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Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
 Las Vegas - May 21, 2010 
Connie Francis 
Dionne Warwick 
A Sign of the Times There has been plenty of interest from around the country for this weekends' show in the Las Vegas Hilton's main room. Response to the billing of Connie Francis and Dionne Warwick as co-headliners, a first ever union, has resulted in 100% room occupancy at the Paradise Road hotel casino. Rick White, VP of the Hilton, says that he has "NEVER seen a production generate this kind of national press and excitement in all of his days at the Hilton." Following a week of radio and TV talk show visits by Francis, Warwick and producer Eric Floyd, Grand Divas of Stage is expected to respectably fill up the 1600-seat theater on all three nights, tonight through Sunday (May 21st through 23rd). Among those expected to attend "The Concert of the Century" are David Copperfield, Gladys Knight, Kenny Kerr, Robin Leach, Frank Marino, Lani Misalucha, Wayne Newton, Donny and Marie Osmond, Freda Payne and Mary Wilson. Tickets are $59, $79 and $99, plus applicable taxes and fees, and can be purchased by calling the Hilton at 1-800-222-5361. And speaking of Ms. Francis...AP Music Writer, Nekesa Mumbi Moody, reports, Connie Francis' classic song "Where the Boys Are" is getting a Gaga-esque update. Francis says the producer behind some of Lady Gaga's hits, and also Destiny's Child, has produced a dance remix of the torch song. "We're going to release it on the 29th of May, which is the 50th anniversary of 'Where the Boys Are,'" she said in a recent interview. The 71-year-old singer said she hadn't heard the song, but added: "I want to hear it any way it sells." Francis said she recently worked with her godson, Rob Fusari, on the remix. Fusari recently made news when he sued Gaga, claiming he was largely responsible for her success but was ditched when she got big. For this weekend's history-making Hilton engagement, Francis and Warwick will do their own sets, and then sing together at the end of the show. Francis said she's seen a change in her fans in her decades in the business. "It used to be, 'Connie, can I have your autograph for my younger sister? Connie, can I have your autograph for my wall?'" she said. "Then it was, 'Connie, can I have your autograph for my mother?' And now it's, 'Connie, can I have my autograph for my grandmother?' I hope it stops there!" * * * * * * * Reminders...
On Sunday afternoon at 2, Travis Cloer steps out of his Jersey Boys role as Frankie Valli to do his own thing as part of the Performing Arts Society of Nevada's concert series. This will take place at the Clark County Library Theater, 1401 E. Flamingo, just east of Maryland Parkway. Travis is very talented. The show should be a sell out. For reservations, call (702) 658-6741. Tickets are $15 and may also be purchased at the library box office one hour before show time. 
Travis Cloer 
Louie Prima & Keely Smith 
The Checkmates Also, on the very same afternoon (this Sunday) at 3 (we hate when this happens), it's the musical comedy, I Know I Came in Here For Something at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin. We know about Menopause the Musical, the short-lived Hats, My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish and I'm In Therapy, and The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron - all small cast musical comedy revues with an a theme. Now comes I Know I Came In Here for Something, a four-person romp that most folks of a certain age can relate to. How many times have you gotten up out of your comfy chair, walked into another room and stood in the doorway asking yourself, "Why did I come into this room?" You're not alone. If you are middle-aged, have been middle-aged, or intend to be middle-aged, you will relate to every delightful song in this musical revue. I Know I Came in Here For Something, about the joys, thrills and horrors of being middle-aged, won rave reviews in New York's Summer Theatre. Together and apart, Las Vegas performers - Joni Illi, Jeneane Marie, Victor Moea and Tom Dyer - bring you clever songs that will keep you toe-tapping, and humor that Baby Boomers can relate to. Book and lyrics are by Carl Ritchie, with music by Wayne Moore. Laurence Sobel serves as musical director. Tickets - $15 for Sun City Summerlin residents, and $18 for non-residents - are on sale at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle community centers. For more information, call (702) 360-8340. * * * * * * * We don't even have to go back as far as the '50s, and the days (and nights) of the Mary Kaye Trio, Freddie Bell & The Bellboys, The Treniers, and Louis Prima & Keely Smith, to remember the good old days of Las Vegas lounge entertainment. Anyone who has been around, as a tourist or local, since the '70s or even into the '90s, recalls the time when just about every hotel casino had a lounge and a show band. You remember show bands - music and shtick from groups like the Vagabonds, Nitwits, Novelites, Reycards, Goofers, Characters, Happy Jesters, Winchester Cathedral, Ray Anthony & The Bookends, Dae Han Sisters , Babe Pier and Jay Orlando, Esquivel and Sun Spots, just to name a handful. Then there were those who usually took their music a little more seriously - groups and folks like The Smith Brothers, Cook E. Jarr, Wholly Smoke, Carleen Terrano, Bill Acosta, Loretta Holloway, Dondino, Hudson & Saleeby, Jerry Tiffe, Bob Anderson, Darcus, Glen Smith, John Wills, The Checkmates, Bill Acosta, Chazz, Streetcar, Tyler Murray, Ronnie David, Liz Damon and The Orient Express, Perfecto & Motion, Karen Nelson Bell (Kelly Stevens), Beverly & The Sneakers/Sidro's Armada, Brendan Bowyer's Irish Showband, Denise Clemente, and Pizazz (Frenz/Friends). Then, of course, there were the standup comics, like Don Rickles, Shecky Greene, Jackie Gayle and others, who started in the lounges before moving on to headline status. The Vegas lounges of old (and not so old), were made up of people who entertained while the audiences sat (or stood) and watched. For the most part, there was no dance floor between the performers and the drinking customers to obstruct the view. There was music, and frequently comedy, until the wee small hours of the morning, with headliners such as Johnny Carson and Bill Cosby dropping in after their shows to join groups like the Harry James band by playing drums. In the "good old days" the lounges were fun, they were free, and they were full. There was camaraderie and a connection of sorts between the paying customers and the entertainers. That's why we were very surprised and disheartened to see and hear what is going on in the Salute lounge at The Palazzo. Inside Palazzo's main showroom, is the joy of Jersey Boys, while right outside that room is a dark cloud over the Salute lounge. Here are examples of what is and isn't happening in that performance space. The musicians are discouraged from any interaction with the guests. That means no responding to song requests (even if the request comes folded up inside US currency) and no communication with the audience, before the shows, between the shows, or after the shows. What can they be thinking? No matter how good the music, why would anyone make a place that's run like Salute a regular destination on their social calendar? It appears that, for the most part, unless some smart marketing/entertainment person realizes how important this type of entertainment/socializing was to the growth of a tiny, bump-in-the-road desert town, the glory days of the Las Vegas lounges are over. May their memories linger on in the minds of those who were privileged to have experienced them, both as spectators and performers. * * * * * * * 
Danny Roque 
Beverly Washburn as Spider Baby (1968) 
Christopher-Joel Carter IV May 27th is the last Thursday of the month, and you know what (usually) happens on the last Thursday...it's Composers Showcase night. This month's lineup will feature the music of local songwriters Thaddeus and Tracey Corea, Dennis Edwards, Lee Richey, Danny Roque, Kevin Stout and The Yucca Mountain String Band, Keith Thompson, William Waldrop and Robert Williamson, and Danny Wright and Susan Haller, the delightful song stylings and vocal powers of Brandon Matthieus, Carly Thomas-Smith, Nikka Wahl and Danielle White and other special guests, plus the amazing instrumental chops of Jim Belk, Chris Davis, Tish Diaz, Paul Firak, Philip Fortenberry, Ray Pancorawicz, Dan Philippus, Joey Singer, Kevin Stout, Matt Taylor and Fred Watstein. Sound is by Richard Camuso and Mary McFadden. There is a $5 cover charge at the door (free with Student ID), a cash bar (no credit cards, please), and $5 specials at the Café. The mission of the Liberace Foundation is to help talented students pursue careers in the performing and creative arts through scholarship assistance. The Liberace Cabaret Showroom is located at 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer, next door to Carluccio's Tivoli Gardens Restaurant. And speaking of Carluccio's...Because it appears that some showcase attendees aren't quite ready to go home afterwards, Carluccio's will stay open until 2 a.m. on Thursday for The Late, Late Show. There will be drink specials and a piano available. Those that don't write music or didn't perform at the showcase, can do a song or two right next door to the museum, "Where the music continues..." Those that DID perform are also invited to sing, or play, some more. See you there! * * * * * * * Based on the 1968 cult film, Spider Baby, The Onyx Theatre, located inside The Rack fetish store in the Commercial Center (yep, you read that right), will feature a musical version of the Jack Hill classic horror film, June 4th, 5th, 11th and 12th at 7 p.m. Spider Baby the Musical tells the story of the Merrye family. Each member suffers from the same degenerative mental disorder which causes a loss of impulse control. Some distant relatives want to institutionalize the Merrye children and sell their land. Spider Baby the Musical deals with the extreme measures the family takes to stay together. This year, composer Enrique Acosta, inspired by his talented cast, has expanded the show, adding four new songs and re-arranging more than half of the original songs to give the show a darker, more raw sensuality. This play is not intended for children, as it depicts sexual situations and violence. Tickets are $25, with a $5 discount for locals. Fans of the film might be surprised to know that actress Beverly Washburn, who portrayed Elizabeth Merrye in the Spider Baby movie, lives in Southern Nevada. Now in her 60s, Beverly is still recognizable from her childhood roles in movies such as 1957's Old Yeller with Dorothy McGuire; The Greatest Show On Earth, with Jimmy Stewart and Hans Christian Andersen with Danny Kaye (both in 1952); and The Juggler with Kirk Douglas in 1953. Beverly, who may have been the busiest child actress of her era, also had roles in just about every TV series there was, from the Jack Benny Program, Zane Grey Theater, Father Knows Best, The New Loretta Young Show, Wagon Train and The Streets of San Francisco, to Star Trek. To learn what it was like to grow up Beverly Washburn, read her story in Reel Tears. Nobody could cry reel tears like little Miss Washburn. * * * * * * * Last Sunday, we attended the Grand Finale of Liberace Birthday Week at the museum that bears the entertainer's name and much memorabilia associated with his long and successful career. Among the performers who participated in the "closing ceremonies" were pianists Christopher-Joel Carter IV (who also served as MC and filled in as accompanist for some missing piano players) and Danny Wright, violinist Mr. Valeri Glava (who performs in the Liberace Cabaret on Thursdays), and singers Phyllis Bell and John Kaye. Then, there were special guests, the Allen/Zimmerman/Capaldi family - that would be singer, pianist (and other instruments), onetime Liberace protégée, Domenick Allen; his wife, musical theater star, Leigh Zimmerman; and their 10-year-old wunderkind, Cayleigh Capaldi, who won over the audience with her solo number, "No Small Miracle," a beautiful song written by daddy and daughter. Domenick accompanied Cayleigh on piano. Ali Spuck, who has an ongoing Sunday cabaret show at the museum, was scheduled to participate, but, instead was resting up after giving birth to her, and Kristofer McNeeley's (he is one of the cast members in Jersey Boys), first child, a daughter born on Saturday, the day before Mother's Day and the birthday finale. Even if the museum's director, Tanya Combs, hadn't mentioned something about the difficulty of gathering talent to participate in this event (primarily because of work schedule conflicts), we have to wonder why singer Denise Clemente, who was a Liberace protégée years ago, and pianist/singer Wes Winters, who provided ongoing entertainment in the performance space at the museum for almost five years, were not part of the talent lineup. We are sure that both parties would have been delighted to be included in ceremonies celebrating what would have been Liberace's 91st birthday. 
Anna Nateece by Jim K. Decker 
Arshiel Calatrava In a recent article, our friend and colleague, journalist John Katsilometes, suggested that the modest turnout for much of the birthday week events "served largely as a reminder that the museum needs to relocate where there is more natural foot traffic." Kats goes on to say "This is, hopefully, the final Liberace birthday celebrated on Tropicana and Spencer. He needs a new room." We disagree. Liberace doesn't need a new room. Liberace needs more and better publicity. We think that the Liberace Museum should stay right where it is, and where it has been since 1979. This is the location that Liberace chose to house his lifetime collection of kitchy treasures. It is where he oversaw the building of the Plaza and museum. The problem with the place is not due to where it sits, but to the lack of clever, inexpensive promotion. The museum used to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. We think it could be again, IF (and that's a great big IF) things were handled properly over at 1775 E. Tropicana. We are sure that if longtime Liberace associates, and those who really care, or cared, about his legacy and memory (people such as Domenick Allen, Wes Winters, and Liberace's fur designer/creator, Anna Nateece) were asked their opinion, they would feel the same way that we do. Why take on high rent, traffic, parking problems and other stressful issues associated with the Strip and hotels? Many tourists want to see other areas of the city, whether it be Mt. Charleston, the dam, Red Rock, or even the Liberace Museum. The museum offers a very interesting look into the glamorous life of Mr. Showmanship as well as of Las Vegas, where Liberace performed many weeks out of the year at places like the Riviera, Las Vegas Hilton and in the Circus Maximus (that would be BC, Before Colosseum) at Caesars Palace. The unique museum (now in its 31st year) houses automobiles, costumes, jewelry and pianos all belonging to the King of Bling and used in his worldwide concerts. Fix the problem where it is, don't move the problem somewhere else. What is saved on rent, by staying in the Liberace Plaza, could be used to promote the place. Sorry if this upsets some folks at the museum that we like, but as it says at the top of this column, we calls 'em like we sees 'em. * * * * * * * If you haven't seen the Society of Seven (and we hope you have), or have seen them and want to see them again (and we hope you do), you only have a few more chances to do so...at least this time around at the Gold Coast. After only six months at the off-Strip property, the group will end their engagement at the Gold Coast on Sunday, May 30th. We hate to see the talented members of this entertaining troupe - Tony Ruivivar, Bert Sagum, Hoku Low, Wayne Wakai, Michael Lygo, Vince Mendoza and Roy Venturina - go. They will be leaving a great big hole in the local entertainment scene. We last saw the show during Mother's Day weekend, when 15-year-old Arshiel Calatrava was filling in for the vacationing Jasmine Trias. The young Hawaiian has quite a future ahead of her. Not only is she an amazing singer, Arshiel seems wise and balanced. As for SOS in general, their shows are always fun and always entertaining. We hope they will find themselves an appropriate Las Vegas show space in which to share their talent with the public. Society of Seven (SOS) combines seven talented male performers with "American Idol" star Jasmine Trias in a family-friendly high-energy variety show. SOS features comedy sketches, celebrity impersonations, dance and live music numbers. This talent-packed showcase presents a wide range of music, including everything from popular standards to Top 40 and Broadway hits. We urge you to check them out before the end of the month. Show times are Friday through Sunday at 7. Tickets start at $34.95, plus taxes and fees. Call (702) 251-3574. * * * * * * * Michelle Johnson will be performing with Sonny Turner and The Platters at a live PBS Special taping at the Benedum Center in the Cultural District of Pittsburgh, tonight. Presented by WQED, the Oldies Spectacular will feature music from the '50s to the '70s, by artists such as Ronnie Spector, Paul Revere and The Raiders, The Marcels, Lou Christie, Jay Black, The Chiffons, The Passions, The Coasters, The Cleftones, Bill Burkette and Hugh Geyer of The Vogues, The Ventures, Eddie Holman and many more. 
Sonny Turner, Michelle Johnson & The Platters 
Lon Bronson 
Diane Ellis * * * * * * * Tonight at 8, pianist Alpin Hong will bring audiences of all ages to their feet with a concert at the Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water Street, in the Water Street District, that combines stunning technique, emotion and humor. His extensive classical training, matched with his background in skateboarding, snowboarding, martial arts, and videogames, forms a creative force unmatched in its youthful vivacity and boundless energy. Hong will conduct a week-long residency program at Basic High School prior to his concert. He will feature some of Basic's band, orchestra and chorus students in his Friday night performance. Presented by the City of Henderson and Target, the event includes pre-show activities, such as art displays and children's make and take crafts at 7 p.m. Admission is FREE. * * * * * * * If you are reading this early enough to attend, and you are a fan of The Beatles, here's something for you. Tonight, beginning at 8, The Club at The Cannery in North Las Vegas (Craig Road and I-15) is going to present, The Beatles Let It Be and Beyond...The Solo Years!, as a part of its Concert Series. The Fab are going to play the Let It Be album in its entirety. At 9, the Lon Bronson horns will join The Fab for some solo Beatles stuff - "Jet," "It Don't Come Easy," "Uncle Albert" - tunes like that. This should be fun. The evening will be hosted by the best morning man in the business, KKLZ's Mike O'Brian. Beatles fans of all ages (5 and up) are welcome. Tickets are $10 at the door (starting at 7 p.m.) on a first come, first seating basis. Lon Bronson followers can also see Bronson and the All-Stars at the Green Valley Ranch, on the second and fourth Thursdays in June (the 10th and 24th). Doors open at 8 p.m. Admission is free. * * * * * * * On Tuesday (May 18th), Steve Green of the Las Vegas Sun reported this story...
Las Vegas magician Steve Wyrick voluntarily filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation Monday, listing assets of $93,157 against liabilities of $54.355 million. The entertainer, whose show and Steve Wyrick Theater at the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood resort on the Las Vegas Strip closed Dec. 10 amid financial trouble, indicated in the filing he owns no real estate but has assets including a $44,725 2007 Porsche Carrera and more than $35,000 in "tools of the trade." Several investors and lenders are listed as creditors. The creditors include the Miracle Mile Shops, his former landlord, owed $6.623 million; businessman Byron Burke Barr in Dallas, owed $7.5 million; Chase Ventures in Dallas, owed $2 million; a Hollis Campbell/Star Mobile Homes in Crandall, Texas, owed $5 million; his former law firm, the Rycraft Law Office in Henderson, owed $100,000; and businessman Steven Tebo in Boulder, Colo., and a company he is associated with, owed $30 million. Wyrick, who lists his occupation as a self-employed entertainer, listed his current monthly income as $5,500 and said the source was "loans and gifts from mother." This compares to Wyrick's income in 2008 and 2009 of about $130,000 per year. The filing noted the Miracle Mile Shops on Jan. 15 repossessed his theater valued at $16 million and Tebo had repossessed a $250,000 motorcycle as well as pictures and posters valued at $600,000. The initial effect of the bankruptcy filing likely will be to stay proceedings in several lawsuits pending against Wyrick over past-due accounts and other matters. * * * * * * * Check out the swinging sounds of Zanzibar, next Friday and Saturday (May 28th and 29th), from 8 p.m. to midnight, in Addison's Lounge at the Rampart Hotel & Casino, 221 N. Rampart. The fellows - Joe Lepore, Hal Singer, Bob Stein, John Falbo and Scott Webb - will be joined by vocalists Diane Ellis and Sally Stewart for this engagement. Zanzibar is a favorite of visiting and local swing dancers. Join in the fun at Addison's. Call (702) 507-5900. * * * * * * * This year's Ribbon of Life 2010 spectacular will take place in the main showroom at the Las Vegas Hilton, Sunday, June 13th at 1 p.m.
The annual "Ribbon of Life" stage spectacular is Golden Rainbow's single largest source of funding. Staged each June, "Ribbon of Life" is an incredible production show featuring hundreds of singers, dancers and other performers from the best shows in Las Vegas, staging original numbers created specifically for that year's "Ribbon of Life" show. Each performer donates his or her time and talent to the production. Easily the biggest show of the year, "Ribbon of Life" is a theatrical event for all ages that leaves audiences breathless, on their feet and cheering for more. Golden Rainbow, an official 501(c)(3) non-profit, was founded in 1987 by members of the Las Vegas entertainment industry when one of their own was forced to live and die in a garage because of a lack of supportive services and financial resources. Golden Rainbow is the only HIV/AIDS service organization in Southern Nevada that provides permanent housing. Their programs also include direct financial assistance and HIV/AIDS education programs. They provide financial relief to men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, by assisting with payment of rent, mortgages, utilities, health-related costs and other life sustaining expenses. More than 80% of Golden Rainbow's funding is raised through events such as Ribbon of Life, Corporate Sponsorships and the generosity of community supporters. All of the money stays in Southern Nevadan. Tickets, priced at $200, $150, $100, $75, $50 and $25, can be purchased by contacting the Golden Rainbow office at (702) 384-2899, or online at www.goldenrainbow.org. Because of the state of the economy, and worldwide catastrophes, such as major earthquakes and other natural disasters, all seeking donations, Golden Rainbow has wisely decided make a $25 ticket available again (in the last couple of years, the bargain ticket cost was $50). For those living on a limited budget (isn't everybody?), who want to contribute to the worthy cause and see the show (even from the back of the theater), the $25 ticket gives them the opportunity to do both. * * * * * * * The touring version of Dick Feeney's Rat Pack is Back show is finishing this years' run with record ticket sales throughout the country. The National Tour, represented by the Broadway Booking Office and powerhouse agent Steven Schnepp, will conclude Memorial Day Weekend at the Trump Plaza in Atlantic City after playing more than 40 major venues this season alone. The Rat Pack is Back, created and based in Las Vegas, has been seen by more than one-million customers, in 4,700 shows in 38 states. Produced by show business veteran Feeney, and directed by Robbie Howard, the show stars Brian Duprey as Frank Sinatra, Kenny Jones as Sammy Davis Jr., Drew Anthony as Dean Martin and Mickey Joseph as Joey Bishop. The Rat Pack is Back, which recreates the "Summit at the Sands" show, circa 1960, features a full 12-piece orchestra put together by internationally renowned Lon Bronson. Now in its 12th year in Las Vegas, you can see the Rat Pack is Back, seven nights a week at 7:30 p.m. in the downtown Plaza Hotel & Casino's recreation of the famous Sands Copa Room. You can also relive the complete 1960's experience with dinner in the showroom. What happens in Las Vegas, all started with the Rat Pack. For reservations, call (702)386-2444, or visit www.ratpackisback.com. * * * * * * * 
Nelson Sardelli And now for this column's weekly Sardelli Section...
Nelson Sardelli is enjoying his new toy, a Spyder Can-Am Roadster (with a trailer on the back so he can transport his collection of past and future awards and trophies wherever he may roam). Nelson proudly admits that he refuses to accept old age gracefully. The accompanying photo confirms that. * * * * * * * Only You, the Motown-inspired dinner show starring Derek David, is up and running at Hennessey's Tavern on Fremont Street. A revival of the true nightclub dinner show, Only You invites audiences to take a trip down memory lane with some of the biggest hits ever produced in the '50s and '60s. Only You will be performed in an intimate, newly designed showroom inside Hennessey's, with a three-course dinner at 6:30 p.m., and the show starting at 8. Only You is dark on Tuesdays. "This is a resurrection of soulful music from some of the best singers in Vegas and a tribute to the original dinner show," said Derek David, 40-year member of the Platters. "Only You will fuse Motown, 50s music, 60s music and personal memories together to form a collaboration of good feelings." In addition to Derek David, Only You showcases some of the most distinctive singer/musicians in Las Vegas, Rheda K. Solo of the Marvelettes, Arnold Parker of the Platters, Terrance Forsythe, Donald Pinkney and pianist Paul Badia. Papote Varet is responsible for the choreography. Show room and costume designs for Only You is provided by the show's Executive Producer, Rita Bliss. Tickets are on sale at the Hennessey's Tavern Box Office or call 702-382-4421. Tickets will also be available online at www.Vegas.com or Prestige Ticketing 702-204-5686. * * * * * * * Jazz In The Park presents Nick Colionne at 8 p.m. tomorrow night, Saturday, May 22nd, at the Clark County Amphitheater. Colionne brings Chicago-bred music steeped in rock, jazz, blues and heavy metal. He turned professional at the age of 15, touring the country with rock bands as well as icons such as The Staples Singers and Curtis Mayfield. Although he had a jazz upbringing, Colionne became well versed in R&B, blues and heavy metal. He launched his solo career in 1994 with "It's My Turn," and has been doing well ever since. He has won the International Instrumental Artist of the Year Award at the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards, and his latest CD, No Limits, was released in 2008. Starting its 20th year, the free Jazz in the Park concert series has become a Las Vegas tradition. Some of the biggest names in jazz have highlighted this annual series, taking place at the Clark County Government Center Amphitheater at 500 S. Grand Central Parkway in downtown Las Vegas. Picnics, blankets and low back chairs are welcome. Food and drink are available for purchase on site. Sorry, no pets are allowed. The event is free. 
Nick Colionne 
Maria Menounos as Dolly 
Ronnie Milsap * * * * * * * Access Hollywood correspondent Maria Menounos recently visited the live show cast of Legends in Concert at Harrah's Las Vegas. A fan of Dolly Parton, Menounos took her turn in kitten heels and belted out the Parton hit "9 to 5" which was captured by the Access Hollywood cameras for a weeklong special of "Maria's Madcap Adventures" that aired during this last week. In addition to taking on the role of Parton, Menounos recorded with Justin Bieber, danced on Broadway and performed with New Kids on the Block. Access Hollywood airs in Las Vegas on KVBC Channel 3 at 12:30 p.m.
Photo Credit: Erik Kabik * * * * * * * Not surprisingly, we have received plenty of feedback following our story regarding the greedy musician who helped himself to tip money meant for the featured chick singer.
The shameful event took place at Frediani's (currently known as Happenings), on Sunday night, April 25th. The keyboard player that night apparently felt it was perfectly alright to help himself to the money in the tip jar and disperse it as he saw fit, even though the advertised performer, and the person who SHOULD have received the bulk of the funds was a well-known talented Las Vegan. The majority of the money (almost $200) was put in the tip jar by one gentleman, who was there that night only to see the singer. One of the letters we got came from some musicians who also were taken advantage of (financially) by the same scoundrel. This incident happened at a private party at DeStefano's (now closed). The party host was a good friend of one of the musicians, and chose to hold the party at DeStefano's where the music man was working because of that friendship. The pay for the four-man music group was built into the cost of the party, but the host gave the group "leader" a $100 tip that was to be divided up between the quartet. Call it "convenient amnesia," if you will, but until one of the music men "reminded" this guy about the tip, there had been no mention or attempt of sharing the pot. Since we know about two similar incidents, we have to wonder just how many other times this has occurred. Shame on the guilty party! * * * * * * * The Eastside Cannery Casablanca Event Center presents Grammy Award-winning country music singer and musician, Ronnie Milsap, next Friday, May 28th at 8 p.m. He was one of country's most popular and influential artists in the 1970s and 1980s. He was country music's first blind superstar. He was also one of the most successful country crossover singers of his time, appealing to both country and pop markets. Milsap's biggest crossover hits include "It Was Almost Like a Song," "Smokey Mountain Rain," "(There's) No Getting' Over Me," "I Wouldn't Have Missed It For the World," "Any Day Now," and "Stranger in My House," among others. Milsap is credited with 40 No. 1 hits in country music. He ranks third in number, following George Strait and Conway Twitty. Tickets are $24.95, $34.95 and $44.95, plus applicable taxes and fees. Call (702) 856-5470 for reservations. * * * * * * * If you happen to be anywhere in the vicinity of the MBar in Hollywood on Wednesday, May 26th, it's songwriter/entertainer and funnyman, Danny Roque in his latest show, Here We Go Again. As Roque describes it, "the nut falls from the tree once more." People have asked Danny and company to come back, so here they go again, as wacky as ever. Danny presents another night of fun and foolishness, performing all songs he has written. He is joined on stage by an amazingly talented group of friends and family. The band is also killer; Here are some of the folks they have played with: American Idol Band, Aretha Franklin, Disneyland Band, Andy Williams, NWA and The Cypress Hill Gang, just to name a few. Their show is guaranteed fun! Go hungry, as you'll also be dining from the MBar's great menu. The response to their last show was fantastic, so they expect to sell out again. Don't wait until the last minute to make a reservation. Danny heads up the Roque gang, with Nora, Chris and Angelica Roque on vocals; Las Vegan Tish Diaz on piano; Duane Benjamin, bass; Michael Sims, guitar; Jimmy Ford, drums; and Dwain Roque on percussion, with special guest, Gerry Higbie, on banjo. As Danny says, "Every show needs a banjo." Plan on being at the MBar to see what folks have been laughing about. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8. You must call Mbar, at (323) 856-0036, to make a reservation. You can check out their Web site at www.mbarhollywood.com. $15 Cash cover, $10 food min. The next night, Danny will drive pianist Tish Diaz back to Vegas, and will stay over to do a song or two at, what is becoming his second home, the Composers Showcase.
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Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - May 14, 2010 
Warning Here is an important warning notice to all tourists and locals who spend any time in casinos. In this case, what we are describing happened at a Las Vegas off-Strip property. Casino crime is probably more common than we know. We have a feeling that much of it goes unreported. Anyway, here is the story. Earlier in the week, following a show and dinner in the mostly locals place, some folks we know decided to do a little gambling (doesn't everybody?). The group kind of split up, with some people playing in one part of the casino and some playing in another part. Everyone seemed to be having a good time and, although not winning any big jackpots, were holding their own. At one point, in the early morning hour, one of the players was approached from behind by a woman who said, "you dropped your credit cards." When the player asked, "what are you talking about?," the "good Samaritan" pointed to the ground where two cards were lying. Although the slot player knew that she had not dropped any credit cards (or, in this case, gift cards), she, nonetheless, bent over to pick them up, with the intention of asking the "kind stranger" to please turn them in to security. When she turned to hand her the cards, the female was gone. So was, as the player discovered about an hour later, the victim's wallet. Surveillance video shows the con artist reaching over the "pigeon," removing the billfold from her purse, and quickly exciting the casino. The ruse was not discovered until the slot player went to tip a cocktail server and found her wallet, along with its contents, missing. There are some lessons to learn from this experience and we strongly urge readers to make a mental note. Do not take your eyes off your property, even for a few seconds. Ignore a stranger who points out a $5 bill, credit cards or anything else that would cause you to let down your guard. A loud noise, someone spilling drinks anywhere near you, bullets whizzing by your head, anything that might cause you to divert your attention. Remember that there are professional criminals lurking out there, and they want your stuff. Keep your possessions in a pocket inside your coat, in a zipped bag or anywhere else where they can't be seen or, more importantly, snatched. We were also very disappointed and saddened to learn that, it seems, the primary purpose of hotel security is to protect their property, NOT the customer. Maybe we have been watching too many Vegas-themed TV shows or movies but, we always thought that an incident, like the one described, would have been seen by those on eye-in-the-sky duty, immediately relayed to casino security who would have magically appeared at the scene of the crime and taken the guilty party into custody. We can assure you, based on what we have heard, It works NOTHING like that. You have been warned. * * * * * * * 
Diana Ross 
Brian Keith 
Matsuri From May 18th through 20th, Frank Marino will be taking a short leave from his role as host/MC of Divas Las Vegas at the Imperial Palace. On May 19th, Marino, the show's star, will be sitting in an audience instead of performing on a stage, and he will be watching a Supreme diva rather than playing one. Adam Steck, of SPI Entertainment, who produces Divas as well as Louie Anderson, Thunder From Down Under and Human Nature, gifted Frank and his life partner, Alex Shannon Schechter, with tickets to see Diana Ross' Wednesday night show at Radio City Music Hall. Miss Ross is a favorite of Marino‘s, who has seen just about every Diva in captivity. To say that Frank is excited would be an understatement. Ross, the former lead singer for The Supremes, launches her More Today Than Yesterday Tour, beginning tomorrow. The 17-city trek kicks off at the Citi Performing Arts Center in Boston, MA, and concludes June 12th at The Mountain Winery in Saratoga, CA. Other stops along the way include May 27th at Chicago Theatre in Chicago, IL; and June 9th at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, CA. According to a statement, the upcoming sessions will be backed by a live string and horn section, while Ross "will be pulling out all the stops with breathtaking costumes and stage designs." The one-month tour will pull its set list from Ross' hit-filled, 50-year career. During the first decade of her career, Ross recorded iconic hits such as "Stop! In the Name of Love" and "You Can't Hurry Love" with The Supremes. When she moved on as a solo artist in the '70s and later decades, she topped the charts with her version of "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," as well as original tunes like "Touch Me in the Morning" and "Love Hangover." The singer's most recent studio album, "I Love You," was released in the U.S. in January 2007 and debuted at No. 32 on the Billboard 200. During Frank's absence, female impersonator Brian Keith will return to Vegas to do the hosting honors in Divas. The San Franciscan is a former cast member of Finochio's, one of the most well-known drag clubs in the country. It might interest audience members to know that, in his "other life," Brian is a nurse. And while we are still at the Imperial Palace, let us mention that, now through May 26th, Matsuri is offering special savings and deals just for Las Vegans. Residents can purchase tickets to enjoy Matsuri, Japan's famed "Muscle Musical," for just $15 each (two ticket maximum purchase per person). Matsuri is an action-packed, non-verbal production that showcases extreme athleticism through a series of unique variety acts. The 75-minute high-energy show features a cast of 18 Japanese athletes, performing stunts ranging from the "Human Jump Rope" and "Judo Tango," to the "Lion Dance" and "Foot Drums." Extreme variety, extreme beauty and extreme entertainment take center stage at Matsuri inside the Imperial Showroom. Show times are 4 p.m., Saturdays through Thursdays, with an 8 p.m. show on Fridays. For more information, please call (702) 794-3261 or visit www.imperialpalace.com. Tickets can be purchased at the Imperial Palace box office. In order to take advantage of the locals special, proof of Nevada residency must be provided. * * * * * * * A couple of readers sent us a copy of this ad that appeared on Craig's List last Sunday (we are printing it as it appeared online, with spelling errors intact)...
restaurant-fully equipped and open
Date: 2010-05-09, 9:40 AM
TURN KEY AND OPERATING RESTAURANT WITH FULL LIQUOR.
Beautiful 3,000+ square foot restaurant, fully equipped and open. Restaurant was just acquired but due to health reasons it must be sold or it will be closed in about a week.
Fully equiped with 12 burner range, convection ovens, two fryers, grill, walk in cooler etc. Nicely furnished. End unit with visability on Green Valley Parkway near Sunset Road. Huge hood, handicapped bathrooms, sprinklered. Rent had been re-negociated to include cam, $5,000 per month for two years, then $6,000, then add cost of living increases after that. Landlord will go 20 years and is preparing new lease. Management agreement in place for FULL LIQUOR SUPPER CLUB LICENSE Clark County jusistction. Licensee can continue as manager OR YOU CAN APPLY FOR TRANSFER, cLARK cOUNTY LICENSE FEES ARE UNDER $1,000 TO TRANSFER, YOU PAY QUARTERLY ACCORDING TO GROSS SALES. Fully stocked and ready to go.
Reply to micmerzo@live.com or call 954-579-8166, can show it on Monday, May 10th.
Your investment buys all equipment and furnishings and includes all inventory.
Location: Green Valley. it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests. We know that this was a description of the restaurant formerly known as Frediani's (and Chiante and Trilussa) and now called Happenings. Since the place had just been taken over by new owners days before the ad appeared, we were quite curious. When we spoke to someone at the restaurant, we were told that the ad was run as a "test" of sorts, to prove that the facility had value and potential. Approximately 16 inquiries were made, before the ad was taken down the next day. According to our source, the restaurant is not for sale. And still speaking of the onetime Frediani's...On Thursday, we got a call from Enrico Santorelli, one of the former owners of the Italian eatery. Mr. Santorelli requested that we inform our readers that, as soon as he got back from a music gig in California (Santorelli is a respected bass player), he did pay singer Maggi Albisani for the fine work that she had done at Frediani's (which it was called at the time) on April 25th. We are more than happy to oblige. 
Enrico Santorelli 
Connie Francis, Eric Floyd & Dionne Warwick * * * * * * * Producer Eric Floyd and his Divas of the Grand Stage, Connie Francis and Dionne Warwick, have been hitting the radio and TV talk show circuit (The Joy Behar Show, Larry King, FOX‘s Better), both here and in New York, to promote their upcoming, history-making engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton. The two ladies will perform together, for the first time ever, when they take to the Hilton stage for 8 p.m. shows on May 21st, 22nd and 23rd. Audience members can expect to hear many of the chart-topping songs made famous by the two ladies, who, coincidentally, happen to share the same birth date (December 12th). According to an Internet site, in 1960, Connie Francis became the youngest headliner to sing in Las Vegas. Tickets, which are going fast, range from $59 to $125, plus taxes and fees, for VIP seats and perks. For reservations, call (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361. * * * * * * * If we were a betting woman (and sometimes we are), we would put a small wager on this possible scenario. We believe that by July (most likely sooner) we will see the closing of the downtown cafe being mishandled by the man that our esteemed mayor, one Oscar Goodman, named as Entertainment Ambassador of Las Vegas. This pretender wears that pseudo title like a Phi Beta Kappa key. The big difference here is that the key is earned, while this "honor" is a joke and an embarrassment to a community where true entertainment and real entertainers have reigned since the 1940s. This establishment uses House Seats to help attract customers. We have it on very good authority that the place is asking (or almost insisting) that its few unsuspecting patrons provide a business card in exchange for seats to different shows. If the customer doesn't have a credit card, they are asked to provide their e-mail address. It is very apparent that they are trying to build an e-mail list. There is a right way and a wrong way to do that. This is not the right way. Some friends who attended a show at the place one week ago today, found themselves uncomfortably warm and had to use a magazine to fan themselves. They were told that the air conditioning was down and would be back up and running within a few days. Don't know how long that "excuse" will work as, from what we have been told, the entire complex has no working air and hasn't had for well over a year (maybe two). If it's miserable in the place in May, what will it be like in July? Our guess is, over. * * * * * * * 
Travis Cloer 
Rebecca Spencer 
Philip Fortenberry We were in the audience at the Liberace Cabaret last Wednesday, when Travis Cloer (he plays Frankie Valli in The Palazzo's Jersey Boys) was joined by Ann Barr and special guest Sandra Huntsman for a Gershwin tribute. Travis did songs such as "A Foggy Day" and "They Can't Take That Away From Me," while Ann sang "How Long Has This Been Going On" and "Someone To Watch Over Me." Barr and Huntsman performed "In His Eyes," from Jekyll & Hyde. Presented by RagTag Entertainment, piano accompaniment was provided by Angela Chan. On Sunday, May 23rd, Cloer will step out of his Frankie Valli role once again, when the Performing Arts Society of Nevada presents the talented young man in his own show at the Clark County Library Theatre, 1401 E. Flamingo, east of Maryland Parkway. Travis, who will perform songs from his CD, Setting the Standard, as well as other classics and original material, will be joined by his Little Big Band - Keith Thompson on piano, Brian Czach on drums, Tyler Williams on bass, Dave Hart on guitar, Kevin Stout on trombone, Eric Tewalt on tenor sax, Eddie Rich on alto sax, and Glenn Colby on trumpet. Showtime is at 2 p.m. and tickets are $15. Much like Kristi Holden's recent library show, this should be a sell out. For reservations, call (702) 658-6741. * * * * * * * BackStage Bistro Award-winner and Broadway performer Rebecca Spencer ("Jekyll and Hyde") will be the final act for this season's Castle On the Hudson (400 Benedict Avenue, Tarrytown, NY). The performance will take place this Sunday, May 16th, at 8 p.m. Spencer, who portrayed Madame Giry in Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular at The Venetian, will be joined by her musical director, Philip Fortenberry, Broadway's most sought after pianist and associate conductor for the Las Vegas production of Jersey Boys. Her special guest star will be Broadway performer John Treacy Egan (The Producers, Little Mermaid). The evening will feature interpretations of the Broadway and American songbooks, as well as original material written specially for Ms. Spencer. Her Phantom performance prompted a review in the Las Vegas Review-Journal that read: "There's a lot of talent on display at "Phantom", but the person I can never stop watching is Rebecca Spencer." Las Vegas Magazine chose her Las Vegas concert debut as its No. 1 pick of the month. Rebecca will return to Las Vegas on June 20th for an encore performance, after her guest starring role as Solange in the Showtunes Theatre Company's production of Follies at the historic Moore Theatre in Seattle, WA. Ms. Spencer will return to the East Coast in July, with appearances scheduled at Harlan's Cabaret in New Hope, PA, as well as her Birdland debut in the Broadway at Birdland series. The Castle on the Hudson offers dinner and show packages. Overnight packages and limited advance purchase show only tickets are both available. Call (914) 631-3646 for cover/minimum information. Friends and family tickets (Concert only) are $ 20. There are ticket packages with and without dinner.
To make reservations, please call (914) 631-3646. It looks like Philip Fortenberry will be taking a little time off from his duties at Jersey Boys, as well as that mirror-encrusted Baldwin in the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum. Not only will Philip be playing for Rebecca on the 16th, today (May 15th), at 7 and 9 p.m., Philip will be performing Broadway, My Way (also available on CD) in the Bart Howard Room (composer Bart Howard wrote "Fly Me To the Moon (In Other Words)" and "Let Me Love You") at Iowa's Des Moines County Historical Society, 501 N. Fourth St. Fortenberry made his solo debut at 12, attended Julliard in NYC from age 17, and went on to serve as conductor, pianist and arranger for dozens of Broadway musicals (Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Ragtime, The Lion King, Oklahoma! and more). He has played for Laurie Beechman, Harry Connick, Jr., Barry Manilow, and Eartha Kitt, and has performed at Carnegie Hall and the White House. Philip is currently serving as the Associate Conductor for Jersey Boys in Las Vegas and tours the U.S. with his three solo concerts. When at home in Las Vegas, Philip also performs at the Liberace Museum three days a week. Fortenberry has eight CDs to his credit, the most recent, Broadway, My Way, is dedicated to his roots on the Great White Way. Thickets to see Philip Fortenberry in concert are $25. To purchase tickets, or for additional information, call (319) 753-5880. * * * * * * * 
Cynthia Robins by Martin Kreloff 
Lena Horne With his permission, we are giving readers a peek at our friend, the talented artist Martin Kreloff‘s, most recent work. Marty's latest portrait is of his dear friend, Cynthia Robins. Cynthia's other half is Chuck Hoover, the Musical Director for Rich Little. Marty's partner, Tim Olsen, tells us that Cynthia and Marty's friendship goes back to his days in San Francisco, where they met through a mutual friend in 1982. At the time, Cynthia was a real mover and shaker in the city, as she was a feature writer and columnist for the San Francisco Examiner. Her social column, Cyn City, was a must read, and she is an expert on pop culture and fashion. She has also written several books, including the best selling Barbie - Thirty Year's of America's Doll. Now joyfully retired to Las Vegas, Cynthia channels her creative energy into designing colorful jewelry of precious and semi-precious stones. This portrait of Cynthia continues Marty's recent forays into a more graphically minimalist painting style, where he relies on the symmetry between the colors that he has chosen to balance the composition of the piece. Less outlining is involved, as Marty confidently allows the relationship between the colors to play off each other directly. As is typical in a Kreloff portrait, the shapes in the hair are particularly compelling. Marty pays homage to his fascination with traditional Japanese art in the way that Cynthia's hair resembles the gently breaking waves of the Japanese master Hokusai. Some of Marty's work was on display at downtown's First Friday, May 7th. We hope you had a chance to see it. And speaking of Rich Little, Dana Stern, former Entertainment Manager at the Golden Nugget, is now working with the veteran impressionist. * * * * * * * President Barack Obama, along with many, many others, is mourning the passing of singer-actress Lena Horne, who died on May 9th at the age of 92. In a statement, Obama called the legendary Horne a most cherished entertainer who warmed hearts with her beautiful voice and dramatic on-screen performances. The president also hailed her efforts to promote justice and equality. Horne was the first black performer to tour with an all-white band, and she refused to perform for segregated audiences while entertaining soldiers during World War II. On Friday, family, friends and a star-studded roster of guests gathered to pay their respects to the late Lena Horne at the Church of Saint Ignatius Loyola in New York's Upper East Side. At the funeral mass, Horne was remembered not only for her contributions to entertainment, but for paving the way for performers of color by battling racism in her industry. The Brooklyn-born Horne got her start in show biz performing at the Cotton Club in Harlem when she was just 16. She went on to become one of the first African-American singers to perform with a major white band, as well as the first African-American actress to sign a long-term studio contract in Hollywood. Cicely Tyson, Diahann Carroll, Chita Rivera, Dionne Warwick, Vanessa Williams, Audra McDonald, former New York Mayor David Dinkins, and Horne's granddaughter, screenwriter Jenny Lumet, were among the mourners. * * * * * * * The very funny and clever Mac King recently celebrated his 10th anniversary as a headliner at Harrah's Las Vegas. Friends, including comedienne Rita Rudner, and fellow magicians, Lance Burton and Penn Jillette, attended a party to mark the impressive milestone. Nice guy King performs his Mac King, The Comedy Show, in the main showroom at Harrah's, at 1 and 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. Tickets, at less than $30, are one of the best entertainment bargains in the city. For reservations, call (702) 369-5111. 
Mac & Jennifer King 
Babe Pier * * * * * * * Reminders...
The grand finale to Liberace's birthday week (the popular entertainer would have turned 91 on May 16th) will take place on Sunday, with an impressive lineup of talent scheduled from 5:30 to 8 p.m., and will feature Ali Spuck, John Kaye, Phyllis Bell, and Danny Wright, with special guests, the multi-talented entertainer, Domenick Allen (Liberace protégée, member of Foreigner and daytime soap and musical theater performer); his beautiful wife, singer/dancer/actress (The Producers, Chicago the Musical, Contact) Leigh Zimmerman; and their 10-year-old singing daughter, Cayleigh Capaldi. Master of Ceremonies will be Christopher Joel Carter IV. The $25 ticket price includes the show, one complimentary glass of champagne (21 and over) and hors d'oeuvres. The museum is located at 1775 E. Tropicana, at Spencer. For additional information, call (702) 798-5595. * * * * * * * After completing their first night, of what was expected to be a six night engagement in The Palazzo's Salute Lounge, Doug Saleeby and Chris Hudson, better known as Hudson & Saleeby, and Palazzo, agreed to disagree on this one. It seems that this was not a match made in heaven. These two musician/entertainers, who had a Las Vegas history from the mid-1970s into 1982, relocated to Memphis where the popular entertainers work almost constantly. Their longtime fans hope they will be back in Vegas, at some point, to perform in a venue where everyone is more comfortable. * * * * * * * 
Dori Kotzan 
Darcus 
Harvey Goldson Happy birthday to our Taurus (April 21st to May 20th) friends, including Brian Keith, Brenda Leonard Cowart, Babe Pier, Lucy Shropshire, Howard Jochsberger, Dori Kotzan, Aurora Miller, Gloria Hill, Nancy Archer, Michael Sharon, Clint Holmes, Darcus Speed, Harvey Goldson, Don Rickles, Grant Philipo, Toni Tennille, Stephen Thorburn and Peter Gordon. And anniversary greetings to Sharon Holmes and Phil Mandel and Whitney and Marianne Phoenix. * * * * * * * We told the humble and shy Nelson Sardelli that if the Las Vegas Review-Journal didn't print his Letter to the Editor, we would. They didn't (so far), so, their loss is our gain...
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN OR MAY OFFEND:
Before you read what follows let me just say this: I came to this country in 1956. Totally legally mind you. Within 6 months I was drafted into the US Army, served, became a Veteran.... In 1961 I became a naturalized American Citizen..... But I still have an accent... (quite charming, I must add, which, incidentally, matches my extreme good looks....but that is for another conversation another time).... I definitely do not look Irish nor Swedish or Swahili ....and/but I have no trouble whatsoever with anyone, including the Police, asking me to see my identification documents....(and, please, don't give me the "Nazi crap"...that is pure and unadulterated bovine excretion). I will gladly show my ID(s)...including my CCW... to them and we all will go on our merry way. Simple as all that. I will neither be offended nor feel that my rights have been infringed upon.
It is about the Sovereignty of our country.... It is cool. Lighten up.... Big Brother already knows all he needs or care to know about you.... don't kid yourself.
SO..... LET ME SEE IF I HAVE THIS RIGHT:
IF YOU CROSS THE NORTH KOREAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET 12 YEARS HARD LABOR.... (and there is a possibility that they will eat your dog)
IF YOU CROSS THE IRANIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU ARE DETAINED INDEFINITELY. (and I hear... your captors may get romantically involved with your goat...if you have a goat, of course...)
IF YOU CROSS THE AFGHAN BORDER ILLEGALLY, YOU GET fatally SHOT as a warning..... and the Goat thing may also apply.
IF YOU CROSS THE SAUDI ARABIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE JAILED. .....see Iran and Afghan for the extra possible punishments.
IF YOU CROSS THE CHINESE BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU MAY NEVER BE HEARD FROM AGAIN. and you'll be asked about your dog and your neighbors cat.
IF YOU CROSS THE VENEZUELAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE BRANDED A SPY AND YOUR FATE WILL BE SEALED. .... no salsa for you.
IF YOU CROSS THE CUBAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU WILL BE THROWN INTO POLITICAL PRISON TO ROT... whilst forced to listen to all those endless Fidel Castro's ranting.
IF YOU CROSS THE U.S. BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET:
1 - A JOB,
2 - A DRIVERS LICENSE,
3 - SOCIAL SECURITY CARD,
4 - WELFARE,
5 - FOOD STAMPS,
6 - CREDIT CARDS
7 - SUBSIDIZED RENT OR A LOAN TO BUY A HOUSE,
8 - FREE EDUCATION,
9 - FREE HEALTH CARE,
10 - A LOBBYIST IN WASHINGTON
11 - BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS PRINTED IN YOUR LANGUAGE
12 - AND THE RIGHT TO CARRY OR BURN YOUR COUNTRY'S FLAG WHILE YOU PROTEST THAT YOU DON'T GET ENOUGH RESPECT ..... IS THIS A GREAT COUNTRY OR WHAT?????
I JUST WANTED TO MAKE SURE I HAD IT RIGHT......
Toni Tennille 
Nelson Sardelli 
Susan Haller * * * * * * * If you want a religious experience, enhanced by music, here are two options for this Sunday...
At Grace in the Desert Episcopal Church, 2004 Spring Gate Lane in Summerlin, singer/songwriter Susan Haller, and pianist Danny Wright will be featured in a program from 4 to 6 p.m. Every so often we find a pianist of pure radiant talent and generous heart, creative spirit and passionate soul. One that has the uncanny ability to entice a melody line to dance before your very eyes, then sit quietly, allowing you to breath sorrow into a safe space. Danny Wright's obvious love for children, animals, and life comes through strong fingers playing songs of intimate tenderness. He has lifted our lives with undeniably romantic instrumental prose and now has added Susan Haller's lyrics to some of his most dazzling pieces. A donation of $15 is suggested, with proceeds for the Grace in the Desert "Ministry Through the Arts Program." Danny will be autographing his CDs at the close of the show. While over at Christ Episcopal Church, 2000 Maryland Parkway (west side of the street-parking at the church), the Las Vegas Master Singers, directed by Dr. Jocelyn Jensen, will present the Opera Connection Concert on Sunday, also at 4 p.m. If you missed hearing the Master Singers singing with the Symphony last weekend, you can hear them sing some of the music performed again plus much more including soloists from the choir. Tickets are only $5 at the door of the church. Help support this excellent ensemble of musicians by attending the last concert of the season this week. * * * * * * * Reader Judy Thomas wanted to make us aware of a very worthwhile organization called Life Long Dreams, "Where talent is never too small...and dreams are never too big." A Vehicle for Hope, Courage and Determination. A Vision to Share With The World. Life Long Dreams is the home where dreams are conceived. The performing and creative arts program embraces individuals with special needs, who are often overlooked. The mission is to inspire these individuals to realize their artistic potential, enabling them to fully cultivate their talents by participating in a unique and special program. Life Long Dreams students will bring joy to your heart and inspire YOU to dream! On February 13, 2008, co-founders Cathy Warriner and Tshlene Henreid, conceived Life Long Dreams, a breakthrough performing and creative arts program that provides persons with disabilities specialized training and opportunities in the arts and entertainment industry. Words that cannot easily be expressed, find a way to come alive through participation in our performing and creative arts program. By integrating the arts with education, Life Long Dreams creates the foundation for students to develop their self-esteem and social skills. Local entertainers play an integral role in our student's growth too, helping them discover hidden talents and develop their artistic abilities. And, through specialized training in music, dance, drama, art, theater and production, students are given the opportunity to showcase their talents at various functions and public events. Life Long Dreams is bridging the gap between the disabled community and the arts/entertainment industry; creating new opportunities for individuals with special needs; and opening doors that have never before been opened. 
Tshlene Henreid & Cathy Warriner 
Spyro Gyra * * * * * * * The price is right is more than just the name of a TV game show, it is also a fair statement when it comes to Spyro Gyra's FREE 8 p.m. concert at the Clark County Government Center Amphitheater Saturday (May 15th). Spyro Gyra brings sounds to the series that have made the group fan favorites for more than 30 years. It started in 1974, when bandleader and saxman Jay Beckenstein, and keyboardist Jeremy Wall developed an ensemble. Through the years, Wall made his mark as a producer, while members Scott Ambush, bass; Julio Fernandez, guitar and Tom Schuman, keyboards joined Beckenstein in the honored Spyro Gyra tradition. Genre icon, Boney James, described Spyro Gyra's music in Jazziz Magazine as combining "accessible pop qualities with happy uplifting tones, bringing together elements of jazz, Latin and R&B effortlessly and unconsciously. What they're doing with electric jazz and unique instrumentation has always had a timeless quality to me." The latest CD, Down the Wire, was released in 2009. The Jazz in the Park series, now in its 20th year, is presented by the Clark County Parks and Recreation Department. The Government Center is located at 500 S. Grand Central Parkway in downtown Las Vegas. Picnics, blankets and low back chairs are welcome. Food and drink are available for purchase on site. Sorry, no pets allowed. * * * * * * * It's The Magic and Comedy of Rory Johnston in Right Before Your Eyes, tomorrow night at 7 in the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin. Presented by Michael Chapman and ChapQuist Entertainment, this is the Starbright debut of Rory Johnston, who is considered one of the top comedy/magic acts in the world today. Rory won rave reviews as the star of both the Las Vegas production show Cabaret Circus and Bedazzled in Lake Tahoe. His numerous credits include: The Magic Castle, Magic Island, Tropicana's Comedy Stop, The Improv, The Laff Stop, Chippendales Ladies Only Club, Los Angeles Variety Arts Center, Disney World and some of the most prestigious cruise lines worldwide. A sought-after director/consultant, Rory co-wrote and directed the eight-million-dollar production The Maverick Illusion Show for Warner Bros. In addition to the stunning magic and hilarious comedy, there's also Murphy the Wonder Dog. Without giving away too much, let's just say that Murphy is a large old English sheepdog who "reads minds." Don't miss this evening of magic and fun! Tickets are $15 for residents and $18 for non residents. They are on sale (cash only) at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle community centers. To pay by credit card, call (702) 869-2064. 
Rory & Cat Johnston 
Louise DuArt * * * * * * * Over at the Las Vegas Hilton, it's funnyman and Carol Burnett's longtime sidekick, Tim Conway, with his friends, comic Chuck McCann and impressionist/comedienne, Louise DuArt, tonight and tomorrow night. For tickets, from $47.91 to $69.91, and additional information, call (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361. The ever young Smother Brothers (Tom, the Yo Yo Man, is 73, and straight man, Dick, is now 70) are providing laughs at The Orleans tomorrow night and Sunday. Tickets start at $34.95 plus tax. Call (702) 365-7075.
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Tags: Diana Ross Brian Keith Matsuri Enrico Santorelli Connie Francis Eric Floyd
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - May 7, 2010
 Happy Mother's Day  Kristen Hertzenberg Satterwhite & Shea  Ali Spuck & Kristofer McNeeley One of the principals in Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular, Kristen Hertzenberg who plays "Christine Daae" in the show at The Venetian, is celebrating Mother's Day with her, and hubby Dana Satterwhite's, adorable 17-month old daughter, Shea Mitchell Satterwhite, while entertainers Ali Spuck (Here I Am) and husband Kristofer McNeely (Jersey Boys) anxiously await the due-any-day-now arrival of their brand new daughter. Unless nature pays an early call, Ali will have to wait until next May to officially celebrate Mother's Day, but because she is so close, we are giving her a special mention and sharing photos of both the expectant mom and dad to-be, as well as Kristen and Shea. If you ARE a mother, hope to ever be a mother, HAD a mother, or ever KNEW a mother, we hope you plan some kind of celebration in honor of the special day on Sunday, May 9th. If so, and you are lucky enough to be in Las Vegas on Mother's Day, here are some of the special things that are available to you and your family... Make mom's day extra special by taking her to ENVY The Steakhouse at the Renaissance Hotel, 3400 Paradise Road, on Sunday. From 11:30 a.m., to 2:30 p.m., enjoy a delicious buffet brunch and musical magic by pianist/singer, Wes Winters. Only $35 for what might be the best Mother's Day Buffet in Las Vegas. This is expected to be a sellout, so, if you want to be a part of the experience, call (702) 784-5716. 
Wes Winters 
Eva Longoria Parker 
Danny Wright The very unique, and fun, Hash House A Go Go will feature Mother's Day Brunch specials, ranging from $8.50 to $22.95, in addition to the mouthwatering, regular priced menu items. The specials include: Roast Chicken "Betsy" (Benny) - a fresh split biscuit with spinach, mushrooms and house roasted chicken topped with scrambled eggs and trimmed with basil pesto cream, all served with griddled mashed potatoes and fresh fruit. Add a glass of bubbly for just $5. Or select from Mama Margie's Brunch Favorite: Fresh Salmon stuffed with shrimp and served on corn mashed potatoes all crowned with sun dried tomato basil cream; Mango/ Peach Cinnamon Flapjack with whipped cream; Sally's Wild Child Mushroom Hash: Portobello, shitake, enoki and oyster mushrooms fresh shaved corn, asparagus, sun dried tomato and queso fresco on crispy potatoes with eggs-your way. fruit garnish and a buttermilk biscuit; Stella's Shrimp Quesadilla: Flour tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, sautéed shrimp, market tomato, brie cheese and griddled mash - all topped with basil pesto cream, and more. A special drink menu will also be available, including tasty treats such as blueberry margaritas, Gruet Rose sparkling wine and strawberry brambles, among others. Limited reservation times will be offered at the Sahara location (6800 W. Sahara) from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., and at the Imperial Palace location (3535 Las Vegas Blvd. South) from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. All other times will be first come, first served. For reservations or inquiries, please call the Sahara location at (702) 804-4646, or the Imperial Palace location at (702) 254-4646 or visit www.hashhouseagogo.com. The Imperial Palace location is also open for dinner until 11 p.m. And also at the Imperial Palace, Japan's top-selling production, Matsuri, is presenting a special dinner and show package for Mother's Day and a month-long, discount ticket price for Las Vegans. Matsuri is offering a complimentary buffet and show ticket for mother's with the purchase of a buffet package. General Admission buffet tickets are priced at $49.99 plus tax and handling. VIP ticket and buffet packages are $59.99 plus tax and handling. Guests wanting to see the show but forego the buffet are also eligible for a free ticket for mom with the purchase of a full-priced show ticket. Showtime on Mother's Day is 4 p.m. Just mention the Mother's Day special when purchasing tickets at the box office. Matsuri can be seen daily inside the Imperial Showroom at Imperial Palace. Show times are 4 pm Saturday - Thursday, with an 8 pm show on Fridays. For more information, please call (702) 794-3261 or visit www.imperialpalace.com. The Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Tower is celebrating Mother's Day with a decadent spread of culinary masterpieces at Top of the World restaurant. The Grand Buffet will open at 10 a.m., with seating until 3 p.m., with regular dinner seating starting at 4 p.m. With something for everyone, Top of the World is the perfect way to say thank you to that special woman in your life. Guests can start their meal at the iced shellfish display with shrimp cocktail, Dungeness crab claws, oysters on the half shell, ahi tuna poke and lobster ceviche with assorted sauces. Antipasto selections include heirloom tomato and buffalo mozzarella with balsamic vinaigrette and basil, Mediterranean olives medley with pickled garlic, Tabouleh salad with bulgur wheat with fresh mint, grilled spring vegetables assortment, bruschetta crostinis with caponata, chili citrus Waldorf salad, baba ghanoush and tatziki, sliced tropical fruit, assorted Danish pastries and a gourmet selection of artisan bread rolls and Caesar salad. The hot station will feature roasted vegetable frittata, crab benedict vol au vent with sun dried tomato hollandaise, petite huevos rancheros with black beans and chorizo, Yukon gold potato gratin with four cheeses, apple wood smoked bacon and chicken apple sausage, seared miso marinated Scottish salmon with baby bok choy, roasted organic chicken breast "Grand-mere" style and bacon wrapped pork dijonnaise and calvados apples. At the hot action station, guests can choose a Belgian waffle with selection of gourmet toppings, ancho chili turkey breast and pepper crusted New York with choice of peppercorn sauce and red wine mushroom. A chocolate fountain with assorted fruits and treats and a selection of petite pastries at the dessert station serves as a sweet ending to the meal. The buffet is $39.99, or $42.99 served with unlimited champagne. Treat mom to a decadent dining experience at Eva Longoria Parker's elegant Beso steakhouse this Mother's Day. Beso's Executive Chef will introduce three delightful new dishes sure to please mom's palette. The Mother's Day menu, in addition to Beso's steakhouse dining menu, will be available on Sunday, May 9, from 5:30 until 11 p.m. Gorgeous outdoor patio dining options are available. For reservations, please call 702.254.BESO (2376). Beso's chilled avocado soup will tantalize the taste buds, featuring hints of grapefruit, topped with crab and micro cilantro, available for $14. A petite filet and half main lobster paired with potato cake brava, asparagus and a hollandaise sauce is a satisfying main course option, available for $42. And for a decadent and mouthwatering grand finale, Beso will offer fresh plantain crepes spiced with brown sugar and topped with brulee bananas, for $12. Longoria Parker's celebrated steakhouse, Beso, is located in Crystals, at 3720 Las Vegas Boulevard South in CityCenter. Recently named "Best New Restaurant" by the 2010 Las Vegas Review-Journal annual readers' poll, Beso features a flavorful menu with Latin influences. The dining room and patio are open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. until midnight. The lounge is open Sunday through Tuesday from 5:30 to 11 p.m., and Wednesday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. until 2 a.m. For more information about Beso, please visit the website at www.besolasvegas.com or call (702) 254-BESO (2376). Pianist Danny Wright will be busy on Mother's Day weekend, appearing tomorrow (Saturday, May 8th) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Child Focus 7th Annual Mother's Day Tea, held at the Springs Preserve Crossroads Commons Amphitheater, 333 S. Valley View. On Sunday at 6 p.m., the Ft. Worth transplant will be performing in the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum, 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer. 
Arshiel Calatrava with SOS 
Dangerous Curves 
ABBACADABRA At the Gold Coast, the famed show band, Society of Seven, introduces 15-year-old singer, Arshiel Calatrava, to the musical comedy act. Show times are at 7, Fridays through Sundays. For reservations, call (702) 251-3574. A perfect and appropriate Mother's Day gift will be served up tomorrow (Saturday, May 8th) at 7 p.m., in Sun City Summerlin's Starbright Theatre, by the ladies of Dangerous Curves. Girl Talk is a true potpourri of time-tested audience favorites, from classic songs by artists like the Andrews Sisters and Judy Garland, to the Billboard hits and Broadway melodies you've come to love...plus a special inspirational section dedicated to all the wonderful Moms out there. All this and more, performed by Karen Michaels, Margaret Menzies, and Lisa Smith, the fabulous girls of Dangerous Curves. Tickets are $15 for Sun City residents, and $18 for non-residents (ticket price includes LET), and may be purchased at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle community centers from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. All ticket sales are check or cash (exact change required). No credit cards accepted. Call (702) 240-1301 for more information. The Starbright Theatre is located at 2225 Thomas W. Ryan Blvd. in Sun City Summerlin. Over at the Las Vegas Hilton Theater, tomorrow and Sunday (May 8th and 9th), it's ABBACADABRA, the ultimate ABBA concert, presenting 20 of the group's greatest hits in full ABBA fashion and flair. Songs like "S.O.S.," "Super Trooper" and "Dancing Queen" are re-created with such precision, you'll swear you are listening to the originals themselves. The melodies of "Fernando" and "Chiquitita" will rekindle those feelings of first loves. "Take a Chance on Me" and "Voulez Vous" will lift you out of your seats to dance. The show is authentic in music and dress and is performed to live music that will leave you excited and melancholy, at the same time. The members of the five-and-a-half year old ABBACADABRA are Gary Raffanelli, Sandy Shelby, Fred Sampson and Lesley Green. Readers may remember Raffanelli and Selby as the musical duo known as Gary and Sandy. Performing together for 37 years, the twosome were Southern and Northern Nevada lounge favorites. Shows are at 8 p.m., with tickets priced at $29-$39 (plus tax and service charge). Please Call the Hilton Box Office at (800) 222-5361 for tickets, or click here to book online. We will let readers know about Raffanelli's non-singing life as a piano builder in next week's column. * * * * * * * 
The Edwards Twins 
Derek David's Only You 
Hudson & Saleeby From the pleasant and upbeat to the unpleasant and, in our opinion, unbelievable, comes this Las Vegas tale...
For many years, Cousin Claire has been a friend, fan and supporter of the talented Edwards Twins. We were at the, now but a memory, North Beach Café, when the identical twin brothers debut their new act - that of impersonating well-known stars. What makes these two so unique is the fact that Anthony Edwards takes on the look and persona of an assortment of male celebrities, with Elton John, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel, and Stevie Wonder among them, while brother Eddie Edwards turns himself into ladies of the stage and screen, such as Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler and Cher. The twosome have done quite well for themselves, performing all around the country since joining forces professionally about two decades ago. Although both men have homes in Las Vegas, and their mother lives here, other than a couple of showcase performances in the Club Madrid at Sunset Station, Anthony and Eddie had never had any kind of ongoing Vegas show. Late last year, the duo decided that they would like to take a break from touring and find themselves a local stage where they could settle in for a while. For a short time, it seemed that they might join the Pitbull of Comedy Bobby Slayton, comic impressionist Rich Natole, and Penny Lane (a Beatles tribute revue), sharing space in the intimate upstairs venue at the Tropicana. When the Trop decided they wanted to use the former home of Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop (now conducting business at the Sahara) for something else, everyone was sent packing. The Edwards Twins went looking for another performance space, which they found at Hennessey's Tavern in downtown Las Vegas. With the help of good guy and former Boyd Gaming exec, Howard Jochsberger, they turned a vacant nondescript room in Hennessey's into a cozy little dinner-showroom and opened for business in late December. All appeared to be going well, with decent numbers, satisfied customers and good reviews from the media. In March, we were told that the fellows would be leaving "for a few months," to play some well-paying dates in and around Cape Cod, and they would be returning to Hennessey's in September or October, to pick up where they left off. For the months they were going to be gone, Anthony Edwards told us that they would be subleasing the Hennessey's theater space to singer Derek David for his show, Only You. It was suggested by us that the brothers not change the name of the room, from The Edwards Twins Showroom, to anything else, so their "brand" would still be out there for the show-going public to see. Nothing seemed amiss until we learned that the twins had no real lease agreement with Hennessey's and, therefore, could not legally sublease the space to anyone else. Nonetheless, they (or HE, depending on whose story you believe) tried to do just that. Derek David and his wife Rita were expected to pay a $2000 security deposit, plus $1000 a week, to "rent the room" at Hennessey's. They agreed to do this. The Davids plan was to redo the space to their specifications, with a classy 1940s Ciro's nightclub look, and launch their show, Only You, on Saturday, May 1st. Other than the fact that checks were not made out directly to Hennessey's, nothing about this arrangement seemed suspicious or unusual... UNTIL Hennessey's let the Davids know that they wanted them to open Only You earlier than May 1st. Why? Because, according to a Hennessey's representative, it was costing the restaurant/ brewery money while the theater space was not in operation. How could that be, if they were collecting $1000 a week in rent? It turns out that they weren't. The money was going into an Edwards Twins bank account. Derek David requested a meeting with the brothers. The meeting took place at David's office on Thursday afternoon (April 29th) at 5. Cousin Claire was asked to be there during the confrontation, but could not attend because of Friday column deadlines. Since Mr. David wanted us to be witness to the gathering, he suggested using an out of sight speaker phone so that we could eavesdrop on what took place in that office. That's what happened. For approximately 45 minutes, we listened to the conversation that took place between Derek, Rita, Hennessey's Andrew Northam, and the twins. It was evident that the brothers were caught completely off guard, both by the subject of the meeting and the fact that Mr. Northam was present. There were raised voices, claims of "a misunderstanding," and lots of denial. He wasn't renting the ROOM, claimed Anthony, but the equipment. Four thousand a month to USE lights, a soundboard and some other items? Did Mr. Edwards really think that the Davids, who are sharp business people, would agree to that, when they could BUY or use their own equipment for the job? As we had known Anthony and Eddie for more than 20 years, and had no reason (outside of some occasional exaggerations on their part), not to trust them. We were not only disappointed, but shocked at what these two (or one) tried to pull. We wanted to get an explanation on all of this and called Anthony (it is he who seems to make the business decisions for the twosome), leaving him two messages on his answering machine. We were quite surprised to get a return call from him at 11:19 p.m. on Saturday, May 1st, as earlier we had received an e-mail saying that he had just listened to the two messages we had left over the past couple of days and, because he was so busy, he would not have a chance to get back to us until the following week. We asked how things were going and what was happening in his life. According to him, everything was fine and dandy, and he was happy as a clam. When we asked specifically about downtown, Anthony continued his upbeat, positive tale and reminded us that the Davids were getting ready to open their new show that very night. When we said that we had heard there were some problems between themselves and Hennessey's and the Davids, Anthony denied that, saying everything was great. When we asked about the Thursday meeting, Anthony "didn't know what we were talking about" and denied, over and over, that he was never at a meeting with Derek, Rita and Andrew! He also let us know that all of this (whatever this is or isn't) was "none of our business." Because he had told us of his plans to return to Hennessey's, and we printed that information, we absolutely felt that it became our business. He forbid us from mentioning Derek Davids name, continued to deny any knowledge of a meeting, and told us that any relationship we ever had was over and to never call him again (we won't). He also threatened to take us to court if we wrote anything about this. Mr. Edwards should save his money on an attorney, as we have proof and witnesses that this all really happened. To tell the truth (which we always do) the conversation was frightening, as we felt we were dealing with someone with very serious mental issues. We feel that this type of behavior, and the negative publicity it might generate, could result in some serious consequences for The Edwards Twins, especially in the Las Vegas area. Apparently Anthony Edwards has never heard the saying, "It takes years to build a good reputation, and minutes to destroy it." What we still aren't clear on is whether Eddie Edwards is equally guilty in all of this, as he rarely speaks up for himself. We choose to think that he too is a victim, while some others involved in this think this is a case of "good cop, bad cop. What we know for sure is that the twins really had no intention of coming back to Hennessey's in a few months, as they gave the Davids a one year "lease" on the performance space. And the saga continues. On a more positive note, currently, the cozy cabaret/theater space at Hennessey's, never more to be known as The Edwards Twins Showroom, houses Only You, a revival of the true dinner show. Derek Davids new revue invites you to take a trip down memory lane with some of the biggest hits ever produced in the '50s and '60s. Starring David, a former member of the legendary Platters, and a collection of some of the greatest singers in Las Vegas including members of the Coasters and Marvelettes. Only You will showcase some of the most popular music in American history and dazzle audiences with such songs as "Only You," "Twilight Time," "The Great Pretender" and "What Becomes of a Broken Heart." This show will also give the audience a rare opportunity, as a never-before heard Motown-inspired track, "Obviously," will be unveiled. Only You will be performed in the intimate, newly designed showroom inside Hennessey's. "This is a resurrection of soulful music from some of the best singers in Vegas and a tribute to the original dinner show," said David, a 40-year member of the Platters. "Only You will fuse Motown, '50s music, '60s music and personal memories together to form a collaboration of good feelings." Only You showcases some of the most distinctive singers in Las Vegas - David, Rheda K. Solo of the Marvelettes, Arnold Parker of the Platters, Terrence Forsythe, Donald Pinkney, and pianist Paul Badia. Choreography is designed by the legendary Papote Varet. Show room and costume design is provided by executive producer, Baroness Rita Bliss. A three-course dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m. (dark on Tuesdays). Tickets are on sale at the Hennessey's Tavern Box Office, by calling (702) 382-4421, online at http://www.Vegas.com, or through Prestige Ticketing at (702) 204-5686. * * * * * * * Tomorrow at 1 p.m., there will be a memorial for the late Paul Szigety. Szigety, the producer/stage manager at the downtown Union Plaza (now known as the Plaza) during the 1970s and '80s, passed away in Las Vegas on February 1st. The service, to be held at the Community Lutheran Church, 3720 E. Tropicana Ave., in Las Vegas, will be followed by a reception at another location (maps will be available at the service), where guests will remember and share stories from the past. * * * * * * * For those who have lived in or been visiting Las Vegas since the '70s, the name Billow Blues and/or Hudson & Saleeby might be familiar. Good news. Chris Hudson and Doug Saleeby, who left our city for Memphis in 1982 to go to work for game show host, Wink Martindale, in his new restaurant/club, will be performing, in a very rare and very limited Vegas engagement at The Palazzo's Salute Lounge. The dates and hours (we hope) are from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., May 13th, 14th and 15th and 20th, 21st and 22nd. From 1975 to 1982 and their move to Tennessee, Hudson & Saleeby, an outstanding piano-playing/singing duo with beautiful harmonies, performed all over Las Vegas, including at the Riviera, Marina (now the site of the MGM Grand), the Tropicana‘s Atrium Lunge (now called Celebration), the Barge at Caesars Palace, and the Summa/Hughes properties - Sands, Desert Inn, Landmark, and Frontier- where they shared stages with acts such as Glen Smith, Billy Kay, Kelly Stevens aka Karen Nelson (Bell), and Lee Greenwood (yes, THAT Lee Greenwood!). Occasionally, the duo expanded to a small band utilizing the talents of both Paul Terry and Marty Mahoney on drums (not at the same time), and the late Steamer Adams on guitar. The piano bar, located next door to the Jersey Boys Theatre, offers nightly live entertainment featuring high-energy bands performing a variety of musical styles. Dance the night away to the sounds of rock and roll, Motown, disco, today's top hits or request your own favorites. Amid the impressive retro environment is a full-service bar and comfortable seating to relax or mingle with hottest crowd on the Las Vegas Strip. Chris and Doug say they are very excited to be back after so many years away. Get out there during one or more of their dates, and give Hudson & Saleeby a great big Las Vegas welcome! You're welcome, fellows. 
Doug Taylor 
Kristi Holden & Elizabeth Hedman And speaking of longtime Vegas music men, Doug Taylor, is playing piano at Bar Moderno in the CityCenters' ARIA. You can catch him there, Wednesdays through Sundays, from 7 to midnight, through May 23rd. When he isn't performing in places like ARIA, Taylor is much sought after for convention dates. * * * * * * * Kristi Holden's Singing Outside the Lines concert last Sunday was a winner on all fronts - the 399-seat Clark County Flamingo Library Theater was just about full, the audience got a great show, and Family Promise of Las Vegas, helping homeless families in the Valley to achieve lasting independence by mobilizing the community to provide safe shelter, meals, and support services for those in need, got some exposure for the good that they do. Between the ticket sales ($20), additional donations, and drawings for some show-themed baskets, the afternoon proved to be a financial success. If you missed this show, watch for Kristi's next turn at bat. We have a feeling that she, like Jersey Boy's Rick Faugno who has appeared in his own shows at the South Point (and who made a guest appearance in Singing Outside the Lines) could develop her own, separate from Phantom, Vegas "side show." In August, Kristi Holden will perform in a Los Angeles benefit where she will be backed by an 18-piece orchestra. We will provide more details closer to August.
Accompanying photo by Kristina Pauman of Limelight Photography. And speaking of Phantom...On Wednesday night, the 75 cast and crew members chose to celebrate Cinco de Mayo (pronounced My-O), the Mexican holiday, in their own unique and creative way. They called their celebration Cinco de Pie-O. Although everyone was supposed to contribute a pie of some sort, a few "forgot" to bring anything, but hardly anyone forgot to sample the goodies - ranging from quiche and pizza pies, to the traditional fruit and crème varieties. * * * * * * * Bernadette Peters' May 1st appearance as part of UNLV's New York Stage & Beyond series, reminds us about one of our favorite Las Vegas pairings and shows. It was August of 1989, and the place was the Crystal Room at the Desert Inn (now buried under Wynn/Encore). The co-headliners were the winsome Ms. Peters and the Boy From Oz, the late Peter Allen. We were there and have the photos to prove it. Individually, the two entertainers were top-notch. Together they were incredible. Shown with Peters and Allen, in the accompanying picture, is entertainment writer (Hollywood Reporter, Vegas Visitor), Mark Tan. Tan died in April of 1997 at the age of 60. 
Mark Tan, Peter Allen & Bernadette Peters 
Lily Tomlin & Frank Marino * * * * * * * Frank Marino and the cast of Divas Las Vegas at the Imperial Palace were very excited when they learned that comic/actress Lily Tomlin was in their audience recently. Tomlin has been a fan of Frank's for some time and took the opportunity to go see him during a visit to our city. After a show business career of more than 40 years, Lily decided that she was ready for Las Vegas and Las Vegas was ready for her. The much nominated 70-year-old Tony/Grammy/ Emmy Award-winner performed here for the first time in November, when she appeared in the Hollywood Theater at the MGM Grand. Ms. Tomlin must have liked the experience, as she just completed her third Vegas engagement. * * * * * * * On Tuesday (May 4th), comedy-magician Mac King celebrated 10 years of laughter and magic with the Mac King Comedy Magic Show at Harrah's Las Vegas. To honor this momentous occasion, Mayor Oscar Goodman declared May 4th "Mac King Day" in Las Vegas. Rick Mazer, president of Harrah's Las Vegas, presented King with a unique and appropriate cake. "Growing up in a family of magicians, magic has been my life," said King. "I am truly honored to be celebrating 10 years with The Mac King Comedy Magic Show at Harrah's Las Vegas." In the last 10 years, King has performed an incredible 5,200 shows to more than one million audience members in the main showroom at Harrah's. That translates to 2,600 days of plaid suits worn, 15,600 feet of rope used for King's famous rope trick, 270,400 playing cards, 15,600 magically appearing fig newton cookies, and 26,000 audience volunteers! As for those mysterious goldfish? Those numbers remain a secret. If you weren't one of the million people who have seen this show in the past 10 years...what are you waiting for? Show times are at 1 and 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. Tickets start at a reasonable $27.45. Call (702) 369-5111 for reservations. 
Mac & Jennifer King 
Liberace * * * * * * * It's Liberace Birthday Celebration Week at the museum that bears Mr. Showmanship's name. For one week only, from this Sunday through next Sunday, admission to the Liberace Museum is only $3.50, with children under 12 admitted free when accompanied by an adult. (Admission was $3.50 on the museum's opening day, April 15th, 1979.) Special expanded museum hours for the week are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Some of the weeks events include, on Mother's Day:
Abigail Varghese in the Cabaret at 12;30 p.m., Danny Wright at the piano at 1 and 6 ($20 in advance and $25 at the door for show at 6), and the Liberace film, Leapin' Lizards at 4. Monday, it's Timothy Jones and the UNLV Percussion and Marimba at 12:15, and violinist Valeri Glava at 3. Tuesday, UNLV Jazz Quartet from 10 to noon, Philip Fortenberry at the piano from 1 to 2 p.m. ($15), Glava at 2:30, Anna Nateece in Costume Gallery signing photos from 3 to 5 p.m., Liberace Movie (The World of Liberace) at 6, and Christopher Joel Carter IV playing in showroom from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Fortenberry in Liberace and Me from 1 to 2 ($15), pianist Christopher Joel Carter IV in the Costume Gallery at 3, and Travis Cloer and Ann Barr doing Gershwin at 7 p.m. (tickets $20 in advance, $25 at door). Thursday, Valeri Glava joined by Liberace Scholar Christine Riegert 1 to 2 ($10), Anna Nateece in Costume Gallery signing photos from 3 to -5, and Anna Kijanowska UNLV Faculty, Classical Piano at 6. Friday, Andy Wright UNLV String Scholars at noon, Carter in Costume Gallery at 3, Carter and Varghese in Showroom at 6. Saturday, Sirius radio broadcast (John Nash), interviewing Liberace scholars, Christopher Joel Carter IV, Philip Fortenberry, and the museum's executive staff from 10 to noon, Philip Fortenberry Show at 1 ($15), Christopher Joel Carter IV with local students in Costume Gallery at 3, and Lady "J" Huston Concert 7:30 (tickets $20 in advance, $25 at door). And rounding out the week on Sunday, May 16th, cake served in the cafe from noon to 12:30, and the Finale Celebration - with Carter, Phyllis Bell, Dave Haertel, John Kaye, Danny Wright and a special appearance by onetime Liberace protegee, quadruple-threat Domenick Allen, his wife musical theater star Leigh Zimmerman (The Producers, Chicago, Contact), and daughter, 10-year-old entertainer Cayleigh Capaldi (tickets $35, price includes complimentary champagne and hors d'oeuvres). Madame Tussauds life-size wax figure of "The King of Bling" will be on display for photo ops. There will be museum tours throughout the week and 20% off on gift shop purchases. The Liberace Museum is located at 1775 E. Tropicana Ave. (at Spencer), in Las Vegas, NV 89119. For additional information, call (702) 798-5595. 
Domenick Allen, Leigh Zimmerman & Cayleigh Capaldi 
The Four Tops * * * * * * * We got some interesting feedback following last week's item on Frediani's and the unfair dispensing of money from the tip jar. Here are a couple of the comments we received from readers. "Your story about Maggi Albisani not being paid or not even getting the money from the tip jar at Frediani's was heartbreaking. How disgusting! Thanks for exposing them." While another said, "I just read your column. Are you serious? Is that really what happened? Maggi didn't get paid and she also got stiffed on the tips? Who divvied up cash in the jar? My jaw is hanging open in disbelief." We can tell readers that days after the "guilty party' was outed, he paid Ms. Albisani $40 and apologized. There is no question in our mind that if he had not gotten backed into a corner, Maggi would have received NO money and NO apology. When we said the handwriting was on the wall, and we anticipated the demise of Frediani's, little did we know that the big change would take place within days, not months. Frediani's, as we knew it, is history. The restaurant has been sold and will now be called Happenings. We wish the new owners well and urge them to get off on the right foot and stay there. A "house cleaning" (not of dust or cobwebs, but of people) is in order. We will have more on this new venture, with some familiar names at the helm, next week. * * * * * * * Our deepest sympathies go out to Frank Rinella and, the Las Vegas Review-Journal's restaurant critic, Heidi Knapp Rinella, on the loss of their 25-year-old daughter, Aynsley. Aynsley Jean Rinella died in a single-car accident on April 10th. A gathering at St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 204 S. Boulder Highway in Henderson, will begin at 7 this evening. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Drivers Edge, 7435 S. Eastern, Suite 5-165, Las Vegas 89123. * * * * * * * The Four Tops, whose meteoric rise to fame began with their 1964 Motown hit "Baby I Need Your Loving," bring their soulful songs to The Orleans Showroom this weekend. One of the few groups to have hits in three consecutive decades, The Four Tops' songs were splashed across the pop and R&B music charts from the 1960s through the 1980s. "I Can't Help Myself," a 1965 R&B and pop smash, is one of Motown's longest-running chart toppers. In the years that followed, The Four Tops continued to produce anthems that defined a generation, including such favorites as "It's The Same Old Song," "Reach Out I'll Be There," "Standing in the Shadows of Love" and "Bernadette." Their extraordinary run of classics continued with "Shake Me, Wake Me," "Ain't No Woman" and "When She Was My Girl," which went to No. 1 in 1981. Over the years, The Four Tops' fame grew as they teamed with Motown's top female group, The Supremes, post-Diana Ross. Billing themselves "The Magnificent Seven" for a series of albums, they hit with a cover of "River Deep - Mountain High." Later the group partnered with "Queen of Soul" and longtime friend Aretha Franklin to produce the Top 40 R&B hit "If Ever A Love There Was." Audiences also know the tunes of The Four Tops from their R&B hit "Are You Man Enough," from the movie Shaft in Africa, and the song "Back To School Again," heard in the film Grease 2. Their final solo Top 40 hit, "Indestructible," was heard around the globe as the theme of the 1988 Summer Olympics, held in Seoul, South Korea. In 1990, with 24 Top 40 pop hits to their credit, The Four Tops were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Pegged among the greatest artists of all time by Rolling Stone, The Four Tops have performed a nearly non-stop string of tour dates, dazzling adoring fans with their signature sound. Shows are tonight (Friday, May 7th), tomorrow and Sunday at 8 p.m. Tickets are from $39.95, plus tax and convenience fees, and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075, or visiting www.orleanscasino.com. Save on convenience fees by purchasing the tickets in person at Coast Casinos. Look for local sax (and other horns) man, Steve Golden (who also plays in Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show at the Sahara), in the orchestra.
* * * * * * * 
Ronnie Rose 
Steve March Torme 
Col. Wally Carson Ronnie Rose may be "Singing the Blues" (thank you, Guy Mitchell), but it's not because he can't find work. The blues and R&B singer is busy, busy, busy. On Mondays, May 17th and 31st, from 5 to 10 p.m., Rose entertains in the upscale Range Steakhouse at Harrah's. Enjoy the Strip views, fine dining and the music of Ronnie Rose. On Thursdays, May 13th, 20th and 27th, from 7 to 10 p.m., you can find Ronnie at Daddy Mac's, 2920 N. Green Valley Parkway (near Sunset). Call (702) 272-0913 for (suggested) reservations. May 5th, 7th, and 8th, Rose is at Mandalay Bay's House of Blues Restaurant at 9 p.m. On Sundays, the 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th, he is at the same place, with shows starting at 8 p.m. * * * * * * * Tonight at 8 (pre-show at 7), the City of Henderson presents the United States Coast Guard Band, under the direction of Commander Kenneth W. Megan, in a special performance that includes star soloists, the celebrated Masters of Swing and majestic literature for wind ensemble. The concert, held at the Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water Street, will feature an entertaining arrangement of songs from the long-running Broadway favorite, "The Fantasticks," trumpet soloists in "Under Gypsy Skies," a collection of songs from Oscar-winning film scores, as well as works by John Philip Sousa, Jules Massenet and Samuel Barber. The U.S. Coast Guard Band is the premier ensemble of the United States Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security. In addition to annual regional tours in the United States, the Band has performed in the former Soviet Union, Canada, England, and in 2008 became the first premier American military band to tour Japan. When not traveling, the Band is based at the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. * * * * * * * In a loving tribute to his father Mel Torme, the multi-talented musician, Steve March Torme, brings Totally Torme to the Suncoast Showroom for two performances, at 7:30 p.m. on May 8th and 9th. Backed by a jazz quartet, young Tormé brings the music and legend of his father to the forefront, performing songs long associated with Mel's celebrated career in the music and entertainment industry. Never-before-seen photography and video of the father and son are featured in the tribute, completing the "Totally Torme experience. Having a famous father isn't all that Steve March Torme is known for. An entertainer and recording artist in his own right, Torme's voice has been described as "seductive" and "effortless" with "a natural ability to connect with audiences." He began his recording career in the late '70s with his first LP, Lucky, followed by producing and singing on Liza Minnelli's release Tropical Nights. On a recommendation by mega-producer Quincy Jones, Torme was tapped to be one of three featured singers for the vocal group Full Swing, which released their own album and toured internationally. Following the tour, Torme left the group to pursue a solo career, releasing several recordings including, Swingin' at the Blue Moon Bar & Grille, The Night I Fell For You, The Essence of Love, So Far and Straighten Up and Fly Right, which highlights a live duet between Steve and his father, showcasing an improvised "scat" lesson between student and teacher. His latest CD, inside/out, is a set of 12 original tunes penned by Torme, where he is not only the singer, but also keyboardist and guitarist. A well-rounded entertainer, Tormé also acted in a mini-series for RAI (Italian) television, as well as a number of variety and music programs, including a three-year stint as a featured singer on $100,000 Name That Tune. He also hosted two Los Angeles-based television programs, Video 22 and Box Office America. Tormé currently hosts his own radio show, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons on the Music of Your Life network (www.musicofyourlife.com). Tickets for his Suncoast shows are available, starting from $19.95, plus tax and convenience fees, and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075 or visiting www.orleanscasino.com. Save on convenience fees by purchasing the tickets in person at any Coast Casino. * * * * * * * Who says you can't go home again? It certainly wasn't Nelson Sardelli. Mr. Sardelli, of F.I.O.R.E. (Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events, although you don't have to be Italian or too ridiculous to join in the fun) fame, wants it known that, after four months of arduous negotiations, two tons of pasta and 300 gallons of cappuccino espresso, the non club club, described by many (okay, one) as "the world's classiest and most exclusive club ever" (you got a problem with that?), the non existent board of non directors of the non club club F.I.O.R.E., and the no nonsense directors of the Italian American Club, have reached an agreement which they believe is a good deal for all the parties concerned. Henceforth, the meetings and events of the non club club F.I.O.R.E. will, once again, be held at the Italian American Club, 2333 E. Sahara. The next gathering (men only, please) will be this Thursday, May 13th, at 11:30 a.m. Guest speaker will be Colonel Wally Carson (retired). This American hero will share interesting and historical stories that start here in Las Vegas in 1926 and go through World War II, Korea and Vietnam. A question and answer period will follow. Gentlemen, mark your calendars. Check out http://www.nonclubclubfiore.com/index.htm. And speaking of Nelson Sardelli, another of his family members, daughter Giovanna Sardelli, is in the news again. Although she calls New York home, the young lady is directing the West Coast premiere of Matthew Lopez's The Whipping Man, at the Old Globe Theater in San Diego, tomorrow through June 13th. Set in Virginia following the final days of the Civil War, a Jewish Confederate soldier returns to his childhood home, only to find it in ruins and occupied by his former slaves who are preparing for a Seder. Immediately after San Diego, Giovanna returns to New York City to direct a major off-Broadway play. More details on that will soon be on the way. 
Giovanna Sardelli & Matthew Lopez 
Gene Wilder * * * * * * * We especially like the new AT&T commercial, featuring Gene Wilder singing the Anthony Newley/Leslie Bricusse song, "Pure Imagination," from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Just as it is supposed to do, this 30 seconds (or even better, expanded to 60 seconds) will take you back to your childhood in a clever, creative and entertaining way. http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/watch?v=CEcvi9hzWXs&feature=topvideos * * * * * * * Let it be known throughout the land...Any press releases not received by Wednesday afternoon will either be used the following week or not at all. NO EXCEPTIONS! Signed (most respectfully), Claire Voyant
Tags: Happy Mother's Day Kristen Hertzenberg Satterwhite & Shea Ali Spuck & Kri
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - April 30/May 1, 2010 Cousin Claire got hung up yesterday, due to a hangnail.  Michael Buble  Sierra Boggess  Vita Corimbi Michael Buble fans should be delighted to learn that the young crooner will be making a rare Las Vegas appearance on August 28th, when he brings his Crazy Love Tour to the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Presented by Nordstrom, the multi-Grammy Award-winning artist will perform hits such as "Haven't Met You Yet" and "Crazy Love" on this tour. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 8. Tickets are $95, $75 and $55. Prices include 5% Live Entertainment Tax (plus a $7 handling fee). Call (877) 880-0880 for reservations. * * * * * * * The star of Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest production, Love Never Dies, has some Vegas history. Sierra Boggess, is currently starring as Christine Daae in Love Never Dies, the sequel to Sir Andrew's The Phantom of the Opera, which officially opened at London's West End Adelphi Theatre on March 9th. Sierra, who was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, graduated from Illinois' Millikin University with a BFA in musical theater. Now 27, the young lady began her career as an understudy for Cosette on the U.S. national tour of Les Miserables. She also originated the roles of Binky and Ram Dass in the musical Princesses. Other work includes West Side Story (Maria), The Pirates of Penzance (Mabel), Sweet Charity (Charity Hope Valentine) and The Boy Friend (Polly). Sierra's big break came in June of 2006, when she got the role of Christine Daae in Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular at The Venetian. In 2007, she originated the role of Ariel in the Broadway adaptation of the 1989 film, The Little Mermaid, for which she received critical acclaim. Boggess ended her role as Ariel on May 31st, 2009. Her understudy, Chelsea Morgan Stock, then took over the part. In 2009, Sierra also starred in the Encores! production of Music in the Air, which ran from February 5th through 8th, at the New York City Center. * * * * * * * We missed Master Magician Lance Burton's appearance on Craig Ferguson's The Late, Late Show last night (Thursday, April 29th), as we were at the Liberace Museum, in the audience at the Composers Showcase (one of our very favorite, very special Las Vegas things-to-do). Thursday's showcase was sensational, with too many high points to mention, although we will try to identify some. Keith Thompson, who along with Michael Brennan, is the founder and guiding force behind the Composers Showcase, opened with one of his originals, "Take Me Back." He was accompanied by a number of musicians and backup singers. Vita Corimbi, always a treat for the mostly show folk audience, accompanied herself on piano doing a number called "I'm Going On a Game Show." Surprise. Surprise. She really IS going to be on a game show! We will let readers know when they can see Vita on Don't Forget the Lyrics, hosted by Sugar Ray's lead singer, Mark McGrath. We really hope she doesn't forget the lyrics. Jersey Boys' Kristofer McNeeley sang a lovely original, "Baby Mine," to his very pregnant wife, singer Ali Spuck. The Lion King's Monique Midgette sang Richard Oberacker's "You Love You" ("It don't matter who you love, as long as you love you"). Pianist Danny Wright played two beautiful original compositions, "Quietly As I Sleep" and "My Miracle." With Philip Fortenberry at the piano, soprano Joan Sobel sang Keith Thompson's inspiring, "Keep Hope Alive," and Kissy Simmons of The Lion King, backed by nine singers, gave a rousing hand-clapping, foot-stomping version of Thompson's gospel number, "I Will Walk with Jesus." It was enough to make a non-believer believe! The May edition of the Composers Showcase will launch the fifth year of one of Las Vegas' best kept secrets...the other being, "Who said ‘yes' to the idea of the profit making (although not for the city or county) Las Vegas Walk of Stars."  Kissy Simmons  Danny Wright  Lady "J" Huston A showcase newcomer is Danny Wright. Wright, who moved to Las Vegas from Fort Worth, Texas, in December, was only four when he reached up and played the theme from Dr. Zhivago on the piano in the family's living room. Recognizing an exceptional gift, his parents arranged for him to study under the respected professor, Dr. Harris Cavender. Since that time, Danny's life has consisted of his love of music, the piano and his desire to share his gift with others. His warm, outgoing personality, combined with extraordinary talent, has enabled him to touch millions of listeners through his recordings and concerts. Trained as a classical pianist, Wright composes and performs original compositions that are blended with various influences including contemporary jazz, classical and neoclassical. CD Review describes his original compositions as "...fluidly crafted, backed up by exquisite musicianship." Wright also performs his own arrangements of Christian, Broadway and film classics by well-loved composers. When not in the studio recording, Danny performs in concert, both solo and as a guest artist with pops symphonies, and has appeared in concert at top venues from the Berklee Performance Center in Boston, to the Schoenberg Hall in Los Angeles. Many of his titles charted in Billboard Magazine with Danny Wright Healer of Hearts achieving Top 10 status and reaching No. 2 and staying on the chart for months. In 2006, Danny released An Intimate Christmas with Atlantic Records. With 31 recordings and millions of albums sold, it is fair to assume that Danny Wright's music is playing somewhere around the world at any given time. Wright has sold more than five million CDs since his debut album in 1986. He has twice been named by Billboard as a Top 10 artist in his genre. Danny was brought to Las Vegas by the new Aria Hotel in City Center, where he has performed. He has also played in the Petrossian Lounge at Bellagio. Danny will perform at the Liberace Museum, today, May 1st at 1 p.m., and again on Mother's Day Sunday, the 9th, at 6 p.m. On May 16th, at 4 p.m., Wright will perform at Grace in the Desert Episcopal Church, 2004 Spring Gate Lane in Summerlin. We suggest checking out this fine musician. And speaking of the Liberace Museum, on Saturday, May 15th at 7:30 p.m., singer, songwriter, trumpeter, Lady "J" Huston, will perform there in the intimate cabaret. Originally from St. Louis, and now a Las Vegan, Lady "J" has toured with Blues Hall of Fame Inductee, Albert "Blues Boy "King, and has shared the stage with Bobby Blue Bland, Etta James, B.B. King, Bill Pinkney's Original Drifters and other International acts. Lady "J" has received many accolades, including that as 2009's Best Blues Performer Winner by the Black Music Association (BMA) of Las Vegas. She was part of Season 3's America's Got Talent All Stars which aired on NBC, attracting 25 million viewers in the U.S. and around the world. Lady "J" is referenced in the Marquis Who's Who of American Women, Who's Who in America, Who's Who in the World, and Who's Who in Finance & Business. In addition to her May 15th date at the Liberace Museum, Lady "J" can also be seen in Las Vegas at the Clark County Amphitheater, Saturday, May 1st at noon, and at the Blues Festival at Lake Las Vegas, on the same day at 6 p.m. * * * * * * * Arshiel Calatrava is a 15-year-old, straight "A" freshman from Farrington High School in Honolulu, Hi. Today, that would be impressive enough, but this young lady might be the new, young voice of the Islands. Arshiel began singing at the age of four, later taking professional lessons to hone her craft. She enjoys playing her favorite instruments, particularly the guitar and piano. She had the honor of performing with the legendary Don Ho, when the late entertainer gave Arshiel the opportunity to sing twice a week at the Beachcomber Hotel in Waikiki. In November 2008, a video of Arshiel was picked for a cameo spot on Oprah Winfrey's "Most Talented Kids." At the celebration of the 50th Statehood in August 2009, this Filipina sensation blew the audience away with her powerful rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" which was featured on KHNL news NBC. Handpicked by Hawaii's Governor Linda Lingle's office, Arshiel was invited to be the only performer at the International Women's Leadership Conference that ended the ceremony with a standing ovation. Recently she was featured on a new local television show, Entertain Me, on FOX TV network. She is currently working on her debut album. Visitors and locals alike will have the opportunity to see and hear this amazing young talent, when Rosy Cheeks Entertainment proudly presents Arshiel as a special guest with veteran entertainers, Society of Seven, over Mother's Day weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 7th through 9th. Shows are in the Gold Coast Casino showroom at 7 p.m. For these three nights, Arshiel joins SOS's seven talented male performers, filling in for American Idol star, Jasmine Trias, who is taking some time off. The family-friendly, high-energy variety show features comedy sketches, celebrity impersonations, dance and live musical numbers, including everything from popular standards and Broadway hits to Top 40 favorites. Tickets start at $34.95 plus tax and fees. For reservations, call the Gold Coast box office at (702) 251-3574.  Arshiel Calatrava  Dick Contino  Jimmy Hopper * * * * * * * We have to wonder who, for the past number of years anyway, is minding the store or, more specifically, who puts together the print ads for the local San Gennaro Feast. Cousin Claire finds it most interesting that some Italians apparently can't take care of their own. As an example...Accordion virtuosos, Dick Contino, who regularly lends his talent to the annual event, has had his name misspelled in those ads for years. At 80, Contino, often called "The World's Greatest Accordionist," continues to perform at San Gennaro and other Italian festivals around the country. He also appears frequently at the Avi Resort & Casino in Laughlin; is a frequent guest (along with the likes of Pete Barbutti, Julius LaRosa and Deana Martin) in Frankie Randall's That's Italian, the music and comedy revue that has played all around the country, including at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, Trump's Marina Hotel in Atlantic City, the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Chicago, the Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale, the Cerritos Performing Arts Center in Southern California, and the Foxwood Resort in Connecticut; and performs at places such as the yearly Cotati Accordion Festival. The 2010 festival, the 20th annual, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, August 21st and 22nd. The popular event, held outdoors, under the oak trees of the central Cotati plaza, attracts between two and three-thousand visitors a day. When she was but a girl, Cousin Claire remembers attending the taping (or whatever they did in the early ‘50s) of a radio show out of Hollywood, on which Mr. Contino was a guest. We were very impressed with his rendition of "Lady of Spain." Contino, who first entertained Las Vegas audiences at the old El Rancho in 1950, has called this city his home since 1973. We think he has more than earned the right to have his name spelled correctly. * * * * * * * Brittany Markarian, former Public Relations Manager at the Tropicana, is now Public Relations & Social Media Specialist at the Three Square Food Bank. If you are a regular reader of this column (and isn't everybody?), you probably already know that Pietra Sardelli, daughter of Nelson Sardelli, is also affiliated with Three Square. Ms. Sardelli is Three Square's On Site Events Manager. * * * * * * * We took a couple of guesses, in last weeks column, as to where Cirque du Soleil's next Las Vegas production, based on the life and career of Michael Jackson, might turn up in 2012. We named the Luxor, current home of Criss Angel's Believe, and the Monte Carlo, where magician Lance Burton will perform until early September. We would now like to add a third possibility to the mix. We are hearing stories that the Jackson-themed show, could very well find a home at Mandalay Bay, where Disney's landmark musical, The Lion King, now resides...unless the powers that be, whoever they are, decide to keep the King around longer than originally planned. Frankly, we hope that happens. * * * * * * * Former Las Vegas resident, entertainer Jimmy Hopper, headlines Street Life, the Hansen House Benefit at the Concert Venue at Harrah's Resort in Atlantic City, on Thursday, May 6th, beginning at 7;30 p.m. Hopper also performed at the 2006 and 2007 Street Life concerts. All proceeds from the concert will benefit Hansen House, two, 24-bed residential treatment halfway houses (one for men and one for women) located at 411 Aloe Street in Galloway Township, NJ. A private charitable 501(C)3 non-profit corporation, Hansen House treats the diseases of alcoholism and drug addiction, providing clients with the tools and skills needed to live productive and responsible lives. Street Life is produced by Melanie Rice and Bob Fowler, with well-known Philadelphia entertainer, Eddie Bruce, serving as Master of Ceremonies. In addition to Hopper, other featured Street Life performers include Dane Anthony, Howard Issacson, Patti Balbo, Cibon Jackson, Mia Bergmann, Paul Jost, Patty Blee, Geri Mingori, Eddie Bruce, Kristina Pruitt, Bugzy, Melanie Rice, Bob Fowle, Cathy Rocco (whose sister Connie lives in Las Vegas and is married to sportscaster, Al Bernstein), Kathy Fowler, Gina Roche, Alex Glover, Erika Schiff, Jennifer Hansen, Suze Schneider, Bob Sterling and Bobby Hunter. The inaugural concert in 2005, and the accompanying CDs, were the brainchild of Northfield's Nina Soifer. Tickets for the concert are $25 per person, and $150 for VIP seating which includes a dessert reception with the musicians after the show. Tickets may be purchased online at www.hansenhouse.org. For more information, call (609) 402-7684. The next night, Friday, May 7th, Jimmy Hopper will perform in a dinner show in the House of Blues Music Hall at Harrah's Showboat in Atlantic City. Enjoy an evening of great food and entertainment. Showboat's culinary staff is sure to delight while Hopper, a favorite Las Vegas performer, takes the stage with his trademark Rock meets Opera, Classical meets Broadway show. Space is limited for this one-night only event. Price is $75 per person, with doors opening at 6:45 p.m. and show starting at 7. For additional information, call (609) 236-BLUE (2583). * * * * * * *  Dionne Warwick  Tommy Thompson & Jeannie Snow  Charly Raymond Connie Francis and Dionne Warwick, along with producer Eric Floyd, are in New York, today through Friday, where they will make the rounds of radio and television talk shows to promote their upcoming engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton. In a musical first, Warwick and Francis will perform together when they take to the Hilton stage, May 21st through 23rd, in Floyd's Divas of Stage. On Thursday, the threesome will appear on The Joy Behar Show (9 p.m. ET on CNN's sister network, HLN). Joy Behar, for those who live in a cave on a very remote island, is also one of the hosts on ABC's all-girl daytime gabfest, The View. And speaking of the Divas of Stage, Warwick and Francis will be accompanied by a real live 25-piece orchestra that includes four saxophones, two trombones, three trumpets, guitar, bass, percussion, two keyboards, violin, viola, drums and even a harp. In addition to the ladies' own traveling rhythm sections, some of the local players are, on trumpets, Lance Aguirre, Martin King and Andy Ray; Joey Farina on trombone; Steve Johnson on tenor saxophone; Elaine Thomas, violin; Ed Paliotta, guitar; and Chris Farina playing bass. We will have the names of the Divas' traveling musicians next week. * * * * * * * Last Sunday, we were busy both day and night. In the afternoon, we made our very first visit to the Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant on Paradise Road. We were there to support statesman, Lou Toomin, who is running for Senate District 15. Lou does not call himself a politician as, "A politician and statesman differ in their connotations; politician is more often derogatory, and statesman laudatory. Politician suggests the schemes and devices of a person who engages in (esp. small) politics for party ends or for one's own advantage (as a dishonest politician), while Statesman suggests the eminent ability, foresight, and unselfish patriotic devotion of a person dealing with (esp. important or great) affairs of state (as a distinguished statesman)." It seems that Statesman Toomin has lots of friends, as the joint was jumping! There was plenty of music, led by saxophone/horn player, Tommy Thompson, with Jeannie Snow (whose first name we misspelled last week) on vocals. Band mates included Gary Olds on drums. Lots of the pros in attendance got up to do a number or two, among them Terrence Forsythe (a member of Only You, opening at Hennessey's in downtown Las Vegas tonight), Ronnie Rose, Janicey "Lady Day" Brar, and trumpet player Charly Raymond among them. And speaking of Janicey Brar, she will perform at the Catalina Bar & Grill, 6725 W. Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood, with the United Jazz Quintet, this Wednesday, May 5th. If you love Billie Holiday, then you'll love "Lady Day" Brar impersonating one of the world's most legendary jazz artists. Janicey has won numerous awards for her tribute to Holiday, including a BMA nomination for Best Jazz Impersonation. Hear Janicey bring back the sound and aura of Billie Holiday, and hear her sing her self-penned, "Never Felt Love." Tickets are $15, plus dinner or a two drinks minimum required. Doors open for dinner 90 minutes before the first show and 30 minutes before the second show. All ticket sales are final. For more information, including show times, as well as ticket sales, call the Catalina Bar & Grill at (323) 466-2210.  Janicey "Lady Day" Brar  Maggi Albisani  Carrie Underwood On Sunday evening, we were at Frediani's in Henderson to see and hear singer Maggi Albisani. Maggi, and the musicians backing her - Joe Darro, Jimmy Racey, Robbie Robinson, and Norm Ross - did a fine job, as did some special guest singers, including handsome young San Diegan Jonathan Karrant; Joe LaVigna, "The Singing Chef;" and Victor Moea, but we have some serious issues with the disorganized operation of this establishment. Although any and all of Frediani's promo says to call for reservations, you can call and call until the cows come home (you know how long that can take), and NEVER get a real human on the phone. What you get, instead, is an answering machine. It seems pointless to leave a number in the hopes of getting a return call, as, although we left more than one pleading message, we never heard back from anybody. Therefore, we had no idea that the place would be pretty much filled up by guests who were attending a surprise birthday party for one of the restaurant‘s owners. We have no problem with that, except for the fact, the few open places, for uninvited birthday guests, were in sections where you could hear, but not see, what was happening on stage. Our group of six begrudgingly chose to stay anyway, in the hopes that when some of the party guests departed, we could move to a place where we could see as well as hear what was going on. That's what happened...more than an hour after the show started. There were about two dozen folks who came to Frediani's specifically to see Maggi, billed as "The sultry Italian singer from the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn." Among those people were producer Eric Floyd, his beautiful singer/actress wife, Wanda Dee, and their assistant, Amoura. During the performance, courtesy of the Floyds, Amoura dropped almost $200 in the tip jar in front of the piano. After the entertainment had ended, and the band members had left the building, Cousin Claire made a comment to Maggi about her generous fans making such a large contribution to her evenings' take, only to learn that the featured performer that night, Miss Albisani, had received NONE of the money that was deposited in the jar, primarily for her. We were also even MORE surprised to find out that Albisani was unable to collect her small salary for the work she did that evening. To tell a performer, AFTER, they have done their job, that they will have to wait a few days for their money, is inexcusable and unforgivable. Not that it even matters WHAT kind of a job she did, but we might mention that this lady doesn't just get up on stage and sing easy little ballads. She, to quote Donna Summer, "Works Hard for the Money!" In our eyes, unless there are some drastic changes and immediate improvements made, the handwriting is on the wall for Frediani's. We predict, as we did for both the now closed Caylix Jazz Supper Club and DeStefano's, Frediani's will cease operation within a few months. * * * * * * * If you wanted to see Carrie Underwood at The Orleans Arena on May 22nd, and you don't already have your tickets for the concert, you won't be seeing her in Las Vegas this time around. American Idol's fourth season winner, Underwood, has completely sold out the 7,500-seat arena. Since her Idol win in 2005, the 27-year-old has become a multi-platinum selling recording artist, a multiple Grammy Award-winner, was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, is a three-time Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association Female Vocalist winner, and the current ACM Entertainer of the year. She is the first ever female artist to win back-to-back Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards for Entertainer of the year (2009/2010). Proves the theory, when you snooze, you lose. * * * * * * * Reminder...
This Sunday at 2 p.m., it's Kristi Holden, Singing Outside the Lines as she performs in her own show at the Clark County Flamingo Library Theater, 1401 E. Flamingo, just east of Maryland Parkway). Kristi will be accompanied by Philip Fortenberry on piano (Philip, associate musical director for Jersey Boys, is also the musical director for Kristi's show); Don Meoli, also from Jersey Boys, on drums; Jersey Boys' Kevin Stout on guitar; Tyler Williams, from Wynn's Le Reve, on bass and upright bass; and Elizabeth Hedman, in from Los Angeles, on violin. She will be joined by some of her talented friends and fellow Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular cast mates, including Don Bellamy, Bruce Ewing, Ben Hale, Kristen Hertzenberg, Luke Lazzaro, Nicole Pryor, Andrew Ragone, Joan Sobel, and Danielle White, as well as Rick Faugno from Jersey Boys. Renown tap dancer and teacher, Tony Coppola, will be a special guest in Kristi‘s show. A $20 donation is requested, with proceeds going to benefit Family Promise of Las Vegas. For tickets or additional information, call (702) 245-0992, or visit www.FamilyPromiseLVTickets.com.  Kristi Holden  Cork Proctor * * * * * * * Got a call from Cork Proctor last Saturday night. He was between shows at Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop Café & Cabaret at the Tropicana in Atlantic City. The veteran comic has been sharing the bill with fellow funnymen, Kevin Downey Jr. and Brian McFadden, since Monday the 19th. They closed on Sunday to make room for Michael Yungcho, Alicia Cooper and Jim Carroll, in through May 2nd. Cork describes the Comedy Stop room in Atlantic City as the nicest club he has ever worked...and in his decades long career as an entertainer, he has played in plenty of them. * * * * * * * Another Reminder...
The historic downtown California Hotel and Casino will celebrate May Day with their 13th Annual Lei Day Polynesian Festival, today, May 1st, and tomorrow, Sunday, May 2nd, beginning at 9 a.m. both days. The annual Polynesian festival brings together musicians, dancers, artists, craftsmen and food and beverage vendors to showcase the very best of Hawaii. Entry to the two- day event is FREE. Throughout the festivities, a continual flow of Hawaiian and Polynesian musicians and dancers will entertain attendees. Special demonstrations and activities are also planned to highlight Hawaiian culture. Traditional Hawaiian dishes and delicacies will also be available for purchase including kalua pig, lau lau, poi, beef teriyaki sticks and hot malasadas. A special concert will be held this evening at 7:15 p.m., featuring Hawaiian recording artists Darren Benitez and Eric Lee, along with singer, television personality, and American Idol Season 2 Top 36 Finalist, Jordan Segundo. This concert is a paid event and tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Advanced tickets may be purchased at the California Hotel BConnected Players Club or by calling (702) 388-2705. On Sunday, the annual "Island Fever Block Party," will be held on the festival grounds featuring local bands and non-stop entertainment. This is a free event. Parking is available adjacent to the California Hotel and Casino (at Stewart and Main Street.) 
California Hotel May-Lei Day 
"Little" Jimmy Scott * * * * * * * One week from today, on Saturday, May 8th, Jazz in the Park, sponsored by Clark County Parks & Recreation, will present vocalist "Little" Jimmy Scott at the Clark County Government Center, 500 S. Grand Central Parkway in downtown Las Vegas. Scott has Kallmann's syndrome, a genetic condition that prevented him from reaching puberty, leaving him with a high, undeveloped voice in the contralto range, hence his nickname "Little" Jimmy Scott. He first rose to national prominence in the Lionel Hampton Band when he sang lead on the late 1940s hit "Everybody's Somebody's Fool," recorded in December 1949, and which became a top ten R&B hit in 1950. Credit on the label, however, went to a 'male vocalist', a slight to his talent and a blow to his career. A similar professional insult occurred several years later, when his vocal on "Embraceable You" with Charlie Parker, on the album One Night in Birdland, was credited to female vocalist Chubby Newsome. It was Scott's extraordinary phrasing and romantic feeling that made him a favorite singer of fellow artists like Billie Holiday, Ray Charles, Dinah Washington and Nancy Wilson. Show starts at 8 p.m. And here is a bonus. There is no charge to see Jimmy Scott.
Tags: Michael Buble Sierra Boggess Vita Corimbi Kissy Simmons Danny Wright La
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - April 23, 2010 
Kristi Holden 
Connie Francis & Dionne Warwick 
Frankie Laine the Legend On Sunday, May 2nd, talented Kristi Holden spreads her wings to show the other side of Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular's Christine Daae, the role she plays (alternating with Kristen Hertzenberg) in The Palazzo production. Kristi will be Singing Outside the Lines, when she performs at the Clark County Flamingo Library Theater, 1401 E. Flamingo, just east of Maryland Parkway), in a 2 p.m. concert. Kristi will be accompanied by Philip Fortenberry on piano (Philip, associate musical director for Jersey Boys, is also directing Kristi's show); Don Meoli, also from Jersey Boys, on drums; Jersey Boys' Kevin Stout on guitar; Tyler Williams, from Wynn's Le Reve, on bass and upright bass; and Elizabeth Hedman, in from Los Angeles, on violin. Ms. Holden will be joined by some of her equally talented friends - from Phantom, Don Bellamy, Bruce Ewing, Ben Hale, Hertzenberg, Luke Lazzaro, Nicole Pryor, Andrew Ragone, Joan Sobel, and Danielle White - as she sings some classical pieces (including "Pie Jesu" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Requiem), along with selections from the songbooks of Alison Krauss, Annie Lennox and John Denver, as well as songs from Broadway and the movies (West Side Story, Oliver, Jekyll and Hyde and All Shook Up). Kristi will also be tap dancing with Rick Faugno, who stars as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys. Renown tap dancer and teacher (including as a dance instructor at UNLV), Tony Coppola, will be a special guest. A $20 donation is requested, with proceeds going to benefit Family Promise of Las Vegas. For tickets or additional information, call (702) 245-0992, or visit www.FamilyPromiseLVTickets.com. * * * * * * * Musical history will take place in the Las Vegas Hilton showroom, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 21st through 23rd, when two of the most recognizable voices and successful female recording artists of all time, Connie Francis and Dionne Warwick, perform together for the first time ever. Being billed as Eric Floyd's Grand Divas of Stage, the concert is being presented by Las Vegas-based Goddess Empire Entertainment. Since the 1950s, these legendary ladies of song have sold millions of records worldwide. Best known for her partnership with Burt Bacharach and Hal David ("Anyone Who Had a Heart," "Walk On By," "Do You Know the Way to San Jose," "Don't Make Me Over," "Promises, Promises," "I Say a Little Prayer," "Windows of the World," "Alfie," "I'll Never Fall In Love Again," and "That's What Friends Are For," to name some), the multiple, multiple award-winning Warwick ranks as the 20th most popular hit-maker of the entire rock era (1955-1999), based on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop Singles Charts, and the second most successful female performer of the past 50 years in terms of Hot 100 hits (behind Aretha Franklin). Pop singer, Francis, is best known for international hit songs including "Who's Sorry Now?," "Where the Boys are," "Lipstick On Your Collar," and "Stupid Cupid." She topped the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart on three occasions, with "Everybody's Somebody's Fool," "My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own," and "Don't Break the Heart That Loves You." Connie was the top-charting female artist of the 1950s and 1960s. Although tickets didn't go on sale until Tuesday, word on this concert has spread quickly, with the Hilton getting calls for reservations from around the world. Tickets, priced at $59, $79, $99, and VIP Meet and Greets at $125 (plus taxes and fees) can now be purchased at the Hilton box office, by calling (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361, or going to the www.LVHilton.com site. Speaking of the Hilton...Next Friday, April 30th, it's Little Anthony and The Imperials, and the following night, Saturday, May 1st, it's that "Downtown" girl, Petula Clark. For reservations, call (702) 732-5755, or (800) 222-5361. * * * * * * * Last month, on what would have been his 97th birthday, singer, actor, songwriter, entertainer, Frankie Laine, was honored with the first Legends award presented by San Diego's Italian American community. A beautiful granite plaque was unveiled in the Southern California city's Little Italy section. Laine became a fixture of Little Italy's restaurant scene when he moved to Point Loma in the 1960s. Born Francesco Paolo LoVecchio in Chicago, on March 30th, 1913, Frankie a career that spanned 75 years. The Little Italy Legends program was developed by Frankie Laine's producer/manager, James Marino, who worked for a year to bring the idea to fruition. It was Marino who first approached the Little Italy Association about honoring Laine, and the association expanded his idea into the full-fledged Little Italy Legends program.
From his first concerts in 1930 with a marathon dance company, to his final performance of "That's My Desire" in 2005, Frankie Laine sang an eclectic variety of song styles and genres, stretching from big band crooning to pop, western-themed songs, gospel, rock, folk, jazz and blues. Often billed as "America's Number One Song Stylist," his other nicknames include "Mr. Rhythm," "Old Leather Lungs, and Mr. Steel Tonsils. His hits included "That's My Desire," "That Lucky Old Sun," "Mule Train," "Cry of the Wild Goose," "Jezebel," "High Noon," "I Believe," "Hey Joe!," "The Kid's Last Fight," "Cool Water," "Moonlight Gambler," "Love is a Golden Ring," "Rawhide" and "Lord, You Gave Me a Mountain." Marino is captain of Team Frankie Laine, a group of the singer's supporters that formed after Laine's death on February 6th, 2007, to keep Laine's music and image alive. "It is important for [the Little Italy Association] to raise awareness about Italian Americans and mainstream their names," said Chris Gomez, the association's district manager. "We want to help people understand that Italians are not all the ‘Sopranos;' they are not the ‘Godfather.' They are about family, culture, arts and history." The celebration was a huge success! They had 300 chairs in the street in front of Benny Hollman's (Laine's former Musical Director) band, with additional chairs on the sidewalk and street in front of the plaque. They were filled with happy people. There were flags everywhere and Frank's familiar hits, played by Hollman's big band, and sung by lots of guest singers, filled Little Italy. Jimmy Marino emceed the whole event. Father Joe spoke about Frankie and blessed the plaque, which was unveiled at the corner of Date and India Streets by Frankie's widow, Marcia, and Marino. Over the years, other deserving Italians will be recognized and honored by the Little Italy Association in San Diego, but it will be forever more be known that it was Frankie Laine who became the city's first Legend honoree. * * * * * * * 
Kristofer McNeeley 
Fred Watstein 
Sandra Huntsman The second Composers Showcase of the month (due to key players being unavailable, the March edition took place on April 1st, no fooling) will be held on Thursday, beginning at 10:30 p.m., after theater. As has been the case for three years, the best kept secret in Las Vegas (shhh), will take place in the Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum, 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer. Local songwriters who will perform their own material, or have other pros do it for them, include Michael Brennan, Vita Corimbi, Amos Glick, Wayne Green, Rylan Leo Helmuth, Kristofer McNeeley, Richard Oberacker, Matt Taylor and Keith Thompson. Among the vocalists who will grace the audience with their talents are David Demato, Tish Diaz, Kristen Hertzenberg, Monique Midgette, Kissy Simmons, Joan Sobel, Lauren Tartaglia, Colin Trahan and Nikka Wahl. Instrumentalists include Brian Czach, Philip Fortenberry, James Harvey, Melanie Schiemer, Kevin Stout, Joe Thomasula, Fred Watstein and Drew Zingg. Richard Camuso and Mary McFadden handle the sound. There is a $5 cover charge at the door (free with Student ID), with all proceeds going to the Liberace Foundation; a cash bar (no credit cards, please), and a $5 Showcase Special, sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets! at the Café. The mission of the Liberace Foundation is to help talented students pursue careers in the performing and creative arts through scholarship assistance. And, while still at the Liberace Museum, on Sunday (April 25th), the Cabaret Showroom welcomes back RagTag Entertainment, with their new show, The Golden Age of Broadway. Sunday's program will include popular Broadway standards of the 1940s, '50s, and early '60s, including " The Simple Joys of Maidenhood" from Camelot; "Maria" from West Side Story; "Don't Rain on My Parade" from Hello, Dolly!; "Many a New Day" from Oklahoma!; "I Could Have Danced All Night" from My Fair Lady. The performers are Charles Béraud, Kari Wydner Curletto, Sandra Huntsman, Steve Huntsman, Jacqueline J Melendez, Joel Rene, Stephanie Thorpe and Michael Vojvodich. Angela Chan will serve as accompanist. Led by Andrew Wright, who oversees the young performers in Cirque du Soleil's Love, RagTag Entertainment, was formed with a single thought in mind: "The performing arts are for everybody, not just those who can afford them." With that philosophy fueling the company, they have gathered performers from the Las Vegas Strip and across the country who share the vision. There are many local performers who are passionate about the mission to enrich the communities of Las Vegas with the performing arts. The goal is simple: to introduce, educate, and enrich. Children and adults alike are introduced to various modes of live arts through the use of music, theatre, and dance. As audiences are introduced to each art form, they are also educated in its specificities. Lastly, they enrich the lives of the communities by providing exposure to new cultures through an evening of live performances. Throughout the year, RagTag Entertainment performs numerous concerts, cabarets, and fully staged musicals and plays. The Golden Age of Broadway will perform twice on Sunday, at 7 and 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance, and $25 at the door. Proceeds will benefit the Liberace Museum and the local branch of Olive Crest, dedicated to preventing child abuse, to treating and educating at-risk children, and to preserving the family..."One life at a time." This show is sure to sell out so be sure to buy your tickets soon. For reservations, call the museum, located at 1775 E. Tropicana (at Spencer), at (702) 798-5595. 
KT Sullivan 
Sharon McNight 
Michaelina Bellamy & Doug Saleeby And speaking of cabaret and the talented artists involved in the genre...The 2010 MAC Award nominees have been recently been announced. Tony winner, Lillias White (The Life, Fela!); Tony nominees and sisters, Liz Callaway (Baby) and Ann Hampton Callaway (Swing!); and veteran singer, Marilyn Maye, will vie for the Celebrity Artist Award. KT Sullivan (who has performed at the Charleston Heights Arts Center (with Mark Nadler) more than once; Tituss Burgess (The Little Mermaid, Guys & Dolls), Doreen Montalvo (In the Heights, TV's One Life to Live); and MAC (The Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs) president, Lennie Watts, made the announcements. Tony nominee, Sharon McNight (Starmites), will host the annual awards ceremony, which will also feature the presentations of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Tony Award winner Leslie Uggams (Hallelujah, Baby!) and Board of Directors Awards to Peter Leavy (the publisher of Cabaret Scenes magazine) and Playbill.com. Board of Directors Awards are given to "people, organizations or publications that have shown extraordinary support to the cabaret community." The 24th Annual MAC Awards, which will be held May 4th at 7:30 p.m. at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill, 243 West 42nd Street in Manhattan. Sharon McNight is a favorite performer at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin. By the way, Cabaret Scenes is available at both the Liberace Museum and Don't Tell Mama in downtown Las Vegas. If you have ANY interest in cabaret, this magazine is a must. There is even a section on Las Vegas. * * * * * * * Condolences to entertainer Kenny Kerr, who lost his partner of three years, Bill Kelley, on Monday. Bill, who had residences in both Palm Springs and San Diego (where he owned a limousine company), was only 49-years old. He is survived by his mother, Victoria Brown, and two sisters. If anyone would like to send an e-mail message to Kenny, please do so through ClaireVoyantLasVegas@hotmail.com. All correspondence will be forwarded to him. * * * * * * * We had a busy and fun last Saturday. We attended a noon fashion show and buffet lunch at St. Viator‘s Church, sharing our table with a group of very nice ladies. The fashions, modeled by church members, were provided by Dillard‘s, while the lunch was prepared by Joe LaVigna of Affairs Catering. Known as "The Singing Chef," after slipping out of his uniform and into something a bit more showy, Joe graced the crowd with his rendition of "Cry Me a River." LaVigna drew applause for both his culinary skills and his vocal ability. We made a mad dash from St. Viator's to get to the E-String Grill at Sunset and Mountain Vista in Henderson by 2 p.m. We were there to see Grammy Award-winning Gary Anderson on saxophone, Artie Schroeck playing vibes, Fred Watstein on bass, Mark Speights playing guitar, drummer John Plows, and Michaelina Bellamy handling the vocals. We were more than delighted to be greeted at the entrance to E-String by the charming and hospitable Norm Ross. Among those in the afternoon audience, we spotted Linda November (Mrs. Artie Schroeck), Nelson Sardelli, Teddy Kaye, Kat Ray, Kid Cary, and visiting entertainer, Doug Saleeby. Doug was there to surprise Michaelina...and it worked! Michaelina was a principal singer in the Tropicana's Les Folies Bergere, when Doug, and his musical partner, Chris Hudson, were the Atrium Lounge favorites, working under the name, Hudson & Saleeby. After her show, Michaelina would frequently join the duo for a song or two. She had seen very little of either of the gentlemen since they moved to Memphis in 1982. Wish we had gotten a photo of the lady when she spotted her old friend. It was a sweet reunion. 
Elva Saleeby 
Joe LaVigna 
Maggi Albisani Sadly, Doug's Vegas visit was cut short after he received a Friday night call from his brother, telling him that their mother, Elva Matney Saleeby, had passed way unexpectedly in her home in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, earlier that night. Doug was not able to get a flight to North Carolina until Sunday morning, allowing him to attend the Saturday afternoon music fest at E-String. Doug's parents, Elva and Ed Saleeby, had recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in Chapel Hill, where they had resided for 18 months. They had lived in Statesville, NC, for more than half a century, before moving to Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, for three years. Elva, who was born on July 23rd, 1922, in Sumter, South Carolina, grew up in Danville, Virginia. She was a member of University Baptist Church in Chapel Hill. Elva is survived by her husband Ed, a sister Thelma and a brother Eddie, and three children, Gary Saleeby, Anne Marie Selna of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Doug who lives in Memphis. A celebration of her life was held on Monday, April 19th, at University Baptist Church in Chapel Hill. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a favorite charity is requested. And speaking of Joe LaVigna, yesterday, "The Singing Chef," with a musical theater background (touring productions of Mame, with Edie Adams; George M; and Minsky's Follies at the Aladdin, now Planet Hollywood, in Las Vegas), was a guest speaker at Lewis E. Rowe Elementary School in southeast Las Vegas, as part of Career Day. Not only did Joe tell three different classes of third through fifth graders about his life and work history, he brought about 300 home baked cupcakes for the children to decorate and eat. He was quite a hit, with both the students and faculty. * * * * * * * Reminders...
Maggi Albisani, "The sultry Italian singer from the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn," returns for an encore performance at Frediani's Restaurant, 2895 N. Green Valley Parkway (north of Sunset next to 24 Hour Fitness), on Sunday, the 25th. We suggest checking with the eatery for her show times, as the information on her internet-posted poster indicates either no times or from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., while Frediani's says she starts her show at 7 p.m. Who should we believe? The number is (702) 433-1494. * * * * * * * 
Lou Toomin 
Steve Tyrell 
Norah Jones We are not a political column and, for the most part, like to keep our feelings about that subject to ourselves. Every once in a while, though, we make an exception...We are definitely part of the We Love Lou! campaign and urge others to jump on the bandwagon when it comes to Lou Toomin who is running for Assembly in District 15. On Sunday, Toomin will host a Meet and Greet at the Gordon Biersch Brewery-Restaurant, 3987 Paradise Road. Meet the candidate, listen to some great Sunday Jazz featuring the Tommy Thompson Project with Jeanie Snow, and have some cake and coffee, between noon and 3 p.m. There will be a No Host Bar. Toomin is not just a talker, he is a doer. Support someone real...someone who will be there when you need him. Call (702) 524-2577. * * * * * * * On Tuesday, we spent the evening with song stylist Steve Tyrell and about 300 other audience members that came to see and hear the recording artist perform in the showroom at the Golden Nugget. Backed by Quinn Johnson on piano; Jon Allen, keys; Steve Cotter, guitar; Matt Fromke, trumpet; Lyman Medeiros, bass and vocals; and Kevin Winard, drums, Tyrell performed selections from his numerous CDs, including his 2008, Back to Bacharach, featuring the music of Burt Bacharach. Steve's latest recording is called LIVE at the Café Carlyle. It is only available at his performances or through his online store. Steve Tyrell will be at the Golden Nugget through tomorrow night. * * * * * * * Tickets go on sale at noon tomorrow for Norah Jones' and guest Corinne Bailey Rae's August 22nd concert at The Pearl. This stop is part of Jones' 2010 U.S. tour in support of The Fall (2009) and follows a string of festival performances including Bonnaroo in Tennessee, Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland. The unique blend of jazz, vocal pop, bluesy country and contemporary folk, is what sets Norah Jones apart from other songstresses and has earned the vocalist and pianist multiple accolades. In October of 2000, Norah Jones had decided to pursue music as a career and created a group which recorded a handful of demos for Blue Note Records. On the strength of those recordings, Jones signed to the jazz label in early 2001. While touring as part of Charlie Hunter's group, Jones worked on her own material for her debut Come Away With Me. Released in early 2002, the album garnered much public attention, eventually going multi-platinum, selling 18 million copies worldwide, and winning Jones eight Grammy awards. In 2004, Jones, the daughter of Indian sitar player, Ravi Shankar, released her highly anticipated follow-up album, Feels Like Home. Utilizing the same producer and a similar approach to Come Away with Me, Jones' method of mixing '70s singer/songwriter-style tracks with blues, country and her own mellow take on piano jazz, led to success once again. Her third studio release, Not Too Late, was released in 2007, and 2009 saw Jones' return in a big way with the release of The Fall, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Rock Albums chart. Corinne Bailey Rae, described as a neo-soul songstress, released her self-titled debut album in 2006, which included the heavily rotated single "Put Your Records On." The album reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200, and earned Rae three Grammy nominations. Her sophomore release, The Sea (2010), is a personal album, heavily affected by the March 2008 death of Rae's husband, 31-year-old Jason Rae (a saxophonist for the Haggis Horns). Upon its release, The Sea was the highest new entry in the U.K. charts and debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 100. Tickets are $59 and $69, plus any additional service fees. Call any Ticketmaster location at (800) 745-3000, or visit www.ticketmaster.com to purchase tickets. The Pearl Box Office is open from noon to 7 p.m. daily. Doors for Norah Jones and Corinne Bailey Rae will open at 7 p.m. and show time is at 8 p.m. The Pearl is sponsored by Citi. For more information on upcoming concerts, please call (702) 942-6888. 
Corinne Bailey Rae 
Michael Jackson 
Johnny Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls * * * * * * * This news shouldn't come as too much of a surprise. After having their way with The Beatles (Love at The Mirage) and Elvis Presley (Viva Elvis at Aria in CityCenter), word is that Cirque du Soleil will turn their attention and creativity to Michael Jackson. On Tuesday, Cirque announced that late next year, it will put on a live touring show featuring the songs of the King of Pop. That will be followed by a permanent production in Las Vegas in 2012 at a property owned by MGM Mirage Inc. The casino company did not say which venue will host the show. Our guess is that it very well might be at the Luxor, where magician Criss Angel's Believe has hung in there (so far), despite mostly negative reviews. Then, of course, there is the theater at the Monte Carlo, which will be vacant after September when magician Lance Burton does a permanent (from there, anyway) disappearing act. A nightclub in Las Vegas will also open with the show. Cirque and Jackson's estate will each own 50 percent of the projects and share equally in the cost of putting them on. The estate will also receive royalties from the use of Jackson's music and other assets. Jackson, who died at age 50 last June after a drug overdose, was described as a "huge fan" of Cirque. Before Jackson decided on a series of comeback concerts in London, there was talk that he might make a comeback in Vegas. John McClain, a Jackson friend and music producer, has discovered more than 60 songs that Jackson recorded but never released. They form the backbone of a seven-year deal with Sony Music Entertainment worth up to $250 million. A new album from the recordings is set for release in November. Jackson's mother, Katherine, said in a statement, "Our family is thrilled that Cirque du Soleil will pay tribute to my son in such an important way. The concert movie, This Is It, based on rehearsal footage of Jackson's anticipated tour, went on to gross $252 million worldwide. * * * * * * * The platinum-selling rock artists, Goo Goo Dolls, are set to perform at The Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Casino Resort on Saturday, June 5th at 8 p.m. as part of the band's current U.S. tour. Formed in Buffalo, New York, in 1986, the Goo Goo Dolls released their debut, self-titled album two years later and, with the subsequent release of 1990's Hold Me Up, secured their place in the early ‘90s genre of college radio hits. The band went on to release several more albums, including A Boy Named Goo (1995), featuring the single, "Name." One of the band's most successful contributions took place in 1998 with the ballad "Iris," which appeared on the soundtrack for the movie City of Angels. "Iris" received great acclaim and became one of the Goo Goo Dolls most popular songs to-date, receiving three Grammy nominations and major market airplay. The band's next album, Dizzy Up the Girl, was released in September, 1998, and sold more than three million copies and included hit singles "Slide," "Dizzy" and another Grammy nominated hit "Black Balloon." The band released several more albums, including a CD/DVD, Live in Buffalo: July 4, 2004, and 2006's, Let Love In, which marked the band's eighth studio album. The song "Better Days," from Let Love In, proved to be another powerful anthem for the group, and the song was used by CNN to promote recovery efforts following the devastating Hurricane Katrina. Goo Goo Dolls released two greatest hits albums, Greatest Hits: Volume 1, and Greatest Hits: Volume II, in 2007 and 2008 respectively. The bands' ninth studio release, Something for the Rest of Us, is scheduled to be released this spring. As of 2009, the Goo Goo Dolls, made up of Johnny Rzeznik, Robby Takac, and Mike Malinin, have sold more than nine million records in the US alone. Tickets are $45, $55 & $65, plus any additional service fees. The Pearl Box Office is open from noon to 7 p.m. daily. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and show time is at 8. For more information on upcoming concerts, please call 702-942-6888. Please visit any Ticketmaster location, call 1-800-745-3000, or visit www.ticketmaster.com to purchase tickets. * * * * * * * Tomorrow, Saturday, April 24th, an open casting call will be held in Las Vegas for the all-new syndicated version of Don't Forget the Lyrics! Set to return in the Fall, Don't Forget the Lyrics! is a musical game show that tests contestants' knowledge of song lyrics from different genres, decades and artists. Mark McGrath, a member of the multi-platinum group, Sugar Ray, will host the show where he brings ordinary people center stage for a chance to win a fortune - just by knowing the words to the biggest hit songs ever recorded. Don't Forget the Lyrics! is the ultimate rock star fantasy, taking viewers on a dramatic, heart pounding, rollercoaster ride of music and edge-of-your seat entertainment. Don't Forget the Lyrics! premiered on July 11th, 2007, on FOX, and became one of the most popular shows in America, as well as an international phenomenon where contestants around the globe put their winnings on the line as they tried to not forget the lyrics. In addition to the program's broadcast syndication run, it will be presented on VH1, as well as in primetime on MyNetworkTV. The auditions will be held at Bonkerz Comedy Club, inside the Palace Station Hotel/Casino at 2411 W. Sahara, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please note that potential contestants and their guests must be 21 years or older to audition at Bonkerz Comedy Club. Photo ID is required. Casting is seeking contestants that are fun, outgoing and very knowledgeable of popular song lyrics. Also, contestants must be willing to sing the songs on the game show. Whether you like Motown or Country, we are looking for all types of music fans, as the songs are hits, from the ‘50s to present day Top 40. For an application and further details please log on to http://www.dftl.tv. About Don't Forget the Lyrics! * * * * * * * Unless you have already seen Luke Jermay in Mental at O'Sheas, looks like you missed your chance. We hear his show ends there tonight. If you are heartbroken, and want to see a show starring a mentalist, we highly recommend Gerry McCambridge, THE Mentalist. Even skeptics come away from McCambridge's show, amazed. You can be baffled and entertained at 7:30 p.m., Thursdays through Tuesdays, in the V Theater at the Miracle Mile Shops adjacent to Planet Hollywood. Call (702) 260-7200 for reservations. Also closing tomorrow is the Tropicana's Once Before I Go, featuring the pitiful remnants of Wayne Newton. We can only hope Wayne, who can't even speak, let alone sing, meant it when he promised to go after this swan song. What a sad, sad memory, for the once Mr. Las Vegas, to leave for his fans. * * * * * * * 
Tim Searcy & Tony Arias 
Rocky Gordon According to Tony Arias (and would he steer us wrong?), the Greek Isles Hotel, over on Convention Center Drive, is now the all new Clarion Hotel/Casino. How come we haven't heard or read that anywhere else? And how could it be "all new" unless they imploded the place and started over? At any rate, Tony tells us that A Victorious Gospel Brunch has opened in the "all new" Clarion. Well-known Las Vegas entertainers, Tim Searcy and the above named Tony Arias, head up this vocal gospel group known as Victorious! Victorious inspires, uplifts, and entertains the masses with their contemporary and traditional gospel music. Searcy and Arias have teamed up with the "all new" Clarion Las Vegas for the 1 p.m. Sunday brunch. A Victorious Gospel Brunch is welcoming special musical guests and choirs. If your church choir is interested in being one of the special-music guests, please contact Tony. To summit your choir or soloist, please send a recording (live or studio) via e-mail, to tony@wearevictorious.net, or by snail-mail to Tony Arias, Victorious, 5144 Stacey Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89108. For more information on this, call (702) 524-9817. If your church choir or soloist is chosen to be a special guest, church members will be able to attend for the low price of $29.95 (regular price, $39.95), and your group will have the opportunity to perform live on a Las Vegas stage! The champagne-mimosa brunch includes items like - Roast Beef, Roast Ham, Shrimp, Omelet Station, Mac-Cheese, Catfish, Apple-wood Smoked Bacon, Biscuit & Gravy, Beverage Station, Heavenly Desserts, and much, much, more! You won't find a better Sunday Brunch Show in Las Vegas! To find out more about this soul and stomach filling show, please go to www.greekislesvegas.com and click on A VICTORIOUS Gospel Brunch icon. The "all new" Clarion is located at 305 Convention Center Drive, with easy access from the Las Vegas Strip or Paradise Rd., hassle free parking, a short walk from the parking garage to the main showroom, and no crowds. Check out A Victorious Gospel Brunch for a hand-clapping, foot-stomping, food satisfying good time! Victorious Blessings! Call the "all new" Clarion at (702) 952-8000. * * * * * * * You are invited to celebrate the culmination of Jazz Appreciation Month with a free lunchtime outdoor concert by the Rocky Gordon Jazz Quartet, on Wednesday, April 28th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Centennial Plaza, located in downtown Las Vegas at 401 S. Fourth St. adjacent to the Historic Fifth Street School. Bring your lunch and enjoy smooth jazz, be-bop, funk, fusion and rhythm and blues. This city of Las Vegas Downtown Cultural Series performance is free and open to the public. A native of Philadelphia, Pa., Gordon is the son of renowned jazz tenor saxophonist Irv Gordon, who accompanied famous singers such as Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. The family moved from Philadelphia to Las Vegas when Rocky was young, and when work was plentiful for musicians on the Strip. From his studies at an early age on classical piano, Gordon continued his musical journey behind a set of drums as a student of big band great Irv Kluger (father of singer Jessica Marciel) . Self-taught on saxophone, Gordon later studied composition, arranging and orchestration with jazz legend Wes Hensel. FYI...Rocky Gordon is the father of former American Idol contestant, Mikalah Gordon. For additional information, call (702) 229-3515 or visit www.artslasvegas.org. The city of Las Vegas offers many events and activities to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike. * * * * * * * Delighting audiences of all generations and musical tastes, The Las Vegas Tenors bring their diverse repertoire of Broadway, R&B, opera and pop numbers to the Suncoast Showroom, this weekend, April 23rd, 24th and 25th. Originally formed in 2005 by Bill Fayne, Bobby Black, Teddy Davey and Mark Giovi, The Las Vegas Tenors have been packing showrooms and entertaining standing-room-only crowds ever since. The current incarnation of the trio includes original members Black and Davey, along with new addition Chris Coyne. Three unique individual sounds fuse to create a rich, full and colorful display of musicianship. Known for taking audiences from the heights of the Grand Opera to the smooth groove of jazz, on to the bright lights of Broadway and finally back to the classic pop sounds of yesterday and today, The Las Vegas Tenors have been praised by entertainment writers and music legends alike. The trio has an impressive history. Bobby Black, an internationally acclaimed vocalist and self-taught trombone player, travels the world sharing his musical talents with others. For five years, his powerful range inspired crowds as he performed as lead soloist for The Zion Brothers, a national touring Southern gospel quartet. Teddy Davey, who began singing solos at just 4 years old, has received numerous awards working as a performer all over the world. Locally, he has been known as resident singer at Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant, and lead player in the Ba Da Bing musical dinner party. Newest Las Vegas Tenors member, Chris Coyne, has performed in a number of musicals including the World Tour of Hair. In Las Vegas, Coyne appeared as a lead in Donn Arden's Jubilee! at Bally's Las Vegas, and as Host/ MC of Les Folies Bergere at Tropicana Las Vegas. Tickets start at $19.95, plus tax. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 636-7075, or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com. 
Las Vegas Tenors 
Chris Daughtry * * * * * * * As part of its current US tour, popular rock group Daughtry is making a stop in Las Vegas to play the Orleans Arena, next Thursday, April 29th at 7:30 p.m. Singer Chris Daughtry, a former American Idol competitor, bassist Josh Paul, drummer Joey Barnes, and guitarists Brian Craddock and Josh Steely will be joined by special guests Lifehouse and opening band Cavo. Daughtry launched its first-ever arena tour last fall, making stops all over the American heartland before taking a break in late December. Chris Daughtry says the excitement has not worn off. "Growing up, you dream about singing one of your songs in front of a packed house," he says. "I still get chills when we're playing and I hear the crowd singing louder than we are." The current tour coincides with Daughtry's latest single, "Life After You," that continues to perform well on the charts. The song is the second from the group's sophomore album, Leave This Town, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 last summer. The album's first single, "No Surprise," became the band's fourth No. 1 hit, and the band's third single is scheduled to be released this spring. Tickets are priced at $29.50 and $39.50 inclusive of tax and fees. Tickets can be purchased at the Orleans Arena Box Office by calling (702) 284-7777, or by visiting www.orleansarena.com.
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Tags: Kristi Holden Connie Francis Dionne Warwick Frankie Laine Kristofer McNeely
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - April 16, 2010 
Riviera Jackpot Winner 
Penn & Teller Talk about being in the right place at the right time, on Monday, Cynthia Anne Chevalier of Los Angeles, won a $414,676 Megajackpot® while playing Wheel of Fortune® quarters at the Riviera Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Chevalier, a clerk vacationing here with her husband, felt extra lucky on the day she became the jackpot winner. "I hadn't played Wheel of Fortune in a while and this machine was calling me," she said. Chevalier had played only $25 in quarters before her big win. "I didn't know I had hit the jackpot until the lady next to me said I was a winner. I was ecstatic." Rick Scheer, Director of Slot Operations at the Riviera, said, "It's a wonderful feeling to personally witness and share in the joy of such a life changing experience. Our guests were thrilled to see her win the $414,676 jackpot." Chevalier and her husband visit Las Vegas two or three times a year. Her jackpot will be paid out in annual installments. When asked about her plans for the winnings, Chevalier said she would use the money to help fund her retirement, arrange a family reunion in Las Vegas, and help her daughter and grandchildren. * * * * * * * This year's AIDS Walk for Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) will take place next Saturday, April 25th. AFAN provides support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada. AFAN works to reduce HIV infection through prevention education to eliminate fear, prejudice and the stigma associated with the disease. The organization has led the AIDS Walk for more than 20 years. Individual walkers and walk team numbers have grown significantly, sponsorships by local businesses and organizations continue to increase, and public awareness rises with every walk. Last year, more than 8,000 people participated in the Las Vegas walk, raising in excess of $550,000. More than 250 corporate and community teams raised 70% of the total funds collected. Teams represent some of the leading corporations and organizations in Southern Nevada, among them, Macy's, Nordstrom, Focus Property Group, MAC Cosmetics, UNLV, Wells Fargo, Penn & Teller and many more. Today, there is newfound hope in the fight against AIDS – but still no cure. Some people with HIV/AIDS are living longer, thanks to new therapies. Sadly, the new treatments do not work for everyone, and HIV continues to spread at an alarming rate. The annual walks will continue until AFAN is no longer effective, their services are no longer needed, and the purpose is no longer essential to the solution. AIDS Walk Las Vegas 2010 will start and finish at the World Market Center, 495 S. Grand Central Parkway, moving right on Grand Central Parkway, left on Bonneville Avenue, right on 4th Street, right on Coolidge Avenue, right on 1st Street, left on Bonneville Avenue, right on Grand Central Parkway, and back into the World Market Center Parking lot. To register, or for additional information, head to the Aid for AIDS of Nevada office at 701 Shadow Lane, Suite 170, or call (702) 382-2326. afan@afanlv.org * * * * * * *  Steven Seagal  Richel Kompst  Betty White Actor Steven Seagal is being sued by 23-year old Kayden Nguyen, a woman who claims he hired her as an executive assistant and then sexually assaulted her. Ms. Nguyen claims to have answered an ad on a Craig's List listing, seeking an executive assistant job at a production company. She believed the job would include clerical work in Louisiana, where Seagal was shooting a reality show. The 33-page million-dollar lawsuit details the sexual harassment against Ms. Nguyen, as well as illegal trafficking of other females. On Tuesday, Mr. Seagal's attorney released this statement: "The lawsuit filed by Kayden Nguyen against Steven Seagal is a ridiculous and absurd claim by a disgruntled ex-employee who was fired for using illegal narcotics. The claims in her lawsuit are a complete fabrication without a scintilla of truth." According to RadarOnline.com, this sex scandal is about to get even more complicated, with more women about to come forward to accuse the action star of sexual harassment. We absolutely believe this story. We remember when, a number of years ago, a pretty, young high-profile Las Vegas entertainer, was the victim of Seagal's unwanted advances. At the time, when this lech had a career, it would have been almost impossible for the lady to make accusations that would have been believed. Today, thanks to changing times, these alleged victims may have a good shot at seeing Seagal prosecuted. In the meantime, Steven Seagal Lawman, the A&E reality show featuring the exploits of the action star as a reserve deputy with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, has been suspended while he is involved with the lawsuit. We will have more on this story. * * * * * * * A friendly reminder...
Tomorrow at 7 p.m., Richel Kompst will Blame it on the Walleye, when she, once again, performs her tongue-in-cheek romp at the Starbright Theatre at 2225 Thomas Ryan Blvd. in Sun City Summerlin. This multi-talented entertainer takes her audience on a look at life from the viewpoint of a true Minnesotan. Kompst and her band the Nightcrawlers bring humor and music to the show. The master of ceremonies of the musical production is Olga Tolaffson, a persona Kompst switches to as comfortably as she changes voices for songs, á la Barbra Streisand, Ann-Margret and Doris Day. She may poke fun at Minnesota, but she said her roots are near and dear to her. "I'm proud of where I grew up, the family values, the people," she said. "It's a great place to be from." Tickets are $15 for Sun City Summerlin residents and $18 for non-residents. All shows at the Starbright are first come, first served with no limit on the number of tickets purchased. Saving seats is prohibited. Be sure to get your tickets early so you don't miss out! If an event sells out, every attempt will be made to provide additional show times, if possible. Show tickets may be purchased at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle. All ticket prices include Live Entertainment Tax. Tickets are non-refundable. Starbright Theatre shows are open to everyone ages 12 and over. All ticket sales are check or cash (exact change required). No credit cards accepted. For up-to-date information on Starbright Theatre shows, call (702) 240-1301. * * * * * * * We love Betty White. At 88, she is still, and will always be, a Golden Girl. Today she is possibly busier and more popular than she ever has been. Her this year's TV commercial for Snickers candy bar was a Super Bowl highlight, especially for non-football fans. After fans started the ball rolling, the octogenarian is scheduled to host NBC's Saturday Night Live on May 8th. She also has a new television series on approach. TV Land's Hot in Cleveland will debut in June. Earlier this week, the American Women in Radio and Television presented White with the Lifetime Achievement Award for acting. When asked in a recent interview, "Is there one thing you want to do in your career that you haven't done?," without missing a beat, brassy Betty replied, "Robert Redford." Like we said, we love Betty White. * * * * * * * 
Nelson Sardelli & Andy Schuricht 
Dixie Carter by Martin Kreloff 
Ms. Frenchie Davis April's F.I.O.R.E. meeting was a great success. Approximately 60 presidents were in attendance when Andy Schuricht, CFO of the non-profit organization, Three Square, spoke. The group of Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events, including politicos, statesmen, entertainers, businessmen and retirees, were moved enough to commit to raising funds for Three Square, the Food Solution for Southern Nevada and the valley's food hub; a central location where donated and rescued food can be collected and distributed. They provide bakery, produce, dairy, non-perishable products and ready-to-eat meals to non-profit and faith-based organizations. They also facilitate childhood and senior nutrition programs. * * * * * * * Friend and artist, Martin Kreloff, sends along this information..."Back in the '90s, I had the pleasure of painting Dixie Carter when she performed in Pal Joey at the Long Beach Civic Light Opera along with Elaine Stritch. This is a detail from the poster and billboard for the show. It was such a fun project," recalls Kreloff. "The show was to have starred Dixie and Sally Struthers. Then Sally withdrew for another role, and was replaced at the last minute by Elaine. The art had already been created, and had to be redone. Sally was out...Elaine was in. Whew. Right down to the wire. But oh the fun of seeing my billboards all over LA, and working with these delightful women." For those that don't know, Dixie Carter, best known for her seven year role as Julia Sugarbaker on the TV series, Designing Women, passed away this past Saturday. Dixie was married to Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor, Hal Holbrook (known for his portrayals of Mark Twain and Abraham Lincoln, as well as for TV and movie roles in Evening Shade, A Clear and Present Danger, The Bold Ones), for more than 25 years. See an image of Marty Kreloff's portrait of Dixie Carter in this column. * * * * * * * On Sunday, April 18th, at 1 and 4 p.m., join the Las Vegas Men's Chorus as they present I Gotta Feeling, a benefit concert for the chorus and the Nevada AIDS Project. The shows will take place at the Harmon Theater at Krave, adjacent to Planet Hollywood. Joining the LVMC is special guest star, American Idol diva, Broadway star, and Grammy-nominee, Frenchie Davis. Idol's second season semi-finalist has performed in productions of Jesus Christ Superstar; Monica, the Musical; Sing, Mahalia, Sing; Rent and Dreamgirls. For this weekend's concert, Ms. Davis will do a Salute To Dreamgirls, as she recaps some of the award winning songs she performed in the show's National Tours. This will be an afternoon to remember! Tickets are only $25. Call the theater box office, at (702) 836-0836. * * * * * * *  Buddy & Lezlie Anders Greco  Artie Schroeck From Lezlie Anders Greco (she and her hubby, Buddy Greco, who celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary on Wednesday) writes the following...
Exactly 5 years from the day we closed escrow on our Palm Desert house, we are leaving it! We are off on another adventure. We are moving to LONDON!!!! W e have so much work over there now, and there isn't much happening in this country for our kind of music...and for entertainers our age...so you go where your fans are. Buddy has been appearing there since 1949 - at the London Palladium with Benny Goodman. It is like our second home. We are excited and sad, all at the same time. Buddy and I both appeared at San Francisco's Rrazz Room in August. We produced a great album and film from the job and now, with those people, are recording Benny Goodman Revisited before leaving the country. In the past ten years, Buddy and I have produced the Fever show, which is doing well for us. We are doing it in June in regional theater, and then next spring on to the WEST END!! We wish the Grecos, who lived in Vegas for many years before moving to the Palm Springs area and opening a club there, all the best in their musical pursuits. And speaking of music, musicians and jazz...
April is Jazz Appreciation Month (who knew???), so get out, listen to some great music, and please show your appreciation. In Las Vegas, here are some suggestions (in order of event) of where to go and what you will hear...
Tomorrow, Saturday the 17th, its Sax &Vibraphone from 2 to 5 p.m. at the E-String Grill, 2031 W. Sunset Rd., near Mountain Vista in Henderson. The afternoon will feature Grammy Award-winning Gary Anderson (sax), with Artie Schroeck (vibes), Fred Watstein (bass), Mark Speights (guitar), John Plows (drums) and Michaelina Bellamy (vocals). A minimum $10 donation is requested - to show your appreciation. Sunday, The Summit, an 18-piece musical evolution, will be at the Brazilian Grill, 9640 S. Eastern near Richmar. The show runs from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., and a $10 donation is requested. If you ask him, at either of his weekend performances, Anderson will give you a free copy of his Sax Appeal CD, Volume 1, 2 or 3. He says, "If you have all three I'll make Volume 4 just for you !" Sounds like an offer too good to pass up. Also on Sunday, April 18th at 2 p.m., the Whitney Library Theatre, at 5175 E. Tropicana, just east of Nellis, will be the site of the Vibe Summit, presented by Vegas Jazz, and Vegas Jazz Presents Vibe Summit, featuring Dale Rampton and Artie Schroeck playing vibes. They will be accompanied by Ronnie Simone, piano; Dick Jones, bass; and Bob Chmel, drums. Tickets are available on-line at http://www.vegasjazz.org. Credit cards may be used online, but not at the door. Please plan accordingly. * * * * * * *  Suzanne Goulet & Denise Rose  Lynn Ross  Michael Orland & Mary Marcella Schwartz Entertainment legends Liza Minnelli and Judy Garland are "re-united" through award-winning portrayals by Suzanne Goulet as Liza and Denise Rose as Judy in Judy & Liza...Together Again at the Suncoast Showroom this weekend, April 17th and 18th. In Judy & Liza...Together Again, Goulet and Rose have perfected their personifications of the famous mother and daughter duo as they perform recreations of "Get Happy," "Swanee," "Over the Rainbow," "Bye Bye Blackbird," "Cabaret" and "New York, New York," from popular Garland and Minnelli films and concerts. Together, the entertainers will perform duets "Hello, Dolly!," "Alexander's Ragtime Band," "Be A Clown" (in their tramp costumes,) and a medley of other well-known songs. Debuting in 2003 at the Newport Hotel in Miami Beach, Judy & Liza...Together Again has been presented in venues throughout the United States. Suzanne Goulet began impersonating "Liza" in the '90s, and has appeared as the superstar in production shows, solo performances and on television in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Tokyo, New York City, Hollywood, and St. Louis. Denise Rose's uncanny resemblance to "Judy" has sparked a successful career of performing as the legendary entertainer. She has played in showrooms throughout Las Vegas and has performed as "Judy" in The Judy Garland Festival in Minnesota, the birth state of both Garland and Rose. Show times for both nights are at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, starting from $19.95 plus tax, can be purchased by calling the Suncoast Box Office at (702) 636-7075 or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com. * * * * * * * Lynn Ross sings all your favorites - Classic Jazz Standards and Vintage Pop - at Chiante Café, 1916 Village Center Circle, in the rounds near the Summerlin Library, on Tuesdays from 6 to 10 p.m. And songstress, Jeneane Marie, is performing at the House of Blues, tonight, April 16th, from 9 p.m. to midnight, and again on Monday, April 19th, from 8 to 11 p.m. * * * * * * * In our recent blurb, saying that Diane Ellis, who was originally scheduled to perform at Frediani's on March 30th, had been REscheduled to sing at the restaurant this coming Tuesday, the 20th, there has been yet another change. Unfortunately, due to circumstances out of her control, the fine singer will NOT be entertaining at Frediani's after all. Diane's friends and fans (and as a 30-year Las Vegan, she has many) will just have to see and hear her somewhere else. We will let readers know when and where she will be appearing. One thing we know for sure...as long as things remain the same at Frediani's, don't expect to see her there. * * * * * * *  American Idol's Top 9  Jim Caruso, Erich Bergen & Julie Garnye by Brian Putnam Our spies tell us that American Idol's Associate Music Director, Michael Orland, was in Las Vegas with the nine Idol finalists over last weekend. They were all going to see Cirque du Soleil's Viva Elvis at Aria in City Center to prepare for Elvis week on the popular reality TV show. The contestants returned to Los Angeles, via MGM's private plane, while Orland stayed around here a little longer. During that time, he and his longtime friend, Las Vegan and Handy Girl, Mary Marcella Schwartz, took in Barry Manilow's new show at Paris Las Vegas, where they ran into some friends - former Jersey Boys star, Erich Bergen; comic Scott Nevins; and singer actress, Julie Garnye. Michael worked with Manilow, beginning in 1991, so their backstage get-together was like old home week. Early this month, Orland, Bergen, Nevins and Garnye were all in attendance at Hollywood's Magic Castle for the West Coast premiere of Jim Caruso's famous New York-based Cast Party. Caruso and Billy Stritch's Cast Party officially proved to be a bi-coastally success with its West Coast premiere at the world famous Magic Castle's highly popular Cabaret at the Castle. The Extreme Open Mic, that has become a Broadway mainstay, was well packed with Hollywood elite, some of who took their turn at the microphone. The witty and charming Caruso took charge of the stage, while the genius of Stritch brought brilliant music to the ears of patrons and performers alike. Some of the many talents that took center stage were Bergen, singing his rendition of Britney Spears' "I'm Not A Girl, Not Yet a Woman;" Joely Fisher who sang "You Can Always Count On Me," from City of Angels, written by Cy Coleman and David Zippel (Zippel was in the audience!); Shelly Goldstein (who appears at the Castle in her own show on Sunday, the 18th) offered a parody she wrote called "Just Call My agent in the Morning;" Jimmy James, with "I Got It Bad And That Ain't Good," as eight divas, including Bette Davis and Eartha Kitt; Jo Anne Worley sang a parody of her own called "If I Had A Rich Man;" Melissa Manchester did "From This Moment On" from Cole Porter's 1948 classic, Kiss Me Kate; Cybill Shepherd also gave a rousing rendition of "I Got It Bad And That Ain't Good;" while Julie Garnye sang from Heathers, with composer Larry O'Keefe (who also wrote Legally Blonde) and closed the evening with "Gimme Gimme." Some of those who opted to remain in the audience and simply enjoy being entertained included, Eve Plumb, Kate Linder, Teresa Ganzel, Michael Orland, and Rosyln Kind and her nephew, Jason Gould. Cabaret at the Castle has announced that Cast Party will return on May 26th.  Lee Roy Reams in 42nd Street (1980s)  Karen Morrow And speaking of the Magic Castle - which in addition to honoring and featuring illusionists from around the world, also pays tribute to musical magic in the Cabaret at the Castle - Lee Roy Reams, one of our favorite song and dance men, performed his cabaret act there on Tuesday, April 13th. Of his night there, BroadwayWorld's Don Grigware wrote...
Lee Roy Reams Sells Out Magic Castle Appearance
Triple threat Lee Roy Reams performed his cabaret act on Tuesday April 13 at the Inner Circle of the Magic Castle to an SRO crowd. This was a benefit for SEALED WITH A WISH Foundation, Inc, which "enriches the lives of our troops living in combat zones by providing comfort and care items that they would not normally receive." To say the least, Reams' set was dazzling, as he told his life story starting as a boy in Covington, Kentucky, with tap and ballet classes, moving onto Ohio for college and then to the Great White Way where he instantly found success as a dancer in such classic musicals as Sweet Charity, Lorelei, Hello, Dolly!, Applause and 42nd Street, to name a few. There were Las Vegas engagements with Juliet Prowse, and TV with Danny Kaye, Carol Burnett and the Ernie Flatt Dancers, but for Reams, Broadway was the thing and he made it there, captivating with his very own flamboyant humor. He had to fight for some roles, but got them. The man simply oozes charisma, and not only sang beautifully but danced along with most of the songs. Highlights of the 90 minute set included: "Lullaby of Broadway," "Real Live Girl," tributing Prowse, medleys from Sweet Charity with Gwen Verdon's dramatic solo "Where Am I Going?" a thrilling standout, Dolly with a light but substantially rich song cut from the original show "Penny in My Pocket" and a comical tribute to how "Dolly has been used and abused" through the years with singing impressions of its stars including Carol Channing, Pearl Bailey, Ethel Merman and the man himself, Louie Armstrong. The medley from 42nd. Street was particularly touching as Reams put in "I Only Have Eyes For You" as a loving homage to Ruby Keeler the film's original star, whom he befriended during his New York run of the show. She remained close until her death. The finale was upbeat and patriotic in keeping with the mission of SEALED WITH A WISH to bring the troops home, a George M. Cohan medley: "Grand Old Flag," "Over There," and "Yankee Doodle Dandy." And, oh, those delicious backstage stories throughout about Prowse, David Merrick, Gower Champion, Carole Cook (seated at a table front and center), far too many to mention here, but sheer heaven! Lee Roy Reams is a treasure. As if performing in his parlor, he welcomed us in magnanimously with enough charm to launch a ship. What a uniquely entertaining evening! How many other big names give so much of themselves to their public and honestly, without concealing their true identity? I was first blown away by his performances a few years back of "La Cage Aux Folles" and as Roger De Bris in The Producers, so my only comment to him afterwards was, "Where was the boa?" His response? "I could have used one tonight!" Actually folks, he's an immensely talented bundle of joy without it! Lee Roy himself, told us, "The Magic Castle night was terrific. There was someone from every part of my career there: Carol Lawrence, Bonnie Franklin, Karen Morrow, Nancy Dussault, JoAnne Worley, Charlotte Rae, Carol DeLuise, John Bowab, Tony Charmoli, the above mentioned Ms. Cook, Brandon Maggart and so many past cast members and dancing buddies. I was overwhelmed." On Tuesday, Broadway's Darling is off to Naples, Florida, for four performances of his Gotta Sing, Gotta Dance revue with TheatreZone. TheatreZone has a history of bringing in fantastic one-person shows, including Broadway's original Annie, Andrea McArdle's, cabaret act, and Immaculee Illibagiza's Miracle in Rwanda. "Lee Roy Reams has one of the greatest pedigrees in Broadway history, and we're delighted to bring his comedy, song, dance and political satire to Southwest Florida theatre fans," beams TheatreZone's founding artistic director Mark Danni. Reams' song and dance show has taken him around the world: Venice's Teatre La Fenice, Brazil's Manaus Opera House, The Istanbul Hilton, New York's Carnegie Hall, London's Palladium and Rockefeller Center's Rainbow & Stars and to the White House four times to proudly perform for U.S. Presidents: Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. Bush and Bill Clinton. He played the role of Frank Schultz in the 1989 Paper Mill Playhouse production of Show Boat, which was televised on Great Performances by PBS. Lee Roy won critical acclaim as Roger DeBris in the first national tour and Paris Las Vegas' version of the Mel Brooks musical hit, The Producers. He also portrayed Lumiere in Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Albin/ZaZa in La Cage aux Folles, Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! and Henry Spofford in Lorelei (both starring Carol Channing), Duane Fox in Applause (starring Lauren Bacall), Will Parker in Richard Rodgers' revival of Oklahoma!, and in Bob Fosse's Sweet Charity starring Gwen Verdon. Reams, a Tony-nominee for his role as Billy Lawlor in David Merrick's legendary 42nd Street, performs his tour de force Gotta Sing, Gotta Dance, Thursday, Friday and Saturday (April 22nd through 24th) at 8 p.m., and Sunday, April 25th at 2 p.m. Tickets are $38-$43. TheatreZone, a non-profit professional theatre group, is the creation of husband-and-wife team, Mark Danni (artistic director) and actress/choreographer Karen Molnar. The co-founders share a vision and a passion ofo bringing the "Lost Treasures of Broadway," along with commissioned new works, to Southwest Florida. TheatreZone employs professional actors who are members of Actors Equity. This year, TheatreZone marks its fifth year as an Equity professional theatre company. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call TheaterZone at (888) ZONE-FLA, (888) 966-3352, or order online at: www.theatrezone-florida.com. * * * * * * *  Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show  Lucy Shropshire & Dionne Warwick The touring version of Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show opens at the Marine's Memorial Theatre in San Francisco, tomorrow for a six week run. Produced by Sandy Hackett, son of the late, great comedian and actor, Buddy Hackett, and Lisa Dawn Miller, daughter of legendary songwriter, Ron Miller, the show is scheduled to run from April 17th through May 23rd. The production, directed by Billy Karl, comes direct from Las Vegas, celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Rat Pack as it takes audiences on a journey back to the days of highballs, hi-jinks and happy hour with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Joey Bishop, and Dean Martin. It features the classic songs such as "For Once in My Life," "My Way," "Mack the Knife," plus original, never-before-heard songs written by the late Ron Miller. This production stars Hackett as Joey Bishop, David DeCosta as Frank Sinatra, Doug Starks as Sammy Davis, Jr., Tony Basile as Dean Martin, and Miller as Frank's One Love. Buddy Hackett himself is the voice of God, thanks to a voiceover recorded before his passing in 2003. Music Maestro Christopher Hardin leads the orchestra, conducted by Joseph Spraker. Marking a half century since the original Rat Pack's legendary Las Vegas performances at the Sands Hotel, Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show takes audiences on a journey back to the days of highballs, hi-jinks and happy hour with Frank, Sammy, Joey and Dean. Show times are Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Ticket prices are $49, $59 and $ 89. To purchase online, go to MarinesMemorialTheatre.com, or call (415) 771-6900. The theater is located at 609 Sutter Street at Mason, two blocks from Union Square. You'll swear that the sounds of Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show have conjured up the golden era of Vegas!" – Robin Leach, Luxe Life. The show continues at the Sahara Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. * * * * * * * If you happen to be around Gallup, New Mexico, tomorrow night, do yourself a favor and go see 2010 Nightlife Award-winners, Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano in This Thing Called Love at the El Morro Theater. Stephen Holden, from The New York Times, calls the twosome, "A witty his-and-hers exploration of romantic chemistry...a civilized, erudite musical stream of consciousness ..." The popular musical entertainers, presented by the Gallup Herald, will perform at 7 p.m. The theater is located at 207 W. Coal Avenue. Call (505) 726-0050 for reservations. * * * * * * * The Jewish Repertory Theatre of Nevada (JRTN) is proud to announce it's second production, The Sisters Rosensweig, on April 24th and 25th at the Theatre @ The Adelson Educational Campus in Summerlin. The performances will be on Saturday night at 8, and Sunday afternoon at 2. The theater will have a complete new sound system for the shows. General admission prices are $25. Seniors pay$20, and students $15. At the Saturday evening performance, there will be $50 Preferred Seating tickets that includes a Gala Reception. JRTN will accept credit cards. For tickets and information, call The Jewish Repertory Theatre of Nevada at (702) 243-6950. * * * * * * * If you are in the Manhattan area on Sunday, we urge you to go to the La Rivista Ristorante at 313 W. 46th Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues) and see and hear the incomparable Lucy Shropshire's tribute to the equally incomparable Dionne Warwick. For $75, guests will enjoy a very special evening, beginning with a scrumptious Italian meal, followed by a show featuring the best of both Warwick (songs) and Shropshire (vocals). Included in the presentation, directed by Jim Semmelman, with David Shenton as musical director, will be favorites such as "Promises, Promises," "Make It Easy On Yourself," "Déjà Vu," "That's What Friends Are For," a seven minute Burt Bacharach/Hal David medley, movie music (from "Alfie," "Valley of the Dolls," etc.), and a little known but very powerful Warwick song called "Silent Voices." For reservations, call (212) 245-1707, for what promises to be a memorable event. And speaking of Dionne Warwick, we hope to have more details (show times, ticket prices, etc.) on her upcoming engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton, where she will co-headline with Connie Francis over the May 21st weekend. Tickets for this event (it IS an event, as this will be the first time the two ladies have ever performed together) will go on sale at 10 a.m. Tuesday morning. Prices for the Grand Divas of Stage are $59, $79 and $99, with a Meet & Greet Vip ticket at $125. Taxes and fees will be added. * * * * * * * The Las Vegas Hospitality Association has announced that Stacey Purcell, national sales manager for Las Vegas Meetings Harrah's Entertainment, is the 2010 president for the LVHA tourism industry organization. As this year's president, Purcell's goals are to provide "even more" value to the membership, meaningful networking opportunities and money for scholarships. "It's truly an honor to be leading such a powerful and professional hospitality industry group," said Purcell. Stacey began her career with Harrah's Entertainment 19 years ago. Starting at Caesars Palace in catering, she progressed to leisure sales and then to convention sales. In 2005, she became national sales manager for the Rio All-Suite Hotel, and in 2008, moved into the role of national sales manager for Bally's and Paris Las Vegas. Purcell has been an LVHA board member since 2005, holding positions as director vice president of meetings, president-elect, and now president. Purcell is also a member of Meeting Planners International, Chicago Chapter, and the UNLV Alumni Association. She was born and raised in Maui, Hawaii, graduated from University of Hawaii in 1986, transferred to UNLV in 1988, and graduated with her BS in Hotel Administration in 1990. The Las Vegas Hospitality Association is a non-profit state association made up of nearly 500 working professionals in the hospitality industry. Originally founded in 1962, the LVHA encompasses a broad spectrum of companies supporting the tourism, convention and hospitality fields in Southern Nevada.  Stacey Purcell  Brandon Albright  Charo & Pamela Anderson * * * * * * * The La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts and McCoy Rigby Entertainment present the fourth production, and the "rocking-est" show of the theater's 2009-2010 season, BUDDY - The Buddy Holly Story, written by Alan Janes and Rob Bettinson, choreographed by Dana Solimando, and directed by Glenn Casale. Darryl Archibald serves as musical director. Performances begin tonight, Friday, April 16th (with a press opening tomorrow, April 17th), and will run through Sunday, May 2nd, at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Boulevard in La Mirada. On February 3rd, 1959, at the age of 22, the legend known as Buddy Holly died unexpectedly in a tragic plane crash. The date was known forever after as "the day the music died." Now, Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story tells the incredible story of the three years in which Holly became the world's top recording artist, in a show that features more than 20 of Buddy Holly's greatest hits including "Peggy Sue," "That'll Be The Day," "Oh Boy," "Not Fade Away," "Everyday," "Rave On," "Maybe Baby," "Raining In My Heart," Ritchie Valens' "La Bamba," and the Big Bopper's "Chantilly Lace." Glenn Casale, who earned his masters degree at UNLV, and is a faculty member of the UNLV's Department of Theatre, directed Broadway's Peter Pan starring Cathy Rigby (Tony Award nomination Best Revival) which was filmed by A&E and garnered two Emmy Awards. Off-Broadway; The Property Known as Garland, starring Adrienne Barbeau; and Dragapella at Studio 54 (Drama Desk nomination and Lucille Lortel Award nomination for Best Production). For Joop van den Ende's Stage Entertainment, Glenn directed the critically acclaimed The Wiz (Netherlands) and Disney's Beauty and the Beast (Netherlands, Berlin, Antwerp and Madrid) which was named the Netherlands' 2006 Musical of the Year and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as that country's highest-grossing musical. Tours and regional credits are numerous and varied, including several world premieres: Leslie Bricusse's Dr. Dolittle; Tyne Daly and Charles Durning in Ballroom; Wrestlers starring Mark Harmon and George Clooney; Bingo! the musical; Ken and Mitzi Welch's From the Top starring Carol Burnett. Los Angeles Ovation Award-winning Best Musical, Anything Goes starring Rachel York, Brent Barrett, Sally Struthers and Fred Willard. His television directing credits include ABC TV's The Faculty, starring Meredith Baxter, and The Wayans Brothers. Glenn is the Artistic Director for the California Musical Theater in Sacramento. The cast of BUDDY - The Buddy Holly Story features: Las Vegan Brandon Albright as Buddy Holly. In Vegas, Brandon has had starring roles in Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida (as Radames), All In: The Poker Musical, and Oh What a Night! A Tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Buddy performances will be 7:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Thursdays; 8 p.m. on Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays; and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays. There will be no matinee on Saturday, April 17th, and no evening performance on Sunday, April 18th. There will be a talk-back session following the performance on Tuesday, April 20th. Tickets range from $35 to $50, and can be purchased by calling the theater box office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310, or through the theatre's website, www.lamiradatheatre.com. Student, senior, children and group discounts are available. * * * * * * * Maybe Charo's coaching of Pamela Anderson on Dancing With the Stars last week, was of help to the former Baywatch star, and The Beauty of Magic co-star with Hans Klok at Planet Hollywood. Ms. Anderson was much improved during Monday night's competition, and survived to dance another dance next week. Stay tuned.
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Tags: Jackpot Penn & Teller Steven Seagal Richel Kompst Betty White
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - April 9, 2010 
Ariann Black 
John Thompson 
Lance Burton Shhh. It's a secret...or it was, until now. Magician Ariann Black will open her new show, Secrets, in the restored 200-seat showroom at the Westin Casuarina (the onetime site of the Maxim on Flamingo, a block east of the Strip) on Thursday, May 20th. Secrets, directed by the much respected Johnny Thompson (of The Great Tomsoni & Co. fame, and as advisor to Criss Angel, Lance Burton, Doug Henning, Penn and Teller, and Siegfried and Roy, among others), will be enhanced by three attractive female dancers/assistants, making for fine adult (over 14 when accompanied by an adult, please) entertainment. In addition, there will be a 4 p.m. Saturday matinee, geared to families. Tickets for children, five and older, will be offered at an affordable price. We will have those prices, and more Secret details, in next week's column. We are pleased to see this theater space, which formerly housed David Brenner and Forbidden Vegas, back up and running.
Incidentally, Ariann, who used to spell her name with one "n," will now be using two. Entertainment writers, take note. And while one magician is preparing to open, another has just announced his closing...at least at his current venue. Master Magician Lance Burton will end his almost 14-year run at Monte Carlo, Saturday, September 4th, during Labor Day weekend. Lance, who performs in his self-named theater at the south Strip property, has earned the title as the Las Vegas Review-Journal's "Best Magician" for more than 10 years. Known for his astounding illusions and mesmerizing sleight-of-hand, Burton debuted at the Monte Carlo on June 21st, 1996, the day the hotel opened. "Performing at Monte Carlo and introducing thousands of people to the world of magic has been a fantastic experience for me," said Burton. "I have loved every minute of this historic run and look forward to turning my attention to new opportunities." Lance Burton performs at 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday in the Lance Burton Theatre. Tickets may be purchased by calling (702) 730-7160 or at www.montecarlo.com. For more information about Lance Burton, visit his website at www.lanceburton.com. We are sad to report that, during the same week that Lance Burton announced his plans to leave the Monte Carlo, his mother, Hilma Burton, passed away in her sleep at her home in Columbia, Kentucky. She was 73. Lance will cancel his Tuesday, April 13th, show to be in Kentucky for his mother's private funeral service. He will return to his regular show schedule on Wednesday. 
Dame Edna & Michael Feinstein 
Christine Andreas in La Cage by Matthew Blank 
Kenny Kerr And speaking of show closings, where Lance Burton will have had an almost 14 year run when he ends his engagement at the Monte Carlo in September, Dame Edna Everage and Michael Feinstein brought down the curtain on their joint Broadway entertainment venture after a disappointing six-week run. All About Me, described as a "Broadway flop," closed at the Henry Miller Theatre on Easter Sunday. It starred the Australian housewife, channeled by performer Barry Humphries, and the sophisticated cabaret performer. All About Me was expected to be a hot ticket, but the pair failed to win over critics and Broadway audiences. And while we are still in a Broadway mood, the cast of the new Broadway revival of La Cage aux Folles, starring Kelsey Grammer and Douglas Hodge, celebrated its first preview on Tuesday, April 6th, with a post-show reception at Hurley's on West 48th Street in Manhattan. La Cage aux Folles features music and lyrics by Jerry Herman and book by Harvey Fierstein, based on the play by Jean Poiret. This "freshly reconceived production" is choreographed by Lynne Page and directed by Terry Johnson. The cast also boasts Fred Applegate as Dindon; A.J. Shively, a recent University of Michigan graduate, making his Broadway debut as Jean-Michel; Tony nominee Veanne Cox (Company, Caroline, or Change) as Mme. Dindon/Mme. Renaud; Tony nominee Robin de Jesús (In the Heights) as Jacob; two-time Tony nominee Christine Andreas (My Fair Lady, Oklahoma!, On Your Toes) as Jacqueline; Elena Shaddow (Fiddler on the Roof, Fanny at Encores!) as Anne; Chris Hoch (Beauty and the Beast, Spamalot, Shrek the Musical) as Francis; Heather Lindell (Hairspray) as Colette; Bill Nolte (The Producers, 1776) as Tabarro and David Nathan Perlow (White Noise) as Etienne. Also starring as "the notorious and dangerous Cagelles" are Nick Adams (A Chorus Line, Guys and Dolls, Chicago), Nicholas Cunningham (La Cage Aux Folles in the West End), Sean Patrick Doyle (Fiddler on the Roof national tour, Wig Out!), Yurel Echezarreta (West Side Story), Terry Lavell (Hairspray in Las Vegas, Smokey Joe's Café national tour) and Logan Keslar (West Side Story in the West End). The production also includes Christophe Caballero, Todd Lattimore, Dale Hensley and Cheryl Stern. * * * * * * * Longtime Las Vegas businessman, Herb Kaufman, passed away on Tuesday, April 6th, at the age of 80. Kaufman was born in St. Louis and moved to Las Vegas in 1965. For 20 years, Herb operated the WonderWorld stores. He later went on to partner with Johnny Carson in the purchase of KVVU TV-5, the No. 1-rated independent station in the United States. Herb was involved in a number of other independent business ventures. It was Herb Kaufman who "discovered" Kenny Kerr at a talent showcase at the Sahara Hotel. The year was 1977. Within a short time, with Kaufman as producer, Kenny Kerr and Boy-lesque had a home at the Silver Slipper, where the show played until the property closed in November of 1988. "We turned it into a locals hangout," Kerr says, "and sold out three shows a night." The two gentlemen were business partners for more than 15 years, and remained friends up until Herb's death. Kaufman served on countless philanthropic boards throughout his 45 years in Las Vegas, including the American Cancer Society, Sunrise Hospital, Easter Seals and the Clark County Housing Authority. In January of 1978, he was honored with the naming of the Herb Kaufman Community Center. Kaufman was the longtime president of Temple Beth Sholom, where he was instrumental in the growth and progress of the Jewish community in Las Vegas. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Irene; son, Jeff (Kristin); grandchildren, Dylan, Jake and Mia; son, Rick (Deborah); and brother, Bernard (Barbara). Funeral services were held earlier today at Temple Beth Sholom, 10700 Havenwood Lane, with graveside services following at Palm Valley View Memorial Park, 7600 S. Eastern Ave. The family requests memorial donations be sent to Temple Beth Sholom, the American Cancer Society or the Juvenile Diabetes Association. * * * * * * * 
Wes Winters & Taylor Moore by Mary Millard 
Wes Winters & Arlene Bates by Mary Millard 
Brian Keith Almost 400 people turned out to join musician Wes Winters for the Easter Sunday Mimosas & Music Brunch at the Renaissance Hotel on Paradise Road last weekend. Since ENVY the Steakhouse, where Wes does his ongoing Sunday performances, is rather "intimate" (that translates to, not too big), the festivities, including a dancing "pope," took place in the ballroom to accommodate the crowd. The top winner of the Easter Bonnet Parade was young Taylor Moore, while the fun-loving Mad Hatter, Arlene Bates (who loves bunnies, Easter or otherwise), came in third (see accompanying photos). The food was excellent, the music was wonderful, and we were surrounded by lots of good eggs, making for a fun afternoon. * * * * * * * If you want to see female impersonator, Brian Keith, play emcee to the Divas Las Vegas cast at the Imperial Palace, you only have tomorrow, Sunday and Monday, to do so. Brian, one of the last performers to play at the famed Finocchio's drag club in San Francisco, before the 63-year-old club closed in November of 1999, was born in Cleveland. In the mid-1990s, he ran The Cave nightclub on West Charleston in Vegas, which is where he met Frank Marino. In the late '90s, Brian went on the road as the emcee for a show called Sin City Sisters, before ending up as host/hostess at Finocchio's. Following the closing of the San Francisco club, Brian became a building general contractor, while continuing to perform occasionally for fun. In the early 2000s, he opened a show called Guys 'R Dolls. Realizing that, much like an athlete, female impersonators have a limited shelf life, Brian played it smart - he went back to school to become an RN. Today, he works primarily in an emergency room in the Bay Area, taking a little time off, every once in a while, to step back into his high heels and the spotlight. For the past couple of weeks, Keith has done just that, filling in for vacationing Marino, who has been on a long-planned trip to China. Frank returns to the Imperial Palace stage on April 13th. Las Vegas' pioneer Queen of the Strip (and stripTEASE), Kenny Kerr, who currently lives and works in Palm Springs, was here to attend today's funeral for Herb Kaufman. Last night, he took in Diva's Las Vegas to see Brian Keith at work. Brian gives Kenny a lot of credit for being his inspiration when it comes to the art of female impersonation. Incidentally, Kenny is currently performing at Look, 139 E. Andreas in Palm Springs, Sundays at 9 p.m. Call (760) 778-3520 for additional information and/or reservations. He will be at the Rrazz Room in San Francisco's Hotel Nikko, on Saturday, May 8th. Showtime is at 10:15 p.m. * * * * * * * Jazz lovers should be delighted to learn that there are three nights of their favorite genre of music being offered during next week. Beginning on Monday, UNLV will present the Jazz Guitar Ensemble, and Jazz Faculty, with Guest Artist Clay Jenkins on Jazz Trumpet, at 7:30 p.m. in the university's Black Box Theater. Tuesday, at the same time and in the same theater, it's Guest Artist Clay Jenkins once again, this time with UNLV's Jazz Ensemble I & II. Tickets for both concerts are available by calling the Performing Arts Center at (702) 895-ARTS. On Wednesday, at 7 p.m., as part of their Jazz Series, the UNLV Contemporary Jazz Ensemble, will perform a free concert at the Clark County Flamingo Library Theater. Clay Jenkins' career as a jazz artist has covered a wide range of musical experiences and responsibilities, bringing him to the forefront of the jazz performing and teaching arenas. Clay's experience as a performer began at an early age playing with Stan Kenton. He recorded three live albums with the Kenton Band, Artistry in Symphonic Jazz, A Time for Love, and The Lost Concerts, Vols. I & II, and was also involved with the "Stan Kenton Orchestra in Residence Jazz Camps." Clay moved to Los Angeles in 1978, where he was in demand as both a live performer and studio-recording musician. It was at this time that he studied with the renowned trumpet teacher, James Stamp. From Los Angeles, he toured with the big bands of Harry James, Buddy Rich, and finally, the Count Basie Orchestra. Since moving to Rochester, NY, to join the Eastman faculty in 2000, Clay has maintained a busy performing, recording, and teaching schedule. He has remained active throughout the United States (especially NYC and LA) and abroad. Clay continues to perform and record with the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, of which he is a charter member (the trumpet section has included trumpet artists Snooky Young, Bobby Bryant, Chuck Findley, Oscar Brashear, Byron Stripling, and Bijon Watson). Clay's solo recordings include Rings, Give and Gather, Yellow Flowers After, Azure Eyes, and Matters of Time. Additionally, his ensemble, with co-leader Kim Richmond, has released three recordings: Range, Look at the Time, and Crossweave. Other artists Clay has recorded with include Milt Jackson, the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Diana Krall, Billy Harper, Lyle Mays, Peter Erskine, Harold Danko, Rufus Reid, Ray Brown, Joe La Barbera, Kurt Elling, Dr. John, Bob Sheppard, Jim Widner, John La Barbera, Pat La Barbera, Eric Reed, Gary Hobbs, Rich Perry, Bill Perkins, Bill Cunliffe, Gary Anderson, Billy Childs, Steve Houghton, Lennie Niehaus, Ernestine Anderson, Karrin Allyson, and Miki Coltrane. His most recent recording project is with Eastman colleagues, Jeff Campbell and Rich Thompson, on their newest Trio East recording, soon to be released. Clay attended the University of North Texas (then named North Texas State University), where he earned his bachelor's degree in music theory and studied trumpet with John Haynie. He received his master's degree in jazz studies from the University of Southern California, studying trumpet with Boyde Hood, and currently studies with Uan Rasey. Prior to joining the faculty at Eastman, Clay held teaching positions at The University of Southern California, California State University at Northridge, California Institute of the Arts, Colburn School of Performing Arts, and The Foundation for the Junior Blind. Clay plays a Besson trumpet and represents this company as a performing artist. 
Clay Jenkins 
You Could Be Living Here * * * * * * * The homeowner of a beautiful, just over 1500 square foot, residence in Sun City Anthem, is looking for a compatible roommate (male or female). The lady would prefer an over 19-year-old reliable, non-smoking professional, with a steady job; someone who is neat and tidy and respectful of her lovely home; someone with a car that doesn't leak oil; and someone who likes, and isn't allergic to, cats. Of course, she would like all of these qualities to be in ONE person! The neighborhood is a gorgeous, age-restricted community. It is quiet, clean and safe in Anthem (Heck, Tony Curtis lives in Anthem!). The bedroom for the perfect tenant is just under 12 feet by 12 feet, and they would have their own private bath - with a skylight!
There are three community centers, offering just about any activity that you could imagine - including indoor/outdoor pools, Jacuzzis, workout rooms, classes in yoga/aerobics/dance, pottery-making, sewing, billiards, card clubs - you name it, they probably have it. There is a large theater where they put on concerts and shows, a restaurant, golf course, convention rooms, banquet and meeting rooms, bocce ball and tennis courts, a carpentry room, library, and the list goes on. If you lived in this home, you would have access to all of these amenities! The rent is $600 a month. The owner would require first and last month's rent. A payment plan could be worked out, if needed, for the deposit. A renters agreement would be signed.
For more information, or to see this charming home, call (702) 609-7351. No flakes need call. * * * * * * * Starting tonight, April 9th, pianist/keyboardist, Dennis Mellen and the multi-talented Herb Rawlings Jr., introduce an "after-the-work-week" Happy Hour at Chianti Cafe in Summerlin. A versatile singer, actor, dancer and playwright, Rawlings, has appeared in a variety of theatrical venues, both nationally and internationally. He made his performance debut at the age of two for Jackie Wilson and Berry Gordy, and his first professional appearance was with Josephine Baker's last world tour. Mr. Rawlings has been a featured soloist with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, under the direction of Mercer Ellington, and has appeared as Sportin' Life in the Radio City Music Hall, national and international productions of Porgy and Bess. 
Herb Rawlings Jr. 
Mark Winkler & Mary Foster Conklin 
Rex Reed He received the Fred Astaire Award for best male dancer in a Broadway Musical, and a Drama Desk nomination for his performance as James Thunder Early in the mega-hit musical, Dreamgirls, and has appeared in the national tour of Showboat with Donald O'Connor. Mr. Rawlings' vast performing experience led to playwrighting. He co-authored the award winning musical Doo Wop Love, and the musical, From My Hometown, which had a successful run at the Gramercy Theatre in New York City. In Las Vegas, Mr. Rawlings appeared as James Brown in the Imperial Palace production of Legends in Concert. He also played Brown in the Martin Sheen, Don Cheadle-starring film, Talk To Me. He has also performed at the openings of The Venetian Hotel and New York-New York Hotel Casino. Mr. Rawlings also impersonates Sammy Davis, Jr., and has appeared as Sammy at the Greek Isles Hotel & Casino and in various venues locally and nationally. Mr. Rawlings has also been a lead vocalist for The Platters, both locally and nationally. Beginning at 5 p.m., every Friday, Dennis and Herb will be performing a range of musical material, from jazz and standards, in the styles of Johnny Hartman, Nat King Cole, Lou Rawls, and Johnny Mathis; to blues, R&B and more, as the evening progresses. Don't forget to stick around for Sean West and the AK Music Band starting at 8:30PM for great dance music. Chianti Café is located at 1916 Village Center Circle (off Town Center, north of Summerlin Parkway). On Saturday, Dennis Mellen performs at Lucio Ristorante, 8615 W. Sahara (southwest corner at Durango, behind Charlie's Lakeside), from 6:30 to closing. Open mic starts at around 8, and all are invited to join in. On Sundays, Mellen performs from 6 to 10 p.m. (and sometimes later) at Salvatore's piano bar, inside Salvatore's Italian Steakhouse at the Suncoast Hotel Casino, with open mic starting around 8:30. Salvatore's has gained a reputation as a gathering place for a lot of great performers, including Sandy Anderson, Gary Anthony, Michelle Johnson, Herb Rawlings Jr., Michael Shane, and Nathan Brian Wine, just to name a few. Lots of fun and surprises at Salvatore's. * * * * * * * Auditions for the Rainbow Company Youth Theatre's production of Jack and the Beanstalk will take place at the Reed Whipple Cultural Center, 821 Las Vegas Blvd. North, on Saturday, April 17th at 1 p.m. The play will be performed from June 4th through 13th. Adults and children, ages 8 and older, are invited to audition. There is no cost to audition. (If any "theater company" tells you there is a charge to audition, LEAVE.) Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing. For more information call (702) 229-6553 or (702) 229-6211. * * * * * * * This week, we, along with many others, mourn the death of 92-year-old Thomas Angove. Mr. Angove invented box wine, making it easier to stack supplies in a corner, recycle, lighter to carry, and less expensive than the breakable bottled version of the stuff. The innovation, a resealable plastic bag in a cardboard box, took about two years to develop. Angove's idea was later developed into the cask, with a tap feature commonly seen today. While not necessarily considered the height of class, the wine cask can now be found at just about every North American wine store, as well as just about every North American undergrads party. * * * * * * * Singer Maggi Albisani's date at Frediani's has been moved from tonight, April 9th, to Sunday, April 25th. We don't know what is going on over at the Green Valley Parkway restaurant, but SOMEONE needs to get more organized! * * * * * * * Okay, all you Southern California music lovers...singer/songwriter Mark Winkler, with special guest, New Yorker Mary Foster Conklin, will perform tomorrow night at The Gardenia, 7066 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood. The 9 p.m. show will feature musicians Eli Brueggemann at the piano, Tim Emmons on bass, and Paul Tavenner on drums accompanying Mark and Mary. According to Winkler, "The last time Mary got off the plane, looking white as a Vampire, it took two days for her to thaw from the Manhattan chill. She is one hip and musical lady, and this is our third time together at the Gardenia," Mark reports. There will be some standards and old favorites too - "Somewhere in Brazil," "This Could Be the Start of Something Big," "My Romance" and "In a Lonely Place" - and lots of new songs, including Winkler's and Marilyn Harris' "Sunglasses in the Rain," which he and Conklin will sing together for the first time. The Gardenia is located on the corner of Santa Monica Blvd. and La Brea Ave., where street parking is available. Have dinner and see a swinging show. There is a $15 cover charge, and reservations are required. Joe Lange of Jersey Jazz says, "If anyone tells you that there is a hipper gig than the pairing of vocalists Mark Winkler and Mary Foster Conklin, don't you believe it." Call (323) 467-7444 for reservations. * * * * * * * 
Sam Harris 
Lee Roy Reams & Liz Smith 
Brad Cummings & Rex Sorry for this after-the-fact news...Last night, an event was held at the 1100-seat McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert that has Cousin Claire green with envy. We would have loved to see this star-studded lineup of talent, presented by acclaimed photographer of film, stage, journalism and fine art, Michael Childers. Childers did still photos for films ranging from "Grease" to "A Coal Miner's Daughter." He created the mixed media for the off-Broadway musical "Oh Calcutta," was a founding photographer for Andy Warhol's Interview and After Dark magazines, and Graphis magazine named him one of the 100 most important photographers of erotic art. For the last 15 years, he has also produced musical extravaganzas for charity. He called his first local benefit "One Night Only" when Lily Tomlin hosted it in 2002. Eight years later, he's still at it. Last night's SOLD OUT production, benefited Jewish Family Service of the Desert. New York critic, Rex Reed, hosted and sang a Cole Porter song in Childers' first-ever theme show, saluting "Hollywood's Greatest Music" and featuring almost two dozen Emmy and Tony award winning performers. "I just wanted to do something different this year," said Childers, who began producing his shows in Santa Fe, New Mexico. "I think every year from now on we'll have a theme." Thursday nights' entertainers included (in alphabetical order) dancer Phillip Attmore, performing Cole Porter's "Too Darned Hot;" Polly Bergen with "I'm Still Here" from Follies; jazz and Broadway singers Liz and Ann Hampton Callaway (Ann, who had a SOLD OUT concert at the Annenberg Theater in January, came to help sister Liz celebrate her birthday) will sing solo numbers as well as duets; Loretta Devine, a Grey's Anatomy star who sings blues and R& B ranging from Bessie Smith to Aretha Franklin, who will perform "I Believe In You;" Michelle Duffy, who has performed in Putting It Together and City of Angels; Nancy Dussault, a Broadway veteran and Too Close For Comfort star, singing "These Foolish Things;" Davis Gaines, the record-breaking Los Angeles star of Phantom of the Opera, performing "Old Man River;" Tony-nominated Danny Gurwin, singing Johnny Mercer's "An Affair To Remember;" original Star Search winner Sam Harris singing "Don't Rain On My Parade;" Wicked star Megan Hilty, performing "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend;" Rancho Mirage resident Alix Korey, an off-Broadway star, singing Judy Garland's classic "The Man Who Got Away;" Carol Lawrence, creator of Maria in Broadway's West Side Story, singing "Top Hat" from the film of the same name; Rita McKenzie, who has portrayed Ethel Merman for more than 20 years, will open the show with Merman's classic "There's No Business Like Show Business;" Marni Nixon, 80, singing two songs she dubbed for Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady, "Wouldn't It Be Loverly" and "I Could Have Danced All Night;" Broadway star Valarie Pettiford, singing the Frank Sinatra classic "Willow Weep For Me;" Lee Roy Reams, doing numbers from Jerry Herman's Hello, Dolly!; 2009 American Idol semi-finalist Von Smith doing the Dreamgirls flag waver "And I Am Telling You;" James Snyder, a star of John Waters' musical Cry Baby, singing "No Matter What Happens" from Yentl; Nita Whitaker performing "I Will Always Love You;" and John Lloyd Young, the Tony Award winning star of Jersey Boys, singing "Something's Coming." Dancers, Seth Belliston, Joel Longenecker, Michael Paternostro and John Todd, are also part of the program. Tickets for the event sold for $75, $95 and $140. VIP theater and dinner packages went for $375. From Palm Springs, our favorite Roger Debris (The Producers), Lee Roy Reams, heads to Hollywood and the Magic Castle, where he will perform his one man Gotta Sing, Gotta Dance! show at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7) on Tuesday, April 13th. The Magic Castle is the world's most famous club for magicians and magic enthusiasts, home to The Academy of Magical Arts, Inc., and is the showplace for some of the greatest magicians from around the globe. The magnificent Hollywood landmark known today as the Magic Castle recently celebrated in centennial. For more information, visit http://www.magiccastle.com/. Tickets are $30 and $35. A portion of the proceeds from the Cabaret at the Castle event will be donated to the Sealed With a Wish Foundation. The mission of Sealed With A Wish, a nonprofit organization, is to enrich the lives of our soldiers living in combat zones by providing comfort and care items that they would not normally receive. For more information, visit www.sealedwithawish.org. To purchase, call (323) 851-3313, ext. 434. The Inner Circle at the Magic Castle is located at 7001 Franklin Ave. in Hollywood. Then the song and dance man is off to Naples, Florida, where he will present the tour de force look at his musical theater history for TheatreZone, April 22nd through 24th at 8 p.m. and on the 25th at 2 p.m. Reams received a Tony Award nomination for his performance in 42nd Street. Among his other Broadway credits are Beauty and the Beast, The Producers, La Cage aux Folles, Sweet Charity, Applause, Lorelei and Hello, Dolly! His cabaret show has taken him to the White House and around the world, and he considers it an honor to have performed for four U.S. Presidents: Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. Bush and Bill Clinton. "Like Sophie Tucker always said," jokes the busy man who veteran entertainment columnist Liz Smith calls 'Broadway's Darling,' "I'm one old bag that never gets unpacked!" TheatreZone is located at 13275 Livingston Rd. in Naples. For information, or to purchase tickets, call (888) 966-3352. * * * * * * * The Las Vegas-inspired production show, Palm Springs Follies, is currently celebrating its 19th season with Let the Good Times Roll! The Follies is close enough to Southern Nevada to attract talent who make their home here. For example, this seasons' lineup included or includes, Susan Anton (October 28th-December 31st), and Mary Wilson (March 30th through May 16th), who both live in Vegas. Also performing during this season, The Four Aces (January 6th through February 6th), Rita Coolidge (February 9th through March 27th), and comic/ventriloquist, Brad Cummings and Rex (October 28th through May 16th). Although we don't know where the Aces, Rita or Brad live, we wouldn't be one bit surprised to learn that some of them also have homes in Las Vegas. Which brings up the question...Why doesn't this city have a show like the Palm Springs Follies? Goodness knows, there are many over 50 dancers and AARP member entertainers who would love to be back on the boards again. * * * * * * * 
The Edwards Twins & Trekkies Picardo & Wang 
Terri White Beginning on April 13th, The Edwards Twins, Anthony and Eddie, will be taking a leave from their show at Hennessey's Saloon, on Fremont Street and Las Vegas Blvd., to trek across the country, where they are scheduled to perform in and around Massachusetts through September. And speaking of the impersonating twins and "trekking," last week, actors Robert Picardo, who portrays The Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager, and Garrett Wang, who plays Ensign Harry Kim on the same TV series, were in to have dinner and see the revue and pose for pictures with Anthony and Eddie. We might remind readers that, while The Edwards Twins are touring, Derek David and the musical, Only You, will take over the theater at Hennessey's beginning on May 1st. Look for more details here over the next few weeks. * * * * * * * Grammy Award winner Michelle Williams has extended her limited engagement as Roxie Hart in the Tony Award-winning revival of Chicago through April 13th at the Ambassador Theatre. Williams, of Destiny's Child fame, had previously been scheduled to depart the production following the March 28th performance. She will join the Los Angeles engagement of Chicago at the Pantages Theatre on April 20th and continue there through May 9th. In L.A., Williams will be joined by Terra C. MacLeod as Velma Kelly, Brent Barrett (our Phavorite Phantom) as Billy Flynn, Tom Riis Farrell as Amos Hart and Carol Woods as Matron "Mama" Morton. In other Broadway Chicago casting news: Gossip Girl star, Matthew Settle, will now make his Broadway debut as Billy Flynn for an eight-week engagement beginning April 19th. Tony Award-nominee, Tom Hewitt, will return as Billy Flynn for a three-week engagement beginning March 29th, Amra-Faye Wright will return as Velma Kelly beginning April 5th, and former Las Vegan, Terri White (Finian's Rainbow), makes her debut as Matron "Mama" Morton on April 26th. There's never been a better time to experience Chicago, Broadway's razzle-dazzle smash. This triumphant hit musical is the recipient of six Tony Awards®, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy® and thousands of standing ovations. A sensational tale of sin, corruption and all that jazz, it's no surprise that Chicago has wowed audiences from Mexico City to Moscow, and from Sao Paulo to South Africa. And now it's in Southern California. If you missed it during its run here at Mandalay Bay, or would like to see it again, Chicago has everything you could want: knockout dancing, an edge-of-your-seat story and one showstopper after another. If you loved the Academy Award®-winning film, nothing beats the live show, and if you are already intimately acquainted with the musical, experience that sizzle again, Chicago always delivers! * * * * * * * 
Marty Allen by Chris Morris 
Leigh Zimmerman 
Janis Ian Birthday wishes to Aries (March 21 through April 20) celebrants, including Louie Anderson, Elton John, Katharine McPhee, Shecky Greene, Nicole Pryor, Carole Fishman, Steve Schiffman, Danny Calico (Colica), Marty Allen, Benny Hollman, Susan Meinhold Sobel, John Encinio, Leigh Zimmerman, Mary (Mrs. Bob) Flanigan, Henry Shed (Shead), Christopher Hassell, Mary Marcella Schwartz, Vita Corimbi, Corky DiFini, Ervin Drake, Wayne Newton, Tony Orlando, Jackie Brett, Janis Ian, Barbara Ciarlantini, Grace (Bambi Jr.) Morley, Arthur Lincoln, Lisa Dawn Miller, Jimmy Emerson, Wanda Dee, Michael Cohen, Arthur Shafman, Jerry Fink and Marvin Lashever.
Happy anniversary to Sandy and Lisa Dawn Miller Hackett, and Buddy and Lezlie Anders Greco. * * * * * * * Lady Gaga is coming into the MGM Grand Garden Arena on August 13th. With Lady Gaga's flair for the theatrical, combined with her innovative and creative spirit, The Monster Ball Tour promises to push the limits of the live concert experience, bringing returning fans a spectacle even more eye-popping than what they experienced before. Her special guests will be Semi Precious Weapons. Tickets go on sale tomorrow at $183.75 and $89.25 and $52 (all prices include 5% LET, plus a $7 handling fee). * * * * * * * Back by popular demand at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin this Sunday, The Keatings take audiences on a musical journey that spans numerous genres, including pop, jazz, rock, country, opera, Broadway, standards, and even gospel. Audiences are consistently captivated by the unique combination of powerful voices from a father and his teenage son. The Keatings perform regularly at various venues in Las Vegas and throughout the United States. Showtime on Sunday is at 3 p.m., with tickets priced at $12 for Sun City Summerlin residents and $15 for the rest of us. All shows at the Starbright are first come, first served with no limit on the number of tickets purchased. Saving seats is prohibited. Be sure to get your tickets early so you don't miss out! If an event sells out, every attempt will be made to provide additional show times, if possible. Show tickets may be purchased at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle. All ticket prices include Live Entertainment Tax. Tickets are non-refundable. Starbright Theatre shows are open to everyone ages 12 and over. All ticket sales are check or cash (exact change required). No credit cards accepted. For up-to-date information on Starbright Theatre shows, call (702) 240-1301. 
Wanda Dee 
Lady Gaga 
Jesse James * * * * * * * A friend sent this open letter to Jesse James our way. Enjoy...
Jesse,
You Stupid Bastard! You cheated on Sandra Bullock? How in the world can you be so stupid? You are married to one of the most beautiful women in the world; she has a body to die for, and her current wealth and predicted wealth is shadowed only by Oprah, who even Steadman will tell you, isn't attractive. But your wife, who recently beat out Julia Roberts in the polls and is now the named "America's Sweetheart"; you also remember she just won an Oscar (which translates to more money per picture she makes in the future)...while you were shacking with that tattooed freak, who just happens to be a former stripper and is someone's mommy.
You are really a piece of work! You are the most hated asshole cheater on the planet! And while the State of California is a no-fault state whereby you may be able to take half of your wife's wealth, in doing so you would only be hated even more...especially after Sandra's speech during the Oscars in which she did nothing but praise you. How can you live with yourself after she even cared for your children? I only have one thing to say to a despicable, miserable, cheating piece of crap that you are: Thank You!! You really helped to take the heat off of me. Lets do lunch sometime and compare notes.
Tiger Woods
Thanks, you-know-who.
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Displaying keen perception and great insight.
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Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - April 2, 2010 Late Breaking, Spring Break Column (We need a break!) 
Liza Minnelli 
Michael Buble 
Alicia Keys Mike Weatherford's editorial column in last Sunday's Las Vegas Review-Journal, asked, "Who will replace the Strip's aging singers?" We have been asking that same question for decades (we have been here a lot longer than Mr. Weatherford). Entertainment columnist, Weatherford, mentioned regular and semi-regular acts - Barry Manilow (66), Wayne Newton (67) and The Eagles, as the tip of the graying headliners iceberg who perform on Vegas stages. As we have mentioned before, Frankie Avalon (70); Tony Bennett (83); Cher (63); Petula Clark (77); Neil Diamond (69); Connie Francis (71); Engelbert Humperdinck (73); Billy Joel (60); Elton John (63); Jack Jones (72); Tom Jones (69); Gladys Knight (65); Bill Medley (69); Bette Midler (64); Liza Minnelli (64); Tony Orlando (66 tomorrow); Debbie Reynolds (78); Lionel Richie (60); Smokey Robinson (70); Bobby Rydell (67); Carlos Santana (62); Neil Sedaka (71); Frank Sinatra Jr. (66); Bobby Vinton (74); Dionne Warwick (69); along with groups like Chicago; The Lettermen and Little Anthony and The Imperials, are all eligible for senior discounts at Denny's. There are only a handful of young or middle-aged entertainers working Vegas these days and nights. Who will be the headliners 10 years from now? Why didn't any hotel entertainment director pick up Michael Buble (34) or Alicia Keys (29), when they were just starting to sell records, for example? In our opinion, it is because, today in Las Vegas, there really aren't many true entertainment directors...at least not like in the good old days. Look for vintage entertainers, Connie Francis and Dionne Warwick, to team up for the first time, when they perform together at the Las Vegas Hilton, May 21st through 23rd. We will have more details on this unique double billing in May. * * * * * * * Among the many things that Easter brings are bunnies, bonnets, colored eggs, and, in Las Vegas, the award-winning sounds of Wes Winters at the piano for the ENVY Steakhouse's popular Sunday Mimosas & Music Brunches. Wes provides the music portion, while ENVY's acclaimed culinary team and staff provide the rest. In addition to unlimited Champagne, Sparkling Wine, Mimosas, Fruit Smoothies and "Build your own" Bloody Mary Bar, this un-guilty weekly pleasure features Appetizers and Salads, including Heirloom Tomato Caprese Salad, Antipasti Display and Crudités with Balsamic Ranch Dressing, Fresh Fruit and Berries, Smoked Salmon with Tomatoes, Red Onions and Capers, Freshly Baked mini Bagels with Raspberry, Chive and Smoked Bacon Cream Cheese, Butter Croissants, Fruit Danish, Mini Muffins, Cinnamon Rolls and Bear Claws, and ENVY Signature Fruit and Granola Parfaits. In addition, the Stations offer Entrées that include Soup of the Day, Build Your Own Omelet Station, Honey Maple Bacon and Breakfast Sausage, Classic Belgian Waffle Station, Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise, Cheese Blintzes, Vanilla Raisin Brioche French Toast, Buttermilk Pancakes, Chef's Carving Station, Fresh Baked Breads, Roasted Red Bliss Potatoes with Herbs de Province, ENVY Seafood Station with Shrimp, Crab Legs and Oysters on the Half-Shell and Mini Gourmet Sandwiches. In the Decadent Sweets department, ENVY serves up Warm Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce, Chocolate Covered Strawberries and Assorted Mini Pastries. For Easter, there may be additional seasonal items added to the menu. Located inside the Renaissance Hotel on Paradise Road, the ENVY Steakhouse Sunday brunch takes Place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Prices are $29.95 per person (tax and gratuity not included).
Prices may vary on certain holidays for Mimosas & Music. Las Vegas online reservations are also available for your convenience. 
Wes Winters 
Artist Martin Kreloff & Marilyn Gubler And speaking of Wes Winters, he and his manager, Rod Russell, hosted a Passover Seder in their piano-filled southeast Las Vegas home on Monday night. We are sure that there were many other folks participating in holiday ceremonies, but we are sure none of them were this enjoyable. Both reverent and irreverent, one of the things that made this gathering a little different, is that the hosts are not Jewish, but all of their guests were. Among those in attendance were advertising specialist/psychic, Arlene Bates; Carole Fishman; Jerry Ritholz, who regaled the dinner guests with his version of the relationship between Moses and the Pharaoh; Dan and Amy Roberts from the Vegas Voice publication; and Barbara Winters. Good company. Delicious food. What more could anyone ask? * * * * * * * We were unable to make it to the official unveiling of artist Martin Kreloff's portrait of Las Vegas businesswoman, Marilyn Gubler, and her horse, Rusty. Kreloff describes the event, held at Gubler's incredible home, as "a magical evening." Marilyn made a touching speech about Martin and his work, and then unveiled the painting to a wildly responsive crowd. The public presentation was shared with about 40 family members and friends in a lovely ceremony, where photos of Martin's portraits of the Gubler children, actor Matthew Gray Gubler, and New York fashion designer, Laura Dahl, were also displayed. "It was a delicious feeling," declared Kreloff. "When you create alone, you don't hear applause very often...only in your mind." The latest Gubler portrait will hang at Marilyn's ranch in Sandy Valley, next to those of Matthew and Laura's. 
Marilyn Gubler & Rusty 
Larry Atello 
Susan Haller * * * * * * * Singer/actor, Larry Atello, returns to perform in Tony n' Tina's Wedding, as of this week. He will be playing "Donny Dolce," the wedding singer, on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, before going back into the interactive, mock-Italian wedding dinner show, fulltime, in June. Atello is also known around these parts for his Bon Jovi tribute show, Have a Nice Day. Tony n' Tina's Wedding can be seen daily at 7:30 in the V Theater at Planet Hollywood. Call (702) 260-7200 to RSVP. * * * * * * * We attended the March edition of the, usually, monthly Composers Showcase last night. (We know. March was over on Wednesday.) The latest showcase featured the songs of local composers and songwriters, including Jason Andino, with Formality the Band, made up of Kelli Oster Andino, Fontana, Mike Neufeld, and AK Watts; Ryan Beyer, Ben Hale, Susan Haller, Phillip Seaton, Kevin Stout, Keith Thompson, William Waldrop and Robert Williamson. Singing Keith's "Open Your Heart (and Let Your Love Shine Through)" was Phantom's Kristen Hertzenberg. This showcase was different than most, as, except for Kristen who sang Thompson's piece, the composers sand and/or played their own tunes. If you are a regular reader of this column, you know that the Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum is the current home of these very special evenings, with the $5 per person cover charge going to support the Liberace Foundation. The mission of the Foundation is to help talented students pursue careers in the performing and creative arts through scholarship assistance. And next door to the museum, at Carluccio's, the 26-year-old restaurant (four years at the northeast corner of Tropicana and Eastern, before moving to its current location in the Liberace Plaza, 22 years ago) will celebrate the second anniversary of For Love of the Keys with Rhythm, featuring Rebecca on piano and Stephen on drums, playing Thursdays in the Piano Lounge. To celebrate the occasion, on April 8th, Carluccio's will offer domestic beers for $2, plus $2 off on dinner, between the hours of 6 and 9 p.m. 
Carluccio's Tivoli Gardens 
F.I.O.R.E. Greeting Committee * * * * * * * Also taking place on Thursday, April 8th, but starting at 11:30 a.m. (leaving time to do other things later in the day), is this month's F.I.O.R.E. meeting. Guest speaker will be Andy Schuricht, CFO of Three Square. Three Square is the Food Solution for Southern Nevada and is the valley's food hub; a central location where donated and rescued food can be collected and distributed. They provide bakery, produce, dairy, non-perishable products and ready-to-eat meals to non-profit and faith-based organizations. They also facilitate childhood and senior nutrition programs, and is a place for members of the community to meet, serve and collaborate as part of the food solution. A national model project, Three Square is a community collaborative partnership with the gaming industry, businesses, non-profit agencies, food distributors, UNLV, the Clark County School District, governmental entities, the media and hundreds of volunteers to efficiently and effectively serve hope to the hungry. As CFO, Andy oversees and manages the organization's $11.5 million budget, human resources and information technology. He has been working in and around the not-for-profit sector for the last 20 years, including six years at the Springs Preserve. Prior to moving to Las Vegas, Andy worked as a consultant to cultural institutions, including the Baltimore Museum of Art, The Snite Museum of Art at Notre Dame and the Walker Center. He has both an MBA and a Master's of Arts in Arts Administration/Nonprofit Management from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. There will be a question and answer period following Mr. Schuricht's talk. The meetings for the non-club club F.I.O.R.E. take place at Bugsy's, 6145 W. Sahara, on the southwest corner of Sahara and Jones. Please note: No one is required to purchase an official F.I.O.R.E. name tag, but it is kindly requested that attendees have their name visibly displayed on their lapel (You provide the lapels, F.I.O.R.E. provides the labels during meetings.) It is also suggested that guests sit with different presidents each time, to get to know the members. Please RSVP to BABYEUE@AOL.COM. Shown in the accompanying F.I.O.R.E. photo, are (from left to right) presidents John Crosby, Nelson Sardelli, Charlie Licata and Gene Vitale. And while we are on the subject of the Sardelli family AND Three Square...It was revealed in last Sunday's (March 28th) Las Vegas Review-Journal, that Three Square, mentioned above, was voted "Best Community Organization" for 2010 by R-J readers. Last year, Three Square was the newspaper staff's pick for the honor, so this year they are more than pleased that they are the public's choice too. The organization, whose mission it is to provide wholesome food to hungry people, while passionately pursuing a hunger-free community, is humbled by the overwhelming support they have received since opening their doors in December 2007, and thanks everyone who for them this year. The support of Las Vegans, and their votes, plus this recognition, helps build awareness for hunger in the community and better assists the more than 280 Agency Partners who work tirelessly every day to serve those in need. What is the Sardelli connection? That would be Pietra Sardelli, Three Square's On-Site Events Manager. And, yes, she is one of the daughters of the esteemed humanitarian (he loves when we say nice things about him), Nelson Sardelli. And while we are on the subject of the Review-Journal, we have to wonder, What are they thinking??? Last April, when we paid our subscription a year in advance, we were offered a non-refundable reduced price of $99 for the entire year. Today, with the economy the way it is and the paper down to a mere shadow of its former size, the best price offered is $147.65. Who came up with this brilliant idea? With many folks using TV and the Internet to get their news, the R-J has come up with another way to lose subscribers. With what's left of the hard-to-use weekly TV guide, and the dwindling pages of "Nevada‘s Largest Newspaper," the only reason we can think of to have home delivery is for the once a week coupons and the puzzles (we love Jumble). 
Pietra Sardelli 
David Pomeranz & Kathie Lee Gifford 
Only You * * * * * * * On Monday morning, our friend, the multi-talented David Pomeranz was the singing guest on NBC's Today show's Everybody Has a Story segment. He sang a beautiful song, created by Kathie Lee Gifford (Pomeranz's writing partner for the musicals, Under the Bridge and Saving Aimee) and conductor/composer David Friedman ("Listen To My Heart," "My Simple Christmas Wish"), for a caregiver to a boy with special needs. It was a beautiful tribute to a caring young woman, and the family of the young man she works with, all in New York to share the experience with Today show viewers. Pomeranz has a brand new CD out. A Personal Touch, is a compilation of some of his self-penned love songs, made up of some of his previously recorded hits - "Born For You," "On This Day," "I Learned It All From You," "If You Walked Away," and the two Barry Manilow hits, "The Old Songs" and "Tryin' To Get the Feeling Again." You have really not heard this tune, until you hear the writer sing it. There is only one song on the CD that wasn't partially or totally written by David Pomeranz. The last track, My Romance, is the collaborative effort of a couple of composers that you have, hopefully, heard of, Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. Pomeranz has had a couple of too brief but sweet Vegas engagements - at the Stirling Club at Turnberry, and at the now shuttered Wyrick Theatre adjacent to Planet Hollywood. This is a talent that deserves a longer run and/or regular dates in this city, and Cousin Claire has put trying to make that happen on her "To Do" list. * * * * * * * On Vegas Talk Radio, Dining With Debbie's, Debbie Hall, gave the new Sunday Victorious Gospel Brunch held at the Greek Isles, just east of the Strip at 305 Convention Center Drive, a mouthwatering review. In addition to the eats, you get music, presented by Tony Arias and Tim Searcy. * * * * * * * If you haven't yet seen The Edwards Twins performing at Hennessey's on Fremont Street, you better hop to it if you want to see them in Las Vegas anytime soon. April 12th will be the impersonating identical twin brothers in Vegas until around October. The twosome are heading to the Colony Theatre in Burbank, and then to the Stoneham in Massachusetts, as they got an offer too good to refuse. Beginning on May 1st, another dinner show will move into the popular downtown restaurant‘s theater space, when Only You takes over during Anthony and Eddie Edwards‘ time away from the city they call home. Starring Derek David, re-creating his 40 years with The Platters, Only You will also feature David, Terrence Forsythe, Arnold Parker, Donald Pinkney and Rheda Williams, performing favorites such as "The Great Pretender," "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," "My Prayer," "Midnight Train To Georgia" and, of course, "Only You." Expect occasional guest singers to join the vocal quintet during their stay at Hennessey's. Dinner seating is at 6:30 p.m., with show starting at 8, nightly except Tuesday. We will have more details about Only You, including ticket prices, in upcoming columns. Hennessey's is at 425 Fremont, on the east end of the Fremont Street Experience.
For additional information, call (702) 204-5686. * * * * * * * Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel continues to book three headlining comedians each and every week. The Award Winning Comedy Stop has been relocated to the Sahara Showroom on the hotel's casino level. Headlining the week of April 5th through 11th, will be Quinn Dahle. Sharing the bill with Dahle will be Michael Gelbart and Paul Lyons. Dahle grew up in Minnesota, finished high school in Colorado, and went to college in Arizona, where he got his first taste of being a stand-up comedian. Not too long after getting the stage bug, young Quinn checked out of Arizona State University and headed for the bright lights of Los Angeles. Dahle is described as a smart, clean and witty comic with impeccable timing. "Ever since I was a kid, everyone around me, including my immediate family, told me I should do stand-up," Dahle said. "So, naturally, that was always on my mind and now...here I am!" Toronto-based comedian/writer Gelbart has a clever, nonchalant and audience-friendly approach to standup, taking life's most ordinary moments and bending them into absurdity. He has written and starred in his own half-hour episode of Comics! as well as for Weird-Ohs, a new animated series for Fox, among many other credits. As for Lyons, he can't stop winning. He's been the Inspirational Coach for The Washington Generals, Lindsay Lohan and Ted Kaczynski. Paul always looks on the bright side of life. Paul's cat will not use the kitty litter, "he's always thinking outside of the box," Lyons explained. Paul reportedly has A.D.D., but as he sees it, "I'm multi tasking." After Lyons' drivers license was revoked, he celebrated, saying, "I just saved a bundle on my car insurance." Showtime for the Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel is 9:00 p.m. Tickets start at $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a special ticket for locals (with proof of residence) priced at $19.95 plus tax and fees. For reservations call (702) 737-2878. 
Quinn Dahle 
Connie Francis 
Richel Kompst * * * * * * * Izzy Marion (real name Isadore DiMaria) passed away in Las Vegas on March 22nd. He was 77. Born in Detroit, Izzy had been a resident of Nevada since 1960. Known during his working years as Hairdresser to the Stars, Izzy served in the United State Navy during the Korean War. He was the founder of the Association of Italian Catholics, member of the Bishop Gorman Community, and an American Legion baseball coach for more than 30 years. He loved working with children. On January 16th, 1971, Izzy married pop singer, Connie Francis, best known for hit songs including, "Who's Sorry Now?," "Lipstick on Your Collar," "Where the Boys Are," and "Stupid Cupid." Connie was the top-charting female artist of the 1950s and 1960s, topping the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart with "Everybody's Somebody's Fool," "My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own," and "Don't Break the Heart That Loves You." She and Marion divorced on Valentine's Day in 1972, less than 13 months after their marriage. Izzy is survived by his daughter, Gina Marion; son, Gino DiMaria; sisters, Josephine, Modestine, Anna and Theresa; brothers, Sam and Tony; niece, Tina; nephew, Andy; and grandchildren, Ashlie, Alexandrea, Taylor, Isabella, Chase and Mason. Visitation was last Friday, at Palm Mortuary, 7600 S. Eastern Ave., with services the following afternoon at St. Viator's Catholic Church, 2461 E. Flamingo Road. Burial took place at Palm Valley View Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Let It Be Foundation, www.theletitbefoundation.com, 13905 Ramona Ave., Unit "J", Chino, CA 91710, helping families and children with life threatening illnesses. * * * * * * * On Saturday, April 17th at 7 p.m., Richel Kompst and The Nightcrawlers will perform Blame it on the Walleye - A musical journey through the neurotic mind of a Norwegian blonde, at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin. Richel takes her audience on a tongue-in-cheek romp in Blame it on the Walleye, looking at life from the viewpoint of a true Minnesotan. Kompst and her band, the Nightcrawlers, bring humor and music to the show. The master of ceremonies of the musical production is "Olga Tolaffson," a persona Kompst switches to as comfortably as she changes voices for songs, á la Barbra Streisand, Ann-Margret and Doris Day. "I might throw a Marlene Dietrich in there, too," says Richel. She says "might" for a reason. It seems Blame it on the Walleye is a work that's ever in progress. It started as an idea 10 years ago, and slowly evolved into its present form. In between, Kompst was busy performing on cruise ships and in dinner clubs. She may poke fun at Minnesota, but she said her roots are near and dear to her. "I'm proud of where I grew up, the family values, the people," she said. "It's a great place to be from." Tickets for Blame it on the Walleye are on sale now at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle community centers at $15 for residents, and $18 for non-residents. This event will also mark the release of the Soundtrack CD, featuring artists Cocho Arbe, Joey Singer, Steve Kompst, Gary Olds, Dave Stambaugh, T-Bone Demmon, Bill King, Dave Meyer and Richel. Call (702) 240-1301. * * * * * * * Also, coming back to the Cabaret Showroom at Liberace Museum, 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer, for a return curtain call on Sunday, April 11th, is cabaret performer, Phyllis Bell, accompanied by Spencer Baker at the piano. The show is called All My Laughter. Tickets are $15 in advance, and $20 at the door (seniors pay $12). Show time is at 5 p.m. 
Phyllis Bell 
Frank Sinatra Jr. 
Steven Wright * * * * * * * Premiere vocalist Frank Sinatra Jr. and his 20-piece big band conducted by Terry Woodson will pay tribute to his legendary father and entertainment icon, Frank Sinatra, by performing his treasured hits in Sinatra Sings Sinatra in the 500-seat Suncoast Showroom, April 9th through 11th. An inherited honor, Sinatra Jr. performs the songs that his late father sang during his stellar 50-year career, many of which the younger Sinatra witnessed first hand. The show includes such Sinatra classics as "I've Got You Under My Skin," "One For My Baby," "Luck Be A Lady" and "Strangers In The Night." A headliner in his own right, Sinatra Jr. was born in New Jersey, raised in California and educated in the showrooms of Las Vegas and on bandstands around the world. At 21, he made his show business debut as a singer with the Elliott Brothers Band. He later joined the Sam Donahue Orchestra, and then went on to perform in showrooms throughout the United States, Canada, Japan, Brazil and England. A talented songwriter, three of Sinatra Jr.'s songs – "Spice," "Believe In Me" and "Black Night" – were featured on the 1971 album "Spice," produced by the late Sonny Burke. In the 1980s, backed by a 17-piece orchestra, Sinatra Jr. opened in downtown Las Vegas and reintroduced the lush big band sound, sparking renewed interest in live music. In the decade that followed, he expanded his band to include 20 musicians and played the lounge at Desert Inn, marking the first time in 20 years that a big band had appeared in a lounge on the famed Las Vegas Strip. By then, he had also joined his father's staff as musical director and conductor, helping to choose the music and conduct the orchestra whenever his father was on stage. Sinatra Jr. conducted for his father at New York City's Radio City Music Hall and went on to perform his own show to sell-out audiences at Tavern on the Green and later, Trump Plaza in Atlantic City. His 1996 release of "As I Remember It," a tribute to Frank Sinatra's talents and the composers and arrangers, who defined the Sinatra legend, climbed the charts and earned critical acclaim along the way. In his tour that followed, Sinatra Jr. used a 44-piece orchestra and won respect from fans and critics. "When I was a boy, my father would often bring me to Las Vegas. I saw all the stars perform, and late at night, there would always be a name band playing in a lounge," Sinatra Jr. recalled. "I remember listening to Harry James, Count Basie and many other famous bands. It was quite an education. I always try to recapture the spirit of those late night sessions in my own show." In addition to performing with a big band, Sinatra Jr. has also shared a stage with showbiz greats like George Burns, Phil Harris and Flip Wilson. Over the years, he guest starred on television hits including Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In and The Golddiggers, and frequently appeared on programs hosted by legends Red Skelton, Jack Benny, Jackie Gleason, Dean Martin, Merv Griffin and Johnny Carson. Sinatra Jr. has appeared on the big screen in The Walking Major, a 1970 feature movie filmed on location in Japan, and the 2003 film Hollywood Homicide, starring Harrison Ford. Tickets are now available starting from $29.95, plus tax. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 702.636.7075 or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com. * * * * * * * Billed as the "Confucius of Comedy" by the New York Post, Academy Award-winner and Grammy-nominee, Steven Wright, brings his trademark wit, absurdist one-liners and monotone voice to The Orleans Showroom, April 10th and 11th. Beginning his comedy career at the age of 23 as a regular performer at Ding Ho's Comedy Club and Chinese Restaurant in Cambridge, Mass., Wright got his first big break and was booked on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Following his on-air performance, Wright was invited to return the following week for a rare back-to-back performance, launching his career into high gear. His new kind of comedy and lackluster voice caught the comedy world's attention and he appeared on Saturday Night Live, Late Night with David Letterman and many reoccurring appearances of The Tonight Show. As his fame grew, he was given two of his own HBO stand-up specials titled, A Steven Wright Special and Wicker Chairs and Gravity. His career expanded far beyond small screen appearances to include comedy albums, television specials and acting roles and writing for the silver screen. In 1985, Wright received a Grammy nomination for his debut album, I Have a Pony, and one for its sequel, I Still Have a Pony 22 years later. Following his second nomination, he was named the first inductee into The Boston Comedy Hall of Fame. In 1989, he received an Academy Award for Best Short Film for his satiric film, The Appointments of Dennis Jennings, which he co-starred and wrote. Wright has appeared in several other small and big screen films including Mike Myers' So I Married an Axe Murder, Desperately Seeking Susan, Half-Baked and has lent his voice to films for children including The Swan Princess and Babe 2: Pig in the Big City. Most recently, he appeared in Coffee and Cigarettes and The Aristocrats. Wright's ironic, deadpan comedy and bizarre observations continue to earn him regular guest spots on the late night talk show circuit with David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel and Craig Ferguson, while spreading laughs, giggles and smiles while touring the U.S., Canada and overseas. Tickets range from $29.95, plus tax, and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075, or visiting www.orleanscasino.com. Show times are at 8 p.m. The Orleans Showroom is an 827-seat venue featuring theater-style seating. * * * * * * * Diane Ellis, who was bumped from her last Tuesday date at Frediani's, gets her turn in the Italian Restaurant's spotlight on another Tuesday, April 20th. Mark your calendars for this fine singer. We are marking ours. Frediani's is located at 2895 Green Valley parkway, just north of Sunset in Henderson. For reservations, call (702) 433-1494. 
Diane Ellis 
Neil Sedaka * * * * * * * Neil Sedaka is spending quite a bit of time in and around Las Vegas these days. On March 27th, he was part of the 50 Years of Music & Movies with Michel Legrand & Friends in the MGM Grand Garden Arena (Legrand at the Grand). On April 10th, Sedaka returns to Southern Nevada where he will be performing at the Star of the Desert Arena at Primm Valley Resorts * * * * * * * And, just in case you haven't made your plans yet, you can celebrate Easter Sunday with brunch at Hash House a Go Go. Among the menu selections will be Filet and Eggs, Andy's Famous Crab Cake Benedict, our Giant Pumpkin Cranberry Flapjack or the Big O' Ham Steak and Eggs are just some of the specials available in addition to our regular Brunch Menu! Delicious Libations, including our Famous Bloody Mary, Kiwi Watermelon Lemonade, the Tangerine Kiss or our Hot Cinnamon Roll a Go Go, will get your day off to a great start! Brunch will be served at both locations, but dinner will be served only at the Imperial Palace Restaurant. Reservations are available for seating from 7 to 9 a.m., or 1:30 to 5 p.m. All other times are first come, first served. The 6800 W. Sahara Brunch Hours of operation are from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Imperial Palace Brunch Hours of Operation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Imperial Palace location will be open for Easter Dinner, from 5 to 11 p.m. For reservations, call West Sahara at (702) 804-4646, or Imperial Palace at (702) 254-4646.
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Tags: Liza Minnelli Michael Buble Alicia Keys Wes Winters Martin Kreloff Marilyn
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - March 26, 2010  Frankie Laine 1950  Frankie Laine at 90  Gary Waddell & Barbara Ciarlantini Reminder...
As we have mentioned in previous columns, this Tuesday will mark the 97th anniversary of the birth of singing legend, Frankie Laine. In his honor, and to celebrate the occasion, he will be honored with a Legend Star in San Diego where the popular entertainer lived for many years. This unique and prestigious plaque will be mounted on the wall outside Frankie's favorite restaurant, Trattoria Fantastica, at the corner of Date and India Streets (just adjacent to the famous street sign), in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy. The dedication will take place between 10 a.m. and noon. Laine's longtime Musical Director, Benny Hollman, will conduct his award winning big band with memorable Frankie Laine hits from the ‘40s through the ‘90s. Guest singers, including 96-year-old Herb Jeffries, will add their talents to the festivities. Jeffries, a deep baritone, sang with Duke Ellington in the 1940s. His most famous song, "Flamingo", sold more than 50 million copies. And then there were Laine's record sales. Starting with "That's My Desire" in 1947, Frankie Laine had a string of hits that charted in every decade into the late 1990s. The year 1947 was a big one for Laine, with "Mam'selle," "Two Loves Have I," "On The Sunny Side of the Street," and "That's My Desire." Those songs were followed by "Shine" (1948), "We'll Be Together Again" (for which Laine wrote the lyrics) (1948), " That Lucky Old Sun" (1949), "Mule Train" (1949), "Georgia On My Mind" (1949), "Cry of the Wild Goose" (1950), "Swamp Girl" (1950), "Jezebel" (1951), "High Noon" (1952), "I Believe" (1953), "Your Cheating Heart" (1953), "The Kid's Last Fight" (1954), "Granada" (1954), "Cool Water" (1955), "Jealousy" (1955), "A Woman In Love" (1955), "Moonlight Gambler" (1956), "Rawhide" (1958), "Please Forgive Me" (1968), "Lord, You Gave Me a Mountain" (1969), "Blazing Saddles" (1974), "Take Me Back to L.A." (1984), "Jambalaya" (1986), and "Song of India" (1997). Even those too young to remember Frankie in his heyday, are familiar with the lyrics "Rolling, rolling, rolling. Though the streams are swollen. Keep them doggies rolling. Rawhide." In 1953, Frankie set two records, this time on the UK charts. His recording of "I Believe" held the No. 1 spot on the charts for 18 weeks. Even today, the beautiful Ervin Drake/ song is listed as the second most popular song of all time on the British charts. As a singer, he also held the top spot (27 weeks) for an artist in a single year, when "Hey Joe!" and "Answer Me, O Lord" became No. 1 hits as well. Even with the monumental success of rock 'n' roll artists like Elvis Presley and The Beatles, fifty-plus years later, both of Laine's records still hold. Many people might be surprised to learn that Frankie Laine was also a songwriter, collaborating with fellow writers that included Hoagy Carmichael, Matt Dennis, Duke Ellington, Carl Fischer, and Mel Torme, among others. The credits of Chicago-born, Francesco Paolo LoVecchio, whose career spanned 75 years, are too numerous to list in this column. In addition to his more than 70 charted records, 21 gold records, and worldwide sales of more than 100 million records (including duet recordings with Doris Day, Patti Page, Johnnie Ray and Jo Stafford), there were also movie roles and television appearances over the years. Due to triple and quadruple heart bypass surgeries, Laine's career slowed down a little in the 1980s. He continued cutting albums, including 1986's Round Up with Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, which made it to the classical charts, Wheels Of A Dream (1998), Old Man Jazz (2002) and The Nashville Connection (2004). He recorded his last song, "Taps/My Buddy", shortly after the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attack on America. The song was dedicated to the New York City Fire Fighters, and Laine stipulated that profits were to be donated, in perpetuity, to the NY Fire Fighters. On June 12, 1996, he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 27th Annual Songwriters' Hall of Fame awards ceremony at the New York Sheraton. On his 80th birthday, the United States Congress declared Frankie Laine to be a national treasure. As for his history in Las Vegas, Frankie performed here in every decade from the 1940s to the year 2000 - playing at The Orleans in 1998 and 1999, the Suncoast in November of 2000. It might also be noted that in 1950, a photo of Frankie Laine (see in this column), taken on the stage of the El Rancho Hotel, was sent around the world via the Associated Press. It was the first time the world could see for themselves, that there was more to this little desert town than gambling. Frankie Laine passed away in San Diego on February 6th, 2007, at the age of 93. The public is invited to attend Tuesday's ceremony. For further information on this event, product availability, or anything else involving "Mr. Rhythm," contact Team Frankie Laine at jfmb@cox.net, James Marino, Frankie Laine's former producer/manager and the inspiration for the Legends program, at (760) 943-9911, or the Little Italy Association at (619)233-3898. * * * * * * * Please note: The March 27th benefit concert, featuring Mandy Patinkin at UNLV, has been canceled. It may be rescheduled at a future date.
* * * * * * * Lots of interesting visitors at Lewis E. Rowe Elementary School during the past few days. Some of our favorite local citizens graciously gave of their time to take part in Nevada Reading Week. Among those reading some of their favorite children's stories and/or books were, statesman Lou Toomin, candidate for State Assembly in District 15, who read to first and fifth grade classes; Gary Waddell, senior news anchor for KLAS-TV, who read Wait! No Paint! by Bruce Whatley, to fifth graders; and Barbara Ciarlantini and Mary Marcella Schwartz, who gave more than 150 excited children a sneak peek at Read To Me's video presentation of young actress, Anna Maria Perez De Tagle, sharing their co-created book, Handy Girls Can Fix It (www.handygirls.com). Harrah's headliner, magician Mac King, took on the entire school, when he read as well as performed magic for more than 600 enthralled kids, and Lewis E. Rowe's equally entertained staff, during two Tuesday morning assemblies. Mac read sections from the Sideways Stories From Wayside School, a popular series of three books by Louis Sacher. Mac, the father of a nine-year-old, is active with Spread the Word Nevada, a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) corporation, serving at-risk children by providing various literary services. Kids to Kids, a flagship program of Spread the Word Nevada, helps children create home libraries to read and share with family members. While developing a love of reading, these libraries promote future academic achievement and higher self-esteem, which impact lifelong success. Other Spread the Word Nevada programs include Breakfast with Books, family literacy service, and Books and Buddies, reading mentorship. Since 2001, Spread the Word Nevada has distributed more than 1.3 million gently used and new books to more than 150,000 of Nevada's youth. Contact (702) 564-7809 or visit SpreadtheWordNevada.org to learn more about program details. In conjunction with Nevada Reading Week (or month, as the case may be), Mac King will host a book signing and magic show, this Sunday, from 1 to 3 p.m., at Barnes & Noble Booksellers Summerlin, 8915 W. Charleston Blvd., just east of Fort Apache. He will perform magic tricks from Mac King's Magic in a Minute Great Big Ol' Book-O-Magic. The book is available for purchase at Barnes & Noble Booksellers or through barnesandnoble.com. See The Mac King Comedy Show at Harrah's Las Vegas twice daily, Tuesdays through Saturdays at 1 and 3 p.m. Tickets are $24.95 and available for purchase at the Harrah's box office or online at mackingshow.com.  Mac King reads to students  Mac King's new Campfire Magic Book  Clint Holmes * * * * * * * After receiving an e-mail promoting Tony Sacca's newest venture, Larry Taylor opted to share his response with Claire Voyant readers. We saw no reason not to print it so, here goes... To Tony or whom it may concern,
I am very pissed off that anything that has to do with Tony Sacca showed up on my computer screen. Not only do I not want to receive any information, conversation, promotions, Bull Shit, or fund raising information from this ASS HOLE, but, just for future reference, even his obituary would not interest me in the least. Although I would like for every live entertainer to have a venue in the city that forgot those that helped make Las Vegas a household name, it invokes disdain in me that Mr. Sacca has anything to do with it. His accomplishments have always been on the coat tails of others, and nothing original has ever come from him that was noteworthy. As someone who has been involved with entertainment and show business since 1970 (now, pretty much retired), know that my knowledge has to with direct dealings and not gossip about Tony Sacca. On a professional and personal level I have had dealings with this man. I find him to be an egomaniac to the extreme, rude, inconsiderate, a liar and one that steals others ideas and claims them as his own. I am sorry to have ever been associated with him, even giving him a platform to show his "talent." Everything fell short. He could not even try to be a friend because his head is so far up his ass all he can see is himself! Oh, by the way, did I mention I want you to remove me from your mailing list?
(Signed) Sincerely, and I mean Sincerely,
Las Vegas' longest running club DJ, producer, director, choreographer, actor and not a pretend to be singer (because I know when no one wants to pay for my voice, therefore I only do it when I'm asked and I don't expect a pat on the back while clapping for my type of performance and it's all in fun especially when I meet someone as bad as me). Thanks Tony for showing me why I should just listen and not get in the way of true talent.
Larry Taylor Surprisingly, we received the same shameless plug by this fool. Why in the world would he think that we give a rat's ass as to what he might be going? Does he think that we will EVER promote anything he is involved in? If readers recall, in June of 2007, Mr. "Huge Ego and No Talent," threatened to sue us unless we printed a retraction of TRUE things we had written about him. Needless to say, there was no retraction. And, yes, for those who did not figure it out already, this joker is the guilty party that we didn't mention by name in our column of March 12th. It was he who hit the sour/flat notes during the finale of the Bill Fayne tribute show held at the Suncoast on the afternoon of March 6th. It was no surprise that the Suncoast audience gave what could be described as a very lukewarm response, when this joker was introduced at the show. Why? Because, either they had no clue who this guy was (and didn't care), or, they knew exactly who he was (and didn't care). Apparently, this fellow just doesn't get it...even though his list of detractors is growing by leaps and bounds...and for very good reasons. A wise man (and former friend of this jerk) shared this Arabic (or possibly Chinese) proverb with us, "The enemy of my enemy is my friend." Based on a recent conversation we had with another former friend of this fellow (he would be HORRIFIED to know who it was), this adage is very appropriate. Mr. Big Shot is painting himself into a corner he may not be able to get out of. Stay tuned. * * * * * * * The old motto, "The show must go on," proved true earlier this week at Hennessey's in downtown Las Vegas. An hour before show time on Wednesday, Howard Jochsberger, who has been serving as producer/manager for The Edwards Twins since Anthony and Eddie Edwards opened in their own self-named showroom at the establishment in December, took a tumble backstage, breaking his leg in the process. Paramedics were called, parking their vehicle on busy Las Vegas Blvd., to enter Hennessey's and retrieve the injured victim. Although seriously hurt, Jochsberger's main concern was that the full showroom not be disrupted and that the show go on as scheduled. In trying to maintain a sense of humor, Howard, a retired longtime Boyd Gaming employee, noted that he had "stopped traffic" on Las Vegas Blvd. Jochsberger underwent surgery on Thursday morning. A dear friend, we wish this fine gentleman a very speedy recovery. * * * * * * * Clint Holmes stars in My Own Song at the Flat Rock Playhouse, The State Theatre of North Carolina, from March 31st through April 25th. Show times are at 8 p.m. Flat Rock Playhouse is considered one of the Top Ten Theaters in the Country, producing Broadway quality plays. The eight month season includes world premieres and standard Broadway musicals, comedy, and drama. The Playhouse is open from early-May through mid-October, plus holiday productions. The Flat Rock Playhouse was founded was founded in 1952. In 1961, by an Act of the North Carolina General Assembly, Flat Rock Playhouse was officially designated The State Theatre of North Carolina. In addition to presenting top quality productions, Flat Rock Playhouse, operated by The Vagabond School of the Drama, Inc., is committed to teaching the performing arts. It is located at 2661 Greenville Hwy. in, surprise, Flat Rock. For reservations or additional information, call (828) 693-0731 or e-mail frp@flatrockplayhouse.org * * * * * * * Another one of our favorites, talented vocalist Diane Ellis, WAS scheduled to be in the spotlight at Frediani's Italian Restaurant on Tuesday (March 30th). Due to an inexcusable "mistake" by the woman who is supposed to book the talent at the Henderson establishment, Ellis will not be performing during the upcoming week. Here is the story. Diane's March 30th date was set at the end of January. The person responsible for doing that, wrote it in her "book" that very night. Yet, almost two months later, when it was discovered that another singer has been booked for Diane's Tuesday night, Ms. Professional claimed she wrote the information on a "DRY ERASE CALENDAR." Huh? Like the information rubbed off her "calendar" and disappeared? When that made no sense, another equally ridiculous excuse was used for this "faux pas." This time, it was because she THOUGHT Diane was singing someplace else, although she never asked. EVERYONE who does a night in a local restaurant/club on occasion, works other places (hopefully not on the same day at the same time). Who can make a living, or even cover their travel costs, on a once-in-a-while gig? A couple of weeks ago, Diane and two fellow singers did a couple of numbers during open mic night at Frediani's. On that evening, before and after her songs, Diane reminded the audience that she would be performing at the eatery on March 30th. This was mentioned in front of Enrico , the cordial restaurant owner. When Ms. Ellis told this to the "employee" whose job it is to handle these things, she referred to her boss as "a Fluff Head," saying, "that's why I do the booking." Is this any way to run a business? We think not. 
Diane Ellis 
Pollux with the Seagrave Sisters 
Terese Genecco * * * * * * * They call themselves Pollux. The San Francisco-based band describes their music as "Torch Rock," 1. (n) a term that refers to a heavier version of the traditional jazz or blues structured style. The group is made up of Carey Head on vocals, guitar, keyboard; Kevin Weber on drums, percussion; Daniel Stevenson on bass; and Matthew Charles Heulitt on guitar. Their influences include Jeff Buckley, Radiohead, and Rufus Wainwright. Performing locally and internationally, Pollux has played many well-known venues like The Great American Music Hall and Cafe du Nord in San Francisco, Club Midway in New York, The Winston in Amsterdam, and The Wilmington Arms in London. Joined by the singing Seagrave Sisters, Elizabeth and Jill, Pollux recently participated in a fundraiser to benefit the George Mark Children's House in San Leandro, California. George Mark Children's House provides the gift of time to children with life-limiting illnesses and their families – time for kids to be just kids and parents to be "mom" and "dad", instead of round-the-clock caregivers. As the first— and, currently, only—freestanding residential pediatric palliative care facility in the United States, they offer a unique alternative to hospice, hospital, or home care. The House is setting a new standard for pediatric palliative care, providing high-quality medical care to children with life-limiting illnesses and much-needed support services to their parents and siblings in a home-like setting. Jill and Elizabeth are the daughters of Las Vegans, Jan and Jim Seagrave. The proud father is a longtime, much-respected Vegas PR man, and currently holds the title of Vice President of Advertising for Boyd Gaming. * * * * * * * If you happen to be on that other coast this Tuesday (March 30th), singer/songwriter Mark Winkler will be joining Terese Genecco and her Little Big Band for 8 and 10 p.m. shows at the Iridium Jazz Club, 1650 Broadway (at 51st St.), in Manhattan. Mark, who performed in Vegas on Valentine's Day, states that "Terese is a fantastic entertainer, small of stature and huge in talent. I'm so excited to be joining her and her Little Big Band in New York. I'll be her "special guest" during her one year anniversary playing the Iridium. I'll be doing some songs from my CD Till I Get It Right, but for the first time I'll be doing some big band things. Terese and I will be making like Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme (I don't know which one will be Eydie yet) on the Steve Allen-penned, "This Could Be the Start of Something Big," and I'll be doing some standards with the Big Band, like "Ain't That a Kick In the Head," "Everybody Cha Cha," and others." Reservations are a must! Contact the Iridium at (212) 582-2121. * * * * * * * As mentioned in an earlier column, the March edition of the Composers Showcase will take place on April 1st (no fooling!). At this time, Keith Thompson, the musical director for Jersey Boys as well as the glue that holds the showcase together, is in Auburn, New York, where he, and cast mates, Patrick DeGennaro, Vanessa A. Jones, Perry Payne and Jay Rogers, will perform Thompson's Kooky Tunes for the debut season of The Broadway Series at the Springside Inn in Auburn. The new dinner theatre series is dedicated to the memory of Auburn native, Thommie Walsh, the late two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award winner. The producers of the new series are, A Chorus Line's Baayork Lee; director/choreographer Merete Muenter; and Barbara Walsh, sister of the late Thommie Walsh. Director/Choreographer Walsh's journey began at age five when he was enrolled at the Irma Baker School of Dance. By 1975, he was creating the role of "Bobby" in the original Broadway production of A Chorus Line. He later co-wrote a book about the musical published by William Morrow, entitled On the Line, chronicling its early beginnings. His success on Broadway continued as choreographer for The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, followed by The 1940's Radio Hour, Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?, Nine, Lunch Hour, and My Favorite Year. He received the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for his choreography in A Day in Hollywood/ A Night in The Ukraine, and My One and Only, for which he also received a Tony Award nomination for best direction. Thommie went on to direct Lucky Stiff off- Broadway, Always (West End debut), and A Broadway Baby at Goodspeed Opera House. He also directed and staged musical numbers for Chita Rivera, Sandy Duncan, Mitzi Gaynor, Donna McKechnie, Whoppi Goldberg, Lorna Luft, Priscilla Lopez, Joel Grey and Barbara Cook. Mr. Walsh directed and choreographed the national tour of Whorehouse, starring Ann-Margret and Gary Sandy. Walsh directed performances of Kooky Tunes to sold-out crowds in Manhattan nightspots, before passing away from complications of lymphoma in June 2007. The revue, called "A non-stop laugh riot," by Peter Leavy of Cabaret Scenes, was part of a tribute to Walsh at Sardi's after his death. Kooky Tunes, Thompson's clever musical revue, a "must-see," according to Billboard, is described as a "special mélange of comic tales and tunes." "Kooky Tunes is easily one of the funniest and most entertaining shows I've ever seen," wrote David Hurst of Showbusiness Weekly. To purchase tickets or for more information, please visit the Springside Inn website at www.springsideinn.com. Portions of the proceeds will go to a scholarship fund named for Walsh. 
Thommie Walsh & Keith Thompson 
David Pomeranz 
The Lettermen Via his Verizon Wireless BlackBerry, sent while traveling by train to the Springside Inn in upstate New York, Keith tells us that among the composers featured on the upcoming showcase, will be Jason Andino, Amos Glick, Rylan Leo Helmuth and Thompson himself. * * * * * * * Singer/songwriter/musician, David Pomeranz (a favorite of Cousin Claire's), will appear, with Kathie Me Gifford and Hoda Kotb, on the fourth hour of NBC's Today show (airing from 10 to 11 a.m. in most time zones), on Thursday, April 1st (no foolin!). David, who wrote (among other great pieces of music) Barry Manilow's hits, "Tryin' To Get the Feeling Again" and "The Old Songs," will be singing an original song written by Gifford and David Friedman ("Listen To My Heart") in a segment called "Everyone Has a Story." Viewers send in a personal story in a 500 word or less essay. A panel of judges, including Friedman and Gifford, choose the best essays and write a brand new song inspired by each of them. The winner's story will be read on the air, after which they will be flown to New York, accompanied by one guest, and will be present in the Today Show studio when their song is performed by a Broadway singer. Next Thursday morning, that singer will be David Pomeranz. Set your TiVo. * * * * * * * In the late ‘50s, a number of vocal groups had youthful-sounding, school-type names such as Danny & the Juniors, The Four Freshmen, Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers, and The Four Preps, for example. Maybe, when they chose their names, the entertainers didn't picture themselves still performing, almost a half-century later. Some of them have done just that - including The Lettermen. The original vocal trio, formed in Los Angeles, was made up of Tony Butala, Jim Pike and Bob Engemann (Gary Pike, Jim's brother, replaced Engemann in 1968). The Lettermen name first appeared on a Vegas marquee (at the Desert Inn) in February of 1958, where Butala, Mike Barnett and Talmadge Russell performed in the record-shattering revue, Newcomers of 1928, starring Paul Whiteman, silent film comic Buster Keaton, singers Rudy Vallee and Harry Richmond, film star Fifi D'Orsay, and the sneezing comedian, Billy Gilbert. Butala played the part of Bing Crosby, who sang lead in the Rhythm Boys the vocal group that had hits and toured in the 1920's with Paul Whiteman's Orchestra. By 1960, The Lettermen - now Butala, Jim Pike (whose falsetto pre-dated Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons) and Engemann - were signed to Warner Bros. Records and released their first singles, "Their Hearts Were Full of Spring," backed with "When" and "The Magic Sound" backed with "Two Hearts." In 1961, Nic Venet, a young, creative A&R man with Capitol Records who years earlier had written a few songs with Butala, was impressed by their unique natural close harmonic blend and, convinced The Lettermen that he could produce a hit record with them, and signed them to what turned out to be a more than 25-year contract with Capitol Records. For their debut Capitol single record in the summer of 1961, Capitol Records decided to put a ballad on the B-side of "That's My Desire," their doo-wop single, figuring DJs would have to play the A-side because the B-side was so slow, and did not necessarily possess the commercial sound of the day. That B-side was "The Way You Look Tonight." The song shot to No. 13 on the Billboard chart. The group's second single that year, When I Fall In Love," did even better. The soft, slow ballad hit No. 7, establishing The Lettermen as the most romantic singing group of the sixties. Although there have been some personnel changes over the years, the tight harmonies remain unchanged. The '60s and early '70s saw The Lettermen score more than 25 chart hit singles, including "Theme From 'A Summer Place" (No. 16, 1965, from the Sandra Dee/Troy Donahue film); "Goin' Out of My Head/Can't Take My Eyes Off You" (No. 7, 1968, the first hit record ever to completely integrate two songs as one); and "Hurt So Bad" (No. 12, 1969). Their signature sound made romantic standards of songs such as "Smile," "Put Your Head On My Shoulder," "Shangri-La," "Love" and on and on. Among those 32 consecutive albums, which charted in the Top 100 in the United States, four were certified gold: The Lettermen!!!...And "Live" (1967), Goin' Out of My Head (1968), Best of The Lettermen (1969) and Hurt So Bad (1970). Donovan Tea has been a member of The Lettermen for more than 25 years, while Mark Preston joined the group in 1984. Preston departed about five years later, established a successful solo career, and then rejoined Butala and Tea a few years ago. The Lettermen open at the South Point tonight and perform 7:30 shows through Sunday night. Tickets are a very reasonable $25, $30 and $35. For show reservations, call (702) 797-8055. * * * * * * * We don't know if the pre-show interest has been overwhelming, or if it's just wishful thinking on the part of Conan O'Brien, but on the day his May 1st show at the Palms was announced, O'Brien added a second show to his standup schedule. He now plans to perform at 9 p.m. on both Saturday AND Sunday, May 1st and 2nd in the Pearl Concert Hall at the Palms. The aptly titled "Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television" tour kicks off April 12 in Eugene, Oregon, and will take Conan, and a cast that includes longtime sidekick, Andy Richter, and the former Tonight Show band, to theaters in at least 20 states and two Canadian provinces. American Express is sponsoring the tour and it promises to be a night of music, comedy, hugging and the occasional awkward silence. Tickets are $75, $100 and $150, plus taxes and additional service fees. To purchase, please contact ticketmasters at (800) 745-3000. * * * * * * * 
The Flying Karamazov Brothers 
Tony Arias 
Tim Searcy The Flying Karamazov Brothers bring their unique blend of comedy, theater, music and juggling to the 827-seat Orleans Showroom for two hi-jinx filled performances, tomorrow and Sunday, March 27th and 28th. Formed in 1973 at a Renaissance Fair in Northern California by Paul Magid and Howard Patterson, The Flying Karamazov Brothers have established themselves as all-encompassing entertainers, theater artistes, comedians, jugglers and musicians. In 1981, their first show presented in a legitimate theater was Juggling & Cheap Theatrics performed at Chicago's Goodman Theatre and at the Arena Stage in Washington D.C. This production became the beginning of what would launch the troupe from a band of street performers to renowned artists who have performed on some of the most famous stages in the world—including multiple theaters on Broadway and on London's West End, at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles and at the Carré in Amsterdam. In addition to developing, producing and performing several original productions such as Juggle and Hyde, Life: A Guide for the Perplexed and Flings and Eros, the veteran performers have taken on works of The Bard with multiple incarnations of Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors, which also was filmed for Great Performances on PBS. They have also performed with many established orchestras including The Cleveland Orchestra, Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, the San Francisco Symphony, and The Canadian National Symphony. The Flying Karamazov Brothers have appeared on several popular television programs including Seinfeld, Ellen, The Tonight Show, The Today Show and Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, and have appeared on the silver screen in The Jewel of the Nile with Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner. Collaborations with other noted musicians, actors and entertainers, include Frank Sinatra, Placido Domingo, The Grateful Dead, The Who, Dolly Parton, Robin Williams, Kenny Rogers and the Smothers Brothers. Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets are priced from $19.95, plus tax and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075, or visiting www.orleanscasino.com. * * * * * * * On Sundays at 1 p.m., beginning this weekend, you can participate in the Victorious Gospel Brunch at the Greek Isles Hotel & Casino, located at 305 Convention Center Drive. Gospel vocalists, Victorious, featuring Tony Arias, Tim Searcy and the Victorious Singers, redefine spiritual music from Sin City. Victorious inspires, uplifts and enlightens audiences while rejoicing with boundless enthusiasm and energy. Their contemporary gospel music is powerful and all about a good time. Doors to the renamed "A" Theater (formerly the Star Showroom) open at 12:30 p. m. Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday Brunch will feature a carving station, peel and eat shrimp, an omelet station, and a wide selection of traditional Brunch offerings.
Ticket prices are discounted if purchased in advance. Adult ticket in advance are $34.95, at the door, $39.95. Children under 12, in advance, $19.95; at the door, $24.95. Group discounts apply for groups of four or more, if purchased at the same time. Call (702) 952-8000 for details. The Greek Isles Hotel, located at 305 Convention Center Drive, is managed by NHH Hotels & Resorts. * * * * * * * 
Earth Hour in Vegas 2009 Tomorrow night, in honor of Earth Hour 2010, many of the bright lights of Las Vegas will go dark for one hour to show their support for the environment. Last year, millions and millions of people throughout the world took part at the same hour, on the same day, to unite and make a stand against climate change. More than 80 countries switched off their lights for Earth Hour. Las Vegas was one of the many showcase cities taking part in 2009, and will do so again at 8:30 p.m. tomorrow. Although Las Vegas will probably never be completely dark, spectators - whether driving along the normally brightly-lit Strip, or taking in the sights downtown, under the canopy of the Fremont Street Experience - will notice a big difference between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. Many of the hotel casinos and other businesses will participate by turning off marquees and other non-essential lighting for that hour.
Photo by Steve Spatafore
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Displaying keen perception and great insight.
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She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - March 19, 2010 
Santa Fe and The Fat City Horns 
Jerry Lopez 
Bruce Harper Last Monday night, we checked out what might be the best entertainment bargain in the city. If you are a music lover, AND a night owl, the Tropicana offers a deal that is hard to pass up (and, no, we don't mean Wayne Newton). At 10:30 p.m., until the Tropicana starts a remodeling project in and around the Tiffany Theater, you can see and hear Jerry Lopez's 14-piece Santa Fe and The Fat City Horns band in the room that once housed Les Folies Bergere. At midnight, when the music (mostly Latin and jazz influenced) in the big room winds down, it's big band favorites in the Celebration Lounge, a hop, skip and a jump from the Tiffany. Oh, and did we mention that all of this fine entertainment is FREE? On Monday, it was Bruce Harper's Big Band celebrating in the Celebration. The 16 musicians, many who played with Vegas showroom legends, consisted of Harper on drums, Ben Williams (upright bass); Etsuko Mader, whose husband, Rob Mader, is with Santa Fe and The Fat City Horns (keyboards); Lance Aguirre (trumpet 1); Chandler Judkins (trumpet 2) who solos; Eric Sande (trumpet 3); Merv Harding (trumpet 4) also soloing; Randy Crawford (trombone 1); Matt Johnson (trombone 2) soloing; Mike Turnbull (trombone 3), filling in for missing Dave Horger; Sonny Hernandez (trombone 4); Tom Hall (alto sax) soloist; Tony Osiecki (alto sax 2); Arno Marsh (tenor sax 1); Rick Torcaso (tenor sax 2) soloist; and Gary Anderson (baritone sax). Listening to this ensemble play some great music, made the loss of our 40 bucks on video poker a little less painful. * * * * * * * It's a sign of the times (thanks, Petula)...At the Albertsons Express on the corner of Eastern and Warm Springs, there is an electric sign stating that they have BUDWIESER on sale. It seems they need someone a bit WISER, who can look at a bottle or can of the suds to see that the correct spelling for the brew is Budweiser, not Budwieser. * * * * * * * At 2 p.m., this Sunday (March 21st), the Performing Arts Society of Nevada's Brown Bag Concerts will present A Musical Afternoon with Bruce Ewing and Joey Singer at the Clark County Library Theater, 1401 East Flamingo Road. Vocalist Ewing is a member of the stellar cast of Phantom- The Las Vegas Spectacular at The Venetian. He is also known for his run in Forever Plaid. Pianist, Singer, has accompanied and conducted for a host of celebrities, including Debbie Reynolds. The afternoon of music will include selections from Broadway, cabaret favorites and songs from the Great American Songbook. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased by calling (702) 658-6741 or e-mailing pasnv@aol.com. 
Bruce Ewing & Joey Singer 
Menopause the Musical * * * * * * * Another Suitcase in Another Hall is the name of a song from the musical, Evita. It is also the name of a show, featuring the music of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, that will also be presented on Sunday, at 7 p.m., in the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum. We know very little about this production (since no one got back to us with the requested details), other than it is presented by ragtag entertainment (who we know nothing about). A poster for Another Suitcase in Another Hall showed logos for Aspects of Love, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Sunset Blvd., Evita and Phantom of the Opera, so we think it would be fair to assume there will be songs from those Broadway musicals. As to who will sing them? We have no idea, although, if logic has anything to do with it, probably cast members of Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular will be involved. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, with all proceeds going to RagTag Entertainment's Arts in Education Program. Call (702) 798 - 5595 ext 14 for more information.
And on the same day, but at 3 p.m., Jersey Boy, Rick Faugno returns to the South Point for his fourth turn in the main showroom. Calling his show Songs My Idols Sang (And Danced), the tickets range from $20 to $30. For reservations, call (702) 797-8055. * * * * * * * We will happily go through Menopause over and over again (with or without hot flashes), IF it is in a musical format, as in Menopause the Musical, now playing at the Luxor. We attended a performance with a group of ladies on Wednesday. Two of us had seen the show before when it was at the Las Vegas Hilton, and two were newbies. We all enjoyed it equally. Using new words to familiar pop songs of the ‘60s and ‘70s (book and lyric credits go to Jeanie Linders), it's a fun romp and something women of a certain age, as well as the men in their lives, can relate to. On the evening we went, the talented cast was made up of Skye Dee Miles as the Professional Woman, Paige O'Hara as the Soap Star, Vita Corimbi as Earth Mother, and Laura Lee O'Connell as the Iowa Housewife. Sandra Benton, Lori Legacy and Annette Houlihan Verdolino rotate in and out of the clever production. What we found most interesting is the fact that the men in the audience (more than likely dragged to the theater kicking and screaming by their significant others) were laughing just as hard (sometimes more) than the women. Show times are 5:30 p.m., Wednesdays through Mondays, and 8 p.m. on Tuesdays. Tickets are $49.95 plus tax and fees. Call (702) 202-4400 for reservations. And speaking of Skye Dee Miles, look for her in the House of Blues Courtyard Restaurant, inside Mandalay Bay, when she performs as the special guest of singer, Ronnie Rose. If you enjoy Blues, Motown and Jazz, this billing should suit you just fine. Show starts at 8 p.m. 
Skye Dee Miles 
Doris Troy 
The DeCastro Sisters * * * * * * * On March 15th the 25th Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony took place in New York City. The inductees included ABBA, Genesis, Jimmy Cliff, The Hollies and The Stooges. Also inducted as individual recipients of the Ahmet Ertegun Award, were David Geffen and songwriters Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, Elle Greenwich, Jeff Barry, Jesse Stone, Mort Shuman and Otis Blackwell. Once again, there is a Las Vegas connection here. One of the big hits for The Hollies was "Just One Look," written by American R&B singer, Doris Troy, and Gregory Carroll, and sung by Troy in 1963. Doris, who died in 2004 at the age of 67, lived the last 14 years of her life in Las Vegas. According to the book Billboard Book of One-Hit Wonders, James Brown saw Troy performing in a nightclub (under her then-stage name of Doris Payne), and introduced her to Atlantic Records. In a more recent and detailed story in Soulful Divas, Payne recorded a studio demo of the song and took it to Sue Records first, but their lack of response led her to offer it to Jerry Wexler at Atlantic, where the label released the demo unchanged. The single's release was the first time the singer started using "Doris Troy" as her stage name, though her pen name remained Doris Payne. In addition to The Hollies, "Just One Look" has been covered by other artists, including Anne Murray, Harry Nilsson, Lulu and Linda Ronstadt. Doris' version was featured in a 1990s television commercial for Pepsi, that featured model Cindy Crawford. Known to her many fans as "Mama Soul," during her career, Troy worked with Solomon Burke, The Drifters, Cissy Houston, and Dionne Warwick, before she struck gold with "Just One Look." As her solo career peaked, she did back-up for the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd (on their Dark Side of the Moon album), George Harrison, Dusty Springfield and Carly Simon. Mama, I Want To Sing is a stage musical based on her life, and was co-written with her sister, Vy Higginsen, a popular New York radio personality. It ran for 1,500 performances at the Heckscher Theater at 5th Avenue and 104th Street in Harlem. Troy played her own mother. Chaka Kahn played her Aunt in the London production, as did Deniece Williams. The musical has been reinterpreted as a motion picture, with the cast including musicians Ciara and Patti LaBelle. Former Las Vegas resident, Loretta Holloway, did a short stint in the New York production of Mama, I Want To Sing, portraying Doris. * * * * * * * The last surviving member of The DeCastro Sisters, Cheri DeCastro, has died. Cheri passed away on March 14th at the age of 87. Born in New York, she was a 55-year resident of Nevada. Cheri was the middle sister of the famous Latin singing group. The group consisted of Cheri and her sisters, Peggy and Babette. They first gained attention in Cuba for their flamboyant nightclub act. The group moved to Miami in 1945, where the sisters became protégés of Brazilian singer, Carmen Miranda, who put them in the film "Copacabana." Following an introduction by Bob Hope, the DeCastro sisters performed their three-part harmony on the first live broadcast of the Los Angeles television station, KTLA. They hit the big time when their 1954 song, "Teach Me Tonight," sold more than five million copies. Over the years, the "Cuban Andrews Sisters" appeared on the Ed Sullivan and Perry Como shows. They built a library of songs including, "Boom Boom Boomerang," "Too Late Now," "Snowbound for Christmas," and "Cowboys Don't Cry." The DeCastros provided many of the bird and animal voices for Walt Disney's Song of the South, and became a popular singing act in Las Vegas nightclubs and hotels. In 1997, the trio performed on KTLA's 50th anniversary show, although Babette (who passed away in 1992) had been replaced by their cousin, Olgita DeCastro Marino. Three years later, the DeCastro sisters were inducted into the Casino Legends Hall of Fame as "Las Vegas Living Legends." Cheri DeCastro was known for her great beauty and her uncanny resemblance to Elizabeth Taylor. Cheri was preceded in death by her sisters, Peggy DeCastro Carricaburro and Babette DeCastro Cammack. Cheri is survived by her nieces, Kathy Black of Las Vegas, Jackie Karnavas of San Diego; nephew, Jimmy Carricaburro of Los Olivos, Calif.; longtime partner, Trevor Young; and several great-nieces and nephews. Services were privately held. Donations can be made to The Animal Foundation. For more information, please call (702) 384-3333.
* * * * * * * 
Brian Keith 
Jessica Marciel 
Mary Schwartz's Rascal Frank Marino will be absent from the stage of the Imperial Palace for three weeks, beginning on March 24th. It might seem too soon for him to take a vacation, since his new show, Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas, has only been up and running for five months, but this trip to China was planned prior to Divas joining the Imperial Palace family in October. While he is away riding in rickshaws, dining on noodles and visiting The Great Wall, female impersonator, Brian Keith, will be filling in for the vacationing diva. Show times are 10 p.m., Saturdays through Thursdays. Tickets are $69 and $79, plus tax and fees. Call (888) 777-7664 for reservations. Marino returns to the Imperial Palace stage on Tuesday, April 13th. * * * * * * * What is wrong with this picture...During the last week, most US citizens received their Census questionnaires in the mail. Why was it necessary to send out a notice the week before, announcing (warning?) that these forms would be arriving in the mail? How much did this cost taxpayers and who decided this was a good idea? Just wondering. * * * * * * * Longtime Las Vegas favorite, singer Jessica Marciel, has spent the last number of years teaching voice and not doing much performing...until recently. She has happily reunited with an old friend, car dealer/musician/restaurant owner, Tom Saitta. Saitta has booked Jessica in his lovely Pahrump establishment, Tommasino's Fine Italian Dining and All That Jazz!, for next Friday and Saturday, March 26th and 27th. Marciel will be joined by Mike Shane on keyboards and Saitta, himself, who sings and plays the trumpet and flugelhorn (although not at the same time). Tom loves good music, especially jazz, swing and "old standards." Tom has been in the automobile business for more than 43 years, and has owned three well-known dealerships in Las Vegas. He and his wife Alice are longtime residents of Southern Nevada, having lived in Las Vegas for many years before moving to Pahrump about seven years ago. Tom, in partnership with Don and Tamara Trudeau, own Saitta Trudeau Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge Inc., right across the street from Tommasino's. Tommasino's, which opened last summer, is located at 250 Humahuaca Street. Weekend show times start at 5:30. Among other regular performers at the restaurant/club are Joe Darro, Tommy Deering and former Four Freshmen member, Autie Goodman, who also now resides in Pahrump. For more information on the venue, call (775) 751-8221. An interesting note...Up until earlier today, another performer, who was scheduled to join Marciel, Shane and Saitta at Tommasino's next weekend, was canceled when the pretender couldn't prove to be the son of a legendary music man. This fraud claims that he is in legal entanglements with REAL family members of the late singer, and, therefore, can't market himself as "the son of..." The reason he can't market himself as "the son of..." is because he ISN‘T. There are DNA test results and a birth certificate to prove that. * * * * * * * Mary Marcella Schwartz, regular column reader and the co-creator with Barbara Ciarlantini of The Handy Girls concept, informs us that on March 3rd, she had to put her kitty, Rascal, to sleep. Rascal was down to four pounds and just fading away, so Mary wanted to end his suffering. More than 17 years ago, Mary's friend, Rochelle Hornsby, told her about Rascal being put in the shelter by his owner and convinced the animal lover to "save" him. Years back, Rochelle was a travel agent who, along with Ciarlantini, opened Wonder World Travel for Vegas pioneer businessman, Herb Kaufman. Rochelle's former husband, Len Hornsby, was the Director of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for eight years in the early days. Here's an upbeat pet story. Artiste extraordinary, and relatively new Las Vegan, Marty Kreloff, wants readers to see his newest family member, Ampersand James Louise Kreloff. Like some of the earlier four-legged members of the household, two-year-old Ampersand follows in the white cat tradition of Sondheim and Truman. Marty, and partner Tim Olsen, give thanks to Carol Fox and Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions for bringing this beautiful boy into their lives and home, where he will be loved and spoiled beyond his wildest dreams. Ampersand will help to fill the empty space left by the loss of Truman in December. We like these "happy ending" tales. 
Martin Kreloff's Ampersand 
Artie Schroeck 
Bart Williams And for those that don't know what an Ampersand is, it's one of these, &. And, for those who do (and you know who you are), those handy little symbols are not to be used in place of the WORD "and." The & is used when it is part of a company or some musical group's formal name, as in Proctor & Gamble and m&m‘s, or Sly & The Family Stone and Sonny & Cher, for example. * * * * * * * From musician Gary Anderson comes this alert...
"I received a very last minute booking for this Saturday, March 20th, at the E-String Grill," says Grammy-winning Anderson. "I have put together a very special homage to one of my personal heroes, Stan Getz." The World of Stan Getz will be presented by an incredible line-up of musicians - Artie Schroeck on vibes, Mark Speights on guitars, Steve Flora on bass, John Plows on drums, and Anderson himself on tenor sax. Gary promises a very special guest vocalist with an Astrud Gilberto sound. "Stan Getz's career in jazz spanned six decades and was extremely eclectic and ever evolving, states Anderson. "With that in mind, the music being performed on Saturday will range from bop to ballads to bossa nova!" The E-String, which we have been told has great food, is located at 2031 W. Sunset, near Mountain Vista. Gary Anderson and cronies will play from 2 to 5 p.m. A $10 donation for the band is requested. For more information, call (702) 437-8764. * * * * * * * The Lawrence Welk Resorts in Escondido, California, is presenting The Pirates of Penzance, through May 2nd. The timeless classic Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera is a hilarious and frenetic romp featuring swashbuckling, handsome pirates, beautiful maidens and bumbling Keystone Cops. This production is directed by Ray Limon, and features Richard Bermudez, Karenssa LeGear, Randall Dodge, Sue Goodman and Bart Williams. As we have mentioned before (and will probably do so again), Williams performed in numerous Vegas productions, including Anything Goes, A Funny Thing Happened On the Way To the Forum, Top Banana and Guys and Dolls. At the Welk, you can enjoy a delicious buffet brunch including lunch and breakfast items. Brunch buffet begins at 10:30 a.m., with seating for the show at 12:45 p.m. for a 1 p.m. curtain. Show times are at 1 p.m. Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays. The Welk Theatre is located at 8869 Lawrence Welk Drive. Tickets are $44-$47 for show only and $58-$63 for show and buffet (brunch or dinner). For info, call (760) 749-3448. This is a new format this year, so please note the show time change to 1 p.m. * * * * * * * 
Mandy Patinkin 
Steve Tyrell 
Kelly McDonald Mandy Patinkin (Broadway; Sunday In the Park with George, Evita, The Secret Garden; Film: Yentl, Dick Tracy; TV: Chicago Hope, Criminal Minds) performs a very special benefit concert - Mandy Patinkin: Dress Casual, with Paul Ford on piano, at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 27th in the intimate Judy Bayley Theatre to support the Nevada Conservatory Theatre at UNLV and Theatre of the Emerging American Moment (TEAM). TEAM is a New York-based collaborative ensemble dedicated to creating new plays that dissect and celebrate the experience of living in America today. The TEAM's newest work-in-progress, Mission Drift, will use the history and mythology of the Frontier to examine the particular nature of American capitalism. In June, the TEAM will be in residence at UNLV to learn as much as possible about Las Vegas' past and present first-hand from people living and working in the city as they develop this new work. Tickets are $125 or VIP $200, which includes preferred seating and a reception with Mr. Patinkin following the show. For reservations, call 895-ARTS (2787) or visit pac.unlv.edu.
* * * * * * * Steve Tyrell will make return visits to the Golden Nugget, Tuesday, April 13th, through Friday, the 16th, and again the following week, Tuesday, April 20th, through Saturday, the 24th. It appears that the singer is a personal favorite of the Nugget owners. Ours too. We will have more details on this in upcoming weeks. * * * * * * * Michael Chapman and ChapQuist Entertainment brings comic Kelly McDonald back to the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin, Saturday, March 27th at 7 p.m. McDonald is a performer who personifies "classy" humor. In a business filled with "shock comics" who rely on material of questionable taste, Kelly remains a refreshing exception. He proves it's possible to create humor without taking cheap shots for easy laughs. Last year, Kelly entertained to a sold-out crowd when he split the bill with Chapman, after finding out at the "last minute" that they had to go on due to the illness of a previously scheduled performer. Kelly has presented his critically acclaimed stand-up comedy act at major showrooms, comedy clubs and casinos worldwide. He's had numerous TV appearances including A&E's Evening at The Improv, The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. You won't want to miss this evening of ridiculously clean, hilarious funny comedy with Kelly McDonald. Tickets are $15 for Sun City Summerlin residents and $17 for non-residents. To order tickets by credit card, call (702) 869-2064. For up-to-date information on Starbright Theatre shows, call (702) 240-1301. * * * * * * *  Kathie Spehar  Eddie Money & John Waite  Pamela Anderson As you may or may not know, the Eastside Cannery recently launched a new showroom. For some reason, when the property opened about a year-and-a-half ago, it was without a showroom. Marilyn's Lounge is very nice, but it isn't a showroom. Frankly, Cousin Claire was quite surprised, and disappointed. Entertainment is such an important part of the sister property in North Las Vegas, and attracts lots of people who may not go there for any other reason, we had to wonder why they wouldn't carry over the idea for those potential customers who live in southeast Las Vegas, including Henderson/Green Valley and Boulder City. It seems that Marty Gross, the property's vice president and general manager, decided that the new location needed another attraction, a big concert venue, similar to The Cannery in North Las Vegas. The Eastside's new entertainment venue is actually a space that was originally a ballroom. Although Kathie Spehar, entertainment director for Cannery Casino Resorts, did book a few things in the ballroom, she acknowledged that the sound was terrible. Spehar, who knows her business when it comes to entertainment, said things echoed off the walls, so they stopped trying to make something unworkable, work. They closed the space and went to work, acoustically changing the room, "and now we have essentially a brand-new venue that's absolutely fantastic," says Spehar. The newly refurbished space is now called the Casablanca Event Center and seats 1,000 people. It had a low-key opening on New Year's Eve when it hosted Blood, Sweat and Tears. This was the test, giving the powers that be (who ARE these folks?) a chance to see how everything worked and sounded. Spehar was very pleased with the results. Since the big change, the Eastside Cannery‘s Casablanca Event Center has had Grammy-winner LeAnn Rimes who performed on January 29th and The Commodores on February 27th. At this point, the plan is to host one concert a month. The March show takes place tomorrow night, with Eddie Money and John Waite in the spotlight. April 10th, Jenni Rivera performs, while Ronnie Milsap comes in on May 15th. An ABBA tribute show is booked for June 27th. ABBA the Music starts at 7 p.m., while the three other shows start at 8. With a combined 22 albums between Money and Waite, the two icons are responsible for some of the biggest hits in the 1970s and ‘80s. Born Edward Joseph Mahoney, Money first began a career in law enforcement in his native New York before becoming a musician. After moving to California, he changed his moniker to Eddie Money and signed with Columbia Records. He released his debut album, Eddie Money, in 1977, which included two Top 40 hits, "Baby Hold On" and "Two Tickets to Paradise." He released four more albums between 1978 and 1983, creating singles "Think I'm In Love," "Take a Little Bit," and "Shakin." In 1986, Money had his biggest hit with "Take Me Home Tonight," featuring Ronnie Spector. The song reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, and the album went platinum. Recently, Money has been the inspiration and star for "Two Tickets to Paradise – The Musical." The original play is based on Money's real life story, following him and his working class family as he pursues his dream of becoming a rock star. British-born John Waite first came to attention as the lead singer and bassist of the band, The Babys, then launched his solo career in 1982 with the single "Change." His second album, No Brakes, made him an international superstar, thanks to the power ballad, "Missing You," which rocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart and Album Rock Tracks, as well as the Top 10 Adult Contemporary chart. No Brakes sold more than a million and a half copies and also generated the Top 10 Mainstream Rock hit, "Tears." Waite formed the rock super group Bad English with former members of The Babys and Journey in 1988 and again attained No. 1 status with the Gold-certified ballad "When I See You Smile." Bad English sold more than two million copies of their debut album and released two more records before disbanding in 1992. Waite continued on his solo work and produced five albums, including his latest, Downtown...Journey of a Heart. In 2006, Waite re-released "Missing You" as a duet with Alison Krauss and reached the Top 40 again, this time on the Country charts. Tickets range from $59 to $79, and are available by calling (702) 856-5470, visiting www.eastsidecannery.com, or going to Eastside Cannery's sales counter at the front desk. The property is located at 5255 Boulder Highway. * * * * * * * We don't know WHY, but what we DO know is that, on Tuesday, the Viva Elvis show at City Center's Aria, was canceled shortly after it started. Audience member were told there would be a five-minute delay, then said it would be another 15 minutes, and then said there would be no show that night. We don‘t know where "Elvis" was Tuesday night, but the audience left the building (or at least the showroom). * * * * * * * We found it quite interesting to read that Andrew Dice Clay has a "problem" with the fact that actor Jason Alexander calls his one-man-show character, "Donny Clay." If the "Dice Man" is looking for publicity, jumping on Alexander isn't the best way to get it. In the past few years, the legendary "Bad Boy of Comedy" has performed in a number of different venues around the city, including at the Wyrick, Riviera, Palazzo, and Luxor, among others. Since he seems so set on playing Vegas, we feel he would be smarter to use sugar instead of vinegar to get attention. We would suggest Mr. Andrew Clay get involved with some legit local charities and endear himself to the community. Save that "bad boy" image for the showroom and be a mench off stage. Dice recently signed a long-term contract with the Las Vegas Hilton. He is scheduled to perform a minimum of 28 weeks, with 11 p.m. show times in the casino's 350-seat Shimmer Showroom. The first time we saw Dice perform, it was at the Dunes in Mitzi Shore's (former wife of Sammy Shore, mother of Pauly Shore) Las Vegas branch of the Comedy Store. Following a couple of clean, family-appropriate comics, Clay had the Dunes audience in shock when he took to the stage of the showroom. About his new deal with the Paradise Road property, Dice commented, "The Hilton is known for having the Kings of Entertainment. Elvis, The King of Rock ‘n' Roll, and a who's who of the world's top entertainers. And now, says the humble and modest Clay, they have me, The Undisputed Heavyweight Comedy King." Dice added, "I've done the Elvis showroom before, but now I've made the decision to make Vegas a more permanent gig, the Shimmer Room is the perfect place to be." In closing, Dice remarked, "Don't forget that The Hilton is an institution. And let's face it...anyone who has heard my act knows that an institution is exactly where I belong." Andrew Dice Clay has made a career out of being the most outrageous and dangerous comic of his time. He has shocked audiences and broke the rules with a never before seen style of hardcore comedy which has never been equaled to this day. His rise to fame has been called meteoric and unparalleled with countless sold-out arena tours across the country including multiple nights at Madison Square Garden, multi gold & platinum selling albums, starring roles in films including the cult classic The Adventures of Ford Fairlane, and countless TV specials. And who could forget the Diceman's "lifetime ban" from MTV because of his "profane language and offensive jokes" at the Video Music Awards? When he released his debut album, called Dice, the parental label dispensed with its usual statement and simply stated, "Warning: This album is offensive." Therefore, it is fair to say, Andrew Dice Clay is proud to be America's most controversial comic of all time. Once again, he promises audiences and the Hilton that he will put the SIN back in the City. General admission tickets are $49.99, Premium tickets are $69.99 and tickets in the ‘Dice Pit' are $99.99, which include seating in the front of the room plus a limited edition T-shirt. All ticket prices exclude tax and fees and can be purchased at the Las Vegas Hilton box office or by logging onto www.lvhilton.com, www.vegas.com, www.ticketmaster.com, or phoning (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361. * * * * * * * Dancing with the Stars launches its 10th season on Monday, March 22nd. Cast members include, The Bachelor‘s Jake Pavelka, Pamela Anderson, Kate Gosselin, NFL star Chad Ochocinco, soap star Aiden Turner, ESPN's Erin Andrews, actress Shannen Doherty, former astronaut Buzz Aldrin, comedian and The Insider regular Niecy Nash, Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger, and Olympic gold medalist Evan Lysacek. There is always at least one competitor with a Las Vegas connection. This time, it's Pamela Anderson . Remember when she co-starred with magician Hans Klok in The Beauty of Magic show at Planet Hollywood? Neither do we. * * * * * * * 
Feeney, Wall & Rat Pack Cast Producer Dick Feeney reports that Breck Wall, the creator with the late Patrick May, of Bottoms Up, was a recent visitor to the Plaza to catch Feeney's Rat Pack Is Back show. With his snow white hair, Wall looks quite different than he did during his days on stage. Wall joined cast members for a photo. Shown, from left to right, Mark Cohen as "Joey," Robbie Howard as "Frank," Wall, Feeney, Bobby Mayo Jr. as "Dean," and Kyle Diamond as "Sammy."
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Tags: Santa Fe The Fat City Horns Jerry Lopez Bruce Harper Joey Singer Menopause
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - March 12, 2010 
Lee Roy Reams as Roger DeBris 
Bill Nolte as Franz Liebkind 
Kelsey Grammer Where do they go from here? Following a stint or two (or more) on a Las Vegas stage, where do the actor/performers go and what do they do after they leave here? Many return to New York or California or wherever they may have come from. Here are what a few of these talented folks are doing...
From The Producers, Lee Roy Reams, who played "Roger DeBris" in the Mel Brooks musical romp at Paris Las Vegas (the theater is now being occupied by Barry Manilow), is off sailing on the Regent Navigator, thanks to his association with the Theatre Guild. Reams is a favorite of the passengers and crew, as are the talented people he takes with him. For this particular journey at sea, through March 19th, Lee Roy is accompanied by fellow entertainers Carol Channing, Carol Lawrence, Ed Asner, Karen Mason, Susan Powell and Richard White. Tommy Tune's musical directors, Michael Biagi and Bobby Hirshhorn, are also part of the ensemble. Poor Patricia Neal, who was scheduled to be part of the group, took a fall while visiting her daughter Lucy in Los Angels, and fractured her pelvic bone, meaning that instead of cruising, Patricia is in rehabilitation. And our friend, actor/singer Bill Nolte, returns to Broadway on April 6th, when previews for La Cage aux Folles begin at the Longacre Theatre. Nolte, who played "Franz Liebkind" in the Vegas version of The Producers, will be doing the role of "Tabarro" and understudying "Georges" and "Dindon." Kelsey Grammer will star as "Georges," and making his Broadway debut, is Douglas Hodge who will portray "Albin/ZaZa." Christine Andreas, who appeared at the Charleston Heights Arts Center with her husband/accompanist, Martin Silvestri, in November of 2006, will play "Jacqueline." La Cage aux Folles originally opened on Broadway at the Palace Theatre in 1983. Gene Barry starred as "Georges," with George Hearn as "Albin." The Jerry Herman musical, with book by Harvey Fierstein, racked up numerous Tony Awards during its little more than four year run. During that period, some of the other performers who appeared in La Cage during its original Broadway run were Van Johnson, Hollywood Squares host, Peter Marshall, and our friend, the above mentioned Lee Roy Reams. In 2004, the show was revived at the Marquis Theatre, with Daniel Davis as "Georges" and Gary Beach as "Albin." In April of 2005, Las Vegas resident, the late Robert Goulet, took over the role of "Georges" until the show closed in June of that year. It might be noted that Jerry Mitchell, of Planet Hollywood's Peepshow fame, was the choreographer of the 2004 La Cage revival. In 1996, The Birdcage, a film based on La Cage aux Folles, was released. The movie starred Robin Williams and Nathan Lane in the lead roles. 
Christine Andreas 
Larry Raben & Leigh Zimmerman, The Producers 
Erich Bergen Then there is Larry Raben, who portrayed "Leo Bloom" in both the Broadway and Vegas productions of the very same multi-Tony Award-winning show mentioned above. From March 16th through the 28th, the 2009-2010 season of Reprise Theatre Company presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum at UCLA's Freud Playhouse. This version of the 1962 Tony-Award-winning Best Musical stars Tony-Award-nominee Lee Wilkof, who originated the part of "Seymour" in Little Shop of Horrors, and Raben, one of the original cast members of Forever Plaid (he can be seen in the 20th Anniversary film special) and also starred off-Broadway and in Los Angeles in I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change. The Reprise production of Forum, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and book by the late Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, also features Erich Bergen in the role of "Hero." Until last September, Bergen was playing "Bob Gaudio" in the Vegas production of Jersey Boys. Since its inception in 1997, Reprise Theatre Company has been a focus of the Los Angeles musical theater community, producing productions of great American musicals, and a wide variety of concerts, staged-readings, special events and outreach programs. In May of 2007, Jason Alexander, who has been performing his Donny Clay Experience at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, became Reprise's Artistic Director. Since its inaugural production of Burt Bacharach and Hal David's Promises, Promises, which starred Mr. Alexander, Reprise has brought to the stage vibrant productions from all eras of American musical theater, including Of Thee I Sing, Strike Up the Band, Anything Goes, The Boys from Syracuse, Babes in Arms, and No Strings. The "Golden Era" has been well represented, with Carousel, Finian's Rainbow, Brigadoon, On the Town, Wonderful Town, Call Me Madam, Kismet, The Pajama Game, Damn Yankees, Li'l Abner, Bells are Ringing and The Most Happy Fella. Musical theatre reached a new peak of popularity in the sixties, and Reprise has presented many of them, including She Loves Me, Hair, 1776, Applause, Pippin, On the Twentieth Century, City of Angels, Mack and Mabel, Company, Sweeney Todd, and Sunday in the Park with George. Many of the great Broadway stage performers working today, as well as those who reside primarily in Los Angeles, have appeared in Reprise shows. Among them, Scott Bakula, Christine Baranski, Brent Barrett (former star of Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular), Orson Bean, Jodi Benson, Len Cariou, Vikki Carr, Kelsey Grammer, Sam Harris, Gregory Harrison, Mimi Hines, Jane Krakowski, Judith Light, Rebecca Luker, Maureen McGovern, Donna McKechnie, Andrea Marcovicci, Karen Morrow, David Hyde Pierce, Charles Nelson Reilly, Cathy Rigby, Rex Smith, Marisa Jaret Winokur, and Rachel York. Single tickets are available for Forum online at www.reprise.org, or through the UCLA Central Ticket Office at (310) 825-2101. Karole Foreman, who portrayed "Tanya" in Mamma Mia! at Mandalay Bay, is performing in My Way - A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra, playing at The Cosmopolitan Cabaret, 1000 K Street (at 10th Street) in Sacramento, through May 9th. My Way was conceived by David Grapes and Todd Olson, with book by Olson. The production is directed by Glenn Casale, with musical direction by Chris Schlagel. Starring with Foreman are Michael G. Hawkins, Laura Dickinson and Jeffrey Christopher Todd. Frank Sinatra. He's the icon of cool - from classic elegance to contemporary "fedora" hipster. These four accomplished vocalists will take you from the 1940s swing era, to the bright lights of Las Vegas with the Rat Pack in the 1960s, and to Ol' Blue Eyes final performances in the 1990s. As Stephen Holden wrote for the 1983 Rolling Stone Record Guide: "Frank Sinatra's voice is pop music history." Among the 58 songs made famous by Sinatra are "Strangers in the Night," "That Old Black Magic," "New York, New York," "I've Got You Under My Skin," "High Hopes," "Fly Me to the Moon, " "It Was a Very Good Year," and, of course, "My Way." Ms. Foreman is happy to return to the California Musical Theatre family. Last summer she appeared as "Muzzy" in Thoroughly Modern Millie. Other shows: Parade at the Mark Taper, South Bay City CLO's Jesus Christ Superstar ("Mary Magdalene"), Hangin' Out, The Good Body and Norman's Ark. Other shows: Josephine Tonight ("Josephine Baker"), and Jelly's Last Jam ("Anita," Suzi Bass Award). Other theaters: Denver Center, Alliance Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Portland Center Stage, Mark Taper, San Jose Rep, AMT of San Jose, Northshore Music Theatre, Goodspeed Opera House and Pasadena Playhouse. On TV, Karole has appeared on Medium, Third Watch, Law & Order, Strong Medicine, The Bold and the Beautiful, and Becker. She has also done numerous commercials. Karole has won the Garland Award for As Bees in Honey Drown and numerous DramaLogue Awards. Writing honors include the Richard Rodgers' Award, a Jonathan Larson Foundation Grant and an Edgerton Foundation Grant for her musical The Princess and the Black-Eyed Pea. As part of its SuperNova event, San Diego's Vox Nova Theatre presented a staged reading of Karole's new musical, The Venus Hottentot's Extreme Makeover, with music by Ruff Yeager. This dynamic new work has been selected from more than 200 entries as one of six new musicals to be featured at the high-profile musical theatre showcase, directed by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell, Pippin). The Venus Hottentot's Extreme Makeover tracks the journeys of Saartjie, an African woman who is brought to Europe during the mid-1800s and presented as a side-show attraction, and Sara, a contemporary African-American woman grappling with society's often confusing standards of physical beauty and perfection. During this odyssey, Sara discovers that each of us must define beauty for ourselves and hold that definition deep in our hearts, regardless of society's pressures. Vox Nova Theatre Company is dedicated to the discovery, development, and presentation of new American plays. The playwrights involved are in residence during the rehearsal and performance process to hone, change, and develop their work in a safe and nurturing environment that promotes creativity, experimentation, and exploration. Playwrights participate in discussion sessions immediately following the reading of their new work to gain insight from the fresh eyes of the audience. Vox Nova Theatre Company is unique to San Diego in its singular focus on the development of new work and new voices in American Theatre. Single-show tickets are available at the Wells Fargo Pavilion Box Office, 1419 H Street, by phone at (916) 557-1999 or two hours before curtain at The Cosmopolitan Cabaret box office, 1000 K Street. $33-$43, or online at tickets.com (additional online fees apply). For group discounts (12 to 200), call (916) 557-1198. Also, enjoy the special Sinatra-themed menu at Cosmo Café. Left to right in accompanying Charr Crail photo: Laura, Jeffrey, Michael and Karole. 
My Way - A Musical Tribute To Frank Sinatra 
Glenn Casale 
Brent Barrett And speaking of Glenn Casale, for those who do not know, Glenn received his masters degree from UNLV, where he is currently the Theater Department's Head of Directing. He spends some of his time away from Nevada, directing around the country. Among the performers he has worked with are (in alphabetical order) Adrienne Barbeau, Brent Barrett, Meredith Baxter, Theodore Bikel, Carol Burnett, Patrick Cassidy, George Clooney, Tyne Daly, Tony Danza, Charles Durning, Jason Graae, Mark Harmon, Gina Hecht, Cathy Rigby, Leslie Uggams and Rachel York. On Broadway and in touring companies, Casale has directed many productions, including Camelot, Company, Godspell, Peter Pan and Queen of the Stardust Ballroom to name just a handful. * * * * * * * 
Jason Graae 
Connie Francis 
Jeneane Marie We may be the first to announce this interesting upcoming booking at the Las Vegas Hilton. From May 21st through the 23rd, the 1500-seat Hilton Theater will present Eric Floyd's Grand Divas of Stage, co-starring Connie Francis and Dionne Warwick. The two legendary performers have never worked together, although they share the same birth date, December 12th (Connie in 1938 and Dionne in 1940), and attended the same New Jersey high school. It might be interesting to note that both Frank Sinatra and Joe Williams were also born on December 12th, Frank in 1915 and Joe in 1918. We will have more on the Hilton show in upcoming weeks. * * * * * * * Brassy, broad, Jeneane Marie, sings at BB King's Blues Club inside The Mirage, Monday, March 15th from 8 to 11:30 p.m. Jeneane has performed at many notable venues throughout the country and appeared with numerous prominent entertainers including George Carlin, Bill Cosby, Liberace, Rich Little, Don Rickles, Jerry Lewis, Mel Torme, Wayne Newton and Frank Sinatra. Featured in 120 jingles, radio spots and commercials, Jeneane continues to show the versatility of her voice, covering the bases from romantic ballads to standards, pop and Top 40. Check out this explosive performer. * * * * * * * If you have missed Conan O'Brien since he left the tube on January 22nd, NBC's former Tonight Show host will be performing at the Palms' Pearl on May 1st. The Vegas stop will be part of a two month tour around the country for O'Brien and his longtime TV sidekick, Andy Richter. Tickets start at $75 and are available through ticketmaster. 
Conan O'Brien 
Matthew Gray Gubler 
Carole Hassell * * * * * * * Happy birthday to actor, director and former fashion model (Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs), Matthew Gray Gubler who turned 30 on March 9th. Gubler, who plays "Dr. Spencer Reid" on the CBS television series, Criminal Minds, is a Las Vegas native. Matthew attended The Meadows school (Carolyn Goodman, the wife of Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, is the President/Founder and Trustee Emeritus of the private college preparatory school), and is a graduate of the award-winning Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing and Visual Arts high school. Not only was Matthew born here, so were his parents. His mother, Marilyn Gubler, was the first woman to serve as Republican state Chairman, while his maternal grandfather, Maxwell Kelch, was the first president of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, and Maxwell and his wife, Laura Belle Kelch, were the founders of Las Vegas' first radio station, KENO. Also, a great big happy milestone (we won't say which stone) birthday to an almost Las Vegas native, Carole Hassell, who celebrates her special day today, March 12th. * * * * * * * 
UNLV Jazz Ensemble I On Sunday, at 2 p.m., the UNLV Dept. of Music presents a Jazz Concert, featuring Jazz Ensemble I in the Judy Bayley Theater. You won't want to miss hearing these outstanding jazz ensembles under the direction of Dave Loeb and Nathan Tanouye. Jazz Ensemble I was one of only six college ensembles selected to perform in the Monterey Generation Jazz Festival next month. Community attendance and support for these fine young musicians means so much as they prepare for this festival and perform for you this weekend. Tickets are $10 general admission for adults and $8 for seniors. Students with photo ID are admitted free. For additional information, call the UNLV Performing Arts Center at (702) 895-ARTS. * * * * * * * As we have said, and written, numerous times, when a member of the Las Vegas entertainment community is in trouble, health wise or otherwise, their peers get together to do what they can to help. For those that doubt that this is a city with a heart, they weren't among the close to 500 people who paid between $25 and $45 to be in the audience when musician Bill Fayne was honored in a show in the Suncoast Showroom last Saturday afternoon. Lending their talents to the star-filled afternoon, produced by Ed Mathews, were Domenick Allen, who sang an original song featuring Billy Joel tunes and special Billy Fayne lyrics (Domenick also directed); Louie Anderson (who was running a little late because he went to the South Point instead of the Suncoast); Susan Anton; Pete Barbutti; magician Lance Burton, who proved to be quite funny; nine-year old singer, Cayleigh Capaldi; the ladies of Dangerous Curves, Margaret "Gret" Menzies, Karen Merstik-Michaels, Lisa Smith, plus Lori Simpson; America's Got Talent-winner/Mirage headliner, Terry Fator; Jersey Boy Rick Faugno; Fifth Avenue's Jeff Celentano, Rob Hyatt, Jerry Jones, Bryce Robinson; Mark Giovi, plus his "special guests," Olivia Giovi (5) and Justus Giovi (3); Michelle Johnson; Las Vegas Tenors, Bobby Black, Chris Coyle, Teddy Davey; Robin Leach; Jerry Lopez with Tony Davich and Jamie Hosmer; from Menopause the Musical, Sandra Benton, Vita Corimbi, Skye Dee Miles; Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons tribute artists from Oh What a Night, Brandon Albright, Paul Holmquist, Michael Jacobs, George Solomon; Louie Prima's daughter, Lena Prima; from the musical Scinta family, Frankie Scinta; Gayle Steele; Voci Vegas members George DeMott, Cody Guy, Molly Tennant; and Tina Walsh. The musicians included Brian Czach & The Zack Attack, made up of Brian Czack on drums, Jozef Bobula on bass, Carlos Guerrero on guitar, Jason Holcomb on trombone, Lance Phelps on trumpet (2), Charly Raymond on trumpet (1), Joe Spraker on piano, Tommy Steele on tenor sax, and Phil Wigfall on alto sax; Mike Clark, Vince Falcone, Ned Mills, Jeff Neiman, and Keith Thompson. In the full-stage finale, we spotted Early Clover, John Garofolo, Carmine Mandia, Michelle Rohl, Ronnie Rose, Paul Stubblefield, and the Swing City Dolls - Natalie Carson, Connie Murray and Robin Vincent. Anticipated to participate, but missing, due to scheduling conflicts, were Leigh Zimmerman (playing chauffer to daughter, Cayleigh, who had another engagement); Human Nature; Paul Casey (Elvis); Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show and Paul Casey. There was only one (well, maybe more than one) sour note hit (ouch) during the almost three hour show. It (or they) came from the same person, during the grand finale. With a stage full of talented people, this was as obvious as a cat in a dog show. No need to name names. Anyone who was in the Suncoast showroom, and has even average hearing and an ear for real music, knows who we are talking about. And, as long as we are voicing opinions (which we do on occasion), we think that the talented singer, impressionist, puppeteer, Terry Fator chose the wrong dummy and the wrong material for the afternoon event. He is a relative newcomer to Las Vegas (celebrating his one year anniversary at The Mirage this month), so perhaps he didn't realize that the usual customers at the Suncoast are older, retired folks. We think that Fator would have been better served if he had brought along Winston the Turtle, Emma Taylor, or Johnny Vegas, rather than an "annoying, druggie neighbor." He would have won the audience over more, had he sung in his Garth Brooks, Etta James, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole or Louis Armstrong voices. Consider it an opportunity missed. Oh, and did we mention that the Man of the Hour, Bill Fayne, sang "Here's To Life" at the end of the program? He couldn't have chosen a better song to end the afternoon. And Here's To Life. (If we missed any names, sue us.) 
Bill Fayne by John Katsilometes 
Bill Fayne Tribute Finale by Ed Foster Bill Fayne in cap photo by John Katsilometes
Other Fayne tribute photos by Ed Foster * * * * * * * As for last Sunday night's 82nd Oscar show, yes that was Las Vegan, Bob Kaz, you saw during the broadcast. No, he wasn't nominated for an award, and he wasn't showing off his designer tuxedo. What he WAS doing was a commercial spot for Channel 13's consumer help department. Another Vegas connection to the Oscar telecast was fashion designer, Randolph Duke. It may surprise some to know that Mr. Duke, who worked the red carpet, was born and raised here. Randolph's mother, Dagny "Dee" Garner, was a showgirl in the Tropicana's long- running production, Les Folies Bergere. Randolph's father, George Duke, was an Air Force sergeant. Three years after Dee and George divorced, Randolph's mother married John Garner, a casino card dealer and floor manager. Duke, a gifted classical pianist, attended UNLV on a music scholarship. During the summer, he decided to make some extra money by joining his mother and becoming a dancer in the Folies Bergère. Not surprisingly, being surrounded by feathers, rhinestones, top hats, G-strings and wildly dramatic costumes had a powerful impact on young Randolph. When he returned to school in the fall, Duke joined the theater department and began creating costumes for school productions. After dropping out in 1978, he moved to Los Angeles to attend the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, graduating with honors in 1980. He quickly landed a job designing swimwear for Anne Cole. In 1987, Duke moved to New York City where he launched his own Randolph Duke line and opened a Manhattan boutique. 
Randolph Duke 
Royal Irish Showband Members & Friends 
Dennis DeYoung from Styx * * * * * * * Faith and begorrah, St. Paddy's Day is almost upon us. In keeping in the spirit of the holiday, The Irish Affair, made up of Jimmy Conway on guitar and vocals; Michael Keane on keyboards; D.J. Curtin on vocals; and Mickey O'Neill on drums - will be playing in The Orchid Lounge at Mandalay Bay on St. Paddy's night, March 17th, starting at 7 p.m. All of the Irish Affair musicians are former-members of Brendan Bowyer's Royal Irish Showband. For those who weren't around in the '70s, the Showband (a favorite of the late entertainment writer, Joe Delaney) headlined Las Vegas lounges up and down the Strip, including the Stardust (now the inner workings of the anticipated Echelon), The Aladdin (now buried somewhere under Planet Hollywood), and the Barbary Coast (now known as Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon). Wear something green and head to Mandalay Bay on Wednesday. Seen in accompanying photo, from last St. Paddy's Day, are (left to right) Tom Bourke, Keane, O'Neill, Mary Clifford, Conway and Curtin). * * * * * * * Bobby Arlin, 69, passed away on February 4th in Las Vegas. He was born March 7, 1940, in Petaluma, California, and moved to Pahrump six years ago from Las Vegas. He was formerly with the band "The Leaves," in 1966, among others, and had the Hit Record "Hey Joe." Bobby was a booking agent in Las Vegas for 13 years. He loved guitar, classic cars, fishing and art. Bobby is survived by his wife, Sheila Arlin, whom he married in 1993; cousin, Marc Rosen; and his German Shepherd, Chance. Services are pending. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the people of Haiti or the SPCA. * * * * * * * Dennis DeYoung, former singer and songwriter of the Chicago-based rock group Styx who celebrated his 63rd birthday on February 18th, will perform in shows at the 827-seat theater-style Orleans Showroom, Saturday and Sunday, March 13th and 14th at 8 p.m. DeYoung, performing with his five-piece band, will produce a unique rock experience with a new power, feeling and edge to such classics as "Lady," "Babe," "Come Sail Away," "Mr. Roboto," and "Don't Let It End," along with solo works and new music. DeYoung was only 14-years-old when he and his brothers founded Styx in 1962 in the basement of their Chicago childhood home. Selling more than 35 million albums worldwide, DeYoung has written eight of Styx's top 10 singles. For more than four decades, Dennis has been a successful singer, songwriter, keyboardist and record producer. Recording seven solo albums, including Desert Moon, whose title track achieved Top 10 status, DeYoung and his band continue to tour around the world. In recent years, his songs have appeared in movies and television shows, including Sofia Coppola's Virgin Suicides, Adam Sandler's Big Daddy and 8 Crazy Nights, DreamWork's Old School starring Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn, Comedy Central's South Park, ABC's Still Standing and CBS' The King of Queens. Tickets are available now and are priced from $19.95, plus tax. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075 or visiting www.orleanscasino.com.
While over at the Suncoast, on the same days, Clint Holmes brings his powerful voice and magnetic stage presence back to the showroom, tomorrow and Sunday. Holmes' fans know him as more than just a singer. He's famous for making every performance an original and captivating audiences with his charisma and signature style. Among his many recordings is the Top 10 smash hit "Playground In My Mind (My Name Is Michael)." His album Edges produced many other standout songs, including "Feel Like Makin' Love," the romantic "Shouldn't It Be Easy By Now," the playful "Gotta Get Up" and the thought-provoking "Let My Son See Africa." With a long history of entertaining audiences in Las Vegas, Clint is known for his six-year run in at Harrah's. Named Las Vegas' "Best Singer" for four times and "Entertainer of the Year" three times by readers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Holmes' fame stretches far beyond Southern Nevada. He was also Atlantic City's "Entertainer of the Year" three times, and starred in Clint Holmes' Sophisticated Rhythms, a dynamic stage show that traveled through music from the 1940s to the present. His 1996 critically acclaimed musical Comfortable Shoes, which opened in New Jersey and also had a run in Chicago, was a poignant and uplifting journey into Holmes' interracial family's struggle to find its identity. In 2002, an updated version of the musical opened at The Royal George Theatre in Chicago. Among the show's rave reviews, the Chicago Tribune called it "a night of fully realized theatrical entertainment." Holmes partners with long-time friends and entertainers, Susan Anton, Domenick Allen and Martin Nievera, for a showcase of solo performances, duets and group numbers as the wildly popular Vocal Soup. In a career that began with an invitation from Joan Rivers to be her sidekick and announcer on The Late Show, Clint Holmes has proven himself as a well-respected entertainer, even earning the honor of being the featured performer at the Democratic National Convention on the evening of Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential nomination. Also familiar to fans' ears, Holmes was the voice of Lowenbrau Beer for four years. Tickets are now available starting from $29.95, plus tax. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 636-7075, or by visiting www.suncoastcasino.com. 
Clint Holmes by Jerry Metellus 
Andy Bumatai 
Thalia Dondero * * * * * * * It's the Crackseeds of Comedy - Mel Cabang, Andy Bumatai, Paul Ogata, and Kathy Tanaka - at the Silverton Casino Lodge Events Center, tomorrow night, March 13th at 8. Between February 10th and March 6th, Bumatai was special guest with Society of Seven Las Vegas. Oddly, Society of Seven Las Vegas does NOT perform in Las Vegas, but at the Outrigger Main Showroom in Waikiki, while on the other hand, Tony Ruivivar, Bert Sagum, Michael Laygo, Hoku Low, Vince Mendoza, Roy Venturina, Wayne Wakai, and Jasmine Trias, DO perform in Las Vegas - Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7 at the Gold Coast on West Flamingo. But, back to Bumatai. One of Hawaii's favorite comedians, Andy began his career opening for popular Hawaiian comedian, Frank De Lima, and filling in for the late Rap Raplinger in Booga Booga. Bumatai went on to perform stand up comedy in the Islands and on the U.S. Mainland. His film credits include The Whoopee Boys, A Man Called Sarge, and Aloha Summer. He recorded numerous comedy albums and garnered a Na Hoku Hanohano Award for "Most Promising Artist" and three more for "Best Comedy Performance." Bumatai is currently the Executive Producer of Nighttime Productions and produces and stars in his own online talk program, The Andy Bumatai Show. Tickets for Crackseeds of Comedy, $26 pre-sale and $31 the day of show, are on sale at the Silverton Casino Lodge box office or can be charged by phone at (866) 866-6868. Or, click here to purchase tickets online. Tickets are non-refundable. Dates and times are subject to change. Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. * * * * * * * Thalia Dondero will receive the 5th Annual Women's Hall of Fame Pioneer Award from the Women's Chamber Foundation, next Friday, March 19th, at an 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. luncheon at Morton's The Steakhouse. Dondero's award will be presented by last year's recipient, The Honorable Lorraine Hunt-Bono, with FOX 5 anchor John Huck as master of ceremonies. This year's Hall of Fame inductees are: Lorrinda Gray-Davis, Director of Diversity, Perini Building Company; Marissa Hawkins, president of Facelogic and Massage Envy (Young Professional); Ann McGee, president of Miracle Flights for Kids; Melanie in the Morning radio personality at Sunny 106.5FM; Debra Nelson, MGM Mirage, Vice President of Corporate Diversity & Community affairs; Paula Bell-Saxton, President of Sacon Construction; and Y. Caryl Suzuki, principal Clark County School District. Thalia Marie Sperry Dondero has lived in Nevada since 1942. She was the first woman elected to the Clark County Commission in 1974, and in 1996, she won election to the Board of Regents. Dondero was born in Greeley, Colorado, and moved to Bakersfield, California, with her family in 1930. After finishing junior college, she worked with the Basic Magnesium Industries in Sacramento, before she was transferred to the Las Vegas area in 1942. She met Harvey Dondero, a teacher at Las Vegas High School, and they married in 1946. The couple resided in Carson City from 1946 to 1948 while Harvey worked for the U.S. Department of Education; then returned to Las Vegas where Dondero resumed his career as an educator and assistant superintendent of the Clark County School District. The mission of the Women's Hall of Fame is to honor all the nominees and recipients from the ATHENA Awards and women in performing arts, entertainment and media for their achievements, community support, and education to insure the continued achievements of women and young professionals in Nevada. At this event, money from the raffles will go towards the educational scholarships for young professionals and grants for women. The scholarships will be given out on November 11th, at the 7th Annual ATHENA Awards. All inductees are honored in the Women's Hall of Fame Alumni Program, listed in all chamber printed material, "Women In Power" magazine, and the Women's Hall of Fame Web page. Morton's The Steakhouse is located at 400 East Flamingo in Las Vegas. The cost is $45 for WCCNV members, $55 for non-members and $70 for VIP seats. To make a reservation, e-mail: whof@womenschamberofnevada.org or call the Women's Chamber at (702) 733-3955, where you can also learn about becoming a sponsor. * * * * * * * The 2010 Las Vegas PRIDE Parade Committee is excited to announce that the internationally acclaimed and legendary celebrity impersonator, Larry Edwards (also known as Hot Chocolate), has been named the 2010 Las Vegas PRIDE Parade Celebrity Grand Marshall. Larry is an entertainer's entertainer whose career has taken him far beyond the stage. With past appearances on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Entertainment Tonight, and Oprah, Larry has entertained millions and become one of Las Vegas' favorite celebrity impersonators. He was even awarded the key to the city of Las Vegas by one of the country's most famous mayors, Oscar Goodman. In spite of this success, Larry says, "the highlight of my career was appearing in the Academy Award nominated film, What's Love Got To Do With It - The Tina Turner Story. He can also be seen in the hit movie, Miss Congeniality 2 starring Oscar-winner, Sandra Bullock. Currently, Larry entertains as a cast member of Frank Marino‘s Divas Las Vegas, portraying Tina Turner and Beyonce, at the Imperial Palace. As Hot Chocolate, Larry is well known for his role as Mood Director and VIP Host at Piranha Nightclub where he gives guests the grand VIP treatment. Larry is well-known for his dedication to his community and has often found ways to participate with local and out-of-town nonprofit organizations, assisting them with entertainment and fundraising. "Larry is all heart," says Jake Naylor, President of Las Vegas PRIDE, "and his willingness to represent and serve his community over the years has made a world of difference not only for PRIDE, but many other organizations as well." Congrats, Proud Larry! * * * * * * * Paige O'Hara is an artist in more than one field. O'Hara is widely known as Disney's heroine, "Belle," in the critically acclaimed, Oscar-winning animated film Beauty and the Beast. Her many stage appearances include playing "Ellie May Chipley" in the Broadway revival of Showboat starring Donald O'Connor; as "Fantine" in the award-winning Les Miserables on Broadway; and as "Edwin Drood" in both the Broadway and national tour of The Mystery of Edwin Drood. She starred as "Nellie Forbush" in the Australian tour of South Pacific, and reprised the role, opposite Robert Goulet, in the states. In concert, Paige has appeared on stage in Sitting Pretty, The Cat and the Fiddle, Oh Boy, and Lady! Lady!, all at Carnegie Hall, as well as One Touch of Venus at Town Hall. She has toured Japan as a Special Guest Star with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and was the Special Guest Star/Host in The Great Radio City Music Hall Spectacular at the Flamingo Hilton. As a concert soloist, Paige has guest-starred at the Hollywood Bowl, the Boston Pops, and the Turrin Opera House. Her many recordings include Jerome Kern's Sitting Pretty; Mack and Mabel in Concert, recorded live in London; and a new and complete version of South Pacific .Two other recordings, Showboat and Of Thee] Sing, were nominated for Grammys in the Best Show Album category. Paige's love of painting began when she was a child. Her father was an architect - so drawing and painting was very much a way of life. Although Paige found much success with her singing, painting was always her escape. Much of her time was spent studying and learning from the masters, such as Turner, Sargent, Da Vinci, and although she does not have formal training, her years of practice are evident. When she first moved to New York, she helped support herself by selling her works on the street. As her stage career flourished, she painted for her own enjoyment. Since the success of Beauty and the Beast, Paige had done a few renderings based on her character, and is thrilled to have the opportunity to present a series of originals through Collectors Editions and the Disney Fine Art collection. Most recently Paige was seen in Disney's new DVD release of Peter Pan singing Richard Sherman's never recorded ballad "Neverland," and appeared in the feature film Enchanted. Paige continues to record various projects for Disney and can be seen as the "Soap Star" in the long running hit Menopause The Musical, now playing at the Luxor in Las Vegas. We will have more about Menopause the Musical in next Friday's column. 
Belle by Paige "Belle" O'Hara 
Samantha Lauren Carr at Disneyland 
Madelene Capelle In a coincidence (if there are such things), we just received a photo of adorable Samantha Lauren Carr, the four-year-old daughter of PR lady, Lisa Keim-Carr. Surprise. Surprise. Looking like a little princess herself, Sam is posed with one of her favorite Disney princesses, Belle, during a recent trip to The Happiest Place On Earth, Disneyland. * * * * * * * This Sunday, March 14th, international opera singer, Madelene Capelle, and pianist, Miriam Brickman, will combine their talents in a 3 p.m. concert at the Trinity International School, 2525 Emerson Avenue. Be enthralled as Ms. Capelle performs well known Puccini and Verdi arias, complete with "over the top" costumes. Be the first to preview her new upcoming one-woman show, The Undone Divas. Ms. Capelle is a consummate artist with a great comedic flair. Pianist Brickman will dazzle our audience with her vast repertoire including Gershwin, Beethoven (with Shakespeare), Liszt and Chopin. This program, presented by Gateway Arts Foundation and Gateway Gallery, should be a fabulous event. For information and reservations, please call (702) 255-0695, or e-mail to camille@gatewayartsfoundation.org.
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Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - March 5, 2010 
Vince Falcone & artist Peter Justl 
Frank Marino & Diva Dancers We are a bit behind on sharing some of our recent entertainment experiences with our readers. Although we don't call ourselves "critics," and we don't give grades or stars to what we have seen, we are happy to suggest performances that we have enjoyed...or not. On Saturday, February 20th, we made the trip to see singer/impressionist, Bob Anderson at the North Las Vegas Cannery. He played to a full house, with lots of friends and fans in the crowd. We saw Judy Coco, Jerry Fink, Vera Goulet, Norm Johnson and Nancy Barr, Jessica Marciel, Babe Pier, Cork Proctor, and Art Vargas (who recently did his own show at the Cannery-owned Rampart) in the audience. In addition to singing standards like "I Get Along Without You Very Well," "After Today," "What's New," "You're Gonna Hear From Me," and Phyllis Molinary and Artie Butler's "Here's To Life" in his own voice, Anderson did spot on impressions of Johnny Mathis (singing "Over the Weekend"), Neil Diamond ("September Morn"), Barry Manilow ("I Write the Songs"), Ray Charles ("Georgia"), Tony Bennett ("Steppin' Out With My Baby/I Left My Heart In San Francisco"), Dean Martin ("When You're Smiling"), Sammy Davis Jr. ("Come Back To Me/What Kind of Fool Am I"), Frank Sinatra ("Angel Eyes"), and snippets of Steve Lawrence, Buddy Greco, Bobby Darin and Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong. A touching moment was Anderson singing "If Ever I Would Leave You" in the voice of the late Robert Goulet, with his widow, Vera, in the audience. Anderson was backed by Vincent Falcone on piano, Vinnie's brother Marc Falcone on keys, John Nasshan on drums, and Kenny Seiffert on bass. It is very evident to us that former Las Vegan Anderson, who currently lives and works in Branson, would like to be back performing (and maybe living) in this city. It wouldn't surprise us to see him back here again. As Cousin Claire has said many times before (she does tend to repeat herself), most of the people who move away from Las Vegas, eventually come back. It's true! In a surprise move, at a song break in Anderson's Saturday night show, journalist/publicist Norm Johnson and architect/artist Peter Justl came out on stage to present his friends, Vince and Annette Falcone with a portrait of the musician done by Justl, adding a nice touch to the evening. On Thursday, the 25th, we took in two events - early in the evening, it was Media and VIP night at the Imperial Palace for Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas, and late night, it was the February edition of the (usually) monthly Composers Showcase. Although Marino's new revue has been up and running since October (following a successful four-show September "audition" over Labor Day weekend). When the hotel quickly decided that Divas had passed the "test," and would be staying on, work got underway to build some permanent sets and add some extra pizzazz to the production. It was decided to wait to hold the VIP Grand Opening festivities until everything was ready for critiquing. A number of the carefully made-up cast faces are familiar, having made the transition from the Riviera's An Evening at La Cage (where Frank Marino starred in the show for almost 25 years) to the Imperial Palace's Divas Las Vegas. The impersonators are Larry Edwards as Beyonce and Tina Turner, Joseph Santellano as Bette Midler and Shirley Bassey, Kenneth Blake as Madonna and Dolly Parton, Derrick Barry as Lady Gaga and Britney Spears, Steven Wayne as Celine Dion and Cher, Chris Woods as Whitney Houston and Diana Ross, Sammy Gonzales as Liza Minnelli, and, of course, Frank Marino as host/hostess, Joan Rivers. It's Kenneth Blake who performs the effective and dramatic, "What Makes a Man a Man" (sung by the oh so French, Charles Aznavour), before the big finale. One very noticeable change (and we feel, improvement) is the addition of six male dancers to the production, and these boys can really dance! As for the hunky half-dozen, they are Jeremy Butcher, Michael Cammarata, Justin LaFluer, Stephen Lowry, Jason Mckensie and Paul Pratt (both Pratt and Butcher were cast members of Naked Boys Singing!, now in its ninth month at The Onyx in the off-Strip Commercial Center). The pre-show party, called "Drinks & Desserts With the Divas," offered invited guests everything from a trip back to their youth, to the Sin Sity Sisters - a group of hairy-chested men in outrageous make-up and get-ups, who served as hostesses. Those Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence passed around diet-busters such as individual boxes of familiar movie candy (Milk Duds, Junior Mints, Raisinetes, Good & Plenty, Starburst, Skittles and Whoppers), along with Hostess "pastries," including Twinkies and Ho Hos and Ding Dongs and Suzy Q's, on silver trays. The tables were decorated with silver-wrapped Hershey Kisses, Ring Pops, Valentine Candy Bracelets, while oversize martini glasses containing pink cotton candy were used as centerpieces. The audience was enthusiastic, about both the party and Divas Las Vegas. With the Australian boy band, Human Nature; and the Japanese muscle musical, Matsuri, already established, it looks like the IP has another entertainment winner in its stable. 
Angelica Bridges 
Zowie Bowie's Chris Phillips 
Raymond del Barrio Among those that we spotted in the crowd were Larry Atello, Angelica Bridges (formerly of Baywatch and Playboy magazine fame, and now appearing in Fantasy at the Luxor), Lon Bronson, Nathan Burton, Ron Camari, Doug Elfman, Dick Feeney, Jerry Fink, Amanda Flahive, Vera Goulet, Carole Hassell, the men of Human Nature, Norm Johnson, Robin Leach, John Neeland, Ken Owens, and Zowie Bowie's Chris Phillips. And yes, we noticed that when Marino was giving credit to those who helped him along the way, he "forgot" to mention his former producer, old "what's-his-name." That was very tactful, Frank. Then it was out the door, without even staying for the final bows (or curtseys), to make it to the Liberace Museum and the Composers Showcase before the 10:30 start (no speed limits were broken in getting there). These showcases are extremely impressive, giving professionals who usually have to stick to a script, the opportunity to display other sides of their talents. Many of the musicians and singers who perform in big productions six nights out of the week, also write music and musicals. The Composers Showcase gives them the chance to show their wares to, mostly, other actors. Last week was no different, except there were a few new, or rarely seen, faces in the spotlight. New Yorker, actor/singer/dancer Jon Peterson, in Vegas to perform as a special guest for the Performing Arts Society of Nevada, graced the showcase with a song called "Skidoo." Young Phillip Seaton, formerly with Think the Band, did "Broke Down Cheater," while singer, songwriter Larry Hart (in his first time performing at the showcase) did "Stand Strong" from his musical, Sisterella, and vocalist Raymond del Barrio sang Hart's "Because She Loves Me." One of the many high points was Rebecca Spencer (visiting from Seattle) singing Keith Thompson's "That's My Life," while Philip Fortenberry accompanied her on piano; and visiting pianist (and funny fellow), Floridian, Dennis Edwards, playing his two of his original compositions, "All Alone" and "Buckle Up." 
Dennis Edwards 
Thommie Walsh By the way, Keith Thompson, the glue that holds the showcase together, announced that the March edition will probably take place on APRIL 1st (no fooling!). The primary reason for the late date is because Mr. Thompson, who is, as we have mentioned many times (and will continue to do so) is the Musical Director for Jersey Boys, will be at the Springside Inn in Auburn, New York, doing a production of his clever musical, Kooky Tunes, for the March 26th, 27th debut season of the Inn's new dinner theater series, which is dedicated to the memory of Auburn native, Thommie Walsh. The late two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winner passed away from complications of lymphoma in June of 2007. Prior to his death, Walsh directed productions of Kooky Tunes to sold-out crowds in Manhattan nightspots. The revue also was part of a tribute to Walsh at Sardi's after his death. In Theatre Magazine wrote, "Keith Thompson's Kooky Tunes is distinguished by an irreverent sense of humor that consistently amuses and provides big laughs." The upcoming Kooky Tunes cast will feature Patrick DeGennaro, Vanessa A. Jones, Perry Payne, Jay Rogers and Thompson himself. We will have more about this project, AND Thommie Walsh, next week. 
The Cast of Kooky Tunes 
Jon Peterson On Sunday, the 28th, we saw London-born, musical theater star, Jon Peterson, in his one man Song Man, Dance Man at the Clark County Flamingo Library. Presented by the Performing Arts Society of Nevada, this talented entertainer's theater piece paid tribute to some of his personal favorites - George M. Cohan, Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Anthony Newley, Sammy Davis Jr., and Bobby Darin, in both song and dance (thus, the name of his show). And, surprise! Busy, busy Keith Thompson accompanied. Travis Cloer, who portrays Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys at The Palazzo, stepped out of that role to do his own show (actually, two shows on the same night) in the Cabaret at Liberace's on Wednesday. With Keith Thompson at the piano (there's that name again), Tyler Williams on upright bass, Brian Czach on drums, Steve Cantor on guitar, Gary Cordell on trumpet and Eric Tewalt on saxophone, on this night, Cloer's selection of songs did not include one Frankie Valli tune, although one song, "Since I Don't Have You," showed off Travis' Valli-like falsetto abilities. Like his first solo recording, Cloer calls his show, Setting the Standard, and, for the most part, standards are what the personable young singer delivers. From Cole Porter's "In the Still of the Night" combined with "That's All," Irving Berlin's "Cheek to Cheek," Duke Ellington's "I'm Beginning To See the Light," Hoagy Carmichael's "Georgia On My Mind," and George and Ira Gershwin's "A Foggy Day (In London Town)," to the Beatles, "My Love," Travis gave each song his own personal touch. The audience (sold out for the first show and almost full for the second), was delighted with the performance by this approachable young man. 
Travis Cloer 
Larry Atello 
Sharon McNight On a personal note...It's hard to believe that this serious musician is the same fellow who joined Erich Bergen (late of Jersey Boys) and Rene Ruiz (Toxic Audio) in Britney Spears' "I'm Not a Girl." Yep. That's what they sang in a showcase at the Liberace Museum. We have a feeling that Liberace would have enjoyed it all as much as the rest of us did. And speaking of Larry Atello, rumor has it that Matt Remington, the company manager of Tony n' Tina's Wedding, would like Atello to return to the interactive dinner show, if even for a few nights a week. Tony n' Tina's director, Larry Pellegrini, as well as producers, Jeff Gitlin and Raphael Berko, would like for that to happen as well. This might work out very well for Atello, as it would give him the opportunity to do other things...like his Have a Nice Day Bon Jovi tribute show, both here and out of the city. Tony n' Tina's Wedding, is currently serving up dinner, music and laughs at the V Theater in the Miracle Mile Mall at Planet Hollywood. * * * * * * * Here are reminders for some of the best things (too many) that are happening around the city this weekend...
Tomorrow afternoon, it's a gathering of Bill Fayne's show business friends, pooling their talents in a benefit to honor his standing in the community and raise money to help with his mounting medical bills. In November, Bill had major throat surgery in a Southern California hospital. Things did not go as planned or hoped for the well-liked musician, and Fayne wound up being hospitalized until January. Beginning at 2, the Suncoast showroom will be the site of the fundraiser. Although he is now back in Las Vegas, it is not known when Fayne can return to work. Add Susan Anton and Tina Walsh to the list of top performers mentioned in last Friday's column. This should be a blockbuster. We will tell you that tickets are $25, $35 and $45, plus taxes and fees, but, by the time you are reading this, chances are that all the tickets will have been sold. On the slim chance that there are still some seats available, call (702) 636-7075. Up the hill, not too far from the Suncoast, the Starbright Theatre is featuring the uniquely talented, Sharon McNight in Betty, Betty, Bette! This is a return trip to Vegas for McNight, who performed her Sophie Tucker tribute show, and Gone But Not Forgotten, in earlier performances at the Sun City Summerlin theater. This time, it's Betty Hutton, Betty Grable and Bette Davis who are getting the McNight treatment. Tickets for the 7 p.m. show, presented by Michael Chapman and ChapQuist Entertainment, are $15 for Sun City Summerlin residents, and $17 for those who live elsewhere. All ticket sales are check or cash (exact change required). No credit cards accepted. The theater is located at 2215 Thomas Ryan Blvd. (off Rampart, west on Lake Mead to the top of the hill). For up-to-date information on Starbright Theatre shows, call (702) 240-1301. 
Jason Forbach 
Las Vegas Academy's Thoroughly Modern Millie 
Jimmy Hopper Also on March 6th, the Las Vegas Philharmonic presents Pops Concert III, Broadway a la Carte, at 8 p.m. inside Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on the UNLV Campus. Five spectacular singers, Elly Brown, Bruce Ewing, Mary Ann Robinson, Kristy Tingle and Jason Forbach, will join the Philharmonic, to take audience members on an unforgettable journey with music from Les Miserables, Evita, South Pacific and Hello, Dolly! Forbach, who recently wound up his engagement in Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular, is stepping in for the previously scheduled Kevin Sherrell. Sherrell has pneumonia. Ticket prices are $35 to $75 for general seating, $31.50 to $67.50 for seniors (62 and older) and students (18 and younger), and are available at the UNLV Performing Arts Center Box Office or at UNLVtickets.com. Call (702) 895-ARTS for any questions. * * * * * * * What else is going on around here?
The award-winning Las Vegas Academy is presenting West Side Story, at 7 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, through March 20th. We have seen a number of productions put on by this outstanding school - Cats, Miss Saigon School Edition (which even had a helicopter come down onto the stage from goodness knows where), Little Women the Musical, Sweeney Todd, and Thoroughly Modern Millie among them - put on by the students at the downtown high school, and have always been extremely impressed. The acting, singing, musicians, costumes, makeup and sets are top rate and of a professional nature. It's easy to forget that you are watching kids, and not seasoned Broadway pros. This version of the Leonard Bernstein musical has a cast of 75 young actors, more than 40 musicians, and a crew of about 60. Tickets are $18 and may be purchased by calling (800) 585-3737, going to www.startickers.com or heading to the Lowden Theatre for the Performing Arts box office, located at 8th and Clark Streets. Box office hours are weekdays from 2 to 4 p.m. For additional information, call (702) 799-7800, extension 5103. Better hop to it, if you want to catch the unique Jimmy Hopper during the rest of his very short (this time around) stint in Vegas. Hopper closes out his Sundays at the Palms Lounge, this Sunday, March 7th. Show time is from 7 to 10 p.m. and there is no charge, no cover, no drink minimum to see this fine singer, musician. Hurry. Hurry. * * * * * * * 
Tempest Storm 
Cherry Wainer Some of our Pisces friends who are celebrating birthdays include - Candi Cazau, James Lee Reeves (aka Milo Tremley), Harry Goldson, Brent Barrett, Sean Astin, Carrot Top, Bernadette Peters, Tempest Storm, Jed Allen, Don Cadette, Cherry Wainer, Betty (Mrs. Guy) Mitchell, Tyler Cohen, Mary Wilson, Cruz Gallagher, Lance Burton, Marlon Jackson, Al Jarreau, Margaret Kurtz, Toni Andrews, Teresa Gilmore and Jaymi Marshal. Also, happy anniversary wishes to James Lee and Amber Reeves who are celebrating their 8th, and to Robert and Debra Danielson Allen. Incidentally, Bernadette Peters will close out the 2009-2010 New York Stage & Beyond season at UNLV, as she performs in concert on May 1st. * * * * * * * Now in its 20th year, the World Magic Seminar was held at The Orleans earlier this week. Many of the top magicians were in Las Vegas for the occasion. Among those present, were Criss Angel, Eugene Burger, Lance Burton, Nathan Burton, Siegfried Fischbacher, Roy Horn, Mac King, Max Maven, Jeff McBride, Darren Romeo, Johnny Thompson, and Fielding West. Lance helped kick off a week of magic for the Youth Program of the World Magic Seminar at his castle in Henderson, hosting a luncheon and meet-and-greet with the most famous magicians in the world. 
Magic Men 
Sam Port * * * * * * * Sam Port, who was a principal singer, dancer in Donn Arden's Jubilee! at Bally's, before leaving the production show to spread his artistic wings, informs us that he was just cast in Rent at the Palace Theatre in New Hampshire. He will be playing "Benny." Rehearsals start next week. "I've dreamed of being in this show since I was a little kid," says the happy and excited young performer, "and it's hard to contain my enthusiasm now!" We ask, "Why try to contain it?" Jump! Scream! Shout it from the rooftops! Congratulations, Sam. * * * * * * * Out of town reminders...
If you happen to be in the Los Angeles area, and if you happen to be interested in recording your own CD (especially in cabaret style), let us recommend Mark Winkler's his How To Make Your Own CD (and Not Go Broke) workshop. Presented by Cabaret West, the informative three-hour session takes place this Monday, March 8th, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the famed Gardenia Restaurant and Lounge, at 7066 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood. The cost for Cabaret West Members is $25, and $35 for non members. For reservations, call the Cabaret West voice mail line at (310) 226-7033, or e-mail to Cabaretwest@aol.com. Payment in cash or check the day of the class or in advance through www.paypal.com to vendor cabwest@aol.com. Drinks and food will be available. Winkler is a working performer, songwriter, recording artist, so he knows of what he speaks...through experience. He and jazz singer, Judy Wexler, performed at the Summerlin Library Theater on Valentine's Day. Tell Mark that Cousin Claire sent you. 
Mark Winkler with UCLA Class 
KT Sullivan & Mark Nadler And, if you are in the Manhattan area, specifically around the Algonquin Hotel and the famed Oak Room (59 W. 44th Street), go see KT Sullivan and Mark Nadler in Gershwin...Here To Stay. The talented twosome, with special guest Jon Weber, will perform from March 9th through April 10th - Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 and 11 p.m. Having triumphed in their recent Oak Room salute to Cole Porter ("oo la la! C'est magnifique!", New York Times), Mark and KT now turn their considerable talents to two more greats of the musical pantheon, George and Ira Gershwin. From March 9th through April 10th in their new Oak Room show, Gershwin...Here to Stay, KT and Mark will lend their unique vocal and pianistic interpretations to such classic tunes as "Of Thee I Sing," "Do It Again!," "I'll Build A Stairway to Paradise," "Embraceable You," "But Not For Me" and "Swanee." Chicago jazz pianist, Jon Weber, will make a special guest appearance. KT's Broadway shows include George Abbott's Broadway, Threepenny Opera with Sting and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. She appeared in the national company of Annie Get Your Gun and has received numerous awards, most recently the prestigious Mabel Mercer Award. Regionally she appeared at the Old Globe Theatre, the Hartford Stage Company, Municipal Opera in St. Louis, Goodspeed Opera House and Carnegie Hall with Michael Feinstein. Among her many CDs is "Swell Party...R.S.V.P. Cole Porter," the recorded version of her Oak Room show with Mark Nadler and her just-released "Timeless Tunes." Mark has performed at Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops and has been a soloist with the Baltimore Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony and Oregon Symphony. He has played at Lincoln Center and at almost every major nightclub in New York, Los Angles, Chicago, San Francisco and London. His off-Broadway Gershwin revue, American Rhapsody, was nominated for Drama Desk and Lucille Lortel Awards. Broadway credits include Dame Edna: The Royal Tour and The Sheik of Avenue B. His new CD, Beyond Words: Lyrics by Ira Gershwin, will be released during his Oak Room run. Dinner and Performances are offered seasonally Tuesday through Saturday, by reservation only. Dinner seating begins at 6:30 p.m. with an 8:30 p.m. curtain time. There is a second performance on Friday and Saturday evenings at 11 p.m. Guests may enjoy an á la carte menu at 10 p.m., prior to the second show. Critic Stephen Holden of the New York Times, describes Nadler and Sullivan as, "Ferociously entertaining," and goes on to say "Ms. Sullivan and Mr. Nadler suggest a ripened Botticelli Venus squired by Danny Kaye, freshly incarnated as a hyperkinetic piano man visiting from vaudeville heaven." Has Holden ever lied to you? Go. See these two. There is a $50 cover charge per person plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or a $60 prix fixe menu. For show reservations, call (212) 419-9331 or go online to bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com. 
Rebecca Spencer & Philip Fortenberry 
F.I.O.R.E. Presidents 
Joni Illi Also, original Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular cast member (she played Madame Giry), Rebecca Spencer's concert, Broadway Passages, takes place at the intimate Blue Heron Art Center on idyllic Vashon Island near Seattle, at 8 p.m. on March 13th. Rebecca's longtime collaborator and Music Director/Pianist, Philip Fortenberry, will be flying in from his Las Vegas "day job" as the Associate Conductor for The Venetian's Jersey Boys to join her onstage. Tickets are priced at $15 and $17, and include complimentary champagne and deserts. Seating is limited, and no one under 21 will be admitted. You may purchase tickets thru Brown Paper Tickets, at this link. If you happen to be in the neighborhood...
* * * * * * *
Apparently Lily Tomlin was happy with her first Las Vegas gig at the MGM Grand's Hollywood Theatre, as she is back there, from next Thursday, the 11th, through March 17th. Call (702) 891-7777 for tickets. THEN, from April 29th through May 5th, Lily returns to Las Vegas...this time to the Colosseum at Caesars Palace. And actor Chazz Palminteri, whose one man show Las Vegas Review-Journal theater critic Anthony Del Valle called "...one of the most exciting theater experiences on the Strip." The R-J's Mike Weatherford called Palmenteri's A Bronx Tale the "No. 1 show of 2009!" and the Las Vegas Sun's Joe Brown described the "New York Classic" as "...richly comic and compelling." Call it what you will, Palmenteri returns to The Venetian, in "Back by Popular Demand" performances, April 28th through May 9th, and again October 7th through the 18th. Tickets range from $37.25 to $157.25, and may be purchased by calling the Venetian/Palazzo Box Offices at (702) 414-9000. As for Jason Alexander, portraying motivational speaker "Donny Clay," it looks like he will continue to perform on occasional dates at Planet Hollywood, as long as interest is there and tickets are selling. For this go round, he is there through March 14th. For more dates, and additional information, call (702) 785-5000. We had a feeling this was going to happen with these types of shows. * * * * * * * It's time for Obama, Bush (either or both), Clinton, Carter and any other living president, Italian or otherwise, to get together for a meeting of the non-club club called F.I.O.R.E. (Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events). If you already have the date for the gathering marked on your calendar, and the notation isn't in a square for Tuesday, March 9th, it's in the wrong spot, and on the wrong day. So, change your notes and your plans and show up at Bugsy's (located on the southwest corner of Sahara and Jones) at 11:30 a.m. on March 9th...not before, not after, but March 9th. Detective (and president) Gordon Martines (pronounced Martinez), who is running for sheriff, will be the special guest for the March meeting, so leave your contraband at home. Martines (still pronounced Martinez) will speak about crime in our community. A question and answer session will take place after the detectives' talk. Head honcho, Nelson Sardelli, is still recovering from hand surgery, so this might be the opportune time to challenge him to an arm wrestling contest. Please let president Gene Vitale know if you will be attending (and you had better be there) by e-mailing to BABYEUE@AOL.COM. For more information on F.I.O.R.E., check out http://www.nonclubclubfiore.com/about_us.htm. * * * * * * * A week from tonight, March 12th, between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m., it's Joni Illi's turn in the spotlight at Frediani's Authentic Italian Restaurant. Backed by Joe Darro at the piano, Illi performs primarily pop standards from the Great American Songbook. Frediani's is located at 2895 N. Green Valley Parkway, one block north of Sunset, next to 24 Hour Fitness. For additional information, call (702) 433-1494. * * * * * * * 
Eric Michael Gillett 
Kathryn Grayson & Randy Carlson Vegas vets, whether they be tourists or locals, may remember Eric Gillett (he put the Michael in between his first and last name, after he left the city for the Big Apple) as a principal in Donn Arden productions at MGM Grand/Bally's, the Las Vegas Hilton's Bal du Moulin Rouge, and in Maynard Sloate's book shows at the downtown Plaza (then known as the Union Plaza). Following 11 years as the "Singing Ringmaster" with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Eric Michael Gillett has done Broadway (The Frogs, Sweet Smell of Success, Kiss Me Kate), movies (The Producers and Maid in Manhattan), TV (Law & Order), and recorded two solo albums (Cast of Thousands: The Songs of Craig Carnelia and Sing a Rainbow). Tomorrow night at 7 and 9:30 p.m., Gillett performs his own show, Best of My Love, at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (One Center Street in Newark). In the Best of My Love, the MAC and Bistro Award-winning vocalist reflects his eclectic musical tastes, fearlessly intertwining the Great American Songbook with contemporary pop tunes. "I listen to all kinds of music," he says. "The soundtrack to my life is different than the soundtrack to my parents'. A lot of people think songwriting has deteriorated, that pop music doesn't have the same dramatic force it used to have. But good writing is good writing, no matter where you find it." For The Best of My Love, Gillett combines Broadway songs with reinventions of pop hits by Madonna ("Take a Bow"), Back Street Boys ("As Long as You Love Me"), The Eagles ("Best of My Love"), Celine Dion ("Because You Loved Me"), Phil Collins ("Separate Lives"), and more." Don Rebic serves as Musical Director/Arranger, with Chip Jackson on bass. For ticket info, call (888) GO-NJPAC. * * * * * * * From Claire Voyant reader, Randy Carlson, comes this e-mail...It was with great sadness that I learned of the great MGM star Kathryn Grayson passing away. I had met her a couple of times over the years -- the first time she autographed my old 78 record album of "Showboat" - I was so happy to have something so valuable - autographed by one of the stars! She was very nice to visit with. Several years later I again met her in Las Vegas and told her about the time she autographed my record album - which unfortunately was one of the thousands of records that got stolen from my storage unit! I was so upset that I had stored it there in the first place and had not kept it at home! She was horrified to hear my story and told me to come by the next day and bring something else so she could sign it --- luckily Howard Keel was there also (whom she co-stared with in Showboat) she said "And go over to Howard Keel and get him to sign it too - tell him I said so!" I was lucky this time to have an LP Album of "Showboat" autographed not only by Kathryn Grayson but also by Howard Keel - thanks to her --- and she said, "let's sign a picture for you too of us both from "Kiss Me Kate"! She was very dear to have done that for me! Bless you Kathryn!
Randy Carlson
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Tags: Vince Falcone Peter Justi Frank Marino Diva Dancers
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - February 26, 2010 
Woody Allen 
Gilda Radner 
Peter Sellers They are Jewish and they are raging, therefore, this group of comics call themselves Raging Jews of Comedy. Made up of Joel Marks, Sunda Croonquist, Gregg Rogell, Dan Naturman and Tommy Savitt, the funny, edgy, folk will take to the stage of the College of Southern Nevada's Nicholas J. Horn Theatre, located in North Las Vegas, tomorrow night at 7:30. Tickets, which may be purchased through ticketmaster, are $30 for the general public, and $15 for students. You may also order by calling (866) 468-7619. It might be interesting to note that, although they may not ALL be raging, if Jews were taken out of the comedy equation, there would be (and have been) a lot less laughter in the world. Among the great legends of comedy (many with a history in Las Vegas) - Marty Allen, Woody Allen, Jason Alexander, Bea Arthur, Roseanne Barr, Dave Barry, Jack Benny, Milton Berle, Shelley Berman, Joey Bishop, Lewis Black, Elayne Boosler, Victor Borge, David Brenner, Fanny Brice, Mel Brooks, Lenny Bruce, George Burns, Sid Caesar, Jack Carter, Andrew Dice Clay, Myron Cohen, Billy Crystal, Rodney Dangerfield, Totie Fields, Brad Garrett, Jackie Gayle, Shecky Greene, Buddy and Sandy Hackett, George Jessel, Danny Kaye, Allen King, Robert Klein, Jack E. Leonard, Jackie Mason, The Marx Brothers, Anne Meara, Gilda Radner, Carl and Rob Reiner, Don Rickles, Joan Rivers, Freddie Roman, Rita Rudner, Mort Sahl, Peter Sellers, Jerry Seinfeld, Garry Shandling, Allen Sherman, Sammy and Pauly Shore, Neil Simon, Bobby Slayton, Howard Stern, Jerry and Ben Stiller, Renee Taylor, The Three Stooges, Sophie Tucker, and Henny Youngman. These are just a handful of famous comedians. If we listed them all, it would take up the entire column (instead of just half of it), but you get the idea. Some other time, we will list some of the Jews who have been MAJOR contributors in music writing. 
The Three Stooges 
Bill Fayne * * * * * * * There are a number of entertaining and worthwhile things taking place on the same day Saturday, March 6th. We hate when this happens. If you plan well, since some events are taking place in the daytime and others at night, you may be able to do more than one thing on that date. On Saturday afternoon, Las Vegas entertainers will gather together at the Suncoast to honor and salute fellow performer, Bill Fayne. This star-studded event will be hosted by Fayne's longtime friend and musical collaborator, Clint Holmes, and Clint's wife, Kelly Clinton Holmes. Beginning at 2 p.m., many of the city's most talented community members - including, among others, Domenick Allen, his wife Leigh Zimmerman, and their daughter, Cayleigh Capaldi; Louie Anderson; Lance Burton; Elvis Presley tribute artist, Paul Casey; Vince Falcone; Terry Fator, 5th Avenue, Jersey Boys' Rick Faugno; Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show; Human Nature; the Las Vegas Tenors; Robin Leach; Jerry Lopez; the ladies of Menopause the Musical; Jeff Neiman; Oh What A Night!, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons tribute revue; Lena Prima; Frankie Scinta; Earl Turner; and Voci Vegas, are expected to participate. Cast members from other Vegas shows, as well as many additional singers and musicians from our community will also lend a hand (and a voice). For those who do not know, singer, musician, songwriter, conductor, arranger Fayne, has been through months of medical hell. In November, he underwent major surgery in Southern California, developed complications that resulted in an induced coma, and was unable to return to Las Vegas until January. Although he is slowly mending, Bill is unable to work, the bills are piling up, and he needs help. As the song goes, "That's What Friends Are For," especially if your friends are talented entertainers. Thanks, in a big part, to Boyd Gaming Corp., who will pick up the tab for the concert costs, with a NO COMPS policy for this show, the afternoon event should raise enough to take care of Bill's expenses for a while. Tickets are priced at $45, $35 and $25, all inclusive, and are available at through the Suncoast and the other Boyd Gaming properties (The Orleans, Gold Coast, Sam's Town). Mark your calendars. Understandably, there will be NO COMPS for the benefit. 
Louie Anderson 
Jerry Lopez 
Jeff Neiman On March 6th, the Las Vegas Philharmonic will present Pops Concert III, Broadway a la Carte, in an 8 p.m. performance inside Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on the UNLV Campus. Five spectacular singers - Elly Brown, Bruce Ewing, Mary Ann Robinson, Kevin Sherrell and Kristy Tingle - along with the entire Philharmonic, will take you on an unforgettable musical journey with music from Les Miserables, Evita, South Pacific and Hello, Dolly! Ticket prices are $35 to $75 for general seating, $31.50 to $67.50 for seniors (62 and older) and students (18 and younger), and are available at the UNLV Performing Arts Center Box Office or at UNLVtickets.com. Visit lvphil.com or call 895-ARTS for any questions. At the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin, on the 6th at 7, Sharon McNight stars as Betty, Betty and Bette!, as in Betty Grable, Betty Hutton and Bette Davis. Las Vegans loved her in her sold-out performance as Sophie Tucker in Red Hot Mama, and her take on Pearl Bailey, Judy Canova, Patsy Cline, Ethel Merman, Martha Rae and other great broads, in Gone But Not Forgotten. Now Michael Chapman and Chapquist Entertainment bring back the Tony Award-nominee, saluting the three Hollywood legends. The music includes Bette Davis' "I've Written a Letter to Daddy," Grable's "You're My Little Pinup Girl" and Hutton's classic "I Wake Up in the Morning Feeling Fine." This fun-filled show also includes "Arthur Murray Taught Me Dancing in A Hurry," "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," "It Had to Be You" and "Blue Skies." So fasten your seatbelts! It's going to be an incredible evening of music and mirth that only the versatile Sharon McNight can present. Ticket prices for Sun City Summerlin residents at $15, and $17 for non-residents. For credit card orders, call (702) 869-2064. For general show information, call (702) 240-1301. 
Elly Brown 
Sharon McNight as Bette Davis 
Mac King's Campfire Magic * * * * * * * The Society of Seven family is grieving the loss of Ethel A. Walker, mother of Karen Ruivivar, and mother-in-law of Tony Ruivivar, one of the musical comedy groups' founders. Mrs. Walker passed away suddenly on Tuesday. She would have turned 85 on March 24th. A memorial service for Ethel Walker was held yesterday. * * * * * * * Comedy-magician Mac King debuts his new book, Mac King's Campfire Magic: 50 Amazing, Easy-to-Learn Tricks and Mind-Blowing Stunts...Using Cards, String, Pencils, and Other Stuff from Your Knapsack, next month. King's passion for reading is prevalent in his new book, that features dozens of easy-to-learn magic tricks and stunts, with a focus on feats that can be performed with rope, bandanas, twigs and anything else found around the campfire. The humorous, easy-to-follow, instructions are brought to life by well-known illustrator (and Mac's cousin) Bill King, who also draws the widely syndicated comic strip, "Mac King's Magic in a Minute." With Mac's instruction, and assisted by his sidekick, Lewis the Monkey, readers will learn how to tie a knot with one hand, read their friends' minds, grow a plant instantly, transform a dead twig into a leafy one and more. The children's book, published by Black Dog & Leventhal and with a Foreword by Penn & Teller, is suitable for children from ages nine through 12, and is set to debut in March at all major booksellers. Filled with 250 full-color illustrations, Mac King's Campfire Magic (ISBN 978-1-57912-829-6), in paperback, will sell for $12.95, plus tax. Mac King has been recognized with numerous accolades including "Favorite Male Las Vegan," and "Best Bargain Show" by the Las Vegas-Review Journal 2009 "Best of Las Vegas" readers' poll, "Funniest Act in Magic Today" by Magic Magazine, Magician of the Year by The Magic Castle, and "Entertainer of the Year" by the Las Vegas Weekly "Readers Choice Awards." King, one of today's brightest and most talented magicians, takes the stage twice daily, Tuesday through Saturday, at Harrah's Las Vegas at 1 and 3 p.m. in the Showroom Theatre. Tickets are $24.95 plus tax. Additional information on The Mac King Comedy Magic Show can be found by visiting www.mackingshow.com.
* * * * * * * On Monday, March 8th, from 7 to 10 p.m., Cabaret West Presents By popular demand, Cabaret West presents Mark Winkler's singers workshop, How To Make Your Own CD (and not go broke). This will take place at the Gardenia Restaurant and Lounge, at 7066 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood (that's in California). Singer, songwriter Winkler (who performed in Las Vegas with Judy Wexler on Valentine's Day, thanks to the Vegas Jazz Society) states,
"As I've been teaching my songwriting classes and talking with singers lately, I've been struck with how little the artists I've met know about making a CD. Due to the advances in recording technology, everybody can make a CD today - but as I've learned not everybody can make one that will satisfy their objectives and more importantly get them noticed. So, I've hatched the idea for this workshop." Winkler goes on to say, "I've produced or co-produced over 15 CDs, and that experience has taught me what works and what doesn't, what to spend your hard earned money on and what to say "no" to. Some of what I've learned is quite surprising. My one day workshop covers everything from song selection and choosing the correct recording studio, to hiring the right musicians, from how many tunes to record to mixing the record and then I'll tell you how to distribute and promote your CD. These are all things I've learned the hard way. I promise I'll get to the nitty-gritty. I'll give you costs, studios, time estimates and short cuts - no bull----. I have a plan to take you from the very beginning of CD production to the end. Just bring your questions, a pen and I promise a fun yet educational afternoon." Among those vouching for the merits of this workshop are singer Dolores Scozzesi who enthuses, Wow, what a brilliant class you gave today on how to make a CD without going broke . You were wonderful ...Tons and tons of information. Bravo, Mr. Winkler." Dick Winzeler (writer of Great Expectations and songs by Anita Baker and Diane Schurr) says, "Great session Mark. You covered so much, and so well. It was very appreciated. You certainly gave it your all." "That was such a GREAT workshop you gave today, I really enjoyed it, and so glad I was able to be there. It was chock full of so much hard earned valuable information gained from all your years of experience. I feel like I have some sound guidelines to go forward with now. Thanks so much for all your unequivocal sharing, and the nice handouts as well," says Julie Creswell, industry veteran, singer, guitarist. Workshop costs are $25 for Cabaret West Members and $35 for non members. For reservations, call the Cabaret West voice mail line at (310) 226-7033, or e-mail to Cabaretwest@aol.com. Drinks and food will be available. 
Mark Winkler 
Joni Morris as Patsy Cline 
Travis Cloer * * * * * * * Tomorrow, Saturday, February 27th at 7 p.m., it's Lena Prima in Louis Prima, That's My Dad! At the Starbright Theatre, 2215 W. Thomas Ryan Blvd. in Sun City Summerlin. The legendary Louis Prima's youngest daughter, Lena, grew up singing and dancing on stage with her dad and is proudly continuing the tradition. Her high energy show features Prima classics including "That Old Black Magic," "Just A Gigolo," "Jump Jive 'An Wail" and "Sing Sing Sing." Rare video footage of Louis' Ed Sullivan Show performances and heartwarming stories of growing up as the daughter of a legend round out the show. This warm and gracious entertainer has headlined all over the country to sold-out audiences and has been received with standing ovations at festivals, theaters, nightclubs, performing arts centers, casinos and special events. She has received several awards including the Governor Lorraine Hunt Award for "Keeping Tradition Alive In Las Vegas" and the distinguished American Italian Cultural Roundtable of New York honored Lena for continuing her father's legacy and representing women in the field of jazz. Tickets are $20 for Sun City Summerlin residents, and $25 for non-residents. All shows at the Starbright Theatre are first come, first served with no limit on the number of tickets purchased. Show tickets may be purchased at Desert Vista, Mountain Shadows and Pinnacle community centers in Sun City Summerlin. All ticket prices include Live Entertainment Tax. Tickets are non-refundable. Starbright Theatre shows are open to everyone ages 12 and over. All ticket sales are check or cash (exact change required). No credit cards accepted. For more information on Starbright Theatre shows, call (702) 240-1301. * * * * * * * On February 17th, we attended The Edwards Twins show at Hennessey's Tavern, 425 Fremont Street, seeing it for the third time since it opened in downtown Las Vegas in late December. Each time we have been to Hennessey's, we have never seen the same show twice. There is always something different and/or new when the brothers take to the stage. New to us on our last visit was Anthony performing as Stevie Wonder. Very impressive...not just to us, but to someone who knows Stevie quite well and just happened to be in the Hennessey's audience on a recent night and saw Anthony's portrayal of the music legend. When we first met the twins, Anthony was playing piano and singing as the entertainment at the North Beach Café in Las Vegas, while Eddie was performing in the female impersonator show, An Evening at La Cage. Following a suggestion by Carol Burnett, the brothers united their individual talents and have been traveling around the world, successfully performing together, for about the past 20 years. The special occasion on the 17th, was a birthday celebration, with Anthony Edwards and Eddie Edwards turning 45. Anthony, who is older than Eddie by four minutes, tells us that their mother, Tricia, had no idea she was expecting twins and was completely surprised when she learned she was taking home two babies instead of just one. These two gentlemen have continued to surprise folks for most of their adult lives. This is the first time, in their joint career, that The Edwards Twins have done an ongoing show in the city that they call home. At Hennessey's, located at the east end of the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas, not only can you see a totally unique and entertaining show, but, in a "blast from the past," you can also have a real dinner in the same room where you see the show. The 6:30 dinner show is $45 all inclusive (beverages extra), while show only (at 8 p.m.) is $20. For reservations, call (702) 205-5313. Shows are dark on Fridays. The Edwards Twins ARE a Fremont Street Experience, and a very unique one at that.
March 20th through 22nd, the twins will be performing in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, so no Vegas shows on those nights. * * * * * * * The City Of Las Vegas Cultural Arts & Community Events presents Legendary Ladies of Country Music, starring Joni Morris, tomorrow (Saturday, February 27th) at 2 p.m. Joni and her After Midnight Band will perform their tribute show at the Charleston Heights Arts Center, 800 S. Brush St. (near Decatur and Charleston). Morris will sing songs made famous by Patsy Cline ("Crazy"), Kitty Wells ("Honky Tonk Angels"), Loretta Lynn ("You Ain't Woman Enough To Take My Man"), Tammy Wynette ("Stand By Your Man") and many more classic hits. Morris and her band have toured nationally for 15 years, sharing the stage with such renowned entertainers as The Gatlin Brothers, Glen Campbell, Highway 101, Neal McCoy, Janie Fricke, Ty Herndon and The Jordanaires. Morris has recorded several CDs, some containing songs she has written. Known for her extraordinary voice and ability to quickly develop a close bond with audiences, she includes comedy, costumes changes and some of her own original music in every show. Tickets are priced at $10 in advance and $15 on performance day. Call (702) 229-6383 for tickets and information. * * * * * * * The extensive hit songbook of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honorees, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, comes to life in Oh What A Night! at the Suncoast Showroom, Saturday, February 27th at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, the 28th at 4 p.m. Oh What A Night!, written and directed by independent Motown producer and creative consultant, George Solomon, and award-winning producer and director, Michael Chapman, is a tribute show that takes audiences on a musical journey through the hits of the famed group that formed in 1960. Recognizable songs such as "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Walk Like A Man," "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," "My Eyes Adored You," "Working My Way Back To You," "Let's Hang On," and "Who Loves You," along with several other top ten hits, are a part of this exiting musical review. Frankie Valli's chart-topping recording "Grease," the title song from the hit 1978 film, is also a part of the revue and is sure to thrill audiences. Choreographed by Paul Holmquist, Oh What A Night! features four singers who stay true to the classic songs of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, adding their own interpretation to the hits without impersonating the original group. The show has thrilled audiences in theaters, showrooms and cruise ships around the world, including its sold-out engagement in the Suncoast Showroom in January of 2009. Tickets are now available from $19.95, plus tax, and may be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 636-7075, or by visiting www.suncoastcasino.com. * * * * * * * Hash House A Go Go joins together with KVVU FOX 5's MORE! anchors for the third year in a row to create special pancakes in honor of National Pancake Week. The original pancakes are being sold through Sunday, March 7th, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting local charity, Best Buddies. FOX 5's Jason Feinberg, Monica Jackson, Rachel Smith and newcomer Arran Andersen joined up with Chef Anthony Vidal of Hash House A Go Go to put their culinary skills to the test. Each anchor designed their own unique flapjack that is being sold at both Hash House A Go Go locations. The four dynamic anchors are being pitted against each other to find out whose pancake the community likes best. Best Buddies, an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing opportunities for one-on-one friendships and integrated employment, will receive $2 from each of the FOX 5 pancakes sold. The best-selling flapjack will earn its creator the honor of having all the National Pancake Week proceeds donated to the charity in their name. Andersen's flapjack," My Pancake is Berry Berry Good," contains a mixture of blueberries, white sugar and white chocolate. Jackson's pancake is "SAW-C," which stands for strawberries, apples, white chocolate and cinnamon. Smith is keeping with her banana theme with the "Rachel's Banana Bonanza," a pancake made up of bananas, cinnamon and brown sugar and topped with whipped cream. Feinberg's "Itchy & Scratchy's Coco-Cocoa Kitty" is a tasty concoction of coconut, cocoa and chocolate. All four creations are featured on a special FOX 5 MORE! menu and priced at $8.95 each. The pancakes are available throughout breakfast, brunch and lunch at the 6800 W. Sahara location from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and at the Imperial Palace location from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Hash House A Go Go brings farm-fresh food with a funky, modern twist to the locals and visitors of Las Vegas. The well-known restaurant is famous for its unusual décor and enormous portions. Hash House A Go Go has garnered dozens of local and national accolades and has been featured on the Food Network, Martha Stewart, Dr. Phil and, most recently, the popular Travel Channel program, Man v. Food. For reservations or inquiries, please call the Sahara location at (702) 804-4646, the Imperial Palace location at (702) 254-4646, or visit www.hashhouseagogo.com. * * * * * * * Next Wednesday, March 3rd, in two shows (one at 7:30 and one at 9:30 p.m., the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum presents, Travis Cloer, Setting the Standard. Travis Cloer has been entertaining and wowing audiences for almost 20 years. Originally from Kansas City, he has performed for audiences all over the world. His stage credits include, West Side Story, Damn Yankees, Starlight Express, Assassins, and The Radio City Christmas Spectacular. He joined the original Broadway cast of the smash hit Jersey Boys in 2007 and has been starring in the Las Vegas production of the show as Frankie Valli since 2008. His one man show, The Power of Music, has made him one of the most sought after entertainers in the cruise industry. Travis is also an acclaimed recording artist. His best selling album, Setting the Standard, features some of his favorite songs from the Great American Songbook, and his album, Christmas from the City, will complete your holiday music collection. Both albums have been given rave reviews, including 5 stars from iTunes. Check out Travis at www.traviscloer.com for more information on music, video, and upcoming appearances. Tickets: $20 in advance, and $25 at the door. The Liberace Museum is located at 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer in Las Vegas. Call (702) 798-5595. * * * * * * * 
Michael Ray Tyler 
Engelbert Humperdinck 
Art Vargas Next Friday, the Freakin' Frog, at 4700 S. Maryland Parkway (across from UNLV), will host a CD release party/performance for Michael Ray Tyler, beginning at 8 p.m. After high school in 1983 and a scholarship at the University of Kansas where he later received a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1992, Tyler was introduced to the life of a musician on the road. He toured and performed with Wayne Newton in 1992-93. Since then, he has opened for Lionel Richie, Stevie Nicks, and Jay Leno, and has also performed as backup performer for such artists as Lou Rawls, Kid Creole, Joan Rivers, Mary Wilson, and currently makes his base in Las Vegas, where he performs at such events as Sho West, Andre Agassi Foundation Fundraisers, McDonald's Corporation Events, Macintosh, IBM, Nortel, Microsoft webpage, Toyota, State Farm, Century 21, Morgan Stanley, Oreck, Tiger Woods Jams Events, Wendy's and many more. Tyler received his Master's in Jazz Composition from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 1999. Tyler is one of the most talented, and respected professionals in town. He's worked as a composer, arranger, producer, engineer and educator. And, whether he's performing with his own band, or some of the most well known performers in the industry, Michael Ray is a musicians' musician. His innovative, versatile style puts him in a class all his own. Tyler is not only known for his smooth vocal nuances, but also for his extraordinary and skillful Instrumental abilities. As an up and coming artist, Michael produces, composes and arranges all of the music for his group, and his work speaks for itself. Audiences have praised his originality and fresh new approach time and time again. * * * * * * * Grammy-nominated artist and international recording icon, Engelbert Humperdinck, brings his legacy of love, sensitive interpretation of lyrics and distinct charm to the 827-seat Orleans Showroom stage March 5th, 6th and 7th. Born Arnold George Dorsey in Madras, India, on May 2, 1936, the popular singer became famous internationally during the 1960s and 1970s, after adopting the name of the famous 19th century German opera composer, Engelbert Humperdinck as his own stage name. Once called "The premier voice of the 20th century" by the London Times, Humperdinck first hit the charts with his smash hit "Release Me (And Let Me Love Again)," which went to No. 1 in 11 countries. The next decade brought such hits as "After the Lovin'," "Winter World of Love," "Am I That Easy To Forget," "There Goes My Everything," "This Moment In Time," and "A Man Without Love." As a seasoned performer and singer extraordinaire, Humperdinck continues to captivate audiences with his ultra smooth charisma and inspiring collection of ballades. He has recorded more than 80 albums in his 40-year career including many multi-language versions, selling more than 150 million records worldwide—64 gold and 24 platinum albums. Humperdinck has performed for Her Majesty the Queen, several Presidents, and many Heads of State. In 1978, he received many accolades including the "Georgie Award" from the American Guild of Variety Artists recognizing his as "Entertainer of the Year." In 1988, his performance of "One World" was seen by over 5 billion people around the globe, kicking off the Seoul Summer Olympics. He has also used his fame to raise funds for numerous charitable causes. Tickets are available now and are priced from $54.95, plus tax. Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075, or visiting www.orleanscasino.com.
* * * * * * * Art Vargas brings his fifties-style lounge flair to Addison's Lounge inside Rampart Casino, 221 N. Rampart Blvd., tonight (Friday, February 26th) and tomorrow night at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 4 p.m. The performances include tributes to legendary stars of the Las Vegas Strip, including Bobby Darin, Elvis, and Frank Sinatra. Singing since the age of 12, Vargas has developed a love for the classic music of the 1940s, ‘50s, and ‘60s eras. Vargas was asked to portray Bobby Darin in Legends in Concert after a casting agent saw him at a Detroit nightclub. After performing as a principal in Legends for eight years, Vargas moved on to an individual entertainer on the club and lounge circuit, playing venues in Atlantic City, Myrtle Beach and Branson, Missouri. Dressed in era-styled suits, Vargas brings his enthusiasm and energy to the stage while belting out the timeless hits. Vargas has received positive reviews for his act, winning "Best Singer/ Performer" from Las Vegas Review-Journal and "Most Exciting Performer" from Vegas.com. Admission is $10 at the cage, and $15 at the door, and includes one complimentary drink. * * * * * * * The UNLV Department of Music presents the 10th Annual African-American Music Celebration on Sunday, February 28 at 6 p.m. in Doc Rando Concert Hall located on the northeast end of the university campus in Beam Music Building. More than 100 performers - UNLV vocal students, ensembles, and solo performances by undergraduate and graduate voice majors - will participate in this annual celebration of the African-American experience. A variety of spirituals and freedom songs will be performed, including "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," "Walk Together Children" and "I Want To Be Ready." Featured performers include the UNLV Spiritual Ensemble, UNLV Dance Ensemble, and Vocal Area soloists. The Legacy High Madrigal Singers, conducted by William McKoy and the UNLV Dance Ensemble choreographed by Richard Havey, also will appear. There is no charge to attend this performance. * * * * * * * 
Joe Williams by Ed Foster 
Michel Legrand Sadly, it looks like there will be no Joe Williams Concert this year...at least not at in April or May, when it usually takes place. Why? Because the team that puts the annual event together, was unable to get a room to hold it in. These concerts, done to raise money for College of Southern Nevada music scholarships, have been going on for about 20 years, with folks like Jack Jones, Robert Goulet, Ruth Brown, Marlena Shaw, Julius LaRosa, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Bob Anderson and Artie Butler, among those lending their talents. It was hoped that this years' effort, with Diane Schuur scheduled to headline, would add another paragraph to the legend that is jazz singer Joe Williams. Perhaps, some benevolent hotel mogul will come forward to offer a suitable room or theater, for a spring concert date in 2010. Before he passed away in Las Vegas in 1999, Williams had called this city home for many years. Joe's widow, Jillean, still resides here and is a familiar sight at many of the local music offerings. * * * * * * * 
Steve Lawrence 
Patti Page Three-time Oscar and five-time GRAMMY Award-winner, Michel Legrand, will perform a tribute to his 50 years of music and movies at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday, March 27th. Over the course of his 50-year career, Legrand has composed more than 200 film and television scores as well as several musicals. Legrand was only 22 years old when his first album, I Love Paris, became one of the best-selling instrumental albums ever released. He is a virtuoso jazz and classical pianist as well as accomplished arranger and conductor who performs with orchestras worldwide. Hosted by actors Jon Voight and Jennifer O'Neil, during the show, Legrand will conduct a 66-piece orchestra and perform with many of his superstar friends such as Jack Jones, Roberta Flack, Dionne Warwick, Steve Lawrence, Melissa Manchester, Neil Sedaka, Jerry Lewis, Andy Williams, George Benson and Patti Page. The event will pay musical tribute to some of Legrand's Academy Award-winning MGM movies, including Yentl, The Thomas Crown Affair and Summer of ‘42. The superstar extravaganza also will be captured on film for a made-for-TV-special to air at a later date. "I am thrilled to have the honor to produce and work with Michel Legrand and such an ensemble cast," said Vincent Vellardita, producer and president of Valencia Entertainment. "Legrand is a musical genius and for many years has touched people in all age groups with his work. We have commitments from some of the biggest names in the industry to take part in this television special and we look forward to announcing them in the next few weeks." Legrand recorded more than 100 albums with international musical stars who span the genres of jazz, variety, and classical, to name a few. He has worked with such diverse musicians as Phil Woods, Ray Charles, Perry Como, Neil Diamond, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Lena Horne, James Ingram, Jack Jones, Frankie Laine, Tereza Kesovija, Johnny Mathis, Jessye Norman, Diana Ross, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Sarah Vaughan and Regine Velasquez, Tony Bennett, Liza Minnelli and Alan and Marilyn Bergman. Legrand has earned an Emmy nomination, 13 Oscar nominations which resulted in the three victories as well as the five GRAMMY Awards. The event is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are priced at $150, $85 and $62.50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and will be sold at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
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Tags: Woody Allen Gilda Radner Peter Sellers Three Stooges Bill Fayne Louie Ander
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - February 19, 2010 
Mike Corda 
Robert Goulet 
Jon Peterson Longtime Las Vegan, Mike Corda, passed away last Saturday, February 18th, at the age of 88.
He attended the New York College of Music and proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. The award-winning ASCAP composer, musician, bandleader, music producer and publisher, began his career as a musician on Broadway. In the late 1940s, he played bass in the original orchestra for Kiss Me, Kate. As a writer, Corda's body of work includes musical productions and several hundred songs, including those written for Bill Haley and The Comets, Sammy Davis Jr., Nancy Wilson, Lou Rawls, Mickey Rooney, Robert Goulet, and Wayne Newton. Among Corda's many writing collaborators were Academy Award-winning lyricist, Paul Francis Webster ("Secret Love" from Calamity Jane, "Love Is a Many Splendored Thing" from the film of the same name, and "The Shadow of Your Smile" from The Sandpiper; Johnny Mercer (who won Oscars for "Moon River" from Breakfast at Tiffany's, "Days Of Wine and Roses," "In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening" from Here Comes the Groom, and "On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe" from The Harvey Girls), and Johnny Burke ("Pennies From Heaven," "Polka Dots and Moonbeams," "Swinging On a Star"). After moving his family to Las Vegas in 1963, Mike enjoyed many years as a musician at the Sands, the Dunes (where he was the bandleader), the Landmark and many other Strip hotels. As an ex-Marine, a personal high point came in 1995 when the lyric to his patriotic tune, "America I Love You So," was recited by Senator Harry Reid and included in the Congressional Record. On his 80th birthday, Mayor Oscar Goodman declared "Mike Corda Day" in the city of Las Vegas. Until recently, music lovers could catch Corda at Charlie Palmer Steak at the Four Seasons, where he played piano every weekend, performing great standards as well as his own songs. Those who have been around Las Vegas since the '70s, probably remember when, in the wee small hours of the morning, KLAS-TV Channel 8 would go off the air for a few hours. As they signed off for the night, a beautiful song, "The Green Years of Love," sung by the late Robert Goulet (also a longtime Vegas resident) would be played. That song was a Mike Corda tune. Some years ago, Mr. Corda gave Cousin Claire a CD called Saddam's Lament (I'm Rotten and Other Famous Songs), described as "A Tribute To Our Freedom Fighters." The tunesmith's talent touched each of the numbers. Among the selections on the recording were "You Perfect Stranger," sung by the late Jimmy Hassell; "The Usual Thing" by Michael Dees; "Buffet," by Jeneane Marie; "The Rotten," by Eric Michael Gillett; "The Devil, The Damned & Demon Rum," by Billy T (Tragesser); and "We Are the Dreamers" (in collaboration with Webster), by Dyanna Whitman. As far as we know, this CD was never marketed to the public. Mike is survived by his wife, Helen Corda; daughters, Dr. Betty Donskoy, Julie Corda and Nikki Corda; sister, Estelle Abrams; and grandchildren, Natalie Donskoy, Peter Rakow, Alexa Rakow, Alexander Donskoy and Nolan Rakow. A memorial service was held for Mike Corda, yesterday at the Stirling Club. * * * * * * * Multi-talented, multi-award-winning song and dance man, Broadway veteran Jon Peterson, brings his extraordinary show, Song Man, Dance Man: A One Man Show About the One Man Shows, to Las Vegas for an afternoon performance at the Clark County Flamingo Library on Sunday, February 28th. Song Man, Dance Man is a tribute to the great song-and-dance men who inspired Peterson - Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor, who each brought their unique excellence that revolutionized the movie musical; George M. Cohan, who invented the song and dance man; Bobby Darin, a consummate entertainer whose meteoric rise to stardom ended too soon; Sammy Davis Jr., considered by many to be the ultimate showman; and Anthony Newley, whose eccentric, Cockney brilliance shook the musical world. These men stood alone and defined their craft. This intimate, one man musical revue is merely an acknowledgment of that greatness. The London-born performers' credits include co-starring in Half A Sixpence at Goodspeed Opera House, the national tour of Cabaret (as the emcee), George M. Cohan Tonight! (as George M) at Irish Rep, The World Goes Round (as Man #1), The Rocky Horror Show (Frank 'n' Furter), A Chorus Line (Paul) West End and UK national tours, The Sound of Music (Rolf) with Petula Clark, Have a Heart (Henry), Dames At Sea (Lucky), She Loves Me (Bus Boy), Sophisticated Ladies, Cavalcade (Joey), Whooop-Dee-Doo! (revue), On Your Toes, Cats (Skimbleshanks/Mistofolees) and BLITZ! (Georgie). Feature films include Anna Ballerina, Mail Order Wife, Surviving Picasso, and Chish 'N' Fips, and TV credits include The Bill, Inmates and Out On Thursday. Jon has made cabaret and concert appearances with Ruthie Henshall, Michael Ball, Bonnie Langford, Stephen Brinberg, and Chita Rivera, and in solo shows, Comes Love and Skidoo! Peterson may be heard on the CD The Johnny Mercer Jamboree (Original Cast Records) and, of course, on the cast album of George M. Cohan Tonight! (Sh-K-Boom Records/Ghostlight Records). He is a Drama Desk Award nominee, Drama League honoree, National Broadway Theatre Award nominee, and Back Stage Bistro Award winner. Peterson's Song Man, Dance Man is creative and innovative in a manner rarely seen in a cabaret setting. If singing and dancing have thrilled you, and the rush that you get from that rare creature, the all-round entertainer, gives you chills, this show is made for you. This is a special event by one of today's most talented and dynamic entertainers. The Detroit News wrote, "Peterson is a phenomenon. He devours the stage. He vamps, slithers and burns energy like a comet plummeting to earth." And now, thanks to the Performing Arts Society of Nevada, Las Vegans can see Jon Peterson for themselves. At 2, next Sunday afternoon (February 28th), he will perform at the Clark County Library Theater, 1401 E. Flamingo, just east of Maryland Parkway. Tickets are only $15, and may be purchased by calling (702) 658-6741 or e-mailing to PASNV@aol.com. Tickets may also be bought at the library box office, an hour prior to show time, although, in this case, they may be sold out by then. In other words, make your plans sooner than later. 
Anthony Newley 
Jason Alexander 
Elaine Stritch 2009 * * * * * * * Tony Award winner Jason Alexander will perform in The Donny Clay Experience at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino's Chi Showroom, Thursday, the 25th, through Sunday the 28th, and again March 4th through 7th and the 11th through 14th. Alexander, best known for his role as "George Costanza" on the long-running TV series Seinfeld, will portray the character "Donny Clay," the world's fourth-best motivational speaker. The show is an interactive, partially improvised comedy romp that promises to be "full of comedy, music, self-help, and partial nudity." Alexander is currently the artistic director of L.A.'s Reprise Theatre Company. He won the Tony Award for Jerome Robbins' Broadway. Additional Broadway appearances include Merrily We Roll Along, The Rink, and Broadway Bound. For tickets, priced from $60.50 through $99, call (702) 785-5000, or (800) 745-3000. We have a feeling (and, after all, we are Claire Voyant) that these one person shows may become more prominent on the Las Vegas scene. Lily Tomlin, who made her first Las Vegas appearance in Not Playing With a Full Deck at the MGM Grand, is returning to Vegas for encore performances from March 11th through 17th...this time at Caesars Palace's Colosseum. Will actor Chazz Palminteri, who did his one person show, A Bronx Tale, over a 10 day period at The Venetian in October, be back for round two? And if these shows prove to be saleable and successful, can Billy Crystal's Tony-winning 700 Sundays be far behind? And, how about Martin Short in Fame Becomes Me, or, the now, 84-year-old Elaine Stritch in her Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning, At Liberty? * * * * * * * Proud father, Arnold Pierce (and, NO, he did not add a new member to his family), the new music teacher at Lewis E. Rowe Elementary School in southeast Las Vegas, wanted to let those in the community (and elsewhere) who didn't already know, that his oldest son, David Pierce, is the Music Director for the Vancouver Olympics. ALL of the pre-recorded and live music that you have heard, or will hear, for the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as the medal presentations, was composed and/or arranged by David. You may have even seen him conducting the symphony. Several weeks ago, David told his father that he had just completed 500 hours of conducting the Vancouver Symphony in both rehearsals and recording sessions. He also informed his dad that this year's ceremonies will have a greater variety of music (fiddlers, big band, etc) than in the past. During the summer, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Pierce had the privilege of watching their son at work in the recording studio as he prepared for this major event. As a Christmas gift, David generously gave his parents two tickets (at $1200 each) for the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics, so they could experience it all, live and in person. If you looked very closely, you may have seen the smiling Las Vegans waving to the cameras. And speaking of the Lewis E. Rowe school, a number of local personalities, including comic magician Mac King (afternoons at Harrah's), Gary Waddell (longtime KLAS-TV Channel 8 news anchor), and the ladies behind the Handy Girls concept, Mary Marcella Schwartz and Barbara Ciarlantini, will be among those lending their voices to share with the students the importance of the written word, when they take part in Nevada Reading Week next month. We will have more about this worthwhile project, including the names of other readers, in a few weeks. 
Mac King & Neil deGrasse Tyson 
Mark Winkler by Martin Kreloff And speaking of Mac King, on February 11th, the comedy-magician was interviewed by renowned American astrophysicist, director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York, Neil deGrasse Tyson, at Harrah's Las Vegas. The interview will air in an upcoming episode of the PBS series, NOVA scienceNOW. King has been recognized with numerous accolades including "Favorite Male Las Vegan," "Best Bargain Show" by the Las Vegas-Review Journal 2009 Best of Las Vegas readers' poll, "Funniest Act in Magic Today" by Magic Magazine, "Magician of the Year" by The Magic Castle, and "Entertainer of the Year" by the Las Vegas Weekly "Readers Choice Awards." King, one of today's brightest and most talented magicians, takes the stage at Harrah's Las Vegas Showroom Theatre, twice daily, Tuesday through Saturday, at 1 and 3 p.m. Tickets are $24.95 plus tax. Additional information on The Mac King Comedy Magic Show can be found by visiting www.mackingshow.com. * * * * * * * We had a delightful time at the Summerlin Library Theatre last Sunday afternoon, where we saw platinum award winning singer/lyricist, Mark Winkler, and jazz performer/recording artist, Judy Wexler, in a program called, appropriate for the date, My Funny Valentine. Backed by the outstanding David Loeb Trio, with David Loeb on piano, Derek Jones on bass, and John Abraham on drums, Winkler, who has written songs recorded and/or sung by Dianne Reeves, Randy Crawford, Liza Minnelli, Bob Dorough and Lea Salonga, performed some of his own works ("Till I Get It Right," "How Can That Make You Fat?," "Cool," with Wexler, and "In a Lonely Place"), as well as familiar favorites, including "I'm Old Fashioned/Our Love Is Here To Stay," Steve Allen's "Spring Is Where You Are," and from his Bobby Troup CD, "Hungry Man" and "The Three Bears." Among the songs Ms. Wexler sang were, "It Might As Well Be Spring," "Hum Drum Blues," "Love Is a Necessary Evil" and "My Foolish Heart." Among those enjoying the program, presented by The Vegas Jazz Society, we spotted artist Martin Kreloff, who did the artwork for the back of Winkler's Tales of Hollywood recording (see accompanying photo). * * * * * * * Look for a big feature story on F.I.O.R.E. (Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events) in this Sunday's edition of the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Nelson Sardelli, who started this whole thing, and does his level best to keep the non-club club organized, feels that after this article hits the streets, some of the Presidents (all the men in F.I.O.R.E. are Presidents) may have to go, as the group may become too classy (sorry, guys). Sardelli offers a big thank you to R-J reporter, John Przybys, whose byline accompanies the F.I.O.R.E. tale. In gratitude, Nelson thinks we should get Przybys some vowels for his last name, asking "If anyone has Vanna White's phone number, to please let him know." 
Nelson Sardelli 
Don Rickles 
George Bugatti * * * * * * * Comedian, Don Rickles, will launch his 51st consecutive year as a Las Vegas headliner when he brings his one-of-a-kind humor to the 827-seat Orleans Showroom, tomorrow and Sunday. This engagement marks his third consecutive year of performances at The Orleans. Rickles took his first step toward national fame in 1957 when Frank Sinatra wandered into the small Hollywood nightclub where Rickles was performing. The still-unknown Rickles eyed Sinatra and said, "I just saw your movie, The Pride and the Passion, and I want to tell you, the cannon's acting was great. Make yourself at home, Frank. Hit somebody." Sinatra doubled up laughing and became one of Rickles' biggest boosters. Rickles soon became the "in" comic among Hollywood stars, who flocked to his nightclub engagements to become the targets of his insults. As a star-struck kid in New York City, Rickles aspired to share the big screen with such greats as Clark Gable and James Cagney. His wish came true in 1958, when he appeared in Run Silent Run Deep, starring Clark Gable. Rickles went on to receive critical praise for his villainous performance in 1960's, The Rat Race. During a period between acting assignments, Rickles tried and succeeded at stand-up comedy. Audiences laughed harder at his impromptu insults than at his prepared material, and Rickles' legend as the king of insult comics was born. Rickles has also starred in films and television shows, including Casino, Kelly's Heroes, Gilligan's Island, The Andy Griffith Show, Get Smart, Toy Story and Toy Story 2, and most recently, the CBS hit series The Unit. Rickles won two Primetime Emmy Awards, including the 2008 HBO special Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project for Best Individual Performance in a Variety or Musical. Opening for Rickles is singer/musician/recording artist, George Bugatti. Discovered by the late Steve Allen, while he was performing at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, Bugatti became The Tonight Show host/songwriters' protégé and friend. Allen even produced Bugatti's first CD, Oh, What A Night For Love, and then invited him to appear in the stage version of the old Tonight Show, along with original cast members, Jonathan Winters, Louie Nye, and Bill Dana, at venues like the House of Blues in Los Angeles, and the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. Bugatti made his concert debut in Los Angeles with the legendary Tony Bennett, who, in an unprecedented gesture, pulled the young singer out of the audience to perform three songs. Bugatti started studying music at the age of five, and later attended the prestigious High School of Performing Arts in New York, followed by the highly competitive Julliard College where he honed his skills as a classical pianist, a complex gift which today deepens his interpretation of jazz music. Bugatti had been performing at the Peninsula for seven years - from the hotel's grand opening in 1991 to 1998, when Las Vegas hotel casino owner, Steve Wynn, another Peninsula guest and Bugatti fan, invited Bugatti, along with Michael Feinstein and John Pizzerelli, to open Wynn's Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas. After two years as a featured performer at Bellagio, Bugatti recorded Bugatti Live on the Strip, which was released in 2000 on Paul Anka Productions. In 2001, Bugatti's next move was to headline with his big band at the Sands in Atlantic City. In 2002, George received critical acclaim for his December 12th New York City debut at Carnegie Hall, where he performed again on May 14th, 2003. His latest CD, A Night for Romance, distributed by Universal, was produced by Nigel Wright, former music producer of the FOX TV show, American Idol. George has been featured in Rolling Stone and Los Angeles magazines, the Los Angeles Times, and Entertainment Weekly. National Television features include, EXTRA, Hardcopy, and NBC and CBS news in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. George, who in addition to singing standards, also performs songs from the '50s, '60s and '70s. He has also starred in Wizard - The Musical Story of Oz Composer Harold Arlen, which has toured around the country. His business partner, Sam Arlen, composer Harold Arlen's son, also stars in this Broadway-bound show (www.wizardthemusical.com). George is the Founder and Vice President of the Harold Arlen Foundation www.haroldarlenfoundation.org. Tickets for Don Rickles, and special guest George Bugatti, are available, starting from $74.95, plus tax. Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075 or visiting www.orleanscasino.com. * * * * * * * On March 6th, the showroom at the Suncoast will be the site of a variety show to raise funds for Bill Fayne. Over the past 30 years, Fayne has been musical director of more than 50 musical theater productions, operas, and TV shows. He has appeared as a guest conductor with the Atlanta, Columbus, Delaware, and even his home town, Buffalo's, symphony orchestras.
As an arranger, Bill has worked with Clint Holmes, Suzanne Somers, Gloria Loring, Ann Jillian, Hal Linden, Mickey Rooney, and Kathie Lee Gifford. Bill has appeared on television in Bob Hope specials, Dick Clark productions, on the Tonight Show and the Joan Rivers Show, among others. His musical association with Clint Holmes spans 24 years. They have a friendship that goes back to their college days, where they first met. The pair has traveled the world making music, creating shows, and sharing some very wonderful experiences. Together, Bill and Clint have created production revues for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and Trump Plaza in Atlantic City. They collaborated on a musical, Just Another Man, based on Clint's life. Fayne spent 10 summers in Monte Carlo as musical director for the famed Sporting Club. He and Jean-Peirre Reggiori conducted and co-created 16 shows for full orchestra and with a cast of 25 singers and dancers. Bill has written theme songs for television shows, including the NBC series Jennifer Slept Here and Ann Jillian. Bill is also the founder and member of the Las Vegas Tenors. Fayne has been unable to work since November, when he underwent esophageal surgery at UC Irvine Medical Center in Southern California. With no complications, Bill was expected to be back in Las Vegas around December 3rd. Unfortunately, there were complications, which resulted in his having to be put into a drug induced coma. He wound up spending 31 days in the California hospital. Although he is now back in Las Vegas, Fayne is not yet able to return to work. Needless to say, although the income stops, the bills don't. We hope to have more details on this gathering of talented friends in next week's column. 
Bill Fayne 
Bob Anderson 
Jerry Ritholz-Jarvis & Ray Jarvis * * * * * * * Reminder...
Society of Seven and American Idol star Jasmine Trias have discontinued their 3:30 shows and are now performing at 7 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in the Gold Coast Showroom. The very entertaining high-energy variety show combines comedy sketches, celebrity impersonations, dance and live music performances, featuring popular standards, Top 40 and Broadway numbers interpreted by a cast of show business pros. Tickets start at $29.95, plus tax. To purchase, call the Gold Coast Box Office at (702) 251-3574 or visit www.goldcoastcasino.com. The Gold Coast is located at 4000 W. Flamingo Road. We strongly recommend SOS for those seeking a reasonably priced 90-minutes of fun, good old-fashioned entertainment. Also, as mentioned in our January 29th column, it's a Bob Anderson and Tony Bennett weekend in Las Vegas. Bob will be at The Cannery in the north part of the city, and Bennett performs east of the Strip at the Hilton. Tickets for Bennett range from $79 to $109, plus taxes and fees. Tickets for Bob Anderson are $10, period. The one catch with the bargain priced ticket is that there are no reservations. It's first come, first served. In other words, if you want to see singing impressionist, show up EARLY. His Friday and Saturday shows start at 8 p.m.
For Tony Bennett reservations, call (702) 732-5755. * * * * * * * When we wrote about the Celebration of Life to honor the memory of the late Ray Jarvis in our February 5th column , we left out some names of folks who should have been mentioned. We will do that now, as well as include a nice photo of Ray and his life partner, Jerry Ritholz-Jarvis. Among those missing from the first list (a number who traveled a great distance to be here) were Clyde Atkisson and Max Gray (it was Max who collaborated with Jerry on the preparation of a commemorative DVD, honoring Ray and given to the party attendees and mailed to friends around the world); John and Rosey Brockhouse, Bill Burdsall and Mike Wirick; sisters, Patty and Kathy Kersey; Kirk Campbell; Ron and Ingy DeBouver; Mary Demos; Rene Diamond; Phil and Adele Engel; Bobby and Geri Engel; Jerry Fertaw and Buddy Spater; Jan and Beverly Frazier; Dale Gayan and Marvin Coughlin; George and Dori Gilbert; Richard Grappone; Warren Hayes; Muriel Ives; Sally Magneson and Richard Weisbroad; Avril Melton and Janice Jang; Edna Miner; Connie Solazzo; Jerry and Jeannie Parker; Jack Plevo; John and Lillian Skerratt; Don Watson and Noel Orr Watson; Wayne Weiswasser and Steve Pound; Robert Wolff; and Dr. Russell and Lisa Gollard. Ray, who had been an entertainer, died in July, following a 14-year battle with cancer. * * * * * * * It's that time of the month again (no, not THAT time), when the musical community gets together to celebrate the incredible creativity of the composers and songwriters in our community. On Thursday, at 10:30 p.m., it's February's Composers Showcase night at the Liberace Museum. Among the locals whose works are being featured in this month's showcase are Bryan Chan, Dennis Edwards, Amos Glick, Larry Hart, Jon Peterson (here from New York for his show at the Flamingo Library Theatre, as mentioned elsewhere in this column), Phillip Seaton, Keith Thompson, William Waldrop and Robert Williamson. Vocalists will include the talented song stylings of Raymond del Barrio, Kristen Hertzenberg, Sarah Lowe, Rebecca Spencer and Nikka Wahl. Supplying the always top-notch instrumental accompaniment, are the amazing Dan Falcone, Philip Fortenberry, Don Meoli, Kevin Stout, Matt Taylor, Eric Tewalt and Tyler Williams. The sound technicians are Richard Camuso and Mary McFadden. There is a $5 cover charge at the door (free admission with student ID), a cash bar (no credit cards, please), and a $5 late night special at the Liberace Café. The mission of the Liberace Foundation is to help talented students pursue careers in the performing and creative arts through scholarship assistance. The Liberace Cabaret Showroom is located at 1775 E. Tropicana (and Spencer) next to Carluccio's Tivoli Gardens Restaurant. 
Dan Falcone 
Wayne Newton 
Kathryn Grayson 1966 And speaking of Rebecca Spencer and Philip Fortenberry, the original "Madame Giry" in Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular who now makes her home outside of Seattle, Washington, and Mr. Fortenberry, the associate conductor for the Vegas production of Jersey Boys, will perform a concert on March 13th called Broadway Passages at the intimate Blue Heron Art Center on idyllic Vashon Island. Philip, Rebecca's longtime collaborator and Music Director/Pianist, will be flying in from his "day job" to join her onstage. Tickets for the 8 p.m. performance are priced at $15 and $17, and include complimentary champagne and desserts. Seating is limited and no one under 21 will be admitted. Tickets may be purchased thru Brown Paper Tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/99610. In addition, Becky and her husband, Jim D'Asaro, Executive Director of Seattle's Broadway Bound Children's Theatre, will be hosting an "after party" at their Quartermaster Harbor home. To get to Vashon Island, one (or two or three) takes the Ferry from Fauntleroy (15 minutes south of downtown Seattle). Ferries heading to the Island leave at 4:20, 5:20, 6 and 7 p.m. The trip takes 20 minutes across the Sound. After the show, ferries returning to Fauntleroy leave at 10:45 p.m, 12:05 and 1:20 a.m., stopping in Southworth on their way back. There are some delightful bed and breakfast spots on the island, many of which are offering off-season discounts. So make it a mini "staycation" if the idea appeals to you! The Blue Heron Art Center is located at 19704 Vashon Highway SW. For more information, call (206) 463-5131. * * * * * * * The public is invited to attend the Las Vegas Perspective: Reflections of the African-American Artist exhibit, which opened last Friday at the Bridge Gallery in Las Vegas City Hall, located at 400 Stewart Ave. This exhibit is free and open to the public. The exhibit features artwork from the following local artists: Abraham Abebe, Dayo Adelaja, Harold Bradford, Sylvester Collier, Lolita Develay, Vicki Richardson, Lance Smith, Mario Smith and Joseph Watson. The exhibit runs through April 23rd, and is presented by the city of Las Vegas. Abebe was born and raised in Ethiopia. He came to the United States at the end of 2003. He received an Associate of Art degree at Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno, in 2007. In 2010, he will receive his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at UNLV. Adelaja received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from West Virginia University in Morgantown. He received his Master of Arts degree, also in Graphic Design, at California State University in Los Angeles. He presently works as an art specialist with the Clark County School District. Bradford was born and raised in New Orleans. He began his interest in art at age three. He earned both Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Fine Arts degrees. He has worked both as a commercial designer and fine artist and has spent more than 28 years as a designer in the sign industry, including seven years as an art director. Collier was born in 1931 in Dallas, Texas, and is now a resident of Las Vegas. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in painting and printmaking from UNLV and his master's in education from Lesley College in Cambridge, Mass. He taught secondary art with the Clark County School District for many years. He has been in numerous exhibits over the past 35 years. Develay was born in the small California town of Pearblossom, the daughter of a Tuskeegee airman and a homemaker. She spent 20 years in the advertising industry before committing to her true passion of painting. She currently resides in Las Vegas and will receive her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at UNLV in December 2010. Richardson received her undergraduate degree from Fisk University in Nashville and her master's degree from the University of Chicago. She is owner and director of the Left of Center Art Gallery. Richardson has been a resident of Las Vegas for 28 years and a teacher in the Clark County School District for 18 years. Lance Smith was born in 1988 in Dayton, Ohio. Presently he is working toward his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at UNLV. Since 2007, he has exhibited his work in approximately 24 group/ invitational exhibits. Mario Smith is a native Bahamian and was raised in the Bahamas and Holland. As an artist, he is primarily self-taught. His art is based on his experiences living in different cultures and his imagination. Watson grew up in Gardena, Calif., a small city south of Los Angeles, but now resides in Las Vegas. In 1994, he received a degree in commercial art at Los Angeles Trade Technical College. Since then, has earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Calif. The Bridge Gallery is located on the second floor of City Hall, near the information desk. Visitors may enter through the breezeway from the second floor of the parking garage, which is on the southwest corner of Fourth Street and Stewart Avenue. Parking is by paid meter only. The gallery is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Call (702) 229-1012 for more information. * * * * * * * For those who wonder why, at almost 68, Wayne Newton would want to work on a fulltime basis (he is currently at the Tropicana in Las Vegas), based on these recent news stories, we would say it is more than just ego in play here. recent Las Vegas Sun article states that a lawsuit has been filed against the singer, claiming he is behind on a $3.3 million loan. The suit is asking to foreclose on the Vegas property which Newton named Casa de Shenandoah. It states that Newton asked for help securing the loan and said it would be secured by the property and Newton's private jet. Not too surprisingly, the singer could not be reached for comment. And from the "Queen of All Media," Perez Hilton's Web site, comes this report...Earlier this month, we told you about Wayne Newton abandoning his plane at a Detroit-area airport after leaving it there for work over three years ago and then failing to pay for its storage, owing a total of about $30,000. And now to make matters worse, Mr. Las Vegas is facing foreclosure! Newton's former friend, Las Vegas Motor Speedway executive O. Bruton Smith, is suing the performer for a delinquent loan on $3.35 MILLION! According to the suit, back in March 2006 Newton asked Smith to help guarantee a $3.75 million loan from Bank of America, which was later was modified to a $3.35 million loan. Newton wanted to refinance some existing debt and used his 38-acre ranch and a $2 million private jet to secure the loan. However, the loan needed to be repaid by May 30, 2009, but the Newtons didn't live up to their end. And according to the suit: "Defendant Newton informed plaintiff Smith that he considered Smith's personal guaranty of the loan as a formality and that the Newtons and Desert Eagle would sell personal assets to pay off the loan before allowing B of A to pursue Smith for repayment of the loan." So Smith then purchased the loan from BoA last October and then in November sent notice to Newton to repay him. The suit claims at the time of the loan, Newton knew he wouldn't be able to repay it even with his assets, so Smith is claiming intentional fraud. The Tropicana better give him a pay raise or he needs to find a second job. But pay up!" And from the Detroit Free Press, in an article written by Melanie D. Scott and posted on February 5th, comes this...Airport: Newton owes $61,000 on moldy jet - Boarding fees go unpaid for 3 years. Entertainer Wayne Newton is being accused of abandoning his private jet at the Oakland International Airport in Waterford three years ago and racking up more than $61,000 in boarding fees. A lien has been placed on Newton's Fokker-F28, but it would cost the airport about $30,000 to get rid of the aircraft, which has been parked outside and now is rotting and filled with mold, said Joe Borgesen, president of the airport. "You can't just park a plane and let it sit for years," he said. "The engine has to run at least once a month." Although Newton initially paid parking fees ranging from $600 to $700 monthly, officials said he stopped after the airport underwent renovations about two years ago. That's when parking fees increased to about $5,000 a month. Newton could not be reached for comment. A public relations firm listed on his Web site said they no longer represent him. The airplane was flown into the airport five years ago, but spent two years at a nearby shop undergoing $2 million worth of repairs and interior renovations. After disputes involving the renovations were settled, the plane was moved to the airport, Borgesen said. Newton's representatives had prospective buyers look at the plane 10 months ago, and it was discovered that the jet was rotting, he said. "I like to believe the best in everybody and take people at their word, but we're fed up," Borgesen said.
Personally, we have always found it interesting, in a "this just doesn't sound right" kind of way, that, although Newton's 1992 bankruptcy seriously impacted a number of small businesses and their owners, it didn't appear that the entertainer's lifestyle changed in any way. (Maybe having a wife who is an attorney helps.) He still had the big estate in southeast Las Vegas, high profile vehicles, his own plane and many other "toys" usually associated with great wealth (we don't know what became of the helicopter that used to sit in his front yard). That Chapter 11 bankruptcy listed more than $20 million in debt. A few years later the onetime "Mr. Las Vegas" signed a new contract with the Stardust Hotel which reportedly paid him more than $25 million per year for performing at the hotel, 40 weeks a year for 10 years. In August of 2005, the Review-Journal reported that Newton then owed the Internal Revenue Service more than $1.8 million in taxes and penalties, according to court filings in Washington, D.C. The IRS says Newton and his wife owe for, among other things, failing to report the sale of an Arabian horse and wrongfully claiming losses on antique car sales. The IRS said Newton failed to report all income and took improper deductions from 1997 through 2000. The federal agency outlined its claims in an April 13 notice of deficiency that prompted Newton to file a 32-page response July 6 in Tax Court in Washington. Lavar Taylor, one of the entertainer's tax lawyers, disputed that Newton owes the government. If anything, Taylor said Monday, "We believe the IRS owes him money." Taylor declined to say how much the IRS owes Newton or why. The government has 60 days to file an answer to Newton's response. "That's when we will find out who the government attorney is and we're hoping they are realistic," Taylor said. Taylor declined to comment on Newton's reactions to the IRS claims. Newton's publicist could not be reached after hours for comment Monday. This is not the first time Newton has had to deal with the IRS regarding a tax dispute. In 1992 he filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to reorganize an estimated $20 million in debts, including a $341,000 Internal Revenue Service lien for back taxes. The IRS claims in its April filing that Newton and his wife owe $104,965 in taxes and $20,993 in penalties for 1997, $576,874 in taxes and $115,374.80 in penalties for 1998, $324,658 in taxes and $64,931.60 in penalties for 1999, $512,065 in taxes and $86,342.40 in penalties for 2000. Among its claims, the IRS charges Newton failed to report $200,000 he received for the sale of an Arabian horse in 2000. Newton also should not have claimed a $51,950 loss the same year on the sale of two antique cars, the agency said. The IRS also claims the entertainer and his wife, Katherine, did not report dividends received from Newton's company, Erin Miel Inc., in 1999 and 2000. The agency said the dividends totaled $396,113 in 1999 and $536,532 in 2000. "The payments were made for the personal benefit of yourself and your family, so they are taxable as gross receipts," the IRS document said. The IRS alleged Newton wrongfully listed personal and family expenses as business costs -- $90,899 in 1997 and $143,881 in 1998. For the four years ending in 2000, Newton listed automobile and truck expenses totaling $67,344. The IRS disallowed the entire amount, claiming Newton did not establish the costs as "ordinary and necessary" business expenses. Newton listed interest expenses of $750,411 for the four years ending in 2000. The IRS claims the total should have been $75,034. Meals and entertainment expenses of $6,416 Newton listed in 1999 were disallowed because of inadequate records. The agency also said Newton overstated expenses for salaries, wages and payroll taxes for security guards and maids at his residence.
For those that question how someone of Wayne's apparent wealth could find himself in such a situation, we say it's simple mathematics. If you earn $25 million a year, and spend $50, these things can, and do, happen. * * * * * * * Kathryn Grayson, whose beauty and lilting soprano voice brightened such popular MGM musicals of the 1940s and '50s as Anchors Aweigh, Show Boat and Kiss Me Kate, died on Wednesday at the age of 88. Other Grayson musicals included Two Sisters from Boston, Ziegfeld Follies, Till the Clouds Roll By, That Midnight Kiss, The Toast of New Orleans, Lovely to Look At, The Desert Song, and So This Is Love. In the late 1960s, Kathryn Grayson and her Showboat co-star, Howard Keel, appeared in Las Vegas, performing in the Fiesta Room of the Fremont Hotel. She later performed at the Sahara and Riviera hotels here. Some years ago (probably in the mid-1980s), Ms. Grayson was scheduled to appear at the Dunes, where she was to co-star with a Mario Lanza-style singer. For unknown reasons, she never did that engagement. Instead, comic Jackie Vernon shared the bill with the male singer. * * * * * * * February 12th New York Times Music Review by Stephen Holden for This Thing Called Love... Flowing Along With Love's Chemical Forces
Although it has its share of lovey-dovey moments, "This Thing Called Love," Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano's Valentine's Day show at the Oak Room of the Algonquin Hotel does not succumb to the usual seasonal clichés of throbbing hearts and flowers and kissy-poo cuteness. The program is a witty, his-and-hers exploration of romantic chemistry by a couple whose musical portrayal of their five-year marriage goes out of its way to celebrate each partner's individuality. A suave bistro performer in the Bobby Short mold, Mr. Comstock is so at ease at the keyboard that his pop-jazz pianism and understated vocals fuse into a civilized, erudite musical stream of consciousness, which at Tuesday's opening night show was ably abetted by Sean Smith on bass. Even a song like "Tonight," from "West Side Story," that is usually done operatically, was toned down so that you could actually consider the words. Ms. Fasano might be described as a friendly Lena Horne. She has many of Ms. Horne's mannerisms but not her hauteur and seething anger. If Mr. Comstock shuns melodrama, Ms. Fasano allows just a little. At once anxious and dreamy, her rendition of "Joey, Joey, Joey," from "The Most Happy Fella," evoked premarital wanderlust and youthful naïveté that are a subtheme of the show. Mr. Comstock joked that while he was growing up in the "mayonnaise belt" of northern New Jersey his junior high school years were lonely because his peers didn't share his precocious enthusiasm for Mr. Short, Mabel Mercer and Noel Coward. "The Great City," a little-known jazz song by Curtis R. Lewis, epitomized his quaintly glamorous fantasy of a big bad New York, in which "you're caught in whirlpool of East Side cafes where love is a cocktail of beards and berets." Ms. Fasano, who grew up on Long Island the youngest of four children, recalled making a trip to San Francisco when she was 21, and the Joni Mitchell song, "Cactus Tree," was her credo. As she sang a slowed-down jazz arrangement of Ms. Mitchell's portrait of a young woman who is "so busy being free" to marry any of her multiple suitors, she allowed a shade of disapproval to seep into her interpretation; that was then, this is now. Not one of the show's 20 songs --- some of them standards, others not --- received a rote performance. The final number, Philip Springer and Carolyn Leigh's Sinatra standard, "How Little We Know (How Little It Matters)," summed up the show's attitude of joyful mystification: "How little we understand what touches off that tingle/That sudden explosion when two tingles intermingle." 
Eric Comstock & Barbara Fasano 
Zero Gravity Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano will appear at the Oak Room of the Algonquin Hotel, 59 West 44th Street, in Manhattan, through March 6th.
Comstock and Fasano photo by Christian Johnstone. * * * * * * * If you want to get high, without breaking any laws, this might be one way to do so. On February 27th, Zero Gravity Corporation's (ZERO-G), G-FORCE ONE will take off from LAS Airport, offering fliers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to defy the laws of gravity. Guests will have the unique opportunity to float freely in complete weightlessness during ZERO-G's flight, the first and only FAA-approved provider of commercial weightless flights. Flying ZERO-G is a rare opportunity that only a select few have experienced, calling it amazing and life-changing. The Weightless Experience is an extraordinary and exciting luxury travel experience. It is the only opportunity on Earth for the general public to experience true "weightlessness" without going to space. ZERO-G guests will receive, Pre-flight training to maximize their ZERO-G Experience; Private transportation to/from McCarran Airport; ZERO-G flight suit and patch; Personal photography by a world-class photographer; Post-flight re-gravitation party; Weightless flight award certificate; Branded ZERO-G gifts and the chance to experience the rare and exalted state of weightlessness. The weightless flight is a journey that offers guests the chance to float like an astronaut. The exceptional adventure allows guests to fly like Superman, flip like an Olympic gymnast, and enjoy 10-times more hang-time than the world's best basketball player. It's not simulated; ZERO-G replicates the same levels of weightless-ness enjoyed on Mars (1/3-gravity), the moon (1/6-gravity), and zero gravity. It's an experience unlike any other. Martha Stewart, Joey Fatone, Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Dyrdek, Beatrice of York, Professor Stephen Hawking, Billy Bush, Gavin Newsom, Burt Rutan, Miles O'Brien, and cast members of The Apprentice and The Biggest Loser, are just a few notable passengers who have flown with ZERO-G and proclaimed it to be one of the most thrilling experiences of their lives. This is the identical weightless flight experience used by NASA to train its astronauts and used by Ron Howard and Tom Hanks to film Apollo-13. Flights last approximately two hours and deliver 15 separate weightless experiences, each lasting about 30 seconds. The ZERO-G Experience is offered at a price of $4,950 per seat plus tax. Zero Gravity Corporation (www.GoZeroG.com) is a privately held space entertainment and tourism company whose mission is to make the excitement and adventure of weightlessness accessible to the public. ZERO-G is based in Vienna, VA and is the first and only FAA-approved provider of weightless flight to the general public, as well as the entertainment and film industries; corporate and incentive market; non-profit research and education sectors; and government. Founded in 1993, ZERO-G is led by a world-class team of veteran astronauts and experienced business leaders. The company was co-founded by X PRIZE Chairman and space visionary, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis; veteran astronaut, Dr. Byron K. Lichtenberg, and NASA Engineer Ray Cronise. The team spent more than a decade working to bring the marvel of weightless flight to the public. Since launching the ZERO-G Experience in September 2004, the company has conducted more than 225 weightless flights and flown over 6,000 members of the public, including celebrities and media personalities, corporate charters, science and math teachers, and individuals age eight to 93. ZERO-G operates under the highest safety standards as set by the FAA (Part-121) with its partner Amerijet International of Ft. Lauderdale Florida. Aircraft operations take place under the same regulations set for large commercial passenger airliners. * * * * * * * 
Woody Woods 
Lina Koutrakos Hey Music Lovers, check this out! It's the 17-piece Woody Woods Orchestra, featuring Ms. Mickki Brown and Ms. Sophia Lelis, with some of the best musicians in the city. It's a dance and show and it's tomorrow at the historic Fifth Street School, 401 S. 4th Street. The fun starts at 8 p.m., and it's free. Go early for a good seat. The Cats will cooking, and they promise to 'knock your socks off.' You can dance, listen and/or sing along. Woody says, "I would love to see your face in the place." * * * * * * * Lina Koutrakos and Rick Jensen return to Las Vegas on February 23rd, 24th and 25th, to facilitate the second annual three day Performance Connection Intensive focusing on the art of song performance. Tim Schall is producer for the event. "We are thrilled to be able to present our workshop at The Cabaret at the Liberace Museum", says Schall. "This Las Vegas landmark provides the perfect place for our daytime working sessions and our evening performances for the public." Koutrakos' and Jensen's Performance Connection workshops bring the finest in song performance coaching to your city. These award winning New York Cabaret artists have been traveling to cities such as Chicago, Santa Fe, Washington DC and Boston, successfully offering high end professional development to singers in their hometowns. Don't pay for transportation and lodging to study with the country's best, let us come to you! Between them, the teaching team of Koutrakos and Jensen are the recipients of 9 MAC Awards, honoring excellence in New York cabaret, in addition to numerous other awards. They have been teaching ongoing advanced performance workshops in Manhattan for over a decade and have guided countless performers through the creation of solo cabaret shows. Both have served on the faculty of The Cabaret Conference at Yale University, The Eugene O'Neill Cabaret Symposium, The St. Louis Cabaret Conference and together have taught three day performance intensives in Chicago, Boston, Santa Fe, Washington, DC. and Las Vegas. Jensen is one of New York's most sought after musical director/arrangers and Koutrakos added two more MAC awards to her credit in 2007 - Best Major Female Artist and Best Director. The core of the three days will focus on performance coaching led by Koutrakos as director/performance coach and Jensen as music director/coach. Singers will prepare at least five songs that are memorized and ready to work. Participants receive individualized performance feedback in the following areas: connection to material, physical choices, song selection, interpretation, arrangements, audience connection and internal/ external focus of song. Other topics covered in the three days include constructing a show, working with your musical director, the importance of the arrangement and developing patter. The weekend culminates on Thursday evening, February 25th, with a Participant Showcase. There will also be a special performance featuring Koutrakos, Jensen and Schall on Tuesday evening, February 23rd. Both evenings are open to the public. Cost for the workshop is $675, and includes one ticket to the performance with Koutrakos, Jensen and Schall. Times are approximately 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the 23rd, 24th and 25th. Workshop space is limited. Workshop location and the showcase site is in the Cabaret at The Liberace Museum, 1775 E. Tropicana Avenue. For further information, or to register, please contact Tim Schall at (314) 359-0786, or email tjschall@sbcglobal.net. To inquire about separate, private one-on-one sessions with Koutrakos and Jensen, please contact Tim Schall. Chicago's KT McCammond says, "I highly recommend working with these two in any capacity when it is possible ...," while Jerome Elliott of Palm Springs states, "... great insight, energy and, above all, love for the art of cabaret."
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Tags: Mike Corda Robert Goulet Jon Peterson
Displaying keen perception and great insight.
She’s a little bit naughty. She’s a little bit nice.
She calls ‘em like she sees (and hears) ‘em.
She’s...
Claire Voyant
Las Vegas - February 12, 2010  Frankie Laine - Las Vegas 1950  Benny Hollman  Freddie Bell It's official. March 30th, on what would have been his 97th birthday, Frankie Laine, will be honored with a Legend Star in San Diego, where the late singer made his home. The star will be mounted on the outside wall next to Frankie's favorite restaurant, Trattoria Fantastica, at 1735 India Street. During the ceremony, the area of India and Date Streets will be blocked off. Benny Hollman's band (Benny Hollman served as Laine's Arranger, Conductor, Manager and Musical Director for more than 14 years) will be playing Frankie Laine hits, that include Ervin Drake's "I Believe," "Jezebel," "That's My Desire," "Mule Train," "That Lucky Old Sun," and themes from "Rawhide," "High Noon" and "Blazing Saddles," among others. Several guest singers are anticipated to attend and perform, including Laine's longtime friend, 96-year-old Herb Jeffries. If "The Singing Rage," Patti Page ("How Much Is That Doggie In the Window," "Old Cape Cod," "Tennessee Waltz," "Mockin' Bird Hill"), is available, she is also expected to participate. FYI... February 6th marked the third anniversary of the death of Frankie Laine. We will keep readers apprised of the upcoming ceremonial details. As we frequently say - If you're in the area... And on the subject of the man who was known as "Mr. Rhythm," it was at The Orleans, in 1998, that we saw him do a concert to benefit the local musicians union. Laine has always credited the men and women who played behind him for his success (we have a feeling Frankie would have been a success, even if he performed a cappella) and frequently traveled around the country to support the unions. We hadn't seen Frankie work since an afternoon performance at the historical Chicago Theater, in the early 1950s. We didn't know what to expect, more than 45 years later. Backed by the Benny Hollman orchestra, 86-year-old Laine walked out to the middle of the Orleans stage and sang "That's My Desire." It was almost as if time had stood still. The voice was still strong (they didn't call him "Old Leather Lungs" for nothing) and confident. He hit all the right notes and didn't miss a beat. His reward at the end of the first number was a sincere, thunderous ovation from the 800+ audience members in The Orleans Showroom. "Surprised you, didn't I?" Laine queried with a twinkle in his eye. The rest of the show was just as good. The man earned and deserves a Legend Star in San Diego. He also deserves permanent acknowledgement in the Entertainment Capital of the World. Is anybody listening? We might mention that, if the joke that is the Las Vegas Walk of Stars had any merit at all, singer, songwriter, actor, Frankie Laine, should have been one of the first recipients to receive that "honor" (to quote the late Freddie Bell, who doesn't have and didn't want a star, "If you have to buy it, it isn't an honor."). Word has it that Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin will finally get their stars on the sidewalks of Las Vegas. A virtually unknown local TV host, with shows on obscure stations airing in the middle of the night, has had a star for some time, while they are just getting around to Sinatra and Martin. What is wrong with this picture? From what we understand, a representative from the Martin family may be present for the momentous occasion, while the Sinatra family wants no part in this at all. As for Frankie Laine, he might be the only entertainer who had performed on a Las Vegas stage for seven consecutive decades, beginning in the 1940s and ending in November of 2000, when he made his last Vegas appearance at the newly opened Suncoast. The fact that he was never inducted into the (now missing from public view) Casino Legends Hall of Fame during his lifetime, is an embarrassment and should cause some red faces around this city. 
John Messana - Canal Street Sommelier 
Canal Street Citrus Harvest Salad And speaking of The Orleans...
On Thursday, February 4th, before the restaurant had opened for the regular dinner crowd - hours are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 5 to 10 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 11 p.m. (the restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) - a handful of VIPs were invited for an afternoon of food tasting in the lovely and comfortable Canal Street restaurant, located inside The Orleans on West Tropicana. Hosted by the Firm's Vice President of Public Relations & Marketing, Jasen Woehrle, and Kristy Alward, Public Relations Manager for Boyd Gaming Corp., 10 delighted guests shared a gastronomical experience in what was termed a Media Sampler Tasting. The idea was to introduce some new dishes, added to, or slightly changed, from Canal Street's menu. The Orleans' director of food and beverage, Rene Werner, and executive chef, Philip J. Bonanno, along with chef Anthony Oliva and sommelier John Messana, all had a say in the new selections and carefully described the items and wines that were presented to the special guests. Assuming that we would select the dishes from those listed on the Tasting menu, we were quite surprised to learn that we were going to have the opportunity to sample EVERYTHING on the special menu. With the proper well-chosen wines served with the Pre-Appetizers (Fresh Fruits and Cheeses); Appetizers (Beef Short Rib Ravioli and Seared Ahi Tuna and Lump Crab Meat), Soup and Salad (Lobster Bisque and Citrus Harvest Salad), Entrees (Chili Cured and Cilantro Crusted Lamb Lollipop with Lobster Mac and Cheese; Chilean Seabass Napoleon with Andouille Cream Corn; Filet Mignon with Bleu Cheese Scallop); and Dessert (Raspberry Souffle, Macerated Berries Over Ice Cream in a Praline Cup, Flourless Chocolate Cake), all was beautifully presented. The only difference between what we sampled and what a guest would be served, was the portion size. Yet, there was so much food, that we went home with doggie boxes (no bags for Canal Street). Quite an afternoon. We are sure old and new customers will be delighted. Cousin Claire might mention, that for such a nice dining spot, with elegant but not snobby ambience, we found the prices for both food and wine to be very reasonable. The Citrus Harvest Salad (with sliced chicken included), for example, is $10. It is very generous (see accompanying photo) and, we are told, is often ordered as the Entrée.
Reservations for this locals favorite are recommended and can be made by calling (702) 365-7111. Bon apatite. * * * * * * * If you are reading this early enough, here's a reminder about something happening tonight.
It's the cast of The Lion King in a very special Valentine's Day weekend performance in the Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum, starting at 7. Tickets are $25 at the door. Call (702) 798-5595, ext. 14. * * * * * * * Mrs. Clint Holmes (that would be the very talented Kelly Clinton) passed along the following review from David A. Frye of the Palm Beach Daily News (February 9, 2010)... Palm Beach Pops guest Clint Holmes shines in Kravis show A great musical match-up took place Monday night as Maestro Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops welcomed veteran entertainer Clint Holmes to the Kravis Center stage. An extremely polished performer, Holmes seemed right at home fronting the large group. He held his own through a well-paced set of quiet ballads as well as big numbers, while sharing the spotlight with Lappin and an array of soloists from the Pops lineup. The evening began sweetly enough with flutist Sara Stout kicking off the Chaplin classic "Smile," which also made great use of the string section. Special guest Mike Renzi — a world-class arranger, orchestrator and accompanist who has worked with everyone from Sinatra to Miss Piggy — stopped by to sit in with Lappin for a challenging dual-piano version of Gershwin's "Embraceable You." Rounding out the opening set was Renzi's beautiful medley of award-winning songs by Michel Legrand, including a full-tilt swing take on "I Will Wait For You" that had toes tapping throughout the hall, book-ended by a lush, string-laden approach to "How Do You Keep The Music Playing?" While the Pops players are still as bankable as ever, both individually and as a unit, the lighting designs and audio mix have never been better, making for a great overall experience. In the second half, Holmes came out of the gate swinging with a tight big-band arrangement of "Get Me To The Church On Time," from My Fair Lady, the first of many show tunes — both classic and original — performed that evening. Displaying a well-tempered confidence that only comes from 20-plus years in Vegas and Atlantic City, Holmes smoothly segued from one tune to the next, weaving anecdotes and one-liners into the mix in a conversational tone that doesn't feel rehearsed. In fact, he makes you feel right at home, sharing his tasteful interpretations of a wide variety of material while channeling bits of the heroes he has known over the years: a little bit of Sammy Davis Jr. in "What Kind of Fool Am I?," a little Sinatra in "I've Got you Under My Skin," and a little Michael Jackson in a refreshing version of "Human Nature." Other highlights included the stunning West Side Story Suite — a beautifully understated abridged version of the show that was a one-man tour-de-force — along with several original tunes from a yet-to-be-produced autobiographical musical, and his 1974 number one pop hit, "Playground In My Mind," which had the Kravis crowd happily singing along. By pairing with Holmes, likely the most talented "one-hit wonder" whose name you might not recall but certainly should remember, the Palm Beach Pops has raised the bar substantially for future guest performers, and found a solid collaborator who is as close to a perfect fit as it's had in recent years. It resulted in simply a great night of music. Clint Holmes' next local appearance takes place at the Suncoast, Saturday, March 13th at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday the 14th at 4 p.m. 
Clint Holmes & Kelly Clinton
Holmes by Erik Kabik 
SOS - Michael Laygo & Jasmine Trias
Dori Kotzan by Fran Kuhn
* * * * * * * Continuing their indefinite engagement at the Gold Coast, Society of Seven, with special guest star American Idol's Jasmine Trias, are changing their show times. Beginning next Friday, SOS will discontinue their afternoon shows, going to one 7 p.m. show on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The high-energy variety show combines comedy sketches, celebrity impersonations, dance and live music performances, featuring popular standards, Top 40 and Broadway selections. Tickets start at $29.95, plus tax, and may be purchased at the Gold Coast Box Office or by calling (702) 251-3574 or visiting www.goldcoastcasino.com.
Photo of Michael Laygo and Jasmine Trias by Robert Macabagdal * * * * * * * Former Las Vegas resident Dori Kotzan, also known as Bambi Jones or Bambi Sr. (she is the mother of Grace Morley, who was known as Bambi Jr. during her Vegas show days), is really excited about her latest project. Dori is the February centerfold with a three page pictorial spread in Jesse James' (the husband of Oscar-nominated actress, Sandra Bullock) Garage magazine. The soon to be 80, grandmother of three, looks darn good for her years and we are sure the bikers who look at Garage magazine "just for the articles" (wink wink) will get a real kick out of fun-loving Dori. Currently living in Connecticut, her goal is to move back to, what the late entertainment writer, Forrest Duke, called TBCOTA (The Best City of Them All), Las Vegas. Check out Dori's latest video at http://vimeo.com/9325669. * * * * * * * From singer Michelle Johnson comes this update on her career. Next week, from 8 p.m. to midnight on Tuesday, Michelle will be at Brendan's Pub in The Orleans. The young lady reports that The Orleans had stopped the Tuesday Night Jazz series, but decided to give it another run because of a spike in attendance last month, so she is back on board, one Tuesday a month. There are usually talented guests (like Clint Holmes, Lena Prima, Skye Miles, and others) dropping buy to contribute a song or two. Michelle will also be working with Sonny Turner, formerly with The Platters. On Saturday, February 13th, they will be performing A Valentine's Rock N' Roll Spectacular at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan. The Turner troupe will be entertaining with other legendary groups in shows beginning at 8 p.m. EST. Thursday afternoon at 2, Johnson will be co-hosting and singing in the Suncoast's Hit Parade show. Lastly, this busy lady is starting a non- profit music therapy foundation for at-risk youth, called Music Medicine WoRX. You can check out Michelle's new blog, and all that she is doing, by going to www.michellejohnson.com. 
Michelle Johnson 
Celine Dion 
Buddy & Lezlie Anders Greco * * * * * * * No big surprise here...unless you have been living under a rock and/or not reading any publications or watching TV. As expected, Celine Dion will be returning to the Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The first performance of the new show (no title given yet) will take place on March 15th of next year. Even though the production won't debut for more than a year, tickets went on sale today at Caesars and Ticketmaster outlets, with prices ranging from $55 to $250, plus taxes and fees. Dion, whose new production will take a different direction than A New Day, is expected to perform 70 shows a year over a three year period. Since Celine's first contract with Caesars ended in December of 2007, headliners including Elton John, Bette Midler and Cher have held court in the * * * * * * * On Tuesday, March 9th, Las Vegas' Don't Tell Mama will celebrate its one year birthday. Joanna Pham, wife of owner Minh Pham (who also owned and operated the Manhattan club of the same name for many years), informs us of the downtown cabaret/piano bar's current schedule. Tuesdays, it's pianist Michael Spadoni, Mark Randall at the keys on Wednesdays, Michael Dubay on Thursday nights, Robby Wingfield on Fridays, Chris Lash on Saturdays, and Rebecca Olschewski on Sundays. The regular cast of singers/bartenders/servers include Savannah Smith, Aundrea Whitt, Sandra Geier, Bianca Alanis, Shannon Bond and Brook Smith. On Sundays, from 7 to 9 p.m., Richard Weiss plays Classical Cabaret (two drink minimum). In addition to a lineup of pros, visiting singers are urged to share their talent with the customers. This isn't karaoke, folks, and there are no screens showing lyrics. What there IS, are real live pianists and fake books. Don't Tell Mama is located at 517 Fremont Street (just east of Las Vegas Blvd. and the Fremont Street Experience). Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 8 p.m., and Sundays from 7 p.m. (now closed on Mondays). Call (702) 207-0788 for additional information. * * * * * * * In July, the Palm Springs' Desert Sun newspaper noted that jazz legend Buddy Greco's Cathedral City nightclub was in foreclosure. The month before, people calling the club heard the voice of Mrs. Greco, Lezlie Anders, on the answering machine, stating that the club would be holding its "Bon Voyage" party and show June 11th through 13th. The Supper Club never reopened. On Tuesday, February 9th, the Desert Sun ran a different story. This time with a headline reading, Buddy Greco Making the Jump Across the Pond The story goes on to say...As if to prove 83 is the new 53, Buddy Greco is moving to England and starting over. His farewell appearances for local fans, including those who patronized his dinner club in Cathedral City, are Friday and Saturday in the Cascade Lounge of the Spa Resort Casino. But this isn't a final farewell. Buddy and his wife, singer Lezlie Anders, will return in the spring of 2011 to play the McCallum Theatre with a 40-piece orchestra. But they'll be part-time residents of England by then. The jazz pianist and former Frank Sinatra Rat Pack associate will begin an engagement at the Leicester Square Theatre in London's West End on May 4. He and Lezlie have 20 dates booked in the UK after that and there could be more on the European continent. That's why they're leaving America. "You have to go where the work is," said Lezlie. "We're very excited just about the prospect of working." She and Buddy will perform their theatrical production of "Fever," based on Buddy's relationship with Peggy Lee, at Leicester Square. Then Buddy will join a "Las Vegas Legends" tour through towns like Birmingham, Manchester, York and Edinburgh through September. The touring package will feature artists saluting Lee and the Rat Pack - Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford. Buddy will be the only real Las Vegas artist on the bill. England is so starving for pieces of the Sinatra legend, the BBC has planned a radio tribute on April 30 featuring Buddy with the BBC Orchestra. They're also doing a six-part series on Buddy titled, "I Had A Ball: The Swinging Life of Buddy Greco." Buddy, like fellow desert residents Jerry Vale and Frankie Randall, played the Sahara Hotel lounge in Vegas while Sinatra played the show room. But Buddy wasn't just a lounge lizard at a piano bar — I recently heard some remastered recordings Buddy made of that 1967 gig with an 18-piece band and they rocked. He plans to release them as an album titled "Live At the Sands." One of Sinatra's best albums was "Sinatra at the Sands" with Count Basie and Quincy Jones. But Buddy said Sinatra once came to his lounge and exclaimed, "You've got one more piece in the band than I do." Buddy opened for Frank at the first Sinatra Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament gala. I also heard him play Sinatra's only benefit at the McCallum in the late '80s. Playing with them on that bill were Sammy Davis Jr., Mel Torme and Dinah Shore. I told Buddy that McCallum show was the closest thing I've heard to a real Rat Pack concert. But he said that was just a small taste of what it was like to be around the real Rat Pack and fringe members like Vic Damone, Don Rickles, Milton Berle, Judy Garland and Shirley MacLaine. "I can't explain it to you," he said over lunch recently. "We were like little kids! You had to be there." Buddy gave me one more Sinatra story for the road: "We were in Atlantic City," he said. "Dean and everybody was there. Dean was looking at Frank's set of golf clubs and he said, 'Do you mind if I try this driver?' Frank said, 'Sure,' and Dean went down the elevator. And Frank calls security! He says, 'This is Mr. Sinatra. A guy who looks just like Dean Martin stole my golf clubs.' And they arrested him when he got down there! But just for a moment." Lezlie requested an encore. "What about you and Yul Brynner blowing all the windows out of the house here on Frank Sinatra (Drive)?" she implored. "Oh, God," Buddy sighed, like he was embarrassed. "We were at the house and he had these big orange ash trays. Yul Brynner and I were drinking by the pool and Yul got a couple of cherry bombs." "More than a couple," corrected Lezlie. "There were quite a few cigarettes burning in the ash tray, so we threw (the cherry bombs) in. About 20 seconds later you hear (explosion sounds). Well, needless to say, it destroyed everything." "Not only did it blow up the ash trays," added Lezlie, "but the table." "And the windows!" said Buddy. "Do you think Frank was pissed? Oh, boy." Buddy will miss the Coachella Valley, but he said, "I have an opportunity now to go to another country where I've performed for 60 years and make a very good living. It's not to say I'm not coming back." For reservations for Greco's Spa shows, call (800) 585-3737 
Frankie Randall 
Joel Grey 
Katharine McPhee And speaking of Palm Springs and its musical residents, Frankie Randall, who divides his time between Las Vegas and the California desert community, will gather some of his talented friends together for Last Call at Jilly's at the McCallum Theatre for the Performing Arts, at 73000 Fred Waring Drive in Palm Desert, California. On Wednesday, February 17th at 8 p.m., Randall and friends will recall the heyday of New York's famed Jilly's Bistro. For those who don't know, Jilly Rizzo was one of onetime Palm Springs resident, Frank Sinatra's, closest friends. A decade ago, for an entire season, Randall performed a Sinatra tribute at the Annenberg Theater. For the upcoming McCallum show, Frankie will sing and play pop and jazz tunes, including Sinatra songs. He is also inviting many of his talented (and famous) friends to join him on stage. He has asked comedian Gary Mule Deer (Johnny Mathis' longtime opening act) to do some comedy. He said Mule Deer complained he wouldn't be able to attend a rehearsal, but Frankie said, "There is no rehearsal!" Look for fellow Sinatra cronies Keely Smith and Pat Rizzo to show up, along with singer-clarinetist, and former Barney Miller star, Hal Linden, and who knows who else. Hear the music, and the stories, that made Jilly's the favorite hangout for many celebrities, including Ol' Blue Eyes himself. Tickets range from Balcony seats at $15, to Premium Orchestra and/or Mezzanine seats at $55. For general information and reservations, please call (760) 340-ARTS, or toll free at (866) 889-ARTS). Looking at the McCallum's upcoming lineup, we have to say we are a bit envious. Tonight, for example, legendary performer and Tony Award winner, Joel Grey, best known for his iconic performances in Cabaret and George M!, sings and dances his way onto the McCallum stage.
In March, Tony-winners, Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin perform together on the 19th and 20th; American Idol finalist, Katharine McPhee is in the spotlight on the 25th; on the 26th, it's Judy Garland's OTHER daughter, Lorna Luft, paying tribute to her late mother; and on the 27th, it's Steve Tyrell. April 3rd, Broadway star and recording artist, Linda Eder entertains at the McCallum. Although most of these acts have performed in Vegas at one time or another (LuPone at the Suncoast and Orleans, Patinkin at UNLV, Luft at the Desert Inn, Stardust and Suncoast and Steve Tyrell at the Golden Nugget) , it has been a while, and it isn't often enough. Are you listening, Vegas booking people??? Michael Feinstein, who had been scheduled to appear with Tyne Daly at the McCallum on February 19th, has had to cancel. Why? Because he is doing something a little bigger instead. All About Me, starring Michael and Dame Edna, will preview at Henry Miller's Theatre on Monday, February 22nd, in preparation for a Thursday, March 18th opening. All About Me (the "Me" being Mr. Feinstein) is written by Christopher Durang, Barry Humphries (Dame Edna) and Feinstein, and conceived by Feinstein and Humphries with Lizzie Spender and Terrence Flannery. This is Dame Edna's third return to Broadway, following her smash hit, Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning, Dame Edna: The Royal Tour in 1999, and 2004's Tony- nominated Dame Edna: Back with a Vengeance. Michael Feinstein last appeared on Broadway in 1990 in Michael Feinstein in Concert: Piano and Voice and performed on Broadway in 1988 in both Michael Feinstein in Concert: "Isn't It Romantic" and in Michael Feinstein in Concert. He received a special Drama Desk Award in 1988 for celebrating American musical theater songs in 1988. Famed director, Casey Nicholaw, has generously agreed to direct the joint endeavor. Acclaimed playwright Durang, previously announced in negotiations for Dame Edna's solo show, will now combine both shows into one unique musical entertainment. The rest of the design team will be announced shortly. All About Me will be produced by Jeffrey Richards and Jerry Frankel. * * * * * * * 
Ali Spuck & Kristofer McNeeley 
Paul Szigety 
Ritz-Carlton at Lake Las Vegas After a brief sabbatical, Ali Spuck, and her Here I Am one-woman show returns to the Liberace Museum Cabaret for 2:30 p.m. performances on Sundays, beginning next weekend, February 21st. A Los Angeles Ovation-nominated singer and actress, Ali Spuck will take you on a journey of music and comedy inspired by her experiences, family and friends. You'll be entranced and delighted by her gregarious spirit. Song selections include classic Broadway, new contemporary cabaret hits, and romantic Gershwin songs from the Golden Age of music. One of our personal favorites is Ali's version of the funny "Diva's Lament" from Monty Python's Spamalot. The Los Angeles Times says, "Ali Spuck rivals Bette Midler," while Backstage West describes her as "Buoyant and appealing." Ali will be accompanied by Dave Haertel at the piano. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the Liberace Museum, 1775 E Tropicana (at Spencer), or by calling (702) 798-5595, ext 13, or e-mailing to info@liberace.org.
Oh, and did we happen to mention that Ali and her actor/singer husband, Kristofer McNeeley, are expecting their first baby in June? Kristofer is a cast member of Jersey Boys, where he usually plays Hank Majewski, one of the original members of the boy group that evolved into the Four Seasons. During next week, however, McNeeley will play the role of Tommy DeVito. And speaking of the Liberace Museum...
Our sympathies go out to the museum's recently named President, Jack Rappaport, on the death of his father, Irving Rappaport, who passed away on February 2nd at the age of 96. Born in New York City, Irving moved to Las Vegas in 1961. From 1966 to 1995, he was the general manager at the Palms Apartments. Mr. Rappaport served as President of the Nevada Apartment Association from 1968 to 1971. In addition to his son, Jack, Irving Rappaport is survived by his daughter, Lita Dove of California; grandchildren, Michael Rappaport of Las Vegas, and Alexander Dove of California; niece, Jan Bauman; and nephew, Jeff Blankfort, who both reside in California. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions in his memory be made to the Irving Rappaport Introduction to the Performing Arts Program at UNLV. Information on the program and contributions can be made by contacting The College of Fine Arts, UNLV, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Box 455013, UNLV, Las Vegas, NV 89154-5013. * * * * * * * Paul Szigety passed away in Las Vegas on February 1st. Born in Budapest, Hungary on May 8, 1919, the son of Odon and Elsa Szigety, Paul was a Holocaust survivor; a classical musician, stage manager, associate entertainment director, and director of some Las Vegas entertainment in local showrooms, (Folies Bergere, Broadway-type shows and book shows) for more than 30 years. Mr. Szigety was also a member of the advisory board of the Super Summer Theatre. Paul is survived by his loving wife and companion of 29 years, Marjorie Szigety; Marjorie's children, Kenneth, Randy, David Moses and Dianna Estes; and six grandchildren, all of Northern, California; nephew, George Lawrence; niece Dr. Susan Lawrence; grandnephew Stephen; grandniece, Rebecca; and great-grandnephew, Marly, all of Australia. Paul had many friends in Australia and the Las Vegas area (too many to name). A memorial will be held in his honor of his 91st birthday, May 8, 2010, at the Community Lutheran Church, 3720 E. Tropicana Ave. in Las Vegas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Nathan Adelson Hospice at 4131 Swenson St., Las Vegas, NV 89119, in Paul's memory. * * * * * * * A victim of the troubled local economy, the AAA Five Diamond Ritz-Carlton at Lake Las Vegas in Henderson will close its doors on May 2nd, putting about 350 employees out of work as a result. Efforts are being made to place them at other Ritz-Carltons, Marriotts or hotels in the Las Vegas area. Employees at the hotel were informed of the closure on Monday. The hotel will remain operational until the May closing date. The 15-acre, 349-room luxury hotel opened in February 2003. "When the economy was good, this hotel was an extremely popular destination resort," Vivian Deuschl, corporate vice president of Ritz-Carlton, said. "It's been one of the real jewels in the crown of the company for us." The 3,600-acre Lake Las Vegas, a development 20 miles southeast of the Las Vegas Strip, includes more than 1,600 residential units, luxury hotels and a casino. Lake Las Vegas is now in bankruptcy, burdened with $728 million in liabilities amid the worst real estate downturn in memory.
Note - Celine Dion and her family own a home at Lake Las Vegas
Photo by Steve Marcus * * * * * * * 
Diane Ellis' Frannie 
F.I.O.R.E. Widow 
Mariska Hargitay Another one of our entertainer friends, singer, voiceover actress Diane Ellis, has suffered the loss of a beloved pet. As Diane tells it, Frannie showed up on her front patio one day. She thought this was the most beautiful cat she had ever seen! "She had the biggest blue eyes. Even though they were a little crossed, I thought she was adorable. I immediately named her after "Ol Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra. After discovering that he was a she, I named her Frannie. I used to call her Frannie Girl," says Diane. "Frannie was part Siamese, and as you know, they can be a little temperamental. Well she made it clear that she was the Boss to my other kitties. Frannie Girl brought me 12 years of love, and smiles. She suffered from Feline Asthma, and had Hypothyroidism. We discovered a lump on the top of her head during Christmas. I had it aspirated, and discovered that Frannie had the beginning of Lymphoma. The lump grew rapidly. Being a cat person all my life, I knew her body language, and looked for the signs of having to put her down. It was a peaceful passing. I figured for all of the years of unconditional love that she gave me, the least I could do was to be with her till the very end. I will never forget my little baby, Frannie Girl." We know Frannie has scampered over the Rainbow Bridge and into a place of forever fun and good health. * * * * * * * Here are some more Valentine's Day options (see the February 5th column for the first group of suggestions) for all of you romantics. Whatever your choices, reservations are strongly suggested...
Hash House A Go Go is featuring Valentine's Day dinner specials ranging from $4.95 to $28.95 to create the perfect romantic evening with that special someone. In addition to the regular menu items that are available, specials include the following selections from Chef Vidal's holiday menu: House-made Kennebec Potato Chips for $7.95; Grilled Flatiron Steak in Andy's soy-based barbeque with fried green tomatoes and crispy fried shrimp, served with sweet corn mash at $25.95; Chilean Sea Bass stuffed with all blue crab cake served with griddled garlic mash and asparagus and drizzled with basil pesto cream, $28.95 (available only at the 6800 West Sahara location); Bite of Blueberry Shortcake for $4.95; Heart-Shaped Snickers Bread Pudding with vanilla bean ice cream at $7.95. Both locations are also serving a special Sweetheart Brunch from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Brunch specials include the Raspberry and White Chocolate Flapjack for $8.95, and the famous B.L.T. Mary, a chilled 20-ounce glass with a bacon and salt rim, house Mary mix and vodka, all trimmed with a fresh tomato wheel, smoked bacon slice, rib of romaine lettuce, buttered white toast and a mayo pack for just $8.95. Brunch dining is first come, first served. Dinner reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling the Sahara location at (702) 804-4646 or the Imperial Palace location at (702) 254-4646. Hours at West Sahara are from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (with a respite from 2:30 to 5 p.m.) , reopening from 5 to 9 p.m. The Imperial Palace hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (check for Valentine's Day special hours). Our advice? Go hungry! You might also celebrate Valentine's Day with a candlelit dinner at Bernard's Bistro at The Village Lake Las Vegas. Chef E. Bernard, owner and executive chef of Bernard's Bistro, celebrates Valentine's Day with a romantic candlelit evening featuring a five-course meal of signature items. The menu items include "Be My Valentine," a blood orange tomato soup garnished with Cointreau coconut chutney; "Fleur de Lys," smoked salmon with crème fraiche and caviar in dill truffle oil; "Two Hearts Beating as One," heart-shaped artichoke ravioli with mascarpone cheese and asparagus in a cabernet sauvignon sauce; "Love Me Tender," a brandy flamed filet mignon with foie gras in Morel Porto sauce, served with potatoes Au Gratin and petite legumes; "Romeo & Juliette," a duet of red peppercorn-crusted lamb loin and rack of lamb served with polenta-spiced apricot in Madeira wine sauce; and "Togetherness," two quail in zinfandel sauce served with caramelized pears and truffled sweet peas. Special vegetarian entrees are available also. The five-course meal, served from 6 to 11 p.m., is $75 per person. Please call (702) 565-1155 to make reservations. Overnight stays are available at MonteLago Village Resort and Vacation Villas. To book a special weekend package at the Resort, please call (888) 600-2688 or visit www.montelagovillage.com. For Vacation Villas, please call (702) 568-1174 or visit www.lakelasvegasrentals.com. Bernard's Bistro is located at 15 Costa di Lago in The Village Lake Las Vegas And a reminder from Nelson Sardelli...
Tomorrow evening, Saturday, February 13th beginning at 7, it's the F.I.O.R.E.'s annual Valentines' Day Dinner Dance at Bugsy's Speakeasy on the southwest corner of Sahara and Jones. Suggested dress code is Flappers and Guidos or evening elegant. There will be a great buffet, a no host bar, flowers and chocolates for the molls, flappers and F.I.O.R.E. widows, 50/50 drawing for 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes as well as prizes for best costume, live music by the Gary Olds Trio, plus special guest Dr. George Ritter and some surprise performers (since no one knows who will be participating in this portion of the festivities, it will be a surprise for everybody). Small arms must be checked at the door. The price for all of this fun? A paltry $35 per person (except for the widows, who get a free pass). Invite your Italian or non-Italian friends to this non-club club event. Please RSVP to BABYEUE@AOL.COM. Don't make them come and get you. And speaking of Nelson Sardelli, the humanitarian is requesting public support for the Joyful Heart Foundation, headed up by actress Mariska Hargitay. Inspired by her character, Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU (Sexual Victims Unit), and the thousands of survivors who reached out to her for help, Mariska founded Joyful Heart in 2004. The mission of the Joyful Heart Foundation is to heal, educate and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse. The Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winner states that, "All things are possible with an open heart-and a joyful heart." She goes on to say, "My work with the Joyful Heart Foundation has brought me into contact with so many remarkable people over the years, and they continue to reinforce that profound lesson. Now we have an opportunity to apply that lesson together, and embrace the promise of change. As we pass the milestone of our fifth year, stronger and more viable than I ever dared imagine, we are introducing a new mission statement and a new website. Yes, change can be a little unsettling, but I am welcoming it with open arms. Another change I've embraced is how I see myself in this world. I used to call myself the "accidental activist." No more. I have fully engaged in this mission. It is part of my path, one of the reasons I am here. You see, I don't believe in accidents; I never have. My love for Hawaii where I had my first "heart opening;" my job on SVU that exposed me for the first time to the reality of rape, domestic violence and child abuse and the deep trauma they cause; the development of my relationships with the people who now staff Joyful Heart and sit on the board: all of it was beautifully orchestrated to help us reach the survivors we need to reach, to find other hearts that need opening. From the very beginning, long before there was a mission or an office or a website, there was the name-Joyful Heart-which was no accident either. At Joyful Heart, we are not about creating more happiness, though that certainly is a welcome by-product of what we do. We are not about having people feel better for a day or a week or a month. We are dedicated to helping survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse recover a sense of joy that informs every part of their lives, helping them take the profoundly courageous steps towards living a life steeped in hope and possibility. I am awed by how much has come together over the past five years. I began Joyful Heart tentatively, unsure about how-or even if-I could make it work; I didn't know anything about running a foundation. But I dove in, opened my heart and trusted that I was on the right path. And now I know I was. None of it was accidental, and all of it has led to this moment-this courageous, promising, joyful moment-where you are reading this letter, and we can say: Welcome to Joyful Heart, where anything is possible." Peter Hermann, Mariska's husband, says, "The Joyful Heart Foundation, is in the running for a $250,000 grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project (www.refresheverything.com). Pepsi is giving away $20 million in grants to "people, businesses, and non-profits with ideas that will have a positive impact." Joyful Heart (www.joyfulheartfoundation.org) is in the running for the highest level grant of $250,000. For the entire month of February, until the 28th, people can vote ONCE A DAY, EVERY DAY at www.refresheverything.com/votejoy. PLEASE vote, and tell everyone you know to vote, too! And I mean everyone. Your friends, your family, the people you work with, your neighbors, the person next to you on line at the grocery store... everyone. It takes about a minute to register, and then voting daily takes all of about 15 seconds. And we're up against some heavy-hitting organizations, so every vote counts. If you're having trouble voting, e-mail Melissa at (melissa@joyfulheartfoundation.org) and she'll walk you through it. * * * * * * * 
Fielding West Bob Kephart, producer of the award winning Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel/Casino, has assembled three of the top comedians in the country for the week of February 15th through the 21st. Headlining will be comic/magician Fielding West. Sharing the bill with Fielding will be Jim Carroll and Patrick O'Donnell. West is not only a magician's magician, but possesses that very rare and impeccable sense of comedic timing that has landed him the opening spot for some of the biggest names in show business, including Liza Minnelli, Glen Campbell, Earth, Wind and Fire, Mel Tillis, Phyllis Diller and dozens more. His finale, "Fighting a Vicious Lion," has to be seen to be believed. A winner in the prestigious Desert Magic Seminar's Comedy Competition, Fielding has made numerous network television appearances on shows such as The Smothers Brother's Comedy Hour, A&E's An Evening at the Improv, Caroline's Comedy Hour, NBC's The World's Greatest Magic and World's Wildest Magic specials. Fielding also works as a writer, and has been a magic consultant and technical director for a number of Lance Burton, and Siegfried and Roy's TV specials. Last July, West performed in his first one hour comedy magic special, Hocus Pocus It's Fielding West, aired on WGN. Patrick O'Donnell has been a comedian for more than 20 years, and was a $10,000 winner on ABC's America's Funniest People. Patrick is a high energy comedian and his impressions of past Presidents of the United States are considered to be classics. During his time on stage, he can go into a dissertation about the Catholic faith, his family life or touch on current events. Jim Carroll has been touring the comedy circuit for more than a decade, and has appeared on many of the top comedy television channels. He is a favorite of the various services, and was asked and accepted a flight with the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels. The Comedy Stop in the Congo Room at the Sahara consistently books three of the best comedians, seven nights a week. Tickets for the 9 p.m. show are priced from $19.95 for resident of Nevada (proof of resident) plus tax and fees, with general admission tickets priced at $24.95 plus tax and fees. For information or reservations call the Sahara Box office at (702) 737-2878. And speaking of the Sahara's entertainment offerings, both Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop and Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show will move from the upstairs Congo Room, into the main showroom on the casino level, beginning March 2nd. We feel this will be a good thing, especially since, as far as we know, the escalators taking customers to the upper level still are out of service. Also, now show-goers won't have to pass by the second floor dark and closed buffet. Maybe the powers-that-be (we always wonder who these decision-makers are) will consider putting their back in around-the-clock operation. These kinds of "cut backs" send a poor message to tourists.
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Tags: Frankie Laine Benny Hollman Freddie Bell John Messana Canal Street SOS Layg
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