By Judy Thorburn This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
Director of Communications - Nevada Film Alliance
http://www.theflickchicks.com
VEGAS HAPPENINGS
by Judy Thorburn
Mac King Celebrates 13 Years of Laughter and Magic at Harrah's Las Vegas
Comedy magician Mac King celebrated thirteen years of performing his “Mac King Comedy Magic Show” at Harrah's on Saturday afternoon, May 11. Throughout the years, the talented and engaging entertainer has consistently delivered a family friendly afternoon show comprised of an unusual combination of quirky humor, visual gags, like his “cloak of invisibility”, and astounding sleight of hand for people of all ages to enjoy.
Mac King
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mac King with young audience volunteer
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mac King "Cloak of Invisibility" trick with audience volunteers
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
After a special show, Christian Stuart, Harrah’s regional vice president and assistant general manager presented King with a cake and a proclamation from Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman naming May 11, 2013 “Mac King 13th Anniversary Day” in Las Vegas. King also received certificates of commendation from Governor Brian Sandoval and United States Senator Dean Heller. “I am very honored and grateful to be celebrating my 13th anniversary and I feel lucky to have landed here at Harrah’s Las Vegas. I have made several mighty great pals in this city and it’s because of you I am able to continue doing what I love to do – perform magic,” said King. “A big thank you to all my pals and fans who have come out to support comedy and magic in the afternoon. I look forward to making more memories here at Harrah’s Las Vegas and I really am the luckiest boy on earth.”
Mac King
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
To top it off, King's daughter Elizabeth presented her father with thirteen roses in honor of “thirteen years of amazing shows and for being the best dad in the world.”
Mac King's daughter Elizabeth give him 13 roses
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mac King's goldfish cake
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Several of King’s celebrity pals helped him celebrate the momentous occasion on the red carpet including: the cast of Million Dollar Quartet, Defending the Caveman’s Kevin Burke, the cast of Chippendales, Maren Wade from iCandy Burlesque, Mark Shunock from Rock of Ages and his wife Cheryl Daro, Eric and Jayne Post from Marriage Can Be Murder, and more. King then performed a special show for his pals and guests of the hotel where he presented the newest member of the cast – Colonel Sanders.
King began his full-time one-man show “The Mac King Comedy Magic Show” at Harrah’s Las Vegas in 2000. Since then, King has performed an unprecedented 6,760 shows to more than one million audience members at the main showroom at Harrah’s Las Vegas.
This translates to:
· 3,380 days of plaid suits worn
· 20,280 feet of rope used for King’s famous rope trick
· 351,520 playing cards
· 20,280 magically appearing fig newton pastries
· And 33,800 audience volunteers!
Mac King with his wife and daughter
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mac King with cast members of Million Dollar Quartet
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
iCandy's Maren Wade
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mac King and Defending the Caveman's Kevin Burke
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mac King with Chippendale's Gavin McHale and Jonny Howes
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Marriage Can Be Murder's Eric and Jayne Post
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
“Harrah’s Las Vegas is proud to have served as home to Mac King for the past 13 years. He is not only an exceptional entertainer who has entertained more than a million audience members since opening here at Harrah’s, but he is also an accomplished writer and an outstanding citizen who is an avid supporter of literacy programs. Harrah’s Las Vegas hopes to serve as his home several more years,” said Christian Stuart, Harrah’s regional vice president and assistant general manager.
Kevin Burke, Star of the One Man Show, Defending the Caveman, Turns Over His Spear
After 10 years of performing as the production’s leading caveman, including 7 years in Las Vegas, Kevin Burke, star of the one man show, Defending the Caveman, inside the Improv Showroom at Harrah’s Las Vegas turned over his spear. His last full-time performance in the Las Vegas show was Monday, May 13 with a special show that was followed by a ceremonial passing of the spear to Burke’s successor, Chris Allen, and video footage of local celebrities, including Mac King, Jeff Civillico, Carrot Top, and George Wallace saying goodbye to Burke. Burke recently made the Guinness Book of World Records for the most theatrical performances in a fifty day span. With 60 consecutive show performances, he beat the previous Guinness Record of 50 in Britain that ended Dec. 7.
Kevin Burke
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Kevin Burke passes the spear to his successor Chris Allen
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Damian Costa, Regional Director of Entertainment Operations at Caesars Entertainment presented Kevin Burke with a proclamation from Mayor Carolyn Goodman declaring May 13 Kevin Burke Day. Burke was also honored with proclamations from Senator Dean Heller and Governor Brian Sandoval. Choked up with emotion and with tears in his eyes, Burke responded by saying,”From the time I was 12 years old I knew I wanted a show in Las Vegas. This has been incredible. The folks (at Harrah's) have been so good and taken such good care of me. I don't know how to thank you.”
Kevin Burke
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Damian Costa, Regional Director of Entertainment Operations at Caesars Entertainment, Kevin Burke and producer John Bentham
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Afterwards, everyone in the audience was invited to enjoy a piece of ceremonial cake and champagne.
Although he is retiring from the Las Vegas show, Burke will continue to perform select limited engagements in the National Broadway Tour of Defending the Caveman in the future.
Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Crowned at Fremont Street Experience
Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., Las Vegas' famed Fremont Street Experience and the celebrated tribute artist production "Legends in Concert,” celebrating its 30th birthday, presented the 4th Annual Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Downtown Las Vegas, on Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11. The only Las Vegas EPE-sanctioned preliminary round of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest had 19 Elvi from around the world competing for a chance to advance to the finals held during Elvis Week 2013 in Memphis.
Guest judges Linda Thompson, Elvis’ long-time girlfriend, and personal bodyguard Sam Thompson, determined the ‘best representation of the Elvis legacy’ based on vocals, style, stage wear, and stage presence.
On Saturday, the top 10 competed and Las Vegas resident Chad Collins was crowned Las Vegas’ ‘King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’ winning $2,500 cash, a Graceland Getaway prize package and most importantly, qualifies to compete in the 2013 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest presented by EPE in Memphis, Tenn. during Elvis Week 2013 held August 10-17. The winner of the contest will be offered the opportunity to sign a performance contract with “Legends in Concert,” $20,000 cash, recognition by EPE as the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist of 2013 and a selection of other valuable prizes.
The eclectic singer/songwriter duo and Billboard’s “Top New Artist Albums” charting artist Brandon and Leah treated audiences to a performance on Fremont Street Experience’s 3rd stage, kicking off this year’s event. Other ‘Kingly’ festivities at Fremont Street Experience during the weekend included special presentations on the Viva Vision canopy and a parade of Elvi at the beginning of each night’s competition.
Chad Collins – On Saturday, May 11, Las Vegas Resident Chad Collins, was named the Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist at Fremont Street Experience and now qualifies to compete in the 2013 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest presented by EPE in Memphis, Tenn. during Elvis Week 2013, held August 10-17.
Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest – Contestants competing in the 4th Annual Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest at Fremont Street Experience pose underneath the Viva Vision canopy. Nineteen “Elvis” contestants competed and Las Vegas Resident Chad Collins was named the Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist and now qualifies to compete in the 2013 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest presented by EPE in Memphis, Tenn. during Elvis Week 2013, held August 10-17.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
Up and coming pop sensation AFTER ROMEO Las Vegas natives Drew Ryan Scott and Jayk Purdy as well as Devin Fox, TC Carter and Blake English will make appearances throughout Clark County School District and Galleria at Sunset May 15 – 18. The band is currently involved with anti-bullying awareness campaigns and promoting positive attitudes to teens. The band's lead single, "Free Fall," tells the story of someone's struggle to go for their goals and dreams by not letting anything or anyone hold them back.
The schedule of dates and locations are s follows:
Wed., May 15
Liberty High School, 3700 Liberty Heights Avenue, Henderson
Performing at both lunch assemblies (arriving at 9 a.m.)
Thurs., May 16
Silverado High School, 1650 Silver Hawk Avenue, Las Vegas
Performing at 8:30 a.m.
Molasky Middle School, 7801 W. Gilmore Avenue, Las Vegas
Performing at both lunch assemblies (arriving at 10:30 a.m.)
Fri., May 17
Foothill High School, 800 College Drive, Henderson
Performing at both lunch assemblies (arriving at 7:30 a.m.)
Schofield Middle School, 8625 Spencer Street, Las Vegas
Performing for all lunch assemblies and speak to choir classes
Sat., May 18 – FREE SHOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Galleria at Sunset Mall, 1300 W. Sunset Road, Henderson
Performance at 1:00 p.m.
Meet & Greet / Signing from 1:30 – 3 p.m.
Grammy Award-winning BLUES TRAVELER performs at the Henderson Pavilion (200 S. Green Valley Parkway) 8 p.m, Friday, May 17. The concert will feature greatest hits and new music from Suzie Cracks the Whip album. Tickets are $15.
The 2013 Super Summer Theatre opens its 38th season with two performances of “BROADWAY MEETS HOLLYWOOD” on Friday, May 17th & Saturday, May 18th at the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park (located 10 miles west of 215 on Charleston). BROADWAY MEETS HOLLYWOOD: A look at some of the hits from past Super Summer Theatre musicals that have appeared both on stage and the silver screen. This mini-concert will provide audiences with a glimpse into “backstage life” during the creation process. As our performers begin to arrive for their final rehearsal, the stage takes shape, the lights are set and the cast is finally ready for this season’s Opening Night. Produced by United Production Works. Parking opens at 5 PM; Meadow seating opens at 6 PM Show starts at 7:30 PM. A limited number of tickets are available at the gate the night of the show for $12.
Guests are encouraged to throw down a blanket, or bring/rent a chair in general-admission grass seating where many share a picnic dinner, and enjoy the outdoors before settling in under the stars for some super theatre.
Brazilian supermodel and Macy’s INC Brand Ambassador Camila Alves,McConaughey together with Ramshackle Glam Editor Jordan Reid, host AN AFTERNOON OF FASHION AND FUN AT MACY'S FASHION SHOW in Las Vegas 2 p.m on Saturday , May 18. The afternoon kicks off with a fashion show at the mall’s Great Hall Stage (located on the Second Level) featuring the latest Spring ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes and jewelry from Macy’s INC. Directly following, guests are invited back to the mall’s Macy’s store for a shopping party, where they can enjoy refreshments, discounts on INC purchases, and a meet-and-greet with Camila Alves. One lucky guest will win an on-the-spot Macy’s INC shopping spree with Camila Alves, Ramshackle Glam’s Jordan Reid, and an INC specialist ($500 value).
Camilla Alves
Fremont Street Experience’s Rock of Vegas concert series will kick-off the summer early with the first show set for Sunday, May 19 featuring THEORY OF A DEADMAN. FUEL AND LIT will perform on May 25; Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the FREE concert series has become one of the most popular summertime events in Las Vegas.
FANTASY, the sizzling adult revue at Luxor Hotel & Casino will honor the nation’s military by kicking off an alluring offer on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27. For the price of one ticket, (starting at $39) the sexy show will thank veterans and active-duty military with two tickets to “The Strip’s Biggest Tease,” a 2013 “Barely Bejeweled” calendar and a behind-the-scenes DVD. Honoring the military is especially important to FANTASY headliner Lorena Peril, whose brother Marco Anguiano recently finished his third tour of duty as a Gunnery Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. The tempting offer will be available Memorial Day through the end of June for guests with valid military ID.
Legendary comedian and impersonator RICH LITTLE has announced “Jimmy Stewart & Friends” has once again been extended at LVH – Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. The hilarious one-man show will conclude its run at the Shimmer Cabaret through July 1, 2013.
Las Vegas’ sexiest show, PEEPSHOW at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is pleased to announce its curvaceous starlet, COCO of E!’s “Ice Loves Coco” will remain in the sparkling shoes of “Bo Peep” through September 1.
Due to popular demand, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has extended ANDREW DICE CLAY’s one-of-a-kind residency at Vinyl with 28 additional shows. Fans will continue to be thrilled by Clay’s fresh, timely material, signature shocking jokes and controversial topics now through Sept. 1.
World Series of Fighting will hit The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas with a stacked world-class MIXED MARTIAL ARTS (MMA) EVENT headlined by a welterweight (170 pounds) rematch between superstars Jon Fitch (24-5) of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Josh “The People’s Warrior” Burkman (25-9) of Salt Lake City, Utah, on Friday, June 14, live on NBC Sports Network, beginning at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT.
In the light heavyweight co-main event, hard-hitting, 27-year-old Tyrone “King of the Ring” Spong (1-0) of Boca Raton, Fla., via Suriname, a decorated champion and veteran of 77 professional kickboxing bouts, will make his much-anticipated, second start under MMA rules against fellow KO artist Angel “The Dream” DeAnda (11-2) of Oakdale, Calif. Tickets are priced from $29 (plus applicable service fees).
Multi-talented entertainer and showman EARL TURNER returns to the Suncoast Showroom June 15 and 16.
Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available starting from $15.95, plus tax and convenience fees.
Country pioneer RAY PRICE takes the stage and plays classic country western music at Veil Pavilion inside Silverton Casino Hotel on Saturday, June 15 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 General Admission.
“WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN; CARPENTERS REMEMBERED” a tribute to popular 70s music group The Carpenters, starring Michelle Bertling Brett as Karen, and accompanied by a live band of versatile Nashville musicians led by Harry Sharpe. will perform in the Suncoast Showroom June 22 and 23. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available starting from $15.95, plus tax and convenience fees.
Celebrity Sightings:
Wednesday night, May 8...
Baseball legend, Reggie Jackson, dropped by Rockhouse, located at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian.
Reggie Jackson
Photo courtesy of Rockhouse
Thursday, May 9...
Early in the afternoon, Legendary hip hop artist, Lil’ Kim spotted enjoying some fun in the sun at Palms Pool inside Palms Casino Resort.
Lil Kim sips on Miami Vice cocktail while hanging out in her cabana at the Palms Pool.
Photo courtesy of 9Group
Friday night, May 10...
TV personality and actress Audrina Patridge was spotted celebrating her 28th birthday with friends and family, including sister Casey Loza, at TAO Asian Bistro.
Saturday, May 11...
GRAMMY Award-winning headliner Calvin Harris took over Sin City’s hottest daytime destination WET REPUBLIC spinning his hits for the masses into the early hours of the evening. Also found in the DJ booth was celebrated DJ TJR as he kicked off the party.
Calvin Harris
Photo credit: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC.
DJ TJR
Photo credit: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC.
The restaurant at Hakkasan Las Vegas at MGM Grand was packed with A-Listers. Singer and songwriter Ke$ha threw a surprise birthday party for one of her creative directors in the private dining room. Emmy Award-winning actor Kelsey Grammer and wife Kayte Walsh along with actress Vanessa Hudgens and boyfriend Austin Butler of “The Carrie Diaries” also dined at the restaurant for a mutual friend’s birthday.
In the main room of the nightclub Dutch DJs the Bingo Players headlined that night with their “Hysteria” event series, exclusive to Hakkasan Las Vegas.
In another VIP table on the stage was Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose.
Meanwhile Jace One manned the decks in the Ling Ling Club and spun an eclectic set to the packed room, which was also filled with celebrities and all-star athletes includingWanya Morris of Boyz II Men with his wife; boxing greats Andre Betro and Jean Pascal, and Caron Butler of the Los Angeles Clipppers.
Ashley Vu cocktail server with Axl Rose
Photo Credit: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC/angelmg.com
Kelsey Grammer, Kayte Walsh, Olivier and Austin Butler
Photo Credit: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC/angelmg.com
Bingo Players
Photo Credit: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC/angelmg.com
Jace One
Photo Credit: Al Powers of Powers Imagery LLC/angelmg.com
British pop sensation Olly Murs made his Las Vegas debut at Angel Management Group’s award-winning nightspot PURE Nightclub. Arriving to the hot spot around 1 a.m. the UK superstar was escorted into a private room where he warmed up for his first-ever Sin City performance along with backup vocalists Darren Heelis and Josh Wilkinson.
Olly Murs
Photo credit: Brenton Ho of Powers Imagery LLC.
Olly Murs performing
Photo credit: Brenton Ho of Powers Imagery LLC.
Lance Bass was spotted at TAO Asian Bistro & Nightclub celebrating a friend's birthday.
Mixed martial artist and UFC star Forrest Griffin was spotted dining at Hussong’s Cantina & Taqueria.
Forrest Griffin
Photo courtesy of Hussong's Cantina & Taqueria
Sunday night, May 12...
English artist Charli XCX gave a special performance at LAVO’s Vice Sundays. Before performing at the club, the songstress dined at LAVO Italian Restaurant, with a group of friends.
Famed chef and restaurateur Todd English was also spotted at a VIP table at LAVO as well as UFC President Dana White who was seen at a table with a group of friends taking in the sounds of DJ Vice.
Charli XCX
Photo Credit: Brenton Ho, Powers Imagery
Charli XCX performing
Photo Credit: Brenton Ho, Powers Imagery
Monday afternoon, May 13...
Singer, songwriter and actor, Jesse McCartney, dined at TREVI, located at the heart of The Forum Shops at Caesars.
Wednesday afternoon, May 15...
Kandi Burruss, from the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” on BRAVO dined at TREVI, located at the heart of The Forum Shops at Caesars