August '10 Entertainment—Z.Z. Zorn's Entertainment Tidbits Column

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August 2010
I
just got back to Las Vegas from California and saw what was an amazing and horrific sight. The wild fires in PALMDALE were near where we were staying and the vast amount of smoke and flames were too much to describe. We were in PALMDALE one day and our car had ash all over it. Good to be back to Las Vegas where we only have the heat to complain about.

Jubilee!

Now this is a bargain that can’t be beat. As a longtime writer living in Las Vegas since 1982, I’ve often written that Jubilee and Mystere are among my favorite shows. One of my very favorite shows on the Strip marks its 29th year’s anniversary. Now at BALLY’s, Donn Arden’s Jubilee! is commemorating its 29th anniversary by offering a special $29 ticket price to Nevada residents through Tuesday, August 31.

One of the longest-running production shows on the famed Las Vegas Strip, Jubilee! features beautiful rhinestone-clad showgirls, lavish costumes, elaborate sets, world-renowned specialty acts, dynamic music, and graceful pageantry. Where else can you see the sinking of the Titanic and an Earthquake set to a story in Biblical times live on stage. Only in Jubilee!

The gorgeous showgirls of Donn Arden’s Jubilee! are the epitome of the grace and elegance, synonymous with classic Las Vegas. Featured on “The View,” NBC’s “Today Show” and “Last Comic Standing,” the beautiful dancers of Jubilee! have been voted the “world’s best showgirls” by Travel Channel/BBC and have also been seen on, “The Tyra Banks Show” and “The Montel Williams Show.”

Jubilee! is performed twice nightly, six days a week at 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., dark on Fridays. The early performance on Saturdays is ‘not topless.’ The specially priced anniversary ticket offer can be redeemed at the Bally’s Box Office, at the time of purchase, by showing a valid Nevada identification. A limited-capacity backstage tour offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays gives guests a once-in-a-lifetime behind the scenes look at both the historical and technical aspects of the show.

GRAMMY® Award-winner Michael Bublé brings his “Crazy Love Tour” to Las Vegas for a one-night-only performance at the MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA Saturday, Aug. 28 at 8 p.m. Bublé, often described by his peers as “one of the most likeable performers on Earth,” is touring in support of his No. 1 selling release Crazy Love. The album entered the Billboard Top 200 Chart at No. 1 and remained there for two consecutive weeks. Critics and fans agree that this is his best album to date. The “Crazy Love Tour” is currently selling out arenas across the country and is what many believe to be his biggest and most exciting show. Bublé’s performances are propelled by a string of smash hits including “Home,” “Everything” and his current single “Haven’t Met You Yet.” He also performs distinctive interpretations of classics like “Cry Me a River,” “Stardust” and “You’re Nobody ’til Somebody Loves You.”

Rock & Rita’s, the “Great American Party” spot at Circus Circus, and 12 of the highest ranked flair bartenders in the world have joined forces with the

American Cancer Society’s Young Professionals Against Cancer to “Flair for the Cure.” On Wednesday, August 18, following the highly anticipated NATIONS international flair bartending competition, the world’s top flair bartenders will auction off their skills to raise money for cancer. The event will kick off with a red carpet at 7 p.m. and is open to the public. Admission is complimentary.

“Flair for the Cure” will showcase the talents of several top flair bartenders as they flip, spin, juggle and balance to create special cocktail concoctions that will be auctioned off with prize packages. Prizes include room and show packages at New York, New York, Luxor and Excalibur, show tickets to LOVE by Cirque de Soleil, Terry Fator and Frank Caliendo, dining at Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina, The Pub at Monte Carlo and Tacos & Tequila at Luxor, family four-packs to the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay and Adventuredome at Circus Circus, autographed UFC memorabilia and two brand new electric guitars.

For the remainder of the summer, SAM TOWN presents Rock Town, a free weekly concert and dance event featuring Las Vegas-based classic rock cover and tribute bands. The bands play under full concert lighting and the floor will be open to dance the night away. Sponsored by Miller Genuine Draft, beer specials include $2 MGD draft, $3 MGD or Miller Lite 16 oz singles and $12 MGD or Miller Lite 16 oz bucket of five. Every Friday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Admission is FREE and guests must be 21 or older to attend

PRIMM VALLEY CASINO RESORTS celebrates the official day of roller coasters with complimentary rides for Nevada residents on The Desperado Monday, Aug. 16.

Guests can be kids again and enjoy a final thrill on the exhilarating Desperado roller coaster before summer draws to a close and the school year kicks into gear. Daredevils may get a breathtaking view of the Valley from 209 feet before plunging at tremendous speed into a succession of twists and turns. A swift and giant coaster, the Desperado is 2.43 minutes of pure heart-pounding fun.

SILVERTON CASINO is kicking off August by adding to its list of fun, ongoing summer activities for Discovery Card Club members. The Discovery Card Club is the SILVERTON’s free rewards program that immediately lets guests earn valuable gaming points, special incentives and much more. Must be 21 or older to sign up.

Summer activites include: “Date Nite” Tuesdays where Discovery Card Club members can enjoy the perfect weeknight date with dinner at the Seasons Buffet for $5 per person and a free movie in the Pavilion starting at 7:30 p.m. The first hit from the big screen being shown is “Casablanca.” Other classics being shown in August will include “Blue Hawaii” on Aug. 10, “Some Like It Hot” on Aug. 17, “On the Town” on Aug. 24 and “Roman Holiday” on Aug.31. The Pavilion will be transformed into the perfect setting for movie night with candy concession stands, popcorn, ice cream and a full-service bar.

$1 Drink Thursdays: Discovery Card Club members can enjoy $1 drinks all day on Thursdays. From sunrise to sundown guests can enjoy well drinks and domestic drafts for only $1 at all of the restaurants and casino bars.

Did you know LAS VEGAS HILTON invites locals to a ‘Cool By The Pool Happy Hour!’? Located on the 3rd Floor Pool Deck COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION 4 p.m.–8 p.m. DAILY Live Entertainment from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Daily Drawings at 7 p.m., 2-for-1 drinks, $2 shrimp cocktails. and $3 ceviche.

While I was out of town I missed my good friend Frank Marino’s book signing and meet-and-greet at the IMPERIAL PALACE. I sent him my best regards and heard that Frank was adorned in one of his dazzling Divas Las Vegas costumes, as he signed his new cookbook, Dining with the Diva. A portion of the proceeds from this whimsical book went to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada. The book offers a collection of over 120 vibrant photos and delightful recipes. This unique and entertaining cookbook is sure to become a kitchen’s centerpiece, with meals fit for a king…and queen!

Cookbooks are available for purchase at the IMPERIAL PALACE box office for $20. (Proceeds of ongoing cookbook sales to also benefit the foundation.)

By the way, Las Vegas’ longest running headliner/female impersonator Frank Marino (who has entertained Las Vegas audiences for more than 25 years) is now performing his very entertaining show “Divas Las Vegas” at 7p.m. at the IMPERIAL PALACE SHOWROOM on the 3rd floor.

Frank Marino & Z.Z.

They’re back and will be giving their all to audiences. Zowie Bowie, makes a triumphant return to RED ROCK RESORT beginning September 3. Chris Phillips and Marley Taylor, who are Zowie Bowie moved to Vegas in 2006 from Scottsdale, Ariz. to open and perform weekly at RED ROCK RESORT where they quickly went on to become the city’s favorite local band. After three years, the pair moved to the Strip where they performed both their nightclub dance concert and their dream of an authentic Vintage Vegas show.

After becoming a Las Vegas favorite, Zowie Bowie, Chris Phillips and Marley Taylor’s relationship took a tumble. They split and ended their successful duo engagements. I don’t know what has happened since, and if they are together again as a couple in a relationship, but Las Vegas audiences are lucky that once again they will have this talented duo back onstage where they belong. Zowie Bowie brings its unique blend of today’s hottest dance, hip-hop and Top 40 music to audiences at Rocks Lounge every Friday, beginning Sept. 3. Zowie Bowie will feature the musical talents and unbridled energy of Chris Phillips, the beautiful Marley Taylor and a high-voltage band that creates a sizzling and sexy sound.

Doors open at 10 p.m. and the show will start at 11 p.m. The show is open to adults 21 years or older and there is no cost for admission. VIP bottle service is available upon request. Entry will be first-come, first-served and based upon venue capacity.

Entertainment at RED ROCK RESORT in addition to Zowie Bowie includes the Sandbar outdoor poolside concerts this summer that features top artists such as Rob Thomas, Don Henley and Train, to the Party on the Rocks concert series every Saturday night.

CANNERY Casino & Hotel presents a special Military Appreciation Show featuring Lee Greenwood in The Club on Saturday, September 5 at 8 p.m. Best-known for his inspiring patriotic ballad, “God Bless the USA,” Lee Greenwood has been captivating audiences for decades with his distinctive voice, insightful lyrics and devotion to his fans and country.

Before writing one of the most heartfelt patriotic anthems in American history, Lee Greenwood was a farmboy with a love for music and could play nearly every instrument in his school orchestra by age 14. After being discovered by famed country music manager, Larry McFadden, Greenwood signed with MCA Records Nashville and recorded his country debut album, “It Turns Me Inside Out.” Over the span of his career as a recording artist and songwriter, Greenwood has released twenty-two albums and thirty-eight singles including, “Somebody’s Gonna Love You,” “I Don’t Mind the Thorns (If You’re the Rose),” “I.O.U.” and “God Bless the USA.” Greenwood has twice been awarded Male Vocalist of the Year by the Country Music Awards and won Song of the Year for “God Bless the USA” in 1985. With its soulful lyrics and soaring melody, “God Bless the USA” has been voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America and is often played to boost the American spirit in times of both celebration and hardship. Lee Greenwood is driven by his ability to spread joy through his music and continues to establish himself as an entertainer with passion, depth and heart. Tickets are available now in four levels: Table $79.95, Gold $34.95, Prime $24.95 and Reserved $14.95. Discounts are available for active duty and retired members of the military who show valid identification.

At the other CANNERY, the EASTSIDE CANNERY Casino & Hotel celebrates its two-year “Canniversary” with a special performance by award-winning R&B musician Brian McKnight in the Casablanca Event Center on Saturday, August 21 at 8 p.m.

Brian McKnight’s entertainment career has been nothing short of prolific with roles as a singer, songwriter, producer, talk show host and Broadway performer. As an R&B artist, McKnight has released 13 albums to date, several of which have gone platinum to triple-platinum, and claimed industry accolades including the Image Award for Outstanding Male Artist and the Soul Train Award for Best R&B/Soul Male Album. In 2007, Brian McKnight made his Broadway debut in the musical Chicago. As a TV personality, he has appeared as a red carpet host for Extra!, starred as a contestant on Celebrity Apprentice and currently hosts his own late night talk show, The Brian McKnight Show.

And in Marilyn’s Lounge at the EASTSIDE CANNERY you can enjoy the following: Aug 18–22 M.O.C.C.A. (R&B, Soul & Funk Revue, 5—45 min. sets) Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 7 p.m.–1 a.m. and Friday, Saturday 8 p.m.–1 a.m.

Aug 25–26 The Fab 7 p.m.–11 p.m. (Tribute To The Beatles, 4—45 min. sets) and

Aug 27–29 one of my favorite Bands—The Lon Bronson Band (R&B, Rock, Soul & Funk, 3—45 min. sets) Friday, Saturday 9 p.m.–12 midnight Sunday 8 p.m.–11 p.m.

Art Vargas has been a Vegas mainstay for many years. His great personality and talent in his live vintage show was akin to a Big Bad Voodoo Daddy show band way before Big Bad Voodoo Daddy became famous. Art Vargas’s Live Vintage Vegas 90-minute show will be at RAMPART CASINO’s Addison’s Lounge August 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. and August 22 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the Cage and $20 at the door.

At Addison’s Lounge on Aug 26—Ronnie Rose Presents “It’s Gotta Be Swinging” and on Aug 27, 28—Las Vegas Classic Jazz Band 8 p.m.–12 midnight

Tony Sacca’s Las Vegas Rock’s Café now presents “Vegas The Tony Sacca & Vegas The Show-Girls

Show” in their Embassy Theater. “Vegas The Show” is an evening musical and humorous multi-media journey through the history of Las Vegas from 1930 to the present day and into the year 2050. Show stars entertainment ambassador Tony Sacca, comic impressionist Tom Wallek and “Vegas The Show-Girls.” Wed., Thur., Sat. & Sun. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $29.95 plus tax. With a 3-course dinner, $49.95 plus tax. Las Vegas Rock’s Café is downtown in the Neonopolis Center.

THE NEVADA BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION (NBA) 15th Annual NBA Hall of Fame Scholarship Dinner—recognizing and showcasing excellence in Nevada’s radio and television industry—will be held on Saturday, August 28, at the RED ROCK RESORT at 5:30 p.m. The dress for the evening is cocktail attire.

During the event, Jim Rogers, Chairman Emeritus for the Nevada System of Higher Education and owner of Sunbelt Communications, which operates 16 television affiliates in five states, will receive the highest honor the NBA bestows upon a Nevada broadcaster—the Lifetime Achievement Award. His work in broadcasting over the past forty years has been legendary. His philanthropic work is unparalleled. And his dedication to education has set a standard that few can equal.

The evening program begins at 7 p.m. with a special performance followed by a Salute to America, the Awards Ceremony, dinner, dessert, entertainment and dancing. The cost for the evening of celebration is only $75 per person. (Tables of 8 are $600; Tables of 10 are $750; Tables of 12 are $900.) This affordable price is made possible by generous donations. Proceeds will be used to fund scholarships in the name of Linda and Tony Bonnici for passionate students who are attending or about to enter college/university and will be studying Broadcasting. For more information, please call Earlene Lefler at the NBA office, 702-794-4994.

Shag Me Salon hairstylists and people interested in a charitable excuse to look like a rock star can do so on Sunday, Aug. 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-ins only; regular customers can request their favorite

stylist at Shag Me Salon 4110 S. Maryland Pkwy., Suite 21 at the corner of Maryland Parkway and Flamingo Road.

The Shag Me Salon is holding its third annual Shag-a-Thon where the stylists get creative in the name of charity. For a $20 donation, customers receive both a quality wash and cut as well as a chance to hang out with the retro trendsetters that make up the Shag Me Salon team. All proceeds, including stylist’s tips, will be donated to American Cancer Society’s signature event, Relay for Life. In addition to the Shag-a-Thon, this year will also feature a bake sale and local artists offering their services, such as pinstriping, earrings and character artists, with all proceeds benefiting Relay for Life.

The LIBERACE FOUNDATION & MUSEUM is seeking enthusiastic, outgoing volunteers to greet guests, serve as a Museum guides, assist in the Gift Store and Cabaret Showroom and more. A unique atmosphere, the Museum gives volunteers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to help preserve the dedication to the legendary Liberace in a space filled with his rare antiques and treasures. In addition, volunteers receive a complimentary lunch for each day of service and are afforded the opportunity to see shows in the Cabaret Showroom. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. No experience is necessary. To learn about volunteer opportunities available at the Liberace Foundation & Museum, contact Shirley Swift at 702.798.5595 or sswift@liberace.org.

Legendary Icon and world-renowned humanitarian Jerry Lewis continues to personify the fight against neuromuscular diseases. As National Chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MD) since 1951, he is a strong leader who battles with fierce determination on behalf of millions of Americans affected by these disorders. To his millions of fans, he is not only an admired actor, comedian, director, producer and teacher, but a humanitarian striving to provide “his kids” a better future. The 2010 MDA Telethon will be broadcast live from Michael Gaughan’s SOUTH POINT HOTEL CASINO in Las Vegas beginning Sunday, September 5th at 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST and concluding on Monday, September 6th at 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST. The annual entertainment spectacular raises millions of dollars for MDA’s research, services and education programs.

Jerry Lewis National Chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association

Jerry Lewis National Chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association