BRETT’S VEGAS VIEW
Date: July 8, 2018
DIVAS CLOSES AT THE LINQ
Rather suddenly, one of Las Vegas’ longest running shows, “Frank Marino’s Divas Las Vegas,” closed at the Linq. Marino with his memorable Joan Rivers impersonation has been the show’s host for the male cast of female lip-syncing impersonators paying tribute over 33 years to such superstars as Madonna, Cher, Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Tina Turner, etc.
The show starring Marino, now 54-years-old, opened in 1985 at the former Rivera as “An Evening at La Cage.” In 2010, the show moved to the Imperial Palace, which became the Quad and now the Linq.
This is a show which may very well end up on the Strip again.
COLIN KANE WILL DEBUT COMEDY RESIDENCY AT HARD ROCK
Colin Kane, recognized as a master insult comedian, has signed on for his first residency inside Vinyl at Hard Rock beginning on Friday, July 27 at 8:30 p.m. His new R-rated show, “The Wolf,” is a biting adult comedy experience with Kane tackling relationships, dating, adult-only memorable encounters, and anyone sitting in the front row. This attack comedian, who has made insult an art form, is an equal opportunity offender. Being a master of working-the-crowd, guarantees no two shows are alike.
Kane is a Los Angeles resident, who was born and raised in New York. With his popularity proving contagious, Kane has been able to build a dedicated fan base by word-of-mouth.
Kane will perform again on Aug. 31 and Sept. 28 with more dates to be announced. Tickets start at $25.
FLO RIDA UNVEILS MEMORABILIA CASE AT HARD ROCK
Hip-hop artist Flo Rida recently unveiled a dedicated memorabilia case at Hard Rock prior to appearing at the resort’s Rehab Beach Club. The display located on the casino floor has the multi-platinum selling rapper’s personal items including a custom-made embroidered and beaded denim outfit by Robin’s Jeans, a pair of Christian Louboutin sneakers, and Philipp Plein sunglasses.
The Rehab Beach Club’s resident performer is celebrated for having more live performances than any other artist in day-club’s 15-year history. In addition, Flo Rida is celebrating 10 years since the release of his debut single “Low.”
BRIAN MCKNIGHT WILL LIGHT UP THE JOINT
R&B legend Brian McKnight will appear at The Joint at Hard Rock on Friday, July 27 at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $39.50.
McKnight’s extensive catalog includes 19 albums released over the past 25 years. With 16 Grammy Award nominations, numerous chart-topping songs, and more than 30 million albums sold worldwide, McKnight has earned a viable spot in contemporary music history.
McKnight has also starred in the Broadway production of “Chicago” and been a red-carpet host for TV’s “Extra!” In addition, the singer, songwriter and producer, is a multi-instrumentalist who plays nine instruments including piano, guitar, bass, drums, percussions, trombone, tuba, flugelhorn and trumpet.
TRIPLE GEORGE CELEBRATES 13TH ANNIVERSARY WITH JULY SPECIALS
Triple George Grill located across the street from the Downtown Grand was a trail blazer 13 years ago when it opened. It was one of the first independent eateries to emerge and survive in the beginning years of the revitalization of downtown Las Vegas and its eclectic urban dining scene.
To celebrate its longevity, Triple George Grill will celebrate its 13th year of serving classic American-style steaks, chops and seafood beginning on Friday, July 13 by rolling out 13 “lucky” days of All-Day Happy Hour at the Triple George Bartop, $13 power-lunch pricing, and a shout out to all “Georges.”
“Cheers to George” is a returning campaign running July 13-20. How this dining promotion works is any solo George will receive a complimentary appetizer with their meal; double Georges, which is any two Georges dining together, will be served a whiskey flight and dessert gratis; and triple Georges feasting together will receive a 96-ounce porterhouse steak and house wine free for the table.
For all non-George folks, the 96-ounce porterhouse experience will be offered to any single guest at the special, anniversary price of $130 dollars. All-Day Happy Hour will feature daily specials and give-a-ways.
NEW EXHIBIT AT BELLAGIO TAKES A LIQUID VIEW
Primal Water: An Exhibition of Japanese Contemporary Art is the new exhibition with 28 works in various forms at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Arts (BGFA) running this year through Oct. 21. The exhibit curated by Midori Nishizawa highlights important works of post-war Japanese art using water as a motif to present a view of Japanese Contemporary art history by 14 featured artists spanning four generations. The approach to the water theme by the artists takes a myriad of directions including waters absence, abundance, existence, and relationship with humanity. General admission is $14; check on discounts.
LIVE PAINTING DEMONSTRATIONS AT MAGICAL MEMORIES GALLERY
Professional artist Miss Mindy, known for her cartoon folk art with a vintage feel and expressive larger-than-life eyes, will be appearing at the Magical Memories Featuring Disney Fine Art Gallery inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace Friday-Sunday, July 20-22.
During her visit, Miss Mindy, whose work is described as “Cartoon Folk Art,” will spotlight all three of her collections including; the Disney Collection, Candy Circus Collection, and Deluxe Collection. She will be doing live painting and figurine signing at the free public events: 4-7 p.m. July 20; noon-2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. July 21; and noon-2 p.m. July 22. All three collections will be available to purchase at the gallery.
WESTIN HOSTS PADDLE & PLANKS YOGA EVENT AT LAKE LAS VEGAS
Want to really test your balance? So-Fit Events is holding Paddle & Planks, a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) yoga event for all levels, at The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa on Saturday, July 28 at 8 a.m. This event combines stand-up paddleboarding with an invigorating yoga class taught by Tiffany Zoldan with Lake Las Vegas Water Sports. All participants will receive a swag bag and a digital photo. The prize drawing will include a swimsuit and rash guard, dining certificates, and more. Tickets, which include the equipment rental, are $35 on Eventbrite.
BEAUTY BAR HEADLINES DIVERSE MUSIC STYLES
Beauty Bar located on Fremont East downtown has lined up experimental pop-punk band, I Set My Friends on Fire, and Canadian folk group, Timber Timbre, in August.
I Set My Friends on Fire from Miami, Fla., will be bringing their “10 Years of Slaughter” tour to town and play their debut hit album “You Can’t Spell Slaughter Without Laughter” in its entirety. The band will be joined by Annisokay and 7 Minutes in Heaven. Tickets are $13 in advance online or $15 day of the show pending availability.
Folk ensemble Timber Timbre from Ontario, Canada, is recognized for their cinematic and haunting sound, which has been featured on television programs such as “Breaking Bad” and “The Good Wife,” and films like “The Last Exorcism Part II” and “The Gambler.” The group will perform favorites from their “Out of This Spark” album, as well as their most recent album, “Sincerely, Future Pollution.” Tickets are $16 in advance online or $19 day of show pending availability.
‘AUSSIE HEAT’ CELEBRATES THREE YEARS IN LAS VEGAS
“Aussie Heat,” which debuted at the D downtown in 2015, relocated within a year to the V Theater inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, where it is performed four nights a week. “Aussie Heat” now features six new dancers, new dance numbers, and an all-new beachy look honoring the group’s down-under roots.
The Australian-based show is comprised of eight classically trained dancers in street, break and hip-hop dancing. The sexy male dance group has appeared on “Australia’s Got Talent” and “So You Think You Can Dance Australia.” Tickets to the electrifying show start at $54.99.
To celebrate the anniversary, “Aussie Heat” is offering a special bachelorette party promotion, where bachelorettes receive $10 off tickets, and the bride’s admission is free along with a guaranteed onstage experience. In addition, all VIP ticket groups of 10 or more include complimentary transportation.
ENTERTAINMENT HIGHLIGHTS
Anita Baker, who received the 2018 BET Lifetime Achievement Award, will headline the Encore Theater at Wynn for three shows Aug. 29-Sept. 2. The eight-time Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter’s show is part of the Anita Baker – Farewell Concert Series.
Florida Georgia Line will headline five nights inside Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood around the time of the Wranglers National Finals Rodeo running Dec. 6-15. Dates for “Florida Georgia Line Live From Las Vegas” with Big Loud Records and Atlantic Records artist Mason Ramsey as the opening act are Dec. 1, 5, 7, 8 and 11.
Wynn Las Vegas is planning to get aboard the Christmas holiday train with its first-ever seasonal production “The Holiday Show.” The musical with holiday hit tunes, comedy and multi-genre dance numbers will be staged in the Encore Theater Nov. 30-Dec. 30.
Diana Ross will return to Wynn for a third headlining engagement at the Encore Theater this fall. The Lifetime Achievement Award-winner will perform nine shows between Oct. 31 and Nov. 17.
Celebrity social media influencer Perez Hilton will be the special guest host for the Chippendales at the Rio for six weeks running Thursday through Sunday, July 26-Sept. 2.
The Atlanta rapper Playboi Carti event at The Joint at Hard Rock on Sunday, July 29 has been relocated to House of Blues at Mandalay Bay at 7 p.m. Tickets already purchased for the event will be delivered by House of Blues using the initial method of delivery. Tickets may also be refunded at the original point of sale.
Harrah’s resident non-verbal headliner Tape Face will be performing July 1015 and 17-22 before the “America’s Got Talent” finalist leaves to perform at Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland. His show will resume at Harrah’s on Sept. 7.
At any given time, there are celebrities enjoying Las Vegas and surprising visitors. An unexpected appearance was made recently by the Black Eyed Peas’ Taboo when he visited Hyde Bellagio and onstage performed the group’s Grammy-winning song, “I Gotta Feeling.”
MASTER CLASSES CONTINUE AT WYNN
Upcoming classes at Wynn include Master Pasta Making on Friday, July 13 at noon and Sushi & Summer Cocktails on Friday, July 27 at 3 p.m. Both classes cost $150 each.
The pasta event will be held in the kitchen at Costa de Mare. Attendees will create their own handmade pasta with executive chef Mark LoRusso and his team. Involvement will include kneading, rolling, cutting and filling ravioli, garganelli and herbed tagliatelle before cooking and enjoying the lunch.
Pairing sushi with a mixed drink, which can heighten the dining experience, will be the focus of the Sushi & Summer Cocktails class being held in Andrea’s at Encore. Wynn’s assistant director of beverage development Andrew Pollard will share his tips and techniques for creating cocktails, which won’t overpower the delicate textures of sushi. Master sushi chefs at Andrea’s will provide the savory bites to sample throughout the interactive demonstration.
DINING – BEVERAGE NEWS ITEMS
The Underground at The Mob Museum is now selling its house-distilled moonshine and proprietary vodka starting at $19.95 for 750 milliliters and $5.99 for 50 milliliters. The Underground Moonshine corn whiskey is made with double-distilled, 100-percent corn mash on-site and measuring 100-proof. The Underground Vodka, handmade in Nevada, is 80-proof.
Enclave, an off-Strip multifaceted meetings and event facility, has added a new catering partner. Acclaimed chef, restaurateur, television personality and author, Emeril Lagasse and his off-site catering brand, Emeril’s Catering, now have preferred vendor status.
Last week, Beer Park at Paris started “Beer and Rosé Thursdays,” which takes place from 6-8 p.m. every Thursday through Aug. 30. The weekly event offers brewery-fresh beer and Stemmari rosé by the glass along with live music from a local DJ and classically-trained violinist Lydia Ansel.
Sharky’s Modern Mexican Kitchen, formerly Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill, will open its second Las Vegas-location this month at 5070 Blue Diamond Road, west of Decatur Boulevard. The fast-casual restaurant offers modern menus items made-to-order using organic and non-GMO ingredients. Reimagining its modern approach to Mexican cuisine, Sharky’s maintains its commitment to organic, clean eating.
Andiron Steak & Sea in Downtown Summerlin will hold a Green Our Planet Dinner focusing on a multi-course “school-to-table” dinner menu featuring local produce harvested from school gardens on Tuesday, July 10. Las Vegas-based Green Our Planet is a nonprofit conservation organization founded in 2013 with the mission to help conserve, protect, and improve the environment through education, which includes building outdoor and indoor gardens in schools. Cost is $59.
PT’s Entertainment Group, with 59 taverns throughout the Las Vegas Valley and Nevada, will salute National French Fry Day on Friday, July 13 by offering fresh French fries for $1 at all locations, which include: PT’s Pub, PT’s Gold, PT’s Ranch, PT’s Brewing Company, Sean Patrick’s, Sierra Gold and SG Bar.
Esther’s Kitchen, an Italian restaurant Downtown, will recognize National Ice Cream Day, Sunday, July 15, by offering complimentary house-made ice cream in a variety of seasonal, creative flavors that day for guests who purchase at least one food item.
SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN OPEN OFFER BOGO TICKET
Tickets are on sale for Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, Las Vegas’ official PGA TOUR event, which is part of the FedExCup regular season. The weeklong charitable tournament will be held Oct. 29–Nov. 4 at TPC Summerlin highlighting 132 of the world’s best golfers.
There are two BOGO - two buy-one-get-one ticket – offers available through Sunday, July 15; call 702-873-1010. The general admission daily ticket allows access to the tournament grounds for $15. The Hill daily tickets offer views overlooking holes 16-18 from a 10,000-square-foot pavilion for $35.
Fans 18 and younger receive free admission to the tournament grounds when accompanied by an adult. Additionally, military and first responder personnel can receive complimentary admission to the tournament grounds.
MGM RESORTS HOSTS JAPANESE ARTIST MWKAIYAMA IN PUBLIC STUDIO
Kisho Mwkaiyama, a notable Japanese artist, has begun work in a public studio at Bellagio on a new art installation, Vendarta 100: Six Elements and The Seasons. Through January 2019, Mwkaiyama will work on a commissioned artwork comprised of 24 square gouache paintings, which upon completion will join the MGM Resorts Fine Art Collection and be installed permanently at Mandalay Bay. The artist is working in space next to Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, which has a guest lounge for viewing and learning more about Mwkaiyama’s artistic practice.
ABOUT TOWN TIDBITS
The 64-room Resort on Mount Charleston, located about 40 miles northwest of downtown, has had numerous owners since opening in the 1980s and been sold again for $4.8 million to Colin and Deanna Crossman. The North Carolina couple, with smaller hotels in that state, are planning changes to the Kyle Canyon Road retreat including renaming it The Retreat on Charleston Peak, making physical and decorative upgrades, and instituting changes to the menus and bar hours.
Artist Mark Vranesh’s upcoming exhibit running until Sept. 1 will be at Trails Rachel’s Kitchen in Summerlin. There will be a free public reception with Vranesh on Thursday, July 19 from 5-7 p.m. The gathering will include an informal conversation with the artist about his new direction of art.
Gaming action at the Rio has the famous World Series of Poker running through July 14. The prize pool is expected to be around $60 million with the winner likely earning $8 million. This premier annual event attracts poker pros, celebrities and average folks from more than 85 nations. Last year, 7,221 players participated, and the winner, New Jersey’s Scott Blumstein, took home $8,150,000.
Lucha Libre Las Vegas will present an afternoon of pro-wrestling action for all ages on Sunday, July 22 at The Sahara Event Center at 800 E. Karen Ave. Doors and meet-and-greet are at 1:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $15 and $5 for children 14 and under.
