JUST SAW SPAMALOT at WYNN LAS VEGAS and my stomach hurts from laughing so much. It is a laugh a minute spoof on King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table looking for the Holy Grail. Sounds blah, but no, this production was set with Las Vegas in mind and is so hilarious, I couldn't start telling the crazy goings on that happen (i.e. the Lady of the Lake has her Laker gals and they dance as if they are cheerleaders). Fun includes homosexuality, Jews, naughty ladies, fencing, dancing, singing (with great voices at its best). One never knows what will go in Vegas, but SPAMALOT in New York has been going great. This is a cut down version of 90 minutes with no intermission, which seems to be more favorable for Las Vegas audiences. We'll see!
 
Paul Anka, one of this century's most successful entertainers and songwriters, marks his 50th anniversary in music and nearly five decades performing in Las Vegas with an exclusive appearance at the LAS VEGAS HILTON May 4 & 5 at 8 p.m. As a recording artist, Anka has sold more than 40 million albums, CDs and singles worldwide. In the United States, he has scored three #1 songs, "Diana," "Lonely Boy," and "You're Having My Baby," as well as 22 Top 20 hits. To date, he has recorded 125 albums, including more than ten albums in Japanese, German, Spanish, French, and Italian, composing songs culturally tailored to each country. The legendary performer has been a Las Vegas mainstay for nearly five decades, having first played here at the SAHARA in 1959 with Sophie Tucker. He also has written a staggering 900 songs—130 recorded by other artists including Elvis Presley, Barbra Streisand, Linda Ronstadt, and Robbie Williams. He is particularly well known for penning signature songs for others, notably "It Doesn't Matter Anymore" (Buddy Holly), "She's a Lady" (Tom Jones), "Puppy Love" (Donny Osmond) and, of course, "My Way" (Frank Sinatra).

Dita Von Teese became the first guest star in the history of the legendary Crazy Horse in Paris, France last October and her performances received rave reviews. I was invited to see Dita Von Teese, the International Queen of Burlesque perform the same seductive numbers at MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris and she was quite sensual as she performed her "LeBain" bathtub act. Dita's performance is one of many significant events the show has lined up to celebrate the recent name change from "La Femme" to Crazy Horse Paris. Her appearance and style was more in the burlesque fashion of vintage glamour of '40s movies. While the other performers are more artistically displayed in an innovative manner that is less of a turn on, Dita's burlesque style was quite erotic, even to me as a woman. However, I wonder if she had to wear pasties in France as she did here in Las Vegas? (Even many of the showgirls here do not have to wear them—hmm—wonder why she had to?) But, she is gorgeous and was only here for a short time. Did you know she was formerly married to rocker Marilyn Manson? MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris is an exact replica of the Crazy Horse show in France and is performed at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., dark Tuesdays. Guests must be at least 18 years of age. Tickets are priced at $59 plus tax

Robin Williams, one of the most gifted actors and comedians of our time, returns to the MGM Grand Garden Arena for a Memorial Day Weekend performance Sunday, May 27 at 8 p.m.. Offstage Robin Williams takes great joy in supporting numerous causes including "Comic Relief," which was founded in 1986 as a non-profit organization to help America's homeless. He also has participated in a variety of benefit events including the Andre Agassi Grand Slam for Children Benefit held at MGM Grand.

Lucky Strike Lanes at THE RIO has fused nightlife and sport with a 10-lane bowling alley and full-service restaurant and bar. They had a grand opening with celebrity host Kristin Cavallari of Laguna Beach. They have since united with the wackiest variety show in Vegas, Beacher's Madhouse, to bring the only bowling tournament of it's kind to the Sin City scene. Beacher's Unprofessional Bowling Association (BUBA) has 128 teams comprised of firemen, teachers, professional dancers, waitresses, bartenders and business leaders who face off for a grand prize trip for four to Atlantis in the Bahamas. This happens on Mondays with Grey Goose as the official sponsor of BUBA. Lucky Strike Lanes also hosts their service industry nights on Mondays alongside BUBA, where guests can try deliciously creative appetizers and innovative drinks. Celebrities galore such as Motley Crue's Vince Neil have been seen participating in Beacher's Unprofessional Bowling Association at Lucky Strike Lanes on Mondays.

Well, they did it again! The ALADDIN is now PLANET HOLLYWOOD and although it is not the official opening of a new resort, the press and VIP opening went very well. Robert Earl CEO introduced a myriad of people who will hopefully make PLANET HOLLYWOOD into a most successful player on the Las Vegas Strip. Celebrities introduced at the press conference were: Bruce Willis, Roger Clemens, Pete Samaras and Sugar Ray Robinson (who hasn't aged a minute).

"Hans Kook—The Beauty of Magic," did a few excerpts from his new show and he is an exhilarating high-energy performer. Hans Klok is known as the fastest magician on the planet (and a young look-alike of Siegfried of S&Roy). His show was supposed to open with Carmen Electra but apparently there were some rumblings and he will be opening instead with television and film star Pamela Anderson along with Showgirls. Preview performances begin May 24 with opening night scheduled for June 2.

Invited guests were treated to delicious goodies in the three niteclubs 'Heart,' 'Extra' and 'The Living Room.' The buffet and Café Dailies were also on the menu. The extravagant makeover is truly effective by bringing on a more pleasant contemporary design.

Guests were also treated to the new show STOMP OUT LOUD, which, yes, is loud, but quite entertaining. Items such as brooms, garbage pails, newspapers and anything you would never think of using to make musical sounds are used to make a unique combination of percussion, movement, and visual comedy, Creators Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas have transformed their show for Las Vegas with new sequences and choreography, a dynamically expanded cast and a completely new environment in a $28 million, 1,500-seat theatre. Chaotic choreography is challenging and in my interview with some of the cast, it was acknowledged that injuries are often sustained. STOMP has performed in Las Vegas before, but only with a small cast of eight. Now with twenty-four cast members and a large stage in a theater built just for STOMP OUT LOUD, half of the cast has been on tour with the show for many years, while half are new to the show. Good Luck to the new PLANET HOLLYWOOD, which will have its official openings on September 28 (my birthday) and September 29.

Congratulations to Steve Wyrick on the opening of his own theater and entertainment complex in the MIRACLE MILE at PLANET HOLLYWOOD. Wyrick puts on a fabulous show in a new $20-million dollar production with mind-blowing illusions such as making a AS 350 helicopter and a Lear Jet 35 appear and a West Coast Chopper disappear into mid-air. He also appears to walk through the blades of a 747 turbine fan. In addition to many other amazing illusions, the show has music and sexy dancers. Wyrick also does remarkable tricks that involve audience participation in a most charming and charismatic manner. The Steve Wyrick Theatre also houses the Ronn Lucas show at 3 p.m. and Martin Nievera at 5 p.m. and the Triq Ultra Lounge that is part of the new 33,000 square-foot multi-level complex.

Ronn Lucas is one of a kind. There are many ventriloquists, but none like Lucas. He even uses his own hand as the dummy. Audience interaction is great and his show is a hoot for all ages. At a media event for The Ronn Lucas Show, located inside the new Steve Wyrick Entertainment Theater in the MIRACLE MILE at PLANET HOLLYWOOD, delicious Tacone Flavor Grill wraps were served. Now, the Ronn Lucas show is offering a lunch and show package for $40 plus tax and ticket fees. The package includes a VIP ticket to The Ronn Lucas Show plus any entrée at Tacone Flavor Grill and a fountain drink. Customers will receive a coupon for the lunch package on the bottom of each VIP show ticket redeemable at Tacone Flavor Grill. The restaurant is located inside Miracle Mile Shops, just a short walk away from The Steve Wyrick Theater. Regular Ronn Lucas Show ticket prices are $34.95 for VIP tickets and $29.95 for Reserve plus tax and box office fees.

HOOTERS CASINO HOTEL has transformed the "13" Martini Bar into a showroom featuring Bobby Slayton, best known as the 'Pit Bull of Comedy.' Slayton's act focuses on relationships between men and women—or lack thereof—blowing "Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus" out of the water. This show is not for the squeamish, but if you are ready, it is lots of fun. Seen at opening night were magician, Nathan Burton, hypnotist, Anthony Cools and porn star Randy West

Magician Nathan Burton will encase himself in a gigantic M-shaped ice sculpture for 24 hours in front of Miracle Mile Shops at PLANET HOLLYWOOD north Las Vegas Boulevard entrance on Monday, May 21 beginning at 10 a.m. Even though temperatures in May average 90 degrees, Burton will have to withstand FREEzing cold inside the ice. The frozen 'M' is so massive it can last up to three days in 100-degree weather. Weighing nine tons and having 10-inch thick walls, Burton will not be able to escape until several Miracle Mile owners break open the ice to set him FREE at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 22. Burton will be joined by 96 showgirls rotating in and out of the ice to keep him company. Visitors cruising the Strip will be able to touch and inspect the 'M', which is shaped as such to celebrate Miracle Mile Shops' ongoing multi-million dollar makeover focusing on de-theming the center's original design.

Polly Esther's Quad-themed nite Club at the STRATOSPHERE is going strong. There are four clubs, depicting four separate decades under one roof with familiar sights and sounds that can appeal to people of all ages. The clubs are: Polly Esther's room with a 1970s theme, Culture Club 1980s, Nerve Ana 1990s and Suite 2000 with today's contemporary theme.

Since acquiring the FOUR QUEENS HOTEL & CASINO three years ago, Terry Caudill, has invested over $20 million in the downtown property. Now, The Four Queens announces its latest achievement—the opening of the Canyon Club. Housed in 10,000 square feet accessible through the FOUR QUEENS lobby the Canyon Club offers a reasonably priced dinner menu and live entertainment nightly from dance bands, comedians and nationally known acts.

Danny Gans is celebrating seven years performing at THE MIRAGE. Since 2000, Gans has entertained audiences with his wide array of talents. Gans performs nightly in the 1,265-seat Danny Gans Theatre built specifically for him "The Man of Many Voices" explores the world of entertainment through the eyes and voices of performers including Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra, Jeff Foxworthy, Jay Leno, Tom Hanks, Al Pacino and a multitude of other contemporary artists such as John Mayer and Michael Bubl. Gans didn't always desire the life of an entertainer. His boyhood dream was to play Major League baseball and his natural athletic talent put Gans on a fast track toward that goal. However, a career-ending injury in the Minor Leagues quickly brought that dream to a halt. With encouragement from friends and family, Gans quickly began to put his amazing singing voice, natural wit and a rare stage presence to work and created a new career for himself in entertainment. Gans performs nightly to a packed house. Shows are nightly at 8 p.m., dark Sunday, Monday and Thursday. Tickets are $100 inclusive and can be purchased by calling (800) 963-9634.

The HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO expects to top last year's records with even more revelers this year as Rehab, the pinnacle of poolside entertainment, celebrates its fourth season hosting the city's biggest and most anticipated pool parties. Bill Maher is one of the most politically astute comedians in America today. His unflinching honesty and to never pulling a punch have garnered him the respect and admiration of millions of fans. He performs at the HARD ROCK May 4 & 5, June 15 & 16 at 11:30 p.m.

     


You must see "HELLO DERE" at the GOLD COAST. Comedian Marty Allen (Allen & Rossi fame) and singer, songwriter and straight woman Karon Kate. are still one of the best comedy/straight routines in the entertainment industry. When you see the show, you will see that he is the Marty Allen of 40 years ago even though he just celebrated his 85th birthday.

     
The SUNCOAST has THE HIT PARADE performing in their showroom May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, and June 7, 14, 21, and 28. Admission is FREE. Showtime is 2 p.m. And, JIMMY HOPPER, Award Winning Performer, Vocalist and Entertainer performs MAY 12TH & 13TH.
 
The VENETIAN's newest headliner is Wayne Brady, two-time Emmy award-winner and one of the most versatile men in show business. His show, "Making It Up," runs every Thursday–Sunday at 9:30 p.m. Brady brings his comedic improvisational talent showcased on hit shows such as "Whose Line is it Anyway?" and the syndicated talk show, "The Wayne Brady Show," to THE VENETIAN and features a live band and dancers. After an overwhelming response from Las Vegas audiences and critics alike, Wayne Brady's new show, Making It Up, has been extended to July 1. In just two weeks of performances, he has developed a solid fan base and catapulted Wayne Brady from one of many visiting entertainers to a true Strip headliner. There is nothing typical about this show. In 75-minutes, you will see Brady do what he does best—make it up, and then some! Backed by a three-piece band and two lovely dancers, Brady proves he is one of the most versatile men in show business. "Making It Up" brings a new comedic show to the acclaimed line-up of entertainment at THE VENETIAN. Currently featured are live performances by the world-famous Blue Man Group, 'Phantom—The Las Vegas Spectacular,' and the energetic, edgy and hilarious comedian, musician and impressionist, Gordie Brown.

Rita Rudner, the accomplished actress, screenwriter, best-selling author and comedienne, has extended her stay as headliner at HARRAH's until January 2010. This extension means Rudner will pass the one million tickets sold mark some time next year. Her Las Vegas Strip run began six years ago. Rudner's shows have been so well received at HARRAH's that additional 6 p.m. shows have been added for the month of May. In addition, Rudner will introduce a $20 Locals' Appreciation ticket for the summer months of July and August. A limited number of tickets will be available to Las Vegas residents on a first-come-first-served basis.

Veteran heartland rocker Joe Grushecky is making his Las Vegas debut at Toby Keith's "I Love This Bar & Grill" inside HARRAH's May 10–12, Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers will play their celebrated brand of rock and roll twice nightly at 10 p.m. and midnight. Admission is FREE. A highly-acclaimed musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, music arranger and recording artist, Grushecky leads what's been described in top music publications as "one of the best bar bands in America." In addition, a song he co-wrote with pal Bruce Springsteen previously won a Grammy for best solo rock vocal performance ("Code of Silence").

Mötley Crüe front man and rock 'n' roll legend Vince Neil, is hosting Sin City's hottest Cinco de Mayo party: Vince Neil's Tres Rios Tequila Cinco de Mayo Splash at the FLAMINGO. The May 5 event is FREE and open to the public and will feature a live performance by Vince Neil and his all-star band, Tres Rios Tequila and drink specials, strolling mariachis and an unparalleled party atmosphere. The poolside bash is the official launch party for Neil's Tequila label, Tres Rios Tequila. The festivities kick off at 7 p.m. Local rock radio station KOMP 92.3 FM will broadcast live from the FLAMINGO Pool from 5 p.m.–8 p.m., on-hand with FREE prizes, giveaway, and the always sexy KOMP girls.

THE PALMS is synonymous with bringing top-notch celebrities to Las Vegas and rolling out the red carpet for special events, but for the grand opening of The Pearl—the $80 million dollar concert theater—owner George Maloof wanted to make sure the entire city knew that something special is now in their backyard. Maloof said, "Fireworks were a bit too cliché for this opening—we wanted to do something as breathtaking and visually stunning as The Pearl is in its design," Historically used for movie premieres and special events, sky-trackers let people know that something special is happening for miles. Pulling out all the stops, the Palm's team worked with several distributors to put together a world record attempt: With capabilities of being seen for miles, The Palms was engulfed in 160 sky-tracker lights with more than 40 units shining the lights into the sky. Being submitted for a world record attempt with the Guinness Book of World Records, the lighting was a top-off to a celebrity studded evening with Hollywood elite such as Dave Navarro, No Doubt, Tommy Lee, Kevin Connolly, Paris Hilton and others. The Pearl's grand opening celebration included an amazing performance by Gwen Stefani and an after-party in the Moon nightclub.

Rock 'n' roll icon band Aerosmith performed at The Lili Claire Foundation's 'A Concert for Lili Claire' at MANDALAY BAY. The classic rock band's live performance was part of the fundraiser to assist Southern Nevada children living with neuro-developmental conditions. 

The second annual "VH1 Rock Honors" will pay homage to the legends who influenced the sound of rock. This year's celebration will honor the music and influence of Genesis, Heart, Ozzy Osbourne and ZZ Top. "VH1 Rock Honors" will be taped at the MANDALAY BAY Events Center Saturday, May 12 at 8 p.m. and will premiere Thursday, May 24 at 9 p.m. EST/PST. The two-hour tribute will salute the groundbreaking bands of rock, the once in a lifetime events and the influential people who made a lasting mark on the history of rock. The influence of these honorees will be felt through spoken tributes, filmed packages and performances by some of today's hottest rock acts as well as the legends themselves

Two powerhouses, Tiger Woods and Bon Jovi, will reunite for the 10th annual Tiger Jam, presented by AT&T Saturday, May 26 at the MANDALAY BAY Events Center. Marking 10 years of unforgettable concerts, Tiger Jam X will be a fitting tribute to the estimated 10 million young people Tiger Jam has helped by raising funds for the Tiger Woods Foundation. Since its creation in 1998, Tiger Jam has raised more than $10 million for the Tiger Woods Foundation (TWF) and select Las Vegas-based charities through its sold-out performances and one-of-a-kind auction items. In 2006, a meet and greet with Sting in New York raised $65,000 and a putting lesson with Woods raised $155,000. 

Celebrating their 30th anniversary as a band, FOREIGNER returns more powerful than ever. The band, featuring founder/chief songwriter/guitarist/producer Mick Jones, drummer Jason Bonham, lead vocalist Kelly Hansen, bassist Jeff Pilson, keyboardist Jeff Jacobs and rhythm guitarist Tom Gimbel, will perform at the MANDALAY BAY BEACH Sunday, May 13 at 9 p.m. 

PARIS LAS VEGAS is pleased to announce Le Burger Brasserie Sports Grille featuring the world's most creative burgers! The French interpretation of the American classic offers a truly gourmet burger menu which includes: "Le Boeuf" (The Beef), "Le Poulet" (The Chicken), "Le Salmon" (The salmon), "L'Agneau" (The Lamb) and "Le Legumes" (The Veggie). In addition, unique only to Le Burger Brasserie is the $777 Kobe Beef and Maine Lobster Burger created with caramelized onions, imported Brie cheese, crispy prosciutto, 100-year-aged Balsamic vinegar and served with a bottle of Rose Dom Perignon champagne.
 
The Tank, the pool at the GOLDEN NUGGET, is the property's newest attraction and just in time for summer. Complete with a 200,000-gallon shark tank, three-story waterslide and new Dive Bar. Golden Nugget guests can thrill in the excitement of swimming inches away from sharks and other marine life. Aquatic adventures can take the plunge through the shark tank on the one-of-a-kind waterslide.

The FREE Jazz in the Park concert series welcomes national acts for its 13th year at the Clark County Amphitheater at 8 p.m. May 5, June 2 and 9. Seating for those with picnic baskets, blankets and low-back chairs will begin at 7 p.m. Food vendors also will be available on site. Parking is FREE. The series is produced by Clark County Parks and Recreation.
 
STATION CASINOS and KWNR present the inaugural "Jam for a Wish" concert benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The concert takes place Monday, May 14 at 8 p.m. at Ovation, the new showroom inside GREEN VALLEY RANCH. Tickets are $25.00. Must be 21 years or older.