May 2019
Here are 6 Interesting facts about the month of May:
1. The month May was named for Maia, the Greek goddess of fertility.
2. In any given year, no month ever begins or ends on the same day of the week as May does.
3. May’s birthstone is the emerald which is emblematic of love and success.
4. May was once considered a bad luck month to get married. There is a poem that says “Marry in May and you’ll rue the day”.
5. The United Kingdom celebrates May as the National Smile Month.
6. On May 1, 1931, the Empire State Building was officially opened.
May makes you feel alive. It is another one of those perfect months in Las Vegas. The weather is great. Entertainment is plentiful. School is almost out. The summer season is almost upon us, and the pool party schedule is active until September. May has always been an instrumental month for shows…especially new ones. Shows have to get established in May if they are going to survive in the summer. If a show can survive the summer then they’ll usually do well in the busier fall season.
May is a lot of things…it is Date Your Mate Month, National Barbecue Month, and National Blood Pressure Month.
May 1st is of course May Day (initially started as another pagan spring festival pre-dating Christianity.) Dancing around a pole might sound like a Vegas tradition, but there really aren’t a lot of maypole dancers out there. The one rhyme that is most closely associated with the May Pole dance is “Ring around the rosy…” –a quaint nod to the plague in medieval times. In the late 19th Century, May Day was chosen as the date for International Workers' Day by the Socialists and Communists of the Second International to commemorate the Haymarket affair in Chicago. In those countries that celebrate International Workers' Day, the day may also be referred to as "May Day" but it is a different celebration from the traditional May Day…just thought you should know. It is also Mother Goose Day.
The 2nd is Baby Day and Brothers and Sisters Day. The 3rd is Lumpy Rug Day. May the Fourth, obviously, Star Wars Day, and Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for May the 5th. The 6th is International Tuba Day, National Tourist Appreciation Day, National Nurses Day, No Diet Day, and Space Day. The 7th is National Tourism Day and World Naked Gardening Day (There will be a lot of hoes out.) The 8th is V-E Day, and No Socks Day…which is interesting because the 9th is Lost Sock Memorial Day. It is then followed on the 10th by Clean up Your Room Day. The 11th is Eat What You Want Day and Twilight Zone Day. And the 12th is Limerick Day (There once was…)
The 13th is Mother's Day!!! The 16th is Love a Tree Day, National Sea Monkey Day, and Wear Purple for Peace Day. The 18th is No Dirty Dishes Day and Visit Your Relatives Day. The 20th is Be a Millionaire Day. The 21st is Armed Forces Day. The 22nd is Buy a Musical, Instrument Day, and World Goth Day,
The 23rd Lucky Penny Day; the 24th National Escargot Day, the 25th National Wine Day and Tap Dance Day, the 26th is Sally Ride Day, and the 27th is Sun Screen Day.
The 28th is Amnesty International Day, and International Jazz Day. The 29th is Learn About Composting Day. The 30th is Water a Flower Day. And finally, the 31st is Save Your Hearing Day.
Cinco de Mayo is a big celebration in Vegas. Every bar and club will have Cinco de Mayo celebrations…Save water, drink a margarita. The date is observed to commemorate the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is sometimes mistaken to be Mexico's Independence Day—the most important national holiday in Mexico—which is celebrated on September 16.
Remember that Mother's Day is on the 12th. If you're in town, there are several shows that will offer specials for you and your mother; every buffet and restaurant in the city is offering some sort of deal. Remember your Mother!
May 15th is the 114th Anniversary of the founding of the City of Las Vegas. No one really cares about this statistic. We had a great 100-year celebration, and we may have to wait for the 125 or 150-year mark to get the city to celebrate again.
FUERZA BRUTA had its final show at Excalibur Hotel & Casino on Sunday, April 7, 2019. Slow ticket sales were the problem, with the production selling only an average of 50 tickets per performance…the venue held 1500. The acclaimed production, which has been seen by more than six million spectators in more than 34 countries and 58 cities since its launch in 2003, will continue to impress audiences from around the world as it prepares to make the move from Las Vegas to MGM Cotai in Macau in June 2019.
Wynn Resorts ended it two-year-old paid parking program in Las Vegas, announcing it was offering free self-parking at its Wynn Las Vegas and Encore garages for all guests, without limitation, and without the need for validation. The move – which takes place May 1 – is the first reversal in the trend that began in 2016, when MGM Resorts International began charging for parking at its Las Vegas Strip resorts.
MGM Resorts International eliminated 254 positions companywide and will have another round of layoffs in the coming weeks, according to a memo to employees from Chairman and CEO Jim Murren. The memo, first reported by the Vital Vegas website, said the positions were being eliminated as part of the casino giant’s MGM 2020 program, a company-wide cost-cutting and efficiency effort that includes $100 million in reduced labor costs. MGM executives said the plans would lead to an additional $300 million in cash flow by 2021.
Las Vegas resident James Holzhauer (famed Jeopardy game show mega-winner) is giving back to his hometown community-and to his favorite Museum. James and Melissa Holzhauer, members of the Museum and frequent visitors with their daughter, surprised the Museum with a $10,000 donation this week. "We think the museum is an amazing resource for the Las Vegas community and we can't wait to see how our donation helps it move forward," said James Holzhauer, Las Vegas resident and record-winning contestant on the game show, Jeopardy. The Holzhauers directed their donation to support the Live Animal Department and the "Open Door Program" for at-risk students, allowing these students a chance to visit the Museum at no cost.
Following the tremendous success of his shows, GRAMMY®-winning global superstar Armando Christian Perez, aka Pitbull, will return to Las Vegas in 2019 for the fifth consecutive year of his residency, taking the stage at Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and delivering eight high-energy performances of “Time of Our Lives” presented by SiriusXM. From Mr. 305 to Mr. Worldwide, Pitbull has landed #1 hits in over 15 countries, sold more than 80 million singles, has 84 million Twitter/Facebook/ Instagram followers and over 13 billion views on YouTube. His world tours have sold out concerts in North and South America, Europe and the Far East.
The eight performances going on sale are: May: 10, 11, 15, 17, 18, 22, 24, 25
Following a history-making North American tour last year, Florence + the Machine returns this spring for a run of dates including a Las Vegas stop at T-Mobile Arena Friday, May 17 at 8 p.m. Produced by Live Nation, Christine & the Queens will join as special guest in Las Vegas. The band recently shared “Moderation” and “Haunted House,” the first new music since their massively acclaimed 2018 album High as Hope. The songs are receiving immediate acclaim with Rolling Stone praising Welch’s “unmistakable powerhouse vocals” on “Moderation” while Stereogum describes the song as “a huge cinematic stomper.” In contrast, The FADER calls the more delicate “Haunted House” “classic Florence theatricality” and Billboard notes that it “reveals Welch’s somber side.”
Comedy sensation Luenell is bringing her sidesplitting standup to SLS Las Vegas® “Tommy T. Presents: Luenell” will perform Sundays at 7 p.m. inside The Sayers Club® through Sunday, May 12. A force of nature, Luenell has been seen in hit movies and television shows for nearly three decades. Best known for her breakout role in the blockbuster comedy “Borat,” Luenell has also appeared in hit films including “So I Married an Axe Murderer,” “The Rock,” “Hotel Transylvania,” “Taken 2” and, most recently, the Academy Award-nominated “A Star Is Born.”
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will welcome reggaeton star Nicky Jam to The Chelsea stage over Cinco de Mayo and fight weekend on Friday, May 3, for the only Las Vegas stop on his Intimo tour. Nicky Jam’s commercial success has spread globally with catchy songs including The AP’s 2018 Song of the Year, “X,” dance track with Steve Aoki, “Jaleo,” and “El Perdon,” the hit collaboration with Enrique Iglesias that spent an impressive 30 weeks atop the Hot Latin Songs chart. The Latin GRAMMY-award winning artist has achieved renowned success and reggaeton superstardom since exploding onto the scene in the early 2000’s. Slated for 2019, the artist will join the cast of the highly anticipated sequel to renowned film "Bad Boys" in its third installment, "Bad Boys for Life", working directly alongside Will Smith and Martin Lawrence.
Ariana Grande has announced a Las Vegas date for her upcoming North American The Sweetener World Tour. The multi-platinum superstar will perform at T-Mobile Arena Saturday, May 11 at 8 p.m. 2018 marked yet another historic year for GRANDE. She concluded a banner 12 months with the distinction of being named Billboard’s “Woman of the Year” and received a pair of GRAMMY® Award nominations in the categories of “Best Pop Vocal Album” for her latest album Sweetener and “Best Pop Solo Performance” for “God Is A Woman.” Simultaneously, her recent single “thank u, next” bowed at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and smashed the record for “Most Spotify Streams for a Song By A Female Artist in a Single Week.”
Finnish rockers Apocalyptica created their own genre in 1996 and changed the landscape of heavy metal music for years to come with the cello-driven rock opus Plays Metallica by Four Cellos. Now, they are adding additional dates to their 2018-2019 world tour, including a stop at The Smith Center in Las Vegas on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Upon its release, Plays Metallica by Four Cellos was a new approach to the hits of the biggest metal band the world has seen. Apocalyptica has been touring the world in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the groundbreaking album throughout 2018 and will continue the celebration into 2019 with a brand-new set of U.S. dates as well as the release of their new live album Plays Metallica by Four Cellos – A Live Performance available as a 2CD+DVD, 3LP+DVD and digital album.
Pepe Aguilar’s "Jaripeo sin Fronteras," tour will play in Las Vegas on Cinco De Mayo for the first time. Featuring Pepe Aguilar and his brother Antonio Aguilar, Hijo, and children Leonardo and Angela Aguilar, the show will take place at MGM Grand Garden Arena Sunday, May 5, 2019 at 8 p.m. Pepe Aguilar’s "Jaripeo sin Fronteras” tour made history in 2018, where he performed for more than 100,000 fans over five nights and sold out venues throughout Mexico and the United States. “Jaripeo Sin Fronteras” is a unique show that blends the tradition of the authentic jaripeo, music and great production values along with Pepe and his family, exalting Mexican traditions and values.
Taking Back Sunday commemorates their 20th anniversary with a two-night performance at House of Blues on Saturday May 4 and Sunday May 5, 2019. If you can’t believe that Taking Back Sunday has been around for 20 years, you’re not alone, because they can't either. Although the pride of Long Island has had a handful of member changes over the years, the current lineup of the band – vocalist Adam Lazzara, guitarist John Nolan, drummer Mark O'Connell and bassist Shaun Cooper – have all been there since the beginning. From the band’s landmark 2002 debut Tell All Your Friends to their most recent full-length, 2016’s Tidal Wave, Taking Back Sunday has evolved from a key player in the early 2000s emo scene to a genre-defying rock band never ceasing to push the limitations of their sound.
New Kids On The Block, the multiplatinum selling pop super-group, unveiled an epic lineup for their highly anticipated 2019 tour. NKOTB took to The Today Show plaza to reveal The MixTape Tour with very special guests Salt-N-Pepa, Tiffany, Debbie Gibson and Naughty by Nature. The five iconic pop and hip-hop acts will hit the road together for the first time ever on a 53-city tour across North America next summer, including a Las Vegas stop at Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 8 p.m.
Seven-time GRAMMY winner and Pollstar's three-time top female country touring artist, Carrie Underwood, will launch a new arena tour, "The Cry Pretty Tour 360," in Spring 2019. Sponsored by CALIA and promoted by AEG Presents, the new tour will stop by the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Saturday, May 11, 2019. She will be joined on tour by special guests Maddie & Tae and Runaway June.
Fremont Street Experience, the six-block entertainment district located in historic downtown Las Vegas, invites guests to turn it up "One Louder" and celebrate the return of Downtown Rocks with a powerhouse lineup featuring a diverse range of chart-topping talent from around the world. Music fans of all ages can rock out under the iconic Viva Vision canopy during the free concert series which kicks off on Friday, May 24 with American rock band, Good Charlotte and continues with full-length performances by some of music's most sought-after acts including Cheap Trick, Nelly, Sugar Ray, Buckcherry and more. Downtown Rocks will continue throughout the summer with additional dates and talent to be announced at a later time. Upcoming shows include:
May 24 – Good Charlotte
June 15 – Nelly
June 29 – Sugar Ray
July 20 – Fuel, Toadies and Sponge
July 27 – Pop 2000 Tour hosted by Lance Bass with O-Town, Aaron Carter, Ryan Cabrera and Tyler Hilton
Aug. 17 – Buckcherry
Aug. 24 – Cheap Trick
Aug. 30 – The Wallflowers
Sept. 28 – Smash Mouth
Oct. 19 – Muddfest featuring Puddle of Mudd, Saliva, Trapt, Saving Abel and Tantric
Legendary Rockstar Rod Stewart will return to Las Vegas this fall for eight shows only of his acclaimed residency “Rod Stewart: The Hits.” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted singer-songwriter will kick-off a year-long European tour this May, making these Las Vegas concerts his only US shows of 2019. “Rod Stewart: The Hits.” will run Sept. 18. through Oct. 5, 2019.
The eight 2019 show dates going on-sale are:
Sept.: 18, 20, 21, 24, 30
Oct.: 2, 4, 5
Rod Stewart is one of the best-selling artists in the history of recorded music, with over 200 million records sold worldwide. His signature voice, style and songwriting have transcended all genres of popular music, from rock, folk, soul, R&B, and even the Great American Songbook; making him one of the few stars to enjoy chart-topping albums throughout every decade of his career.
The Hollywood Vampires— featuring Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, and Johnny Depp will perform at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas on Friday, May 10. Completing The Hollywood Vampires live lineup will be mainstay guitarist Tommy Henriksen (Alice Cooper), along with rock star musician friends Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper) on drums, Chris Wyse (The Cult) on bass, and Buck Johnson (Aerosmith) on keyboard and vocals. Cooper and good friend Johnny Depp got together and decided the spirit of The Hollywood Vampires should live again —minus the drinking. Cooper and Depp were joined by Joe Perry, who is an old friend of both, and the recording began: a tribute to the original Hollywood Vampires. An environment was born for great artists to hang, laugh and play together.
Famed metal band, HELLYEAH marks their first live performance since the tragic passing of their bandmate and brother with A Celebration of the Life of Vinnie Paul at House of Blues Las Vegas on Saturday, May 11, 2019. HELLYEAH in association with Live Nation will donate a portion of each ticket to the American Heart Association in honor of Vinnie Paul Abbott. With a revered metal pedigree of its members, HELLYEAH's Blood for Blood was the album metal fans and critics were waiting for. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hard Rock album chart, setting the bar incredibly high for the band. HELLYEAH, does not disappoint with their fifth album, UNDEN!ABLE.
Following the release of his new single “Robbery” and accompanying Cole Bennett video, Chicago artist Juice WRLD has announced his upcoming North American tour. The tour will make a stop at The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas on Friday, May 3, with support from Ski Mask The Slump God and The Lyrical Lemonade All-Stars.
Chart-topping country music star, Gary Allan, will deliver a raucous live performance at M Pool as part of M Resort Spa Casino’s summer concert series on May 4. Winning over fans, peers and critics with his signature blend of smoldering vocals and rebellious lyrics, Gary Allan has become a force on the country music scene by remaining true to his artistic voice each step of the way. Currently finishing up work for his upcoming EMI Nashville release, Allan’s last album, Set You Free, topped the Billboard 200 Pop Chart, and debuted at the top of the Billboard Country Album chart. It also produced his fifth number one country radio chart-topper, “Every Storm Runs Out of Rain.” Since releasing his first album in 1996 titled Used Heart for Sale, Allan has released eight additional studio albums selling over 8 million albums and 10 million tracks. The California native has also been certified platinum on three back-to-back albums, been certified gold five times, has five number one hits on country radio and 14 top-ten hits, and has amassed over 1.8 billion total streams.
Hit rapper, Tech N9ne is taking his talents to House of Blues Las Vegas on Wednesday May 1, 2019. Unloading beats and making the "Hood Go Crazy," Tech N9ne started out in the indie rap scene, growing from an underground trailblazer to the leader of a rap empire by utilizing mainstream artist collaborations. The Kansas City rapper holds the record for the longest tour in hip-hop history, with 90 shows in 90 days.
Other announcements this week include:
Wednesday, May 1 | Tech N9ne
Thursday, May 23 | Matisyahu
Monday, June 3 | Fonseca – Simples Corazones Tour
Friday, June 21 | Mystery Skulls – Inside B Side at House of Blues Las Vegas
Tuesday, July 23 | August Burns Red: 10 Years of Constellations Tour
Suncoast Showroom will bring top performers to the Suncoast Hotel and Casino in May, including “CSN Express – Tribute to Crosby, Stills and Nash Show,” “Queen of Comedy” Sommore and “Rockin’ the Paradise – Tribute to Styx Show.”
CSN Express – Tribute to Crosby, Stills and Nash Show
Saturday, May 11
CSN Express will take audiences on a musical journey back to the ‘60s and ‘70s, paying tribute to the folk-rock supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) and celebrating their musical career, spanning five decades. The tribute band will perform exceptional renditions of CSN’s music, starting with songs from their debut at the 1969 Woodstock Festival, to their collaboration with rock icon Neil Young, and on to the songs that got CSN inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. CSN Express will perform the band’s best-known hits, including “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” “Teach Your Children” and “Southern Cross.”
Sommore
Saturday, May 18
Sommore began her career in the mid-‘90s as the first woman to host BET’s “Comic View.” Soon after, the comedienne’s fame skyrocketed after hosting Russell Simmons’ “Def Comedy Jam” and “Showtime at the Apollo.” She went on to receive the Richard Pryor Award for Comic of the Year. In 2000, Sommore went on to star in the “Queen of Comedy” tour, performing in front of a record-breaking audience of more than 50,000 people in Atlanta, Ga. The movie based on the tour later became the longest-running and highest-rated special in the history of Showtime Networks.
Rockin’ the Paradise – Tribute to Styx Show
Saturday, May 25
Audiences will be transported back 30 years as they experience the legendary rock group Styx’s greatest hits and high-energy performances with tribute group, Rockin’ the Paradise. Rockin’ the Paradise will bring the chemistry, passion, energy and note-for-note accuracy that Styx is known for to the stage. The tribute group will also perform their excellent recreations of Styx’s trademark, high-pitched harmonies, along with their dynamic guitar sets and rhythm section.
Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel and Casino proudly presents the 12th annual Grand Poker Series May 28 – July 8, 2019, hosted in the Grand Event Center with more than 90 poker tournaments spread across 42 days ranging in both buy-in amounts and poker disciplines. Of the 90-plus events on the schedule, 21 are in forms other than No Limit Hold’Em, including stand-alone Omaha 8 or Better, Pot Limit Omaha, Stud, Short Deck and Big-O events, along with mixed game formats including Razz, Stud, Stud 8 or Better, Pot Limit Omaha, Omaha 8 or Better, 2-7 Triple Draw and Big-O. Buy-ins range from $100 to $1,000.
Academy Award-winning actress and comedian Mo’Nique’s groundbreaking residency at SLS Las Vegas® will continue through summer 2019. Meeting popular demand, “Mo’Nique Does Vegas” will perform inside The Sayers Club® through June. Since its January debut, “Mo’Nique Does Vegas” has been met with acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Delivering consistently sold-out performances.
As part of her farewell concert series, R&B music legend and eight-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter Anita Baker will perform at The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas for a five-night limited engagement inside The Venetian Theatre. The show will be held May 31 and June 1, 5, 7 and 8, 2019. Baker's decades-long career has included four platinum and two gold albums with signature R&B hits including "Caught Up in the Rapture," "Sweet Love" and "Giving You the Best That I Got." Her unique voice has the sultry vibe of a jazz singer and has been the cornerstone of a sound that has helped to shape R&B since her solo career began in the early ‘80s. Although the Detroit-bred contralto established a musical style that has noticeably influenced an entire generation of talents, Baker herself has remained unmoved by the ebb and flow of trends in the industry.
From sidesplitting comedy to mind-blowing magic, entertainment's top headliners are returning to The Mirage Hotel & Casino later this year.
BERT KREISCHER
Kreischer, a stand-up comedian who performs to sold-out crowds across the country, is known as one of the best storytellers of his generation. His latest special, "Bert Kreischer: Secret Time," recently debuted on Netflix. TV audiences know him as host of the Travel Channel's "Trip Flip" and "Bert the Conqueror." He is a regular guest on "The Joe Rogan Experience," hosts the popular web-series "Something's Burning" and hosts his own podcast "The Bertcast."
Saturday, June 1
Saturday, Nov. 16
JEFF ROSS & DAVE ATTELL: BUMPING MICS
Ross has roasted many infamous stars including Bruce Willis, Justin Bieber, Joan Rivers and Charlie Sheen which earned him the title of "The Roastmaster General." Attell's caustic wit, rapid-fire delivery and choice of material is best described as "very adult." His stand-up series "Insomniac" as well as his one-hour special "Road Work," were both featured on Comedy Central and he was seen in the 2015 comedy "Trainwreck," starring Amy Schumer. The comedy duo recently released "Bumping Mics" on Netflix. The comedy series consists of three episodes of lively two-man stand-up. Each are headliners individually, but when they combine forces their joke per minute ratio is off the rails.
June 7 – 8
ILIZA SHLESINGER
Iliza will return to the Aces of Comedy stage this summer with her impressive style of relatable comedy that invites both women and men to laugh at themselves and one another. Iliza is now one of today's leading touring comedians with a legion of loyal fans who go so far as to create their own Iliza-inspired swag to wear to her shows. In addition to having her first book, "Girl Logic" published, she recently co-starred opposite Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne in the film "Instant Family." She will next be seen co-starring opposite Wahlberg again in the Netflix film "Wonderland," directed by Peter Berg. Her fourth Netflix special, "Elder Millennial," is now streaming on Netflix.
Saturday, July 6
Saturday, Sept. 21
SHIN LIM
Lim redefines the way close-up magic is presented by performing carefully self-choreographed routines rather than pretending to defy the laws of physics. Combining dexterity, precision and grace, he has distilled a lifetime of training into a devious display of dancing digits. His mind-boggling finger moves are so masterful, the audience is left wondering if what they have seen is truly possible. Lim is respected by esteemed magicians for his skill and poetic performance and is considered an inspiration to many young magicians. Lim admits, however, that he is not a magician nor a wizard and has no intention of lying to the audience.
Friday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 29 at 7:30 p.m.
DANIEL TOSH
Tosh is back for more when he returns to the Terry Fator Theatre as part of the 2019 Aces of Comedy series. His unusual mind has earned him the admiration of his peers by winning over audiences with his unique brand of stand-up comedy that has made him one of the most requested headliners in the country. His casual style and sharp material have garnered fans both young and old.
September 27 – 28
October 18 – 19
November 1 – 2
Las Vegas Days (formerly known as Helldorado Days), an annual cowboy-themed event celebrating Las Vegas’ tribute to the Wild West, will offer two nights of rodeo at the all-new Core Arena Friday-Saturday, May 10-11, as well as the annual Helldorado Parade May 11. Celebrating its 85th year, the Las Vegas Days Rodeo is fully sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday-Saturday, May 10-11. The rodeo will feature bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding and bareback riding, with prize purses totaling $40,000 and custom belt buckles for the champions.
Aliante Casino + Hotel + Spa will bring highly-acclaimed entertainers to Access Showroom in May, including “Queen of Comedy” Sommore and contemporary jazz group Spyro Gyra.
Sommore
Friday, May 17
Sommore began her career in the mid-‘90s as the first woman to host BET’s “Comic View.” Soon after, the comedienne’s fame skyrocketed after hosting Russell Simmons’ “Def Comedy Jam” and “Showtime at the Apollo.” She went on to receive the Richard Pryor Award for Comic of the Year. In 2000, Sommore went on to star in the “Queen of Comedy” tour, performing in front of a record-breaking audience of more than 50,000 people in Atlanta, Ga. The movie based on the tour later became the longest-running and highest-rated special in the history of Showtime Networks.
Spyro Gyra
Saturday, May 25
Formed in Buffalo, New York, Spyro Gyra is a contemporary jazz group that has been performing for audiences around the world for more than 40 years. Throughout the group’s career, Spyro Gyra has sold more than 10 million albums and played more than 5,000 shows in five continents.
Celebrating three decades of jazz in Las Vegas, Clark County Parks & Recreation announces the talent that will be performing at the 30th annual Jazz in the Park Concert Series. Taking over the Clark County Government Center Amphitheater, Jazz in the Park boasts live performances, picnic and seating areas, and an array of food and drinks to choose. This year, Jazz in the Park will host Norman Brown on May 11, Tito Puente Jr. on May 18, Raul Midon on May 25, Althea Rene, Selina Albright and Kayla Waters on June 1 and Paul Taylor on June 15. The admission and parking for the event is free and open to all ages.
The West Coast of the United States will welcome JUANES with open arms this May in a series of shows in which the artist will perform all of his greatest hits, including his most recent release “La Plata.” a single that has already reached double platinum status due to its digital sales. The tour will make a Las Vegas stop at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino’s 2019 Concerts on the Beach Series sponsored by MillerCoors and Pepsi Sunday, May 26 at 9 p.m. The tour will see the Colombian superstar present the new evolution of his show, which will include striking new visuals and a never seen before lighting design.
Multi-Platinum R&B group B2K (Omarion, Boog, Fizz and Raz-B) are adding a Las Vegas date to their limited engagement tour kicking off this month, entitled "The Millennium Tour." The iconic group, along with special guests Mario, Pretty Ricky, Lloyd, Ying Yang Twins, Chingy and Bobby V, will visit the MGM Grand Garden Arena Sunday, May 26. B2K was the quintessential R&B boys group of the 2000s whose impact on the culture has remained steadfast. Although the group disbanded over a decade ago, their music has consistently stayed on top of streaming playlists and they remain a hot topic of mainstream conversation on reality TV and social media. Known for their chart-topping tracks including "Bump, Bump, Bump," "Uh Huh," "What A Girl Wants," "Why I Love You," and "Girlfriend," B2K kept the girls screaming.
The world-famous Comedy Cellar has announced the May 2019 lineup for its first West Coast location, an exact replica of its New York club, at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
UPCOMING SHOWS:
WEDNESDAY, MAY 1 THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 5 (SHOWCASE):
Dean Delray, Erin Jackson, Jeff Leach, Greer Barnes and Mark Cohen
MONDAY, MAY 6 THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 12 (SHOWCASE):
Louis Katz, Emma Willmann, Leo Flowers, Eddie Ifft and Mark Cohen
MONDAY, MAY 13 THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 19 (SHOWCASE):
Matteo Lane, Jackie Fabulous, Mark Schiff, Des Bishop and Mark Cohen
MONDAY, MAY 20 THROUGH WEDNESDAY, MAY 22 (SHOWCASE):
Rich Vos, Butch Bradley, Traci Skene, Ricky Velez and Mark Cohen
THURSDAY, MAY 23 (SHOWCASE):
Rich Vos, Keith Robinson, Ricky Velez and Mark Cohen
FRIDAY, MAY 24 THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 26 (SHOWCASE):
Robert Kelly, Rich Vos, Keith Robinson, Ricky Velez and Mark Cohen
MONDAY, MAY 27 THROUGH FRIDAY, MAY 31 (SHOWCASE):
Owen Smith, Chloe Hilliard, Traci Skene, Rocky Dale Davis and Mark Cohen
There's a disturbance in the Force at B Side in House of Blues Las Vegas as The Empire and The Rebel Alliance join together to celebrate Star Wars Day on Saturday, May the 4th. Board your X-Wing and fly down from 5 p.m. – midnight to enjoy the best live entertainment in the galaxy and $4 food and beverage specials. Dress in costume to receive 10% off your check. Full face paint and masks are not permitted on the casino floor. It is recommended to complete your ensemble once inside B Side.
The Plaza Hotel & Casino is planning downtown Las Vegas’ biggest party to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The Plaza’s Cinco de Mayo party is free to attend and will be under the bright lights of the property’s iconic dome beginning at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4. The outdoor party will be feature a variety of entertainment, including Lucha Libre Wrestling, a Mariachi band and Folklorico dancers. A DJ will also be at the dome party spinning top radio hits with a mix of Latin music. The Plaza will again have downtown’s largest piñata as well as authentic food and drinks specials will be available all night long, including street tacos from Zaba’s Mexican Grill, Margaritas, Micheladas, Modelo beer and shots of Patron Tequila.
M Resort Spa Casino welcomes Philadelphia soul group, The Stylistics, to M Pavilion for an unparalleled performance on Saturday, May 25. Known for their chart-topping hits including “You’re a Big Girl Now” and “Betcha By Golly Wow,” The Stylistics will take the stage for a full-length concert as part of the resort’s Memorial Day Weekend celebration. The Stylistics, which now consist of Airrion Love, Herbert Murrell, Jason Sharp and Barrington Henderson, got their start in 1966 after merging two Philadelphia soul groups, The Percussions and The Monarchs.
After a year of dual performances in México and the U.S., Camila and Sin Bandera extend their "4LatiDos" tour to play Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino for one night only on May 5, 2019 at 8 p.m. Noel Schajris and Leonel García, Mario Domm and Pablo Hurtado bring their talent together in 2019 for this dual tour.
The Orleans Hotel and Casino will bring highly-acclaimed entertainment to The Orleans Showroom in May, including rock band Arch Allies, Australian soft rock duo Air Supply and a six-day residency featuring country music star Billy Ray Cyrus.
Arch Allies
Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4
Featuring the classic hits of Bon Jovi, Boston, Def Leppard, Journey, REO Speedwagon and Styx, tribute band Arch Allies will rock the crowd with a collective set of ‘80s favorites. The band covers some of Bon Jovi’s biggest hits, including “Livin’ On A Prayer” and “You Give Love A Bad Name;” Boston hits like “More Than a Feeling” and “Amanda;” Def Leppard chart-toppers, including “Love Bites” and “Pour Some Sugar on Me;” Journey’s classics, such as “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms;” REO Speedwagon favorites like “Take It On the Run” and “Keep On Loving You;” and Styx hits like “Come Sail Away” and “Renegade.”
Billy Ray Cyrus – The Residency
Tuesday, May 7 through Sunday, May 12
Multi-platinum-selling country music star Billy Ray Cyrus burst into the music scene with the debut of his widely-popular, first album “Some Gave All,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts for 17 weeks in 1992. The album included one of Cyrus’ best-known, chart-topping hits, “Achy Breaky Heart,” which became a country music phenomenon, creating a new dance craze, and helped his first album sell nine million copies. Through the years, Cyrus continued to record several country music albums, impressing fans with his signature style and sound.
Air Supply
Friday, May 24, Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26
Formed in 1975, Air Supply members Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock burst into the music scene with their unique vocals, harmonic ballads and soft rock sound. Early in their career, the duo performed throughout Australia, impressing fans with hit singles like “Love and Other Bruises.” Air Supply later gained international recognition as the opening act for Rod Stewart’s North American tour.
The newest chapter of comedy on the Las Vegas Strip begins. In partnership with Caesars Entertainment, Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club at The LINQ Promenade has announced its opening lineup of featured comedians beginning May 2. With the bar open daily at 4 p.m., Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club will showcase comedic performances Thursday to Sunday at 8 p.m. with additional shows at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club aims to capture the spirit of classic Vegas with late night shows, surprise guests, high-end casual cuisine and memorabilia. The club will showcase comedians ranging from household names to up-and-coming talent curated by Kimmel and his team in a venue specifically designed by Jimmy. The dual-level 8,000 square-foot venue has an expandable showroom that seats up to 300 guests.
Performance Dates:
Harland Williams
Thursday, May 2 – 8 p.m.
Friday, May 3 – 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Saturday, May 4 – 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Sunday, May 5 – 8 p.m.
Fahim Anwar
Thursday, May 16 – 8 p.m.
Friday, May 17 – 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Saturday, May 18 – 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Sunday, May 19 – 8 p.m.
John Heffron
Thursday, May 30 – 8 p.m.
Friday, May 31 – 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Saturday, June 1 – 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Sunday, June 2 – 8 p.m.
The Super Summer Theatre is back for its 44th year and the popular outdoor series with a stellar lineup for the 2019 Summer Series. Held at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park.
The 2019 Super Summer Theatre Summer Series lineup:
Wednesday, May 22 – Saturday, June 8: Into the Woods
Into the Woods tells the story of what Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (of the beanstalk fame), and not one, but two Charming Princes have in common? The common element is the Woods. When the Witch from next door sends a childless Baker and his Wife on a quest into the woods to unravel a curse, they cross paths with some of Grimm's Fairy Tales most famous characters. Whether it's Cinderella running from her Prince, Jack climbing the beanstalk, or Rapunzel letting down her hair, everyone's wish is to live happily ever after!
With an ingenious score and timeless storytelling, Into the Woods will enchant Super Summer Theatre audiences and show them what really happens after "Happily Ever After."
Wednesday, June 26 – Saturday, July 13: A Midsummer Night's Dream
This is Shakespeare's beloved tale told anew with iconic song and dance. The Duke of Athens is to wed the Amazon Queen, whom he has taken captive after battle. But when the King and Queen of Fairies have a fantastical fallout in the forest, as they journey to the wedding, two pairs of star-crossed lovers get tangled in a web of confusion and jealousy. What could possibly go wrong that a dash of fairy magic can't fix?
Wednesday, July 31 – Saturday, August 17: Chicago
The show is based on the book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse telling a tale set in roaring 20s Chicago, chorine Roxie Hart murders a faithless lover and convinces her hapless husband to take the rap...until he finds out he's been duped and turns on Roxie. Convicted and sent to death row, Roxie and another "Merry Murderess," Velma Kelly, vie for the spotlight and the headlines, ultimately joining forces. The longest running American musical on Broadway is a sharp-edged satire and Bob Fosse classic.
Thursday August 23 - Saturday August 25: ANNIE
Annie will feature a cast including "The Vegas Phantom" Brent Barrett and winners of our SST Gala Casting Auction. Based on the Tribune Medial Service Comic Strip, "Little Orphan Annie, Annie is coming," the timeless tale of Little Orphan Annie is back, giving a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope. Boasting one of Broadway's most memorable scores, including "It's the Hard-Knock Life," "Easy Street," "N.Y.C." and the ever-optimistic "Tomorrow," Annie is a delightful theatrical experience for the entire family.
Thursday, September 5 – Saturday, September 21: NOISES OFF
Called "the funniest farce ever written," "Noises Off" presents a manic menagerie of itinerant actors rehearsing a flop called Nothing's On. Doors slamming, on and offstage intrigue, and an errant herring all figure in the plot of this hilarious and classically comic play.
A heatwave is in the forecast: The Naked Magicians, who began their first-ever Las Vegas residency in February, have announced that they will continue to perform inside Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club at MGM Grand through June 2019. Starring Mike Tyler and Christopher Wayne, The Naked Magicians perform six nights a week. Tyler and Wayne, two of Australia’s most famous magicians, bare it all in The Naked Magicians, foregoing top hats and capes for full-frontal illusions complete with magic, muscles and endless laughs. Left without sleeves or pockets, The Naked Magicians perform mesmerizing feats that are both baffling and entertaining.
The Cherrytree Music Company, Live Nation and Caesars Entertainment announce that 17-time GRAMMY Award winning musician Sting will headline a Las Vegas residency, “My Songs,” set to open at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Friday, May 22, 2020. The show will present a compendium of Sting’s songs with dynamic, visual references to some of his most iconic videos and inspirations. As one of the world’s most distinctive solo artists, Sting has received an additional 11 GRAMMY Awards, two Brits, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, four Oscar nominations (including 2017’s nomination for “The Empty Chair” from JIM: THE JAMES FOLEY STORY), a TONY nomination, Billboard Magazine’sCentury Award, and MusiCares 2004 Person of the Year.
"Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox Hideaway" debuted the interactive blast-from-the-past experience Thursday, April 18 at The Mirage inside 1 OAK Nightclub. Unlike any previous PMJ performance, this spectacle now features a rotating cast of All-Stars guaranteeing a new experience nightly. Guests donning vintage-inspired clothing were swinging and singing along with talented PMJ All-Star Ariana Savalas, who headlined the show's grand opening and will perform as a special part of the cast through Saturday, June 22. The international showgirl and songwriting sensation is famously known as the resident femme fatale and star of the vintage phenomenon Postmodern Jukebox. Known as the musical burlesque queen and the mistress of the modern Moulin Rouge, Savalas' performances are timeless and have garnered over 300 million views online, reaching No. 1 on the iTunes jazz charts multiple times.
For dates and times, be sure to log onto the Las Vegas Online Entertainment Guide: lvol.com.
Igoshows.com is, of course, the place to read the reviews of all of the shows that are in town so that you can be better informed as to what you should expect from a certain production. The reviews are updated as needed to give you the knowledge you need to spend your entertainment dollars better.
