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
“The Cocktail Cabaret” Debuts at Cleopatra’s Barge in Caesars Palace
A VIP audience of celebrities and special guests packed the iconic Cleopatra’s Barge at Caesars Palace on Wednesday, December 13 during the red-carpet, invitation-only grand opening party of The Cocktail Cabaret”, an upbeat, stylish, intimate, musical cabaret-style revue, reminiscent of vintage Vegas, that I sure to be a hit for visitors and local alike.
The 70 minute show was designed to enhance the cocktail hour experience as a prelude to dinner, the theatre, special event or fun night on the town and features a combination of live original music and well-known stylized and re-imagined modern standards performed by four of the most powerhouse vocalists in Las Vegas. The talented cast includes Niki Scalera (“Hairspray,” “Tarzan” “We Will Rock You”), Maren Wade (“50 Shades! The Parody,” “Pin Up,” “Vegas! The Show””), rising multilingual classical/pop cross-over vocalist Daniel Emmet, who has commanded stages from The Staples Center in Los Angeles to the Palais Todesco in Vienna, and broadway, tour company veteran and Vegas performer Eric Jordan Young (“Rock of Ages,” “Vegas! The Show,” “Ragtime,” “CHICAGO,”), who also acts as the show's host, and a 4 piece back up band led by critically acclaimed concert pianist Philip Fortenberry with multiple Broadway credits, and was the Liberace hand/body double in HBO’s biopic, “Behind the Candelabra”
Daniel Emmet - Photo credit: Stephen Thorurn
Maren Wade - Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Eric Jordan Young - Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Niki Scalera - Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
To say this show is good would be an understatement. Fantastic is more like it and will leave audiences exclaiming “wow” by what they've experienced in this intimate setting. To begin with, each one of these dynamic performers deliver the goods in every way. Along with great chemistry when performing together, whether spotlighted as a solo, in duets or as a team, they deliver no less than outstanding and memorable vocal renditions of a variety of songs such as “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” “Viva Las Vegas,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” “That’s Life,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” a cocktail medley, a tribute to the blues and many more that will blow you away.
The grand opening night carpet sparkled with appearances by the producers of “The Cocktail Cabaret” Philip Fortenberry and Keith Thompson of PK Entertainment, with the show’s four singers, Broadway veterans Niki Scalera and Eric Jordan Young, Maren Wade, Daniel Emmet, the band, drummer Don Meoli (“Jersey Boys”), bassist Josh Jones (“Million Dollar Quartet”) and saxophonist Eric Tewalt (Celine Dion, “Jersey Boys”).
Philip Fortenberry - Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Among the many celebrities and VIPs in attendance were Harrah’s headliners from the cast of “Menopause The Musical” Jac Holland-Wright, Megan Cavanaugh, Lisa Mack, and Cherity Harchis; Vinnie Sr. of “Bronx Wanderers” and his wife,and Carol Adinolfi, Bruce Ewing, Randal Keith, Kevan Patriquin, Lucas Rangel all of “The Phat Pack,” headliners Melody Sweets, Chadwick Johnson, Jonathan Karrant, Mark Shunock (host Vegas Golden Nights, emcee for “Magic Mike" and founder of The Space), Rachel Tyler of “Lady Luck,” Michael Kessler and Melinda Jackson of M&M American Dance Company, Myron Martin and Paul Beard of The Smith Center, Dennis Bono, Barry Lather (B Rock Inc., choreographer for “Donny & Marie”), Brent Barrett (“Phantom of the Opera,” “The Producers,” “Kiss Me Kate,” “Chicago,” “Grand Hotel,” Amy Saunders of “Miss Behave,” Jassen Allen (“With Love Luther Vandross & Friends” and Monday’s Dark), Alan Glist, Kathi Glist and Ryan Patridge of GFour Productons, Blair Farrington, Beth Barbre of Nevada Ballet, Jeri Crawford of the Las Vegas Philharmonic, Jamie Fritz, John Bezerra, Juliana McRea, David Vilella of “Vegas! The Show” and many others.
Daniel Emmet, Maren Wade, Niki Scalera, and Eric Jordan Young - Photo credit: Ira Kuzma Photos
Band members Josh Jones, Philip Fortenberry, Don Meoli, Eric Tewalt - Photo credit: Ira Kuzma Photos
Producers Keith Thompson and Philip Fortenberry - Photo credit Ira Kuzma Photos
Melody Sweets - Photo credit Ira Kuzma Photos
Chadwick Johnson and Jonathan Karrant - Photo credit Ira Kuzma Photos
Weekly performances of Cocktail Cabaret are scheduled for Wednesday through Saturday at 5:00 p.m., dark Sunday through Tuesday. The show will also be dark Dec. 21 and during CES Jan. 10, 11, 12, 13. Tickets are on sale and priced at $55 per person general admission plus tax and applicable fees and can be purchased in-person at Caesars Entertainment box office.Locals with Nevada I.D. are being offered an introductory holiday two-for-one tickets special through Dec. 23 with promo code CKLOCAL, valid for purchase at any Caesars Entertainment box office.
Masters of Illusion Celebrates Opening Night at Bally’s Las Vegas
The Grand Opening of Las Vegas's newest magic production, Masters of Illusion, starring five award-winning magicians, was held on Wednesday evening, December 13 at the Jubilee Theater at Bally’s Las Vegas, where it will be performing for a limited engagement. Mixing jaw-dropping magic and side-splitting comedy with fresh artistry and technology, the Las Vegas production of Masters of Illusion brings the hit CW television series of the same namesake to life for audiences nightly.
Masters of Illusion features magicians Jason Bird, Farrell Dillon, Greg Gleason, Chris Randall, and Tommy Wind, who masterfully weave a series of grand illusions with mind-blowing sleight-of-hand, and everything in between. Each with their own extensive career in magic expertly showcased, this team of illusionists has joined forces to create an exciting and hilarious evening of entertainment that’s fun for the whole family. Interlacing the magic vignettes together throughout the show is a group of talented male and female dancing assistants led by the mysterious “Woman in Red,” with choreography by celebrated dancers Shannon Holtzapffel and Chase Benz.
Tommy Wind Farrell Dillon Greg Gleason Jason Bird Chris Randall on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas 12.13.17 credit Ethan Miller
Chris Randall in Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas credit Ethan Miller for Masters of Illusion Las Vegas
Farrell Dillon in Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas credit Ethan Miller for Masters of Illusion Las Vegas
Greg Gleason in Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas credit Ethan Miller for Masters of Illusion Las Vegas
Jason Bird in Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas credit Ethan Miller for Masters of Illusion Las Vegas
Tommy and Stacy Wind in Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller for Masters of Illusion Las Vegas
Among the local celebrities and performers in attendance at the premiere performance were comedian and fellow Bally’s headliner Tom Green; magicians The Amazing Johnathan, Murray SawChuck, Douglas “Lefty” Leferovich, and David Goldrake; cast members from CHIPPENDALES, CIRCUS 1903, TENORS OF ROCK, The Miss Behave Gameshow, WOW-World of Wonder, and others.
Cast members from CHIPPENDALES on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Cast of The Miss Behave Game Show on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Cast of WOW World of Wonder on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Gay Blackstone on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Magician David Goldrake on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Tenors of Rock on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Tom Green on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
“We are extremely excited to bring Masters of Illusion to the Las Vegas Strip. The touring show continues to successfully perform across the United States and around the world and has been seen on the CW television network,” said Jim Romanovich, president of worldwide media at Associated Television.
Cast of Masters of Illusion on the red carpet at opening night of Masters of Illusion at Ballys Las Vegas. photo credit Ethan Miller
Masters of Illusion performs Wednesday – Monday at 7 p.m. beginning Wednesday, Dec. 6. General ticket prices begin at $49, plus applicable tax and fees. Tickets may be purchased in-person at any Caesars Entertainment box office. The show is suitable for ages 8 and up.
Piff the Magic Dragon Celebrates Third Annual Piffmas Piff-Tacular “Piffmas at Piffany’s” at Flamingo Las Vegas
Piff the Magic Dragon celebrated his 3rd annual Piffmas Piff-Tacular, “Piffmas at Piffany’s,” at Flamingo Las Vegas on Thursday night, December 7.Over the years, Piff has toured the show across the UK and now brings a brand new holiday version to the Flamingo.
Piff The Magic Dragon - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout>
Jade, Piff, and Francis - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
On arrival each member of the audience will be separated from their loved ones and divided into one of four teams all competing for Piff's Prize Potluck. Because what's more traditional than spending the holiday season falling out with your nearest and dearest over some petty game?
The evening culminates in the Sale of a Sandwich, to benefit a local charity. During its initial run, Piff raised over $15,000 in less than three months by selling stale pastry treats to minor celebrities. Will he be able to top that this Piffmas for this year’s charity – Feeding America?
Local celebrities that came out to celebrate with Piff, Mr. Piffles (The World’s First Magic Performing Chihuahua™) and his on stage sidekicks Jade Simone and Francis the Squire, were Wade and Heather King and Irvine Raymer from Animal Planet’s “Tanked,” Melody Sweets, Mac King, Lydia Ansel, Douglas Leferovich, Zowie Bowie's Chris Phillips, Murray SawChuck, Miss Behave and her glamorous assistant Tiffany from The Miss Behave Gameshow, Maren Wade and Daniel Emmet from Cocktail Cabaret, as well as cast members from Magic Mike Live, Raiding the Rock Vault, X Burlesque, Fantasy and Chippendales.
Chippendales - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Chris Phillips - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
FANTASY - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Kevin Burke - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Lydia Ansel - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Mac King - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Magic Mike Live - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Melody Sweets - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Miss Behave Gameshow - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Murray Sawchuck and his mom Arlene Sawchuck - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
Animal Planet's Tanked - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
X-Burlesque - Photo credit: Edison Graff/@Stardustfallout
“Piffmas at Piffany's” debuted on the Las Vegas Strip on 2014, when Piff was at The Cosmopolitan. An instant smash hit, Piff dished up desserts to Shania Twain, sold Hollywood star Brad Garrett a croissant for $1,000, and dazzled David Copperfield himself with sleight of paw dragony miracles.
Piff's Piffmas Piff-Tacular runs through December 30, 2017, at which time Piff will unveil a new show inside Bugsy’s Cabaret, which he will perform five days a week. Piff recently announced that his popular residency at the Flamingo has been extended through the end of 2018. Since its launch in November 2015, the Las Vegas show has been a constantly evolving mix of greatest hits and new tricks from a repertoire that stretches more than ten years.
Tickets for Piff’s shows at Flamingo Las Vegas are on-sale now. Showtime is 8 p.m. VIP Meet & Greet packages are also availabler and include a private party with Piff before the show. Piff’s Private Party starts at 7 p.m.
Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Transform Into Glamorous Holiday Wonderland Through January 6
Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens has unveiled a new holiday installation featuring the wonders of winter that is on display through January 6, 2018.
Centered around a stunning 42-foot White Fir tree, guests will marvel at the elegant ice princess who reigns over the snow-kissed gardens. Radiant ornaments hang throughout the space as the spectacle comes to life with festive cheer.
Photo courtesy of The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Envisioned by designer Ed Libby and the Bellagio Horticulture team, the display astounds the senses and captivates the imagination this holiday season with festive winter floral creations. Adding a bit of glamour and sparkle to Bellagio’s most anticipated installation, Libby drew inspiration from classic children’s books and holiday lore, including “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis.
Photo courtesy of The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Guarded by four 14-foot toy soldiers, guests will enter the Conservatory via a walk-through train station, the perfect setting to share a special holiday moment and capture memories. Draped in white garland and surrounded by lit trees and vibrant Poinsettias, the entrance serves as a glimpse of what’s to come.
Photo courtesy of The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
At the heart of the West Garden, the majestic holiday tree leaves bystanders in awe. Decorated by two elves, the 42-foot White Fir shimmers with 7,000 lights and 2,500 ornaments. Making her debut in the holiday installation this year, an 18-foot-tall ice princess welcomes visitors. Escorted by two polar bears, the princess is dressed in timeless elegance with preserved red roses, silver palmetto leaves, fresh hydrangeas and Phalaenopsis orchids. On the other side of the tree, a group of silver wrapped boxes overflow with ornaments ready to be placed on the tree by the cheerful elves.
Photo courtesy of The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Nearby, a polar bear family, embellished with “fur” made of thousands of white carnations, delight visitors young and old as two baby bears play among the icebergs. Another baby pops out of a box as papa bear watches with affection. Across the Conservatory in the North Garden, two 10-foot trains depart for the North Pole through brick tunnels textured with crushed walnuts and lined with snow and candy canes. To complete the seasonal theme, intricate snowflakes, glistening ornaments and an illuminated moon are suspended high above the gardens, visible from every vantage point.
Photo courtesy of The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is complimentary to the public and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Fat Bar and Three Las Vegas Fatburger Locations Host 5th Annual Holiday Give Back, Supporting the Residents of The Shade Tree
Darin Feinstein, the owner of Fat Bar on the Las Vegas Strip and three local Fatburger franchise locations, along with his wife Patricia Feinstein showered the residents of The Shade Tree with holiday kindness the week of December 11, celebrating the 5th Annual Holiday Give Back to The Shade Tree, a private star-studded event and donation drive for its residents.
With a goal of filling more than tummies for the holiday season, Darin Feinstein launched the holiday give back now five years ago in 2013. The annual month-long donation drive and private event for residents has become a highly successful fundraising activity for the residents of The Shade Tree.
Photo courtesy of Shade Tree
Each year, Fatburger supplies a commercial grill and a dozen staff members who all look forward to take part and grill up the world-famous Fatburgers for residents. Additionally, special guests come to support the cause such as Rio headliner and comedian Eddie Griffin, who has supported the Holiday Give since its launch in 2013, Steve Siegel and Judi Siegel of Siegel Suites, who bring Santa Claus and provide toys for the children, Early Clover and Friends perform, and numerous artists through the years who have come every year to paint inspiring murals at The Shade Tree. This year 37 different artists from ISI, Industry Supporting Industry, and Helpful Hoodlums painted murals with paint sponsored by Dunn Edwards of Las Vegas.
Photo courtesy of Shade Tree
Photo courtesy of Shade Tree
Photo courtesy of Shade Tree
Photo courtesy of Shade Tree
“The employees and CEO of Fatburger & Fat Bar are an inspiration. Darin, brings his employees, food, and some pretty high profile friends to our grounds here at The Shade Tree to honor the women and children at the shelter and to remind them that they too, are an important part of the community.” – Stacey Lockhart, Executive Director The Shade Tree The Shade Tree donation drive ran December 1 through the 30th at three local Fatburger locations as well as Fat Bar on the Las Vegas Strip.
Photo courtesy of Shade Tree
Donations of clothes and needed supplies for the residents of Shade Tree were also gathered at Beauty Bar in Downtown on East Fremont for donation to the residents. For each $1 donated through the campaign, Darin Feinstein matched up to $10,000. Las Vegas Fatburger locations that participated include Fat Bar and Fatburger on the Las Vegas Strip; Fatburger at Red Rock Resort & Casino, and Fatburger at Green Valley Ranch Resort & Casino.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
On Thursday, Dec. 14, Twilight Zone™ by Monster Mini Golf® transported guests to an extraordinarily unordinary experience at its official, grand opening celebration at Bally’s Las Vegas. The 10,000-square-foot parallel universe features an 18-hole, blacklight miniature golf course, a state-of-the-art arcade, Syfy Wedding Chapel, special event space, bowling and a co-branded gift shop. To kick off the event Monster Mini Golf® founder Christina Vitagliano handed guests keys to see which lucky earthling would unlock the door to the fifth dimension. Rebecca Robinson from Geismar, La. had the lucky key, earning a Twilight Zone™ by Monster Mini Golf® prize package that included her likeness being immortalized into the walls of the Twilight Zone Venue, a lifetime of free golf at the attraction and a three-day, two-night stay in a Grand Suite at Bally’s Las Vegas.
“From the prop makers to mural painters, the team has put in a lot of hard work to create this interactive entertainment experience,” said Christina Vitagliano, founder of Monster Mini Golf®. “We are thrilled to have unlocked the door to the fifth dimension and look forward to bringing fun to locals and tourists alike.”
Under license by CBS Consumer Products and true to Monster Mini Golf® design, the glow-in-the-dark venue features props entirely conceptualized by Vitagliano and her team as inspired by the hit television show. The venue is Monster Mini Golf®’s second Las Vegas location and the only miniature golf course on the Las Vegas Strip.
Pricing is free to enter the The Twilight Zone by Monster Mini Golf®, with mini-golf available at $11.95 and $9.95 for Las Vegas locals
On Saturday, December 9, Julie Newmar, who played the Original Catwoman on the 1960's TV series Batman, appeared in person at Animazing Gallery at Grand Canal Shoppes inside The Venetian® and The Palazzo® Las Vegas. In honor of her most famed role, Newmar posed with friends next to the classic 1966 Batmobile upon arriving. To celebrate the opening of the newest flagship exhibit, the iconic actress welcomed fans with autographed limited edition renderings by renowned comic artist, Alex Ross.
Animazing Event with Julie Newmar. Photo Credit Jim Decker
Animazing Event with Julie Newmar. Photo Credit Jim Decker
MINUS 5 ICE EXPERIENCE, the company that launched America's first ice experience, has unveiled an all-new winter wonderland experience at their flagship location inside The Shoppes at Mandalay Place. Known as the "coolest" venue in Las Vegas, the recent overhaul features a lunar landing complete with astronaut and space backdrop, an ice castle that pays tribute to the hit series Game of Thrones; an under the sea experience from Atlantis featuring King Neptune, and much more.
Photo courtesy of Minus 5 Ice Experience
Photo courtesy of Minus 5 Ice Experience
Photo courtesy of Minus 5 Ice Experience
Photo courtesy of Minus 5 Ice Experience
Photo courtesy of Minus 5 Ice Experience
Photo courtesy of Minus 5 Ice Experience
CHELSEA ROBINSON has been chosen as the NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SUSAN G. KOMEN NEVADA. Robinson joins Komen Nevada with an extensive background in non-profits, fundraising and community development. Her experience includes many years of work for Special Olympics, March of Dimes, Make-A-Wish, Autism Speaks and the American Cancer Society. Ultimately, it was her vision and goal-setting that helped her stand out amongst the other candidates. She was unanimously selected for the position by the Board of Directors at the beginning of November.
Chelsea Robinson - Photo courtesy of Komen Nevada
XAVIER MORTIMER’S MAGICAL DREAM has been extended for one year in PLANET HOLLYWOOD RESORT & CASINO'S SIN CITY THEATRE. The show, which debuted in 2016, is the first on the Las Vegas Strip to showcase the talents of a former Cirque du Soleil performer as the headliner.The extravagant production showcases Mortimer’s talents and his illusions, defying simple explanation and transporting guests of all ages into a dream world. The 70-minute production is comprised of more than 14 acts and an unconventional cast of characters, including the wonder of Mary Poppins, the theatrics of Charlie Chaplin and the animation of Mickey Mouse. Xavier Mortimer’s Magical Dream is at 7 p.m. nightly, with tickets priced at $49 for general admission and $69 for VIP, excluding tax and box office fees.
PKWY TAVEN is celebrating the start of sweater weather with an UGLY SWEATER DRIVE AND HOLIDAY CLOTHING DRIVE BENEFITING THE LAS VEGAS SALVATION ARMY. All three Las Vegas PKWY Tavern locations (9280 W Flamingo, Las Vegas; 450 S, Rampart Drive, Las Vegas and 445 Marks St, Henderson) will collect items to donate to those in need through Dec. 25. Merry makers who bring in an item on or before Dec. 14 will receive one free drink coupon to be redeemed that night at PKWY Flamingo's tacky sweater shindig starting at 7 p.m.
The incredible cast of Absinthe at CAESARS PALACE, welcomes the SILICON VALLEY GIRLS to the stage inside the wondrous Spiegeltent for performances beginning December 8. ABSINTHE performs Wednesday-Sunday at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. with no shows on Monday or Tuesday. The schedule is subject to change without notice.
Silicon Valley Girls Absinthe Las Vegas - Photo Credit Matthias Clamer
On Monday, December 18, W LAS VEGAS (located at 2535 S.Las Vegas Blvd.) will host UNDIEMONDAY from 6pm to 9pm which will feature a live DJ spinning tunes in W Las Vegas’ Living Room Bar and special cocktails sponsored by New Amsterdam vodka. Guests are encouraged to bring donations of either a new pack of underwear and socks or feminine hygiene products, and in return, they will receive a ticket for a complimentary sponsored drink. Also, for anyone who forgets to bring a donation, 100% of the proceeds from sales of the New Amsterdam sponsored cocktails will go straight back to Caridad Charity, a reliable, effective, and a cost-efficient organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Las Vegas homeless population and its supporters.
Award-winning grand illusionist DAVID GOLDRAKE will share his excitement and magic of the holiday season with Las Vegas audiences from around the world by presenting 'IMAGINARIUM – CELEBRATE THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS' at Tropicana Las Vegas. The magician, known as 'The International Man of Mystery,' will incorporate special holiday magic into his already mind-blowing new show, 'Imaginarium' inside Tropicana Theater. Audiences will witness a new holiday-themed show full of magic and illusions incorporating special costumes, music, lighting effects, and stage décor inspired by the season. David Goldrake also treats his audiences to a special illusion with a child from the audience evoking the spirit of Christmas and ends the show with the best magic of all, producing snow on stage.David Goldrake performs 'Imaginarium - Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays' Tuesday through Sunday December 19 through December 30 (dark December 25 & 31). Performances include a 4pm matinee and 7pm evening performances with ticket prices starting at $49.98 (excludes tax and fees).Tickets can be purchased at the Tropicana box office.
NORTH ITALIA, Fox Restaurant Concepts’ highly anticipated handcrafted Italian restaurant, is now open at at 1069 S. Rampart Blvd in Rampart Commons. The wildly popular culinary experience is the first location in Nevada and has found a new home in the Summerlin community. North Italia redefines the standards for Italian cuisine as chefs start from scratch daily to create handmade pizzas, pastas and more using only the best ingredients.
SHAKE SHACK will be opening its doors on Wednesday, December 20 at 905 South Grand Central Parkway in the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, the open-air village-styled shopping destination. The new Shack marks the brand’s fifth location in Southern Nevada.
PALMS CASINO RESORT, the iconic property now part of the Station Casinos' family, today announced that A.Y.C.E., the REIMAGINED BUFFET CONCEPT with a distinct approach to culinary offerings and preparations in a swanky environment, will open its doors on December 22. "A.Y.C.E. will define the Vegas buffet not only with elevated and eclectic food displays but also in its modernized presentation, where we focus on the method of preparation," said Jon Gray, Vice President and General Manager of the Palms. "There are spectacular culinary options ranging from vegan to hearty, which will provide an upgraded food experience for every type of guest." A.Y.C.E. will be open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will offer Bottomless Mimosa Brunch on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas in partnership with Gaudin Motor Company, Special Sources, Sunshine Nevada Organization and Grant A Gift Autism Foundation will host CLUB SHINE AT VANITY NIGHTCLUB on Friday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m. Club Shine, an evening for adults with special needs, will feature handcrafted complimentary mocktails, a DJ spinning top hits and the ultimate VIP experience in a safe and exciting nightlife atmosphere. Adults of all special needs are invited to attend the inaugural Las Vegas event. Attendees can expect the true nightclub experience including an explosive performance DJ Roger Gangi, line array speakers, glow sticks and confetti cannons. A “safe space” will be available at Vanity’s outdoor patio for guests who need a break from the nightclub atmosphere. Parents are also invited to attend if additional support is needed. Entry is $5 and can be purchased at www.rsvp.special-sources.com. Guests must RSVP in order to attend this event. Club Shine is open from 7 to 10 p.m. and attendees must be 18 years of age or older.
HOUSE OF BLUES Las Vegas (located inside Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino) welcomes Murray & Peter Present A DRAG QUEEN CHRISTMAS: The Naughty Tour featuring fan favorites from RuPaul’s Drag Race (VH1), Sasha Velour, Aja, Milk, Latrice Royale, Naomi Smalls, Chi Chi DeVayne, and Kim Chi – hosted by Trinity Taylor on Friday, Dec. 22. Tickets start at $23. Doors open 7 p.m. Show starts 8 p.m.
Tony Award-winning actor KIRIL KULISH is joining the cast of to "BAZ - A Musical Mash-Up" at The Venetian® and The Palazzo® on Tuesday, Dec. 26. Kulish, who won the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for his performance in Broadway's "Billy Elliot the Musical," will play the role of Scott the Ballroom Dancer in the hit Las Vegas production. In addition to being a ballroom and ballet champion, Kulish was featured in season 22 of "Dancing with the Stars," as a professional dancer in the show's troupe.
NEVADA BALLET THEATRE (NBT) has announced that internationally acclaimed chef, television personality, best-selling author and philanthropist GIADA DE LAURENTIS will be honored as its “WOMAN OF THE YEAR” for the 34th ANNUAL BLACK & WHITE BALL. De Laurentiis’ numerous achievements in the culinary arts and dedication to national and international charitable causes will be celebrated on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Wynn Resorts during the 46 year-old ballet company’s largest annual fundraiser and one of the city’s preeminent society and fashion events. Funds raised from this important gala support a variety of endeavors including professional company ballet productions at NBT’s world-class performance home, The Smith Center for the Performing Arts; quality dance instruction within its affiliated school, the Academy of Nevada Ballet Theatre; and dance programs and initiatives for at-risk youth through its Education and Outreach Programs that serve over 20,000 students a year.
Southern Nevada's premier champion of arts and education, The Rogers Foundation, is now accepting online applications for $75,000 in new arts and education grants. Grant opportunities for K-12 schools in Clark County and community organizations in concert with these schools are available in three focus areas: Gift of Imagination, Gift of Knowledge, and Gift of Assurance. Each focus area will award up to $25,000. Grant applications are now available on The Rogers Foundation website www.therogers.foundation through March 23, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. Recipients will be announced at the end of May.
In addition to the grants, The Rogers Foundation is currently accepting applications for college scholarships, available to local high school seniors. Those interested in scholarship opportunities are urged to apply as soon as possible to meet the Feb. 2 deadline. A total of 11 Rogers Achievers Scholarships will be given away, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000, and the money is valid toward educational costs at any college or university in the United States. Additionally, The Rogers Foundation is giving out a minimum of 12 full ride scholarships to Kentucky Wesleyan College, an institution many of Jim Rogers' family members attended that also features one of the top arts programs in the area.
Start the New Year’s Eve revelry early with the boisterous sounds of glam metal quartet STEEL PANTHER at HOUSE OF BLUES Las Vegas inside Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on Friday Dec. 29, as they reprise classic cover songs in their brand new “Sunset Strip Live!” show. Show starts at 9:30 p.m. Doors open 9 p.m. Ages: 18+ . Tickets for Steel Panther start at $22, plus applicable fees.
FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE invites partygoers to forget all inhibitions and ring in 2018 during downtown Vegas’ official NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY, AMERICA'S PARTY DOWNTOWN, hosted by Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman. On Sunday, Dec. 31 beginning at 6 p.m., guests can celebrate the new year in style with non-stop live entertainment from 12 bands on four stages, including a dedicated EDM stage, watch the iconic ball drop in Times Square and enjoy the worldwide premiere of The Killers’ new music video montage featuring famous hit such as "Mr. Brightside," "When We Were Young" and "The Man" all on the world’s largest single video screen, Viva Vision. Throughout the evening, guests will also be treated to stunning onstage pyrotechnics, dazzling visuals, alluring dancers and aerialists, theatrical, roaming entertainment and an unforgettable Viva Vision year-in-review montage.Pre-sale tickets for America’s Party Downtown are on sale now starting at $35 (plus tax and fees). Nevada residents with a valid I.D. can purchase tickets on-site at the SlotZilla box office, located next to the SlotZilla takeoff tower on Fremont Street between 4th Street and Las Vegas Boulevard, and receive a $10 discount.
HYDE BELLAGIO invites revelers to “COUNTDOWN BY THE LAKE” on Sunday, Dec. 31 during what is sure to be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. Beginning at 9 p.m., Hyde will transform into a secret garden, highlighting the seamless indoor-outdoor space, floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terrace that looks out over the famed Fountains of Bellagio, the perfect backdrop to ring in 2018.Following the New Year’s Eve countdown, partygoers will toast to a memorable year as DJ Hollywood spins the hottest tracks until the early morning hours and the highly anticipated fireworks show lights up The Strip. Formal attire is encouraged, general admission prices start at $50 and hosted bar opportunities begin at $75.
The roaring twenties are back at the DOWNTOWN GRAND HOTEL & CASINO with a “GRAND Gatsby” New Year’s Eve celebration and access has been granted to everyone, FREE. Supported by a ritzy cast of 1920’s themed models, servers, and actors guaranteed to deliver some of the most Instagrammable party activations of the night, (one word, “Glamazon”) this GRAND Gatsby weekend will bring the most revolutionary decade in pop culture history back to life with jazzy entertainment, swanky ambience, a prohibition-style pub crawl, and a dress code sure to spark the first selfies of 2018 by encouraging all guests to “come as a flapper, come as you are, come as a mobster or a silent screen star!”
Popular Fremont East Entertainment District bar and rooftop, COMMONWEALTH, will host an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party featuring an open bar and live performances beginning at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31. The New Year Eve’s celebration will kick off with a hosted open bar including well drinks and draft beers from 6 p.m. through 11 p.m., priced at $50 per person. The main room and rooftop will rock out to end-of-the-year party tunes provided by hip-hop and funk group, Maxwell Fresh, and hit jams from top Vegas’ own local DJs. At midnight, the venue will invite guests to the rooftop for a New Year’s cheer and unobstructed views of the spectacular fireworks show throughout the city.
Remedy’s and Distill invite Las Vegans to countdown to 2018 close to home by celebrating New Year’s Eve at any one of five neighborhood establishments. New Year’s Eve parties at all locations will begin at 9 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31 and are free to all patrons (must be 21 or older with valid ID). Guests can enjoy laughter, friends and fun with a DJ, dancing, drink specials, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. New Year’s Eve festivities will take place at the following locations:Remedy’s St. Rose – 3265 St. Rose Pkwy. Henderson; Remedy’s Conestoga – 530 Conestoga Way Henderson; Distill Summerlin – 10820 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas; Distill Southern Highlands – 4830 W. Pyle Ave. Las Vegas; Distill Centennial Hills – 6430 N. Durango Dr. Las Vegas.
The thrilling turn-of-the-century circus spectacular, CIRCUS 1903 will end its celebrated Las Vegas engagement on Jan. 7, 2018 at Paris Las Vegas. Tickets for remaining performances are on sale now and can be purchased at the Paris Theater box office.
Celebrity sightings:
Friday, Dec. 15...
Vegas Golden Knights left-wing David Perron was spotted attending the 8 p.m. performance of Absinthe at Caesars Palace.
David Perron Attends ABSINTHE 12.15.17 - Photo credit: Joesph Sanders Spiegelworld
Wednesday, Dec. 13...
Famed ice hockey player and Vegas Golden Knights forward William Karlsson accomanpanied by his parents, enjoyed the critically acclaimed production Mystère by Cirque du Soleil® at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino. Karlsson treated them to a quick meet-and-greet with a few of the talented artists from Mystère before the show began.
Vegas Golden Knights forward William Karlsson poses with artists from Mystère by Cirque du Soleil - Photo courtesy of Mystère by Cirque du Soleil®
Pittsburgh Penguins standouts Kris Letang, Ian Cole and Ryan Reaves were spotted attending the 8 p.m. performance of ABSINTHE at Caesars Palace.
Pittsburgh Penguins Kris Letang Ian Cole and Ryan Reaves attend ABSINTHE at Caesars Palace - Photo credit Joseph Sanders Spiegelworld
Thursday, Dec. 7...
America’s Got Talent judge and Spice Girls alumna, Melanie Brown, better known as Mel B, was spotted attending the 10 p.m. performance of Absinthe at Caesars Palace.
Mel B Attends ABSINTHE at Caesars Palace 12.7.17 - Photo credit Joseph Sanders Spiegelworld
Sunday, Dec. 3...
Drag queen, comedian, dancer, businessperson, and reality television personality, D.J. Pierce, known by his stage name, Shangela Laquifa Wadley, was spotted at "Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man," at Paris Las Vegas.
Shangela of RuPauls Drag Race at Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man 2 Courtesy SPI Entertainment
Saturday, Dec. 2...
Former University of Southern California and NFL running back Reggie Bush was spotted attending the 8 p.m performance of Absinthe at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
Reggie Bush Attends ABSINTHE 12.3.17 Courtesy of Joseph Sanders Spiegelworld
