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 - September 25, 2009

Martin Nievera

Shades of Sinatra

Aron Shanley

If you haven't had supper tonight, head over to the Suncoast for some soup...Vocal Soup, that is. The four person musical ensemble, with Vincent Falcone at the piano, consists of Clint Holmes, Susan Anton, Domenick Allen and Martin Nievera. All very well known as individual performers, this quartet combines their talents to make beautiful music together in an entertaining revue they call Vocal Soup. Clint, Susan, Domenick and Martin will be lighting up the Suncoast showroom, tonight through Sunday night. Show times are at 8 p.m. Ticket prices start at $29.95 plus taxes and fees. Showing off their individual skills, Clint Holmes returns to the Suncoast, October 23^rd through 25^th, while Martin Nievera, known as The Concert King in the Philippines, gets his turn in the spotlight at the Suncoast, November 13^th through 15^th. We have a hunch that the audiences will be so taken with one of the Philippines' Favorite Sons, Mr. Nievera, like Holmes, will also become a regular in the Suncoast showroom.

And speaking of Vocal Soup, the musical quartet will sing the national anthem prior to the Las Vegas 350 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway tomorrow. This will be the first time the group has performed the anthem.

And speaking of the Suncoast (which we frequently do), it's Shades of Sinatra, Saturday and Sunday, October 3^rd and 4^th. Shades of Sinatra - Ryan Baker, Carmine Mandia, Larry Liso, and Lisa Smith - is an original musical production celebrating the extensive music and career of the great Frank Sinatra. Featuring over 30 of Sinatra's biggest hits, this show pays tribute to most of the signature Sinatra tunes one would expect, as well as several that may be new to casual fans. Its cast members create unique characters that celebrate him in their own ways, often drawing on experiences from their own lives; and in between songs and poignant stories, there is plenty of zany humor and good-natured ribbing among the cast, creating the vintage, off-the-cuff Vegas show atmosphere that is associated with Ol' Blue Eyes himself. All the great Sinatra tunes you've grown to love, performed live, backed by the swingin' Ned Mills Orchestra. There are several new arrangements, new multi-media AND, a special appearance by the one and only Lionardo. Show time is at 7:30 p.m. Tickets starts at $19.95 plus tax.

For reservations to any and all the Suncoast's offerings, call (702) 636-7075.

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We were asked if Naked Boys Singing! is still playing at the Onyx Theatre in The Rack at Commercial Center. The answer is a resounding, YES! The little show that could, which opened at the Onyx in June for a two week run, continues entertaining audiences of all ages (over 21, of course), all colors, all sizes and all species, as we speak. Another question with a "YES" answer is, are the boys really naked? Our question is, why would they call the show Naked Boys Singing!, if the boys weren't naked? Helloooo! The newest cast member is Aron Shanley. He joins Nolan Christopher, Ivan Hardin, Mitchell Johnson, Allen Merritt, Paul Pratt, Daryl Roth and Mark White. The shows' accompanist, Spencer Baker at the piano (YES, there's even live music), will be taking a short break from NBS to head to Washington DC where he will perform at Arlington National Cemetery this weekend. Filling in for Spencer, tomorrow and Sunday, is the very talented, creative and funny Vita Corimbi. Ms. Corimbi will also sub for Baker at the Nellis Air Force Base's Sunday services. Michael Morse, the owner of The Rack and Onyx, has asked Vita to write a new number for NBS, to which the lady responded, "I would love to do it!" Producer Jimmy Emerson is working out the details with the famed William Morris Agency. Show times are every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, at 10 p.m., with an added Sunday matinee at 3 p.m. Tickets are now $25, with a special $20 price for locals.

Vita Corimbi

Mommie Queerest

Jason Graae

The Onyx Theatre, a performance space that pushes the envelope in a very good and creative way, is also featuring the outrageous Mommie Queerest through October 11^th. We have heard nothing but good things about this show. We were told that we MUST see it, so we're going! Show times are Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7 p.m., and Sunday, October 4^th at 9 p.m. There are special late night performances on October 2^nd and 3^rd, at 11:30 p.m. Tickets are $20. As we mentioned above, the Onyx Theatre is located inside The Rack at 953 E. Sahara in the Commercial Center. For tickets or more info, call (702) 732-7225.

We heard that pianist Spencer Baker and cabaret artist Phyllis Bell, may do a couple of numbers during Philip Fortenberry's Liberace and Me show at the Liberace Museum on Wednesday, September 30th at 1 p.m. This isn't a "for sure" at deadline time. Check with the museum at (702) 798-5595.

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And if you are closer to Manhattan, check out Jason Graae at the Metropolitan Room. According to songwriter Ervin Drake ("Good Morning Heartache," "I Believe," "It Was a Very Good Year"), Jason is "the second most talented man on the planet." You've seen him as "Harry Houdini" in Ragtime. You've heard him as "Lucky the Leprechaun" for Lucky Charms. And, to quote Graae (rhymes with Graae), "You've felt him watching you in your living room." Yes, the amazing and hilariously funny Mr. Graae will be performing at the Metropolitan Room for the next two weekends. He will be joined by the lovely Alex Rybeck and his magic fingers (except for on October 3^rd, when Billy Stritch will play). Tomorrow night's show is at 7:30, as are those on October 2^nd and 3^rd. On Sunday night, October 4^th, Jason will perform at 9:30 in the Metropolitan Room. He recently performed his Magically Delicious show at the famed Magic Castle in Hollywood. The Metropolitan Room is located at 34 West 22nd St., between 5^th and 6^th, in NYC. There is a $25 cover charge plus a two drink minimum (GO! He's worth it!). For reservations, call (212) 206-0433. Check out Jason at www.jasongraae.com.

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Reminder...It's Liza with a "Z" at the MGM Grand Hollywood Theatre, tonight through October 1^st. Call (702) 891-7800 for tickets. And, speaking of Ms. Minnelli, Las Vegan (of course he wasn't always a Las Vegan) Artie Schroeck (aka The Maestro) wrote the chart for Liza's version of "Teach Me Tonight." (That information comes to us from the proud Mrs. Schroeck, Linda November.)

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A gala evening is planned at Encore Resort on Friday, October 2^nd, beginning at 7 p.m. Called the Volunteers In Medicine Ball, the event will benefit Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada, an agency dedicated to providing medical care to the underserved populations of our community. Within a couple of months, a clinic, operated by more than 60 volunteer physicians, a cadre of nursing professionals, lab technicians and support individuals, is scheduled to open at Paradise Park in southeast Las Vegas. The organization now has more than 300 community volunteers ready to serve. The care center will initially focus on primary care, pediatrics and prenatal care. Additional services will be added in time. The ultimate goal is to eventually open two more clinics that will serve the needs of Southern Nevadans. Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada (VMSN) is a 501c3, established in 2008 by a group of concerned citizens who wanted to find a way to provide access to health care for Southern Nevada's working families. It is estimated that one out of seven are uninsured in America, including one out of three in Nevada, in excess of 400,000 people in Southern Nevada. In March of 2008, Family USA decided to use Nevada as an example when writing an article on the uninsured crisis. In an article titled Dying for Coverage in Nevada, it was noted that at least five working age Nevadans die each week because they have no health insurance. VMSN will provide preventative healthcare for the chronically ill. They will help prevent acute hospitalization, reducing hospital costs and decreasing taxpayer burdens. Most importantly, they will care for the neglected and forgotten members of our community who are hurting. The vision of VMSN is to have healing hands to touch underserved lives with love, and in the process, heal ourselves. The mission of VMSN is to identify, understand and serve the health and wellness needs of families in the community. VMSN plans to use both active and retired health care professionals, along with lay people, to run the care center.  The philosophy will be to create a "culture of caring." The Medicine Ball - honoring Dr. Sheikh Saghir (Volunteerism), Dr. Theodore Jacobs (Medicine) and Shelley Berkley (Community/ ) - will include a superb five-course sit-down dinner, fine wines, a silent auction, fashion show and an array of entertainment. Producer/singer, Dennis Casey Park of Casey Entertainment Productions, is putting together a special show for VMSN's Medicine Ball. Among those featured will be Sharon Smith and New Vision Gospel Choir (a favorite at the House of Blues), a 10-piece band conducted by former Tap Dog Rob Stone, Jeremy Fullam and Company, and singer Barbara Blair. John Daly will host the silent auction, fashion show and awards, while Mr. Park will host the entertainment portion. Chairpersons for this event are Dr. Parvin Modaber Jacobs and Dr. Florence Jameson. Tickets are $200 per person, with proceeds from the fundraiser going toward patient care. For additional information, please call (702) 7 p.m. $200. 994-3760.

Dr. Florence Jameson

Pietra, Nelson & Giovanna Sardelli

Sardelli Birthday Swim

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Nelson Sardelli certainly knows how to throw a party...especially when it's for himself to celebrate his 75^th birthday. Live music, good food, good company and even valet parking was the order of the day. Everyone had a grand old time. How many homes do you know of with a bridge across the backyard swimming pool? How many homes do you know of with a bridge across the pool and a permanent sign reading, "Going from here to there, or there to here, depending on where you are standing." Among those in attendance were Nelson's wife, Mickey, and their two beautiful daughters, Giovanna and Pietra, as well as Artie Schroeck and Linda November, Gloria and Don Hill, Judy Coco, Babe Pier and Cindy Raft Pier, Michaelina Bellamy, Cork Proctor, Allan Tramont and his lady Marta, Lou Toomin, Angela (Mrs. Freddie Bell) Bello, Vera (Mrs. Robert) Goulet, Mike and Annie Merrick, Teddy Kaye, Norm Johnson and Nancy Barr, Paul Campanella, Conrad and Marilyn Villella, Jerry Lopez, Tommy Deering, Brace Phillips, Dr. George Ritter, Nik Mastrangelo, Roberta (Mrs. Joe) Delaney, Judge Kathleen Delaney, Norman and Barbara Kaye, Felix Silla, Mr. and Mrs. Chick Hughes, Mike Christ, Jim Seagrave, Toni Sandoval, Don and Major Maria Sacco, Phil Carlino, Ronnie Rose, Mr. and Mrs. Don Gloude, Jeanne Bavaro, Bill Acosta, Andrea Gross, Jim Marsh, Kid Carey and his lady Sophie, Rolando Larraz, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Montana, Cindy Doumani and Randy Soard, Mr. and Mrs. Angelo Cassaro, and Jerry Fink. We have left out lots of folks because we are getting older and our memory isn't what it used to be. If those who were unintentionally omitted call to yell at us, or someone helps to fill in the blanks, we will print the missing names next week. At some point during the evening's festivities, a few of the guests decided to take a dip in the backyard swimming pool...in their party wear! Also participating in the fun was Auriosvaldo Bento Da Silva Arimateia, who ALONE (as in single-handedly) built the bridge over untroubled waters. We can hardly wait for Nelson's 80^th birthday celebration! Many happy returns of the day, Mr. Sardelli.

And speaking of old (timers)...The 14th annual Old Time Reunion Party will take place in the Mardi Gras Ballroom at The Orleans on Sunday, October 18^th, from 5 to 11 p.m. The event will be hosted by Bill Boyd and the Boyd Gaming Group. Event chairman is Thalia Dondero, and co-chairs are Lorraine Hunt Bono and Dennis Bono. Longtime Las Vegas residents will gather to talk about the "good old days" and complain about today. More than likely you will hear things like, "I remember when a buffet at the Silver Slipper cost $1.57." Really! Old friends will re-connect while having cocktails and dinner and watching entertainers do their thing. Tickets for the yearly event are $45 per person. Reservations are necessary. Please call (702) 364-4962.

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Even though their press releases say that Charo will return to the Riviera in November, we don't think that will happen. By the time Ms. Cuchi Cuchi heals from the injuries she received after falling while leaving the Jerry Lewis telethon over Labor Day weekend, the original contract for her well reviewed and popular show will be about over.

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Elliot Krane, 80, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 20^th, following a valiant 10-year battle against Alzheimer's, accompanied four years later by Parkinson's disease. He was born Jan. 28, 1929, in Philadelphia. In 1950, Elliot graduated from Penn State with a degree in journalism. His versatile career included a stint as assistant to then-president of Penn State, Milton Eisenhower, followed by seven years as the traveling producer for the television show, "Romper Room." Having fallen in love with Las Vegas during his "Romper Room" years, Elliot moved here in January 1974. It was here that he met Charlette Eskin in August 1974 and they began working together. Elliot and Charlette married on Thanksgiving Day, 1976. In 1977, the Kranes started the restaurant section in the Las Vegas Sun - the first in a local daily paper. It later became a section in "This Is Las Vegas," a weekend magazine published on Fridays in the Sun. Their feature, "Dining With An Entertainer," combining a restaurant review with a celebrity interview, proved to be very popular. In 1984, the Kranes started the Las Vegas Review-Journal restaurant section and, when the R-J's special restaurant sections including "Dining Guide" and "Wine and Dine" debuted a few years later, they contributed to them. For several years, they also published, edited and wrote for "Nevada Hospitality," the official magazine of the Nevada Hotel and Lodging and Nevada Restaurant associations. Elliot was an honorary member of the Food Service Executive Association and the ACF Chefs of Las Vegas. His last job was with Southern Wine & Spirits until his declining health forced him to retire. Elliot was a charter member of the American Institute of Wine and Food, a charter member of the UNLV Foundation, a charter subscriber of Artemus Ham Hall's Charles Vanda Concert Series and the Las Vegas Philharmonic, and an avid fan of Rebel football and basketball. He and Charlette also loved to play tennis. He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Samuel Krane; and stepdaughter, Laurie Eskin Brook. Among his many survivors are his beloved wife, Charlette; stepson, Jeffrey Eskin (Darla); grandson, Jonathan Eskin; granddaughter, Lindy Eskin, all of Green Valley; granddaughter, Emily Eskin of Las Vegas; granddaughter, Jennifer Smith (Zach); and great-grandson, Carter Jeffrey Smith, both of Irvine, Calif.; stepson, Andrew Eskin (Sandra); and grandchildren, Naomi, Rebecca and Ben Eskin, all of Bethesda, Md. Elliot donated his body to the MERIN Institute (Medical Education Research Institute) for research by UNLV students. When his body is released, he will be cremated. A memorial service will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to "Keep Memory Alive" in Elliot Krane's name.

Elliot Krane

Kelly Clarkson

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American Idol's first big winner, Kelly Clarkson, goes into The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, for one show only, Friday, November 6^th. The Hard Rock is one of the stops on Clarkson's All I Ever Wanted tour. Joining Clarkson is the rising band, Parachute. Clarkson has sold more than 20 million albums since her 2002 debut. Her All I Ever Wanted release shattered Billboard Records, when "My Life Would Suck Without You" jumped from No. 97 to No. 1 in its first week of release. Clarkson premiered her current single "Already Gone" on The Late Show with David Letterman. Concert attendees can expect to hear these latest hits including "I Do Not Hook Up" from the tour's namesake album, along with her signature pop anthems. Show time is at 8 p.m. Tickets starts at $45.50. For more information, call (702) 693-5555.

And still on the subject of reality television, former America's Got Talent host, Jerry Springer, will take that same position with the live version of the show when it comes into Planet Hollywood, beginning on October 7^th. The show will play at 7 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays, and Jerry Mitchell's Peepshow will follow at 9. For the first group of performers from the show, audience members can expect to see America's Got Talent's most recent million dollar winner, country singer Kevin Skinner, an out of work chicken catcher from Kentucky; opera singer and cancer survivor, Barbara Padilla from Houston, the runner-up, will also be on the bill. We hear that third-place finishers, Recycled Percussion, the Texas Tenors, and 75-year-old comedienne Grandma Lee (who performs at Palace Stations' Bonkerz Comedy Club. We will have more about America's Got Talent Live in the coming weeks.

And speaking of reality TV talent competitions, Jennifer Joseph, who wound up as one of the top three finalists on the Wayne Newton-hosted The Entertainer (airing on the E! channel in 2005), will join Randy Hendrickson in I've Got a Crush On You, at the Clark County Flamingo Library at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Hendrickson, who is making his 10^th appearance in a Performing Arts Center of Nevada presentation, has a background in musical theater, having performed in the national touring companies of The Unsinkable Molly Brown with Debbie Reynolds and Harve Presnell, Meet Me In St. Louis with Debby Boone, and La Cage aux Folles with Larry Kert and Harvey Evans. Randy served as curator of the movie museum at the Debbie Reynolds Hotel in Las Vegas, and currently is the Project Manager for Blair Farrington's Imagination Costumes (supplying wardrobe for Donny & Marie, Bette Midler, Cher and Terry Fator, among others). Randy usually performs at PASN with Dolly Coulter, Laurie Caseres and Bert Anderson. This time around, he has a new to PASN co-star - Jennifer Joseph. Jennifer, a 1989 graduate of Chaparral High School, started singing in major casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, eventually becoming principal vocalist in production shows such as Folies Bergere` and Legends in Concert. In 1995, she won the title of Miss Nevada and went on to win the Talent Award at the 1995-96 Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City. With that title, she was able to mentor thousands of kids about how to raise their self-esteem and overcome hardships. She has been in many plays and musicals, and has also performed and recorded with Julio Iglesias and Debbie Reynolds. In 1998, Ms. Joseph braved a Harlem audience to get a standing ovation at Showtime at the Apollo. Jennifer competed on the reality TV show The Entertainer, starring Wayne Newton, where she was showcased internationally. She displayed charisma, leadership, talent and professionalism throughout the whole competition, winding up as one of the top three finalists. She didn't win the competition, but she wound up being hired as a backup singer for Newton. Jennifer opened for Don Rickles at the HBO Comedy Festival at Caesars Palace. She was a cast member of the Rio's Show In the Sky, and recently joined the cast of Fantasy at the Luxor. Hendrickson and Joseph will perform their musical revue at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are a reasonable $15 and can be purchased at the library (1401 E. Flamingo) and hour before show time.

Kevin Skinner

Jennifer Joseph

Wayne Newton

And speaking of Wayne Newton, we think his much anticipated "big announcement" on Wednesday in Las Vegas, was much ado about very little. In celebration of his 50 years in show business, the onetime Vegas headliner will take to the stage of the Tiffany Theatre at the Tropicana, beginning on October 14^th. Newton, now 67, has been croaking out songs for close to 10 years. This latest effort, called Once Before I Go (hopefully, he won't sing and destroy that beautiful Peter Allen tune), is scheduled to run for six months. Our neighbor, Frank Leone, president of Local 369, the Las Vegas Musicians Union, tells us that Newton is persona non grata with unions around the country, including right here at home. In recent years, Newton's problems involve rehearsal pay (or, in this case, NON rehearsal pay) for musicians. Years ago, during the big Las Vegas musicians strike, Wayne was one of the only performers to cross the picket lines during his engagement at the Hilton. That sure didn't earn him points with the players in the community. This should be interesting. .

And speaking of the Tropicana, there seems to be lots of problems at the property. Without white and black hats to distinguish the bad guys from the good guys, we don't know who to be pissed at. With so many day-to-day changing stories, we also don't know who or what to believe. The cast of players in this ongoing drama include hypnotist/producer, Anthony Cools; comedy pitbull, Bobby Slayton; comic impressionist, Rich Natole; the Beatles tribute show, Penny Lane (who have already departed the room that formerly housed Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop); and The Edwards Twins, male twins who impersonate both male and female personalities (their deal at the Trop was over before it began) who will open at Hennessey's in downtown Las Vegas in a couple of months.

And speaking of Rich Natole, a reader, who saw his Tropicana show a few weeks ago, lets us know that earlier this week Natole was on FOX 5's More morning programming where he announced that locals could see his Voices of a Generation for free, through Sunday. No coupons are needed for this deal, just proper ID. The reader tells us that she thought Natole was "terrific." "Rich has a hundred different voices. Old stars like Jack Benny and Ed Sullivan, etc., as well as newer contemporary performers." Unfortunately, through no fault of their own, a bunch of hardworking performers have gotten caught in the middle of good old big business bullshit.

Rich Natole

Calvin Brooks

Jimmie J.J. Walker

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For all you jazz lovers...Tomorrow afternoon at 2, jazz guitarist/singer, Calvin Brooks, accompanied by Jess Gopen on drums and Millard Jackson on keys and bass, will pay tribute to some greats - Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, Forrest Green and Barney Kessell at the Black Label Restaurant Lounge, 3550 S. Decatur, on the southeast corner of Spring Mt. and Decatur. A $7 band contribution is requested. Call (702) 823-2222.

Tomorrow night, it's Marsha K. Ross in the spotlight at DeStefano's. Performance begins at 7:30. DeStefano's is located on the northeast corner of Tropicana and Pecos.

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And out-of-town tomorrow night, at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Scherer Forum, there are two great shows in one night, featuring one of the hottest swing bands in Southern California. The first part presents a tribute to the best of the big band era, with Tony Capko's 12-piece swing band. This renowned ensemble pays tribute to Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw and other top big bands from the '30s and '40s in this high energy, sizzling hot presentation. Special featured guest is Gina Eckstine, who will perform songs from her newly released CD, Everything I Have Is Yours, a tribute to her late father Billy Eckstine. Vocalist Mark Curran performs hits of the swingin' Las Vegas '50s and '60's in Hooked on Swing: The Best of the Big Bands as he offers up tributes to Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin and Eckstine, backed by Capko's band. Tickets are $40 for adults, $35 for seniors and $30 for students and children (prices do not include facility surcharge). To order tickets by phone, call Ticketmaster at (805) 583-8700.

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Back by popular demand, Jimmie J.J. Walker will be headlining at the Comedy Stop in the world famous Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel & Casino, from Monday, September 28^th, through October 4^th. Sharing the stage with the Las Vegas resident will be fellow comedians, Paul Lyons and Greg Vaccariello. J.J. Walker opened the Comedy Stop when producer, Bob Kephart moved the famous comedy club into the Sahara Hotel in July, after a 19 year run at another Las Vegas Strip hotel, where the Comedy Stop won the "Best of Las Vegas" award seven times. Jimmie starred in Norman Lear's TV comedy series, Good Times, from 1973 to 1979. "Dyn-o-mite!" was the phrase associated with J.J., and it became famous world-wide. Time magazine named him Comedian of the Decade. Walker did the comedy album, "Dyn-o-mite!" and it was a huge hit and a best seller. When the series ended, Aaron Spelling offered Walker a starring role in the short-lived B.A.D. Cats, and cast him again in 1983 in At Ease, an ABC-TV series about the U.S. Army. But stand up comedy has always remained his first love. Between television appearances or writing scripts for TV and movies, J.J. tours the country, performing 25-30 weeks a year. Greg Vaccariello is a native of The Bronx, attending high school on Long Island. After graduating from college with a teaching degree, he decided to become an actor and enrolled in acting classes in New York. He started doing stand up in 1989. Vaccariello has appeared on such hit TV shows as ED, Law and Order: SVU, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, The King of Queens and Hope and Faith. Greg draws on his personal life and his unique point of view to create an original and predominantly clean stand up act. Paul Lyons is a winner. He's been the inspirational coach for the Washington Generals, Lindsay Lohan and Ted Kaczynski. Paul always is looking on the bright side of everything: although his cat won't use the kitty litter box, Paul says, "My cat thinks outside the box." Reviewers agree: "Lyons is a deviously creative funnyman and is wonderfully wholesome, significantly different and just pure gold." Showtime for the Comedy Stop is 9 p.m. nightly. Tickets are priced from $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a special ticket for Nevada residents (with a valid Nevada drivers license) priced at $19.95 plus tax and fees. Call (702) 737-2515 for further information.

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Vinnie & Gloria Calderone

Tomy Maugeri

From entertainer Diane Ellis comes this sad news...She says, "It is with great pain that I tell you that my daddy, Vinnie passed away recently. My dad touched so many hearts; family, friends, acquaintances; even strangers. Dad always had a song to sing and a joke to tell. He always made everyone feel loved. This hole in my heart, I know, in time, will mend and this fog will be lifted. Daddy left us with a great legacy. He always, ever since I can remember, recorded us. He took lots of footage, and pictures. My dad was a very gifted musician. He totally amazed schooled musicians, because he couldn't read music - he played the accordion by ear and with his heart." Vincent J. Calderone, called "Vinnie" by some and "Jimmy" by others, passed away on September 7^th in Everett, Massachusetts. Vinnie was a 40 year member of the Everett Kiwanis Club, longtime and well known local musician, a member of the Maine Country Western Hall of Fame, and a former winner of the Chance of a Lifetime music talent show. During visits to Las Vegas, he was often called upon to stroll through the local San Gennaro festival, smiling and playing his accordion. He is survived by Gloria, his wife of 62 years, and children Marianne Ciarlone, Vincent, and Diane. He also leaves behind his sisters Phyllis Varricchio and Claire Williams, and brothers George and Joseph (another brother, Edward, preceded him in death), eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held on September 11^th. Condolences can be sent to Mrs. Vincent Calderone, 19 George Street, Everett, MA 02149. Our sympathies to the entire family.

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The Sahara Hotel & Casino has announced new show times for The Magic & Tigers of Rick Thomas, starring (surprise), illusionist Rick Thomas. The show will now be seen daily at 7 p.m. in the Theatre at the Sahara. There will no longer be a 4 p.m. performance on Saturday and Sunday. Ticket prices are $49.95 plus tax and fees (includes preferred seating) for adult VIP admission, $39.95 plus tax and fees for adult general admission, and $19.95 plus tax and fees, general admission, for children under the age of 12. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.saharavegas.com, call (888) 696-2121, or visit the Sahara box office. The Web site and phone number are accessible 24 hours a day and the box office is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

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Last Sunday, one of the segments on CBS's Sunday Morning was entitled Puppy Love, and was hosted by Bill Geist. Geist takes his new puppy to be groomed in a doggy salon owned and operated by former Las Vegan, Tomy Maugeri, considered one of New York City's top groomers. You can't buy that kind of advertising. Well, maybe you can, but it would cost a bundle...a really BIG bundle. And speaking of Sunday Morning (a favorite of ours), this Sunday will feature a segment on Barbra Streisand, in conjunction with the release of her newest album, Love Is the Answer.

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The Nathan Tanouye Sextet will perform tomorrow (Saturday, September 26^th) at the West Las Vegas Arts Center Amphitheatre, 947 W. Lake Mead Blvd., at 2 p.m. Composer, arranger and trombonist Nathan Tanouye brings his jazz sextet to perform in the intimate outdoor amphitheatre. This program, presented by the City Of Las Vegas Cultural Arts & Community Events, is free, and all ages are welcome. For additional information, call (702) 229-4800.

Nathan Tanouye

Mark Nadler

Jimmie Ray & Cyndi Cantrell

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Reminder...
The Sun City Summerlin Fall Arts & Crafts Fair 2009 will take place at the Desert Vista Community Center, 10360 Sun City Blvd., on Saturday, October 3^rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Arts & Crafts Fair is a great time to start holiday shopping. There will be a lot of great gifts for home and office. The items you will find at the Arts & Crafts Fair can not be found anywhere else, since they are all made by the talented residents of Sun City Summerlin. Come and do your shopping early and give someone a very special hand-crafted gift that they will enjoy for years. Admission is free. For more information, call (702) 63-3581.

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And on the other coast...Once a week, through an organization called Art Start, Mark Nadler leads a music workshop for kids in a homeless shelter. You can't believe how joyous it is and how much it means to the kids and their families, and to Mark! On Thursday, October 1^st, Mark is doing a benefit for Art Start at the National Arts Club - a magnificent landmark building on Gramercy Park. He is going to do a show similar to what he used to do at Sardi's (although it won't last four hours), which will be followed by a champagne and dessert reception and silent auction - all this for 50 tax-deductible dollars. Thanks to the generosity of the National Arts Club, (not to mention a donor or two), every penny of the $50 contribution goes to Art Start. And just think...there's no two drink minimum. Your 50 bucks includes all the show you can handle and all the champagne you can drink! For tickets, go to www.art-start.org/events. If you are in New York and this interests you, please buy your tickets sooner than later (like, NOW), as the event is also open to the membership of the NAC and seating is limited. We would hate for you to miss what promises to be an incredibly special evening. For those who aren't in the neighborhood, a tax-deductible contribution to Art Start would be graciously accepted. Check out the organization at www.art-start.org.

And speaking of children and the arts...
The city of Las Vegas' award-winning Rainbow Company Youth Theatre will open its 2009-2010 season with a production of The Witches at Reed Whipple Cultural Center on October 2^nd. This staged version of Roald Dahl's modern children's classic, which runs through the 11^th, retains all the warmth and sly humor of the book. It's a fun fantasy, just in time for Halloween, wrapped up in a frivolous treat of puppetry, intriguing illusions and surprises. Ages 8 through adult will be riveted by this riotous romp, where the witches of nightmares are reduced to the ridiculous. Performances are scheduled at 7 p.m. October 2^nd, 3^rd, 8^th, 9^th and 10^th, with 2 p.m. shows to be held October 4^th, 10^th and 11^th. The Reed Whipple center is located at 821 Las Vegas Blvd. North. Tickets are priced at $3 for children age 12 and under, $5 for teens and seniors, and $7 for adults. Three- and five-show season tickets are available at additional savings and offer special privileges. Tickets are available by mail, telephone or in person. Call Reed Whipple Cultural Center at (702) 229-6211, or Charleston Heights Arts Center at (702) 229-6383 for tickets and more information. For a brochure or more details on the Rainbow Company, go online to www.rainbowcompany.info, or call (702) 229-6553. The Rainbow Company is part of the City of Las Vegas Department of Leisure Services Arts & Community Events Division.

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American music icons, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, left an indelible mark on American society with their passing. In honor of this legendary duo, Jerry's Nugget Casino is presenting A Tribute to the Life and Legend of Johnny Cash on Sunday, September 27^th. The 90-minute show features Jimmie Ray & the Ring of Fire starring Jimmie Ray as Johnny Cash and Cyndi Cantrell as June Carter. Something magical happens when the first notes of "Folsom Prison Blues" are heard and Ray begins singing, "I hear the train a comin'...." The same emotion is felt as Cantrell delivers a heart-rending version of Carter singing, "Help Me Make it Through the Night." Together, they kick into the always crowd pleasing "Jackson." The show is a musical journey from Cash's days in the Arkansas cotton fields, through the very last song he wrote and recorded, "Like the 309." A Tribute to the Life and Legend of Johnny Cash and June Carter will be a special one-night performance, with shows at 5 and 8 p.m. inside the Royal Street Theater. Guests must be at least 21 to attend. Cover is $10 with a two-drink minimum. Entry is first come, first served and based on venue capacity. For information, visit www.JohnnyCashVegasTribute.com. Jerry's Nugget is located at 1821 Las Vegas Blvd. North.

* * * * * *

By next Friday, we hope to have all (or most) of the details regarding the departure of talented Erich Bergen from his role as Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys.

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Tags: Shades Of Sinatra Aron Shanley Martin Nievera Vita Corimbi Mommie Queerest

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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 - September 18, 2009

Paul Pratt

Mommie Queerest

The Onyx Theatre was jumping last night, with almost a full house there to see (and hear) the Naked Boys Singing! Among those cheering on the boys were Larry "Hot Chocolate" Edwards and his very interesting group of friends (who shall remain nameless to protect the guilty). Larry was one of the female impersonators (as Donna Summer and "Beyond" Beyonce in Frank Marino's recent Divas Las Vegas showcase. Who are the boys that dare to bare for Naked Boys Singing!, the campy musical now playing in Las Vegas at The Onyx? What does it take to decide to audition for a show like Naked Boys Singing!, you ask? Well, we wondered too, so we asked some of the boys about their backgrounds and why a show sans (for the most part) costumes. For our first subject, Paul Pratt, Naked Boys Singing! is a piece of cake. Getting naked for the public is second nature to this fellow. Pratt even has his own Internet porn site (honest!). Paul is not just another pretty face, he is a multi-talented actor/singer/dancer who honed his dancing skills with the Joffrey Ballet, Louisville Ballet and Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago. As a working entertainer, Paul has charmed audiences on multiple stages as divergent as Norwegian Cruise Lines with Jean Ann Ryan, and Paramount Theme Parks. His dancing and acrobatic abilities have been highlighted in productions of Les Folies Bergere, Splash and multiple tours of the sensational Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. He recently appeared in the Chicago production of Naked Boys Singing! Paul prides himself on being one of the few performers who can honestly say that they have performed in every aspect of entertainment, from family to adult . When he is not on stage, he studies computer programming with an eye to adding Web site and software design to his already formidable list of talents. Over Labor Day Weekend, while the Naked Boys took a few days off, Paul was one of the six male dancers in Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas production at the Imperial Palace.

And while on the subject of The Onyx Theatre (a favorite hangout of journalist Steve Friess), the cozy performance space has added yet another new and unique offering - Mommie Queerest. Yep. You read that correctly. Joan Crawford - Oscar-Winning Actress. Clean Freak. Obsessed with Wire Hangers. You think you know the whole story? Well, here it is again...this time with a twist! "I wasn't so much laughing as gasping for oxygen," states a writer for the Portland Mercury. "Outrageous slapstick comedy!" says Dallas Examiner. Show times vary (some nights at 7 p.m., some nights at midnight), through October 11^th. Tickets are only $20. The Onyx Theatre is located inside The Rack clothing store in the northeast corner of Commercial Center, 953 E. Sahara, #16. Call (702) 732-7225 for additional information.

* * * * * *

Patrick Swayze

Tish Diaz

Michael Kessler & Melinda Jackson

Some people might be surprised to learn that in the very early part of his career, the late Patrick Swayze was a professional ice skater. Swayze was born in Houston, Texas. His father, Jesse Wayne, had been a champion rodeo cowboy, and his mom, "Patsy" Yvonne Swayze, was a dancer and choreographer who owned the Houston Jazz and Ballet Company. Patrick's parents were not the only performers in the family - Swayze was also a distant relation of actors William Holden and Tom Hulce (best known for playing Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in the film Amadeus). Patrick began dance training with his mother at an early age, focusing on a ballet career even before thoughts of acting. To add to his impressive skills, he had also become an accomplished figure skater, getting his first break into show business when he was offered a role as Prince Charming in the Disney on Parade touring ice show. In 1972, Swayze headed to New York, intent on becoming a professional dancer. He studied at the Joffrey and Harkness Ballet companies and was hired to dance as the principal dancer at the Eliot Feld Ballet Company. However, an old football knee injury hampered him, and he veered from dancing to acting and musical comedy, soon landing Broadway roles in Goodtime Charley, West Side Story and Grease. Encouraged by his successes on Broadway, Swayze moved to Los Angeles and studied acting at the Beverly Hills Playhouse. He soon landed some TV guest-star roles, including a noteworthy performance as a dying soldier on the hit series "M*A*S*H." Swayze made his film debut in the 1979 roller-skating movie, Skatetown USA. This was followed by roles in other films, including The Outsiders (1983), Dirty Dancing (1987), Road House (1989), Ghost (1990), To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar (1995) and Donnie Darko (2001). On September 14^th, Patrick Wayne Swayze died at the age of 57, following an almost two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, actress/dancer Lisa Niemi, his mother, Patsy, and brother Don.

* * * * * *

According to Mike Weatherford's entertainment column in yesterday's Las Vegas Review-Journal, producer Bill Caron is taking his Platters, Cornell Gunter's Coasters and the Marvelettes tribute show out of the Sahara after an impressive, almost seven year, run at that hotel. We have no idea what's behind the move, but the musical revue will vacate the Sahara on October 11^th and open the next night at the Steve Wyrick Theatre. Yes, that's what we said...the Steve Wyrick Theatre. We think the local odds makers should start taking bets on this one. How long would we guess Mr. Caron's show will run at the jinxed facility (the jinx is named Wyrick)? What time is it? Bill Caron is quoted as saying, "I think the theater's got a bad rap," and adds he "would be remiss not to at least give it a shot." This man is either a dreamer or delusional. There is no reason on earth to think the revue will do any better than the good shows put on by Ronn Lucas, Martin Nievera, Aga-Boom, Lord of the Dance, Fan Yang's Mega Bubble show, Tom Dane, Wes Winters, Trent Carlini, Andrew "Dice" Clay and Rockstar the Tribute (we have probably left out someone or something, and for that we apologize). We think we hear the strains of Queens' "Another One Bites the Dust" playing softly in the background.

* * * * * *

Regarding the much anticipated September Composers Showcase at the Liberace Museum, it appears there won't be one, and here is the reason...It seems that our organizer and host, Keith Thompson, will be away during the last Thursday of the month (when these events usually take place). Keith, who is the musical director of Jersey Boys, and Philip Fortenberry, who is the assistant musical director for the same show and also entertains at the Liberace Museum, three afternoons a week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 1), will return to their Alma Mater, William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to produce and perform in a concert to honor voice professor Josephine D'Arpa, who is retiring after 45 years. Thursday, October 1^st has been ruled out as a date for the showcase, since that is the night that Liza Minnelli is supposed to do one of her "gypsy" shows for the entertainers in the city and, to quote Thompson, "We can't compete with that." We will announce the date as soon as it is confirmed. Keith also informs us that one of the females in the Toronto Jersey Boys cast has been diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer that has started spreading. Keith reports that she is young and can't work. There‘s a big sweep in the entertainment community (New York, Toronto, the road companies) to do benefits for her. Local cast member, Leslie Goddard, is spearheading the effort here, wanting to do something to raise some money at the Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum, perhaps on Thursday night, October 15^th (after theater), followed by a second afternoon concert on Sunday, October 18^th, to hit two different target audiences. This will be a Jersey Boys effort but may also include performers from other Vegas shows. We'll keep you posted.

* * * * * *

We think that Cousin Claire needs a vacation. A weekend retreat. Maybe a staycation away from the telephone and the computer. She really goofed in a story last week. Not only did our helpful stringer write the notes about the birthday tribute to Michael Jackson, held in the Pearl Concert Hall at the Palms, in the dark, apparently Claire read them in the dark as well. As punishment, she should be forced to listen to hours of William Hung singing "She Bang," while being forced to watch old Jerry Lewis movies for a couple of days (no one deserves that!). Some of the comments made were mean spirited and should have been kept "just between us girls." By accident, they weren't, and for that we apologize to anyone whose feelings may have been hurt. The most important thing about that July 29^th afternoon is that it was a labor of love, to honor an incredible musician who died much too young ("Gone Too Soon"). The concert, featuring not only professional entertainers, but church choirs and children's choruses and students from local schools (including a string quartet from Green Valley High School who performed Jackson's "Smooth Criminal"). The musicians - with credits playing for artists and shows such as Sheena Easton, Toni Braxton, Andy Williams, Louise Mandrell, Huey Lewis, Zumanity (as well as over ten years of working for Cirque productions worldwide), numerous Broadway national tours, major studio work, and more - included Brian Czach on drums, Jozef Bobula on bass, Jeff Ray on guitar, Anne Charbonneau on keyboards, Angela Chan on keyboards, Tish Diaz on keyboards, Eric Tewalt on sax, Geri Thompson on violin, Melanie Schiemer on violin and Mert Sermet on cello. Pilita Danesh, Brooke Aston and Carly Stotts provided the background vocals. Everyone did a superb job, and more than $100,000 was raised for music education in the Clark County public schools, thanks to Jersey Boy Erich Bergen, journalist Steve Friess, and lots of hard-working volunteers.

We than Tish Diaz for her help with this information.

* * * * * *

Reminder...

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We had the opportunity to check out DeStefano's last Saturday night, when we went to see and hear the Divas - Nina Bjornstad, Joni Illi and Susan Haller. The ladies sang a nice variety of songs, from standards and jazz to Broadway, while accompanied by the Joe Darro Trio, with Joe Darro on keyboards and vocals, Dick Straub on upright bass, and Paco Martin on drums. Spotted among the attendees at the southeast Las Vegas restaurant were president of Musicians Local 369, Frank Leone; jazz junky and Las Vegas Jazz Society board member, Katrina Sumner; publicist/columnist, Jackie Brett; Mel Carter, not the singer, but Greenspun Media's Client Relations guy; singer/songwriter, Rick Poppe; bass player, Norm Ross; and Rusty Hamilton, Musical Director for KC and The Sunshine Band.

Michelle Johnson

Yolanda Quandt

Lynn Ross

We suggest there are too many acts, businesses or shows using the name Diva" or "Divas" (Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas, Michael Shulman's Diva Las Vegas column for Vegas magazine, Michelle Johnson's company, among others). We need to put a freeze on the name/word Divas for a while, as it is getting very confusing.

And speaking of Michelle Johnson...
Michelle and her own band will be providing some of the musical entertainment at the new B.B. King Blues Club, scheduled to open at The Mirage in the fall. The club will feature a variety of great Creole Cuisine fused with southern comfort touch, live music every night of the week and eclectic folk art. Steaks, fresh seafood, mouth watering bar-b-q, cajun pasta and plenty of appetizers all come together to create the perfect combination of delicious food, energetic music, cold drinks and a great time, all packed into one location. B.B. King's Blues Club, "Its Good For Your Soul." Also, Michelle reports that she is doing backup singing with the Zowie Bowie big band at the Monte Carlo. She will be featured on at least one song. There was a soft opening last Sunday, September 13^th. (Shows are Sundays at 7:30 p.m.) Michelle describes the shows as "similar to a Steve and Eydie show" and features surprise guests. Last week they had Frankie Scinta, and this coming Sunday Vince Neil from Motley Crew is sitting in singing "Fly Me To the Moon" The big band charts were done by Joe Escriba and Dave Perrico. Perrico is conducting. Congratulations, Ms. Johnson.

* * * * * *

On Wednesday, September 16^th, some entertainers with Las Vegas connections (either now or in the past) - comic Rita Rudner, Lamonte McLemore of the 5^th Dimension, and Cassandra "Elvira" Peterson, who used to live and work here - celebrated birthdays. Yesterday, the 17^th, Montel "Gooch" Williams, son of Grace "Bambi Jr." Moerhle Coronel, and former talk show host, Montel Williams, turned 16. Also birthday wishes to Bart Williams, Melissa Jane Miles, Bill Medley, Paul Williams, Paul Hansell and Sonny Turner, who all celebrate this week. We will have details about Nelson Sardelli's celebration next week.

* * * * * *

Yolanda Quandt will have her turn at the mic at DeStefano's tonight, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. According to the info we got from Marsha K. Ross, Ms. Quandt will sing "Ellington and much more," backed by the Joe Darro Trio. DeStefano's is at 3430 E. Tropicana, on the northeast corner of Tropicana and Pecos. For reservations, call (702) 436-3275.

And speaking of DeStefano's...Lynn Ross wants it known that, effective immediately, she will no longer be performing at, nor hosting, the Monday Night Cabaret at DeStefano's. All of her dates at the southeast establishment have been cancelled. Lynn states that she is so very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. She would like to send her love and appreciation to all the wonderful musicians, entertainers and friends who came out each week to perform and support the cabaret series. "It was so much fun," says Lynn, "and I will hold the memories near to my heart."

* * * * * *

The Edwards Twins

Adam Pero at Hash House a Go Go

Look for the Edwards Twins to take their unique revue into Hennessey's Tavern in downtown Las Vegas, beginning on New Years Eve. The identical twins impersonate a number of musical stars, with Anthony Edwards taking on Neil Diamond, Billy Joel and Elton John, and Eddie Edwards performing as Cher, Bette Midler and Barbra Streisand. Where else can you get dinner and a show featuring a stage full of stars for less than $50? Hennessey's is located at 425 Fremont Street (at the east end of the Fremont Street Experience, on the southwest corner of Fremont and Las Vegas Blvd.). We will have more on the twins and this show in mid-December.

* * * * * *

Every Thursday night, beginning at 5, Hash House a Go Go, offers half-price bottled wine, with the minimum purchase of one entrée (Hint: If you have never been to Hash House a Go Go, one entrée could feed a small army...but no sharing allowed). Full bottles of wine start at only $11. This restaurant, located at 6800 W. Sahara, is a great place to celebrate a special occasion. The fun is built in, at no extra charge. Call (702) 804-4646.

* * * * * *

The Supreme Mary Wilson performs at Feinstein's at Loews Regency in Manhattan, this Wednesday, September 23^rd at 8:30 p.m.

* * * * * *

Rich Natole

Comic impressionist Rich Natole will be Ed Bernstein's special guest on Bernstein's TV show this Sunday. The show airs in Las Vegas at 4 p.m. on Channel 3, the NBC affiliate. Despite what you may have heard elsewhere, although Penny Lane: The Ultimate Beatles Tribute has left the building, but Natole is still hanging in there, entertaining audiences with a bunch of voices that don't sound like his. Rich performs Voices of a Generation in the Bobby Slayton showroom at the Tropicana, Tuesdays through Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $29.95 plus tax. Reservations can be made by calling the Tropicana box office at (800) 829-9034.

And speaking of the Trop, those Wayne Newton rumors are circulating again. Will the onetime "Midnight Idol" (currently the "Midnight Idle") go into the theater that formerly housed Les Folies Bergere, or won't he? Only his hairdresser knows for sure. Stay tuned.

* * * * * *

We attended a terrific pre-show get-together on Tuesday night, prior to seeing Sgt. Pepper Live, featuring Cheap Trick, at the Las Vegas Hilton. During the before-show gathering, we had the opportunity to catch some of More & Gendel, the musical duo playing in the Tempo Lounge, from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays, and from 8 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. They are an entertaining twosome who definitely liven up the place. As for Sgt Pepper Live, featuring Cheap Trick, the production has a definite audience. Is it the Beatles songbook or Cheap Trick that is the attraction? Hard to say. Whichever it is, the interest is obvious. This presentation did great business for the Hilton, September 13^th through 15^th. The extravaganza (there is a 23-piece symphony orchestra on stage), presented by Bill Edwards, is back at the Hilton, through tomorrow night and then comes back, the 21^st through the 23^rd. This nine shows, over 11 nights, is a test of sorts, to see what kind of general appeal the concept would have. Based on the results, you can probably expect to see Sgt Pepper Live, featuring Cheap Trick, become a recurring show next year. In addition to the members of Cheap Trick - Robin Zander on lead vocals and guitar; Rick Nielsen on guitar and vocals; Bun E Carlos on drums and vocals, and Tom Petersson on bass and vocals - Joan Osborne, Rob Laufer, Bill Lloyd and Ian Ball join the party. Ms. Osborne is best known for her song, "One of Us," and for her work with members of The Grateful Dead. Rob has played with Frank Black, Fiona Apple, George Martin, Johnny Cash, Shawn Colvin and others. His music has been used in commercials for HP, Honda, Ford, Acura, Chevrolet, Sears, Jet Blue and featured in many films and TV shows. We enjoyed hearing a potion of the Beatles songbook, but had one criticism, and that was the sound, which generally was way too loud. Oddly, we were unable to hear any of the vocals provided by the Clark County Children's Choir on "Across the Universe," or the background singers - Jake Snyder, Stevie Snyder, Zachery Snyder, Brian Beebe, Jay Goeppner and David J. McClellan - perched on the stage "balcony" with the orchestra and music director, Edwin Outwater.

Cheap Trick

Sgt. Pepper Live at Hilton

On a personal note...We wonder why Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen, chose to acknowledge only two people in the media night/invited guests audience - the R-J's Norm What's-His-Name, and that has-been, legend-in-his-own-mind, gadabout/gadfly, named for something he crawled out from under? Why no shout out to a real journalist like John Katsilometes; or musician Billy Hinsche, of Dino (Dean Paul Martin), Desi (Desi Arnaz Jr.) and Billy, and Beach Boys fame; or the Las Vegas Sun's Jerry Fink or Joe Brown or Mark Whittington; or CityLife's Mike Prevatt; or Michael Shulman, formerly of Vegas magazine; or Danny Seraphine, the original drummer for the band Chicago, and singer Gino Vannelli ("I Just Wanna Stop," "Living Inside Myself"), who comes into the Hilton theater on September 27^th? We are not blaming Mr. Nielsen. He couldn't have named everyone, and neither could we. Tickets for Gino Vannelli range from $29 to $99, plus taxes and fees.

* * * * * *

Tim Dunn, the incredible female impersonator who looks more like Dionne Warwick than the lady herself, will be one of the judges for the Miss Gay Western States America Pageant to be held tomorrow night, September 19^th, at the Wyndham Hotel and Resort in Phoenix, Arizona. Miss Gay Western States, now in its 11^th year, is an official preliminary to the National Miss Gay America Pageant, where more than 70 professional female impersonators compete annually. Earlier this year, Miss Gay Western States was acquired by Kenneth Blake (a former Miss Gay Western States competitor, who portrayed both Dolly Parton and Madonna in the Riviera's An Evening At La Cage, and in Frank Marino‘s Divas Las Vegas Labor Day weekend debut at the Imperial Palace) and Mr. Lee Revelle of Phoenix. Dunn, a celebrity make-up artist, who recently did his spot on Warwick impression at Goodtimes, in a show hosted by the talented Kenny Kerr, will be joined by additional judges, Mikaila Kay, Miss Gay America 2008; Mark Gaston, Artistic Director of Phoenix's Grand Canyon Performing Arts; Gene Flores, Director of the Miss Asia Arizona Pageant; and Brandi Sobeleski, Director of Phoenix Gay Pride and the Miss Gay Pride Pageant Director. The five decision-makers will face the difficult task of selecting the winner of categories involving interviews and onstage questions, solo talent, production talent and an evening gown parade. The prize package totals more than $4,000. Good luck, "ladies."

Tim Dunn as Tim Dunn

Larry Gelbart

Jeff Hobson

* * * * * *

Sun City Summerlin will hold its 2009 Fall Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, October 3^rd, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a great time to start holiday shopping. There will be a lot of great gifts for your home and office. The items you will find at the Arts & Crafts Fair can not be found anywhere else, since they are all made by the talented residents of Sun City Summerlin. Plan to do your holiday shopping early and give someone a very special hand-crafted gift that they will enjoy for years. The place is the Desert Vista Community Center, 10360 Sun City Blvd. Admission is free. For more information, call (702) 363-3581.

* * * * * *

You may not know the name, but we betcha you will know his work. Larry Gelbart, the award-winning comedy writer best known for developing the landmark TV series M*A*S*H, died last Friday, three months after he was diagnosed with cancer. The Chicago-born Gelbart was also the co-writer of the book for the hit Broadway musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, as well as the 1982 classic movie comedy, Tootsie, starring Dustin Hoffman. M*A*S*H debuted on CBS in 1972, with Gelbart serving as executive script consultant. He shared an Emmy when it won for outstanding comedy series in 1974. The son of Eastern European immigrants, Larry Gelbart spoke only Yiddish until he was four years old. In 1942, when he was 14, Mr. Gelbart's family moved to Los Angeles, where his barber father's Beverly Hills clientele included many actors and agents, perhaps setting young Larry on his road into the world of entertainment. Larry Gelbart was 81.

Many years ago, a Vegas character who professed to be an actor and drama coach, created a history for himself that was pure fiction. Among his claims, this fellow, with the initials J.B. (no, not the late Joseph Bernard), told people that he was a Hollywood script writer, stating that he worked on the Mary Tyler Moore Show, Hill Street Blues, and M*A*S*H. When this man decided to run for president of the local Screen Extras (or Actors) Guild, some of the legitimate actors in Vegas knew that they needed to expose this guy as a phony. They called on a local journalist who set about checking on all of the wannabes "credits." A portion of the detective work involved trying to confirm or deny the "writing" claims. One of the calls was made to Larry Gelbart's literary agent. It so happened that Mr. Gelbart, who, with Gene Reynolds, WAS indeed a M*A*S*H script writer, was spending his summer in Connecticut but, no matter. The agent was able to say, without a doubt, that the man in Las Vegas, making these claims, was not telling the truth. The same thing was confirmed by the people at Hills Street Blues. That could have been the end of this little tale, except for a phone call that the amateur detective received a couple of months later. The caller was Larry Gelbart himself. It seems he was intrigued by the Vegas pretender and wanted to know more about him. The conversation, which lasted about 10 minutes, provided not only insight into the Writer‘s Guild (which J.B. did not belong to) and other interesting Hollywood info, but some laughs as well. We are deeply saddened by Mr. Gelbart's death and send our sincere sympathies to his family.

If you were interested enough to have read this far, we are pleased to let you know, that J.B. did not get voted into the Guild.

* * * * * *

We got a big kick out of last weekend's show at The Orleans. Paul Stone's production, Britain's Top Talent, offered a variety show reminiscent of the old Ed Sullivan days. Nathalie Enterline took Charlie Chaplin's cane and bowler hat to a new level with her unique and well choreographed routine, while Arron Sparks was a whiz with yo yos. Magic man, Paul Zenon mystified the audience and handsome Ben Stone, accompanied by a live band and backup singers, Nikki Logan and Serena Henry, charmed them. The Overtures, Elton John's favorite band, had the room rocking with their cover tunes. We have to say, though, that our personal favorite was the show's riotous MC/host, Jeff Hobson. We defy any person to experience Mr. Hobson at work and not leave a theater feeling much better than when they entered. A special treat was having Hobson utilize an audience member that we knew in one of his quick routines. Musician Doug Saleeby (of Hudson & Saleeby fame) did not know that, while visiting from Memphis, he (who slyly identified himself as "George from Oshkosh") would become part of the show. It was all great fun.

James Dunn & mum Lesley

Paul Campanella Jr.

Another treat was the presence of 16-year-old James Dunn in the audience. James, who suffers from a rare disease called EB, was flown from London, with his parents, just to attend this show. James, is a big magic fan, and was thrilled to meet Siegfried & Roy when they were honored at the London Palladium last year. Paul Stone, who produced the Siegfried & Roy event in London, as well as Britain's 'Top Talent at The Orleans, is the one who arranged for this special trip for the Dunn family. The extra bonus was having Siegfried & Roy in the Orleans audience for last Sunday night's show.

Happy birthday to Danny Stone, Paul Stone's son and Ben Stone's big brother, who turned 27 on Sunday.

Regarding Producer Paul Stone's Britain's Top Talent MagiCaresTM show, in the 810-seat Orleans Showroom, for performances on September 11^th, 12^th and 13^th., Las Vegas based actor and all around entertainer Paul Campanella, co star of Tony 'n Tina's Wedding, informs us (rather proudly) that his son, Paul Campanella Jr., will be the drummer for this fabulous show. Musical Director Pat Caddick has brought him aboard to supply the needed backbeat. In other news, Paul Sr., is getting ready to produce his second Actor's Showcase in Hollywood this year in November. The first was a live theater performance which took place back on April 15th at The Hudson Theater in Hollywood to rave reviews. This time, Paul will be taking 30 actors to L.A. for a three day filming marathon of short two minute scenes, which will then be uploaded to a private website where an estimated 1,000 industry professionals can log on to view some of the best talent The Remington Agency of Las Vegas/LA has to offer. Paul has been teaching "Acting for the Camera" classes and has recently received some high profile endorsements from Adrianna Porcaro, Director of Talent at Sony Pictures Television, who said, "Any actor who spends just three weeks with Paul will a better actor for it" and Shari Rhodes, Casting Director for the Award Winning TV series Breaking Bad, said, "Taking Paul's class is making Las Vegas actors more bookable." For more info on Paul's classes and future showcases, e-mail Paul at paulcampanella7@gmail.com.

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The Barrick Lecture Series event, "An Evening with Garrison Keillor," scheduled for September 23^rd, has been postponed. Garrison Keillor, host of the popular radio program, A Prairie Home Companion, has been advised by doctors to avoid air travel after suffering a mild stroke earlier in the month. Lake Wobegon's favorite son anticipates being able to reschedule at a future date, though specific information is not yet available. UNLV will have details soon on a ticket exchange process for people holding passes to the September 23^rd event. For more information, please call (702) 895-2787.

Garrison Keillor

Michael Grimm

Liberace

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Everyone is invited to the Las Vegas Blues Festival, next Saturday, September 26^th, from noon to 6 p.m. at Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza in Lorenzi Park. Presented by the City of Las Vegas in conjunction with the Las Vegas Blues Society, this family event will include performances by Michael Grimm and Delta Bound with the Big Easy Horns, The Andy Walo Trio, Ronnie Rose, Glenn Patrik and The Lucky Cheats. H & H Barbeque will offer food for purchase. Beverages will be sold by the Las Vegas Blues Society. Tickets for the afternoon are priced at $5 general admission, available at the gate on event day. The gates will open at 11 a.m. Bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating. No glass containers, pets or outside food or beverages will be permitted. The outdoor theatre plaza is located on the west side of Lorenzi Park at 720 Twin Lakes Drive. Enter off Twin Lakes Drive south of West Washington Avenue. For more information on Blues, Brews and Barbeque, call (702) 229-1087.

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Next Friday, September 25^th, the Seventh Annual Nevada Entertainer/Artist Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place in the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on the UNLV campus. This year's inductees are, arts patron, Bernice Fischer; business owner and former Nevada Lt. Governor, Lorraine Hunt-Bono; entertainers Liberace and Siegfried & Roy; and award-winning architect, William E. Snyder. The event, which awards famous individuals and industry executives, presents each inductee with what is called the "Sydney Award," named after George Sydney, three-time Oscar award winner, and the first ever inductee to the Nevada Entertainer/Artist Hall of Fame. The "Sydney Award" was developed to honor those who have contributed so much to Nevada and Las Vegas. The ceremony, which starts at 6:30 p.m., is free and open to the public. There will be a VIP fundraising reception following the ceremony. Tickets are required for that part of the evening. For more information, call the UNLV College of Fine Arts at (702) 895-2455.

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Three veterans of stand up comedy will take over the stage of the Comedy Stop in the Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel, from Monday September 21^st, through Sunday the 27^th. Producer Bob Kephart has Phil Palisoul heading up the cast, with Mitchell Walters and Jackson Perdue filling out the roster. Palisoul is one funny dude, according to those who have reviewed him over the years. Mathew Berry, ESPN's senior fantasy sports editor, said of Phil on his blog: "A guy no one has ever heard of, but Phil is a friend of mine and is absolutely hilarious." This comment, by a friend, is not totally true, as Palisoul has appeared on many of the top television shows including, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Comedy Central's Premium Blend, NBC's Last Comic Standing and The Rosie O'Donnell Show. His amusement park routine is considered a classic as is most of his material: "Would you believe that I woke up one morning and I was bald...." Walters' comedy has been described as a fit for every man. From musings about relationships to family life, he keeps audience members in stitches. Walters has performed in almost every comedy club throughout Canada and the United States, and toured for three years as one of the Outlaws of Comedy, starring the late Sam Kinison. In addition to being a stand up comedian, Mitchell was an active joke writer for such shows as Laverne & Shirley, and Rowan & Martin's Laugh In. The youngster of the group, Perdue, grew up in San Diego, Calif., and was obsessed with baseball and dreamed of one day becoming a professional player. "The problem was I could field like Brooks Robinson, but I hit like Doris Day." Jackson's father was in the Navy when he married Kiyoko in Japan. Perdue talks about his cross cultural background in his act: "Dad would take me fishing and mom would eat the bait on the way there..." Perdue's career as a stand up comedian was honed in small open microphone clubs before he was discovered by the owner of the famed Comedy Store in Hollywood. Jackson has been a regular performer for years.

Showtime for the Comedy Stop, inside the Congo Room is 9 p.m. nightly. Tickets are priced from $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a special ticket for Nevada residents (with a valid Nevada drivers license) priced at $19.95 plus tax and fees. For information call (702) 737-2515.

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Tags: Patrick Swayze Tish Diaz Michael Kessler Melinda Jackson Yolanda Quandt Lyn

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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 - September 11, 2009

Sandy Hackett

Jerry Lewis

Jeffrey Ross

Looks like very serious problems between The Rat Pack Is Back! co-producers, Sandy Hackett and Dick Feeney. Now in its 10^th year and at its fourth Vegas hotel (Desert Inn, Sahara, Greek Isles and Plaza), the tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey and Dean has managed to survive legal battles involving David Cassidy (who, with Don Reo, produced the first of the Rat Pack tribute shows at the Desert Inn in 1999) and the Frank Sinatra family. Will this latest problem be the poison that kills the cash cow? According to what we have heard and read (we have a copy of the Cease and Desist letter from Los Angeles attorney, Howard E. King, who is representing Hackett), Feeney has ousted Hackett from his own show! Sandy, who not only wrote the show and portrayed Joey Bishop (who he knew since his childhood) in various versions of the productions (there are touring casts and shows), but whose father, the late Buddy Hackett, provides the voice of "God" in the revues' opening set up. How can he be banished from something he created? Anyway, we think this could get really, REALLY ugly. Stay tuned.

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Although a local entertainment writer says that Earl Turner will be back in the Las Vegas Hilton's Voices show when he returns from a two week gig at sea, we hear that hasn't yet been decided. We had been told (by those folks known as "reliable sources"), as we wrote last week, that Turner would not be returning to the Shimmer Showroom, and that the talented Lani Misalucha, formerly with the Society of Seven, would carry on, doing her own show and featuring alternating guests. So...once again, we wait for a final decision. As we go to press, Lani, who was supposed to debut her solo show tonight, will now go on next Thursday night instead. We suggest checking with the Hilton before planning your evening, as, right now, everything seems very iffy. Call (702) 732-5755.

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So Labor Day 2009 has come and gone and so, thank goodness, has the annual Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon (the 44^th) and what's left of Jerry Lewis' career. Have we ever mentioned how much we dislike Jerry Lewis? The answer is, "yes," we have. We want to say that we STILL dislike him. In fact, at 83-years-of-age, we dislike him even more than we did 50-some years ago, when he and Dean Martin went their separate ways! This obnoxious man has had decades to perfect his rudeness. His success in this area of his life shows up in a number of ways, one being the fact that the televising of this year's telethon did not attract a large audience to the South Point. Yes, a lot of money is raised for a worthy cause but we feel Jerry has very little to do with that success. If not for our longtime friend, Eddie Foy III, and the talent he assembles to perform (often in the middle of the night) during all those hours, there would be no reason to tune in to this showcase. Lewis' next award should be given for "Bad Behavior by a TV Host." During the short periods that we tuned in, we were happy to see the high energy Charo (too bad Mr. Lewis had to demean her generous and voluntary performance by suggesting that the men in the audience had erections as a result of her number), Charlie Frye and Company and Ronn Lucas on the show. Oh, and by the way, $60.5 million was raised last weekend...that's assuming that everyone who made a commitment comes through on their promise. On former Las Vegan Jimmy Kimmel's Tuesday night show, both Kimmel and guest comic Jeffrey Ross had a good time, at Lewis' expense. Ross told about the success of the telethon when he stated that on Monday, a 7-year-old kid got up out of his wheelchair and walked for the first time...to the television to turn off the Jerry Lewis Telethon. We think we love Jeffrey Ross!

Charo

Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas

After performing three different numbers for the telethon, Charo took a fall as she was leaving the South Point, requiring a trip to emergency at Sunrise Hospital. The next day, suffering very painful injuries and a possible broken ankle, Miss Cuchi Cuchi was transported to a Southern California hospital for further treatment. Her well reviewed show at the Riviera has been put on hold. We wish Charo a very speedy recovery.

And still on the subject of Labor Day weekend...We know about the Battle of the Bands, but Labor Day weekend in Las Vegas saw the Battle of the Broads...well, sort of. After seven months away from the Vegas Strip, female impersonator Frank Marino, with a cast of famous "ladies," took over the showroom at the Imperial Palace for four nights, from Friday through Monday. Host/emcee Frank, channeling Joan Rivers for his monologue, and becoming Glamarino as he, in some fabulous fashions, introduces "Lady Gaga" and "Britney Spears," portrayed by ABC's The Next Best Thing and NBC's America's Got Talent competitor, Derrick Barry; "Liza Minnelli" (Sammy Gonzales); "Diana Ross" (Crystal Wood); "Madonna" and "Dolly Parton" (Kenneth Blake); "Wynonna" (Jimmy Emerson); "Bette Midler" (Coco Vega); "Celine" and "Cher," (both played by Steven Wayne); and "Beyond Beyonce" and "Donna Summer" (Larry Edwards). Then, there are the Brad Barnes and Gary Thomas choreographed Frank Marino Dancers, made up of six really talented men - Jonathan Arsenault, Jeremy Butcher, Michael Cammarata, Stephen Lowry (Tony 'n Tina's Wedding), Jason Mackenzie and Paul Pratt (who is also one of the stars in Naked Boys Singing! at The Onyx in Vegas). Marino is not only the star of Divas Las Vegas, he is also co-producer with Adam Steck and Alex Schechter of SPI Entertainment. Word has it that the eight shows (two a night for the four nights) attracted about 5,000 people. We think the IP would be missing the boat if they didn't bring the Divas in as a permanent attraction. We suggest Matsuri, the Japanese muscle musical in the afternoon for family viewing; the Australian singing group, Human Nature, in the early evening; and Frank Marino and company at 10 p.m. No charge for our advice.

And on Monday night, it was longtime Las Vegas favorite Kenny Kerr, joined by female impersonators, Tim Dunn as "Dionne Warwick" (absolutely amazing!) and Ryan Zink as "Reba McEntire," at Goodtimes on East Tropicana. Kenny, too long away from Vegas, was in top form with his adult-type humor and vocals (no lip-synching for him). The SRO showroom contained lots of old friends and fans, including Howard Jochsberger, Paul Hansell, The Edwards Twins (Anthony and Eddie Edwards), Grant Philipo, and Anne Davis Mulford, also known as the world famous "Princess Anne," Marvin Nathan, Wes Winters, Rod Russell, and hypnotist Ken Owens, to name but a few. We have it on good authority that, beginning on October 2^nd, Kenny Kerr, who now makes his home in Palm Springs, will be traveling to Las Vegas to perform at DeStefano's on Friday and Saturday nights.

Tim Dunn as Dionne Warwick

Naked Boys Singing!

Jimmy Emerson

And speaking of those Naked Boys...After taking off for Labor Day weekend, the Boys are back onstage at The Onyx, undressed and raring to go. If you haven't seen the Naked Boys Singing! (or dancing, or acting), get your bad selves over to The Onyx Theatre inside The Rack in the northeast corner of Commercial Center. Join the Red Hat Ladies, the fellows from Flex, your 5-year-olds' kindergarten teacher, those wild and crazy bachelorettes, and your pastor, for an afternoon (Sundays at 3) or evening (Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 10) of music and fun. Tickets for the Jimmy Emerson and Michael Morse production are $30 each. Call the Onyx (953 E. Sahara) at (702) 732-7225.

And speaking of Jimmy Emerson...On Wednesday, September 16^th, the longtime comedy lead in the Riviera's An Evening at La Cage, Mr. Oh So Busy (he just finished portraying Wynonna in Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas at the Imperial Palace), will serve as MC/host at the Monday night Divas Off the Strip at Goodtimes in the Liberace Plaza; is co-producer, with Michael Morse, of Naked Boys Singing! at The Onyx Theatre in Commercial Center; and, as Starr Pro Productions, is just winding up a 10 night engagement of Vegas Nights at the Northern Quest Casino outside of Spokane) will host A Tribute to the Fabulous Billie Duncan at the Avant Garden Arts and Entertainment venue, 411 Westheimer in Houston (that's Texas, y'all). Who is Billie Duncan, you ask? The lady ran talent showcases in Houston for many years, producing and supporting some of the finest acts the city has ever known. For the past several years, Ms. Duncan has been working for a Las Vegas production company, most recently writing specialty material for comedian Rip Taylor. Billie has had a long and varied career as an author, reporter, entertainer, photographer and political activist, and, although she has been in a wheelchair since 2003, she managed to earn a master's degree in English and return to creating art. Her art is digital collage (her own photography, drawing and painting with scanned images and iconic photos) combined with architectural elements. Duncan's 8 p.m. art show at Avant Garden is about the hope for peace in universes of destruction. The Houston Poetry Slam Showcase will take place outside at 7:30 p.m., with Poetry Readings from 8 to 9 p.m. Live entertainment, featuring David Fahl, Mary Allen, John Gorman, Fyrst Tryp, Jim McCrindle, The Unknown Magician, 61 Cygni and Hillary Arwen, will take place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Of course, it is hoped that the Fabulous Ms. Duncan will also perform at some time during the night. And, by the way, it's Billie Duncan's birthday! If you happen to be in the Longhorn state...

And speaking of birthdays, Bonnie Saxe and JoAnn Toranto were inadvertently left off of last weeks list of Virgo celebrants. We wish both ladies a very happy and healthy year.

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As we expected her to do, Kelly Clinton once again charmed and entertained a full house last Saturday at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin. With special guests Elisa Fiorillo as Barbra Streisand to Kelly's Neil Diamond, Bill Fayne as Sonny Bono to Kelly's Cher, and Michelle Johnson who did a beautiful solo on "What the World Needs Now," and then joined Kelly in a duet of "For Good," from Broadway's Wicked, Ms. Clinton kept the audience in the palm of her hand from beginning to end in her tour de force performance. Whether as Wayne Newton, with whom Kelly sang back up some years back, or "Kelvis" in a blue jumpsuit and cape, there are always unexpected surprises for the audience. Ms. Clinton's created character, Joe Joe Spaghetti Moretti, shows just how good she is at improv. Although some of the dialogue is repeated from show-to-show, there is always something new and fresh and clever. Last Saturday, we especially liked Joe Joe's bantering with the Capaldi family - entertainers Domenick Allen and Leigh Zimmerman and their daughter, Cayleigh. Another favorite moment involved the "rain curtain" effect in the Wayner's "MacArthur Park" number.

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Nina, Joni, Susan - The Divas

Wes Winters

It seems that DeStefano's Italian Supper Club, located in southeast Las Vegas, is becoming a popular hangout for those who like to get their entertainment fix away from the Strip. There is something going on at the restaurant on East Tropicana at Pecos just about every night. For example, tomorrow night, it will be The Divas - made up of vocalists, Nina Bjornstad, Susan Haller and Joni Illi - from 7:30 to 10:30. Two beautiful blondes and a "sassy" redhead, backed by the Joe Darro Trio, team up for an evening of Broadway, standards and original cabaret.

Joni will sing some love songs and standards from her CD, Susan will do some gospel, some funny stuff and perhaps a couple of original tunes, while Nina, the Baby Diva, will do some theater selections with her trained voice. Together, the ladies will do "Sentimental Journey" and "Big Spender" among others.

Also happening at DeStefano's...On Monday night's, from 7:30 to 10:30, it's Life is a Cabaret with host Lynn Ross. This week's theme is a Tribute to Frank Sinatra. DeStefano's is located 3430 E. Tropicana at Pecos. Phone (702) 436-3275.

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On Sunday, beginning at 8 p.m., Wes Winters, will create a real party atmosphere in the Celebration Lounge of the Tropicana Hotel. If anyone can put a crowd in a party mood, it's this fun-loving piano man. The new lounge has a South Beach feel, so wear your bright tropical colors to the party. There is no cover charge and no drink minimum. Come ready to dance!

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Michael Kessler & Melinda Jackson

Paul Stone

Michael Kessler and Melinda Jackson are back at the Charleston Heights Arts Center by popular demand. Next Saturday, September 19th,, at 2 p.m., they will premiere their new show, Dance With Me - Love Songs & Dances & Backstage Stories, with members of the M&M American Dance Theatre. Featuring Music Director, Keith Thompson of Jersey Boys, M&M presents an intimate look at the creation of original song and dance numbers, from Great American Songbook classics, including Gershwin, Porter and Berlin, to contemporary tunes by Ben E. King and Tim McGraw. Dance With Me combines great music, dynamic, romantic, partner dancing, and zany humor, resulting in 90-minutes of fun. Michael and Melinda's performances have been called "Genuine romance... top notch entertainment," by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, and "...lively...acrobatic...elegant...an evening of fun...skillful craftsmanship," in the New York Times. Tickets are $10, and $8 for seniors and students. The Charleston Heights Arts Center is located at 800 S. Brush Street, near W. Charleston and Decatur. Call (702) 229-6383 for reservations, or purchase at the door.

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As we mentioned last Friday, Paul Stone's variety show, Britain's Top Talent, is in the 800+ seat theater at The Orleans, tonight through Sunday night. Featuring international performers - Arron Sparks from the UK, a young who does amazing things with yo yos; Paul Zenon, a well established top UK TV magician and game show celebrity; England's new rising singing star, Ben Stone (accompanied by a live band); and The Overtures, Sir Elton John's favorite '60s Tribute Band From New York comes special guest, Nathalie Enterline, who does some amazing things with a hat and cane, and, from Las Vegas, it's the hilarious comic magician, Jeff Hobson (the love child of Liberace and Paul Lynde) serving as emcee/host. The Shows are supporting MagiCaresTM The Magic Charity, and there will be a special pre-show VIP reception on Saturday, September 12^th, featuring the British Micro Sculptor, Willard Wigan, who produces incredible sculptures all inside the eye of a needle or on a pin head. ( Check out his website www.willardwigan.com ). Willard Wigan supports only two charities, MagiCaresTM, and the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. Paul Stone launched MagiCaresTM with Siegfried & Roy ( who are Honorary Trustees ) at the London Palladium Theatre last September. The MagiCaresTM reception at the Orleans will benefit Opportunity Village and Siegfried & Roy's SARMOTI (Siegfried and Roy, Masters of the Impossible) Foundation. Wigan, who appeared on the Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien on August 12^th, created a sculpture of Siegfried & Roy, which will be auctioned off at The Orleans event on September 12^th. Tickets for Britain's Top Talent are $29.95, $39.95 and $49.95 plus taxes and fees. Call (702) 365-7075 for reservations to this all family show.

A special guest will be in the audience this weekend, thanks to the generosity of Paul Stone. Young James Dunn, a teenager who suffers from the rare disease, EB, has come from England with his parents to see Britain's Top Talent. James is a big fan of magic, and is a great admirer of Siegfried & Roy. He had the opportunity to meet the magicians at an event at the London Palladium last year. He hopes to have the chance to see them again during his Las Vegas visit. We have a feeling that will happen.

And speaking of Paul Stone, his popular Variety Live will return to the Suncoast for shows on November 28^th, 29^th and 30^th, and his World Stars of Magic returns to the hotel casino on December 11^th, 12^th and 13^th.

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Prominent conductor Edwin Outwater is joining the Sgt. Pepper Live project once again to lead the full symphony orchestra for "Sgt. Pepper Live" featuring Cheap Trick at the Las Vegas Hilton. He was the guest conductor at both "Sgt. Pepper Live" shows at the Hollywood Bowl and will be guest conducting the Las Vegas Hilton shows, Sept. 13-15, 17-19 and 21-23.

Edwin Outwater is currently the music director of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony in Ontario, Canada. Prior to his current position, he served as resident conductor of the San Francisco Symphony and held the post of music director of the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra. In both capacities, he worked closely with Michael Tilson Thomas, accompanying the orchestra on tour and conducting numerous concerts each season. He made his subscription debut in 2002, with Kurt Masur conducting Britten's "War Requiem," and has collaborated with Yo-Yo Ma, Evelyn Glennie and many others. Outwater has appeared with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the Adelaide Symphony, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the National Youth Orchestra of New Zealand. He was awarded the Leonard Bernstein award for excellence in educational programming, and the MET LIFE award for community outreach. Outwater is a Harvard University graduate with a master's degree in conducting from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Cheap Trick is best known for its classic singles "I Want You To Want Me" and "Surrender." The band recorded the album All Shook Up in 1980 with Sir George Martin and Geoff Emerick, producer and engineer of The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Emerick will continue to be in charge of the audio production for "Sgt. Pepper Live." He received Grammy awards for the engineering of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" and "Abbey Road." Shows for "Sgt. Pepper Live," featuring Cheap Trick at the Las Vegas Hilton, are at 8 p.m. on September 13^th, 14^th, 15^th, 17^th, 18^th, 19^th, 21^st, 22^nd and 23^rd. Tickets are priced at $65, $80 and $95, plus tax and fees. A portion of the proceeds for each show's ticket sales will be donated to the Grammy Foundation and MusiCares. Tickets can be purchased at the Las Vegas Hilton box office or by logging onto www.lvhilton.com, , www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (702) 732-5755 or 1-800-222-5361. For more information on "Sgt. Pepper Live" featuring Cheap Trick, please visit www.LVHilton.com, www.CheapTrick.com or www.BillEdwardsPresents.com.

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Brass Roots Quintet

Justin Hopkins

The City Of Las Vegas Cultural Arts & Community Events presents the Brass Roots Quintet Concert, tomorrow at Reed Whipple Cultural Center. Everyone is invited to enjoy a Special Tea Saturday concert at 2 p.m. These professional musicians perform an exciting, eclectic mix of music that ranges from classical to contemporary. Enjoy great music and light refreshments, including hot teas. Trombone player and group leader Walt Boenig toured with the Glenn Miller and Harry James orchestras, and played in Las Vegas showroom bands since 1975. Tony Scodwell played trumpet in several big bands, and toured with Doc Severinsen, James, Buddy Rich, and the Stan Kenton and Dorsey orchestras. Rocky Lombardo (trumpet) has performed professionally in Denver, San Francisco and Las Vegas, and is included in many television specials and the "Casino" movie soundtrack. Bryce Nakaoka teaches French horn and plays in the Las Vegas Philharmonic, at UNLV and in live music shows on the Las Vegas Strip. Stephen Kunzer (tuba) has a master's degree in tuba performance from the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. He currently is the tuba and euphonium professor at UNLV. General admission tickets are priced at $5. Call (702) 229-6211 for tickets and information.
The Reed Whipple Cultural Center is located at 821 Las Vegas Blvd. North.

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Our sympathies go out to Diane Ellis on the loss of her father, who passed away in Boston earlier this week. Diane had been scheduled to perform at the Captain's Cove Bistro, 2902 Lake East Drive, last night. Instead, she is with her family in Boston. Our thoughts are with all of them.

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Tonight, September 11^th, through September 27^th, the Las Vegas Little Theatre will present Ira Levin's Deathtrap. How far will someone go to have a hit play? With hidden motives and shocking plot twists, this two-thirds thriller and one-third devilishly clever comedy holds the record as the longest running comedy-thriller on Broadway. "It is a classic thriller, a genre with a style, a manner and an audience of its own. If you like thrillers, do see it," wrote the New York Post. "Suspend your disbelief and be delighted. Scream a little. It's good for you." Cue Magazine. Directed by Shawn Hackler, Deathtrap features Gary Lunn as Sidney Bruhl, Eleny Rose as Myra Bruhl, Justin Hopkins as Clifford Anderson, Barbara King as Helga Ten Dorp, and Ed Knutson as Porter Milgrim. Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $16 to $22. Call (702) 362-7996 for reservations. The LVLT box office hours are Mondays, from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesdays, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to noon.

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The Sharpe Family

Karen Rontowski

As someone who has called Las Vegas home for more than three decades (we wouldn't want to live anywhere else), it is always interesting to get a take on the city from visitors. This min-review came to us from the Sharpe family - Nick and Sherri, and their children, Amber and Ethan - who live in Hampshire, England. On Las Vegas In General...We always have a great time and this was no different! Even though we had heard that visitor numbers were down it wasn't apparent when we were sight seeing. Its hard to beat cruising down the Strip in a convertible on a balmy LV evening! We hadn't seen Encore before and thought that looked superb inside and we also look forward to the opening of the new City Center complex, the scale of the development is quite staggering. On Le Reve at Wynn...Absolutely stunning! We had seen this previously and greatly enjoyed it but the new updated version was truly superb. The whole production was just spectacular. Grace, athleticism, excellence and beauty everywhere. The music, the lighting and the visual spectacle were entirely captivating. Our children were entranced by the production and it is a show I would not tire of seeing. It will be my over-riding memory of the entertainment we experienced on this trip and I would recommend this show unreservedly to anyone visiting LV. Regarding the Playboy Club at the Palms ...We had seen that there was a new Playboy Club at the Palms and were keen to experience the "Playboy" atmosphere and spot some bunnies !! When we visited on the Saturday night we encountered huge queues in the lobby but were given some great advice by one of the security guys who mentioned that you could buy wristbands in the gift shop for $60 each and this would get us priority entrance to the Playboy club, the Ghost bar and the nightclubs at the Palms. This seemed to be great value compared to paying separate cover charges for each bar/club and it really did take you to the front of the line. I must admit the club was something of a disappointment as it was really just "another" nightclub admittedly with some spectacular views. There was no Playboy feel to the place, no visible Playboy branding and we couldn't find the gaming tables either. The place was packed and very lively but we were a little deflated. We wondered if the club metamorphosed into something different for the week-end clubbing crowd ? Also (a first for us) was that you had to queue to get out of the club due to the volume of people waiting for the elevators!! And lastly, Once on This Island - at Spring Mountain Ranch...We have been to productions at Spring Mountain Ranch on a few occasions but this was undoubtedly the most professional, polished performance we have seen. The show started with a slightly overlong, silent passage and it was initially hard to engage with the story. However once the dialogue started it quickly became apparent how accomplished the actors were and how well designed the stage was for this production. The show is a vibrant Caribbean tale of love and ultimately death, full of wonderful, singing, dancing and acting. The female soprano and male lead dancer were particularly impressive and the our children especially enjoyed the fact that there was a child in a key role. The ending was a little unsatisfying but that is probably more to do with the fact that we have become "programmed" for happy endings !! All in all it was a well rounded performance with a talented cast.
Thank you for sharing, Sharpe family.

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The Comedy Stop announces the upcoming line up of stellar comedians that will perform in the legendary Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel & Casino, September 14^th through 20^th. Scott Bruce's style of comedy is somewhere between emcee and high-energy stand-up comedian. Bruce is known for his infectious laugh, engaging personality and his ability to ad lib as well as delivers his special brand of personalized humor. He has opened for such acts as Three Dog Night, Warren Zevon, Todd Rundgren and Dave Mason. Originally from Pittsfield, Mass., Karen Rontowski started her comedy career in Southern California where she was a regular at both the Comedy Store and The Improv. Rontowski has opened for such show biz legends as Bob Hope, Ray Charles and The Monkees. She is a regular on the Bob and Tom nationally syndicated morning radio show, and has been seen on Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen, and Comedy Central's Live at Gotham. Most recently, Rontowski finished shooting her acting debut. She will play the lead role in the upcoming movie, Return to Sender. Dan Grueter is one of the fastest rising young stars on the comedy horizon, packing excellent stage presence with impeccable timing, making him one of the most requested comedians on the comedy circuit. Some of his television appearances include The Late Late Show, Comedy Central, and BET's Comic View. The Comedy Stop performs at 9 p.m. seven nights a week inside the the Sahara's Congo Room. Tickets are $24.95 plus tax and fees for standard seating, $29.95 plus tax and fees for Golden Circle seating, $34.95 plus tax and fees for VIP seating, and $19.95 plus tax and fees for Nevada residents with valid ID. Guests must be 21 years of age or older. For more information or reservations call (702) 737-2515.

And for more laughs, head south on the Strip to the Riviera, where Nick Lewin headlines the award-winning Riviera Comedy Club, September 14^th through the 20^th. Nick has been featured on HBO, Showtime and Comedy Central with his unique blend of stand-up comedy, variety and magic. His appearance on Wise Guys Tonight earned Nick a nomination for cable television's ACE Award. After a five-year run at the Maxim in Las Vegas, Lewin produced his own nationally syndicated radio show entitled "The Entertainment Files. The show combined celebrity interviews with movie reviews and was one of the first radio shows to be available as a downloadable Internet broadcast. Joining in on the fun is fellow funnyman Vinnie Coppola. Vinnie is a founding member of The Comedy Zone in Jacksonville, Florida, and has toured the comedy club circuit extensively, including gigs at San Francisco's Punchlines, Jesters in Atlantic City and Cocomo's in the Bahamas. He has made several appearances on Comedy Central and the Nashville Network. Gary Caouette got his start in stand-up in New England where he quickly rose through the ranks from host to feature act to headliner. He won the Comedy Connections Funniest Professional Contest and has appeared in the film "The Boonedock Saints" as well as a feature role on "Nippon TV's Astonishing News." Show times for the Riviera Comedy Club are 8:30 and 10 p.m. Tickets are $24.99 plus tax and fee. Ask about our dinner/show combinations. For more information call the Riviera Box Office at (702) 794-9433, or go to www.rivierahotel.com. All guests must be at least 18 years of age.

Nick Lewin

Mariah Carey

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Since we can't be EVERYWHERE and see EVERYTHING, it helps to have friends that will take the time to make some notes and give a report on something we missed. From singer Joni Illi comes this synopsis on Las Vegas Celebrates the Music of Michael Jackson, held in the Palm's 2,500-seat Pearl Concert Hall August 29^th, on what would have been the King of Pop's 51^st birthday. Following some videos on the sides of the concert hall, accompanied by Michael Jackson music, Erich Bergen opened the show with a very cool white curtain silhouette of MJ. The audience began to scream. Erich, a Jersey Boy, sang "The Way You Make Me Feel" very slow and then sped it up a bit. At that point, dancers and Holly Madison, (who, personally, I think is a talentless big boobed blond, who couldn't even walk in time to the music most of the time) from Peepshow, walked out and started strutting across the stage. Holly acts as though she is trying to get away from Erich in a flirty way, but not very much in time with the music. All in all, Erich did a great job of dancing as did the chorus line. They went on with the show but, after the last act, Bergen asked everyone to stay seated so they could redo the opening. The duo of Zowie Bowie were beautifully dressed. They sang "Rock With You," one of my favorites, in a big band arrangement which I didn't like at all. It was actually hard to tell what the song was. They changed the beat too much and she was flat. It was obvious, that the girl was pretty much in the dark about the arrangement. Next were cast members from Peepshow. One of the dancers, I swear, looked pregnant, and they were mediocre at best. Scantily dressed for an audience of a lot of kids. Black shorts riding up their you-know-what. The worst was the pole dancer. Did the kids in that audience ever get an education! Splits aimed at the audience, butt in the air with splits to the side, the whole ball of wax. I'm no prude but when there are children present, that's not right. The other group of dancers, in black sweats, outdanced these girls by a landslide. I felt that the entire production was not appropriate. After all, the money raised was going for education, not stripping and pole dancing. Sad thing is, I was so distracted with everything going on that I didn't even catch the song that they were doing, sorry. Ventriloquist/vocal impressionist Terry Fator was unbelievable, as you might guess. He had his Paul McCartney puppet and did his voice like Paul and then did Michael Jackson. It was spooky, almost eerie. Fator, in a perfect falsetto, sang "She's Mine" with great back up singers. His second song was "You've Got a Friend in Me," singing a line in Paul's voice then bouncing back to Michael Jackson's voice. It was truly amazing! Also performing was Human Nature, the singing group from Australia, now at the Imperial Palace. They did a MJ medley of "Give Me One More Chance," "I Want You Back" and "ABC." They were very good and really got the audience going and then the Jersey Boys came out and literally blew us away. They are amazing. Travis Cloer is fantastic!!! They sang "I'll Be There" and one more song, but I was so enamored with them, I forgot to write it down. Rick Faugno danced and sang "They Don't Care About Us." He was great. I sure look forward to seeing his show at the South Point on the 20th. Travis also sang "Farewell My Summer Love" and "Got To Be There." I was swept away, it was so beautiful. Earl Turner and Lani Misalucha sang "You Are Not Alone" and "Scream," while Turner danced just like Michael Jackson. They were both wonderful. The Sirens of TI made the Peepshow girls look like ordinary housewives. They did "Dirty Diana." (I wonder what Michael was thinking when he wrote that song?) One of the few acts all day that did not receive a standing ovation!

This was the 30th anniversary of the album, Off the Wall." Two singers from Zumanity, who were both wonderful, sang one of my favorites, "She's Out Of My Life." It was so beautiful and incredibly touching the way the girl sang. A local band sang, "Love Is A Feeling." Mosaic was fabulous, with beautiful harmonies. They sang, "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." Clint Holmes and Kelly Clinton sang "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," and Clint sang "Human Nature" alone. They were both, of course, amazing. This was fantastic...Four kids from the Spring Valley High School played a beautiful song whose name I can't think of. From The Lion King, 10-year-old, Elijah Johnson, blew us away with his incredible singing and dancing, just like Michael Jackson. He had all the moves and personality down perfect. People roared and gave him an immediate standing ovation. But again I was so enthralled with him, I forgot to write down his song, sorry. Steve Friess one of the producers, (it was produced by he and Erich Bergen), said he had absolutely no talent and he thanked the Palms and all the tireless wonderful volunteers. He announced that the money raised was over $100,000. This money will provide for students who cannot afford instruments and lessons. The crowd cheered. Steve said that we celebrate Michael Jackson's legacy. Erich Bergen came out and announced that singers from Phantom and Jersey Boys, will be singing together with, the Las Vegas Mass Choir (I think that was their name). Their pastor was their director. A young girl stepped forward and sang the lead to "Man In The Mirror." They announced the band quickly. The only name we recognized was Tish Diaz, and that was only because my husband, Tom, remembered her from Ali Spuck's show at the Liberace Museum.
Thank you, Joni. With all the note taking, we're surprised that you got to see ANY of the show!

Other things going on in The Pearl Concert Hall at the Palms...All you Mariah Carey fans, gather round and break open the piggy bank or dig your credit card out of its hiding place, cause your girl is in town. She performs in The Pearl at the Palms tonight, tomorrow and on October 9^th and 10^th. The Pearl is Las Vegas' premier concert theater, boasting seating for up to 2,500 ticket holders. The Pearl offers the utmost in intimate viewing of your favorite acts. The theater features a stage just four feet from the floor, with the farthest seating area being a mere 120 feet from the stage. Private and semi-private skyboxes are located on each side of the venue, offering private bars, lounges and restrooms. The Pearl is a marvel of modern technology using only top quality sound and video equipment throughout. Hard wired to The Studio at The Palms, The Pearl allows artists to create a cost-effective live album with efficiency and without additional venue set-up. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and show time is at 8. Ticket prices are $129, $179, and $254. Box office is open from noon to 7 p.m. daily. The Pearl is home to Miller Lite Live, sponsored by Citi; for more information on upcoming concerts, please call (702) 942-6888. For more information, please visit www.palms.com.

And speaking of the Palms, Mike Cardella Jr., whose "real" job is at the Palms, also has another life...that of an actor and comic. Mike is the son of the late comic, Pudgy!, so it isn't too surprising that he has an interest in stand up comedy. He also is very involved with improv, both as a student, and as a performer. With his partner in crime, er, comedy, Mike and Anthony Owliaie call themselves The Last Men On Earth. The duo will put on two shows at The Onyx Theatre inside The Rack in Commercial Center (the same performance space where Naked Boys Singing! get naked!), from 8 to 10 p.m. on Monday, September 14^th, and then two weeks later on Monday the 28^th. Tickets are only $7. Cough up the dollars and go have some fun with The Last Men On Earth. We might also mention that we have seen Mr. Cardella do some fine dramatic work. We think he has a bright future in show business, whichever route he decides to take.

The Last Men On Earth - Anthony Owliaie & Mike Cardella

Van Morrison

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The Pointer Sisters bring their timeless collection of pop and R&B hits to The Club at the Cannery Casino & Hotel on Saturday, September 12^th at 8 p.m. The Grammy® award winning trio will be performing several of their popular hits such as "He's So Shy," "I'm So Excited" and "Jump (For My Love)," songs that are sure to keep the crowd up and doing the "Neutron Dance." The Pointer Sisters recorded a string of popular R&B and pop tunes in the '70s and '80s that made them perennial chart toppers during that era. The singing group debuted in 1973 with their self-titled album and achieved early success with such hits as "He's So Shy," "Slow Hand" and the cover of Bruce Springsteen's "Fire." Their 1983 album, Break Out, was certified triple-platinum, making it the biggest selling album of the Pointer Sisters' career. In 1984, the Pointer Sisters released four Billboard top 10 singles in a row with "Automatic," "Jump (For My Love)," "I'm So Excited" and, from the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack, "Neutron Dance." The success of the album earned the sisters two Grammy Awards and two American Music Awards. Tickets start at $14.95 plus tax, and are available for purchase at the Cannery Casino & Hotel's front desk. Tickets may also be purchased by calling (702) 507-5757 or (866) 999-4899, or by visiting www.cannerycasinos.com.
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And because she would never forgive us if we didn't mention this...
For Susan Meinhold Sobel and the millions of other Van Morrison fans, let us remind you (as if they would forget) that the legendary singer songwriter comes into The Joint at the Hard Rock, on Friday, September 25^th. Call TicketMaster at (800) 745-3000 for prices and reservations for the concert.

Also, it's the Supreme Mary Wilson at the Silverton, tomorrow night at 8. Tickets are $27.50, all inclusive. Call (702) 914-8557.

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Tomorrow, at 2 and 7 p.m., Clark County Parks & Recreation presents Magic: A Night of Deception at the Winchester Cultural Center, 3139 S. McLeod (north of Desert Inn). Magicians Paul Draper, Tyas Frantz, Scott Hitchcock and Chuck Lane, who have performed at the Hard Rock, Venetian and Caesars, will amaze, amuse and astound audience members when they display their skills on Saturday afternoon and again Saturday evening. General admission is $10. Tickets may be purchased online at www.accessclarkcounty.com or in person at Winchester. For additional information, call (702) 455-7340.

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Tags: Sandy Hackett Jerry Lewis Jeffrey Ross Tim Dunn Donne Warwick Jimmy Emerson

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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 - September 4, 2009

Earl Turner and Lani Misalucha
(Now Just ONE Voice)

Linda Eder & Frank Wildhorn

Jeff Neiman

 

This came to us yesterday (Thursday) and was confirmed today...
Voices, featuring singers Earl Turner and Lani Misalucha, may now have to be called Voice (as in singular). Earl Turner is no longer part of the Hilton's Shimmer Cabaret show. According to the nice fellow we spoke to at the Hilton box office last night, the show is "on vacation." We always thought that a vacation was a planned, fun getaway. What is going on with the musical show in the intimate Hilton space is DEFINITELY not a "vacation." As it stands right now, the show is dark until next Friday, the 11^th, at which time, Lani will be back on the Shimmer stage...without Mr. Turner. Depending which story you choose to believe, either Mr. Turner refused to take a requested pay cut as business is a bit slow right now, or Earl, of the inflated ego, went off to do a cruise ship gig, saying something like "I don't know how long Voices will run and I need to keep my other options open." Perhaps by NEXT Friday we will have the accurate information. What we have been told is, that for the immediate future, the show will reopen on the 11^th, with Ms. Misalucha at the helm. There will have to be lots of changes in advertising. If you have a pair of sharp scissors, you may want to join the team to help cut Earl's face out of all the photos and ads, and lop that "S" off the word Voices. We suggest checking with the Hilton for Voice show times. Call (702) 732-5755.

Here is some more, kind of, last minute news. On Sunday, while at the Suncoast to see Clint Holmes' An Evening of Romance show (see paragraph below), the talented Domenick Allen happened to mention an upcoming performance at UNLV that we had heard or read nothing about. When we called the university on Monday, we learned that, yes, Frank Wildhorn & Friends was indeed scheduled for September 4^th and 5^th, as in tonight and tomorrow night! Billed as "The Theatrical Concert Event of the Season," we thought, that under the circumstances, a better name might have been, "One of Las Vegas' Best Kept Theatrical Secrets." Whatever. Here's the drill. Mr. Wildhorn and his friends - his former wife, Linda Eder; Tony-winner, Lea Salonga (who performed as part of UNLV's New York Stage & Beyond series in May); Rob Evan, who appeared at UNLV in Jekyll & Hyde: The Concert in 2005; and Broadway's Douglas Sills, were anticipated to perform two weekend shows in the Judy Bayley Theater for a Nevada Conservatory Theatre benefit. The NCT is the professional theater training program of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In addition to Wildhorn at the piano, the vocalists would be accompanied by a 32-piece orchestra. In 1999, Frank Wildhorn became the first American composer in 22 years to have three shows running simultaneously on Broadway: Jekyll & Hyde, The Scarlet Pimpernel, and The Civil War, which altogether garnered eight Tony nominations. Wildhorn is currently getting ready to debut three new musicals, Wonderland: Alice's New Musical Adventure, Bonnie & Clyde and Havana. Wait! Don't call the babysitter! Tuesday, we learned the program had been canceled. According to a Wildhorn spokesperson, the concert had to be cancelled as the producers of the event have defaulted on their obligations to Frank, the performers and all others involved after repeatedly giving assurances that they would and could fulfill their obligations." Wildhorn added, "Though we are sad about the situation, we all believe so much in this, and are all going to work to give it the life it deserves. The rehearsals were amazing!" We are sad as well, Mr. Wildhorn. We hope the program with your friends will be rescheduled.

And speaking of UNLV...On Sunday, September 13^th, from 1 to 3 p.m., the Department of Film of the University of Nevada Las Vegas will hold a second open casting call for the Film Production II and III short film productions this Fall semester, 2009. This unique opportunity will present actors of all types and experience with the chance to collaborate with the successful filmmakers of tomorrow. A "meal and reel deal" is included on all productions (on-set catering and a copy of the finished film for future auditions). To be a part of the future of cinema, simply bring a current headshot and resume, as well as your talent, to CBC A-106 (located on the UNLV campus - see virtual map: www.unlv.edu). For directions/questions, please call (702) 895-2535.

Kelly Clinton by Jerry Metellus

Kenny Kerr

BB King

Regarding Clint Holmes latest show (seen at the Suncoast last weekend), we thought An Evening of Romance was one of his best offerings (and, no, it wasn't just an evening of ballads). Accompanied by Bill Fayne on piano, Jeff Neiman on keyboards, Darryl Williams on bass and Jess Gopen on drums, with special guests, Domenick Allen on horns and vocals, Jerry Lopez on guitar and vocals, and Mrs. Holmes, Kelly Clinton, the evening was a real crowd-pleaser. Some of the shows highlights included a Neiman arrangement of Burt Bacharach's "The Look of Love," a blending of Jim Croce's "Time In a Bottle" and Cyndi Lauper's "Time After Time," and "The Summer Knows" and "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life," both written by Marilyn and Alan Bergman and Michel Legrand. (Okay, so we like romantic ballads.) And speaking of "romantic," Clint and Kelly (she in a beautiful black gown) teamed up on a medley of Gino Vannelli's "I Just Wanna Stop" and Michael Jackson's "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," causing some audible swooning from ladies in the audience. (And speaking of ladies in the audience, one, possibly over-served, female in the crowd, created a bit of commotion with her extreme, unladylike behavior. All was handled very professionally by the Suncoast showroom manager, Scott Humphries.) Clint's self-penned "1944," from his bio-musical, Just Another Man, is a really emotional song about his parents love story. It takes on a special meaning when his mother, 93-year-old Audrey, is sitting front and center in the audience. She is almost always present for her son's performances. Watching her face, as she watches her boy at work, is a real heart warmer. Clint is back at the Suncoast with Vocal Soup (Domenick Allen, Martin Nievera and Susan Anton), September 25^th through the 27^th, and in another solo gig (with a few friends), October 23^rd through 25^th.

And speaking of Kelly Clinton Homes, she has her turn in the spotlight tomorrow night at 7 p.m., when she performs her one-woman show at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin. Presented by Michael Chapman and ChapQuist Entertainment, this is the back-by-popular-demand return engagement of the multi-talented, singer-dancer-comedienne. Her one-woman show is an eclectic presentation of song, comedy, dance and characters. For tomorrow's performance, Ms. Clinton Holmes will be accompanied by Mike Clark on piano and keyboards, Jeff Neiman also on keyboards, Jozef Bobula on bass, and Jess Gopen on drums. She will be joined by Michelle Johnson, Elisa Fiorillo (who currently tours with Prince), and Bill Fayne, who will offer up some surprises. Kelly currently headlines at the exclusive Stirling Club at Turnberry Towers where she also serves as entertainment director. On Monday nights, she also stars and hosts a Celebrity Open-Mic Night at a local bistro. The New Jersey-born performer has appeared with Engelbert Humperdinck and Wayne Newton and has headlined at the Suncoast Hotel and Casino. Tickets are $18 for Sun City Summerlin residents and $23 for folks who drive miles to get there...there being at 2215 Thomas Ryan Blvd. (way west on Lake Mead from Rampart). For credit card orders, call (702) 869-2064, or at the Pinnacle Box Office, (702) 240-1301. Visit www.CHAPQUIST.com for more information.

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For longtime Las Vegas tourists and/or residents who were fans of Kenny Kerr's Boy-lesque, during the years the revue played at the Silver Slipper, Sahara, Debbie Reynold's (now the Greek Isles), Stardust and downtown Plaza, Kerr is back for a special appearance at Goodtimes, located in the front of the Liberace Plaza at 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer (enter the parking lot from Spencer). On Monday night, Kenny and, the uncanny Dionne Warwick look-alike, Tim Dunn, will head up a cast of An Evening at La Cage alumni.
Show starts at 10 p.m. See you there.

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It's about time...
The legendary blues man, BB King, who has been a Las Vegas resident for many years, will finally get the chance to establish a presence in the city where he lives. Within the next few months, BB, along with his equally well-known guitar, Lucille, will open BB King's Blues Club in the Mirage. We presume that the menu will feature Creole cuisine accompanied by lots of music. Stay tuned.

Charlie & Sherry Frye

Wynonna

And speaking of talented folks who live here but do almost all of their performing elsewhere...Look for Charlie Frye and Company to be featured on this weekend's Muscular Dystrophy Labor Day Telethon. Charlie and "company" (his bride, Sherry Frye), who also make their home in the Las Vegas area, are so busy working around the world, the comedy, juggling, magic twosome rarely have the opportunity to visit their own neighborhood (although they did appear in Paul Stone's Variety Live! at the Suncoast in November). We first became acquainted with the Fryes when they were a featured act in a show called From the Top, that played at the Sahara sometime in the 1980s. At the time, Eddie Foy III (best known as a Hollywood casting director) was employed by the Sahara and very much involved in the entertainment part of the property. For decades, Mr. Foy has served as talent coordinator for Jerry Lewis' annual fundraiser. Apparently he was as impressed with the Fryes' act as we were.

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Iconic country singer Wynonna brings her 2009 tour and a stunning glimpse into her 25-year epic musical journey to The Orleans Showroom for three nights only, September 25, 26 and 27. Audiences will witness Wynonna sing the chapters of her life as she performs an eclectic assortment of country, rock, blues and soul-bearing standards from her current album, Sing: Chapter 1. The album, Wynonna's seventh solo effort, is powered by emotional sonnets that formed the backbone of The Judds' own musical standards. Songs include the swinging big band tilt of "That's How Rhythm Was Born," one of the earliest songs Wynonna remembers singing with her mother Naomi Judd, "'Til I Get It Right," the Tammy Wynette heartbreaker, "Ain't No Sunshine," the Bill Withers classic and "I'm A Woman," popularized by Maria Muldaur. The album also includes the brand new hit "Sing," written by Rodney Crowell, which has already received praise from critics. "If you want to hear a singer's singer, one who can move you to the core of your being - Wynonna Judd's deeply moving, authentic 'Sing: Chapter 1' is a fine place to begin. This may be her finest hour," raves the All Music Guide. "All my musical chapters are here," says Wynonna, with her trademark enthusiasm. "Every genre. These are the songs that have moved me ever since I was a little girl. These are the songs I have turned to for comfort and insight at every point in my life." Called "the greatest female country singer since Patsy Cline" by Rolling Stone magazine, Wynonna has an impressive list of credentials, including more than 10 million albums sold, multiple platinum-plus/gold-plus albums, 16 Top Ten hits and a Top Female Vocalist of the Year Award from the Academy of Country Music. Having played countless sold-out tours, Wynonna's passion for rock and gutsy R&B has long been a hallmark of her charismatic live shows, as she's been a welcome guest of rock icons like U2 and The Rolling Stones. Of her unique ability to connect with fans from all walks of life, Wynonna says, "I'm blessed with the greatest fans in the world. Even when I'm recording, I try to imagine them having a bad day and my music coming on and making them stop for a second, and hopefully feel something that they otherwise may have been too busy to notice." Wynonna's rapport with fans dates back to the early-1980s launch of The Judds, featuring Wynonna and her mother Naomi, whose humble Kentucky family life reflected the everyday struggles of many Americans. Time magazine credited the duo with "single-handedly saving country music." Their kitchen table harmonies and home-spun rapport was a breath of fresh air to a stagnant country music scene at the time. The Judds won seven CMA Country Duo of the Year honors, five Grammys and have sold more than 20 million records. Tickets are now 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. The Orleans Showroom is an 827-seat venue featuring theater-style seating.

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Actor Michael Cassano e-mails to tell us that he recently saw School House Rock Live at the Stage Door Theater (formerly the Shear Madness Theater...the name is still on the marquee) in Town Square on the south Strip. He thought it was adorable and says it is definitely worth checking out, especially for anyone who was young in the '70s and will remember the songs. The production features Lysander Abadia (who played "Pepper" in Mamma Mia! at Mandalay Bay), David Andino, Jennifer King, Kara Aschwege, Lauren Linehan, Patrick Matzig, and Stephanie Killian. For a pick-me-up, with fun music and cute performances, Michael suggests seeing School House Rock Live. Their Web site is http://www.schoolhousevegas.com/

School House Rock Live

Penn & Teller with Chad Michael Murray

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Yes, that really was One Tree Hill heartthrob Chad Michael Murray at the Rio's Penn & Teller show last week. Murray told the two Las Vegas magicians that, every Christmas, he gives the entire One Tree Hill cast and crew members the DVD of the most recent season of their Showtime series, Penn & Teller: Bull Shit! No wonder the Rio stars agreed to pose for a photo with the young actor.

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Frank Marino, who gives Joan Rivers a run for her money, and his Divas Las Vegas revue debuts in the Imperial Palace showroom tonight and runs through Monday, with performances at 6 and 10 p.m. This is an all-new, well-costumed, choreographed, full-cast contemporary production. In addition to Marino as the hostess with the mostess, the other fellas portray everyone from Cher and Britney Spears, to Diana Ross, Beyoncé, Madonna, Dolly Parton and more famous ladies. Tickets are $80.50 and $91.50. Call (702) 794-3261.

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On Thursday, September 10^th, Diane Ellis, one of our favorite chick singers, will sing while guests dine and drink at the Captain's Cove, 2902 Lake East Drive at The Lakes (in the west part of Las Vegas). She will be joined by Joe Darro on piano and vocals, and Steve Golden on horns. Admission is $6 per person, or $10 per couple. There will be a specialty menu that evening. There is a one drink or one meal minimum. The music will take place inside, or if you would like to check out the awesome view of the Lake, you can sit out on the patio. For times and additional information, call (702) 307-7342.

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David Hernandez

Jay Black

Beginning tonight, David Hernandez, American Idol Season 7 finalist, joins the band ENVY as its co-lead singer, performing every Friday night at Sunset Station's Club Madrid. Hernandez, from Glendale, Arizona, quickly became one of the judges' favorites at the beginning of the competition. He flew through to the Top 12 where he was unexpectedly eliminated. Now 26 years old, David is making his claim in the Entertainment Capital of the World as a singer for ENVY. ENVY brings the hottest in contemporary hits and Hip Hop to the stage. This free show is open to the public for those 21 years and older. Doors open at 9 p.m., and the show starts at 10 p.m. Sunset Station is located at 1301 W. Sunset Rd., just west of I-95.

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Producer Bob Kephart, has once again reached out to the best stand up comedians in the country, and will be presenting three of them at the Comedy Stop in the famous Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel, during the week of Sept. 7-13. Leading the pack is Jay Black, who will be joined by Al Ducharme and Bernadette "Bernie" Pauley. Each will give out with their humorous look at life today in America. In six short years, Black has gone from a high school teacher to one of America's most accomplished young headliners. Black has headlined at more than 300 colleges, as well as at the top comedy clubs in the country. Campus Activities magazine named Jay its "Reader's Choice for 2008 College Comedian of the Year." He has appeared on numerous television shows including A&E and NBC's "Extra." Black starred in the award-winning movie, "Goodbye Baby," and wrote the screenplay for "College Sucks," to be released in 2010. When not appearing in comedy clubs, or writing for television or the movies, Black somehow finds time to turn out a column for "TV Squad" on AOL. A recent column was praised by none other than Howard Stern. Ducharme has been doing stand up comedy for more than a decade. Al offers a combination of observational humor, comical characters and celebrity impressions enhanced with organic sound effects that create a unique act that packs a powerful punch. Ducharme has appeared on "The Dating Game," "Liars Club" and "Mission: Organization" as a host, and you may have spotted him in several television commercials including for Heineken, Papa Gino's, Ford Motor Co. and GTE. His movie credits include "Next Stop Wonderland" and "Original Sin." Pauley, is the daughter of a Boston, Mass. Cab driver and Union steward—which is where a lot of her down home humor began. The comedian has been described as "blunt, honest and shocking...." by Amanda Chicoli of the Brooklyn Excelsior. She has been seen on Animal Planet's "A-List" and "Wild 100," Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn," and VH1 and MTV to name a few. Bernie is a contributor to Life & Style Weekly's "Style Slip Ups" section. Showtime for the Comedy Stop, inside the Sahara Congo Room, is 9 p.m. nightly. Tickets are priced from $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a special ticket for Nevada residents (with a valid Nevada drivers license) priced at $19.95 plus tax and fees. For further information call (702) 737-2515.

And if you like your comedy raunchy and raw, it's Andrew Dice Clay at the Riviera, where he is Putting the SIN back in the CITY, tomorrow and Sunday at 10:30 p.m. Tickets range from $49.95 to $136.36, plus taxes and fees. For all Riviera shows, please call the Box Office at (702) 794-9433, or toll free at (877) 892-7469.

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Former Las Vegan, Hersha Diane Turner, passed away in Tillamook, Oregon, on August 6^th. Although she was born in Glendale, California, Hersha liked to say she was from Burbank, as was Debbie Reynolds. A 1957 graduate of Las Vegas High School, Ms. Turner moved to Las Vegas in 1995, when her father was transferred here to manage the downtown Woolworths store. Hersha worked for Cummins Engines for many years, but her real love was show business. Before she was of legal age, she would sneak into casinos to watch Louis Prima, Keely Smith and other lounge entertainers perform. As an adult, Hersha spent many Saturday and Sunday afternoons at the Barbary Coast (now Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon) listening to the Royal Dixie Jazz Band. She was also a Sam Butera fan, watching him perform at the Tropicana. Some of Hersha's happiest moments were spent as a tap dancer in Peggy Ryan revues. In 1990, she relocated to Lodi, California, where she worked as a top advertising sales agent for the Lodi News-Sentinel for 11 years. When she retired in 2006, Hersha fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving to Oregon to live near the ocean. Hersha was a loving mother, grandmother and dear friend to many. She was a friendly, outgoing and giving person with a style all her own. Her hobbies included reading, working on crossword puzzles, and using her creativity in many ways, from craft projects to home decorating ideas with some of her "great finds" she discovered at yard sales and antique stores. But, her greatest passion was her garden. There was hardly a flower or plant she didn't know about. Her longtime friend, former Las Vegan Nancy Archer, tells us that Hersha never met a stranger. She made everyone her friend. Hersha, who was 71 at the time of her death, is survived by her daughter, Tracey K. Collier and son, Eric J. Schmidt, three granddaughters (Krystal, Lesleyann and Kayla), and one great-grandson (James), all from the Portland, Oregon, area. A celebration open house of her life will be held in Lodi, CA at Habañero Hots Restaurant, 1024 E. Victor Rd., on Friday, September 18^th, from 3 to 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the local Red Cross or Hospice organization. For more information, please e-mail her children at InmemoryofHersha@gmail.com.
The accompanying photo shows Hersha (the taller lady) and her friend, Nancy Archer, celebrating the 11^th anniversary of the Royal Dixie Jazz Band at the Barbary Coast, circa late 1980s.

Hersha Turner & Nancy Archer with Royal Dixie Jazz Band

Steve March Torme'

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Mark your calendars for this one. Steve March Tormé will perform Torme´ Sings Torme´ at the historic Boulder Theatre on Friday, November 20^th at 7 p.m., and again on Saturday the 21^st at 4 p.m. Steve will present a loving tribute to the life and music of his father, the late Mel Tormé. It's a wonderful show with a big band backing Steve. The presentation includes never before seen photos and videos of Mel and Steve singing together. There will also be a special guest appearance by his longtime friend, Desi Arnaz Jr. Arnaz and his wife Amy, who are Boulder City residents, own and operate the 380-seat theater. Most of the furniture in the lobby is from the Chatsworth, California, home that Desi's parents, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, lived in during the late 1940s. The furniture has remained in the Arnaz family and today is beautifully reupholstered and living happily in the theater's quaint lobby. Tickets to see Steve March Torme' are $35 and may be purchased by calling the theatre at (702) 293-1161 or 293 3171. The Boulder Theatre is located at 1225 Arizona Street in the city by the dam.

FYI...Steve is the stepson of the late Hal March, host of the popular TV game show, The $64,000 Question, and the nephew of Nevada Assemblywoman, Myrna Williams.

* * * * * *

Producer Paul Stone's Britain's Top Talent comes into the 810-seat Orleans Showroom, for performances on September 11^th, 12^th and 13^th. The shows support MagiCaresTM, a charity that Stone launched with Siegfried and Roy at the London Palladium last year. What makes the MagiCaresTM shows different is that they don't set out specifically to make money for charity. What they do is donate as many tickets as possible to several deserving local charities, giving the organizations the opportunity to treat supporters, caregivers and nurses to a well deserved 'night out.' Stone has been doing this at most of the charity shows that he has produced over the past 25 years. He says that the goodwill and ongoing benefit to those who attend is amazing, and says, "they are always a great audience." He goes on to say, "Obviously, these events can only be done, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors to whom we are very grateful." Britain's Top Talent brings some of the UK's hottest entertainers into The Orleans Showroom for this engagement. Performers of various backgrounds will travel "across the pond" to entertain Las Vegas audiences at The Orleans. Included on the bill are electrifying acts direct from the UK's variety circuit, including a popular '60s tribute band, an up-and-coming singer and heartthrob, a comedian full of tricks, a young yo-yo master ,and a baton-twirling performance artist and dancer. The Overtures, called "the best '60s tribute band in the world" by Sir Elton John, will perform a sampling of their extensive repertoire of more than 400 songs from that era, including hits by artists such as The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Kinks, The Who, The Byrds, The Small Faces, The Hollies, The Everly Brothers, Bob Dylan and more. Also starring in Britain's Top Talent is singer and songwriter Ben Stone, and the multi-talented Paul Zenon. Stone was named "England's new singing star" by the London Telegraph, and has performed in several of the greatest Variety Theatre's in London's West End, including the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and the world-famous London Palladium Theatre. Ben Stone made his Las Vegas debut last winter when he performed as part of Variety Live at the Suncoast Showroom. Zenon is a jack-of-all trades performer, taking on roles as a magician, comedian, voice-over artiste, game show panelist, authority on cons, scams and hoaxes, a paranormal skeptic, prankster, lounge wizard and snake-oil salesman. Called "the UK's top TV trickster" by the Daily Post, Zenon keeps audiences mesmerized with his variety of tricks and talents. Added special guests include Arron Sparks (that's how he spells his first name) and Nathalie Enterline (and that's how she spells her first name). Sparks, a "Yo Yo Pro," making his U.S. performance debut, is sure to dazzle with his fast-paced and skillful tricks. Enterline, an American-born performance artist and one of the most sought-after acts in Europe, will bring a sizzling combination of baton twirling and modern dance to the stage. Serving as host and emcee is the hilarious comic magician Jeff Hobson (the love child of Liberace and Paul Lynde). Tickets to Britain's Top Talent start at $29.95 plus tax. Showtimes are at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075 or by visiting www.orleanscasino.com. We will have more information about Britain's Top Talent next Friday.

Ben Stone

Steve Schirripa

* * * * * *

Okay, all you F.I.O.R.E. (Fun Italians Organizing Ridiculous Events) fans and friends. It has been requested that you mark your calendars for Thursday, September 10^th, when a regular (they are never "regular") non-club club lunch meeting will take place at the Italian American Club, 2330 E. Sahara, at 11:30 a.m. Please, at your earliest convenience, RSVP to Gene Vitale at BABYEUE@AOL.COM, as Nelson Sardelli needs a #$%&*# break. According to Mr. Sardelli, "Either a yes or a not will be fine, but please RSVP." This is a Boys Only get-together and, although you don't have to be Italian, it helps.

And speaking of Nelson Sardelli, we don't think he would mind us letting our millions and millions of readers know that he turns 75 on September 20^th. He joins these other Virgos, celebrating birthdays between August 24^th and September 22^nd. Among those blowing out candles are Eric Michael Gillett, Gail Lucas, David Kancsar, Bill Moore, Vera Goulet, Fielding West, Laura Blackburn, Steve Schirripa, Gary Olds, Lenadams Dorris, John Neeland, Randy Carlson, Robbie Howard, Michael Feinstein (yes, THAT Michael Feinstein), Oliver Liam Richman, Joe Pellegrino, Sharon Prier, Montel Brian Williams, Bart Williams, Michelle Rohl, Paul Hansell and Norman Kaye, who celebrates his 87^th on September 22^nd. Toasting their wedding anniversaries are Hugh and Jan Wood Lovelady (20 years), and Bruce and Debbie Zarka (39 years).

* * * * * *

Beginning tonight, international singing sensation, Matt Goss, known around the world as "The Voice," opens his full scale production show, Matt Goss Live from Las Vegas, at the Palms Casino Resort. Produced by Pussycat Dolls creator Robin Antin, London-based crooner Matt delivers a high-energy production show featuring a 7-piece band and seductive dancers known as The Dirty Virgins. Goss' show will offer a dynamic blend of musical talent from the singer who has sold more than 17 million albums worldwide. The production features a mix of his career hits, songs from his new album, and well-known songs updated with a Gossy touch. Matt reached international success as the lead singer of '80s pop group Bros, enjoying more than a decade of success with more than 17 million records sold worldwide. Bros was the first band since Elvis to knock themselves off of the No. 1 spot in Australia and held a No. 1 spot in 19 countries simultaneously. In addition to his successful music career, Goss released an autobiography in 2005 achieving Best Seller status in the coveted Sunday Times. Goss has gone on to focus on songwriting including writing the main song for the No. 1 FOX program "So You Think You Can Dance" and writing the hit song "Change Me" for Keri Hilson and Akon which appears on Hilson's current chart topping album In A Perfect World. Shows are at 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets are $25, plus fees and taxes, and are available at the Palms box office. For more information, please call (702) 942-6888.

Matt Goss

Frank Sinatra Jr.

* * * * * *

Nevada Public Radio listeners and members have a rare chance to support public radio while experiencing one of music's premier guitarists, Carlos Santana, at Supernatural Santana - A Trip Through the Hits inside The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, September 9^th at 9 p.m. Set in the intimate surroundings of The Joint, Carlos Santana and the Santana Band pull from a catalog of hits that span more than four decades. The set list reaches back to their first charting single, 1969's "Jingo," and first Top 10 hit, 1970's "Evil Ways," up through their latest hit, 2008's "Into the Night." The concert is inspired by what Carlos Santana, a "hippie at heart," calls a mix of practical spirituality, rebel-from-the-street vibe and amazing music. The 250 tickets for the September 9^th performance will benefit Nevada Public Radio, and must be purchased through them . Current Nevada Public Radio members can purchase as many tickets as they like for the special price of $100. Tickets for all others are $125 each and include a year's membership with Nevada Public Radio. Tickets must be picked up at the will-call and may not be resold. To purchase tickets, visit www.knpr.org, www.classical897.org or call (702) 258-9895 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. All proceeds benefit Nevada Public Radio. Sponsors include AEG Live, The Joint and Nevada Public Radio News 88.9 KNPR and Classical 89.7. Show dates for Supernatural Santana - A Trip Through the Hits are September 4^th through 15^th. For more information about the show, visit www.SupernaturalSantana.com. Nevada Public Radio is the state's premier non-commercial broadcaster of National Public Radio programming and includes News 88.9 KNPR FM and Classical 89.7 KCNV FM, plus a network of repeater stations including KTPH, Tonopah (91.7); KLNR, Panaca (91.7); KWPR, Lund/Ely (88.7); and KSGU, St. George (90.3). In addition, Nevada Public Radio operates a statewide radio reading service for the visually impaired. Nevada Public Radio produces the national award-winning public affairs program "KNPR's State of Nevada," 10 hours a week of original content, which is also available on demand at www.knpr.org. Nevada Public Radio, a not-for-profit organization, was incorporated in 1975 with its flagship station KNPR FM signing on the air in 1980. Since early 2008, Nevada Public Radio has provided digital (HD) programming with additional channels of Spanish language, contemporary eclectic music, and news broadcasts. Nevada Public Radio also publishes Desert Companion, a quarterly magazine.

* * * * * *

Premier vocalist and endearing storyteller Frank Sinatra Jr. pays homage - in song and in style - to his father's music in Sinatra Sings Sinatra at the Suncoast Showroom, September 5^th and 6^th. In an inherited honor, Sinatra Jr. performs the songs that his late father, Frank Sinatra, sang in his 50 years of performing, 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 Sinatra Jr. 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 such showbiz greats as 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. Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets are now available starting from $29.95, plus tax, and can be purchased by calling the Suncoast Box Office at (702) 636-7075.

* * * * * *

The public is invited to meet artist Thurman Hackett and attend the opening of a new exhibit, "Historical Journey into Jazz," at the West Las Vegas Arts Center, at 947 W. Lake Mead Blvd., tomorrow (Saturday, September 5^th). Hackett will greet visitors, and the Adelaide Robbins Trio will entertain with jazz music, when the exhibit opens at 3 p.m. in the Community Roots Gallery of the center. Thurman Hackett was born in Fresno, Calif., in 1936. While living in Los Angeles during the 1960s, he performed as a jazz musician for a hobby. An alto saxophonist, he sat in with older musicians at local jazz clubs and learned from them. He worked most of his adult life as an interior designer. Now retired, he is using his artistic skills for paintings, many of which depict jazz artists. Most of his works are filled with bright colors and bold, jagged shapes.

In addition to jazz subjects, Thurman also paints American Indians, Egyptian figures, people engaged in sports, cars, and most things to do with American culture and history. He also dabbled in abstract geometric works. Not limiting himself strictly to paints and canvas, he has used tinfoil and pieces of wood and rock in his art, as well. Hackett recently published a book, "Historical Journey Into Jazz," which talks about his early career and features illustrations of 30 of his original paintings. For more information on the artist and book, e-mail to jazzhistoricaljourney@earthlink.net. There is no admission charge for the reception or the Thurman Hackett exhibit, which will continue through December 31^st, with hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays. The center is closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays. For more information, call (702) 229-4800.

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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 - August 28, 2009

Rick Faugno

Kelly Clinton by Shawn Flint Blair

Michael Jackson

First things first. We made a mistake last Friday when we wrote that Rick Faugno's September back-by-popular-demand show date would happen on the 30^th (an error that was quickly corrected by our very patient and cooperative Web man, Frank Sener), when, in fact, it was really scheduled for September 20^th. At this time, there isn't much point in letting readers know what a wonderful show the 30-year-old Faugno put on in the South Point showroom on Sunday afternoon. And there is no reason to tell readers how much the second show tickets cost and where to buy them. Why? Because, by last Friday, before the August 23^rd Songs My Idols Sang (and Danced) one man tour de force was even seen by the public, the South Point's 404-seat showroom was once again, completely sold out. Tickets for the second show were gone in less than 48 hours. If you didn't see last weekend's performance, or don't already have your tickets for the September 20^th show, we will torture you by letting you know that you missed the solo debut of one of the two actors who portrays Frankie Valli (the other is Travis Cloer) in the Vegas production of Jersey Boys. Rick is a true Renaissance Man when it comes to the performing arts. He does it all - sings, dances and acts - and, we might add, does it all very well. Accompanied by Keith Thompson on piano (who also served as musical director), Tyler Williams on bass, Don Meoli on drums, Drew Zingg on guitar, Danny Falcone on trumpet, Kevin Stout on trombone, and Matt Taylor on sax and flute, Rick sang and danced songs associated with his idols - Frank Sinatra ("Fly Me To the Moon," "I've Got You Under My Skin," "I Feel a Song Coming On," "The Way You Look Tonight," "All I Need Is the Girl"), Fred Astaire ("I Want to Be a Dancing Man," "Cheek to Cheek," "Stepping Out With My Baby," "Putting On the Ritz," "Let's Face the Music and Dance"), Nat King Cole ("Straighten Up and Fly Right," "Embraceable You"), Tony Bennett ("I Left My Heart In San Francisco"), Sammy Davis Jr. ("Mr. Bojangles," "I Wanna Be With You" from Golden Boy), and Gene Kelly ("Our Love Is Here To Stay"). The only minor criticism we have with the presentation is, we wish Mr. Faugno had more room on the stage to display his strong dance abilities. Anyone who has seen him in his role in Jersey Boys, knows how well Rick sings. What they really don't see in the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, is how really well he dances. Based on the interest in Songs My Idols Sang (and Danced), perhaps the South Point should seriously consider booking Rick Faugno for ongoing, once a month, appearances.

* * * * * *

One of our favorites, the multi-talented Kelly Clinton, pays a return visit to the Starbright Theatre next weekend, where she will, once again, do her one "person" revue (we say one "person" instead of one woman, as, in addition to Cher and "Madonnica," there are a few men, including "Kelvis," Wayne Newton, and "Joe Joe Spaghetti Moretti," who might show up on the Starbright stage on Saturday, September 5^th, at 7 p.m. Many folks who think they know Kelly Clinton and have seen her talents, probably have no clue how many sides of this lady there are. It seems most of the time that Kelly is in the spotlight, it's to introduce other performers. In her own show, it's to introduce herself. Do yourselves a favor. If you haven't seen his lady do her thing, we suggest you do so, The Starbright is located at 2215 W. Thomas Ryan Blvd., in Summerlin. Tickets are $18 for Sun City Summerlin residents, and $23 for outsiders. To purchase by credit card, call (702) 869-2064. For general information, call (702) 240-1301.

And speaking of Ms. Clinton...One of the places where she spends many of her nighttime hours (introducing others) - that Italian joint on the South Strip - will play host to the talented Mark Giovi on Sunday night at 8:30. For newer readers (the old-timers already know this), although many very talented performers entertain at this establishment, it is not one of the places we patronize...or mention by name. If you know the establishment we aren't mentioning by name, and you don't mind what can often feel very cliquish and snobby, head south and give Mark a listen.

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Tomorrow, on what would have been Michael Jackson's 51^st birthday, there will be a number of tribute type performances going on around the city. Probably the most elaborate of them will take place at 3 p.m. inside the 2,500-seat Pearl at the Palms, when a group of Las Vegas entertainers get together to honor the late King of Pop. Headed up by Jersey Boys' Erich Bergen and journalist Steve Friess, performers from Jersey Boys, PEEPSHOW (including Holly Madison), Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular and The Lion King, as well as headliners such as Australia's Human Nature boy band and Terry Fator, will contribute their time and talent for Las Vegas Celebrates the Music of Michael Jackson. This will not be an attempt to impersonate of duplicate the songs of Jackson (although a Jackson impersonator may be one of the performers), but will put new spins on the familiar hits. Tickets start at $29. The money generated will be used for music programs in area schools. Call (702) 942-7777.

Also, tonight and tomorrow night, at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., to commemorate Jackson's birth date, Michelle Johnsons's Desert Angels Gospel Choir will join the talented cast of American Superstars at the Stratosphere in a grand finale featuring Michael Jackson's song "Heal the World." This dynamic group is comprised of professional vocalists who have with headliners that include Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Natalie Cole, Sheena Easton, Paul McCartney, and Elton John. Together, the Desert Angels members create an amazing vocal sound. The renowned choir has performed for numerous corporate clients (IBM, AT&T, Mercedes, Toyota), has been featured on national television (NBC's Last Comic Standing, HBO's Comic Relief), and wowed audiences worldwide, bringing spirit, energy and an incredible wall of sound to concerts and special events. It is the only group of its kind in Las Vegas. Choir director and founder Michelle Johnson said, "I'm thrilled to be celebrating Michael Jackson's legacy with the most talented cast on the Las Vegas Strip. It is such an honor to have been asked to be a part of this celebration, as Michael Jackson was a source of inspiration to so many of our members. His life and his work were and will continue to be a beacon to so many of us who have gone on to pursue wonderful careers in music. We can't wait to sing our hearts out for Michael."

The special edition "American Superstars" tribute shows surrounding the weekend of Michael Jackson's birthday, promise to bring even more electricity and emotion to what is sure to be a highly-charged weekend in Las Vegas and throughout the world. For American Superstars reservations, call (702) 380-7711.

And, while still on the subject of Michael Jackson, last Monday, almost two months to the day since the pop star's death, it was announced that the Los Angeles County coroner had ruled the entertainers' death a homicide. This finding makes it more likely that criminal charges will be filed against Vegas-based physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, the doctor who was with Jackson when he died on June 25^th. We have to wonder, if the Jackson's were not such a high profile family, would Michael's death have become just another case of "a doctor burying his mistake"? When Delores "Dee Dee" Martes Jackson, the former wife of Michael's older brother, Tito Jackson, died in what appeared to be an accidental drowning, that might have been the end of the tragic incident - IF it didn't involve the world-famous Jackson family.

Delores "Dee Dee" Jackson

Eric Michael Gillett

Mac King & Lucky Pearl Lee

We knew Dee Dee Jackson quite well and, ironically, much like the late actress Natalie Wood, who also died by drowning, Dee Dee did not know how to swim and was afraid of the water. On August 27^th, 1994, at the age of 39, the mother of recording artists Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson, known professionally as 3T, was found dead in the bottom of a swimming pool at the home of her companion, Donald Bohana. Bohana, told police that he and Dee Dee had been swimming, when he left for a short while to go to the store. He claimed that when he returned home, he found Dee Dee drowned in the pool. No one who knew the lady believed the story. Because the authorities were not doing anything, in August of 1995, a year after her death, the Jacksons filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Bohana. In 1997, he was arrested and charged with second degree murder in the death of Delores Jackson. In early 1998, Bohana was put on trial, found guilty and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. If not for the persistence of the Jackson family, Donald Bohana might have gotten away with murder.

* * * * * *

This weekend, the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel is hosting its one-year "Canniversary" with complimentary cake and champagne. The festivities started today (Friday, August 28^th) and will continue on Saturday and Sunday, from 2 to 6 p.m. Located along the Boulder Highway gaming corridor, the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel features a 16-story hotel tower with 307 guest rooms and suites that showcase floor to ceiling glass windows. The casino offers 65,000 square feet of gaming space with more than 2,000 slot machines, 26 table games, a 450-seat bingo hall, a live keno lounge, a first-class poker room and a top-of-the-line Race & Sports Book. For meeting planners, the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel has 20,000 square feet of ballroom and meeting space to service a variety of meeting and convention needs. In addition, the property offers an array of dining options including Carve, Casa Cocina, the brand new Cannery Row Buffet, The Deli, and Snaps 24-Hour Café. The picturesque ONE SIX Sky Lounge, on the 16th floor, offers amazing panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip in addition to a cozy atmosphere, serving cocktails, appetizers and tapas.

* * * * * *

On Tuesday and Wednesday, September 1^st and 2^nd, onetime Las Vegan, Eric Michael Gillett, will introduce his new show, Widescreen - Songs From and About the Movies, to audiences at Feinstein's at Loews Regency during performances at 8:30 p.m. "It's an evening of songs for anyone who has ever stumbled into a darkened movie house to escape the tumult of everyday life," says the MAC and Bistro Award-winning Broadway vocalist. "Widescreen uses the silver screen as a jumping off point, borrowing songs written specifically for motion pictures ("What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life" from The Happy Ending, "Theme from Valley of the Dolls", "Moon River" from Breakfast at Tiffany's) and marrying them to music from the theater ("I Can't Make This Movie" from Broadway's Nine), and contemporary pop tunes ("Widescreen", and Amanda McBroom's "Erroll Flynn"), to explore the world of the movies and the fantasies, illusions, and lies that fill our lives." Gillett continues. The show features Eric's protégés, Nina Kaneko and Kelly McDonald. Arrangements are by Don Rebic, with onstage music by Jeff Cubeta and Matt Wigton. If you are in New York, call (212) 339-4095 for reservations.

* * * * * *

Tomorrow night (Saturday, August 29^th) at 7:30, it's busy Ronnie Rose and the Joe Darro Trio at DeStefano's Italian Restaurant, 3430 E. Tropicana (on the northeast corner at Pecos) Call (702) 436-3275 for reservations. On Thursdays, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., Ronnie, with Billy T at the piano, entertain at the new Daddy Mac's restaurant, 2920 N. Green Valley Parkway, Building #6, on the easy side of the street, just north of Sunset in Henderson. Call (702) 272-0913. Rose is back at Mandalay Bay's House of Blues restaurant, September 2^nd, 4^th, 5^th, 7^th and 9^th, 9 p.m. to midnight, weekdays, and 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Labor Day weekend. Accompanying him on this gig is the All Star Blues Band, made up of Tex Richardson on keyboards, Chris Gordan on bass, James Davis on guitar, and Harvey Hughes on drums on the 2^nd, 7^th and 9^th, and Darryl Woolfolk on the 4^th and 5^th. Ronnie informs us that, starting on September 13^th, he will be performing at the HOB, every Sunday night from 9 p.m. to midnight. He will be featuring some of Las Vegas' finest female R&B singers as they deliver a mixture of Blues, Soul and Motown.

And speaking of DeStefano's...Those Red Hot Redheads - Diane Ellis, Susan Haller and Kellie Wright - perform at the place tonight, beginning at 7:30. The girls will be accompanied by the Joe Darro Trio. Reservations are suggested.

* * * * * *

Cousin Claire is always very pleased when a reader writes to give their opinion on a show that we have touted. From Las Vegas entertainer, Joni Illi, and husband Tom, comes this "review."
Thank you for your recommendation. We just enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of pure entertainment at Harrah's with "The Mac King Comedy Magic Show." I can see why he's been awarded "The Funnies Magic Act Today." He had Tom and I laughing to tears. Rarely do you see a performer walk out on stage, introduce himself and put you in the palm of his hands and not let you go until he runs by you headed for the lobby to graciously sign anything and everything and take pictures with adults as well as children. That man is Mac King. His show was truly amazing. We were in total awe from the first trick. Mac had us laughing through the entire show. My jaws ached. The kids loved him so much. He has a certain way with children, kinda like a pied piper. I think it's because they loved the fact that he had children on stage as helpers. His tent trick, that he had a little girl up on stage doing shadow puppets with, was so funny and mind boggling at the same time. And what can I say about his cloak of invisibility? You'll just have to go and see it for yourself. Since I was an assistant in my fathers' magic act growing up, I had to make a pact that I would never divulge any magic tricks. Well that's no problem with Mac King. My husband kept asking me through the show, "how did he do that"? I couldn't figure out any of them. I can assure you, the tricks are fascinating for any age. Young or old, you will be magically entertained with Mac King. Don't miss this show.

And speaking of Mac King...
On August 25^th, The Mac King Comedy Magic Show celebrated its one-millionth audience member. Lucky Pearl Lee, of New Paltz, New York, was the winner of the ultimate prize package that included a two-night stay at Harrah's Las Vegas, a complimentary dinner for two at The Range Steakhouse, a spa treatment for two at Harrah's Spa, Mac King Magic in a Minute magic kit, a T-shirt, and a meet and greet with Mac. The Mac King Comedy Magic Show plays at 1 and 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. Call (702) 369-5111 for reservations.

* * * * * *

New Barbra Streisand album

Lisa Landry

Mystery Musician

Last Sunday's (August 11^th) Parade magazine (inserted in many daily newspapers), featured a story about the often elusive Barbra Streisand. Welcome to Barbra's World is in conjunction with the release Bab's new CD, Love Is the Answer. The first track on the CD, and the only song mentioned by name, is Artie Butler and Phyllis Molinary's beautiful, Here's To Life. Mr. Butler, who used to play the piano for Suzanne Somers when she performed regularly in Las Vegas, still usually makes it here at least once a year. Artie is usually on the entertainment lineup for the annual Joe Williams Scholarship Concert. Here's To Life was a successful recording for the late jazz artist.

* * * * * *

Next Monday through Sunday, Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop, inside the Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel & Casino, features three outstanding comedians on stage. Heading the bill is Louisiana native Lisa Landry, whose sharp wit and well-crafted humor landed her a television special entitled Comedy Central Presents Lisa Landry. Ms. Landry came up through the famed New York City comedy circuit, where her early training helped her to become an audience favorite. Punchline magazine described Lisa best: "She's an incredibly skilled comedian, a controlling presence on stage and a master of pacing and delivery." Landry has appeared on a variety of television programs, including CBS's The Late Show with Craig Ferguson and MSNBC's Scarborough Country. She was also featured on the Brett Butler Presents: The Southern Belles of Comedy DVD. Brad Williams may be small in size (he born with achondroplastic dwarfism), but he stands tall in the comedy clubs of America. Williams' routines hinge a lot on his diminutive size, and his attitude and stage presence is one of the main reasons for his growing popularity. Brad was a regular on Comedy Central's television show, Mind of Mencia. Williams has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Jimmy Kimmel Live! A dare, while attending the University of Notre Dame, launched the comedy career of Michael Somerville. Somerville, who was headed to a life in advertising before he turned to comedy, has appeared on numerous television shows and hosted a number of specials, including Starz's Stand Up or Shut Up, Encore's What Guys Want, and Nick at Nite's Road Crew. Michael's dating column, Jake: A Man's Opinion, can be read monthly in Glamour magazine. Showtime for the Comedy Stop is at 9 p.m. nightly. Tickets are priced from $24.95, with a special $19.95, plus taxes and fees, ticket price for Nevada residents with a valid Nevada drivers license. For further information call (702) 737-2515.

* * * * * *

Does anyone recognize the horn playing kid in the accompanying photo? Wonder whatever happened to that boy. Readers?

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Encore Follies Dancers by Don Cadette

Anyone, age 10 and older, is invited to enjoy the Encore Follies - Broadway Our Way IV show at the Reed Whipple Cultural Center, 821 Las Vegas Blvd. North, tomorrow, August 29^th, at 2 p.m. Songs and dances from Tony Award-winning musicals will be performed. There will also be comic interludes, by 20 seasoned entertainers with professional backgrounds in musical comedy theatre. The Encore Follies are presented by former Broadway and Las Vegas professional dancers, singers and entertainers in spectacular costumes. All now 65 and older, they have shared the stage with top stars like Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, Carol Channing, Donald O'Conner and Mickey Rooney. Some of the dancers previously performed in Broadway and touring shows such as Sweet Charity, The Music Man, The Pajama Game, Hello, Dolly! and A Chorus Line. The group has been performing together for conventions, trade shows and charity events for more than five years. They recently returned from successful engagements at the Grand Ole Opry, the Wildhorse Saloon, and the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Tickets are priced at $7 for all seats. For tickets or more information, call (702) 229-6211.

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After five years away, is there still a Vegas audience for Joan Rivers, or has she worn out her welcome with her bitchy, often juvenile, behavior? Time will tell, as Rivers has dates at The Venetian, tonight and tomorrow night, and then again next weekend, September 3^rd through 5^th. Show times are at 7 p.m., with ticket prices starting at $48. Personally, we would much rather see her counterpart Frank Marino's new show, Divas Las Vegas, playing in the main showroom at the Imperial Palace, Friday through Monday over Labor Day weekend. This 75-minute energetic revue, starring one of Las Vegas' longest running headliners AS Joan Rivers, presents an all star cast of top female impersonators who recreate the likeness of today and yesterday's top stars. Joining Marino in Divas Las Vegas are, Chris Woods as Diana Ross; Sammy Gonzalez as Liza with a Z; Coco Vega as Bette Midler; America's Got Talent competitor, Derrick Barry as Britney Spears and Lady Gaga; Larry Edwards as Donna Summer and Beyonce; Kenneth Blake as Madonna and Dolly Parton; Steven Wayne as Cher and Celine Dion, and Jimmy Emerson as Wynonna. In addition to the look-alikes, Divas Las Vegas presents the Frank Marino Dancers - six males, expertly executing the MTV-style choreography of Brad Barnes and Gary Thomas. You won't believe your eyes, these gals are really guys! In a unique bit of business for a producer, Marino (in conjunction with SPI Entertainment) is welcoming suggestions from his cast and artistic directors, feeling it makes for a better show and a happier more involved crew. Throughout this all boy revue, Frank "Glamarino," in his role as Diva Las Vegas' emcee and star, puts on a fashion show to rival the catwalks of Paris and Milan as he changes costumes between every act, bringing an international whirlwind of couture to the stage. Marino credit's the insightful Don Marrandino, Harrah's president (Harrah's owns the Imperial Palace), for giving Divas the opportunity to showcase their all new production in the IP's theater. It is hoped that this will lead to a more permanent booking for Marino and company. Showtimes are at 6 and 10 p.m., on all four nights. Tickets are $69 and $79 (plus tax & fees). Call (702) 794-3261 for reservations.

Joan Rivers

Frank Marino

Liza Minnelli by Rick Day

And speaking of Liza...
Liza Minnelli (is there ANOTHER Liza?) will play the intimate 740-seat Hollywood Theatre at the MGM Grand, September 25^th through October 1^st. In this engagement, she will perform her well-known hits "Cabaret," "Some People" and her signature song, "Theme from New York, New York." Minnelli recently appeared on Broadway in Liza's at the Palace, for which she received a 2009 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event, as well as a special award from the Drama Desk Award for career achievement. She also won additional Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical for Flora the Red Menace and The Act, as well as a special Tony Award in 1974. She was also Tony-nominated for The Rink, and has starred on Broadway in Chicago and Victor/Victoria. She won the Academy Award for Cabaret and the Emmy Award for Liza With a Z. Showtimes will be at 8 p.m. nightly. Tickets range from $75.35 to $113.85, all inclusive. The Hollywood Ticket Office is open from 3 to 9 p.m. daily. To order by phone, call (800) 929-1111 or (702) 891-7777.

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Phree Bartley reports that she will have Mike Vidal as the Labor Day Weekend entertainment aboard the elegant 80-foot La Contessa yacht at Lake Las Vegas. Vidal has been an entertainer and singer for quite some time. In his younger years, he had the great opportunity to become one of Lenny Cocco's Chimes. The Chimes are best-known for their hit, "Once In a While." Next Friday night, September 4th, and Saturday night, September 5th, host Phree Bartley invites you, along with your friends and family, to bring "your fun selves" and "your dancing shoes" to join Mike Vidal at beautiful Lake Las Vegas, for two fabulous evenings aboard the La Contessa. You will be embraced by the breathtaking splendor of the lake, as the elegant La Contessa navigates the calm, blue waters with grace and majesty. La Contessa features two decks, a bar, plasma TVs, and a tastefully decorated interior. Sculpted from the colorful desert terrain of Southern Nevada, Lake Las Vegas lies nestled within the desert mountainside just 17 miles from the world renowned Las Vegas Strip. Launching from the Monte Lago Village dock, guests will board the beautiful La Contessa at 8:15 p.m. where they will be personally greeted by Vidal and friends At 8:30, as the yacht sets sail for two hours, enjoy delicious appetizers and hors d'oeuvres, prepared by world famous Chef Bernard of Bernard's Bistro by the Lake. Arriving back at the dock at 10:30 p.m., the public is welcome to join the After Party on the La Contessa, where there will be more music, singing and dancing, going until 11:30 p.m. There is no charge for the After Party. A cash bar will be available. Cost for the two hour cruise is $25 per person. Reservations are required. Call (702) 856-0078 to reserve your spot or to charge by credit card. As another option, visitors can pay cash at the door.

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Tony Arias & Lloyd Ziel

Jami Edwards as Modern Marilyn

Jason Andino

Cousin Claire wants to assure those who freaked (and she was one of them) when they saw, in the Las Vegas Review-Journal that Tony Arias had died. Fortunately, for all who know and care about the entertainer of Tony and Lloyd fame (or notoriety), we are pleased to say it was NOT the singer/comic who passed on. Needless to say (but we are saying it anyway), we were greatly relieved when the Tony we know answered the phone when we called his home. Mr. Arias has received many, many phone calls since the Tony Arias obit appeared in the newspaper. The very much alive Mr. Arias tells us that he is very comforted to know (1) how many people care about him, AND (2) that those people might have thought he was 36-year-young, the age of the other Tony Arias who did pass away in Las Vegas last week. Our sympathies go out to the family of the other Tony Arias.

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Producer Dick Feeney informs us that Jami Edwards has joined the cast of Las Vegas' Rat Pack is Back revue (there are also touring companies of the tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey and Dean). Jami portrays Modern Marilyn (as in Monroe) in the show, currently playing in the NEW Copa Room at the downtown Plaza hotel. Not only does the show recreate the Vegas of old, in a room renamed for the fun spot at the Sands where the Rat Pack performed, the downtown Plaza is one of the only Las Vegas showrooms that still offers a dinner show! Showtimes for The Rat Pack is Back are at 7:30 p.m. (dinner at 6), seven days a week. Tickets start at $49.99. Call (702) 386-2444 for reservations.

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Last night was the August edition of the Composers Showcase. As usual, the Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum was overflowing, both with music loving audience members and creative and performing artists. Among those displaying their composing skills were local songwriters Susan Haller, Kamilah Marshall, Jason Martinez, Bonnie Mizell, Richard Oberacker, Niles Rivers, Danny Roque, Shayna Steele, Keith Thompson and Tyler Williams. Song stylists and vocalists who performed included Jason Andino, Charl Brown, Travis Cloer, Bruce Ewing, Kristen Hertzenberg, Christopher Rogue, Tim Searcy, Joan Sobel and Carly Thomas Smith. Outstanding musicians, adding to the mix, were Tish Diaz, Philip Fortenberry, Joe Malone, Rebecca Ramsey, Moonlight Tran and Drew Zingg. Although you never know what you are going to hear, these monthly showcases are so impressive, as they show another side to an individual who is best known for leading one of the big theater orchestras (Ka, Jersey Boys, etc.) or performing in the same role during 10 shows a week. There is just so much hidden talent in this community.

We have to give a special mention and plug to regular showcase contributor, Jason Andino, and his Formality Band. Although you would never suspect it when you hear this young man rock and roll, Jason is the musical director for the Northstar Church (Maybe we could call him a Holy Roller?). They hold their services at Heckethorn Elementary school, 5150 Whispering Sands Dr. in the far north Valley, at 10:30 a.m. every Sunday. In addition to his performances at the church and the Composers Showcase, lead vocalist/guitar player, Jason, along with his band mates - wife, Kelli Oster Andino on keyboards and background vocals; Dawson Holliday on guitar; Fontana on drums and background vocals; and Antonio Watts on bass and background vocals - Formality will be playing the LV ROCKFEST at the Cheyenne Saloon, 3103 S. Rancho) tomorrow, Saturday, August 29^th at 10 p.m., and at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, they will be performing in the upstairs Country Saloon at downtown's Hennessey's Tavern, 425 Fremont Street, Suite 110, across from the currently closed Jillian's and Neonopolis movie theater. Check them out. It's just a Formality.

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At the Black Label Bar & Lounge, between 2 and 5:30 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday, the 29^th), the W.N.F.A. (We're Not Fooling Around) Big Band will provide an abundance of music at the club, located at 3550 S. Decatur, on the southeast corner of Spring Mountain Rd. Band co-leaders are Matt Johnson and Mario Pino, and playing tomorrow will be Tom Ehlen, Pino, Doc Little, and Lance Phelps on trumpets; Johnson, Ron Textor, Bobby Scann, and Randy Crawford on trombones; Sonny Hernandez on bass trombone; Garrett Hypes, Soeren Johnson, Rick Torcaso, Arno Marsh, Tony Osieki, and Dan Johnson on woodwinds; Steve Flora on bass; Joe Malone on drums, and Moises Sol on piano. 823-2222

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Two-time Grammy Award winner Petula Clark will perform at the Rampart's JW Marriott Grand Ballroom, this Sunday at 4 p.m. Petula first broke into the limelight during World War II as a child where she entertained troops both on the radio and in concert. Clark has appeared in more than 30 British and American films, and also in musical theater (Sunset Boulevard, Blood Brothers), but she is best known for her amazing recording career. During the 50 plus years she has been performing, Petula has sold in excess of 68 million records. Her breakout hit "Downtown" launched her American career, going straight to No. 1 on the charts and earning her a Grammy Award in 1964. Clark quickly followed with "I Know A Place." which went to No. 3 on the charts and earned her a second Grammy Award in 1965. In addition to her two No. 1 hits, Clark has had 15 Top 40 hits in the United States. Internationally, she has charted 159 top 40 hits. Tickets for Petula Clark are $40, all inclusive, and include the Rampart buffet. Tickets can be purchased at the Rampart Casino cage.

Petula Clark

Clint Holmes by Jerry Metellus

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Tomorrow afternoon at 2, dancers from the cast of Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular will present HOPE 2: An Afternoon of Classical Ballet at the Clark County Library Theater, on Flamingo Road just east of Maryland Parkway. This one day concert event will benefit Family Promise of Las Vegas, a local non-profit organization that assists Las Vegas homeless families to get off the streets and back into homes. Admission is a $20 donation per person. For reservations or more information, call 563-7507.

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Busy Jimmy Emerson reports that he is readying his latest Spokane show, Vegas Nights, for its Labor Day weekend opening at the Northern Quest Casino. The revue, playing from September 2^nd through September 12^th, features the very funny and clever juggler, Michael Holly; comedy magician, Fielding West; Rolla Bolla balancing act (kids, don't try this at home), Tino Ferreira; Michael Jackson tribute artist, Chris "Rasean" Johnson; and those two wild and crazy guys (no, not Steve Martin and Dan Aykroyd), the very much alive Tony Arias and Lloyd Ziel, serving as hosts. Gary Thomas, of Ooh La La and Monster Circus fame, is choreographing Vegas Nights, and Las Vegas showgirl-style dancers are Rebecca Shipley, Beth San Miguel, and Kelly Long. As if that isn't enough to keep Emerson who produces Vegas Nights busy, he is also the co-producer (with Michael Morse) of the musical comedy, Naked Boys Singing!, at The Onyx Theatre in Las Vegas, hosts former An Evening at La Cage cast members in a revue at Goodtimes on east Tropicana, Monday nights, and is performing as a serious Wynonna in Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas at the Imperial Palace. We say "serious," as Emerson is best known for his comedy takeoffs on characters such as Roseanne Barr, Anna Nicole Smith, Kirstie Alley and Madonna's secret sister. On occasion, and to step in for a missing "regular" (including Mr. Marino), Jimmy has been known to do his unique take on stars like Britney Spears and Cher. All of this, and Mr. Emerson is still recovering from gallbladder surgery!

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Back by popular demand, this weekend, the smooth, charismatic Clint Holmes returns to the Suncoast Showroom in An Evening of Romance with Clint Holmes, musically directed by Bill Fayne. Audiences can look forward to hearing a variety of songs with the shared theme of romance. Holmes will perform a range of old standards, treasures from "The Great American Songbook" – featuring songs that tell the story of the first 50 years of American popular music from New Orleans jazz to Broadway musicals – and selections from the likes of Sting, John Mayer, Billy Joel and Stevie Wonder. Holmes will also sing romantic originals from his own repertoire. In addition, singer and guitarist Jerry Lopez of the popular group Santa Fe and The Fat City Horns will make a guest appearance. Holmes and Lopez are expected to perform an exciting duet that embodies the evening's theme – romance. Holmes returns to the Suncoast Showroom on the heels of the wildly popular debut of Vocal Soup, in which he partnered with long-time friends Susan Anton, Domenick Allen and Martin Nievera for a showcase of solo performances, duets and group numbers. The show had a sell-out weekend in June, a testament to Holmes' singing and showmanship skills, plus the realization of the group's dream of rekindling the Las Vegas tradition of entertainers coming together in an "anything can happen" atmosphere. Holmes' fans know him as more than just a singer. He's famous for making every performance an original and captivating audiences with his 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." Known best in Las Vegas for his recent six-year run in Clint Holmes at Harrah's, during which he was named Las Vegas' "Best Singer" by readers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Holmes' fame stretches far beyond Southern Nevada. Named Atlantic City's "Entertainer of the Year" three times, Holmes 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, 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." 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 performer, even earning the honor of being the featured performer at the Democratic National Convention on the evening of Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential nomination. Showtime tonight, tomorrow and Sunday is at 8 p.m. Tickets are available starting from $29.95, plus tax, and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 636-7075 or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com.

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On Sunday (August 30^th), John Meren and Tom Gallagher's Performing Arts Center of Nevada will present the debut of The Den and Stu Show at the Clark County Flamingo Library Theater, 1401 E. Flamingo, just east of Maryland Parkway. The musical comedy revue stars California transplants, Dennis Michaels and Stewart Daylida, who met when they were part of The Young Americans. The twosome will be backed by Tony Branco on piano, Bob Sachs on bass, and Brent Barnes on drums. The three-girl vocal group, Dangerous Curves, will be special guests. (We don't want to start any rumors, but we hear that the reason the Curves are part of the Den and Stu Show is because one of the girls has a very close relationship with one of the boys.) Stu was last seen on the Las Vegas Strip in Tease at the Blue Note Jazz Club (now the Krave/Harmon Theater). He also appeared with Michael Crawford in EFX at the MGM Grand, and co-starred at the Rio, with David Cassidy and Sheena Easton in At the Copa. Dennis performed in the Columbia Artists' production of Riverboat Ragtime Revue and was part of a three-man musical comedy show that played the Princess Cruise lines. Both entertainers have worked for Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm and Tibbies Music Hall. Stu has appeared on TV in Golden Palace and BC Palace, and Den has WATCHED shows such as Golden Palace and BC Palace. Stu worked with the High School of Performing Arts Musical Theater Department in Southern California, and Den has HEARD of the High School of Performing Arts Musical Theater Department in Southern California. Stu's solo work, as well as backup vocals can be heard on a number of records, such as the cast recording for EFX with Michael Crawford, and The Young American's Christmas Album. Den WISHES he was Stu. Hey folks...we just write this stuff, we don't make it up! The show starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the library, beginning an hour before show time, or ordered by phone at (702) 658-6741.

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Beloved around the world and celebrating 50 years in entertainment, The Osmonds - Wayne, Merrill, Jay and Jimmy - will perform in concert at The Orleans Showroom, tonight through Sunday. Having thrilled millions with their signature brand of entertainment, the legendary brothers have mastered a range of musical styles, including barbershop, pop, rock, country and jazz. Known for such classic hits as "One Bad Apple," "Yo-Yo," "Down By The Lazy River" and "Love Me For A Reason," the Osmond brothers' close harmonies are unrivaled in the music world. The gentlemen have sold millions of albums over their long careers and have several gold and platinum records to their credit. Five decades ago, the young Osmond boys were flashed across national television screens on The Andy Williams Show, in what was meant to be a one-time shot at the big time. That single appearance led the family to seven seasons as regulars on the show. The Osmond brothers enjoyed professional gigs at Disneyland and with The Jerry Lewis Show before they signed with MGM Records and skyrocketed to worldwide recognition. Known for their versatility and for shaping musical styles to fit their talents - they mastered 28 musical instruments - the Osmonds gained further exposure with the 1976 advent of The Donny and Marie Show. With the Osmond brothers as executive producers, the show was a true example of their abilities to project the unified quality of their own family relationship, and in 1979 the show transformed into The Osmond Family Show. Success continued and, in 1982, the Osmonds transitioned their sound from pop to country music. Billboard magazine honored them with the "1982 Breakthrough Award" and acknowledged them as the "Number One New Singles Group of the Year." A decade later, after almost 40 years of concert tours, the Osmonds purchased a theater in Branson, Missouri, and began performing 12 shows a week at the Osmond Family Theater. They have been recognized as "Best Vocal Group" and "Best Show in Branson" numerous times over the years.
Few have had the staying power or broad musical range as the Osmonds. In 2003, the family was honored for their achievements in the entertainment industry with a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Osmonds keep the spirit of "America's favorite family of entertainment" alive by performing regularly in Branson and by touring the United States and Europe. Showtime at The Orleans is 8 p.m. Tickets start at $34.95, plus tax, and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (702) 365-7075, or visiting www.orleanscasino.com.

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The Liz Lieberman Dance Group and friends take over the theater at the Winchester Cultural Center and Gallery (3130 McLeod, just north of Desert Inn) for a show at 2 p.m., Wednesday, September 2^nd. Liz Lieberman's dancers are all over the age of 55 in human years, but, in dancer years, they believe they are 20! "After all," says Liz, " age is but a number and when you are dancing, all your troubles melt away...mainly because you are thinking about your aching back, knees, ankles, hips etc!" "Seriously," she says, "we love what we do and if we can bring joy and happiness to those who watch us, then it's an added plus." Liz has been a dancer all her life, and won a scholarship to train at the prestigious Arts Educational School in London, UK. After graduation, she performed in West End musicals, TV and film. Liz became a Principal dancer for the famous Miss Bluebell and Donn Arden, and danced all over the world before coming to Las Vegas to be a lead dancer in Jubilee!. After retiring from performing in 1992, she assisted the company manager in Jubilee! for two years, before becoming company manager for EFX at the MGM Grand Hotel. During its run at the MGM, EFX starred Michael Crawford, David Cassidy, Rick Springfield, and Broadway legend, Tommy Tune. In 2000, Liz formed her own entertainment company and has represented shows such as The Legend of Kung Fu from Beijing, China, Magic on Ice at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, and Jeb Rand's Holiday Ice Spectacular in Reno and his Fremont Street Experience holiday ice shows. Special events in Las Vegas keep Liz busy, but her favorite job is teaching and dancing with her senior dance groups. She is currently at work on a book about her old boss and mentor, the late Donn Arden, creator of Jubilee! and many other Las Vegas spectaculars. During the dance show at the Winchester on September 2^nd, Liz will be filming some of the dance sequences with her dancers. Audience members are invited to watch this process. There will be intervals during which several of the dancers and guests will speak to the audience, and Liz will also explain what each number is about. The dancers will be changing into different costumes, so there may be some stops and starts in filming, but there will always be something interesting happening! Guest speakers include Lesley Bandy, John Rothman and Sandy Runkle. Bandy will speak about her years at The Royal Ballet School in London and her exciting career as a principal dancer in Paris, Reno, Las Vegas, Australia and New Zealand. She also was principal ballerina for Nevada Festival Ballet in Reno where she performed all the great classical roles. Rothman, who hails from Johannesburg, South Africa, will speak about his prolific career as a composer, writer, director, choreographer and star of his own show, and the special honor of being chosen to write a song for Nelson Mandela's birthday shortly after his release from imprisonment. Runkle is one of Liz's dancers and very active with her volunteer work at the newly opened Brain Institute here in our city. She is going to speak about this exciting new research and treatment facility that Las Vegas is proud to have in our ever evolving community. This is a free event. Seating is on a 'first come, first serve' basis. This should be a truly varied, fun and informative afternoon. Call (702) 455-7340 or 378-6300 for additional information.

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If so, drop an e-mail and ask. Click Here
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Tags: Rick Faugno Kelly Clinton Shawn Flint Blair Michael Jackson

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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 - August 21, 2009

Barbra Streisand & Neil Diamond

King Errisson

Rick Faugno

We were given incorrect information regarding the talent lineup at Bernard's Bistro, the new French dining spot at Lake Las Vegas, so last Friday we had it wrong, wrong, wrong. We apologize profusely. Hopefully, none of you dashed out to the lake to see Patricia Watson last week, as she was the entertainment for the week before. Phree Bartley, who handles the fun stuff at Bernard's Bistro, informs us that there will be different entertainers coming in to perform on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 8 to 11 p.m. This coming week, on the 26^th and 27^th, pianist Rosita Kanes will perform at Bernard's Bistro, 15 Via Bel Canto. Known for her style and elegance, Ms. Kanes entertains audiences with her magnificent abilities on the piano. Her everything from contemporary music, to ballads, show tunes, Gershwin, Cole Porter, classical standards and international favorites. Rosita, who has played with numerous symphony orchestras, was one of the artists invited to perform at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for the tribute to Placido Domingo. Prior to coming to Las Vegas , Rosita spent most of her musical career performing as a soloist in major hotels in the San Francisco area. For dinner reservations at Bernard's Bistro, please call (702) 565-1155.

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Regarding the Neil Diamond special that aired on CBS last Friday night, we have to say that we were very pleasantly surprised at what we saw and heard during that hour. We have been Diamond fans for decades and nervously anticipated the special. After all, Neil is 68 years old, and we know how awful Wayne Newton, who is a few years younger than Mr. Diamond, sounds these days. Our worries were for naught. Neil did a fine job. In conjunction with the TV special, Diamond's new Hot August Night NYC DVD/CD, now on sale for only $12 at Wal-Mart. For those of you, especially you Diamond fans, who don't know this already, King Errisson, Neil's percussion player since 1976, is a Las Vegas resident and has been for a number of years. It was nice to see the King in his rightful place behind the Diamond.

Neil's pal, and Brooklyn's Erasmus Hall High School classmate, Barbra Streisand (known as Barbara Joan Streisand in those days), also has a new CD on approach. Love Is the Answer, containing gems such as Artie Butler's "Here's To Life," "In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning," "Gentle Rain," "If You Go Away (Ne Me Quitte Pas)," "Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most," "Make Someone Happy," "Where Do You Start?," "A Time For Love," "Here's That Rainy Day," "Love Dance," "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," "Some Other Time," and "You Must Believe In Spring," is out next month Suffice it to say, there must have been something in the water around that Brooklyn high school, as also among the students at Erasmus were a number of other musical types, including record producer Clive Davis, singer actress Lainie Kazan (Lainie Levine), songwriter Betty Comden, Broadway star Stephanie Mills, and opera singer Beverley Sills (Belle Silverman).

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On Sunday afternoon at 3, it's the much anticipated debut of Rick Faugno's one man show, Songs My Idols Sang (and Danced), in the main showroom at the South Point Hotel Casino.
You say you don't recognize the name Rick Faugno? How about the name Jersey Boys? How about the name Frankie Valli? The multi-talented Faugno is one of the two actors playing Valli in Jersey Boys at The Palazzo (Travis Cloer being the other), and was named "Best Singer" by the Las Vegas Review-Journal staff in this year's "Best of Las Vegas" poll, based on his current role in Jersey Boys. Songs My Idols Sang (and Danced), is based on the New Jersey-native's (he really is a Jersey boy) life story in show business, and shares how he got to Broadway and to the Las Vegas Strip. Rick has spent the last several months creating this show in collaboration with his long-time love, Joyce Chittick - a fellow Broadway performer/choreographer and Jersey Boys alum - and with his musical director, Keith Thompson. "This show is a tribute to the people in my life and career who've supported me in everything that I ever wanted to do - from my parents and grandmother, to my dance teachers (including Tommy Tune), to my girlfriend and soul mate, Joyce, and to the icons of song and dance who I've looked up to since I was as a kid," said Faugno. The 80-minute musical showcase will feature Faugno's performances of "Embraceable You," "Fly Me To The Moon," "Puttin' On The Ritz," "Cheek To Cheek," and "Mr. Bojangles," among others. Faugno has built an impressive list of theatre, film and television credits while performing throughout the U.S. He recently performed on the 63rd Annual Tony Awards, where he represented the Las Vegas production of Jersey Boys. Some of his theatre credits include Broadway performances in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Conversations With My Father, Wonderful Town, Fosse, The Will Rogers Follies, and the national tours of Jersey Boys, The Boy Friend, and Fosse. Television credits include the Kennedy Center's 25^th Anniversary Gala on PBS. Faugno holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Acting and Theatre from New York University. For Sunday, he will be accompanied by a seven-piece band, that Faugno calls the "baddest cats" in Las Vegas. The musical ensemble is made up of Jersey Boys and Rick's musical director, the amazing Mr. Thompson on piano; Le Reve's Tyler Williams on bass; and from the Jersey Boys orchestra, Don Meoli on drums; Drew Zingg, guitar; Danny Falcone, trumpet; Kevin Stout, trombone; and Matt Taylor, sax/flute. In Songs My Idols Sang (and Danced), the Broadway theater veteran will pay tribute to some of his favorite dancers and singers, such as Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, and Frank Sinatra, along with his life inspirations, including teachers, directors like Tommy Tune, his family, and the special lady in his life, Joyce. Oh, and by the way, if you haven't already made your reservations for this show, you are out of luck. We just learned that the actor, singer, dancer's solo debut is completely sold out. We have a feeling, that based on the response to this show, we can expect Rick will do this again. You can visit his website at http://web.mac.com/rickfaugno.

LATE BREAKING NEWS...Due to the overwhelming demand for tickets to Rick Faugno's show, on Thursday, the South Point has wisely added a second date for Songs My Idols Sang (and Danced). If you tried to buy tickets for this weekend, and were shut out, you get another chance, but only if you act quickly. Faugno's second show will be next month, on Sunday, September 20^th at 3 p.m. If you have ANY interest in seeing this, call the hotel at (702) 797-8055. Tickets are $20, $25 and $30.

And speaking of the very busy Keith Thompson (when does this guy sleep?), not only has he been busy with Jersey Boys and Faugno's show, he is also working with Michael Kessler and Melinda Jackson for their September 19^th dance show at the Charleston Heights Arts Center, another go round of God Lives In Glass, and the August edition of the Composers Showcase. The upcoming showcase takes place on Thursday night, the 27^th, beginning at 10:30 p.m. (after theater). Among those participating are composers Kamilah Marshall, Jason Martinez, Richard Oberacker, Niles Rivers, Shayna Steele, Bette Sussman, and Mr. Thompson himself. The singers will include, Jason Andino, Charl Brown, Bruce Ewing, Kristen Hertzenberg, Carly Thomas Smith, and Joan Sobel, and the musicians will include Philip Fortenberry, Rebecca Ramsey, and Moonlight Tran. All of this takes place at the Liberace Museum, 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer. Admission is $5 and for another $5, you get a tasty buffet. An open bar is provided.

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Brent Barrett

Michael Holly

It's been a few weeks since we mentioned Brent Barrett. That won't do. So...we are here to tell you that on Friday, August 28^th, at 8 p.m., Mr. Barrett and Kim Criswell will perform the ultimate tribute to Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein with Ireland's RTE Concert Orchestra (RTE standing for Radio Telefis Eireann - Ireland TV), conducted by John Wilson. The RTÉ Concert Orchestra has been cherished by Irish audiences throughout its 60-year history, whether performing with international stars such as Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, Kiri Te Kanawa and Russell Watson, or with leading Irish artists ranging from Cara O'Sullivan and Virginia Kerr to Altan and Declan O'Rourke. Hear Rodgers and Hammerstein favorites from The Sound of Music, Carousel, South Pacific, Oklahoma! and more at Dublin's National Concert Hall. Barrett, who portrayed the Phantom in the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical production currently at The Venetian in Las Vegas, joins musical theatre diva, Criswell, and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra to celebrate one of the most influential and greatest creative partnerships in music in history.

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Although Las Vegans, the a cappella group, Mosaic; the violin-playing Alizma Triplets; and teen singer/pianist, Bri Bernstein, are out of the running for the top prize on NBC's America's Got Talent (and we have no idea what happened with magician Nathan Burton, currently headlining afternoons in his own show at the Flamingo, or former Vegas Lounge Lizard, Dondino, who was shown in scenes during AGT auditions), husband and wife jugglers, Mario and Jenny Ferreira (late of the Las Vegas Hilton's Monster Circus), who make their home here, are still in the race. Mario is the brother of Tino Ferreira, the Rolla Bolla balancing man that was seen in Paul Stone's Variety Live at the Suncoast during the last weekend in July. From September 2^nd through 12^th, Tino will join the very clever juggler, Michael Holly; award-winning comedy magician, Fielding West; Christopher Johnson, Michael Jackson tribute artist; and comic hosts, Tony Arias and Lloyd Ziel, in Jimmy Emerson's Vegas Nights at Washington's Northern Quest Resort & Casino.

And speaking of AGT, what in the world were the Alizma Triplets thinking when they disregarded the America's Got Talent judges' suggestions that they concentrate on fiddling around instead of singing? Maybe if they had listened to Piers Morgan, Sharon Osbourne and David Hasselhoff, the ladies would still have a chance at the million dollar prize and a gig on the Vegas Strip. And yet more news regarding America's Got Talent. A live version of the show is going into Planet Hollywood in October, where it will share the theater with Jerry Mitchell's PEEPSHOW. America's Got Talent Live will be hosted by Jerry Springer, who was the show's host for two seasons, before Nick Cannon (who is married to Mariah Carey) took over the duties. The live show will run for at least 10 weeks. Tickets will be available through Ticketmaster.

Donny Osmond

George Clooney by Martin Kreloff

Coats for Charity

And while still on the subject of TV reality competitions, Flamingo Hotel star Donny Osmond will follow in the gliding, tangoing, cha-chaing footsteps of his sister, Marie, when he joins the new Dancing With the Stars (Marie Osmond appeared on season 5 of the show) lineup. ABC recently announced the ninth season celebrity contestants who will take to the dance floor, beginning on Monday, September 21^st. In addition to recording artist and Broadway vet, Donny, the 16 participants will include singer Kelly Osbourne, who appeared in the London production of Chicago; actresses Melissa Joan Hart and Debi Mazar, actor Ashley Hamilton (son of the ever-tan George Hamilton, who also tried his luck on the dance show a couple of seasons ago), singers Macy Gray, Mya, and Aaron Carter, models Kathy Ireland and Joanna Krupa, athletes Michael Irvin, Chuck Liddell, Natalie Coughlin, and Louie Vito, Iron Chef America's Mark Dacasos, and politician Tom DeLay. The show is hosted by Tom Bergeron and Samantha Harris. Up until last Sunday, Harris had been starring as Roxie Hart in Broadway's Chicago (where she had been working alongside Brent Barrett who, once again, portrayed Billy Flynn). Samantha is currently performing in Chicago's national tour, she is at the South Carolina Peace Center in Greenville, through August 23^rd.

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Pop artist Martin Kreloff's 65^th birthday party was a smash hit. Many friends gathered in the Kreloff-Olsen home in southeast Las Vegas to help ease the talented Mr. Kreloff into his, now, "late 60s." Seeing many of his celebrity subject paintings, up close and personal, was a real treat for the guests. One of our favorites was of the oh so handsome, George Clooney. Marty was deeply touched by the outpouring of love generated by his eclectic and interesting group of well-wishers. We must say that we were most impressed by Kreloff's "studio." He paints in a very organized, compact corner of his living room...with carpeting on the floor! We spotted not a drop of paint anywhere it didn't belong. Amazing. Simply amazing!

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Who says Las Vegas is a city without a heart? Certainly not the people who will have a nice, clean coat when winter rolls around. Community Connections, a charitable program run through American Casino & Entertainment Properties, LLC, (ACEP) conducted a coat drive throughout the month of July. Employees at all four of ACEP's properties (Stratosphere Hotel & Casino, Arizona Charlie's Decatur, Arizona Charlie's Boulder and Aquarius Casino Resort in Laughlin, Nev.) were able to collect hundreds of coats for adults and children. The children's coats were donated to each of the four properties' adopted schools - Fremont Middle School, Doris Hancock Elementary, Will Beckley Elementary and Coyote Canyon Elementary. Coats were also donated to the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth, the Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Praise Chapel and the Golden Valley Food Bank. All the donated coats were dry-cleaned free of charge by Mission Linen.
(Photo courtesy of Marc Paulus).

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The Perfect Gentlemen

Marilyn Monroe book

Peaches Rodriguez

Michael Chapman and ChapQuist Entertainment presents The Perfect Gentlemen, a combination of incredible harmonies and fun. The Perfect Gentlemen have been entertaining audiences from Los Angeles to London, and just about every place in between, since 1998.
Their unique brand of harmony and humor sets them apart from other vocal groups. While keeping the tradition of vaudeville alive, these four gentlemen have put together a carefully designed repertoire of music, unsurpassed in its ability to entertain all ages, all while educating those who witness their live performances with music covering 100 years of musical styles. Their "Salute to the 20th Century" has been twice awarded "Best Arrangement" at the Harmony Sweepstakes National A Cappella Competition. The Perfect Gentlemen are four performers of unparalleled talent. Dan Jordan (second tenor) is a gold-medal winning lead singer with The New Tradition of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Jim Campbell (bass) anchors the group with low notes he expertly crafted as the long-time bass singer of the famous Dapper Dans of Disneyland. Tim Reeder (baritone/ukulele/tenor guitar) brings to the mix a knack for uncovering hilarious musical gems, amazing period vocals, expert instrumental accompaniment, and his own composing talents, from his years with the 1930's-era vocal jazz group, Vocalworks. Phil Gold (first tenor) rounds out the group with high notes honed with quartets in the touring stage musicals City of Angels and Forever Plaid. Together, as The Perfect Gentlemen, these four entertainers complement each other in a way that is nothing short of perfect. See The Perfect Gentlemen at the Starbright Theatre, 2215 W. Thomas Ryan Blvd. in Sun City Summerlin, tomorrow at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for Sun City residents, and $18 for the rest of us. Call (702) 869-2064 to charge by credit card. For general information, call (702) 240-1301. Cash only (exact change, please) at the Starbright Box Office.

It is very possible that these four Perfect Gentlemen, like all other red-blooded men who saw her, very much preferred a blonde named Marilyn. Of course that would be the legendary Marilyn Monroe. With her hourglass curves and blonde hair, Marilyn was destined to become a Hollywood icon and the archetype for 1950s fashion. Las Vegans, Michael and Karan Feder have come out with something new related to the movie star. It's a book called Marilyn Monroe: Your Personal Fashion Consultant. The book features dazzling archival photographs and savvy fashion quips, but the fun doesn't end there. You can "Punch Out and Play" with each fabulously dressed Marilyn Monroe to create twelve paper dolls in fantastic poses. The perfect novelty gift, celebrates the reason why gentlemen prefer blondes. The Feders are also the authors of Liberace: Your Personal Fashion Consultant, Elvis: Your Personal Fashion Consultant, Joy of Liberace: Retro Recipes from America's Kitschiest Kitchen, and Star Wars: Punch Out and Play! Marilyn Monroe: Your Personal Fashion Consultant, a 32 page paperback, is published by Abrams Image. It will be available on September 1^st.

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Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop, in the Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel, continues its policy of offering the best in comedy, by booking three headliners week-after-week, thereby giving the audience three comedians for what would normally be the price of just one. Brian Scott McFadden, Chris Coccia and Peaches Rodriguez, who will be at the Comedy Stop Aug. 24-30, are a great example of the above. McFadden is one of the hottest stand up comics working today. In addition to being a classically trained actor, Brian has been a regular on the New York comedy club circuit and has recently taken his act to a whole new level, creating a huge industry buzz with his high energy performances and some of the most unique, incisive, hilarious and most talked about routines around today. A well established voice over actor with a vast range of accents and character voices in his repertoire, Brian's credits include such films as "Ice Age," starring Ray Romano, and "Robots" with Robin Williams. He is also the voice of "The #1 Sheep" in the award winning Serta Mattresses commercials. "What a Woman Wants" is McFadden's latest comedy CD. Coccia's act is a perfect combination of hilarious material and the ability to present it "in the moment," flowing seamlessly between material and improvised interaction with the audience. Coccia won the $10,000 Grand Prize in the Purina Pet Comedy Challenge, which led to his appearance in the Great American Comedy Festival in Johnny Carson's hometown of Norfolk, Nebraska, put together by the talent coordinator of the Late Show with David Letterman, Eddie Brill. Rodriguez, who was a world class break dancer in the '80s, is a Latina stand up comedienne from Connecticut who turned to comedy to express her inner feelings. Peaches' mix of twisted perspective and edgy humor has won her acclaim everywhere she appears, which gave her a spot in the annual Jack Daniels Latino Comedy Festival. She has also done three USO tours of duty, including the most recent to five Middle East countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan, Quatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman. Showtime for the Comedy Stop, at the Sahara Hotel is 9 p.m. nightly. Tickets are priced from $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a special price for Nevada residents (with a valid driver's license) of $19.95 plus tax and fees. For further information call (702) 737-2515.

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What began around a backyard pool, with canned food and good intentions, has turned into one of Las Vegas' signature fundraising events. From 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. tomorrow night (August 22^nd), more than 3,500 guests will gather with a common goal in the fight against AIDS, when the annual Black & White Party takes place. This year, AFAN (Aid for AIDS of Nevada) and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will team up to transform the Hard Rock pool into a black and white paradise for the 23rd Annual Black & White Party. The event will feature sample tastings from some of Las Vegas' premier restaurants and spirit vendors, music by renowned DJ Axis, a battle between guest DJs, flame throwers, bikini-clad dancers and a variety of water acts. There will be lots of celebrities lending their talent and support, including Charo, Terry Fator, Frank Marino, Nathan Burton, Penn and Teller, and the cast of Naked Boys Singing! We know the Naked Boys - Nolan, Ivan, Mitchell, Allen, Paul, Daryl, Mark and Aron - won't be wearing much, but we are told, whatever it is, it will be in tasteful black and white. AFAN was founded in 1984, and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. Over the years, AFAN has created various programs that offer consistent and comprehensive assistance, including direct client service programs, food programs, prevention and education programs and community outreach. Go out and support the cause. Tickets are a reasonable $35.

And for another worthy cause, on Sunday, August 23^rd, the Shag Me Salon holds its second annual Shag-a-Thon with proceeds going to benefit the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. Patrons can get a shampoo and haircut for a $20 donation. All proceeds, including stylist's tips, will be donated to American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. In addition to donating the proceeds from the Shag-a-Thon, the stylists will participate in the Vegas Relay for Life. Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society's signature activity. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park or fairground, and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24-hours in length. Teams of people from all walks of life have fun, while raising much-needed funds to fight cancer and raise awareness of cancer prevention and treatment. The Shag-a-Thon will take place between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. For this special event, it's walk-ins only; regular customers can request their favorite stylist. Shag Me Salon, located at 4110 S. Maryland Pkwy., Suite 21, on the corner of Maryland Parkway and East Flamingo, provides unique services in a fun environment where all clients can expect to be "Blown" away. For more information, please call 702.823.5446.

Naked Boys Singing!

Wes Winters

And speaking of those Naked Boys Singing!, a group of us fairly refined ladies were at The Onyx Theatre last Sunday to see the 3 p.m. matinee. We had a great time! So did the other audience members (did we say "members"?). This funny, and sometimes poignant, revue features 16 original songs, and eight hunky guys with no clothes- a winning combination if ever there was one! From the sassy opening number, "Gratuitous Nudity" to the too cute "Bliss of a Bris," audiences and critics alike have hailed Naked Boys Singing! as a sure-fire crowd-pleaser (the New York version has been playing for more than 10 years). The songs are very clever (yes, they really do sing), and the performers do such a good job, you can almost (we said "almost") forget that for most of the numbers, the fellows are naked as jay birds. But then there are about eight things to remind the attendees that they are, indeed, very naked. As one viewer stated after seeing the show, "There is a reason that men wear dance belts when they pirouette." Show times are at 10 p.m., Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and at 3 on Sundays. Tickets are $35. The Onyx (and it really is a theater) is located inside the Rack clothing store, in the northeast corner of Commercial Center (East Sahara and Maryland Parkway).

Earlier in the day last Sunday, we were at ENVY the Steakhouse at the Renaissance on Paradise Road, just south of Desert Inn. Why were we there? To see and hear Wes Winters, of course. Every Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wes provides piano music during a lovely, and delicious brunch at ENVY. You have to be damn good to get people to interrupt their dining to give a standing ovation after medleys like the one from Phantom of the Opera. Winters manages to get the audience on their feet and diverted from their Eggs Benedict, blintzes, fresh made omelets, crab and shrimp, prime rib and lots of other goodies. Oh, and let's not forget the desserts! This could be the best kept Sunday secret in Vegas. Cost is $25 per person. Go. Eat. Listen. Enjoy.

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Longtime Las Vegan, Carolyn Hamilton Proctor, is very excited about her most recent published book, Hard Amazon Rain. About this project, Carolyn says, "This book would not have been possible except for the curiosity that drew me to the Amazon and my subsequent adventures there. Charlie Strader, of Explorations, Inc., made possible my first trip, and your tax dollars (in the form of the U.S. Peace Corps) made possible the expansion of my Amazon experience." Proctor goes on to say, "I thought a romance would be the easiest kind of novel to write. Since I began the story of Dianti and Christian nine years ago, I've come to the conclusion that romance may be the most difficult genre to write. I've learned a lot in Las Vegas' Cactus Rose chapter of Romance Writers of America and in the Henderson Writers Group. The critiques I received from my fellow writers in the two groups were invaluable. Carolyn, who currently makes her home in Seattle, is a graduate of Antioch University Seattle with a B.A. in liberal arts. For the most part, Carolyn's professional experience has been in advertising, marketing and public relations, writing brochure copy, radio and television commercials, direct mail letters and news releases. She was the founding editor of Nevada Woman magazine, and has written many articles for other publications as well. Hamilton-Proctor is an experienced public speaker who has co-hosted a Las Vegas television show, taught adult continuing education classes at the UNLV, and has made presentations at conferences and conventions. In 1996, she was the recipient of the Greater Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce Community Achievement award in Communications. In 1999, as U.S. Peace Corps volunteers, Carolyn and her husband, Cork Proctor, traveled to Peru's upper Amazon, where they lived in an indigenous Amerindian village in Suriname (formerly Dutch Guyana) on the northeast corner of the Amazon basin. Ms. Proctor is the author of Elizabeth Samson, Forbidden Bride (Joshua Tree Publishing, 2004), a novel based on the true story of a wealthy, 18^th century Suriname plantation owner, and the first black woman to get legal permission to marry white. A watercolor artist, as well as a writer, Hamilton Proctor is currently working on a murder mystery and contemplating the future publication of her travel art journals. Proctor travels between homes in Las Vegas and Lake Forest Park, Washington, where she is editor and chief adventuress of www.adventuress-travel-magazine.com. Hard Amazon Rain is available (only as an e-book) at www.gibsongirlpublishing.com/. Las Vegas-based Gibson Girl Publishing Company (GGPC) is a royalty paying e-publishing company with the mission of publishing fiction and nonfiction multicultural books. Gibson Girl was established in 2006 by Rekaya Gibson.

Carolyn Hamilton Proctor

Dean Martin

Paula Abdul

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We are told that the Black Label at 3550 S. Decatur Blvd. (on the southeast corner of Spring Mountain Rd.) is the site of some pretty darn good music. One example is taking place tomorrow, from 2 to 5:30 p.m., when Coalition performs. The group (for this particular afternoon) consists of John Nasshan on drums, Jeff Davis on bass, and will feature special guest, the fabulous (or so they tell me) Moises Sol on piano. When last we wrote about Coalition, it was a few weeks ago when they backed up John Kaye during his show in the cabaret at the Liberace Museum. For that engagement, the band was made up of Nasshan and Davis, with Dana Barry on guitar and Tony Branco at the piano. There is plenty of parking at the Black Label (we are told), and Marsha K. Ross informs us that the bartenders are friendly. A $5 contribution at the door is requested to cover the band. Call (702) 823-2222.

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More than 32 years ago, when Cousin Claire was a Las Vegas newbie, we met a young lady from Erie, Pennsylvania, who was a regular visitor to our city. Charmaine was not yet 20. She had a job working in a jewelry store and still lived at home with her parents. It was no coincidence that all of Charmaine's trips to Las Vegas coincided with Dean Martin's appearances at what was then the MGM Grand Hotel and is now Bally's. All the money she earned was saved to spend on her trips to Las Vegas - her rooms at the hotel, the beautiful clothes that she wore to every show Dean performed during his engagements, tips for the maitre d's and captains who always made sure the lady was sitting in her favorite spot, where she would hand Dean his drink during the show. Then there were the gifts that she brought for Mr. Martin (rosary beads, blessed by the pope), and the things that she bought for herself (a large, expensive portrait of Dean Martin done by the MGM's then artist in residence, Cyrus Afsary). Over the years, Charmaine established relationships with Dean's backup girl group, The Golddiggers. After her mother's death, the Pennsylvanian packed up her aging father and moved to Las Vegas, "to be closer to Dean." As far as we know, Charmaine only had one real get-together with Mr. Martin during the many years she made her pilgrimages to the hotel's Celebrity Room. Martin, about the same age as Charmaine's father, was always polite to the lady, but never lead her on or encouraged anything more than an entertainer/fan relationship...other than the one time, he invited her to his Las Vegas Country Club (or maybe it was the Desert Inn Country Club) home for lunch and a ride around the course in his golf cart. The two of them were never alone. The object of this portion of today's column is to point out the difference between a fan and a fanATIC. For a well-known personality, the lines can sometimes be blurred...and dangerous. It is public knowledge that many figures, including David Letterman, Paula Abdul, Madonna, Brad Pitt, Cher, Sylvester Stallone, Kevin Costner, Steven Spielberg, Miley Cyrus, and Linda Ronstadt, have suffered from the unwanted attention of admirers, had their homes broken into, and had their lives disrupted by "obsessed" fans (fanatics). To many people, the lives of the rich and famous are a source of fascination. Often, though, those personalities resent the constant intrusion into their lives, and crave privacy...not only for themselves, but also for their families. Some of the attention may be irritating, but is mostly harmless. But, in some cases, the obsessive fan wants more. Sometimes a fan might mistake a public figure's politeness or kindness for personal interest. Some become convinced they have a real relationship with the target of their admiration. According to experts on the subject, a fan expressing love and devotion, can be just as intimidating as one who is making threats. On rare occasion, adoration turns to anger, perhaps because the fan feels rejected by the star, and the delusions of the obsessive fan can become dangerous. When does the situation change from being simply annoying to being a menace? At what point does a public figure say, "enough is enough," or "you are getting uncomfortably close," without creating hurt feelings and/or resentment? Before it gets to that point, the fan should ask themselves how they would feel being bombarded with too many gifts, too many fan letters and too much unwanted attention from a virtual stranger. Being a respectful and appreciative audience member, and purchasing merchandise such as CDs or DVDs if available, is all that is required to prove to the object of one's affection, that you are a loyal and polite fan. Anything more than that might be construed as harassment or obsessive behavior. If the shoe fits...

And speaking of Paula Abdul...
Do we feel bad about poor Paula's departure from American Idol? Not one bit. Until she became a judge on Idol, seven years ago, the former Lakers Girl had pretty much disappeared off the radar screen. Other than reading about her marriages (one of them to actor Emilio Estevez, the son of Martin Sheen), hardly a word was mentioned about our Paula for years...until Idol. What, besides sitting at a table and exhibiting rather bizarre behavior, has this lady done since 2002? We think she should have happily and gratefully accepted whatever outrageous money she was paid for doing her "job." Instead, she compared her salary to that of Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell. Hellooo. Personally, we haven't forgiven Ms. Abdul for the fact that she never acknowledged the death of Las Vegas dancer/ choreographer/costume designer, Michael Darrin. In 1990, Darrin, Abdul and Dean Barlow received a Primetime Emmy for a number they choreographed for the 17^th Annual American Music Awards. Yet, even with that major connection, Paula never saw fit to send flowers, a note, or make a call to offer her sympathy to Michael's family in any way. As grandma used to say, "Shame on her."

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Keith Thompson & Philip Fortenberry

Don Rickles

We are oh so pleased to report that the gala fundraiser, held last Wednesday at the Liberace Museum, exceeded everyone's expectations. With an anticipated crowd of about 80 guests spending $125 a person for a wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, and a concert featuring talent such as Erich Bergen, Travis Cloer, Rick Faugno, Kristofer McNeeley and Carly Thomas Smith, all of Jersey Boys; Kristen Hertzenberg and Joan Sobel of Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular; Tyler Williams from Le Reve, former Liberace protégé, Domenick Allen, Clint Holmes, Susan Anton, Martin Nievera, all Vocal Soup artists; comedienne-singer, Vicki Van Tassel; singer-actress Ali Spuck; and Christopher Joel Carter IV, a featured pianist at M Resort and showmanship winner of the 2008 Liberace Piano Competition, co-chairman Philip Fortenberry and Keith Thompson, both conductors of Jersey Boys and long-time Broadway musicians, were more than delighted when about 120 people bought tickets for the event. The money will be used to technically upgrade and maintain the Cabaret Showroom and make it a more viable performance venue for aspiring artists. "As the theatre community of Las Vegas grows, many performers find themselves longing for the nurturing artistic environment of the cabaret rooms of New York and Los Angeles, so they've begun to discover the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum as a jewel of a performance venue just moments from the Strip," said Fortenberry, an accomplished composer and concert pianist who performs his own critically-acclaimed show at the museum each week. "The Liberace Cabaret provides such a uniquely intimate and alternative venue for performers who find themselves in Las Vegas, wanting to spread their artistic wings and share their gifts and talents with the public." Jersey Boys star, Bergen, recently presented three sold out performances of his own cabaret show to benefit the Liberace Foundation, and he along with Museum staff recognized the tremendous need for professional sound and lighting. "So with Erich as a catalyst, my long-time friend and colleague Keith Thompson agreed to chair and co-produce the fundraiser-concert called Sounds, Lights and Cabaret Nights: The Show Must Go On!" With the sale of raffle tickets added to the $125 to attend the party, Wednesday night raised $15,495! Look for big changes in that space. We have a feeling the cabaret could become THE place for entertainers to show their stuff. We know that Liberace would be very proud. The museum is located at 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer in Las Vegas.

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Reminders...
George DeMott is the performance artist on both August 23^rd and 30^th, during dinner at La Scala Ristorante in the Mark I Tower on East Desert Inn Road. The cost is $50 a person for a delicious meal and equally delicious music.

Comedy pioneer Don Rickles provides the laughs in The Orleans Showroom this weekend. Now 83-years-old, Mr. Warmth has hardly slowed down since he first performed on a Las Vegas stage a half-century ago. Don dishes out insults at The Orleans through Sunday. Shows are at 8 p.m., and tickets range from $82.50 to $110. If you dare, call (702) 365-7075 for reservations.

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Tags: Barbra Streisand Neil Diamond King Errisson Rick Faugno

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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 - August 14, 2009

Liberace Museum

Dolores Fuller at 68

Ronn Lucas & Friends

If you haven't purchased your tickets for Sounds, Lights and Cabaret Nights: The Show Must Go On, taking place at the Liberace Museum on Wednesday night, what are you waiting for?
The purpose of this fundraiser is to bring the museum's Cabaret Showroom into this century, with a proper sound and light system to make it a more viable performance venue for aspiring artists. The 86-seat Cabaret Showroom is becoming THE place for performers to show off their talents. With a cozy performance space, plenty of convenient parking, no food service to interfere with the entertainment, the only thing lacking is a permanent sound and light system. The nonprofit Liberace Foundation and Museum, with a tremendous amount of support from members of the Broadway-Las Vegas theatre community, is spearheading the drive to make this happen. The event, co-chaired by pianist Philip Fortenberry (who performs in the Cabaret Showroom three afternoon a week) and Keith Thompson (the man behind the very successful, much-anticipated monthly Composers Showcase, also held in the Cabaret), both conductors at Jersey Boys and long-time Broadway musicians, will include a 6 p.m. cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception, fine wine tasting, a raffle, and concert starting at 7:30. Among the entertainers scheduled to perform are Fortenberry, Erich Bergen, Travis Cloer, Rick Faugno, Kristofer McNeeley and Carly Thomas Smith all of "Jersey Boys," Kristen Hertzenberg and Joan Sobel of "Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular," Tyler Williams from "Le Reve," former Liberace protégé Domenick Allen, Clint Holmes, Susan Anton, Martin Nievera, all "Vocal Soup" artists, comedienne Vicki Van Tassel, singer-actress Ali Spuck, and Christopher-Joel Carter IV, a featured pianist at M Resort and showmanship winner of the 2008 Liberace Piano Competition. Tax-deductible tickets are $125 per person, and may be purchased by calling the museum at (702) 798-5595, ext. 13, or by e-mailing to info@liberace.org. Residents and local businesses are encouraged to support the event through cash or in-kind donations in care of the Liberace Cabaret fund. "As the theatre community of Las Vegas grows, many performers find themselves longing for the nurturing artistic environment of the cabaret rooms of New York and Los Angeles, so they've begun to discover the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum as a jewel of a performance venue just moments from the Strip," said Fortenberry. "The Liberace Cabaret provides such a uniquely intimate and alternative venue for performers who find themselves in Las Vegas, wanting to spread their artistic wings and share their gifts and talents with the public." When we checked earlier on Friday, most of the limited seating tickets had been sold. If you don't want to miss out on this special evening, make your reservations as soon as possible. For those that don't know, the 30-year-old Liberace Museum is located at 1775 E. Tropicana at Spencer. They are now open seven days a week.

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Unfortunately, we didn't know about this event until Monday, too late to give readers a heads up BEFORE the fact. Montara Meadows, along with filmmaker Stan Armstrong, hosted a special evening honoring the multi talented Dolores Fuller at the southeast Las Vegas retirement community. Dolores began her career as an actress in the early 1950s, ultimately earning herself the title "Queen of the B Movies." She is best known for her relationship with, then boyfriend, cult film director Ed Wood. In the 1994 film, based on the quirky director's life, Wood was played by Johnny Depp, and Dolores was portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker (or as Fuller refers to her, "Sarah Jurassic Parker"), although, not to Dolores' liking. The movie followed Wood's career as director of Glen or Glenda and Plan 9 from Outer Space. It also reveals Wood as a cross dresser with a love for Dolores' angora sweater. The movie features Martin Landau as Bela Lugosi, who is befriended by Wood. Landau won an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actor for this role. After life with Wood and the big screen, Dolores eventually turned songwriter and wrote more than a dozen songs for Elvis Presley. She went on to start her own record company, and helped launch the careers of Johnny Rivers and Tanya Tucker, as well as managing many others. Dolores wrote an autobiography entitled A Fuller Life, which chronicles her incredible career and many loves. In the early ‘80s, Dolores met and then married her current husband, Philip Chamberlin. Phillip is somewhat of a celebrity in his own right. His father worked with Charles Lindbergh. During his own career, Phillip was the director of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He also started the film department at Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The evening included the showing of a German-made documentary, followed by a Q&A period with, the still beautiful at 86, Dolores Fuller. A lovely buffet was provided by Joe LaVigna of Affairs Catering. LaVigna didn't just serve up delicious treats, he served up some music as well, singing Artie Butler's Here's To Life to Ms. Fuller...a cappella.

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We are pleased to report that comic ventriloquist Ronn Lucas, who has been missing from the local entertainment scene for too long, has some multiple upcoming dates at the South Point. Lucas, along with his sidekicks, Buffalo Billy, Scorch, and Chuck, will play the main showroom at the South point on Thursdays - September 3^rd, 17^th and 24^th, and October 1^st and 8^th, at 7 p.m. Tickets are only $20 (all inclusive), and go on sale Monday. For reservations, call (702) 797-8055.

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Over the past few weeks, we have spotted some interesting folks in the audience at Naked Boys Singing! Although we won't name names (just in case the people enjoying themselves at the Onyx were supposed to be at church or the library), we CAN say that we have seen some red hats, some cowboy hats, some very large dark glasses, some odd comb-overs, tattoos (on both boys and girls), and other interesting, identifiable individuals. Everyone seemed to be having a really good time. How about you? We're going back on Sunday...just for the singing! The place to see the Naked Boys Singing!, and YES, they really are naked, is at the Onyx Theatre inside The Rack clothing store in Commercial Center. Shows are at 10 p.m., Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $30. Call (702) 732-7225. We won't tell your mother we saw you there...honest!

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Les Paul

Michelle Johnson

Lee Roy Reams

Les Paul, who invented the solid-body electric guitar that was later used by a legion of rock ‘n' roll greats, died on Thursday of complications from pneumonia. He was 94. With Mary Ford, his wife from 1949 to 1962, Paul earned 36 gold records for hits including "Vaya Con Dios" and "How High the Moon," which both hit No. 1. "Without Les Paul, we would not have rock and roll as we know it," said Terry Stewart, president of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. "His inventions created the infrastructure for the music and his playing style will ripple through generations. He was truly an architect of rock and roll." A musician since childhood, Paul experimented with guitar amplification for years before, in 1941, coming up with what he called "The Log," a four-by-four piece of wood strung with steel strings. "I went into a nightclub and played it. Of course, everybody had me labeled as a nut," said Les. He later put the wooden wings onto the body to give it a traditional guitar shape. In 1952, Gibson Guitars began production on the Les Paul guitar. Pete Townshend of the Who, Steve Howe of Yes, jazz great Al DiMeola and Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page all made the Gibson Les Paul their trademark six-string. Over the years, the Les Paul series has become one of the most widely used guitars in the music industry. In 2005, Christie's auction house sold a 1955 Gibson Les Paul for $45,600.

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Wish we had known about this earlier. We received it too late to go into last Friday's column. On Tuesday, from 8 to midnight, the talented vocalist, Michelle Johnson, backed by Peter Radd on piano, Bob Sachs on bass and Mike Mechem on drums, entertained music fans at Brendan's Irish Pub inside The Orleans Hotel and Casino. Although Brendan's does not serve food, this authentic Irish Pub features the best brews from across the sea, including favorite draft beers, Irish bottled beers, ales and Irish whiskeys. They have Guinness and other imported beers on tap. Hopefully, the powers that be will bring the group back, we will learn about it earlier, we will let readers know about it sooner, and you will get to see and hear Michelle instead of read about her after the fact.

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Broadway veterans, Larry Raben and Lee Roy Reams, who starred in The Producers at Paris Las Vegas, recently recreated their roles as Leo Bloom and Roger DeBris, respectively, in Oklahoma City where they joined Lewis J. Stadlen as Max Bialystock, and Sarah Cornell as Ulla, in an Oklahoma City production of the Mel Brooks musical romp. Bill Burns re-created Susan Stroman's original direction and choreography, and music direction was by Phil Reno. Stadlen, Raben, Reams, and Cornell all previously played their roles in the Broadway production of The Producers. The cast also included Matthew Alvin Brown (Carmen Ghia), Vince Leseney (Franz Liebkind), and Jennifer Smith (Hold-Me Touch-Me). Lee Roy didn't have much time to settle in at home as, on Wednesday, he was off on another one of those Theatre at Sea Cruises, this time on board the Crystal Symphony with fellow celebrities, author and Oscar-winning actress (for Hud in 1963), Patricia Neal; Academy Award-nominee (for 1969's They Shoot Horses, Don't They?), Susannah York; Patricia Routledge, the celebrated English actress and lovable Mrs. Bucket fromPBS's Keeping Up Appearances; Broadway singer actress, Betsy Craig; Broadway/Disney singer actor, Richard White; and former Miss America, singer actress, Susan Powell. Presented by the Theatre Guild, the destinations for the 11-day Baltic Bliss adventure is scheduled to stop in Stockholm, St. Petersburg, Helsinki, Warnemunde (Berlin), Copenhagen and Dover (London). At present, Lee Roy is serving as the resident director of the Theatre at Sea program sponsored by the Theatre Guild. The tour ends on August the 23^rd, which just happens to be Mr. Reams' birthday.

Susannah York

Cover Girl Rebecca Spencer

Neil Diamond

And speaking of some of the talented musical theater artists who have graced Las Vegas stages in shows like The Producers, Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular, Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia!, Hairspray, Spamalot, Avenue Q, Chicago the Musical, We Will Rock You, and others, Rebecca Spencer, who played Madame Giry in our Phantom, has just received quite an honor. Ms. Spencer is the cover girl of the new Maximillien de Layafette book, The Cabaret World and Who's Who From 1730 to Present. We will let readers know when the book is available for sale.

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From Jean Scigliano, Iris Gerhardt and Eydie Ruth, administrators of the Neil Diamond site, www.iaisnd.com (I Am I Said Neil Diamond), comes this friendly reminder...
Neil's TV Special is scheduled to air tonight (at 8 p.m. in Las Vegas) on CBS. There might be some areas of the country where, because of local programming, Hot August Night/NYC will be broadcast at a different time, even a different date, so be sure to check your local listings for the exact time in your area. The television special, airing in Las Vegas at 8 p.m., includes excerpts from the DVD and footage from Diamond's recent trip home to New York. "This is my first TV special in over 20 years, so I feel my heart beating a little faster. It's exciting," Diamond said. "I'm happy to still be here and doing it after all these years and I hope somebody tunes in on Friday night." Oh, we are sure a few folks will tune in, Neil. We have seen the Diamond in concert, twice. The first time, was in the mid-1970s, when he performed at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles (from where we were sitting, we needed binoculars to really see him), and the second, on July 4^th weekend in 1976, when he christened Las Vegas' brand new Theatre for the Performing Arts, at what was then the Aladdin, but today is Planet Hollywood. That time, we were sitting close enough to the stage to get some decent photos (we're Press, you know). The DVD of Hot August Night/NYC, will be available at most US Wal-Mart stores, as well as online at Amazon and Neildiamond.com. The DVD is sure to please Diamond fans. It contains a full concert, beginning to end, from the 2008 tour, as well as a segment titled "Welcome Home Neil," which shows Neil visiting his old neighborhood, even an apartment where he lived.
If you miss tonight's special, and you can't find the DVD, we suggest checking out "almost Neil," Jay White, in his show at the Riviera.

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The cast of Bite

Diane Ellis & Joe Darro

Tim Walkoe

Bite, the creative, classic rock and topless vampire show, is celebrating five years at the Stratosphere Hotel & Casino on the north end of the Strip. Launched on Friday the 13^th in August of 2004, Bite has become one of the most iconic and successful shows in Las Vegas today. At more than 1,500 performances and nearly a half-million audience members since it first began, the undeniably powerful combination of sexy and erotic topless dancers, amazing acrobatics, high-energy rock 'n roll and the darkly mysterious allure of vampires have proven to be a formula for success with both locals and tourists alike. "There are so many factors that have contributed to making Bite a success," said Tim Molyneux, producer and writer of the show. "The world has always had a fascination with vampires - they've been a part of popular culture for hundreds of years and we are once again experiencing a real resurgence in television, film and print. Some people come to see Bite simply because it's a vampire show, but ultimately they are always blown away by the production. Vampires allow us to do the things that provide the ingredients for a great Vegas show: fun music, high-energy, acrobatics in the air and on the stage, magic, martial arts, gymnastics, contortion, comedy, drama, great dancing, live singing and sexy girls. The show tells a compelling story through the lyrics of the songs and the classic vampire lore of lost love. There's a purpose behind everything happening and it all comes together in an experience the audience loves and won't find anywhere else in the world," he added. Bite centers around the Lord Vampire and his search for the perfect female specimen, which he plans to seduce and crown his Queen of the Night. Aiding the Lord is his coven of sultry and nimble dancers, the Erotic Angels of Rock. Their story is told through Classic Rock songs of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. The current cast of Bite includes, Lord Vampire, Russell Hines; Queen of the Night, Jessica Delgado; Cat Vampire, Kristin Ratatori; Tush Vampire, Koree Kurkowski; Ice Vampire, Michelle Diterlizzi; Fire Vampire, Kristel Nichols; Pain Vampire, Kim Langstaff; Shimmy Vampire, Samantha Hunt; Silk Vampire, Kelly Jo Millaudon; Flying Couple, Cees De Kok and Cathy Perquin; and Rockstar, Mark Giovachinni (better known to Las Vegans as Mark Giovi). Tickets for Bite are $49.45. The show starts at 10:30 p.m. Fridays through Wednesdays (dark on Thursdays). For tickets or more information, call (702) 380-7711 or (800) 99-TOWER. The Stratosphere is located at 2000 Las Vegas Boulevard South.

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Tonight, it's chanteuse Diane Ellis singing with the Joe Darro Trio at DeStefano's Restaurant on the northeast corner of Tropicana and Pecos in the Big Lots shopping center. You can hear Diane and Joe doing great jazz vocals and standards, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Check out the dinner menu.

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The Comedy Stop, newly relocated in the Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel & Casino, has booked three top headliners for the week of August 17^th through the 23^rd. Producer Bob Kephart has signed stand-up comics, Tim Walkoe, Manny Oliveira and Glen Jensen to deliver a one-two-three punch for the week. Walkoe is a veteran headliner, having appeared at more than 100 comedy clubs across the country. He has also been featured at the Chicago Comedy Festival for the past four years. Tim is a $10,000 grand prize winner on ABC TVs America's Funniest People, and has appeared in a recurring role on Fox TV's Murder in Small Town X, as Mayor Emerson Bowden. "Nonstop laughter from start to finish," is what the Chicago Tribune had to say about Walkoe's comedy performance. Oliveira has been performing professionally for more than 30 years, beginning his career as an actor in Boston. He moved from acting into the world of stand-up comedy, where he has received critical acclaim. He has appeared on HBO and other prestigious television comedy shows. Oliveira can also be seen as Father Cisero in an upcoming film, Crossroads, and most recently on Lifetime's Network hit, Army Wives. Oklahoma born Jensen, is not only a stand-up comedian, but has appeared in more than six major movies and, most recently, on the television series, Forensic Files. In the 2006 psychological thriller, Fingerprints, Glen played one of the pivotal roles. As a comic, he delivers a hilarious mixture of down home views, wrapped in a cynical urban coating. Glen won "Philly's Funniest Comedy Competition" and has also been an opening act for, The Doobie Brothers, Al Jarreau and Spyro Gyra. Showtime for the Comedy Stop is 9 p.m. seven nights a week. Tickets start at $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a $19.95 ticket for locals (must have a valid Nevada drivers license) plus tax and fees. For reservations call (702) 737-2515 or purchase tickets at www.saharavegas.com.

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Martin Kreloff

Lucille Ball by Martin Kreloff

Morning Glories by Bill Nolte

New York-born pop artist, Martin Kreloff, a relatively new Las Vegas transplant (he has been here for five years, following a 14-year stint in Southern California), obviously loves Lucy. His latest creation is a portrait of the iconic redhead, solo. An earlier rendering shows both Lucille Ball and her Cuban bandleader husband, Desi Arnaz. Lucy joins a Who's Who of famous faces that have been interpreted by the skilled and talented Marty Kreloff. In addition to Mr. and Mrs. Arnaz, among the many, many subjects who have found their way to a Kreloff canvas are (in mostly alphabetical order) Fred Astaire, Lauren Bacall, Mr. Blackwell, Bogart and Bergman (as in Humphrey and Ingrid), George Clooney, Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, James Dean, Marlene Dietrich, Errol Flynn, Judy (Garland) and Liza (Minnelli), Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, Don Johnson, Grace Kelly, Don Knotts, Veronica Lake, Janet Leigh, Ethel Merman, Marilyn Monroe, Rosalind Russell, Barbara Stanwyk, Gloria Swanson, Elizabeth Taylor, Shirley Temple, Lana Turner, John Wayne, Mae West, and Esther Williams. If you would like to be impressed, Google "Martin Kreloff" for a look at some of the labors of his life and love. Happy birthday to Mr. Kreloff, who celebrates number 65 this week.

And on the subject of artists, many performing artists are also talented visual artists as well, using their time between engagements or between takes to create works on canvas, paper, or three-dimensional objects. Some of Hollywood's finest, were also amazingly talented painters - Henry Fonda, Claire Trevor and Peter Falk come immediately to mind. Our friend, Bill Nolte, who portrayed Franz Liebkind in the Las Vegas production of The Producers, and more recently played the butcher, Lazar Wolf, in the touring company of Fiddler on the Roof, is one the Broadway-types who is also adept with a paint brush. He has spent much of the last couple of months relaxing in upstate New York, where he has had some time to get back to gardening and creating works on paper.

Terry Ritter's Lonely Paris Evening

Michael Cassano

And speaking of artists, Terry Ritter, who does Las Vegas-themed entertainment artwork (mostly lovely showgirls), reports that she just returned from Encinitas, California, where her 'Ode to Erte" originals are hanging in The Art & Frame Shop in Solana Beach. Terry also has some of her paintings on display in the new Bernard's Bistro at Lake Las Vegas. The French eatery is located at 15 Via Bel Canto, overlooking the lake and creating a very nice ambience. Currently providing entertainment at the Bistro is Patricia Watson, who plays and sings on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 8 to 11 p.m. (and late hours , from 10 to midnight, on Fridays and Saturdays). Terry, who is still working on the airport mural project, tells us that "the fabulous French food is reasonably priced, and so is the artwork!"

And speaking of ladies named Terry, another Terry, vocalist Terry James, opens at the Alexis Park Hotel on Sunday, the 23^rd of August, with 7 and 9 p.m. shows. Alexis Park, a non-gaming property located on Harmon east of the Strip, is offering pre-show dinner specials beginning at 5 p.m. James reports that she will be singing tunes from the Great American Songbook, as well as a few 'newer' selections. She will also include a tribute to the late Mike Beisner, a former member of the Four Freshmen singing group. Mike died in July of last year at the age of 53.

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Frederick Knott's thriller, Wait Until Dark, opens tonight at the Backstage Theatre on the College of Southern Nevada's Cheyenne Campus, located at 3200 East Cheyenne, in North Las Vegas. Wait Until Dark tells the tale of Susy Hendricks, a blind Greenwich Village housewife, who becomes the target of three thugs searching for a doll filled with heroin. It seems that Susy‘s husband transported the doll from Canada as a favor to a woman who has since been murdered. The trio tries to convince Susy that her spouse has been implicated in the crime and the only way to protect him is to surrender the doll. Bravo TV named a scene from 1967's Wait Until Dark, as No. 10 on a list of the 100 Scariest Movie Moments of All Time (leave the kids at home for this one). The film's star, Audrey Hepburn, was nominated for a Best Actress in a Leading Role Academy Award (she lost to another Hepburn, Katharine Hepburn, who won the Oscar that year for her role in Guess Who's Coming To Dinner). Also appearing in the movie version of Wait Until Dark were Alan Arkin, Richard Crenna, Efrem Zimbalist Jr. and Jack Weston. The CSN production is directed by Russ Benton and Chris Mayse, and features Mary Foresta as Susy Hendricks, Michael Cassano (last seen in A Touch of Shakespeare at the Springs Preserve in May) as Roat, William Klundt as Mike Talman, Robert Gillmer as Carlino, Mark Brunton (named by the Las Vegas Review-Journal's theater critic, Anthony Del Valle, as last year's Outstanding Actor for his role in the Las Vegas Little Theatre's Rabbit Hole) as Sam Hendricks, and Maureen Winter as Gloria. Showtimes are tonight, August 14^th, tomorrow, August 21^st and 22^nd, at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays, August 16^th and 23^rd, at 2 p.m. Ticket prices are $12 for general admission, and $10 for students and seniors. To get to the theater: From the I-15, exit Cheyenne Rd. EAST. Drive to Campus Rd. and turn north onto the CSN campus. Follow the road to the back of the school until you see The Horn Theater and park in that lot. Enter through the main doors of the school (not the theater entrance) and turn left. The Backstage theater will be on your left. For additional information, call the Performing Arts Center at (702) 651-LIVE (5483).

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As we mentioned a few weeks ago, Gina Eckstine and her band - Ric Mandell on piano, Jack Daro on bass, Ric Craig on drums, Jimmy Mahlis on guitar, Dan Weinstein who alternates on trombone and violin, and Mike Nelson on saxophone - will be partying at the legendary Catalina Bar and Grill, 6725 Sunset Blvd., in Hollywood, on Sunday (August 16^th) to celebrate the release of Gina's new CD. Entitled Everything I Have Is Yours, this is a loving tribute to the music of Gina's father, the late, great jazz legend Billy Eckstine. The CD contains Eckstine favorites, including "I Was a Little Too Lonely," "Prisoner of Love," "Everything I Have Is Yours," "I'm Beginning to See the Light," "A Cottage for Sale," "Misty," "I Apologize," "I Could Write a Book," "Shake Down the Stars," "Don't Let It Go to Your Head," "I Want to Talk About You," "Nice Work If You Can Get It," and "My Foolish Heart." Gina's career began at the age of seven, when she was invited on stage with her father during his nightclub act. She says, "From then I was hooked. I knew what I wanted to do...SING!" With family friends like the Four Tops, Quincy Jones, Sammy Davis Jr., and Sarah Vaughan, Gina's household was a constant source of inspiration and guidance. At age 13, she began extensive vocal training and music study. After witnessing his daughter's graduation performance, Billy Eckstine decided that she was ready for his "College Of The Road." Gina joined her father in his show and traveled the world, sharing the stage with the likes of Count Basie, Sammy Davis Jr., and Bill Cosby, and performing on The Tonight Show. After three years with The Billy Eckstine Show, Gina moved to California and started her own nightclub act, working exclusively for the La Costa Resort Hotel. Her show was a success and a Las Vegas connection was made. For nine years, Gina performed in major hotels and casinos in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe. She currently resides in Los Angeles, but performs as an opening act for major performers in Las Vegas, most recently for Brad Garrett, at The Mirage. On Sunday, Gina and her band will perform a 75-minute show at the Catalina. There will be great music, food and drinks, and lots of fun. Tickets are $20. Call (323) 466-2210.

Gina Eckstine CD

George DeMott

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Described as a mix of classic masculinity and charm, George DeMott captures the essence of the great singers of days gone by with his unique contemporary style, singing opera to pop and everything in between. Classically trained, George holds degrees from UC Santa Barbara and the prestigious Eastman School of Music. In the opera world, he has performed several classic tenor roles, and has also been a featured guest entertainer aboard several cruise ships, namely Crystal Cruises, bringing his love of Pop-Opera to audiences all over the world. Born and raised in Rochester, New York, George currently lives in Las Vegas. He has produced two CDs, Serenade and Two For My Baby. On two consecutive Sundays, August 23^rd and 30^th, Mr. DeMott will be the guest performer for the two final programs of La Scala's summer dinner show series, To Italy With Love. Presented by Bavaro ETC, the evenings will feature a 7 p.m. showgirls Meet and Greet (with a complimentary glass of wine), a special for-the-occasion-dinner, prepared by Chef Roberto Perotti, and served from 7:30 to 8:30, and from 8:30 to 9:30, performances by Mr. DeMott. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The price is $50 per person, all inclusive. The dinner on the 23^rd includes Caesar Salad, Veal Stuffed Ravioli with Wild Mushroom Sauce, combination Lemon Sole with Lemon Caper Sauce and Chicken Breast Francese, and Italian Cheesecake. La Scala is located at 1020 E. Desert Inn, in the Mark I Tower. Call (702) 699-9980 for reservations, or (702) 367-9805 for additional information.

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Tomorrow (Saturday, August 15^th), at 2 p.m., adults are invited to enjoy an afternoon of characters and comedy with singer and impressionist Charles Washington who will perform at the Reed Whipple Cultural Center, 821 Las Vegas Blvd. North. Washington will keep audience members entertained with impressions of Sammy Davis Jr., Bill Cosby, Nat King Cole, Louie Armstrong, Jimmy Durante, Johnny Mathis, Sam Cooke, John Wayne and many others. Charles was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he started singing at age five. By the time he was 15, Washington was performing in local clubs. Mentored by well-known blues singer, Little Willie John, the young entertainer became popular under the stage name Charlie Wash. In 1960, Washington became the featured singer and bongo player with the Gap Band. In the late ‘70s, he was hired as a lead singer by Vernon Martin, who formed his own band after leaving Jimi Hendrix. This gig lasted for two years, after which Washington married and had five children, putting his singing career on hold while raising his family. Since that time, Washington moved to Los Angeles and performed in clubs, such as the Rose Room and Vina's Jazz Club. Eventually he landed in Las Vegas, where he performed as Sammy Davis Jr. at Double Take. Tickets are priced at $5 for all seats. For information, call (702) 229-6211.

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The Mac King Comedy Magic Show will celebrate its one-millionth guest this summer with the ultimate prize package giveaway in partnership with Harrah's Las Vegas. All, 21 and older, who purchase a ticket and attend a performance of the show, between now and August 29^th, will have the chance to win the prize package. Recently dubbed "Favorite Male Las Vegan," and voted "Best Bargain Show" six years in a row in the Las Vegas Review-Journal 2009 "Best of Las Vegas" poll, Mac King has performed his family-friendly routine at Harrah's Las Vegas since January 2000. The One-Millionth Audience Member prize package will include a two-night stay at Harrah's Las Vegas, a complimentary dinner for two at The Range Steakhouse, a spa treatment for two at Harrah's Spa, Mac King Magic in a Minute magic kit, a t-shirt and a meet and greet with the star. "One million audience members is a huge feat," said Don Marradino, President of Harrah's Las Vegas. "In a town that changes as quickly as Las Vegas, Mac's longevity and success is a real testament to the kind of performer he is. He packs our showroom daily with guests who will later leave knowing they saw a great show at a great price." The prize package must be redeemed before December 29^th, and all winnings are non-transferable and based on availability. The winner must redeem all portions of the package at one time. Mac King has been recognized with numerous accolades including "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.

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One of our favorites, the multi-talented Mark Nadler, recently performed at the Rrazz Room in San Francisco's Nikko Hotel, where his latest show was a smashing success. Here are a couple of the San Francisco reviews:
"Last evening, singer and pianist Mark Nadler opened his spectacular show, His Lovely Wife, Ira, at the Rrazz Room in the Hotel Nikko. The San Francisco Bay Area Theater Critics Circle recently bestowed to him (Nadler), the Best Solo Performance award, and rightly so. His Lovely Wife, Ira, refers to a possible belief that George and Ira Gershwin were husband and wife and not brothers! I have never seen a better performer place the audience in the palm of his hand and take complete control. And while he performs, he maintains constant audience eye contact and rules the roost. His show? Wonderful - and it's all built around the lyrics of Ira Gershwin and the many composers - including his brother, George - that he collaborated with to create some fabulous, famous and clever lyrics. Mark Nadler is a brilliant pianist and has a dynamic voice - and always in control - his audience completely mesmerized. You'll never see another performer like Mark Nadler who earned a well-rewarded standing ovation by the opening night packed house. His engagement is a short one, and so I urge you to head for the Rrazz Room and be swept away by this remarkable show, His Lovely Wife, Ira. I urge you not to miss it." --Jerry Friedman, KGO Newstalk Entertainment
"SIZZLING! That's the only think that you can say about Mark Nadler's exciting evening that brings new insights into the life of Ira Gershwin. He dazzles the eyes and engages our brain with his musical prowess, as Nadler performs vocal miracles that really resonate with feeling on George and Ira Gershwin's wonderful music and haunting lyrics. What a master Ira Gershwin was with lyrics, and Nadler's every gesture and glance are a delight as he takes us down memory lane of this fantastic musical mini-musical biography. The entire evening is smart and at times, laugh-out-loud hilarious. I especially liked the story about "Midnight Madness" which went through many incarnations with different lyrics and name changes, until Ira Gershwin was happy. The musical treats (12 or more) included "Someone to Watch Over Me, "Love Is Sweeping The Country", "It's a New World", and the ‘Star is Born' hit (music by Harold Arlen, Lyrics by Ira Gershwin) - "The Man That Got Away". You know what? - It sounds better sung by a man. There are so many great and bright things about this show that it would take millions of words to describe them all. But take my word for it. This is an engaging, first-rate enticing evening at the Rrazz Room. Rating: Four Glasses of Champagne (highest rating)" --Lee Hartgrave, KQUED-FM
On Wednesday, August 19^th, Nadler takes the show, ...His Lovely Wife, Ira - Ira Gershwin with and without George, to Chicago's Davenport's Piano Bar, at 1383 N. Milwaukee Ave, for an 8 p.m. performance. On Friday and Saturday, August 21^st and 22^nd, ...His Lovely Wife, Ira, plays 9 p.m. shows at Los Angeles' popular Gardenia, 7066 Santa Monica Blvd. (one block East of La Brea). There is a $20 music charge with a two drink minimum in both L.A. and Chicago. For Davenport's reservations, call (773) 278-1830, or go to www.DavenportsPianoBar.com. For The Gardenia in Los Angeles, call (323) 467-7444.

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The Performing Arts Center at UNLV, Southern Nevada's premier performing arts venue for nearly 35 years, recently announced its 2009-20010 season, which includes the longstanding Charles Vanda Master Series, New York Stage & Beyond Series, and UNLV Classical Guitar Series. The season opens on September 26^th with the Charles Vanda Master Series performance by the Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company. Since 1955, the company has toured the exquisite charm of Ukrainian folk dance to international audiences. Additional performances within this season's Charles Vanda Master Series are violinist Midori on October 23^rd; the Moscow Festival Ballet performing Coppelia on February 4^th; the Band of the Irish Guards with the Pipes, Drums and Dancers of the Royal Regiment of Scotland on February 28^th; the Moscow State Radio Symphony Orchestra on March 13^th; and the Vienna Boys Choir on March 18^th. October 9^th opens the New York Stage & Beyond Series with the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Company. Called "world-class" by The New York Times, the company is guided by a vision of dance as the universal language of movement that celebrates performance, individual expression, healing, and peace. Other performances within the New York Stage & Beyond Series include A Forbidden Broadway Christmas on December 5; The Best Sounds of Rodgers and Hammerstein: Broadway in Concert on January 31^st; Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo on February 6^th; and An Evening with Bernadette Peters on May 1. Enjoy a classic evening of Broadway and cabaret with Broadway's biggest star. A seven-time Tony nominee, Bernadette Peters manages to dazzle both audiences and critics alike. The UNLV Classical Guitar Series, held in the Doc Rando Recital Hall of the Lee & Thomas Beam Music Center, features Australians, Slava and Leonard Grigoryan on October 14^th; William Kanengiser on November 18^th; Adam del Monte March 25^th; and Ricardo Cobo and Christopher McGuire on April 23^rd. For information on purchasing a season subscription, please call (702) 895-ARTS (2787), or visit pac.unlv.edu.

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On Thursday nights, August 20^th and 27^th, busy Ronnie Rose on vocals and harmonica, and Billy T, at the piano, will be performing at the new Daddy Mac's Restaurant, perched on a hill at 2920 N. Green Valley Parkway (north of Sunset, on the east side of street in Henderson. Dine to a live music background from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Call (702) 272-0913 for reservations.

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In their Feinstein's at Loews Regency debut, the husband and wife team of Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano, the "Nick and Nora of cabaret," stir a late-summer cocktail of blue skies, exotic lands and the warmth of home. With 8:30 p.m. shows on Thursday, August 20^th, and Friday, the 21^st, the musical duo, with Sean Smith accompanying on bass, will perform Let's Get Away From It All, with songs by Kenny Rankin, Matt Dennis, Frank Loesser, Vernon Duke, Charles Strouse, Irving Berlin, Bart Howard, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Harold Arlen, John Wallowitch, and others. "Mr. Comstock and Ms. Fasano are turning the neighborhood into a hotbed of pleasure," says Stephen Holden of the New York Times, while Frank Scheck of the New York Post says, "When they sing together, the evening is transformed from collaboration to alchemy." There is a $25 music charge, plus a $25 food and drink minimum. Dinner and drinks are available from 6 p.m. Currently celebrating their 10^th anniversary season, Feinstein's at Loews Regency is located at Park Avenue at 61^st Street. Call (212) 339-4095 for information.

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Gayle Steele

Sonny Turner

Reminders...
Gayle Steele is the featured entertainment, this Sunday night at the Italian joint on Las Vegas Blvd. South. Gayle is a terrific singer, which isn't too surprising, considering that her mother is opera singer, Audrey Holmes, and her brother is pop singer, Clint Holmes.

Sonny Turner, former lead singer of the famed Platters, will sing hits such as "Only You," "The Great Pretender," "Twilight Time" and "My Prayer," when he performs at the Suncoast this weekend. Showtimes are at 8 p.m., tonight through Sunday. Tickets start at $19.95 plus taxes and feels. Call (702) 636-7075 for reservations.

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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 - August 7, 2009

Naked Boys Singing!

Wayne Brady

Naked Boys Singing! The name of this musical comedy is self-explanatory. Eight buffed and butt naked guys, with camera-ready bods and perky personalities to match, sing and dance their way through 16 original musical numbers dedicated to stripping you of your inhibitions in a glorious celebration of the altogether...and they succeed. After the initial shock wears off, you get so accustomed to the nudity that it no longer gets in the way of the entertainment. The effect is strangely liberating. It's only 90 minutes long, and by the time the Naked Boys take their final bow, you will feel overdressed in a tank top. Naked Boys Singing! is produced by

Jimmy Emerson and Michael Morse. Show times are at 10 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10 p.m., with an added 3 p.m. matinee on Sundays. Tickets are $30. The Onyx Theatre is located inside The Rack clothing store at 953 East Sahara #16, in Commercial Center. Call (702) 732-7225.

And speaking of Jimmy Emerson, on Monday nights, the Goodtimes Bar & Nightclub, at 1775 East Tropicana at Spencer (in the Liberace Plaza) will present eight of the cast members of the Riviera's long running, An Evening at La Cage. Hosted by comic Jimmy Emerson, show times for the female impersonator show, are 10 p.m.

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The game show, Let's Make a Deal, is coming back to daytime television. CBS says that an updated version of the show will debut on October 5^th, with Wayne Brady as host. The network says that the premise of audience members trying to win cash and prizes by making "wacky deals" will be intact. Monty Hall, longtime host of the original Let's Make a Deal, is a consultant on the new show. It will replace Guiding Light, the soap opera that's ending its more than five-decade run September 21^st. Brady also hosts the singing game show, Don't Forget the Lyrics! on FOX. Busy Brady also headlines in Making $%!^ Up at the Venetian in Las Vegas. Wayne's debut album was released in September. The song, "A Change is Gonna Come", a cover of the popular 1964 single by Sam Cooke, earned Brady a Grammy nomination in the Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance category.

Winner Helen Jenner

Petula Clark

Katrina Loncaric

And speaking of games...If you aren't doing some of your gambling at the Cannery properties, perhaps you should be. It was on July 3^rd that Las Vegan, Jose R. Galvan, hit the Loco Loot Primary Jackpot at the Eastside Cannery Casino & Hotel, earning himself $60,110.62. Galvan had been playing for approximately 25 minutes before wagering 25 cents on his lucky penny game and hitting the jackpot. On July 23^rd, another Las Vegan, Helen Jenner struck it rich on a Wheel of Fortune slot machine at the North Las Vegas Cannery, winning herself $1,058,092.24. "We are very pleased that one of our regular Cannery Casino guests hit such a big jackpot on one of our Wheel of Fortune machines," said Josh Killian, director of marketing for Cannery Casino & Hotel. "Our guests have had some great luck here at the Cannery. In the past few years, we've had a large number of jackpot winners, including two Megabucks jackpots," he added.
Photo caption: Cannery Casino & Hotel presents lucky Wheel of Fortune jackpot winner, Helen Jenner, with a check for $1,058,092.24.

And speaking of the Cannery properties, on Sunday, August 30^th, the Rampart (a part of the Cannery holdings) will present Petula Clark in the JW Marriott Grand Ballroom. During the 1960s, Petula became known internationally for her popular upbeat hits, including "Downtown," "I Know a Place," "My Love," "Color My World," "A Sign of the Times," and "Don't Sleep In the Subway." With more than 70 million records sold worldwide, Petula Clark is the most successful British female solo recording artist ever, and is cited as such in the Guinness Book of World Records. The $40 tickets, on sale this Monday, not only include taxes and fees, but a buffet as well. The fun starts at 4 p.m. Call (702) 507-5900 for reservations.

And speaking of downtown, last Wednesday night, we were oh so busy, seeing two shows within a five hour period. At 7 p.m., we were at Don't Tell Mama, in downtown Vegas, where Atlanta, Georgia-native, Katrina Loncaric, was performing at the cabaret/piano bar. Accompanied by Michael Dubay on piano, Katrina opened her cabaret act with Petula‘s big hit, "Downtown." Katrina moved here to become a showgirl in Jubilee! at Bally‘s (which is why she called her one woman revue Vegas Showgirl), and later appeared in both the Broadway and Las Vegas productions of The Producers. At Don't Tell Mama, the long-legged singer/dancer/actress performed an eclectic mix of songs, all telling part of her history as an entertainer in this city (and elsewhere). Arriving in Southern Nevada in the heat of August, "Fever" was an appropriate song choice. Also included in the lineup, "He Ain't No Good," a song written by Katrina's brother, Tom Loncaric (a Michigan-based composer and arranger, who plays piano, banjo, ukulele, guitar, celesta, synthesizer and mandolin, and performs with his group, Tom Loncaric & His Orchestra); "Part of Your World," from Disney's Little Mermaid; "Tell Me On a Sunday," from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Song & Dance; "I Get a Kick Out of You;" Michael Bolton's "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You;" Frank Wildhorn's "Home Again," from The Scarlet Pimpernel; "When You've Got it, Flaunt It," a number Katrina did in The Producers when she understudied Leigh Zimmerman in the role of Ulla; and closing with Liberace's theme song, "I'll Be Seeing You." The crowd at Don't Tell Mama was enthusiastic and enjoyed Katrina's performance. The young lady now heads for Harrah's Laughlin, where she will sing back-up for Elvis Impersonator Todd Luxton, from tomorrow, August 8^th, through the 20^th. If you happen to be in the neighborhood...

Ali Spuck

Bevery Washburn book

Rich Natole

At 10 p.m., we were at the Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum (we spend an awful lot of time there, these days), along with a lot of other people. It seems that was the late night place to be on Wednesday. We were there to see Ali Spuck and Keely Vasquez host the latest ongoing series at the museum, called VS (as in Love VS Hate, John VS Paul, Hit Side VS B Side...well, you get the idea). The show that we saw this week was 1967 VS 1987. The first half featured songs from 1967, such as singer/actress, Ali, singing Jefferson Airplane's "Somebody To Love;" Ultimate Manilow singer, Keely, singing Lulu's "To Sir With Love;" Jersey Boy's, Charl Brown, backed by Ali, Keely, Kristofer McNeeley, Lauren Tartaglia, Jonathan Rodriguez, Andrea Best, and Lara Filip, doing "Where Do I Go," from Hair; Lara performing "I Think We're Alone Now," a hit for Tommy James & The Shondells in 1967, and for Tiffany in 1987; Formality‘s lead vocalist/guitarist, Jason Andino, performing Bobbie Gentry's "Ode To Billie Joe;" Andrea, from High School Musical, doing Janis Joplin's "Piece of My Heart;" and Jim Morrison look-alike, Drew Johnson, from The Doors tribute band, Mojo Rising, singing "Light My Fire." Following a brief intermission, the program continued with songs from 1987, leading off with the musical director for VS, Joey Melotti on piano, Mike Lent on guitar, Ian Martin on bass, Russ McKinnon on drums, and Ron Pedley on keyboards, all musicians with Barry Manilow, doing "The Way It Is," a hit for Bruce Hornsby. Diane Gordon, from the Wayne Brady show, did "Wanted Dead or Alive" (Bon Jovi); Charl did a great rendition of Janet Jackson's "Let's Wait Awhile;" Ali performed Erasure‘s "Victim of Love;" Andrea, Keely and Lara performed Gloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine‘s "Anything For You;" while Kristofer played guitar and sang, U2's hit, "With Or Without You." Keely and Ali did Heart‘s "Alone;" and Jason with Ali and Keely, and Mike Neufeld on guitar, ended the show with Bon Jovi's "Livin on a Prayer." The rocking full house did not want to let the group go, even though it was around midnight. To say the crowd was enthusiastic would be an understatement. The next VS. show is Forgive VS. Forget (the subject chosen by the audience), and it will be at the end of September or beginning of October. We will have that information, or check the Web site at www.vsrockcabaret.com
Photo of Ali Spuck by Barry Sweet

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If you are of a certain age (as in getting lots of offers from AARP), you may remember Beverly Washburn. Beverly was one of Hollywood's most familiar child actors during the 1950s and '60s. A consummate performer, who excelled at both comedy and drama with equal ease, the little lady was renowned for her uncanny ability to cry on cue. Beverly shed tears. Buckets of tears. Real AND reel tears. She appeared in countless television shows during the medium's Golden Age, and many of the era's best-loved movies, including Walt Disney's Old Yeller, The Greatest Show on Earth, Shane, and Spider Baby, just to name a few. Beverly made her first movie at age six, and quickly found her niche. Over the years, her circle of friends included some of the biggest names in movies and television, many of whom she "dated" in the pages of the fan magazines - and in real life. But Beverly's fame went far beyond the silver screen. In the 1960s, for example, she cut a hit record - "Everybody Loves Saturday Night" - written by the legendary folk artist, Pete Seeger. In her brand new, first book, Reel Tears - The Beverly Washburn Story, Ms. Washburn talks from the soul about her astounding career as a child actress, and the difficulties she encountered as she became a teenager and then an adult. She reflects back on her most famous movies, with many behind-the-scenes anecdotes never before revealed, and also discusses her enduring friendships with some of entertainment's most prominent performers, including Jack Benny, Loretta Young, Lou Costello, and George "Superman" Reeves. This is a heartfelt and deeply revealing autobiography, and a good read for anyone who loves the movies. By the way, Beverly Washburn has been a Las Vegan since 1995, when she moved here from Southern California with her husband. Reel Tears - The Beverly Washburn Story may be purchased online, through Amazon.

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Relative Las Vegas newcomer, comic/impressionist Rich Natole, supplies the laughs in the afternoons at the Tropicana Hotel. Natole, who moved here from Florida last year, performs in the Bobby Slayton Room (formerly the site of the Comedy Stop), with shows at 2 p.m., every day but Monday. Thanks to his clean, but very funny, act, Natole has been a favorite on the corporate circuit for a number of years, entertaining large crowds for companies such as GE, JC Penneys, Shell Oil, Colgate Palmolive, Nike, Verizon, Chrysler Corporation, American Express, Westinghouse, MCI and GTE, among them. Rich is a man filled with other people's voices. He mimics hundreds of celebrities, including Wayne Newton, Redd Foxx, Bill Cosby, George Burns, Johnny Mathis, Jack Nicholson, Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Tom Jones, Dean Martin, Rodney Dangerfield, Dr. Phil, Donald Trump, Larry King and Regis Philbin. Rich's version of the National Anthem, done by the presidents, from JFK to Obama, is a crowd pleaser. Although we haven't had a chance to check out Natole yet, we hear good things about him. Tickets to see and hear Rich Natole start at $29.95 plus taxes and fees. For reservations or additional information, call (800) 829-9034.

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The AP reports that Barbra Streisand is planning to auction off some of her personal items, including paintings, furniture, vintage collectibles and costumes that she wore in the films Funny Lady and Meet the Fockers. Some of the collectibles will be exhibited aboard the Queen Mary 2 during August, and then moved to Ireland and New York before going up for bid on October 17^th and 18^th at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Streisand Foundation, which supports women's, children's, environmental and political causes. The auction will be conducted by Julien's Auctions, the same company who held the auction of the Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson items in Las Vegas, the day after Michael‘s June 25^th death.

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Susan Haller, who performed as one-third of the Red Hot Red Heads! (the other two were Diane Ellis and Dolly Coulter) on July 26^th, goes solo on Sunday at Grace In the Desert the Episcopal Church in Summerlin, 2004 Spring Gate Lane. Susan calls her show Stiletto Sunday! It will be comprised of all original material (unlike the Red Hot Red Heads!, which was NOT made up of Haller's self-penned songs...in spite of what Cousin Claire wrote). Stiletto Sunday!, featuring the Seattle Jazz Society, is at 7 p.m. There will be a singers jam following the show. A $10 donation is suggested.

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Harry Basil

Rebecca Spencer

Lynne Foster

Comedian Harry Basil, who literally is a human movie trailer, will take his audience on a trip through Hollywood, as he headlines, Bob Kephart's Comedy Stop, in the Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel, Monday, August 10^th, through Sunday, the 16^th. Co-headlining with Basil will be Drew Thomas and Ace Guillen. Prop comic/impersonator Basil recreates and spoofs memorable moments from classic hit movies, by physically and vocally taking on a wide variety of unforgettable actors and movie characters, and even pulling unsuspecting audience members up on stage to act as costars. Harry was discovered by, Rodney Dangerfield, who picked him for the 9^th Annual HBO Young Comedian's Special. Basil became Dangerfield's exclusive opening act, and also opened for such superstars as, Liza Minnelli, Gloria Estefan, Chuck Berry and Julio Iglesias. Harry is not only a stand up comedian, but is a producer, director and writer for some of the funniest movies generated out of Hollywood, including three Rodney Dangerfield classics, Ladybugs, Meet Wally Sparks, and My Five Wives. He directed, "The 4^th Tenor" and the prison comedy, "Back by Midnight." Basil has also acted in numerous productions: "Peggy Sue Got Married," "The Seventh Sign," and "Meet Wally Sparks." It took being fired as an auto salesman in Atlanta, Georgia to give, Drew Thomas, the ambition to pursue a childhood dream of becoming a stand up comedian. Thomas entered a monthly competition and won three months in a row. Drew hit the road and never looked back at that automobile dealership. He draws an audience into his routine by discussing the follies of personal and everyday life along with current events. Ace Guillen is fairly new to stand up comedy. He started his career as a rocker, touring with rock bands and being named a finalist for the Inland Empire Music Awards, before bringing his musical talent to comedy. Guillen competed in both America's Got Talent and Last Comic Standing on NBC-TV. Showtime for the Comedy Stop is 9 p.m. nightly. Tickets are priced from $24.95 plus tax and fees. Nevada residents (with a valid Nevada drivers license) can buy tickets for $19.95 plus tax and fees. For further information and reservations, call (702) 737-2515.

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We hope you are putting away your dollars (you will need 125 of them) for the upcoming gala evening to be held at the Liberace Museum on Wednesday, August 19^th. Called Sound, Lights and Cabaret Nights: The Show Must Go On!, the goal of this talented group of Broadway and Las Vegas professionals is to raise enough money to install a permanent state-of-the-art sound and light system into the nonprofit museum's Cabaret Showroom. The event will be co-chaired by Philip Fortenberry and Keith Thompson, both conductors at Jersey Boys and long-time Broadway musicians. The benefit begins at 6 p.m., with a cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception, followed by a concert at 7:30. Entertainers scheduled to perform include Fortenberry, Erich Bergen, Travis Cloer, Rick Faugno, Kristofer McNeeley and Carly Thomas Smith, all of Jersey Boys; Kristen Hertzenberg and Joan Sobel of Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular; Tyler Williams from Le Reve; former Liberace protégé Domenick Allen, Clint Holmes, Susan Anton, Martin Nievera, all Vocal Soup artists; comedienne/singer, and former Mamma Mia! principal, Vicki Van Tassel; singer-actress Ali Spuck; and Christopher-Joel Carter IV, a featured pianist at M Resort and showmanship winner of the 2008 Liberace Piano Competition. "As the theatre community of Las Vegas grows, many performers find themselves longing for the nurturing artistic environment of the cabaret rooms of New York and Los Angeles, so they've begun to discover the Cabaret at the Liberace Museum as a jewel of a performance venue just moments from the Strip," said Fortenberry, an accomplished composer and concert pianist who performs his own critically-acclaimed show in the Cabaret Showroom, at 1 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, each week. "The Liberace Cabaret provides such a uniquely intimate and alternative venue for performers who find themselves in Las Vegas, wanting to spread their artistic wings and share their gifts and talents with the public." The Liberace Museum remains one of the city's top tourist attractions, with its rich history showcasing the illustrious career of Liberace, an entertainer and philanthropist who for 47 years performed for millions of fans, royals and dignitaries around the world. The Museum, now open seven days a week, is a significant funding source for the Liberace Foundation, created in 1976 by Liberace, and supported solely by private donations from individuals, businesses, fan clubs, and admirers globally. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law Residents and local businesses are encouraged to support the event through cash or in-kind donations in care of the Liberace Cabaret fund. Tickets for Sound, Lights and Cabaret Nights: The Show Must Go On! are $125 per person and may be purchased by phone (702) 798-5595 ext. 14, or in person at the Liberace Museum. This is expected to be a sell out, so order your tickets very soon. The Liberace Museum is located at 1775 E. Tropicana Ave. (at Spencer). Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

And speaking of Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular, Rebecca Spencer, who portrayed Madame Giry in the lavish Venetian production, will participate in a reading of the new musical, The Cuban and the Redhead, about the life of the late Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Rebecca joins Brandon O'Neill, as the Cuban bandleader, Nicole Beerman, as the famous redhead, Eileen Galindo, and a cast of a dozen additional actors, at next Friday‘s (August 14^th), the 7:30 p.m. presentation at the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre in Issaquah, Washington. A part of the Village Theatre's Ninth Annual Festival of New Musicals, the "Village Originals" reading is directed by Kathryn Van Meter, with musical direction by Jim Fischer. The Cuban and the Redhead features a book and score by Robert Bartley and Danny Whitman. "Escaping the bloodshed of his native Island," press notes state, "a young Cuban boy sets sail on a turbulent journey that leads him all the way to Hollywood and into the arms of a fiery, redheaded movie star named Lucille Ball. At the climax of The Cuban and the Redhead, Desi and Lucy put their money, their trust and their dreams on the line in a gamble to save one thing - their marriage. They risk it all on an untested medium called television. Can these two star-crossed lovers blaze a path that defies Hollywood and history to be together?" Cuban was featured in the 2008 National Alliance for Musical Theatre Festival, the 2008 Festival of New American Musicals in Los Angeles and in staged readings by the York Theatre Company. Village Theatre is dedicated to the preservation and artistic development of musical theatre, one of our country's most enduring art forms. Village Originals is a nationally recognized program and represents one of the strongest commitments to new musicals anywhere. Over the years, Village Originals and Village Theatre have nurtured the development of more than 75 new musicals (including the Tony-winning, Next To Normal) - some of which have received subsequent productions in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, and Taiwan.

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We are saddened to report two more deaths connected to the Las Vegas entertainment community.
Lynne Foster, the wife of Dick Foster, of Dick Foster Productions, passed away in Twin Falls, Idaho, on July 31^st. A native of Idaho, it was while working on a Peggy Fleming TV special in Sun Valley, that Lynne met the man who would become her husband. She and Dick married in 1975. Over their years in Las Vegas, Lynne and Dick produced Spellbound that ran for eight years at Harrah's, Imagine at the Luxor, Alakazaam at the Aladdin (now Planet Hollywood), the Rio's Show In the Sky, and Hats! at Harrah's. Lynne was the creative force behind the award-winning Bevertainer program at the Rio. A memorial service is planned for an as yet undetermined date. In lieu for flowers, the family has suggested donations to Opportunity Village, 6300 W. Oakey Blvd., Las Vegas 89146. Lynne Foster was 62.

Steven Hood

Thelma Houston

Steve Schirripa

In March, we wrote of a fundraiser to help the family of Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular cast member, Steven Hood, who was battling leukemia in a Los Angeles hospital. Prior to his role in Phantom, Mr. Hood had performed in Las Vegas productions of Man of La Mancha (as Don Quixote), Fiddler On the Roof (Tevye), and A Funny Thing Happened On the Way To the Forum (Pseudolus). At one time, he was even a singing gondolier at the Venetian. In Los Angeles, Steven appeared in a number of productions, including Minnie's Boys as Groucho Marx, a role he later reprised on the Academy Awards in a tribute to the Marx Brothers. Steven served as vice-chair of the Actors' Equity Liaison Committee of Las Vegas. Sadly, following a massive stroke on Wednesday, Steven Hood, 61, died at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, their children, and his grieving Phantom family. Private funeral services will be held in California, with a local memorial service held in Las Vegas at a later date. When the date is determined, we will print it.

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Beginning Wednesday, the Las Vegas Hilton will present five consecutive nights of top talent in their 1,600-seat theater. All of the shows are presented by Eric Floyd of Goddess Empire Entertainment. On the 12^th, it's Diva Fever Revue, featuring Broadway and $100,000 Star Search vocal champion winner, Peggi Blu ("Tender Moments," "Love Is the Magic"); Thelma Houston ("Don't Leave Me This Way"); Oscar and Grammy Award-winner, Irene Cara ("Fame," "Out Here On My Own," "Breakdance," "Flashdance...What a Feeling"); soul icon and jazz legend, Freda Payne ("Band of Gold," "Deeper & Deeper," "Bring the Boys Home") ; American Idol and Broadway performer, Frenchie Davis (Broadway's Rent, Dreamgirls); and International Pop/Dance Diva and Universal Sex Symbol, Wanda Dee & The KLF. Showtime is at 8 p.m. and tickets are $50, $65 and $75. At 8 p.m. on Thursday, Diva Fever Revue (Part Deux) features multiple Grammy Award-winners, The Emotions ("Best of My Love," "Boogie Wonderland"); and soul, dance and disco divas, Sister Sledge, featuring Kathy Sledge ("He‘s the Greatest Dancer," "We Are Family," "My Guy"). Tickets are $50, $65 and $75. After a smashing June debut in the Shimmer Cabaret at the Hilton, on Friday night at 7, it's the Hilton return of Siameze, The Godson Of Rock & Soul...this time to the main room! As part of Siameze's show, a special star-studded Michael Jackson song and dance tribute will take place. Tickets are $25 and $40. On Saturday and Sunday nights, at 8 p.m., Eric Floyd's Old School Party will be presented. Featured acts will include Stephanie Mills (Broadway's The Wiz, 1980 Grammy-winner, "Home," "Never Knew Love Like This Before"); Vanilla Ice ("Ice Ice Baby," "Play That Funky Music"), Shannon ("Let the Music Play"), Sisqo ("It's All About Me"), The KLF ("3 A.M. Eternal"), C & C Music Factory ("Gonna Make You Sweat," "Here We Go," "Things That Make You Go Hmmmm..."), Carol Douglas ("Doctor's Orders"), Carol Williams ("Love Is You"), Taana Gardner ("Heartbeat," "Work That Body," "When You Touch Me"), Meli'sa Morgan ("Do Me, Baby," "Still In Love With You"), Technotronic ("Pump Up the Jam," "Get Up! Before the Night Is Over"), Full Force ("I Wonder If I'll Take You Home," "All Cried Out"), Force MD's ("Tender Love"), UTFO ("Roxanne, Roxanne"), Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam ("Head To Toe," "Lost In Emotion") and others. Tickets for Old School Party are $65, $95 and $125. For reservations and/or information about any or all of these shows,, call (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361.

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The Las Vegas Tenors are back at the Suncoast (we're sure it's by popular demand), with 8 p.m. shows, tonight through Sunday. Comprised of Bill Fayne, Bobby Black and Teddy Davey, this trio of fine singers have become local favorites. Mr. Fayne promises that there will be "a great 11-piece orchestra; new music - from the Beatles to Broadway, and from Popera to Rock; plus lots of fun." There should be something (or lots of somethings) to suit everyone's musical tastes. Tickets range from $19.95 plus taxes and fees. Call (702) 636-7075 for tickets or information.

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We received an e-mail, from reader Carolyn in Seattle, who has something else on her mind. Carolyn writes...
We loved the idea of hearing our favorite "chick singers" like Diane Ellis and Loretta St. John at DeStefano's. Unfortunately, the overamplification of everything soured the whole dining and entertainment experience. Last time we went there, on a Saturday night, we walked in, heard the level of the sound, said to each other "Nope," and walked right back out. We'll never go back. Guess we're too old, because we remember when small supper clubs were more acoustic and much more enjoyable. This sound thing is one of my pet peeves.
Hopefully, the business owners pay attention to the feelings of their customers. A number of years ago, we had a horrible experience at Bahama Breeze on East Flamingo. We were part of a fairly large (about 20 people) group attending a party at the restaurant. The "music" was deafening! It was SO loud, we could not visit at all, and the server could not hear what we were ordering, therefore bringing the wrong items to the waiting customers. A number of the guests moved from the "patio" to inside the place, in hopes of being able to have a pleasant conversation, while others just went home.

And, from another reader, regarding Las Vegas residents, Mary Allen and his bride of 25-years, Karon Kate Blackwell, who just did some one-nighters at Catch a Rising Star clubs in New York and New Jersey, we received this e-mail from Richard P. in Queens...
Saw Marty Allen and Karon Kate Blackwell on Friday July 31 at The Catch A Rising Star in Princeton New Jersey. What a great show. Marty was so funny I couldn't stop laughing. Karon's choice of songs kept the room jumping. The banter between Marty and Karon was up to par with Burns and Allen I enjoyed the show very much and recommend it to all.
Thanks for the mini-review, Richard. We know that it will mean a lot to Marty and Karon, not to mention their producer, Howard Jochsberger, that you took the time to convey your positive feelings.

And also on the subject of Mr. and Mrs. Allen, we got this e-mail from MaLizMa in New York City...
Thanks for your tip about Marty Allen & Karon Kate Blackwell at the "Catch-A-Rising-Star" Comedy Clubs!
What a treat to have this sensational show on the East Coast! Marty was absolutely HYSTERICAL and Karon has a great singing voice and energy to spare. Just an absolutely terrific show that the audience loved, loved, loved! I would have missed it had a friend not sent me your column! SIGN ME UP!

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Face the Ace, a new poker show airing on NBC prime time Saturday night, found itself in last place in the ratings. The news can't be good for a show that went up against a bunch of reruns. Fox won the night with two installments of Cops and America's Most Wanted. Face the Ace, hosted by Steve Schirripa, had 1.6 million viewers and a 0.4/2 share. Compare that with America's Most Wanted in the same time slot with nearly 5 million viewers during its second half (the 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. time period). Over the past few years, poker shows have enjoyed top ratings on Cable including the Travel Network (World Poker Tour) and ESPN (coverage of the World Series of Poker). Everyday contestants appear on the show and play against professionals like Phil Ivey and Patrik Antonius. Contestants could win up to $1 million. Schirripa, most well-known for his role as Bobby Baccalieri on the HBO TV series, The Sopranos, has a long history in Las Vegas. Long before getting into acting, Steve worked as a bouncer at Paul Anka's, long gone Harmon Avenue nightclub, Jubilation. He later worked the door at some of the showrooms at the Riviera, before becoming the hotel's entertainment director. He continues to work for the casino as a consultant. During his work here, he landed a role as an extra in the Martin Scorsese film, Casino. Since that time, Schirripa has appeared in a number of films and all over TV, including recurring appearances with Jay Leno on the Tonight Show. Schirripa even filled in as co-host on NBC's Today show fourth hour, joining Kathie Lee Gifford during Hoda Kotb's absence. Steve has also written a series of Goomba books with Charles Fleming, such as The Goomba's Guide to Life, The Goomba's Book of Love, and The Goomba Diet.

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Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman, also known as "the happiest Mayor in the Universe" (we suspect all that Bombay Sapphire Gin helps keep Oscar happy), celebrated his 70th birthday in Las Vegas on Friday, July 31 with a public party at the Fremont Street Experience. Among the list of entertainers who participated in the special occasion event, were the busy Wayne Brady, Nathan Burton and Zowie Bowie, to name a few. The event was emceed by KLUC FM's Chet Buchanan. All proceeds benefited the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Opportunity Village and Three Square.

Mayor Oscar Goodman

Mary Marcella Schwartz & Sharon Gless

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On Sunday, August 9^th, at 2 p.m., when Praise plays at the South Point showroom for the third time, Larry Hart's Irreverently Reverent Gospel Experience will be joined during the finale by the Las Vegas Mass Choir under the direction of James R. Smith. In addition to Hart, the concert features special guests, Darcus Speed and Larry‘s mother, entertainer, along with former Shirelle, Diane Spann; ex-Rockette MarQue; country dynamo, Jennifer Weatherly; commercial and casino lounge singer, Jeneane Marie; jazz vocalist, Paris Red; and Korean-American songstress, Jenevi. Praise is inspired by the world's 10 major religions and, in a fun and entertaining way, celebrates the rural roots of gospel music while fusing it with the idea of higher consciousness. The original 90-minute, well-costumed, fully orchestrated non-secular musical was written and conceived by Larry Hart, who is a multi-platinum and Grammy winning recording artist. Praise is a condensed version of a future Broadway show. For this Sunday's performance, a $5-off discount is being offered to seniors 55 +, a half-off discount is available to military personnel, and there's a $10-off discount for church goers. General admission tickets are $25, $30 and $35; senior tickets are $20, $25 and $30; military prices are $12.50, $15 and $17.50, and church tickets are $25, $20 and $15. The code words are: senior, military and church. All tickets prices include taxes. Call the South Point box office at (702) 797-8055 or (866) 796-7111 for reservations.

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British Micro Sculptor, Willard Wigan, who produces incredible sculptures, all inside the eye of a needle or on a pin head, supports only two charities, one is MagiCaresTM, and the other is the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. Paul Stone, the man who produces variety and magic shows (and the recent Society of Seven appearances) at the Suncoast and Orleans, launched MagiCaresTM with Siegfried and Roy ( who are Honorary Trustees ) at the London Palladium last September. On August 12^th, Wigan will be a guest on the Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. Wigan is expected to mention the upcoming, September, MagiCaresTM show at The Orleans, where a sculpture that he did of Siegfried and Roy will be auctioned off. We will have more about this event in the next couple of weeks. Check out Wigan's Web site at www.willardwigan.com.

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In our July 24^th column, we wrote about the annual Richmond/Ermet Aids Foundation Help Is On the Way XV: No Business Like Show Business, 15th Anniversary Gala. Taking place at the Herbst Theater in San Francisco on Sunday, August 2nd, this annual event is Northern California's largest star-studded AIDS benefit concert and gala. The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, established to raise funds for AIDS service provider agencies through the production of quality entertainment events. Born from the grass-roots efforts of two mothers, Barbara Richmond and the late Peggy Ermet, who both lost their only sons to AIDS as a way to honor their sons' memories and to help alleviate the suffering of many of the other sons and daughters living with HIV and AIDS. Although we were unable to attend, our friend, Mary Marcella Schwartz, could and did experience the awesome evening (thanks to the kindness and generous spirit of music man, Michael Orland) and, for whatever reason (she loves us), Ms. Schwartz volunteered to give us a "brief" rundown of the event. Much like Cousin Claire, Mary Marcella can't say anything in 25 words or less. The historian suggested editing what she wrote but we aren't going to do that. We are printing the entire thing! Here goes...
The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation (REAF) 15^th Anniversary Gala was a huge success and fit the show's theme and opening number "There is "No Business Like Show Business" perfectly! All of the numbers were taken from Broadway's finest shows. Tyne Daly was vivacious and quite daring in her very, very (did we say "very") high shocking pink and red heels performing Broadway-esque renditions of "Some People" ("Gypsy") and "Row Row Row" – much to the audience's delight. She was a breath of fresh air and a million miles from her characters in her hit TV shows "Cagney & Lacey" and "Judging Amy." Where there was Tyne Daly, there was Sharon Gless ("Burn Notice"), the surprise of the evening! Ms. Gless, dressed in a maid's costume, played foil to Ms. Daly, throwing rose petals at her feet during her grand entrance. Unfortunately, Ms. Gless' character was later shot by Broadway star Carole Cook and carted off on a stretcher. The audience went wild! Speaking of Carole Cook, she didn't miss a beat (or a word) in her hilarious off-color monologue. She appeared radiant as she flung one-liners as fast as we could catch them. Her (true?) stories from the "old days" of show-biz made us wish we knew her then, but very glad we know her now. When she sang "There's No Business Like Show Business" ("Annie Get Your Gun"), we believed her. Right in sync with "Dancing With the Stars," Cate Caplin and Gary Franco choreographed and flawlessly danced their way into everyone's heart with Cole Porter's "Night and Day" ("Gay Divorce") and "Cellblock Tango" ("Chicago"). Cate coached David Hyde Pierce for nine months to prepare him for "Six Dance Lessons" and "Spamalot." Gary was a Principal Dancer with the Boston Ballet, Disney's Symphonic Fantasy, and the American Folk Ballet. With Cate as his partner, he was a Performing Arts World Champion in Theatrical ShowDance. Shawn Ryan, accompanied by Kelly Park, performed "I'm Checking Out" ("Postcards from the Edge"). He went into the audience and brought up two unsuspecting men to compete in his cleverly created "What Movies Made Us Gay?" Shawn was quick-witted, hilarious, and very entertaining as the gay host to this new reality show. Davis Gaines' egocentric rendition of "If Ever [You] Would Leave [Me]" ("Camelot") was terrific. He had 8x10 glossies of himself pinned to the inside of his jacket lapels and a stack that he flung into the audience at the end of his number -- after first signing one for a fan in the front row. The cast of "Top Shelf's Motown Madness" paid homage to many of Motown's great performers, including Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Marvin Gaye and Tammy Terrell, and (of course) The Jackson Five. Dressed in beautiful white suits and gowns, they moved and grooved beautifully to these classic songs. The Tony award-winning John Lloyd Young brought down the house twice with "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You" ("Jersey Boys") and Stephen Sondheim's "Being Alive" ("Company"). He stars in his new comedy, "Oh Vey! My Son Is Gay!" with Lainie Kazan, Saul Rubinek, Carmen Electra, Jai Rodriguez, Bruce Vilanch, and Vince Pastore. Melinda Doolittle of "American Idol" fame sang "Home" ("The Wiz") like she had been performing for a million years. As a back-up artist for Michael McDonald, Aaron Neville, CeCe Winans, Melinda built her vocal confidence to become a household name on the sixth season of "Idol." She is a truly amazing and talented upcoming young artist, who's just as natural and comfortable off-stage as she is on. Dressed in her gown and sparkling tiara, Maureen McVerry was the believable old maid princess singing "Where In the World Is My Prince?" (Miss Spectacular"). We truly felt for her when her beau left hand-in-hand with "his" prince. Her comedic talent, timing, and voice were spectacular and left the audience with a happy ending. With an original name like "BaulPointPen," it was quite refreshing that the originators were, in fact, very original. Longtime friends Ben McLain and Paul Peglar, graduates of UC Irvine and UCLA School of Theatre, blended their innate musical ability and a crafted sense of understated comedy performing an "Audition Piece" and "Friends Like Me" ("Aladdin"). With the rousing audience appreciation, I'm sure "BaulPointPen" will become a household name. The audience was on their feet and boogey-ing to Jeanie Tracy's rousing rendition of "Last Dance/Everybody Up," which she co-wrote with Paul Jabara. Susan Anton's genuinely heartfelt words hit home when she said that time is precious – "Once it's gone, you can't go to an ATM and get more." Her performance of Peter Allen's "Once Before I Go" ("The Boy From Oz") was as towering as Susan's stature and her inner beauty shone as brightly as her outer beauty. Joely Fisher would have made her parents Eddie Fisher and Connie Stevens proud. Quietly glamorous in her bugle-bead gown, this mother of five sang "Astonishing/Day of Plenty" ("Little Women"), whose lyrics seemed to have been written especially for this event. With an introduction by Tyne Daly and Carole Cook, the audience watched a video of the finale song "Help Is On the Way," written by David Friedman. The performer was Nancy LaMott, a courageous woman who passed away from cancer only six months after her performance. The show was brilliantly staged and directed by David Galligan, whose stage and theatre credits are too many to mention. For the past twenty-four years, he has directed and co-produced the annual S.T.A.G.E. fundraisers for AIDS charities. He co-produced the Actors' Fund recordings "Tap Your Troubles Away: The Words and Music of Jerry Herman" and began his career at the famed Opera Ring under the guidance of Irma Kay. He staged "Help Is On the Way" for the last thirteen years. For his third year, Michael Orland, currently the pianist, arranger and Associate Musical Director for "American Idol," musically directed "Help Is On the Way." With enough credits to fill a grand piano, Michael has collaborated with music industry giants Burt Bacharach, Neil Sedaka, Diane Warren, Elton John, Dolly Parton, Martina McBride, Jennifer Lopez and Tony Bennett. He has played and conducted for many celebrities, including Susan Anton, Sam Harris, Jennifer Holliday, Gladys Knight, and Barry Manilow, to name a few. Michael is idolized by his "Idol" contestants and everyone that has the good fortune to work with him. Bill Keck, Musical Director of "Beach Blanket Babylon," took his sixth turn as Musical Director for this "Help Is On the Way" production. He has accompanied Carol Lawrence, Rich Little, Jim Bailey and Sylvia Sims, and worked theatrically with E.Y. Harburg, Sheldon Harnick and Alan Menken. Dedicated partners, Joe Seiler and Ken Henderson, have served as Co-Executive Producers for "Help Is On the Way" events since REAF's inception. In addition, Joe has done voice-over work and has produced and edited a series of promotional video presentations about REAF and the fight against AIDS. As one of the original founders of REAF, Ken first served as Chairman of the Board and currently serves as Executive Director.

Thank you, Mary Marcella!

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Tags: Wayne Brady Helen Jenner Petula Clark Katrina Loncaric

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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 - July 31, 2009

Ali Spuck & Tish Diaz

Christopher-Joel Carter

Katrina Loncaric

Shhh. We know a secret. The Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum has become one of the best spots for entertainment in the city. We don't want too many folks to know about it, though, because it's a relatively small performance space, seating only about 80 people. The Cabaret is where Philip Fortenberry (and, when Philip has other commitments, Keith Thompson) plays piano and tells a story of music and musicians, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 1 p.m. It is also the site of the monthly, late night, Composers Showcase and some very special musical programs. On Sunday afternoons at 2:30, for example, Ali Spuck performs her one-woman show called Here I Am. Then, there is VS, a new monthly series featuring the stars of Phantom, Jersey Boys, and other major production shows in Las Vegas, in a unique concept...as in something VS. something else (see more about Ali and VS. below).

Then there are people such as Erich Bergen (Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys), Nicole Pryor (Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular), Rebecca Spencer (formerly Madam Giry in Phantom), Bruce Ewing (Phantom), Joan Sobel (Phantom), and others, who create their own individual one-person showcases to perform in the Cabaret Showroom. Always different. Always entertaining.

In just the last week and a half, we attended three different performances in the Cabaret Showroom. On Thursday, the 23^rd, it was the July edition of the Composers Showcase. Last Saturday night, John Kaye and the Coalition, made up of some of the city's top musicians - onetime Liberace Scholarship recipient, Tony Branco, on piano; Jeff Davis, a current scholarship winner, on bass; and Dana Barry on guitar. Among the folks in the audience for John's performance, we spotted his father, Norman Kaye of the Mary Kaye Trio fame, step-mother, Barbara Meriwether Kaye; singer/actor Don Lance; Liberace's favorite furrier and friend, the still beautiful Anna Nateese; singer Diane Ellis; community philanthropist, Cindy Doumani; and Jim Hodge, former principal production show singer.

On Wednesday, August 5^th at 10 p.m., the Liberace Museum will be the site of a new cabaret concept. The idea, which made its debut in May, is called VS, and it's an event produced by performers for performers. Ali Spuck co-created the concept with Keely Vasquez of Ultimate Manilow, and together they host the new monthly cabaret concept to showcase top talent from some of the biggest shows in Las Vegas, including Jersey Boys, The Lion King, Phantom-The Las Vegas Spectacular, visiting Broadway greats, and stars from TV/Film and the LA Theatre scene, plus the Las Vegas-based a cappella group, Mosaic, winner of MTV's "Top Pop Group." It's not an open mic, nor traditional cabaret. Backed by a live house band featuring some of the best musicians in Las Vegas, it's a combination of a rock show and cabaret. Each show has a different theme that will contrast two different concepts, artists, shows, composers, etc. We'll pull from all styles of music - you never know what you'll get to see and hear! Think Hello Vs. Goodbye...Love Vs. Hate...John Vs. Paul...B-Sides Vs. Hits...and the list goes on! This Wednesday's VS theme is 1967 VS. 1987. The cast includes Andrea Bochicchio from High School Musical, Erich Bergen from Jersey Boys, Charl Brown also from Jersey Boys, and Benjamin Hale from Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular. Additional cast members are expected to be part of 1967 VS. 1987. Joey Melotti, who has worked with Michael Bolton, Rickie Lee Jones, Julio Iglesias, Liza Minnelli, and is currently with Barry Manilow, serves as he show's musical director and pianist. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Call (702) 798-5595 ext 13 or send your ticket request to info@liberace.org

Add Ali Spuck and her Here I Am mini bio-musical act to the current ongoing lineup at the Liberace Cabaret. Ali is a Los Angeles Ovation Award nominated actress and singer. She recently finished the pre-Broadway run of Vanities at the Pasadena Playhouse. Ali's professional work includes Broadway and international workshops of Zorro (London's West End), DreamWorks' Gladiator, and Disney's Snow Queen; the national tours of Jekyll & Hyde, Grease, and Buddy: the Buddy Holly Story; and a variety of new works and regional performances. Ms. Spuck (also known as Mrs. McNeeley, as she is the wife of Jersey Boy, cast member, Kristofer McNeeley), created the role of Jenny in Internet Dating: the Musical, written by 30 Rock's Ron Weiner. She has worked with Neil Patrick Harris, Jason Alexander, Dick Van Dyke, Kristen Bell, Zachary Quinto, Michael York, Alan Menken, Steven Weber, Christopher Renshaw, Steven Blanchard, Lauren Kennedy and Judith Ivey, and has appeared at the Hollywood Bowl, Ford Amphitheatre, and 42nd Street Studios in New York City. Accompanied at the piano by Jersey Boys Tish Diaz, Ali Spuck: Here I Am, features a journey of music and comedy inspired by her experiences, family and friends. Selections include classic Broadway, new contemporary cabaret hits, and romantic Gershwin songs from the golden age of music. Here I Am is produced by Vs. a Rock Cabaret and Principle Productions. Tickets are priced at $15.

Tickets for all Cabaret Showroom at the Liberace Museum entertainment may be purchased by phone 702-798-5595 ext. 14, or in person at the Liberace Museum store cashier. Reservations are recommended. Museum store hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Museum, located at 1775 E. Tropicana Ave. at Spencer, is a significant funding source for the Liberace Foundation, created in 1976 by Liberace, and supported solely by private donations from individuals, businesses, fan clubs, and admirers globally. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

FYI...
The above mentioned guitar player, Dana Barry, is the son of Dave Barry - not the syndicated humor columnist, but the stand-up funny man who was Wayne Newton's opening act for more than eight years. A native of Brooklyn, Dave Barry began his career at the age of 16 on radio and throughout the Catskills. He served as an entertainer in the Army's Special Services Unit during WWII. After the war, Barry began a long association with Las Vegas, where his quick-fire comedy act warmed up audiences for many top stars. "I'm the kind of comic who fits here," he once told The New York Times. Dave kicked off his Las Vegas career performing at the El Rancho Hotel. He later appeared in the Desert Inn's (now Wynn Las Vegas) Hello America revue. Although he opened for a number of Vegas headliners, including Frank Sinatra, it was his long association with Newton that garnered Barry the most fans. In the 1950s, Dave Barry provided voices for several Capitol Records children's albums. He also made a featured appearance in the 1959 Billy Wilder hit, Some Like It Hot, and provided voice work for The Pink Panther TV series. In Some Like It Hot, Barry played Beinstock, the balding, owlish manager of the all-girl band Sweet Sue and her Society Syncopaters. "Can't understand it," he tells Daphne (Jack Lemmon) and Josephine (Tony Curtis), "first my glasses disappear, then one of my suitcases!" Soon, in poor Beinstock's stolen glasses, yachting cap and navy style blazer, Curtis is wooing the band's luscious vocalist, Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe), in the guise of a millionaire playboy with the voice of Cary Grant. In the later years of his career, the comic performed his act on cruise ships and appeared in the popular Palm Springs Follies variety show. Dave Barry passed away in 2001 at the age of 82.

And while still on the subject of all things Liberace, the top prize winner of the 2008 Liberace Piano Competition, personable Southern gentleman, Christopher Joel Carter IV of Albertville, Alabama, is currently performing in the Lobby Bar at the M Resort Spa & Casino in Las Vegas. The annual Liberace Piano Competition is presented by the Liberace Foundation to help talented students pursue careers in the performing and creative arts. The Foundation has awarded more than $5.2 million in scholarships to some 2,500 students at more than 120 colleges and universities.

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Also, on Wednesday, August 5^th, Katrina Loncaric will perform her one woman show at don't Tell Mama. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Katrina has been living in Las Vegas for five years, after moving to the city to join the cast of Bally's Donn Arden's Jubilee! as a Vegas Showgirl. After one contract as a showgirl (the showgirls are the tall, pretty ones who mostly "pose"), she become a featured singer. Following a brief stint as a Bevertainer (a singing cocktail server) at the Rio, Katrina was thrilled to be cast as the Pretzel Showgirl and the Ulla understudy in the Broadway company of The Producers. When the multiple Tony-winning Mel Brooks musical comedy opened at Paris Las Vegas, Katrina returned here to become a member of that cast (that, at different times, included Brad Oscar, Tony Danza, David Hasselhoff, Larry Raben, Lee Roy Reams, Bill Nolte and Rich Affannato among others), where she again understudied Ulla (played here by Leigh Zimmerman, aka Mrs. Domenick Allen and the mother of the very talented young Cayleigh Capaldi). Prior to living in Las Vegas, Katrina studied and performed improv comedy at Second City and Upright Citizen's Brigade in New York City. Katrina has been seen in theatre, bands, and dance companies in New York City, Los Angeles, DC, Atlanta, and Montana. Favorite Regional Theatrical roles include Lola in Damn Yankees, Irene in Crazy for You, Jeanie in Hair, among many others. An accomplished voiceover artist and the former promotions voice of TeeNick on Nickelodeon, Katrina is also New York City's Semi-Finalist for Yahoo's Favorite Amateur Yodeler. Katrina holds a B.A. in Communications from The Catholic University of America. She freelances regularly as a singer, voice over artist, dancer, model and actress. What else was a 5'10" long-legged performer from Atlanta supposed to do? Why come to Las Vegas, become a showgirl, and glide down staircases in great big hats, of course! Come join this Las Vegas/Broadway performer, in an evening of stories and songs, on Wednesday, beginning at 7 p.m., when, backed by Michael Dubay on piano, she will perform Katrina Loncaric - Vegas Showgirl at Don't Tell Mama, 517 E. Fremont Street (across from the El Cortez) in downtown Las Vegas. There is a $10 cover charge, plus a one drink minimum, for this show. Call (702) 207-0788.

And speaking of cabaret (and we do, when we can), if you are reading this early enough on Friday the 31^st, hurry over to DeStefano's (3430 E. Tropicana, northeast corner at Pecos) and catch one of our favorite chick singers, Diane Ellis. From 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., Diane will join Rochelle Felton and Christine Wiltshire, accompanied by the awesome Joe Darro at the piano. Diane will return to DeStefano's on Friday, August 14^th, where she will be singing with the Joe Darro Trio. Ms. Ellis reports that the food at DeStefano's is outstanding and says the tiramisu is the best she has ever tasted. This coming Monday night, at the same place, music lover, Evan Davis, recommends Lynn Ross' Those Marvelous Musicals, celebrating the musicals of stage and screen. Last week, among those sitting in for On With the Show Cabaret, were Susan Haller, Victor Moea, Gary Anthony, Marsha Kay, Joe LaVigna, Joni Illi, Patrick Kavenaugh, Lenice Bolton, comedy of Pamela Appel, and magician Jay Anthony. The Cabaret Band features Darro on keys, Dick Straub on upright bass, and Jimmy Racey on drums. Last Monday, Robbie Robinson and his saxophone sat in. (As these names were provided to us, and we don't know all of these folks, we are going to hope they are spelled correctly.) Reservations for dinner are recommended. Call (702) 364-8424

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Frenchie Davis

Siameze

Dolly Parton

Beginning on Wednesday, August 12^th, the Las Vegas Hilton will present five consecutive nights of top talent in their 1,600-seat theater. All of the shows are presented by Eric Floyd of Goddess Empire Entertainment. On Wednesday, the 12^th, it's Diva Fever Revue, featuring Broadway and $100,000 Star Search vocal champion winner, Peggi Blu (Tender Moments, Love Is the Magic); Oscar and Grammy Award-winner, Irene Cara (Fame, Breakdance, Out Here On My Own, Flashdance...What a Feeling); soul icon and jazz legend, Freda Payne (Band of Gold, Deeper & Deeper, Bring the Boys Home) ; American Idol and Broadway performer, Frenchie Davis (Rent, Dreamgirls); and International Pop/Dance Diva, Universal Sex Symbol, Wanda Dee & The KLF. Showtime is at 8 p.m. and tickets are $50, $65 and $75. At 8 p.m. on Thursday, the 13^th, Diva Fever Revue (Part Deux) features multiple Grammy Award-winners, The Emotions (Best of My Love, Boogie Wonderland); and soul, dance and disco divas, Sister Sledge, featuring Kathy Sledge (He's the Greatest Dancer, We Are Family, My Guy). Tickets are $50, $65 and $75. After a smashing June debut in the Shimmer Cabaret at the Hilton, this Friday night at 8, Siameze, The Godson Of Rock & Soul, returns to the property...this time to the main room! As part of Siameze's show, a special star-studded Michael Jackson song and dance tribute will take place. More than 100 dancers will participate. Tickets are $25 and $40. On Saturday and Sunday nights, at 8 p.m., Eric Floyd's Old School Party will be presented. Featured acts will include Vanilla Ice (Ice Ice Baby, Play That Funky Music), Shannon (Let the Music Play), Sisqo (It's All About Me), The KLF (3 A.M. Eternal), C & C Music Factory (Gonna Make You Sweat, Here We Go, Things That Make You Go Hmmmm...), Carol Douglas (Doctor's Orders), Carol Williams (Love Is You), Taana Gardner (Heartbeat, Work That Body, When You Touch Me), Meli'sa Morgan (Do Me, Baby, Still In Love With You), Technotronic (Pump Up the Jam, Get Up! Before the Night Is Over), Full Force ( I Wonder If I'll Take You Home, All Cried Out), Force MD's (Tender Love), UTFO (Roxanne, Roxanne), and Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam (Head To Toe, Lost In Emotion). Tickets for Old School Party are $65, $95 and $125. For reservations and/or information about any or all of these shows,, call (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361.

And speaking of Freda Payne, the soul, jazz and R&B diva, who has performed in Las Vegas a number of times in the past few years and returns as part of the Diva Fever Revue at the Hilton on August 12^th, takes her Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald show into Manhattan's Iridium Jazz Club, Thursday, August 6^th, through Sunday, August 9^th. Freda, who shot to fame in 1970 with "Band of Gold," will sing selections from the Ella Fitzgerald songbook for eight shows at Iridium - at 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. for all four nights. The Detroit-native followed up "Band of Gold" with hits such as "Deeper & Deeper" and "Bring the Boys Home." Payne, who has starred in a number of Broadway shows, including Jelly's Last Jam, Sophisticated Ladies and Blues in the Night, honors "The First Lady of Song" with her renditions of "A-tisket, A-tasket," "Sweet Georgia Brown," "It Don't Mean a Thing," "The Best Is Yet to Come," "The Lady Is a Tramp," "It's Too Darn Hot," "Miss Otis Regrets," "Angel Eyes," and "Mack the Knife," along with other Fitzgerald classics. About the show, the New York Amsterdam News stated, "Payne conjures the spirit of Ella... she's off the charts with Ella-tonian fever. Payne rocketed the crowd up into Ella's galaxy," while Variety wrote, "Payne bears a remarkable resemblance to the legendary singer's sound, and has mastered the wordless scatting style developed by Ella." "Payne makes Ella worth seeing and hearing. Her scatting is a wonder," says the Newark Star Ledger. Iridium is located at 1650 Broadway on the corner of 51^st Street. Tickets are $30. Call (212) 582-2121 for reservations.

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Dolly Parton's 9 to 5: The Musical will close on Labor Day weekend after a very disappointing four-month run. The musical, based on the 1980 film starring Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda and Parton, will have played only 148 performances when it closes at the Marquis Theatre on September 6^th.

Other Broadway news involves Las Vegan Jerry Lewis. Earlier this month, it was announced that a musical version of The Nutty Professor was heading to the Great White Way for the 2010-2011 season. According to the report, 83-year-old Lewis will direct, and Marvin Hamlisch will write the music and Rupert Holmes will do the book and lyrics. Both Hamlisch and Holmes are Tony Award winners, Marvin for A Chorus Line, and Rupert for The Mystery of Edwin Drood. There are plenty of talented, and hopeful, folks that will verify that saying something is opening on Broadway, and actually having it open, are two very different stories. And having something open on Broadway and be successful (see paragraph above), is yet another story. We will keep an eye on this one.

Justin Hopkins

Jimmy Hopper

Marleen Marino & Michaelina Bellamy

And on the local theater scene...
With no previous acting experience, Justin Hopkins has just landed a leading role in the Las Vegas Little Theatre's upcoming production of Ira Levin's Deathtrap. Nine months ago, Hopkins began studying acting with local teacher, Gerald Gordon. On Wednesday, Justin was cast to play Clifford Anderson in the dramatic thriller to be directed by Shawn Hackler. The 1982 film starred Michael Caine in the role of Sidney Bruhl, and the late Christopher Reeve as Clifford. Deathtrap opens at the Little Theatre, 3920 Schiff Drive (near Spring Mountain and Valley View), on September 11^th. For additional information, call (702) 362-7996.

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From one of Jimmy Hopper's many fans, Florence in Wayne, New Jersey, comes a request for information about her favorite singer. A regular reader, Florence is disappointed because she hasn't seen Jimmy's name in the column for a while. That is because we haven't gotten any interesting news about Mr. Hopper in recent months. We know that he works regularly in Newport Beach, California, where (not surprisingly) he has built himself a loyal fan base there, much like he did in Las Vegas. After getting Florence's e-mail, we made contact with Mr. Hopper's spokesperson, the lovely G.G. Conklin, who tells us she will have something newsworthy to report (involving Vegas, we think) about the unique entertainer, within the next couple of weeks. We will keep Florence, and the rest of the Hopper followers, posted. And, yes Florence, we certainly have seen and heard the magnificent Mr. Hopper sing, and, yes, he is wonderful. We're on your team.

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After performances at Feinstein's at Loews Regency on July 22^nd and 29^th, Jimmy Webb, Glen Campbell's favorite songwriter (and Richard Harris', Johnny Maestro's and the Brooklyn Bridge, Elvis, Isaac Hayes, The 5^th Dimension, and Frank Sinatra, who all had great success with Webb tunes), returns to the club on August 5^th and 12^th for shows at 8:30 p.m. Jimmy, who wrote ("Wichita Lineman," "Up, Up and Away," "Galveston," "The Worst That Could Happen," "Didn't We," "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," and "MacArthur Park," is also a fine singer. Webb and the night club's owner, Michael Feinstein, collaborated on Only One Life, an album released in 2003. We especially liked the CD's title track. And speaking of Feinstein's at Loews Regency, Davis Gaines, who played the lead in Phantom of the Opera on Broadway more times than any other actor, just completed a July 26^th and 27^th engagement at the same bistro. For those that have been around here for a while, they may remember that Davis (and, yes, it's Davis, not David) played the lead role in Scrooge, the Christmas-inspired musical by Leslie Bricusse, that had a limited run at the Starbright Theatre in Sun City Summerlin in December of 2003. Feinstein's at Loews Regency is located at 540 Park Avenue at 61st Street in New York City. For ticket reservations and club information, please call (212) 339-4095.

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Marleen Marino, who ran the internet Vegas Community Online site, passed away on Monday, following a brief illness. Marleen would have turned 64 next week. She is survived by her husband, Frank. As we approach deadline, no services have been announced.

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Nelson & Mickey Sardelli

Wayne Newton

Marty Allen & Karon Kate Blackwell

When Nelson Sardelli sang the beautiful "You'll Never Know" (You'll never know just how much I miss you. You'll never know just how much I care. And if I tried, I still couldn't hide my love for you...) as his wife, Fledia "Mickey" Sardelli, departed the F.I.O.R.E. Fifth Anniversary Party a couple of weeks ago, the message was not lost on some of the attendees in the Italian American Club audience (especially two of the ladies). If they picked up on it, this was a touching love song/story. Mickey has not been well for some time. Seeing her out for a couple of hours, under the watchful eye of her and Nelson's daughter, Pietra, was a good thing for many of the party participants, especially, Norman and Barbara Kaye. Norman, a member of the famed Mary Kaye Trio, was the best man at Nelson and Mickey's wedding, 46 years ago.

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A couple of news items particularly caught our attention during this last week.
First was the lead story in a local column of July 26^th, regarding a possible booking of 67-year-old Wayne Newton at the Tropicana (we will refrain from making any obvious or sarcastic comments on this one). According to the article, Mr. Newton had backed out of a deal with the Tropicana, where he had planned to hold his 50th anniversary as a Las Vegas entertainer. According to a "source" (reliable or otherwise), a press conference was already set for August 3^rd, with shows scheduled to kick off on September 3^rd." The item went on to say that Newton had a blockbuster deal in place, with the assistance of local businessman, Jack Wishna, but it fell through this month. "He (Newton) wanted a bigger piece of the pie in the deal and tried to reduce Wishna's stake in the deal," said that unnamed source. The newspaper story goes on to say that "the development comes amid reports that Newton has not been paying bills. Two lawsuits were filed earlier this month, one for non-payment of $32,000 worth of hay for his horses and $36,999 remaining on a lease for a 2005 Escalade. Earlier this year, Newton's wages were garnished to the tune of $91,000 from his MGM Grand paychecks after his former pilot, Monty Ward, won a judgment for more than $450,000 in back wages. Wishna had negotiated Newton's Vegas comeback deal in 1999, when he signed with the Stardust for what was advertised as the richest contract in Las Vegas entertainment history - up to 40 weeks a year for 10 years with the potential of $25 million a year. That deal had an exit option after five years, and Newton took it, saying "the time had come to move on to new challenges." Two immediate thoughts come to mind. Cousin Claire wonders, (1) Why would a onetime Vegas headliner, with so much debt, not take any deal he could get to put himself back on a Strip stage and back in the black? And (2), Newton used an "exit option" from his very lucrative Stardust deal (BRILLIANTLY put together by Mr. Wishna) because "the time had come to move on to new challenges"? Let's get real here. It will be interesting to see how this one turns out. If we were advising the Wayner, we would say, "Take the offer," whatever it is! We don't see any other local hotel owners lining up to book Wayne Newton for either a short term or long term deal.

And on our local NBC news, it was reported that (magician) "Steve Wyrick has sued a pyrotechnics supplier over a fire that broke out during a July 4 performance outside Planet Hollywood on the Las Vegas Strip. The complaint, filed Friday in Clark County District Court, claims Pyritz Pyrotechnics Group LLC is to blame for the blaze that injured a crew member and caused the failure of a high-profile "Death Drop" trick." The line we rolled our eyes over was this one. "The suit alleges breach of contract, negligence and defamation because of damage to Wyrick's reputation." OMG!!! In our opinion, Wyrick's reputation was damaged the minute he opened his mouth on stage at the Lady Luck, during his first Las Vegas engagement in the late 1990s. And if THAT wasn't enough to damage Wyrick's reputation, how about his "claim," in 2005, that he might be the father of the late Anna Nicole Smith's baby, Dannielynn? In more recent years, Steve's role as landlord of the trouble-plagued Wyrick Theater certainly hasn't done anything to un-damage that reputation. One of our loyal readers suggests that Mr. Wyrick's best illusion (although it is no illusion) is making tenants, and therefore audiences, disappear. How many chances does this guy get to operate this theater in a fair and honest way? Let's get Mac King, David Copperfield, Amazing Johnathan, Dixie Dooley, Penn & Teller, Lance Burton, Nathan Burton, Cashetta, Dirk Arthur, Criss Angel, and anyone else with magic powers, together, and see if they can make Mr. Wyrick disappear. Perhaps someone with some integrity can make a success out of the performance space in the Miracle Mile Mall. That place needs nothing short of a REAL miracle.

LATE BREAKING NEWS! Rockstar: The Tribute, the latest entry in the Wyrick revolving-door theater, is finished. If you blinked you missed the fact it was even there. The show was to feature musicians from famous rock bands of the '80s and '90s and front them with incredible tribute artists, and at least one well-known lead singer. And another dream is shattered. The saga continues.

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Comic Marty Allen, and his musical/straight woman wife, Karon Kate Blackwell, are currently doing the Catch a Rising Star circuit, with dates at the Hyatt Regency in Princeton, New Jersey, tonight; the Monticello Raceway in Monticello, New York tomorrow night (Saturday, August 1^st); and the Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township, New Jersey, on Sunday. Don't miss the opportunity to see these two work together. Tickets are available at each venue, or on Catch a Rising Star's Web site.

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Donny & Marie Osmond

Rod Russell

Lee Roy Reams

In addition to Donny and Marie (who have just added a couple of more years on to their Flamingo contract), Charo and Bette Midler on the Thursday morning edition of NBC's Today show, we spotted a couple of other familiar faces on camera - Larry "Hot Chocolate" Edwards in Elvis garb, and hunky actor Nathan Ferrier representing Caesars Palace in his Caesar costume.

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On Sunday, Sarann Knight Preddy was to be honored with a music-filled afternoon show at the South Point Casino. Unfortunately, the show was postponed (postponed sounds so much better than that ugly word, "cancelled") a week before the scheduled event. You say you don't know who Ms. Preddy is? That's why we're here...to tell you about the lady. Sarann, who celebrated her 89^th birthday on July 27^th, was born in the small town of Eufaula, Oklahoma, to Carl and Hattie Childs. Sarann married her first husband, Luther Walker, soon after getting out of high school. In 1942, she and her family moved to Las Vegas, settling in the black community on the Westside. Preddy took her first job at the Cotton Club as a Keno writer, later becoming a dealer. In 1950, Preddy moved to Hawthorne, Nevada, where she was offered the opportunity to purchase her own gambling establishment. She became the first African American woman to own a gaming license in Nevada. Preddy then purchased the Lincoln Bar, which she renamed the Tonga Club. The club was successful in the small booming town, and she operated the establishment until her return to Las Vegas in 1957. Preddy then worked as a dealer until a new ordinance prohibited women from being employed as dealers. During that time, Preddy operated several businesses including a dry cleaner, a dress shop, and a lounge. Once the ordinance was repealed, Preddy returned to work as a dealer at Jerry's Nugget where she remained for seven years. In 1990, Preddy turned her focus to restoring the previous glamour of Las Vegas' first integrated casino; she and her third husband, Joe Preddy, purchased the Moulin Rouge. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to secure the financing needed and eventually sold the Moulin Rouge to a developer. Preddy has made many contributions to the state of Nevada through her involvement in the NAACP. She has worked to preserve the history of the city through her efforts to place the Moulin Rouge on the National Register of Historic Places. Although we don't expect to see this event rescheduled at the South Point anytime soon (or maybe ever), if there is a tribute to Ms. Preddy (who deserves to be acknowledged for her contributions to the community), at least you readers will have some idea of who she is. The program, with tickets selling (or not selling) for $50, $55 and $60, was to feature Phil Flowers, Melanie Moore, Loretta Holloway, and "Chicago's Own, Mr. Lee" as the entertainment.

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One of our favorite musicians, Gary Olds, has snagged himself a real good gig as drummer for the popular Sidro's Armada. Sidro's Armada has been performing in both southern and northern Nevada for about 40 years. We hope to have more about this band, including their schedule and a current photo, within the next few weeks.

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Happy birthday wishes to Leo celebrants, Will Collins, Kevin Spirtas, Rod Russell (who turns the BIG 5-0), Robert Allen, Angelo Tolentino, Sally Porter Coombs, Donna Booth Koger, Toni James, Buddy Greco, Bob Flanigan and Lee Roy Reams.

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In our June 19^th column, when we wrote that Buddy Greco's Dinner Club in Cathedral City, adjacent to Palm Springs, was still up and running, if it was true then, it isn't now. The club, now in its third year of operation, is facing foreclosure. In an article written by Debra Gruszecki, here is some of what was published in the July 24^th issue of The Desert Sun newspaper...
"Jazz legend Buddy Greco received national attention in May when final photographs of actress Marilyn Monroe wound up in an eBay auction. The owner of Buddy Greco's Dinner Club in Cathedral City appeared on CNN's "Situation Room" with Wolf Blitzer to discuss the snapshots that carried a starting bid of $7,500.
That Kodak moment, taken when Greco was performing at Sinatra's Cal Neva lounge in September 1962, fueled speculation the cozy nightclub Greco owned and operated with his wife, singer Lezlie Anders, was in jeopardy. On Wednesday, the notice of default recorded in Riverside County told the tale. Buddy Greco's at 68-791 E. Palm Canyon Drive is in a stage of foreclosure and carries total indebtedness estimated at $790,926, a legal notice said. The trustee's sale is set for Aug. 11. Riverside County property assessment records show the property formerly owned by Walter Lee Williams and operated as the Triangles Restaurant was acquired by the Grecos through a grant deed transaction in August 2005. At the time, a sales price of $535,000 was recorded against the dinner club. Canyon National Bank issued a variable rate loan in the amount of $755,000 to the Palm Desert couple that was recorded July 13, 2006. It is this second mortgage that is the focus of the notice of default. Another $100,000 loan was recorded against the property by the Katrina B. Henrich- Steinberg Living Trust in January 2007, county records show. Anders said lines of credit were taken to carry the restaurant through the harsh summer months and keep 10 families on the payroll. Compounding matters was the hardship imposed when the interest-only provision on the loan ended, Anders said, increasing the mortgage from $4,000 to $6,200 a month. The Grecos just completed a five week working tour of the United Kingdom. Buddy Greco goes into the Rrazz Room in the Nikko Hotel in San Francisco for two shows, on August 18^th and 19^th. Fans of music from the 50s, 60s and the Rat Pack era will recognize Greco as a jazz singer and pianist without peer. He played piano with the Benny Goodman Orchestra before going on to top the charts with "The Lady is a Tramp." Known by his colleagues as a "singer's singer" and a "musician's musician," Buddy Greco has sold more than one million records. He is well-known for releasing songs from every genre, from jazz to country to pop music. He has played every major concert hall in the world and is one of the true legends from the golden era of entertainment. Buddy is still a top performer; perhaps the last from what many consider was the Golden Era of Entertainment.

Buddy Greco

Mark Nadler

Eric O'Shea

And speaking of the Rrazz Room, if you are in the San Francisco area this weekend, you can see the very talented Mark Nadler perform there, through Sunday. Nadler's current show is called...His Lovely Wife, Ira - Ira Gershwin with and without George. The show is being endorsed by Michael Strunsky, the nephew of Ira Gershwin's lovely wife, Leonore, and the head of the Ira and Leonore Gershwin Trust. Michael and his wife, Jean, planned to attend the opening night performance. Here's what some critics have said about ...His Lovely Wife, Ira. "Nadler turns names carved in stone into flesh-and-blood creatures with personalities, passions and quirks... perfect -- poignant." - Stephen Holden, The New York Times. "A chance to see one of cabaret's brightest and most inventive stars in peak form." - Michael Dale, BroadwayWorld.com. "Nadler's infectious verve and ready wit are in abundance... A vivid, enthralling theater piece." - Bettina Paley, BroadwayAfterDark.com. "Mark Nadler, a performer so abundantly and insistently talented... the guy's got the goods." - David Finkle, The Huffington Post. And from Roy Sander of the BistroAwards.com, comes this story on Mr. Nadler (we have not cut a word)..."Writing about Mark Nadler over a decade ago, I labeled him quite possibly the world's greatest entertainer. I did not say that hyperbolically. His ability to command an audience's attention and laughter for hours is on a par with Bette Midler and Victor Borge's. In the realm of singer-pianists, his only peer that I know of is the late Danny Apolinar. But there is another side of his talent, one that is less hilarious and less outrageous, but no less impressive: sensitive, analytic and probing, it is Mark Nadler the serious artist. Though brief glimpses of this artistry shone through even in his most irreverent and madcap evenings, for the most part he kept it under wraps-that is, until recent years. It is on glorious display in his latest show, which honors the work of lyricist Ira Gershwin. Nadler explores Gershwin's relationship with his wife, Lenore, and his brother George ("I belong, I see, to the ranks of the brothers of the great"). Through both narration and musical illustration, he analyzes Gershwin's approach to lyric writing. For example, he traces the evolution of "Long Ago and Far Away," which was Gershwin's biggest hit during his lifetime; Nadler's rendition concludes rapturously. And there is a segment that imagines the development of the classic "Fascinating Rhythm"; clearly Nadler is as inventive as was Gershwin. This is not dry, academic analysis; it is a touching celebration of the art of songwriting-and more fundamentally, of the creative process. And there are many numbers that succeed on a purely musical, emotional, or entertainment level. (Nadler the artist is still Nadler the savvy showman.) From Lady in the Dark, "The Princess of Pure Delight" is a charmer, and a pairing of "The Man That Got Away" and "Words Without Music" is deeply moving. Some years ago, I expressed the opinion that "Someone to Watch Over Me" should not be sung by a man with the pronouns changed from masculine to feminine ("I hope that she turns out to be"). While I still believe this to be generally true, Nadler's rendition is so exquisitely vulnerable that he pulls it off; this is gorgeous work. All in all, this is an important show and a memorable evening."

If you are a Gershwin fan, a fan of piano music and classic songs,, we urge you to see Mr. Nadler perform. The Rrazz Room is located in the Hotel Nikko, at 222 Mason Street, in the City By the Bay. All shows start at 7 p.m. Call (866) 468-3399 for reservations to Buddy Greco and/or Mark Nadler.

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Producer Bob Kephart has lined up three outstanding stand up comedians for the Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel, during the week of August 3-9. Headlining in the Congo Room is, Eric O'Shea, creator of the You Tube hit, "Elmo," along with Tina Giorgi and Kevin Knox. O'Shea also created the wildly received "Commercial Songs for Products," which got more than three million hits on YouTube, and caught the eye, and received rave reviews from film producer, Steven Spielberg. Eric was asked to come to Hollywood for a screen test by Spielberg, which of course he gladly accepted. He will be performing at the, 2009 Creative Emmy Awards show in Hollywood this September. Eric likes his audiences to sit back, relax and let his clean wit and priceless observations take you on the ride of your life. From embarrassing childhood moments to today's frustrating mishaps, O'Shea's high energy show will have you rolling in the aisle with stomach hurting laughter. He travels the world performing his unique comedy, and is a regular on the campus circuit. Eric was voted the 2007 "Campus Activities Magazine Comedy Performer of the Year." Ms. Giorgi is a former High School teacher in Washington D.C., who credits her comedic skills to staying after school with the students in detention. Reviewers call her the, "Comedienne with a brain." Tina relies on a blend of wit and commentary to charm her audiences, which she does perfectly. She was recently featured at the "Las Vegas Comedy Festival," and was a winner of the "Bud Light Fox 5 Comedy Contest." Giorgi competed and got to the finals, in the National Lampoon Comedy Search. Kevin Knox is well known on the comedy circuit as the "Wildman of Comedy." A reviewer from the Boston Globe once referred to Knox's routine as a, "high energy bag of fun." As Kevin bounces across the stage, he is constantly creating new topics to discuss or bring to the attention of the audiences. Showtime for the Comedy Stop, in the Congo Room, at the Sahara Hotel is 9 p.m., seven nights a week. Nevada residents have a special ticket price of $19.95 plus tax and fees (must show Nevada drivers license), with general admission tickets priced at $24.95 plus. For information or to purchase tickets call (702) 737-2515 or www.saharavegas.com.

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