November 2017 – VEGAS UNFILTERED BLOG by Sam Novak

I’m Too Sexy For My…Burger?

Award-winning hunks turned away from Palms poolside cafe…

UPDATE 12/16/17: After sitting down with Cafe 6 management yesterday and numerous emails and back-and-forth phone calls to Stations Casinos marketing, public relations and members of Palms food and beverage dept., my private lunch gathering for Hot Hunks of Vegas has been turned away by the rarely busy Cafe 6 at Palms Place for a second time. This is despite my agreeing to their initial concessions and getting as far as them discussing a final date and time. Make no mistake. Corporations by and large have NO CONCEPT of “Sin City” frivolity whatsoever. The “What Happens In Vegas” slogan is outright bullshit.

Sin City. The name alone suggests wild, outrageous parties, outlandish behavior and sex galore. In most cases, the city delivers on that promise. Mobile billboards offer “Ladies Direct To Your Room”. Puppetry of the Penis is a runaway hit at Erotic Heritage Museum. Porno conventions take over entire resorts. But shirtless guys eating burgers at a poolside cafe? That’s apparently too graphic for one Las Vegas restaurant.

You may be scratching your head and wondering “How could this even be an issue?”. That’s a legitimate question, but don’t get bogged down by the specifics. I’ll elaborate on the details in a moment. Instead, allow yourself to digest this fact: A private luncheon for shirtless Vegas celebs is considered “unacceptable” by Station Casinos…specifically Palms Place.

If you’re a regular reader, you know that I’ve written many columns saluting the Hot Guys of Vegas. Performers, bartenders, a popular celebrity publicist…even a well-known lawyer. Respected, hard-working gentlemen, one and all. They are great sports and have had plenty of fun with my columns.

Out of gratitude, I thought it would be a wacky idea…and make another great article…if I gathered a few past and future recipients of that series for lunch. My group included performers from the likes of Absinthe, WOW – World of Wonder, DIVAS, Men of the Strip, Jubilee and Men of Sapphire. The idea was to allow them to network with one another, take some photographs and share an “only in Vegas” experience with you, the readers.

I invited several guys to revel in gratuitous shirtlessness. They’d arrive sans tops and remain that way for a meal, drinks and laughs….a positive social experiment. Every invited guest agreed to join in on the fun and yours truly would pay the bill. The location would be my favorite casual-dining spot in the city: Cafe 6 at Palms Place.

This awesome, secluded burger joint on the sixth floor of the Palms Place tower is serviced by a dedicated elevator (directly from the parking lot to the cafe entrance). It sits next to a lovely pool and hot tub with only walls of glass separating the swimmers and the diners. The effect is that of eating at the pool deck while remaining indoors.

Entrance to rarely-used private dining room…

Private dining room sat empty on the day I requested to use it…

Another reason for choosing Cafe 6 is that they have a private meeting room immediately to the left of the entrance. My guests would be able to arrive discreetly with only an infinitesimal chance of being spotted by patrons in the main dining area. Nobody who could be potentially offended would be affected. Perfect, right?

I then chose a weekday afternoon in the middle of December, historically the slowest week of the year in Vegas. It’s so slow that many shows shut down and restaurants send their staff on vacation. So you’d think that any restaurant would welcome hundreds of dollars of guaranteed business during those days.

“Lunch rush” on 12/15/17, the day after my proposed event…

With a plan in place, I emailed a known contact at Palms Casino Resort who is involved in food and beverage operations there. I described our gathering, the number of people in our party, our willingness to order from the regular menu and other assorted details along with a few possible dates. For the sake of anonymity, I won’t specifically name anyone involved here.

It never crossed my mind that our lunch party would be denied. After all, Palms was until recently home to the “World’s Largest Hooters”. Because, you know, female breasts sell chicken wings…

Anyway, the person I wrote to copied another individual on their team when replying back. They informed me that they would discuss my request, then they passed it on to a third person in their public relations department for final disposition.

It should be noted that in the follow-up correspondence, our group promised to be respectful and behave discreetly. I even suggested the name of a particular server who is very outgoing and enjoys male eye-candy. Nevertheless, our party was refused with a curt denial:

“Hi Sam, thanks for considering us, at this time we are going to politely pass on the opportunity.”

That was it. No questions, no offer of alternate conditions., no mention of potential code violations..and most importantly, no explanation of any kind. While it’s safe to assume that bare chiseled torsos were the deciding issue here, how can we know for sure? And WHY is a sexy guy forbidden to show his abs in a poolside cafe?

View from inside the main dining room of Cafe 6…

As you might imagine, I found this response to be quite ludicrous. Cafe 6, as I mentioned earlier, is my favorite lunch place in town. I gave it a stellar review in a previous column, chose Cafe 6 as my “Best Vegas Bargain of 2016” and even hosted my most recent birthday party there. So what gives? And should I have even bothered to describe our reason for gathering in the first place?

Luckily, Dave Wahlen, General Manager of Flair Nightclub and the soon-to-open Hamburger Mary’s on Flamingo Avenue, caught wind of this absurd situation and welcomed us with open arms…and shirts.

Sam, I’d love to have them…anytime you want! The city gave us the final approved plans a week ago Tuesday. We have been balls to the walls. We have a night and a day crew working on the kitchen. It has taken nearly 8 months to get this done. Come see us as we love these guys at Mary’s. I miss seeing you buddy. I hope you’re doing well!

And that, dear readers, is how you do good business and promote healthy public relations. I understand that Cafe 6 and Palms Place are undergoing a transition of ownership and management. But their response to a simple request has successfully alienated an entire group of Vegas influentials…and one beef-loving blogger.

Thanks for being such a soggy pile of wet blankets, Palms. Let us know when you’ve removed that stick from up your _____. As for me and my guys, it’s “Next stop…Hamburger Mary’s”!

Photos: Sammasseur, CBS Daytime, KTNV.com, Hamburger Mary’s

Get Sweaty for Christmas with 98 Degrees

Steamy pop group’s holiday tour returns for Vegas fans…

UPDATE: 98 Degrees at Christmas will perform at GREEN VALLEY RANCH on November 17th 2018 at 8pm. Tickets available at all STATION CASINOS or by visiting 98Degrees.com.

As popular boy bands of the 90’s segued into nostalgic “pop groups”, most of them have disbanded or faded into obscurity. Not the hotties of 98 Degrees. As part of the primary 90’s 4-pack (along with N’Sync, Backstreet Boys and NKOTB), 98 Degrees built a ravenous and extremely loyal fan base. Of those groups, only 98D continues to record great new albums and fill arenas. They also manage to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape.

While New Kids and Backstreet have shown love to Vegas from time to time, it’s 98 Degrees that shares a special bond with Sin City. For that you can thank group founder Jeff Timmons, who calls Las Vegas home.

A frequent guest at local functions and on Vegas TV talk shows, the ultra-sexy and ridiculously-fit Timmons is also the chesty front man for Men of the Strip. That’s the male revue which took on a vastly-inferior Magic Mike Live and is currently touring the U.S. and Canada.

Timmons delivered Christmas in July with Men of the Strip at Hard Rock…

But before I get more drool on my keyboard, let’s return to the matter at hand….Christmas! Yes, the four-part harmonies and soulful voices of 98 Degrees are back for their second collection of holiday treasures.

Has it really been eighteen years since this album hit the shelves?

The first, This Christmas, was a certified-platinum hit at the peak of their popularity. Brimming with seasonal standards and three new songs, the album was released on the Motown label in 1999. Fans have been clamoring for a follow-up ever since…and for them, Santa came early this year.

Better hair and clothing, same soulful harmonies…

Let It Snow debuted on October 20th and the ~~boys~~ gentlemen have been quite busy supporting their new album. They launched another nationwide tour along with TV appearances and a glorious performance during last week’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Ever trendy, the guys made sure that Let It Snow will be released on the retro-hip vinyl format (yes, actual freaking VINYL!) on December 1st. Click here to order the LP via Amazon.com. It’ll be great addition to my own collection of treasured holiday records gathered through the years. That postman better be on time….I have plans to get mine autographed.

It’s amazing that 98D‘s four members – Timmons, Justin Jeffre and brothers Nick and Drew Lachey – managed to find time to record a new collection this summer. With Jeff’s Men of the Strip launch in July (read my review here), Nick’s successful stint on Dancing With the Stars, the brothers’ super-popular Lachey’s Sports Bar in Cincinnati and Jeffre’s political activities….well, the logistics must have been staggering.

This isn’t the first time that 98D found themselves riding a new wave of popularity. In 2013 they released 2.0, their first studio album since 2000. They followed that with The Package Tour, a multi-group effort with Boyz II Men and NKOTB.

Now they’re back for phase three and closing out 2017 with a final stop in Las Vegas. 98 Degrees at Christmas will sleigh-ride into the area on Saturday December 23. Star of the Desert Arena in Primm Nevada will host the final performance of the tour. This awesome venue is a short drive south of Las Vegas and a world away from the madness.

The 6,500-seat arena is located at Buffalo Bill’s Hotel Casino in Primm. If you’re concerned about leaving the city limits for an evening, don’t be. Primm Valley Casino Resorts has three hotels serving the venue with hundreds of newly-renovated rooms. Rates start at $59 plus taxes/fees for the night of the event.

So why not venture beyond the Strip for a different kind of fun? Turn up the heat and get sweaty on the eve of Christmas Eve with the guys of 98 Degrees. I hope to see you there.

“98 Degrees at Christmas” performs Saturday December 23rd at 8 pm. Tickets start at $20 plus taxes/fees up to a $149 VIP experience with meet/greet. Click here to order.

Photos: Sammasseur, 98 Degrees via Facebook, Jeff Timmons via Facebook, Amazon.com

“Drag Brunch” at Treasure Island is a Bold, Giddy Blast

Señor Frog’s Wakes You Up With Breakfast Burritos, Mimosas…and Drag Queens?

These days, the opportunities to say “Only in Vegas” are getting harder to come by. The lions have left MGM Grand. The volcano at Mirage rarely erupts these days. Bowling with “glamazons” at Drink and Drag Lounge has faded into memory. But there’s an activity in Sin City that you most likely can’t do at home. It’s Señor Frog’s Drag Brunch at Treasure Island.

When I first heard about Treasure Island’s Drag Brunch, I didn’t think much of it. This writer has covered many weekly mixed-crowd events that quickly “petered” out (no pun intended). But during my weekend mornings at home in Oregon, I noticed plenty of Vegas friends tagging themselves and checking in at the Brunch on the official Facebook page.

Would this be the one that actually catches on? Chances were pretty high, as the concept had already been the rage at Señor Frog’s locations in Miami, New York City, and Fire Island Pines.

Then I started getting a Groupon offer that was very tempting. Buffet, unlimited mimosas and a show for $45.00? I was already a fan of Señor Frog’s menu and wacky atmosphere. Throw in some seasoned RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants (like CoCo Montrese, Desree St. James, Kahanna Montrese and India Ferrah) dishing out racy comedy and hit songs onstage and throughout the venue…and this makes for one heck of a deal.

There’s also a VIP option with two-hour premium open bar and preferred seating. Prices are higher at the official site, which also lists a standing-room show-only option with cash bar for $10. I was told by an insider that the Groupon deal will be extended indefinitely, so that’s the way to go.

As luck would have it, I was just about to purchase my Groupon when I got an official invitation to review the brunch. Despite a whirlwind schedule, I accepted and arrived early enough to take some photos…and get an early jump on the ~~mimosas~~ best seats.

The venue on the second floor of Senor Frog’s overlooks the Strip (and lagoon for the former Sirens of T.I. show, another lost attraction) and has a dedicated bar and DJ booth. Most tables are large and “family style”, so you may make a friend or two before the show begins.

If you’ve never attended a female-impersonation show before, this is the perfect opportunity to lose your gender-bender virginity. Drag entertainment has been around for centuries, going as far back as ancient Rome. Even Frank Marino’s DIVAS Las Vegas has been running on the Strip (in one form or another) for over 30 years.

If you’re feeling a little insecure, the basic admission package includes unlimited mimosas. There’s also a cash bar staffed by muscular masculine bartenders. That should help to loosen your inhibitions and prepare you for the wild ride ahead.

The Vegas version of Drag Brunch is emceed by Shannel (Bryan Watkins), whom you may have seen at Divas Las Vegas, 53X at Paris or Piranha Nightclub. Shannel has lightning-fast wit, amazing skill as a female impersonator and just enough gravitas to act as house mom to hold the younger “girls” slightly in check.

Drag Brunch host “Shannel” will elevate your idea of drag queens….

The jokes flew fast and furious, as did the wigs, lips and elaborate costumes. A cast of four performers covered the entire floor with outrageous dance numbers, wonderful spontaneity and laughs galore.

Be aware that drag shows are extremely interactive. You may find yourself as part of a comical moment, dance number or group toast. Almost anything can happen here, but that’s why you come to Vegas, right? (BTW, it’s traditional at drag shows to wave some tip money at the performers, so you might want to have some singles ready).

Since this review originally appeared on another site, I’ve attended Drag Brunch on numerous weekends and consistently have a great time. It’s a great choice for bachelor/bachelorette parties, anniversaries and any special occasion. They even hosted my birthday party this year, as you can see below.

If you want to return home with your own “Waking Up In Vegas” tale, this is the one that you want to tell. Senor Frog’s Drag Brunch is a smash hit. Bring your appetite, a camera…and a sense of adventure. But leave your stuffy, uptight friends behind.

Senor Frog’s Drag Brunch is held every Thursday through Sunday at Treasure Island Hotel Casino. Seating times are 11:30am and 2pm. Ages 21 and over. Prices range from $10 entry-only cash bar to $79.95 VIP including open bar and photo with cast. Group rates available. Discount admission via Groupon starting at $45 via this link.

This review previously appeared on another site. It has been updated with current information and photos.

Photos: Sammasseur, Toshia Marvin, Drag Brunch

Wishing You The Happiest Thanksgiving

Warmest wishes and gratitude for being a friend…and a reader….

I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you who have followed me here from other sites…or found my writings on your own. As we come up on nearly a half-year of reviews, news and eye candy galore, the thrill of bringing you new and updated articles becomes more and more enjoyable.

Have an excellent holiday season and please keep returning. Vegas Unfiltered will continue to grow, evolve and become more attractive in the coming weeks and months ahead. Just like you!

Best wishes from Sammasseur…

Hot Guys of Vegas: Heartbreakers and Dream Makers

Get a little closer with guys who sweep you off your feet, sometimes literally…

Last time in this series I took you to the world of bodybuilders…those superhuman, rock-hard specimens of manliness that gym-bunnies aspire to emulate. This month it’s time to get comfy with the kind of men who make your dreams and fantasies come true. From Prince Charming types to men behind the desk and behind the scenes, these are the Hot Guys of Vegas: Heartbreakers and Dream Makers.

Alexander Stabler – dancer/aerialist/stylist

Alexander Stabler

Where you’ve seen him – Le Reve The Dream at Wynn

Alexander Stabler (banner photo above) is one of those guys who looks like they stepped out of the cover of a romance novel. Strapping frame, carefully-mussed hair, billowing open shirt and a stature that says “hero”, Alexander will sweep you off your feet as the hearththrob of Le Reve – The Dream.

Once part of the troupe of ballroom dancers that glided into and out of the water spectacular, Alexander is now front and center at the core of Wynn‘s signature production. As his role has increased, so has Alexander’s visibility throughout the city. From charity fundraisers to a boat on Lake Mead to hiking the rocky cliffs with his dog Samson, you never know where you’ll find this real-life Prince Charming.

Not content to just lie in the sun, this Newport Beach native has dabbled in many varied projects throughout the city. His Axle Entertainment provided hot visuals for Liaison Nightclub and his studies through Paul Mitchell make him a well-respected stylist. Alex was a principal dancer at Luminario Ballet of Los Angeles and is a former cast member of Zumanity by Cirque du Soleil. No wonder he’s a hot commodity on the stage.

Years of living in Macau and Hong Kong gave Alexander a unique humanitarian view that belies his young age. Although this avid traveler has been around the world, Alexander Stabler is now proud to call Las Vegas his home.

Noteworthy traits – “ballet boo-tay”, heroic man-rack

Eric Roy – attorney

Attorney Eric Roy

Where you’ve seen him – billboards, television, community events

Sometimes a guy is so absurdly handsome that he can stop traffic. When you see advertisements featuring Attorney Eric Roy, you’ll know precisely what I mean. If Eric wasn’t such an all-around good guy, I’d be tempted to accuse this personal-injury attorney of deliberately causing traffic accidents. Have you seen his stunning billboards? But personal injuries aren’t the only cases he handles, so I guess the Twin Falls, Idaho native has a solid alibi.

Some people dislike attorneys in the same way that used-car salesmen get no respect. Eric Roy Esq. has been able to avoid that stigma by becoming a beloved member of the Las Vegas community (not to mention the recipient of numerous awards for achievement in his field). He’s a favorite at speaking engagements and on television segments, offering helpful legal advice to people across the Las Vegas Valley.

Attorney Roy is tireless in his devotion to charities and advocacy for organizations that promote social positivity. From volunteering for Goodie Two Shoes Foundation, which provides shoes and socks for underprivileged youngsters…to sponsoring a girl’s soccer team…to delivering food for income-strapped locals via Hopelink of Southern Nevada, Eric never passes on an opportunity to help out those in need.

Of course, all work and no play would make Eric a very dull boy. So in his free time, this white-collar hunk is an avid traveler who likes to ditch the suit and tie for rugged hiking and mountain biking. Doggies Big Boy and Lil Girl and lady-love Elizabeth keep him grounded…as does some obviously well-spent time in the gym.

Noteworthy traits – matinee-idol looks, action-hero physique

Michael Caprio – publicist/marketing/management/media design

Michael Caprio

Where you’ve seen him – premieres, fundraisers, celebrity functions

The term “mover and shaker” was probably coined after Michael Caprio. Very little happens in Sin City entertainment without his involvement in one form or another. This master of Public Relations is a favorite of high-profile celebrities across the country.

Las Vegas has Michael to thank for the triumphant residency of Olivia Newton-John at Flamingo. It was he who brought Richard Marx to the same hotel for a landmark series of performances this summer. And Michael is the Big Daddy behind the world-famous Chippendales. There’s also Leeza Gibbons, Jon Secada, John Tesh and Melody Sweets of Absinthe in his portfolio, if you don’t mind a little name-dropping.

Recently, the founder of Caprio Media Design has been traveling across the country for promotional appearances with Aussie group Human Nature (be sure to attend their annual holiday show at Venetian). And he’s also been behind the successful launch of the new WOW – World of Wonder at the Rio (see my review here).

Fans of the Sharknado movie franchise have benefited from Michael’s expertise. He represents star Ian Ziering and was responsible for the huge premiere party at Stratosphere last summer for entry #4 in the wildly-successful series. No doubt their collaboration on those films yielded two successful guest-hosting stints of Ziering at Chippendales as well.

Each year, Caprio flies to Australia to join Olivia Newton-John for her annual ONJ Wellness Walk and Research Run. The event is dear to his heart and he crusades to raise funds for the ONJ Cancer Wellness and Research Center. Olivia’s recent second bout with the disease made the trip even more poignant this year.

Michael is constantly flying from Vegas to Los Angeles to New York City, so it’s rare that he gets to settle down with hubby Randy Slovacek and their adorable dogs for a quiet evening at home. But when they do, Michael’s culinary expertise yields some gloriously beautiful gourmet dishes.

Michael and hubby Randy

Notable traits – infectious grin, mile-long eye lashes, grace under pressure

Adam Barabáš – dancer/acrobat

Adam Barabáš

Where you’ve seen him – Divas, Jubilee!, WOW – World of Wonder

The next dancer on our list is Adam Barabáš. If Adam’s profile photo looks a little (actually a lot) like Aquaman, the resemblance has served him well. This native of Slovakia is currently dancing on water in Rio‘s aquatic spectacular WOW – World of Wonder.

Adam takes flight in WOW – World of Wonder…

Despite being only 27 years old, Adam may have already made some Las Vegas history. He’s the only performer to my knowledge to have ever been in two major re-enactments of the sinking of Titanic.

First he played double-duty in Jubilee!, donning a tuxedo for the ballroom sequence before quick-changing into a shirtless laborer for the engine room scene. Now he gets to do it again, five nights a week, in WOW‘s high-tech variation on the dreaded event. How’s that for a little trivia?

This graduate of The Private Conservatory of Arts in Nitra, Slovakia also appears regularly in Frank Marino’s DIVAS at Linq Hotel. Part of their sexy troupe of dancer boys, Adam provides back-up for the likenesses of Cher, Pink, Madonna and Celine Dion.

Being a cast member in two major productions doesn’t leave much time for leisure, especially when Barabáš has that chiseled body to maintain. He’ll hit one of the various Las Vegas Athletic Clubs around the valley for his workouts. If time is very tight he’ll even go through his fitness routines at the theaters between shows…or use his own home gym.

Spending the day with Chipp at Red Rock Canyon…

When the great outdoors calls, Adam takes his four-footed pal Chipp for a round of fetch. Sometimes it’s hiking at Red Rock Canyon or Mt. Charleston. Growing up in the small village of Dubnica nad Váhom (population 26,000) gave Adam few opportunities for luxuries. Now that he calls Las Vegas his home, he enjoys the comforts of a great meal…and a day at the spa to soothe those amazing, hard-working muscles.

Noteworthy traits – abs of steel, European mystique

Mike Hammer – magician/comedian/emcee

Mike Hammer

Where you’ve seen him – self-titled comedy/magic show at Four Queens

Somewhere in Chicago, a retired school teacher is wondering “What ever happened to that class clown Michael Hammer?”. Well, I’d bet he or she would be surprised to know that little Mikey grew up…and became the biggest and best entertainer in Downtown Las Vegas.

“A boy’s best friend is his mother” – Norman Bates

Mike Hammer can be seen onstage five nights a week at Mike Hammer Comedy Magic, a fast-paced gas that will have you returning time and again. His hyperkinetic energy, lightning-fast improvisations and dazzling illusions make Mike a standout on the entertainment scene.

Offering fashion advice to Robin Leach at a charity event…

Naturally, this quick-witted guy is known for charitable functions (are we seeing a pattern here?). Hammer has hosted numerous events for other organizations when not preparing for his own. Just a few weeks ago, Mike and his famous friends came together for the 3rd Annual Mike Hammer Celebrity Go Kart Race to benefit Wounded Warrior Project. This year, proceeds were shared with Las Vegas Victims’ Fund.

Sharing fitness tips with Chippendales performer Ryan Worley…

The success of Mike’s own show gave him the clout to produce a second one at Four Queens. Spirit of the King, starring Elvis tribute artist Steve Connolly, draws in a line of fans that stretches across the casino floor each evening. Then there are the TV appearances, emceeing MMA matches, corporate events, and his own weekly radio program The Vegas Take with Brian Shapiro.

Keeping such a busy schedule was starting to wear the Hammer down – he was literally forgetting to eat. After getting way too thin, the over-40 sports enthusiast decided to consult a nutritionist for a personalized program, then combined it with intense late-night workouts. He quickly began to fill out his slender frame. “I don’t actually look different in my suit”, he said “but I have more muscle. Getting there!”.

Notable traits – sarcasm, hair of epic proportions, chiseled cheekbones

Photos: Ashley Kacvinsky, Ashley Kemp, Michael Caprio via Facebook, Eric Roy via Facebook, John Ganun, Patrick Rivera, Luis Raphael, Adam Barabáš via Facebook, Mike Hammer via Facebook. Banner photo courtesy of Armando Farfan Jr.

“WOW” is Wet Outlandish Whimsy on a Grand Scale

Rio’s water-themed production salutes the heyday of Vegas variety….

If you’ve read my show reviews and columns through the years, you’re probably aware that I’m not a fan of the direction the Vegas entertainment has headed. You know the kind I mean…manufactured talents clogging up enormous venues with their auto-tune warbling. Has-been “divas” sleep-walking and lip-syncing through high-ticket residencies for an enormous paycheck. So-called “celebrity DJs” with their creepy mugshot-style billboards peppering the main roads of the city. It’s all garbage!

Sorry, folks, but Vegas was built on the backs of real talent. If you don’t know or don’t remember what that is, you can check out the amazing musical BAZ at Palazzo, where singers can dance and dancers can sing. And they combine their complex roles with superb acting, offering wide-spectrum talent from every member of the cast.

In recent years, an assortment of variety shows have sprung up that remind us of the glorious era of Vegas. Dancers, singers, circus acts and comics zipping on and off the stage in a constant barrage of whimsy to thrill and dazzle. WOW – World of Wonder is the latest of these, and it’s definitely on my list of must-see-again thrills.

WOW is a rare commodity on the Sin City entertainment scene. It dares to be simultaneously silly, chaotic, retro and modern while offering high-tech amazement. WOW wears its randomness on its sleeve, starting here and jumping over there. You never know who will be coming onto the stage, creeping up behind you, descending from the ceiling or rising from the depths.

If some of that sounds a bit like Le Reve, you’re right. There are plenty of moments in WOW that resemble Wynn’s signature production, along with Absinthe, Mystere, Vegas! The Show and the sadly-defunct Vegas Nocturne at Cosmopolitan’s Rose.Rabbit.Lie. I offer those comparisons as compliments, as all have been personal favorites.

What differs with WOW is in the presentation, starting with the venue. Rio‘s refurbished Crown Theater will definitely elicit a “wow” from your lips. Not necessarily from the seating arrangements (which are a bit dated and not-quite-lush) but from the main stage and panoramic video panels, which are absolutely gorgeous and impeccably utilized.

Dazzling moving images of waterfalls and intensely-colored landscapes resemble Wonder Woman’s “Paradise Island” and Ariel’s undersea kingdom. Atmospheric sound design adds to the effect, creating significant anticipation for the show to begin.

The thin plot line involves a nerdy fisherman, badgered by a harpy’s voice into catching something for dinner. Hunkering down in his yellow slicker, he casts his line into the water. Of course, his baited hook is just there to grab the audience and take them on a journey to the fantastic.

What follows is a hodgepodge of circus acts, peculiar talents, humorous bits and large-scale production numbers. Some are familiar, like the skating act from Absinthe and V – The Ultimate Variety Show. Others offer talents you’ve surely never seen before.

That in itself would work just fine…if the individual acts didn’t play to drastically different age groups. For instance, a sexy sequence with three lovelies swimming inside a clear glass bowl (similar to Zumanity but without the toplessness) is geared toward adults. But it’s preceded by a lengthy Pirates of the Caribbean spoof that’s best appreciated by children.

WOW follows the classic set-up of having smaller acts draw your attention while the big set pieces are setting up behind a curtain on the main stage. One moment an Italian chef is spinning plates on the streets of old Venice.

The next, a hot-bodied group of dancers is strutting their sexy stuff to popular and classic music. Just wait until you see the salute to Singing In The Rain, wherein the raindrops actually form the shape of umbrellas. Clever!

All of it is superbly done and most is highly enjoyable…and really, really random. But that’s what’s great about variety shows, especially in our era of short attention spans. As they say about San Francisco weather, if you don’t like what’s happening, just wait a moment.

Perhaps that’s why Riviera’s SPLASH and Bally’s JUBILEE!, a pair of Vegas classics, lasted for decades. The format also allows for frequent refreshing, so each visit is sure to yield a unique experience.

The epic production numbers were my favorite aspect of WOW, especially a jaw-dropping ballroom scene aboard the Titanic. Your entire field of vision is filled with the ship’s interior, rising waves seen through the windows and a cast of dancers that is suddenly engulfed in the deluge. This obvious nod to the legendary sequence in JUBILEE! takes the experience much, much farther. Hold onto your life preserver!

My least favorite act involves Guinness World Record holder Dickson Oppong of West Africa. This large fellow has the unique ability to guzzle huge amounts of water, then spray it as continuous stream from his mouth. Although fascinating, it’s also a bit disturbing. Germ-aphobes may wish to avoid sitting in the splash zone.

More entertaining is a bit involving statues who become fountains too…in a funny, clever way. The gag builds layers of whimsy until it segues into another a trio of swimmers. I’d have like to have seen the statues go on a bit longer first.

Sadly, the comic-relief character that opens the show has solo moments that go on way too long. He also gets worked into too many of the other acts. Mostly wordless, his child-like bits involving a clap-along and a series of boo-boos make for excellent bathroom breaks. But he’s still more entertaining than the creepy, annoying clowns of O.

Some acts would be more at home in a traveling circus but don’t necessarily translate well to an evening Vegas production. Perhaps the fact that WOW comes from overseas (Israel, in fact) helps to explain why it feels so offbeat. The weirdness isn’t the same as Cirque du Soleil‘s French humor…nor is it as annoying. But a little fine-tuning for Vegas audiences might do WOW a whole lot of good.

I also had issues with some clumsy sound cues and abrupt changes in volume that distracted from the performances of a uniformly excellent cast. As the show is relatively new (it opened just last month), things like this should eventually be worked out.

But that’s a small complaint when compared to the scale of talent and visuals represented here. The 30-member international cast is beautiful and overflowing with skill. And they have one goal in mind – to leave you saying “WOW”.

The success of any variety production depends largely on whether you’re drawn into the premise. WOW succeeds in capturing your imagination. It grabs you from the opening moments, twirls you around, lifts you up and doesn’t let go until the final bows.

It’s classic Vegas variety entertainment on a grand scale.

WOW – World of Wonder performs Tuesday through Sunday at 7pm with an additional 9pm show Friday-Sunday. Tickets start at $49 (plus taxes/fees) and can be ordered here. Travelzoo currently has discount tickets from $39 with no additional taxes/fees. Click here to access this offer, good through 1/7/18.

Photos: Diane Lynn, Sammasseur

Palace Station Rises Rapidly From The Rails

The frequently-overlooked locals hotel is climbing to the sky…and back into relevance…

Sure, sure….all the north Strip talk continues to center around Resorts World. And whether Fontainebleau will ever open. And if SLS will have its name restored to Sahara….or totally close. Nobody talks about Lucky Dragon anymore, because….ZZZZzzzzz…..

But if you peek over the interstate, just a stone’s throw from the legendary Golden Steer Steakhouse, you might see a little action worth paying attention to. That’s because the scene of OJ’s crime (no, the other one) is getting a lot more than a fresh coat of paint. Palace Station on West Sahara Avenue is getting an infusion of some big bucks…and a brand spanking new hotel tower.

The train is pulling into the Station with a few more sleeping cars…

If you’re an infrequent visitor to Sin City, you might not even be familiar with Station Casinos. The railroad-themed chain has destinations sprinkled throughout the valley, carrying such catchy names as Sante Fe Station, Sunset Station, Boulder Station, Texas Station. And of course Palace Station, the original and very first stop on the line.

Locals casinos such as this are usually pretty low on the luxury stylings, offering great value and lots of casual entertainment and food selections. In more recent years, the chain has gone upscale and shaved away the choo-choo theming, erecting more modern palaces (sorry, couldn’t resist) like Green Valley Ranch and Red Rock Casino.

Not all of them succeeded (bye bye, Aliante ~~Station~~) but the ones that did raised their profile, and apparently their bottom line, allowing for the acquisition of Palms Casino in 2016. Now they’re looking backwards and refreshing those themed resorts of the past.

How do they do that, exactly? Well, in the case of Palace Station, it’s so long railroad theme. And the removal of outdated motel-style “Courtyard Rooms”. In their place is a new 27-story, 600-room hotel tower, rising from the ground at a pretty epic pace (take that, Resorts World). Those will be in addition to the existing 576 rooms and suites.

Above photos taken on September 2nd, 2017

With a new porte cochere already in operation for arriving guests, updating taking is place inside as well (new Bingo Room and restaurants, modernized look and an impending re-do of the lowest-priced buffet anywhere). There will be a new multi-screen theater coming with the expansion.

While all that construction activity may not currently be the best atmosphere for a stay, you might want to check things out once construction is completed (nobody enjoys the sound of jackhammers with one going on in our heads already – thanks, Mr. Bartender).

Pics from October 22nd, 2017 demonstrate the speedy progress being made…

With conventions being the future hot ticket for Vegas, it isn’t surprising that Palace Station is erecting a new meeting space as well. Again, they’re way ahead of the announced expansion of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority aka the Vegas Convention Center. Those plans flattened my beloved Riviera Hotel more than a year ago, with nary the slightest evidence of new construction activity. Not even a hammer.

It will be several years before Resorts World greets its first guest, so enjoy all those photos of construction cranes on other sites. In the meantime, I’ll be marking my calendar for a stay at the reborn Palace Station.

The project is slated for completion in late 2018. But don’t be surprised if they beat that deadline by a wide margin. All aboard!

Photos courtesy of Greg C.

Anne Martinez Can’t Slow Down To Be “The Next Big Thing”

Meet a talent who’s equally at home in Gatsby’s world and Alice’s Wonderland…

Some performers set their sights on Las Vegas and dream of one day ruling the stage. Anne Martinez must have missed that memo about “someday”. You see, she came to Sin City four years ago and immediately began her Vegas reign.

You may not know Anne Martinez by name, but chances are that you’ve seen her perform at least once..and heard her glorious voice rattling the rafters. From Luxor‘s sexy Fantasy to Steve Wynn’s classy ShowStoppers. Dripping with blood at Zombie Burlesque or adorned with dazzling jewels in BAZ – A Musical Mash-up. There’s seemingly nothing that Anne cannot do.

Anne and her husband John Martinez came to Vegas in 2013. John’s expertise in rigging and scuba diving made him a perfect fit for Cirque du Soleil‘s water production “O”. While hubby was getting his feet wet at Bellagio, Anne was putting her own skills into play on various stages…while simultaneously working with a team of gifted colleagues to establish her own production company. BBR, like Anne, quickly made a name for itself with the genre-bending Alice: A Steampunk Concert Fantasy (more on that in a bit).

Despite her short time in the city, Anne dove headfirst into a wide variety of gigs, charitable functions and community events. Belting out hits at House of Blues Music Forward Foundation, joining Mondays Dark to benefit AFAN, singing the National Anthem during March Madness, saluting Amy Winehouse at Brooklyn Bowl‘s The Setlist late-night concert series…the list truly is endless.

Earning a BFA in acting no doubt explains Anne’s ability to step into a wide variety of song styles and characters, but her Masters of Fine Arts degree in Theatre Practice (aka show creation) is how Alice: A Steampunk Concert Fantasy sprang to life. Taking the darker elements of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice In Wonderland” and weaving them into a hard-rocking opera set in a retro-futuristic sci-fi world, Alice is sheer brilliance. Even Tim Burton didn’t try something so audacious for his interpretation.

Anne credits a great deal of Alice‘s success to other ambitious young artists like Jeffrey DeBarathy, Adolfo Barreto, Lora Kelsey, Ashley Fuller, Claudia Mitria, April Leopardi and co-director Ryan Kelsey. Having such a gifted ensemble almost guaranteed a show unlike anything Vegas had ever seen.

Naturally, Martinez wanted to see her baby become a resident production. Having outgrown its early days at Hard Rock Hotel‘s Vinyl, Alice quickly became the must-see monthly event at Brooklyn Bowl…for locals and tourists alike. Even when the show was on hiatus last summer, she re-assembled the cast for a one-off at Las Vegas Pride.

Since then, Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Casino has become the permanent home for Alice. One Monday each month, the cast gathers for another epic performance. Their next show date is November 13th with guest performance by Cirque du Soleil artist Michelle DiTerlizzi as the Red Queen.

Last year, Anne joined the team at For The Record Live, the innovative Los Angeles troupe that created musical mash-ups from the films of Quentin Tarentino, Martin Scorcese, John Hughes…and Baz Lurhman. For The Record extended their arm into Las Vegas the previous year, teaming up with Cirque du Soleil‘s theatrical division to bring BAZ to Mandalay Bay’s Light Nightclub. Anne has since been featured in multiple roles for the newly-renamed BAZ – A Musical Mash-up.

Compounding the challenge of short preparation time was the fact that her predecessors have gone on to major high-profile productions. Returning BAZ star Ruby Lewis finished her Daisy run at Light before the titular role in Broadway’s Paramour. Last fall, Joanna Alexis Jones left Palazzo Theater‘s production for the NBC broadcast of Hairspray Live. Her abrupt departure required Martinez to step into the star-making character.

Despite being an understudy for only a few short weeks, Anne’s version of Daisy was nothing short of breathtaking. She subsequently took on the lead role of “Satine”, made famous by Nicole Kidman in the film Moulin Rouge:

As if her schedule wasn’t already busy enough, Anne currently does double-duty as one half of the duo HEART in Stratosphere’s World’s Greatest Rock Show. She literally finishes her BAZ performance at Palazzo and high-tails it down the Strip to roar onstage and belt out high-powered anthems like this:

Before a performance of BAZ, I sat down with this dynamo outside of the Palazzo Theater to talk about her background, her inspirations, and of course, plans for her future in Las Vegas.

When asked what it felt like to join For The Record‘s innovative, genre-busting, star-making troupe, the Rochester NY native had this to say:

I think For the Record is a brilliant company that has only just begun on their road to amazing success! They have a keen sense of entertainment and are completely fearless in their journey of storytelling. It’s incredible to be a part of and magical to watch.

Despite the difficulties that entertainment productions aced in Sin City during 2016 (over 30 closures), Anne is optimistic that quality shows will continue to thrive on Las Vegas stages:

I think Vegas is an ever-changing amoeba that will always take us by surprise. As artists, we are always working toward entertaining our patrons and how exactly to do that. Experimentation is the key to growing as an artist and as a business. Keeping an open mind and trying new things will allow projects to grow and flourish. As new generations come forward, we can (hopefully) create entertainment that they will enjoy!

When asked how challenging it was to join an established cast then quickly step into a central role, Anne seemed grateful and confident at the same time:

My primary talent is willingness to learn. Everything can always be improved as a performer…but you have to be willing to jump. I love music with meaning. Listening to QUEEN and the BEATLES as a child really informed the sense of using music to speak…to color…to paint with your musicality….to speak your truth or to find the truth in others.

Martinez confided that coming down from the show each night is a bit difficult. The emotional energy required to take on a production like BAZ is also evident in her personal life and passions:

I love NSPCA. I have rescue cats myself and it breaks my heart to think they were hurt in the past. Adopting a pet or donating to NSPCA can save so many lives of innocent animals. I also have a yearly holiday show for Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth. There are so many teens and children in need of protection, education and opportunity.

Every year, pianist Kenny Davidsen and I gather numerous vocalists in Las Vegas who donate their talents for a night of music. Our next one is December 19th at Tuscany Resort. It’s so important to remember that everyone deserves a chance.

The morning after the recent shooting tragedy in Vegas, Anne and husband John were the first people I saw on social media delivering food, water and assistance to first responders operating out of the Las Vegas Convention Center. They were broadcasting live via Facebook and urging people to come down and do the same.

Later that month, she and her fellow castmates formed “Team BAZ” for last month’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the largest such event dedicated to fighting that dreaded disease.

Just this past Sunday (November 5th), Anne appeared with many other entertainers at Venetian Hotel for the Vegas Cares Benefit Concert to support both victims of and first responders to the tragedy.

It’s clear that Anne Martinez has truly found happiness in the city she calls home. Her love for its people is as strong as the passion she delivers in her performances. I look forward to many more hours of enjoying this boundless talent in darkened theaters throughout Las Vegas.

BAZ – A Musical Mash-up performs Tuesday through Saturday at 7pm at Palazzo Theater. Tickets start at $65 and can be ordered by clicking here.

World’s Greatest Rock Show performs Tuesday through Sunday at 9pm at Stratosphere. Tickets tickets start at $73 and are available here.

ALICE: A Steampunk Concert Fantasy performs one Monday each month at Rocks Lounge inside Red Rock Resort. Tickets are $25 and can be ordered here.

This article previously appeared elsewhere in another version. It has been updated with new information.

Photos: Jake Klein, Patrick Rivera, Elaine Wilkinson, Richard Brusky, Bill Hiltz, BBR and Anne Martinez via Facebook. Videos by Sammasseur

Hearts Alive Village: An Animal Sanctuary Built On Hope

Visiting a shelter for special-needs cats and dogs…

She’s sophisticated, regal and just a tad bit aloof. Watching the world from her crow’s nest inside of Hearts Alive Village‘s “Cat Cottage”, Sadie (pictured above) is one of the rescue’s longest residents. A former feral who was part of a colony that was in a desperate situation when its caregiver died, Sadie and her companions were trapped and brought to Hearts Alive Village in April of 2014.

There Sadie remains, hoping to someday find a forever home as she looks out the window at the people who pass by…or stop in for a visit. She continues to make strides with her socialization skills, despite a harsh outdoor life, as she journeys towards happiness.

Sadie projects the character of a lady who’s seen plenty of adventure in her years. All of the other cats from Sadie’s colony have found permanent homes except for her and an FIV-positive senior named Tuffy. Perhaps she’s used up a couple of her nine lives, but Sadie’s face says “I could tell you a number of amazing stories…if you’d bring me home and listen to my tale”.

Every animal at Hearts Alive Village has a story to tell. Most of them would start off with the wide-eyed innocence of puppy or kitten life, then take a sad turn to abandonment…or injury…or illness. Often these factors come together until the pets are at serious risk of being euthanized at the valley’s local shelters.

That’s where Hearts Alive Village comes in. This all-volunteer organization (except for one veterinary professional who works part time) came together to assist animals facing the threat of “being lost in the shelter system”.

Hearts Alive Village sprang from a concept by Christy Stevens, President and Founder of HAVLV. Wishing became reality when her daughter Kendall expressed a classroom desire to aid needy animals. Turning that dream into an actual, functioning organization was no easy task. Then again, projects that arise from a desire to make a difference rarely are.

It has indeed taken a village to make Hearts Alive the effective organization that it has become. Countless volunteers and agencies have donated their time, money, living spaces, emotions and tears to rescuing and providing homes and supplies for these needy pets…and the loving humans who parent and foster them.

Since coming together in 2013, the dedicated troupe:

– Saved over 700 dogs and cats from being lost in the shelter system.
– Feeds as many as 300 pets in low income homes each month.
– Assisted more than 200 community animals with training, medical assistance, spay and neuter…and more.
– Taught more than 500 children how to be responsible pet owners, approach animals safely and be kind to all living creatures.
– Became a Best Friends Animal Society network partner

I first learned about Hearts Alive Village while reviewing Richard Marx’s show at the Flamingo. Seated at our table was Sheryl Greenblatt, Communications Director for HAVLV. Casual conversation turned toward love of animals, and Sheryl told me about her involvement with Hearts Alive. I promised to visit in the near future and did so last week.

At the beginning, HAVLV focused their efforts on finding foster homes…and permanent homes…for exceptional-need animals. I learned recently that my friend Lisa Watson, who has a veterinary background, currently fosters for them. She shared a heartwarming rescue story she is involved in, centered around a misunderstood pit bull with time running out:

I found out about Hearts Alive when I saw a plea on FB about a pit bull in L.A., Bella, who was on the list to be put down. Bella had spent the majority of her life in a shelter, adopted and returned 5 times. Some said she was bad with kids, others say she was aggressive.

There’s a program that puts dogs who are at shelters with a foster family for a week during the Fourth of July, since this is when most shelters reach max capacity due to dogs being scared and they get lost.

So a friend of Hearts Alive fostered Bella during that time. When she was returned to the shelter she was put on the kill list. Her previous foster mom sent out a plea for help because Bella is the kindest most gentle dog she had ever met.

Cera Ward takes Bella on her “freedom ride”…

My family was just finishing up fostering a round of kittens and thought it was time for a dog to foster. Turns out that my best friend Cera Ward was in L. A. and rushed to save Bella. She drove 5 hours back to Vegas and we’ve had her ever since. She was seen at Legacy Animal Hospital, who welcomed her with open arms.

Hearts Alive provides all food and medical to the foster family and we provide a stable home environment that makes them easier to adopt out once they’re ready. It really does take a village to make all of this possible.

– Lisa Watson, a Hearts Alive Village foster parent…

In the days before becoming an actual shelter, the volunteers of Hearts Alive did everything they could to find homes for pets….and assist those who were surrendering theirs to shelters. Sheryl told me how she would stand across the street from a local Humane Society, stopping people to offer Solutions Over Surrenders, asking what it would take for them to reconsider giving up their pets.

Sometimes all it took was something as simple as a crate if the animal was wetting in the home. Or maybe they needed pet food or medical treatments they couldn’t afford. Luckily, we receive donations and could offer help to these people. In the end, they never wanted to give up their pets. They were making desperate decisions in desperate times.

The back room of Hearts Alive Village’s retail store and adoption center is well-stocked with quality foods, toys, carriers and crates. Dubbed Kendall’s Kupboard after Christy’s daughter, the beautifully-organized area stores donations of all kinds. They are then funneled back into the community, assisting families who love their pets but are of limited means to provide for them.

Speaking of the store and adoption center, it’s a great place to visit when the excitement and indulgences of Vegas are wearing you down. The Cat Cottage is a wonderfully comfortable and clean room where you can relax or study while the kitties visit with you. The serene atmosphere is therapeutic…without the cost of a spa.

All of the Cat Cottage residents are up for adoption, too. My heart was stolen by the wonderful Squeek, whom I fell in love with on my visit. Squeek has been a resident since early 2015. You read that correctly…unadopted for two and a half years. Fortunately, Squeek is healthy, safe and loved by everyone…especially those who can charm this fiercely independent heart-breaker.

Squeek has been waiting for a home for two and a half years…

I’ve been told that Squeek can have an unpredictable personality, but she was on her best behavior that Saturday afternoon. If you’d like to see about adopting Squeek or any of the cats and dogs at Hearts Alive Village, come down to meet them or call (702) 870-0065 to find out more.

The adoption center is also a store that offers a wide variety of quality pet products, food and treats. Christy told me that their prices are the lowest you’ll find anywhere. Plus, there is no sales tax since the not-for-profit proceeds are used to fund the charity’s operations. The center is located at 1750 S Rainbow Blvd #4 between Sahara Avenue and West Charleston Blvd.

Along with active pet adoptions through their own location and pet stores, Hearts Alive Village does plenty of community outreach. Sheryl and Christy go to schools to teach children about animal care, have appeared on news and entertainment programs, and spearhead programs to assist veterans, seniors and the homeless with their pets.

If this wasn’t enough, there is The Village, an actual house that serves as a residential treatment program for especially-frightened cats and senior dogs.

We’ve rented a house that gives us the opportunity to provide a home environment when a volunteer foster home is not available. The cats who spend time at The Village aren’t ready for the Cat Cottage. They need some extra home time to become a little less fearful of people and find their true confident selves. Just because you’re a “scare-dy cat” doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a chance to become a treasured family member.

Hearts Alive Village recently assisted two injured dogs that were hurricane evacuees from Houston. Despite the generous assistance of Legacy Animal Hospital, treatment for just those two animals wiped through most of their reserve funds. But Hearts Alive Village continues to soldier forward with their mission, offering hope for animals when others would give up.

If you’re interested in becoming involved, donating to this wonderful organization or supporting their fundraising activities, there are many ways of doing so. This week, Defending the Caveman at Downtown’s The D Hotel is helping restore that depleted account by donating a portion of ticket sales to HAVLV. Follow this link and use the code “Hearts Alive” when purchasing tickets for any performance through November 11th.

That’s just one of the events that HAVLV has in store. Next month they’ll be celebrating at the fourth annual Monday’s Dark Anniversary Party. The Mondays Dark series donated proceeds from last March’s performance to Hearts Alive Village. Ms. Greenblatt said it was wonderful to receive the check and be able to pay a large portion of the shelter’s ever-rising medical expenses.

Mondays Dark Fourth Anniversary Party will be at Hard Rock Hotel on December 18th. Tickets range from $20 to $50 and can be purchased directly at Hearts Alive Village so they receive additional proceeds from the event.

To keep informed of upcoming fundraising events, check out the official Hearts Alive Village Facebook page. And if you’d like to make a monetary donation, please click here. Any amount will help to provide food, medical care and shelter for special-needs dogs and cats.

More than anything else, Hearts Alive Village exists to provide loving, permanent homes for animals in need. Click here for information on adoption policies (yes, there are rules to assure that animals are safely placed) or to fill out an online adoption application.

Hearts Alive Village Adoption Center and Pet Supplies is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. It is located at 1750 South Rainbow Blvd, Unit # 4 Las Vegas

Photos: Sammasseur, Hearts Alive Village via Facebook

Male Revues from a Gay P.O.V. – Part 2

More info on where to go and what to expect from a gay guy’s perspective…

A few weeks back I explored the various resident male revues, ranking them in terms of their inclusion of audience members who are guys. It was, I think, a pretty thorough guidebook, but not entirely complete. At the end, I promised to contact two long-running stripper clubs that included male revues in their entertainment roster.

Since publishing that original piece, I have reached out several times to the powers that be at Kings of Hustler and Men of Sapphire. Both expressed interest in participating in this article, yet neither provided responses to a series of questions I sent their way. Numerous follow-up attempts yielded nada, so I’m just going to let that go.

I can say, however, that both locations permit attendance by men. Your level of interactivity will vary depending on the individual performers…and perhaps the degree of business they have that night (everyone has bills to pay and lap dances aren’t free). Also, since I was a guest at both places, I’m unable to provide admission prices.

Another unresolved matter was my review of the upstart Black Magic Live. Unseen by me when Part 1 of this series was published, I wish that had remained the case. Black Magic Live is an absolute mess and I cannot recommend it at all. While not a mega-flop on the level of Magic Mike Live, it is indeed a cheap, chaotic disaster unworthy of your time and money.

Because nothing says “Sexy Night in Vegas” like a wedding hall…

Black Magic Live began its run at the Tommy Wind Theater, otherwise known as the place where shows go to die. It quickly moved to Ron Decar Events Center, a banquet hall belonging to Viva Las Vegas wedding chapel.

You may find yourself wanting to look away, too…

BML is now on its third venue for calendar year 2017. As of this month, the show is performing inside the little known Embassy Night Club in a skeevy industrial area past the west side of the Strip. The Latino spot was in the news this past April when three patrons were stabbed in the parking lot. Stay away!

I’ve also revisited both Chippendales and Aussie Heat at V Theater since the last article. The boys at Chipps continue to be the glossiest cast in town, but not much has changed aside from the completion of Tyson Beckford‘s hosting stint (…or is he back? The website still lists him). That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as Chippendales set the bar for all male revues.

Aussie Heat, on the other hand, seems to have ramped up their willingness to entertain guests of both (all?) genders. Along with an infectious silliness and sense of fun, the lesser-known troupe from Oz (not to be confused with the always-coasting Thunder From Down Under) continues to bend over backward for each and every audience member.

And like the stripper clubs, they offer a free party bus to get you there and some of the lowest ticket prices in town. Groupon is currently offering $49 general admission seats for Aussie Heat with no additional fees. Compare that to Magic Mike Live, where the farthest seats of the upper balcony will still run you over $120.00.

You may remember that I chose Aussie Heat as my #1 male revue for inclusion of all audience members. As you can see, the response is overwhelmingly positive:

Check out this clip below for a taste of Aussie Heat, recorded Saturday 10/28/17. Be aware that it is probably NSFW.

So there you have it, my most complete guide to male revue residencies for guys. Whichever one you choose, be sure to cut loose and have some fun.

After all, Sin City can’t do any sinning without you.

Photos: Sammasseur, Black Magic Live, Aussie Heat, Men of Sapphire, Kings of Hustler