Borscht, Matzo Ball Soup, Passover-Style Potatoes, Carrots, Parsnip and Rutabaga Tzimmes, Kasha, Vegetable Kugel and Passover Rolls.For reservations, please call (702) 507-5944. Happy Pesach!!

Bring On the Beer
Okay, maybe I shouldn’t be promoting drinking, but this is Las Vegas and the last time I checked, people weren’t coming here to knit. So without further ado (always wanted to say that) I bring you greetings from the Sin City Brewing Co., the microbrewery that has set up shop in the Flamingo.

Not only does Sin City feature all four of its custom brews on tap, but you can buy vibrant Sin City Brewing Co. logo merchandise (including t-shirts, bowling shirts, hats, yoga pants, hooded sweatshirts, thongs, camisoles and glassware for men and women) and enjoy looking at the Flamingo’s 15-acre pool and wildlife complex while sipping your brew sitting on the bar’s patio.

Don Marrandino, the resort’s head honcho, summed it all up when he said, “The Flamingo has one of the most incredible pools in Las Vegas (I can vouch for that) and Sin City Brewing Co. has a prime location overlooking the area. The killer view from the patio matched with locally brewed beers makes Sin City a great place to unwind with a pint.”

Tough economic times have prompted casinos to offer some rare deals, like $25 all-day buffet passes, buy-one, get-one free room rates and more than half off show ticket prices — but Luxor’s newest deal may raise the bar.

Luxor is calling its new promotion “all-inclusive,” modeled after the packages many tropical resorts offer.

The all-inclusive package includes a room, all you can eat at the buffet, two tickets to “Criss Angel Believe,” two tickets to “BODIES…The Exhibition,” two tickets to “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition,” two day passes to the Nurture spa, two VIP passes to LAX and Cathouse, and check-in at the VIP lounge.

The package runs for $210 a night (upgrades are available with more expensive rooms) with some cheaper nights scattered in, until the end of the year. A two-night minimum is required.
http://www.lasvegassun.com/blogs/gaming/2009/mar/26/luxor-makes-buffet-criss-angel-and-lax-packaged-de/

Mayor Oscar Goodman has been suitably waxed, celebrating the event this evening during an event at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas, and the feature attraction does not disappoint: The suit is suitably dark blue and pinstriped. The cheeks are aglow with a reddish hue; the nose slightly bulbous. The right hand clutches a martini, naturally, the eyes peer out as if scanning the crowd for the next handshake. He gives the thumb's-up sign, and that familiar grin on the face of the self-dubbed happiest mayor in the universe does not move.

Yes, the whole package is very convincing.

The wax figure isn’t bad, either.

When “Folies Bergere” takes its final bow Saturday at the Tropicana, it will create a void on the Las Vegas Strip.

Broadway director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell hopes to fill that void, at least partially, with “Peepshow,” which premieres Monday at Planet Hollywood.

“Folies” was a Las Vegas staple for almost 50 years and helped make the spectacular topless revue an icon of the Entertainment Capital. The lone remaining topless show dripping glamour and glitz is Donn Arden’s “Jubilee!” at Bally’s.

“Peepshow” follows that tradition — sort of.

More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/mar/25/vegas-institution-updated/

By: Joe Brown/Las Vegas Sun

Only in Las Vegas …

… can you play slots at 4 a.m. at 7-Eleven.

… can you get married at a drive-through chapel.

… is Danny Gans a household name.

Mention Gans anywhere else in the country and you’ll likely be answered with a puzzled look. How did this genial guy, a singing impressionist, become arguably an entertainment brand name in Las Vegas?

I’d say it’s a tribute to the efficacy of the billboards and cab-top posters touting Gans as “Entertainer of the Year” (those hype signs don’t bother to mention which year, or who crowned him such).

More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/mar/23/here-hes-mr-close-enough/

If you’ve never been invited to a Halloween party thrown by comic magician Amazing Johnathan, you can get a taste of his macabre sense of humor in “Freaks,” the new show at O’Sheas.

Producer Anthony Cools discovered some of the acts at the Johnathan events.

“I thought of the idea for ‘Freaks’ a couple of years ago,” says Cools, a hypnotist as well as producer. “I’ve been looking for the right people for a long time and I ended up meeting about half the cast over a course of two years at Amazing Johnathan’s parties.”

A couple in the show are human skewers, penetrating skin and muscle with long needles. One of the skewered cast members has a hand drill with a corkscrew bit that passes through his nasal cavities. There’s some glass eating and sword swallowing.

More here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/mar/19/freaks-tests-physical-limits-performers-squeamishn/

Even among eccentrics, the Amazing Johnathan would be considered an eccentric.

The 50-year-old macabre comic magician lives in a house booby-trapped with scary gags and hidden passages.

On a lark he has re-created inside a warehouse a replica of the Gratiot Drive-In Theatre near Detroit where he worked for about 10 years from age 16.

He has fond memories of the 1,000-car facility, which was built in 1948 and torn down in 1984, the same year the Detroit Tigers won the World Series.

Within minutes, the casino floor – peppered with the highest of the high rollers, celebs and assorted schlumps (TV salesman Ron 'But wait, there's more!' Popeil AND yours truly) – overflowed with throngs of people eager to test their luck, oogle the whimsical HiDef resortitecture or corral for themselves a stiff mid-winter drink. Nearly all of them wore faces similar to what an eight year old might have should they have an accidental, late night rendezvous with ol' Saint F. Nick.

We all know that judging (or blogging about) a book based on its cover is a haughty game reserved for the most reckless of fools. The contemptuousness becomes exponentially immeasurable when the epic tome in question is still bundled in holiday paper and bow.

Appreciating Encore requires more than thrice looping it's much discussed chambered casino floor. For those with an eye for more than pay tables, Encore's vibrant palette and elaborate yet playful canvas reveals an unknown yet familiar and friendly abstraction. More than any previous casino resort, Encore surpasses its promise that a surprise is around every corner by stashing wonders next to, before, above, below, between, within, opposite and outside.

More here..12 pages.
http://www.vegastripping.com/features/feature.php?feature_id=160&page=1

Our room at Circus Circus was booked via VT's hotel reservation system after doing comparison shopping via Kayak and eyeballing specific deals direct from MGM Mirage. The rate of $28.50/nt for a standard King Room proved to be bottom of the fluctuation trend. Rooms in 'The Manor' were cheaper as expected, but there's no way in hell we'd stay back there.

Arrival at Circus Circus by car was relatively easy although the parking garage there is a complete nightmare. Nothing irritates me more than lousy drivers who are selfish and idiotic. Aaaargh. FYI, the top level of the Circus Circus parking garage has a great view into the back of Echelon for those interested in copping a peep of concrete and steel. Another tip – there is a bridge from the 3rd floor of the garage to the promenade level (2) inside the hotel. Access to resort elevators is nearby and you don't have to go out and around to get to the lobby, just down.

I hadn't expected much from my trip to Viva McDonalds other than a possibly goofy little story about how many fries were in a 'large.' I don't eat beef (allergic) and when forced or get the craving to do the fast food, McDonald's is usually my last choice.

Walking back to my room from Encore the night before the soft grand opening, I decided to make a quick detour into the brand new Viva McDonalds, built atop the hallowed low rolling ground of the old Westward, Ho!. Harrah's bought the property a few years ago and swapped it to Boyd Gaming for Barbary Coast. Harrah's ended up with the whole block down at Flamingo Road and Boyd had the option swap some land with McDonalds, moving the then-current McDonalds 200 feet away from their Echelon project to a new location next to Slots-A-Fun.

The result, Viva McDonalds, opened a few months ago to the usual Vegas fanfare. Being curious, and a slight bit peckish, I decided to give it a shot.

More here…3 pages
http://www.vegastripping.com/features/feature.php?feature_id=157&page=1

I promise that will be the last meat pun in this story. Unless I think of another good one.

So I decided to put together a list of the places where I found the best steaks in Las Vegas. Mind you, this is not about the restaurant as a whole, rather about the steak itself trying to leave all the other things that make up a full dining out experience complete.

I can’t rank these steaks because they are all so different and wonderful in their own ways, so I’ll merely list them in alphabetical order by restaurant.

Austins Steakhouse
Long one of my favorite overall restaurants in town, Austins at Texas Station has two cuts of meat that are near the top of any list I can make involving steak. One is their filet, so tender that you can cut it with a fork, and the other is the 24-ounce rib eye. Both are simply fantastic.

Delmonico
The bone-in rib eye steak is one of the priciest things on Emeril Lagasse’s steakhouse at The Venetian, but the Creole seasonings do in fact kick this up enough of a notch that it is totally worth it.

Fix
This Bellagio restaurant is not a traditional steakhouse, but they have some of the best steaks in town all cooked over a cherry wood flame that gives them a unique and delicious flavor.

Hugo’s Cellar
The ten ounce filet at this Four Queens restaurant is served with a béarnaise sauce that is out of this world, and I’m not usually a fan of béarnaise so that’s saying a lot.

The Steakhouse
This long-time favorite at Circus Circus doesn’t do a lot of fancy tricks with its filet, but their traditional preparation is what makes it special in its own way with a smoky, wood-fire flavor that will make you polish your plate.

Strip House
The cheeky bordello/stripper theme at this Planet Hollywood restaurant is fun, but it’s their 14 ounce filet, so peppery that the exterior almost crunches, that made me want to go back again and again.

Texas de Brazil
I’m going off the reservation for this last one by talking about non-traditional steak. But just because it’s done Brazilian style, served on a skewer by gaucho wearing waiters, doesn’t change the fact that the bacon-wrapped filet is one of the best cuts of meat I’ve had anywhere in town.
http://vegas4visitors.com/column/index.htm

The best prices are usually coming through the mail and those prices are often zero.

A lot of people don’t join the casino players’ clubs because they are gun shy about providing personal information, don’t want the junk mail, or just don’t think it’s worth it the hassle. I’m here to tell you that it totally is.

I’m a moderate gambler at best, usually spending my time on the dollar slots and at one table game (three card poker). Granted, I had a really good 2008 in terms of slot jackpots so I had more to pump back into the machines than I usually do, but still I’m not anywhere close to what you might call a high roller and yet every day my mailbox is stuffed to overflowing with offers for free rooms, gifts, show tickets, tournaments, and more.

Here are a few samples:

A complimentary three night stay in March at Planet Hollywood and a $150 Neiman Marcus gift card
A complimentary three night stay in May at The Flamingo for a slot tournament with $35,000 in cash and diamonds up for grabs
Three nights at Wynn Las Vegas or Encore in April plus up to $200 per night in food and beverage credits and entry to a $100,000 slot tournament
Three nights at Monte Carlo plus dinner at any of their restaurants.
Three nights at Mandalay Bay plus $175 in “Free Play” and a complimentary spa treatment
Three nights in May at any Harrah’s casino and a $100 gift card for use at the Forum Shops
Two nights in April at any Harrah’s casino and tickets to the 2009 Epicurean Affair food event
Three nights at Bellagio, a welcome gift, and a cocktail reception plus entries into a drawing for one of night vacation packages that include everything from airfare to show tickets to cash and more
Three nights at New York New York plus dinner for two at Brand Steakhouse at Monte Carlo and drinks at Rok nightclub Three nights at the Venetian or Palazzo plus $250 in slot credits
Three nights at Caesars plus tickets to Bette Midler or Elton John
Three nights at either Red Rock Resort or Green Valley Ranch
Four nights at any Harrah’s hotel and a free 15” LCD TV/DVD combo

It's been a long time since Bette Midler played the stage of The Continental Bath in the basement of the Ansonia Hotel in New York City. Known then as the beloved Bathhouse Betty, Midler is now the self-proclaimed "people's diva" and graces the stage of The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, a venue that can hold more than 4,000 people.

The Divine Miss M hardly needs an introduction as the woman has been quite relevant in pop culture over the last 30-some years. From movies and television to radio and concert halls across the world, Midler truly is the consummate showgirl. And no other place are we reminded of this more than at her Vegas headlining gig, The Showgirl Must Go On.

Midler's rapport with the audience is genuine and at times comical. Her comedic side shines as she delivers the one-two punchlines in between outstanding musical numbers. She notes that 30 years ago her fans were all on drugs…now they're all on medication. But the beauty of Bette is that her career has joyfully survived and thrived. Relish a handful of hits like her cool, smooth jazz rendition of "Do You Wanna Dance," the heartbreaking anthem "The Rose," her poignant hit "From A Distance" and her No. 1 Record of the Year, "Wind Beneath My Wings." A much-deserved standing ovation is bestowed upon Midler for her immaculate rendition of "When a Man Love a Woman" and electric currents of excitement fill the venue when Midler gives the nation a salute with the song "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy."

She's accompanied by a glorious cast of dancers, known as the Caesar Salad Girls, and a trio of back-up singers and dancers, The Harlettes. The sidekicking showgirls help Midler pull off her reprised role of wheelchair-using mermaid Delores Delago and her quest to make her Vegas headlining debut. And potty-mouthed, wisecracking yet lovable and insightful Soph, the oldest living showgirl, makes a much-anticipated appearance. A tender moment is when the ruckus slows, the theater is quiet and Midler takes a seat at the edge of the stage, pulls out her ukulele and performs "Glory of Love."

When the final feather flits across the stage of Tropicana's Tiffany Theater, March 27, Karen Marentic will feel as though the curtain is closing on a part of her family, and ending an era. Marentic has had a role in Folies Bergere for 15 years, and knows each position in it, from acrobatics to dancing and everything in between.

"I'm sad to see the show go," she said. "I really do feel like we're losing so much history in Las Vegas."

The show has a rich history outside of Vegas, too, stemming from the legendary cabaret in Paris, which opened in 1869. The Vegas run began in 1959 at the Tropicana, inspiring its reputation as "Home of the Most Beautiful Women in the World."

Directed and choreographed by Jerry Jackson, Folies has attracted international attention for its luxurious costumes, talented entertainers and, of course, its toplessness (today a covered show is also offered). The show is a tribute to gorgeous women through the ages. An energetic cast of men and women dance, sing and flip through time, wearing elaborate costumes dating back to the fashion of the 1860s. The Folies showgirls have become a true Las Vegas icon.

Now, as it approaches its 50th year, the show is bidding Las Vegas adieu. As Marentic looks back through the years, she remembers the humor. Like the times when a couple of different dancers forgot they were performing in a "covered" show and left their tops behind (they, heh, covered the gaff and made it through the act thanks to strategic placement of props).

But most of all she'll remember the friendships. At 32, Marentic has been performing in the show since she was 16. That's how she put herself through college, and then graduate school. Now, Marentic has held a full-time job as a music teacher for the last 10 years but just hasn't been able to walk away from the show. Performing with Folies has become her way of life.

For the last few weeks, she and the other 80 cast and crew members have been counting down the shows until their finale. Some talk about trying out for shows on cruise ships, or heading to L.A. or New York, while others consider moving back to their hometowns. Regardless, they're all aware that paths will drift apart.

Marentic isn't sure what the next chapter holds for her. She may just sit back and relish teaching for a while. Whatever she does, the nights of 10 p.m. performances four times a week will most likely be behind her now. And that could be a good thing.

"It's going to be hard to figure out what to do," she says. "I actually may go to bed at a normal time."
http://lvshowbiz.com/

The Orleans Hotel and Casino will host Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend. Now in its 12th year, and bigger and more exciting than ever. After 11 years in its original location at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, the event is moving to a larger venue — The Orleans, another Boyd Gaming property. This four-day event begins Thursday, April 9th and the party won’t stop until Monday morning.

Viva Las Vegas is an annual event that has been held in Las Vegas every spring since 1998. VLV is the largest event of its type in the world, and features bands and fans from all over the globe who come to experience Rockabilly, ‘50s music, the Classic Car Show, burlesque performers, dance lessons and contests, a Tiki Pool Party and more than 120 vendors.

Viva Las Vegas is organized by veteran promoter and Rockabilly DJ Tom Ingram, who also organizes Rockabilly Rave USA and Sin City London. “Boyd Gaming has been a fantastic partner for Viva Las Vegas over the past 11 years. Due to the high demand of previous Rockabilly Weekends, we decided the time is right to move our event to a larger venue, and The Orleans is an ideal location.” Ingram commented.

VLV will feature more than 50 bands and 15 DJs who will perform nightly between the hours of 1 p.m. and 7 a.m. Entertainers include stars of Rockabilly, legends of Rock ‘N Roll and current Rockabilly bands from all over the world. Saturday’s Classic Car Show has historically been the most attended event during the weekend, with more than 20,000 people in attendance during previous years.
http://reportonvegas.com/

America's Got Talent has made a real statement with Terry Fator, who has signed a multi-million dollar contract, like one hundred million, with the Mirage. Terry's act, the puppets, his take-off on the Commodores, and his Sonny and Cher bit with Lou Ferigno, (TV's Incredible Hulk), all great fun. The puppets are your winner, darling.

Still waiting for the previews of the PeepShow at Planet Hollywood. Jerry Mitchell assures me this show is going to be full of fun and a whole new take on entertainment for Las Vegas. Tickets are on sale now for previews begining March 30 and a grand opening in mid April.

Planet Hollywood is also featuring Trent Carlini, who is one of the very best Elvis impersonators we've seen, at the Steve Wyrick Theater. Tony and Tina's Wedding continues at Planet Hollywood and is doing good business.

Karen and Tony and the Society of Seven will be appearing at the Suncoast, April 10-12 and may soon announce an entirely new venture. The Society of Seven was a huge hit at the Flamingo and their fans will seek them out when they land a new spot. Tony and Karen are two of the most wonderful people I've met here in Las Vegas and I'm eager to support their wonderful act from Hawaii.

A former member of Society of Seven, Lani Misalucha, will be appearing with Earl Turner at the Las Vegas Hilton in the Shimmer Cabaret starting April 14. Las Vegas regulars are familiar with Earl Turner and have always appreciated Earl's singing style…. he's smooth alright. Listening to Lani's three octave voice is, as always a great experience.. Word is that her departure from Society of Seven didn't come easy for Lani..

The Las Vegas Hilton continues to expand their entertainment offerings. Vintage Vegas might be the latest show featured. The show is a creation of both Glen Medas who is the Entertainment Director and Michael Chambers choreographer and director. It will feature eight gorgeous ladies and a live band. It's a 9:00 PM show at the Shimmer Showroom starting April 24. I said Vintage Vegas which is another way of saying topless.

The Amazing Jonathan has built his own "drive-in" theater at his classic auto warehouse. The decor, giant screen , and vintage cars create the the complete "drive-in" experience, including a concession stand.

The Siegfried & Roy ABC television special on 20/20, Keep Memory Alive, was a farewell performance that was heartfelt. Roy truly is on the mend. When you see the old photos of Roy with those beautiful animals we can see the tragedy in all of it. Siegfried & Roy were and will always be entertainment icons of Las Vegas.

On the funny side of the street Bobby Slayton closed his show at Hooters. His final performance was edgy, informative, and included a thank you to Hooters for the two successful years he enjoyed there. In short, the pit bull of comedy did not disappoint his fans. He will be moving over to his own room at the Tropicana after touring for several weeks. Slayton will be the resident headliner at this new room and will also be booking other comedy acts.

Just in- Adam Steck, who produces, among others, Louie Anderson and Thunder From Down Under, will be bringing in a new show to the Imperial Palace. That's great news , as we need to keep these showrooms open and Adam's productions are always entertaining.

On April 15 the non profit Liberace Foundation will be celebrating their 30th Anniversary of the Liberace Museum. It will be an all day affair and a great chance to view all the bling this master entertainer collected throughout his career. The Foundation has helped scholars all across the United States and even dozens of UNLV alumni.
http://reportonvegas.com/

O'Sheas Casino next to the Flamingo has introduced a new 70-minute production show, "FREAKS," that is produced by hypnotist Anthony Cools. The unusual show features extreme "freakish" human behavior including human shish-kabobs, glass eating, contortionists, knife throwing and sword swallowing.

"FREAKS" is adult-oriented and includes partial nudity, adult language and graphic stunts. "FREAKS" is performed at 9 and 11 p.m., Wednesday – Saturday. Ticket prices start at $29.95, call 702-733-3333.

The Liberace Museum at 1775 E. Tropicana Avenue will celebrate its 30-year anniversary on Wednesday, April 15, with a full day of festivities that will include festivities, free performances by Liberace scholarship recipients and Liberace Piano Competition winners, and 30-cent museum admission from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Philip Fortenberry, composer and "Jersey Boys" pianist, will perform his "Liberace and Me" cabaret show at 1 p.m. The Liberace Museum will also debut a new 30th Anniversary Exhibit to run through May 31 commemorating three decades of milestones since 1979.

Evening festivities from 5 to 6 p.m. will feature a celebrity and invited guest "red carpet reception" that will be open to the public is encouraged to the public. A ticketed event will follow with live entertainment from 7-9 p.m. in the Liberace Museum Cabaret Showroom with "Liberace through the Years – The Friends and the Music" hosted by and with performances by Lorraine Hunt-Bono, Dennis Bono, "Jersey Boys" cast members Keith Thompson, Philip Fortenberry, Erich Bergen, and other friends from the Broadway community. To purchase tickets, call 702-798-5595 ext. 14 and proceeds will benefit the Liberace Foundation.

Liberace opened his museum on Easter Sunday, April 15, 1979. The bulk of Liberace's estate when he passed away on Feb. 4, 1987, was left to help talented people in the arts. As a result, $5.2 million has been awarded to date by the Liberace Foundation to 2,500 students deemed "Liberace Scholars" from 120 colleges and universities across the United States.

This month, Binion's Gambling Hall & Hotel downtown is celebrating its one-year anniversary under new ownership. The legendary property that was bought in 1951 by Texas gambler, Benny Binion, was purchased in March 2008 by the same company that owns the Four Queens downtown.

Since taking over, the new owners have been revitalizing and remodeling. In the last year, Binion's has completely remodeled the famous 24th floor steakhouse including a new menu and wine list, unveiled the brand new Hall of Fame Poker Room, opened a new race and sports book, introduced the stylish new Benny's Bullpen Sports Bar & Cigar Lounge, revamped its beloved $1 Million Display, added new table games, reconfigured the casino floor, and purchased the very latest slot and video poker machines.

By ARNOLD M. KNIGHTLY/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL

Station Casinos plans to file for bankruptcy by April 15, the gaming company said Monday in a federal court filing.

Station's filing came in response to a lawsuit filed by an individual bondholder challenging the gaming company's debt swap and prepackaged bankruptcy proposal.

Station spokeswoman Lori Nelson, however, said Wednesday that the court response does not indicate any change in the company's plans.

"Nothing has changed in our process," Nelson said. "We're continuing to negotiate with our bondholders. The prepackaged bankruptcy is just one scenario that could happen on or before that date."

It's no surprise when a producer passes along audience reviews such as:
A. "Cute."

B. "Beautiful."

C. "Romantic."

It is a surprise when those descriptions match up to:

A. Darts that appear to shoot from a woman's nether regions.

B. Glass eating.

C. A his-and-hers arm skewering.

This is why hypnotist Anthony Cools is proud of his new show "Freaks," which he says is different from any carnival tent or Jim Rose show you might have seen before.

More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41483472.html

Fator's skills remain top notch, but his humor is needlessly divisive.
By Mike Weatherford/Las Vegas Review Journal

Some people just won't go see a ventriloquist, no matter how good he is. Their minds won't be changed by the success of Terry Fator (or Jeff Dunham, for that matter).

And that's not such a bad thing. It just gives everyone else a better chance of getting in.

The insanely popular Fator doesn't reinvent ventriloquism. But he does bring it one killer new twist, fusing it with impressions. From the time he launches the show with a little-girl puppet singing a full-voiced "At Last" — the same stunt that started him on the "America's Got Talent" road to fame — audiences are in the grip of this nice guy from Texas who can sing like Axl Rose on "Sweet Child O' Mine" or Amy Winehouse on "Rehab," all without moving his lips.

But there are limits to the form; it's still a guy with his hand up a puppet. And the comedy doesn't hold its own without the gimmick. Fator's genius is to celebrate this instead of trying to subvert or ignore it. The posters of him with a cute puppet amount to truth in advertising, and they pre-sort audiences for him.

More here:
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41554522.html

ESPEE'S GOURMET TAMALES
4275 S. Durango Drive; 492-1400

We really liked the atmosphere and service — and most of the food — at Espee's, but we just wish a place that promised "gourmet tamales" offered some more exotic offerings. That said, we enjoyed the quesadilla, puffy taco, chile relleno, pork tamale and even the turkey tamale, with some reservations on the latter. Oh, and we loved the mango salsa with our chips. (2/27/09)

Overall: B $$

HUGO'S CELLAR
Four Queens, 202 Fremont St.; 385-4011

A dip in service after a change in ownership a few years back has been reversed, we're happy to say, and Hugo's Cellar has returned to its rightful place as the downtown spot that best perpetuates all that was good about Old Las Vegas. The Hot Rock Specialty is a long tradition that was even better than we remembered (the stone seasoned with chopped shallots and used to cook fish, beef, chicken and shrimp) and we liked the Duckling Anise Flambe and the classic Veal Oscar. Oh, and one of the best things about Hugo's — the tableside salad cart. (2/13/09)

Overall: A $$$$

PRIMARILY PRIME RIB
South Point, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 797-8075

The food at Primarily Prime Rib is pretty decent but the water is awful. Just awful. That said, our shrimp cocktail had five large, succulent shrimp, off-the-boat fresh and just firm enough; onion rings were crisp and sweet; a South Point cut of prime rib was decently flavored and reasonably priced and although we thought a blackened Cajun-style prime rib a little too tame, that's much better than being a little too wild. (7/18/08)

Overall: B $$

RED SQUARE
Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 632-7407

Red Square isn't exactly authentic — though, to be fair, an authentic Russian restaurant would be a tough sell on the Strip — but it's gorgeous inside and a lot of fun and serves good food to boot. Particularly worthy of note: the grilled Caesar salad, steak tartare, chicken Kiev, Adzhika Pork and Strawberries Romanoff. (7/20/07)

Overall: B $$$
http://www.lvrj.com/neon/41554537.html

MIKE WEATHERFORD: Magician setting illusions on fire.

Las Vegas' headline-generating, gin-loving Mayor Oscar Goodman will join Madame Tussauds' collection of wax celebrities today.

The former mob attorney, who has served as mayor for a decade, will be inducted into the permanent collection.

Goodman's likeness will be part of the launch of the "Viva Vegas" celebrities who have elevated the city's fame.

Madame Tussauds said "Viva Vegas" represents one of the most ambitious and interactive presentations in the attraction's 10-year history in town.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/41816652.html