Too much Of A Good Thing?

[Steve]

This week's Topic Of The Week question is:

Is Las Vegas over saturating it's visitors with too many of the same type shows?

There are about 5 Cirque shows, Comedy Clubs, Impersonator shows, magic shows, hypnotist shows and a few more.

Are all these shows basically the same, or is there a noticeable difference between them?

Steve

[Sherry]

Have only attended a couple of shows in Vegas. Yes there are too many show similiar and far to expensive to see top named entertainers, therefore, we do not attend. Thank you, Sherry

[vegasbabe]

Since the Cirque shows are all run by the same "company", they are all very consistant in the quality dept. However, the shows each have their own theme, and you may stumble into one in particular, that is a great production, but you may not enjoy it, based on its sexual content. (Zumanity)

Magicians that I've seen range from awesome, to down right comical--because they're so bad. Ticket prices are not necessarily a factor here either. Some of the cheaper shows are much better than the higher priced ones. I personally liked the magicians, jugglers, etc. that I saw, embedded within larger production shows. Jubilee and Follies to be specific.

Don't get me started on the hypnotists! I've been to 3 that have been awesome, 2 that have been downright disgusting--and 1 of those is still performing here--and 2 that have cancelled their shows after they had already begun. They stated: "we're sorry, but we just can't hypnotize anyone tonight." My favorite, Justin Tranz, is currently on hiatus, but he did a series of shows a few weeks ago, and he's still got it! I also really miss Dr. Naughty, and Naughty Jr.

[Turnip579]

I've said it many times. Vegas needs to mix it up more. Going downtown and seing the same old sax player, piano player, people flying thru the air ( Cirque ) is now old hat.

What it is exactly they need to do, I have no real clue. I just know that the same ol' same ol' is now OLD! :rolleyes:

[auntvonna]

While I think that there is getting to be an overkill of Cirque shows (even though they are somewhat different from one another), I think the variety of shows is great in Vegas! Sure, there are a lot of comedians, magic and musical acts, but they are very different from one another IMO. There are also the showgirl shows, the variety shows and the impersonator shows, not to mention the lounge acts. There is something for everyone!

[btonker]

yes, which i why i love the old vegas better. you had so many big name stars it was hard to see them all, they did 2 shows a night so you could go to one dinner show and then the late show at another place, i am lucky to have been out there at that time i saw them all...Frank,jerry, johnny, rodney, cher, ann margaret etc....but i always just missed elvis at the hilton!

[Zelda22]

Some shows & attractions can get pretty repetitious and boring for locals who take their out-of-town friends to the various Vegas venues many times throughout the year.
However, for folks who visit a couple of times a year or even less, these are fun memories that they want to see again and again, whether strolling Downtown or along The Strip.
Sure, downtown has its standing acts, but they are good ones, and they attract crowds each night, especially on the weekends. The bands change often, and special events are planned throughout the year.
The Downtown entertainment is a nice addition to the night life on Fremont St., and if you get tired of it, you can always go inside a casino and eat or gamble or take in one of the everchanging shows in the casinos there.
Some of the shows on The Strip are very similar, but there is enough variety with various shows coming & going, that there is something for everyone there too.
Some people never leave the casino they are staying at, so similar shows at each of the casinos offer what a visitor may want without having to get a cab and leave the property.
There's always room for improvement, but money talks, and as long as the showrooms make money and the outdoor entertainers attract the crowds who will gamble when the presentation is over, what major changes need to be made? ;)

[Lneck67]

Yes there are a few of the same kid of shows but the Cirque shows are different even though I am not that crazy about them but my wife and daughter are in love with them. I like the music shows at the Orleans where we have seen some good old singers like Frankie Avalon,Rightious Brothers, Frankie Valli and a few mor for a great price. 35-50 bucks each. We just got back from a trip and the impersonator Larry Jones was at the Fitz where a few years ago it was free now 39 bucks. Bottoms up now cost a pretty buck too. I guess there are the same kind of shows for different prices.

[JVegas]

There are still decent selections - Cirque, Blue Man Group, Rita Rudner, Carrot Top as well as the singers like Barry M. Celine D. or Elton or Billy Joel. Perhaps they could use a few more headliners to give those of us that have seen most of the shows and the locals more variety..

Prices are getting a little out of line though.

I just read that gambling in Vegas is down. I suspect it's because so much money is going to other activities. The ticket prices to LOVE for 4 people are what I used to budget for my entire Vegas trip a few years ago!

Jim

[Boston_Bill]

I think there are too many of the same shows. I dont get the Fantasy shows. I mean are people just fooling themselves so they dont have to go to a strip club.
Ill take a lounge singer that can hold my attention anytime then spending a fortune to see a Cirque show.

[wa8ckt]

yes, which i why i love the old vegas better. you had so many big name stars it was hard to see them all, they did 2 shows a night so you could go to one dinner show and then the late show at another place, i am lucky to have been out there at that time i saw them all...Frank,jerry, johnny, rodney, cher, ann margaret etc....but i always just missed elvis at the hilton!

:) Yes I also love the old Vegas better. We also did the same thing with the head liners. Just could not get enough or catch enough each trip. Yes we also did the dinner show and then rush to get to a late show. ALSO missed Elvis always thinking one of the trips we would go see him. Even before the Hilton was the Hilton (it was the International back then). Thought he would be there forever! We are very lucky to have seen these great stars over the years. Now we still go to a show now and then but have seen most of the production shows that change very little. Have seen Jubilee a zillion times and still like it. John in Caro

[KENOGURL48]

Yes, there are two many shows that are alike and for what ? No, I don't go to the shows because the tickets are outrageious, even for a nominal fee just to go see a A- OK headliner can run you $75.00 please I wish I would, so when I go to vegas and most times I do win, I go straight to : WALMART SUPERCENTER w/ my winnings.............DAMN THEM SHOWS.

[pateboo]

I swear, if Excalibur gets a Cirque show, I won't stay there anymore. I've seen all the big icons I wanted to over the years, the last one I was set on seeing was Howie Mandel. I saw him in June, he was funny sure, but every other word was the "F" word. And for that I paid good money. I can hear that for free any time. I expected much better from Howie, even for your typical Vegas act. My late mother would have left and demanded her money back.

[Jacqui, Duskette8]

I love the big production shows but too many of them are Cirque productions now. Some of the hotels/casinos should be different and get something new in. I'm sure people would enjoy something different since most big show announcements seem to be about new Cirque shows nowadays.

[dreamcatcheril]

There is a decent varity, but...

There are about 5 Cirque shows...
never saw one... At the cost of a ticket I don't plan on seeing one anytime soon.

I went to ringling brothers circus, I figure it's about the same with out the smell.

[cindyinnj]

Enough Cirque shows already. I've seen "O" and Mystere, and will see Love soon, but they need to calm down on the Cirque shows. As for magicians, comedians, impressionists, etc., the more the merrier. You have your choice who to see. I love comedy, so I'd love to see just about every comedy show there is. A few more headline "big" stars are needed too, this way you could see one every night you're there.

[talanhart]

I don't go see shows anymore, unless I get a free ticket or its greatly discounted.

[plaporta]

What I love about Vegas is that you can see a show on many different levels. There are lounge acts, cheap shows, shows you can get at the 1/2 price booths, headliner shows and everything in between. I recently went alone and paid $165 for a ticket to Love, but when my family is with me we look for less expensive shows.

Sure there are many of the same type of shows but they are all different; and price does not determine the quality. If anyone likes Prince, the Purple Reign show is inexpensive and one of the best I've seen in Vegas.

So look through all the brochures at the hotel and pick out a mix from each venue -- some will be great and some will miss the mark -- but that's the fun of Vegas - something is always going on.

Pat

[tryon4]

With the amount of visitors to the city each week I doubt there is a glut of types of shows.
Even for regulars there is always some show that you have yet to see. Some good, some bad.
We always look to places like the Orleans for their shows because they change all the time and offer a great variety.

[jolo777]

I think Vegas is trying to add new types of shows by having Broadway productions like the Producers and Momma Mia, but the fact is they do not do as well in Vegas as the Cirque shows and show-girl shows and headliners. I personally have not seen them all yet as it cuts into my gambling time:D. I do enjoy all of them when I do go and look forward to seeing a lot more. I just need to figure out how to go more often and stay longer to get it all in.

[zman14]

Far too many and far too expensive for what you are seeing. Need more variety shows and less magicians, and people flying thru the air. Even the Imperial Palace and their Legends show is getting old. Maybe for a first timer to Vegas it's OK but for someone who has been there more than few times it's the same old same old. I always found the Scintas a refreshing change and glad that they are back in town. I also found some of the afternoon shows entertaining and well worth the price of admission.

[tomadams]

Yes I agree the shows are pretty much the same however Vegas still has the best entertainment in the USA. My only complaint is Wayne Newton. I feel sorry for "old mr. las vegas". His show is terrible as well as his new look.

PS DON'T FORGET TO VOTE EVERYTHING LAS VEGAS AS BEST WEB SITE. STEVE DESERVES THE AWARD. THANKS

[ChicChas]

Too much of a good thing? Are you serious?

The entertainment choices offered in Las Vegas are astounding. There is something for everyone and plenty of it.

Too many Cirque shows? Then go see a magician. Too many magicians? Then go see a musical comedy. Too many musical comedies? Then go see a headliner. Too many headliners? Then go see a hypnotist. Too many hypnotists? Then go see a comedian. Too many comedians? Then go see a boobie show. Too many boobie shows? Then go see a Cirque show.

Plus, beyond the obvious places that most tourists stick to, there are plenty of local venues for concerts, plays, recitals, art galeries and the like.

For example, you'll find many excellent offerings at the nearby University of Las Vegas. Just this week, they are offering the following: Miss Nelson Missing (musical comedy), Leon Fliescher and the Escher Quartet, Madrigal Chamber Choir Festival, Tango Buenos Aires, Jason Vieux (guitarist), The Heiress (comedy theater), Musical Arts Society 45th Anniversary Concert and the University of LV Opera Workshop Concert. That's just this week and just at the University.

So if you're bored with what the Strip has to offer (?!?!?!?!?!?!?) open your eyes and look a little further. There is a whole, interesting city out there to explore.

[MHIROTSU]

Too many boobie shows?

You're kidding, right? There's no such thing as too many boobie shows!

For me, there are too many of the same types of shows but at the same time, there is still a large variety. But, people are going to all of these shows and apparently these shows are doing well, otherwise, they wouldn't still be running. I think the reason is that the average visitor to Las Vegas has changed to the once a year person rather than the frequent visitor. If you only visited Las Vegas once a year, you'd probably think there were too many shows.

And I've yet to hear a good explanation on how Celine Dion succeeded in Las Vegas!!!

Mike

[flamingofun]

I go to Vegas for the shows & have seen plenty over the years. Some repeats. There is a wide variety for any taste & ticket price. More than any city on the planet! Afternoon & free shows too, altho I've noticed free shows are disappearing. I pay the price for a Headliner! and a top production show. Cut back on gambling, food & shopping! Never leave un-entertained! Enough Cirque du Soleil shows already and it's way past time for Wayne Newton to retire. Barry Manilow is refreshing! Viva

[Dagobob]

As far as I am concerned, all these Circue shows are about the same. Save some cash and go and see a circus in your home town!!

[wilber]

I think all the shows in vegas are wonderful especially the hypnosits:cool:

[rlombardi2000]

And I've yet to hear a good explanation on how Celine Dion succeeded in Las Vegas!!!

Mike[/QUOTE]

Because her show is great! Have you seen it?

[MHIROTSU]

And I've yet to hear a good explanation on how Celine Dion succeeded in Las Vegas!!!

Mike

Because her show is great! Have you seen it?[/QUOTE]

I admit that I have not seen her show. But that's because I'm not a Celine Dion fan and I don't like her music. I don't doubt that she puts on a good show. And I understand that she would attract her fans. But I'm very surprised at the numbers that she has attracted.

Mike

[MHIROTSU]

And by the way, any statement I make about Celine Dion is not meant to be a dig on her. I just don't understand the attraction. I easily see her doing a show for a month or 2. But her longevity is surprising. And if you had asked me, before she started, whether her show would work, I would have said "no way." I was obviously wrong. So, someone has to explain to me why her show worked. And to further show my lack of business knowledge, I still don't understand Starbuck's.

I've stated all of this before on these boards, and my ignorance still exists.

Mike

[Jacqui, Duskette8]

I agree with you Mike. I'm not a fan of Celine Dion because it's not my style of music but I don't deny she has an amazing voice. I never did go to see her although now she's leaving I think I should have, just to say I had done it.

I'm also really, really surprised that she has managed to fill that theatre night after night for all these years. Although she has a fantastic voice, I have honestly yet to meet a person who, when you mention her name, say they like her. Most people I ask say they don't! That's not a reflection on Celine though because I know she has an amazing voice, it could just be the circle of friends that I have!

[MHIROTSU]

I'm also really, really surprised that she has managed to fill that theatre night after night for all these years. Although she has a fantastic voice, I have honestly yet to meet a person who, when you mention her name, say they like her. Most people I ask say they don't! That's not a reflection on Celine though because I know she has an amazing voice, it could just be the circle of friends that I have!

Jacqui, that is the part that amazes me. I'm still waiting for a good explanation. And the same with me when I ask people about Celine. Maybe we have the same friends.

Mike

[YJAJJ]

This week's Topic Of The Week question is:

Is Las Vegas over saturating it's visitors with too many of the same type shows?

There are about 5 Cirque shows, Comedy Clubs, Impersonator shows, magic shows, hypnotist shows and a few more.

Are all these shows basically the same, or is there a noticeable difference between them?

Steve

Well folks - Celine Dion - My wife has to see her each time we go - and she will see the 12/15 last Vegas show and today she reserved a sept 8th - 2008show in MI!

Yes all the Cirque showes we have seen have a lot in common - beats the heck out of me how they keep going! But what do I know with a wife that goes to Dion each trip!

As to the others the only ones I'll see are Comedy as we need to laugh in life
as it makes us feel good -

Not much in Vegas for me anymore December might be my last trip -

Just returned from 9 days at Disney land - now thats a blast with 8 kids that Vegas can't compare too!

Have a great turkey day -

jim j MI and looking for snow -

[pateboo]

I can't explain Celine's longevity any more than I can explain Siegfried and Roy's. I saw them many years ago, spent my hard earned $100.00 to do it too. I think Lance Burton was the much better deal all around. He was cheaper, put on a more entertaining show, and... came out to meet his fans after his last show. But someone must obviously like them, because they have all been around for a long time and make a heck of a lot more money than I do. :rolleyes:

[VegasBride]

You're kidding, right? There's no such thing as too many boobie shows!

For me, there are too many of the same types of shows but at the same time, there is still a large variety. But, people are going to all of these shows and apparently these shows are doing well, otherwise, they wouldn't still be running. I think the reason is that the average visitor to Las Vegas has changed to the once a year person rather than the frequent visitor. If you only visited Las Vegas once a year, you'd probably think there were too many shows.

And I've yet to hear a good explanation on how Celine Dion succeeded in Las Vegas!!!

Mike
How about $430 million!!!!

[VegasBride]

I have never been to see any of the big production shows, but my husband planned a whole trip around Little Feat at the House Of Blues a few years back. I just stayed at the casino (Mandalay Bay) and gambled. I would much rather do that than spend big bucks and time away from the games that I love to play. At least that way I have a chance of maybe getting some money back.;)