Famed caricaturist Neal Portnoy donates talent and funds to furloughed Las Vegas performers…
Update 7/12/20 – In addition to the wonderful effort that Portnoy Gallery has put forth to assist entertainers in the community, this year it will be hosting a benefit for St. Jude Ranch for Children. The announcement from Dorothy Cannata Portnoy is as follows:
We are excited to announce our Annual Christmas in July event and Raffle Fund Raiser. Limited tickets for social distancing during event and unlimited virtual tickets available. The day will be broken down to 4 sessions each having different raffle prizes and one grand prize at last session including all who bought tickets Pick the group you like best or all. The virtual tickets are set up the same way. Click here for full details. Looking forward to a great day of supporting St Jude’s Ranch for Children.
Donations of household items are also being accepted – you can request a copy of the wish list from Dorothy Cannata Portnoy by clicking here.
UPDATE5/17/20 – Neal Portnoy messaged me to let me know that my oversized mug had been “Portnoyed”, too. The honor is overwhelming…and I’m thrilled that he made the decision to include me in this illustrious collection. You can obtain yours and help the unemployed entertainers of Las Vegas by clicking here.
Hey, my mug is on a mug!
For many entertainers, the benchmarks of success are seeing their name in lights and perhaps, someday, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. But you’ll know that you’ve really made it when your likeness has been “Portnoyed”.
Neal Portnoy is a successful artist who specializes in caricatures (or “cartoon portraits”) of famous performers and sports figures. His Portnoy Gallery in Las Vegas is a veritable shrine to pop culture and the entertainment world. Its centerpiece is the Wall of Honor, a collection of Portnoy’s most revered work.
Once a year, the Gallery holds a red carpet induction ceremony that’s attended by public figures, prominent athletes, celebrities and one very special doggie. Neal’s background as a baseball player and sleight-of-hand entertainer gives him a unique insight that few artists possess. His portraits, most often created with felt markers, capture the dedication of his subjects along with their humor, talent, and charisma.
Working with felt markers is a unique and challenging medium. As Neal explains it:
Markers…unlike oils, unlike acrylics, unlike water colors…is a stain. You can change colors in water colors, acrylics and oils, and kind of put what you want down. But with marker, every line you put down, stays down. If I make a mistake, I make it into something else…’cause every line is an expression.
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When it comes to being charismatic, the Massachusetts native exudes a wonderful degree of warmth and confidence. It’s easy to understand why some of the most powerful names in entertainment have entrusted their images to Neal. From members of the Las Vegas Raiders to Barry Manilow, Freddy Mercury to Aretha Franklin, each work of art is timeless and unforgettable.
My first opportunity to chat with Neal was earlier this year. It was at the Summerlin birthday party of influential power-player Mark Messina, where I shared a table with the artist and his charming wife, former New Yorker Dorothy Cannata Portnoy. During our conversation, Dorothy told me that she is the gallery’s Director. She also tirelessly assists her husband in his efforts to support the local community.
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The Portnoys invited me to their studio to check out Neal’s collection. Alas, a certain pandemic became headlines soon after, placing my visit on a to-do list for when life returns to normal. In the interim, I’ve researched the gallery via websites and social media. There I learned about a heartwarming effort that the couple and Mark Messina have created to assist out-of-work Vegas entertainers.
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As you may recall from last week’s article on the Mondays Dark Live Stream Telethon, the residents of Sin City are unparalleled when it comes to taking care of their own. That’s why Portnoy Gallery has decided to donate 50 percent of sales from Portnoyed.com:
Las Vegas has been hit particularly hard due to quarantines and venue closures. Our entertainers have been among the hardest hit. We would like to give back to the community, by providing our out of work entertainers 50% of proceeds from our current online products. Please browse our store for your favorite Las Vegas entertainer, and together we can help them get through this period.
Up for grabs are 76 uniquely-designed coffee mugs, each featuring a beloved Vegas celebrity. Musicians like the Bronx Wanderers, Niki Scalera, David Tatlock, Mark O’Toole, Michael Shapiro, and Zowie Bowie can join your coffee break, along with comedians Carrot Top, Mike Hammer, and John Di Domenico. Even Messina and my colleagues Gabe Ginsberg, Chet Buchanan and Johnny Katsilometes have their mugs committed to a mug.
To obtain one or more of these uniquely Vegas collectibles (while simultaneously fueling the movement to keep Las Vegas entertainment alive) visit this link. Until the gallery reopens, you can browse and purchase prints of Neal’s creations by clicking HERE.
Portnoy Gallery is located at 1537 W Oakey Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102. Phone 702.685.2929 for more information.
Photos: Neal Portnoy, Dorothy Cannata Portnoy, David Orlov, Dianne Davis, Jonathan Scott
‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’ and ‘Chippendales’ are just two of many Sin City favorites to enjoy under your own roof…
So, you’ve binge-watched every Netflix series and reruns of “FRIENDS” are making you want to hit the “unfriend” button. What’s a quarantined Vegas junkie to do? Well, if you saw yesterday’s article on the Mondays Dark Live Stream Telethon, you know that Sin City is doing its best to make you happy…while keeping its own artistic muscles in shape for an eventual ramp-up.
As efforts to assist furloughed entertainers are underway, you’re undoubtedly going through your own form of Sin City withdrawal. Now you can gather your fellow Vegas fans (following social-distancing guidelines, of course) and organize a virtual party for honest-to-goodness Las Vegas experiences. They’re brought to you by the same people who make your in-person visits so memorable.
Followers of my contributions to Las Vegas Magazine and BestOfVegas.com know that I’ve penned several articles on TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition. This self-guided attraction is the biggest collection of recovered articles in this world. Inside are splendid recreations of the decks, staterooms, cabins and more. Immersive special effects allow you to experience the freezing air, feel the throb of the massive engines, and listen to voices from the past.
TITANIC: The Virtual Experience, is a newly-launched 3-dimensional tour of Luxor‘s 25,000 square foot attraction. It’s accessible on computers, tablets, and mobile devices. The virtual experience is available at two price levels – the Light Version for $5 and the Full Version for $15. Both price levels are accessible for one week and can be renewed at the point of purchase. Options include these benefits:
Light Version – $5
Virtual walkthrough of the 13 galleries inside the 25,000 square feet exhibition
Detailed information and photos of each artifact on display
View what life was like aboard the “Ship of Dreams” through full-scale room re-creations of the Grand Staircase, Promenade Deck, Veranda Café, and more
View the largest piece ever recovered, a 15-ton portion of the Ship’s hull
Learn about conservation and recovery efforts of the artifacts recovered from the ocean floor
Full Version – $15
All offerings of the basic tour experience
Audio tour available in multiple languages
Exclusive video content
Dive Expedition 2010 – Video of artifacts as they are being recovered from the wreck site at the ocean floor
Dive Expedition 2010 – Video of curators on board the recovery ship discussing the artifacts immediately after they were pulled from the ocean floor
Dive Expedition 2010 – Video from Titanic’s wreck site, including underwater footage of the Ship’s bow, stern, vast debris field, and more
Animated timeline of Titanic from the point of striking the iceberg to the sinking
Additional facts and information about Titanic, the wreck site, artifacts, personal stories of her passengers and crew
If you’re looking for something a little less “educational” and a lot more “titillating”, then perhaps you might want to investigate Chippendales@Home, a new interactive virtual experience. Chippendales@Home allows you and your squad to hang out and party with the world-famous hunks live in your own homes.
Chat, flirt, play games, get or give a virtual lap dance – you’ll get to know the Chippendales performers in your own intimate group setting as they host your party making sure your night is special and memorable. Each 30-minute party will feature at least two Chippendales cast members and utilizes the streaming platforms ZOOM, House Party, FaceTime, and Google Hangout.
In addition to Chippendales@Home, the brand has been cranking out online experiences as people are urged to stay inside. Recent digital offerings include at-home workouts with cast members, Instagram Live chats with alumnus of the brand, and light-hearted digital content such as one of its current cast members performing a lap dance for a 12-pack of toilet paper.
As a limited-time thank-you to those who are keeping us safe and healthy, Chippendales is offering Chippendales@Home free to health care workers and first responders. Ticket-holders whose shows were postponed also receive the experience free of charge. For more info or to arrange your own virtual party, visit this link or call 866-CHIPP999.
If you’re a fan of the long-running SUPERNATURAL series on CW Network, you were probably excited for the annual convention at RIO Las Vegas in March. Sadly, the virus was just beginning to spread and some of you might have opted to avoid the crowds and wait for next year’s star-studded gala.
Now in an innovative move, Creation Entertainment has scheduled a virtual SUPERNATURAL convention with the participation of three fan favorites. Beginning Saturday, April 18th and running through Saturday, April 25th, director Richard Speight, Jr. and stars Lisa Berry (Billie) and Ruth Connell (Rowena) will host a series of Q & A sessions, chats, tarot card readings, invocations and more.
What makes this event unique is that a portion of proceeds will go to charities and non-profits like Meals On Wheels, St. Michaels Hospital (Toronto) and Random Acts. For some sessions, participants are asked to pay what they can. Auctions will be held to join in on events designed for a limited number of fans.
To register for the SUPERNATURAL Virtual-Con, click HERE. Participants should create user accounts on the platforms ZOOM and StageIt in advance. Creation Entertainment also brings the official Star Trek Convention to Rio Las Vegas each year.
In addition to these large-scale offerings, there is a wide variety of concerts, intimate performances and live chats being broadcast, as well as the at-home workouts and dance classes I told you about right here.
Bellagio‘s beloved lounge pianist Whitney Phoenix and singer/actress/comedienne wife Marianne LeMoine Phoenix (50 Pounds From Stardom) shared this marvelous evening recently.
Whitney also took to the keyboard for a solo set while Marianne fielded requests from viewers:
The smooth and classy Craig Canter has been giving regular performances from his own virtual lounge that he calls “The Piano Room”:
Westgate‘s favorite crooner Mark O’Toole brought us some big band highlights. He sent video clips and updates from the cruise ship he was “stranded” on for an extended time, hoping for a port to disembark at and return to the States. Combine that with canceled flights and missing luggage, and it’s safe to say that poor Mark endured the kind of adventure that movies are made about.
Despite weeks of madness and uncertainty, Mark took a break from relaxing to assist in beloved artist Neal Portnoy‘s efforts to raise funds for out-of-work performers. Portnoy created a collection of custom mugs, each featuring a local entertainer immortalized in the artist’s unique style. Get yours by clicking here, and check out this extremely funny video:
The marvelous David Goldrake, whose IMAGINARIUM magic production at Tropicana garnered my “Best New Show of 2018”, has been entertaining internet audiences with a series of tricks and lessons:
If you know of any other Vegas virtual experiences, online entertainment or events that you’d like to be added to this article, please leave a comment or email me: Sam@VegasUnfiltered.blog
UPDATE 4/21/20 – The official entertainment line-up was released today and is posted immediately below. Expect even more performers to be added in the days leading up to the event.
“When Vegas goes dark, the Stars come out.” That statement takes on a deeper meaning in our harsh, new reality. Now thanks to the team at Mondays Dark and The Actors Fund, Sin City’s entertainment community will be on the receiving end of founder Mark Shunock‘s charitable organization for the first time.
Mondays Dark variety show at The Space has donated to dozens of charitable organizations since its inception six years ago, raising over one million dollars in total. Every event benefits a different organization/cause and presents a unique theme. Performers from all over the city have gathered on a bi-weekly basis, offering their time and talents. Now they’re the ones in need of assistance.
Perpetually shirtless Colin Cahill will join wife Makenzie Fly for “Mak and the Cheese”
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, all performance venues in Las Vegas have been shut down. Thousands of entertainers, artists and support crew are without work, and very few are receiving temporary compensation to get by. TheActors Fund, best known in Los Angeles and New York City, has partnered with Mondays Dark to help raise money for the Vegas entertainment community during this desperate time.
Mark Shunock and comedian Brad Garrett…
With all of the joy that these special people have given us, along with the pain and sacrifices inherent in their profession, now is the best time to show our appreciation and support. Beginning 5pm PST on April 27th, local and national entertainers will take to the virtual stage. The six-hour event features Brad Garrett, Joey Fatone, Dot Marie Jones,Jon Taffer, Clint Holmes, John DiDomenico, Bucky Heard (The Righteous Brothers), Colin Cahill & Makenzie Fly (aka “Mak and the Cheese“), cast members from Cirque Du Soleil and more.A complete lineup of entertainers for the evening will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Live Stream Telethon will be broadcast free of charge on the Mondays Dark website and all their social platforms. Mondays Dark will donate 100 percent of funds raisedto the local entertainment community through The Actors Fund.
In addition to the telethon, Mondays Dark has been selling the FUCOVID hat, an extremely unique baseball cap to benefit the same effort. So far the project has raised more than $5,000.00 for struggling entertainers. Hats are just $20 and proceeds go to the Mondays Dark Performers Fund – dedicated to helping performers who have been affected by the pandemic. Get yours by following this link.
“President Trump” aka John Di Domenico, tells you how to get yours in this amusing clip:
It’s clear from events of the past decade that when people of Las Vegas are hard-hit, they come together and push back with twice as much force. Sin City will rebound…it may take a long time and there will be tough moments along the way. Please show your appreciation for the people who’ve made our lives so joyful and contribute to this special cause.
Members of the Las Vegas entertainment community seeking assistance are encouraged to visit The Actors Fund website atwww.theactorsfund.org. Those interested in donatingmay visit www.mondaysdark.com. If you’d like to send funds in advance of the telethon, you can do so by clicking on this link.
Photos: Mondays Dark, The Actors Fund, Mark Shunock, The SPACE via Facebook, Vin A., Andrea Dupper, Jim McCoy
Taking a hard and painful look at the Vegas entertainment landscape as Sin City’s quarantine drags on…
As a devoted enthusiast of Sin City entertainment, it pains me to think of the hundreds of gifted performers currently out of work during the pandemic shutdown. Devoted to a volatile industry in which success is never guaranteed, many artists work multiple jobs and/or share living expenses just to get by. Combine this with a lack of adequate health care and spotty unemployment compensation, and it wouldn’t be surprising if many struggling entertainers decide to leave the city…or the industry altogether.
Sadly, there’s a likelihood that numerous residencies and production shows will decide to fold (or have their lifeline unceremoniously yanked) once the ramp-up begins. How this plays out is anyone’s guess, but I’ve been doing my own pondering on what changes lie ahead. Keep in mind that my conclusions aren’t in any way a reflection of quality…or lack thereof. Instead, I’ve considered factors such as pre-virus buzz, operation overhead (costs), post-virus marketability, name recognition, longevity, and brand loyalty.
I might be completely wrong on these predictions or right on the money. Your guess is as good as mine. We won’t know until it actually happens, but here’s my list of shows that might weather the storm. And those that I believe will most certainly blow away.
Very Likely To Return –
David Saxe Productions – the long and colorful list produced by David Saxe amounts to a well-oiled machine. His self-named theater inside Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile Shops and nearby V Theater churn out hits like Vegas! The Show, Zombie Burlesque, V – The Ultimate Variety Show and many more. Saxe is a master of efficiency and knows how to run and market his business. His children will survive just fine.
ABSINTHE – (Update – reopened on October 28th with vastly reduced seating)
Spiegelworld‘s naughty alternative to Cirque du Soleil is an instant hit that would have celebrated its ninth anniversary on April 1st. The bawdy burlesque ABSINTHE has spun off two successful companion productions and shows no sign of slowing down. Relatively low overhead (an outdoor tent, pre-recorded music, and simple props) should help it to last through a sluggish restart (if that’s how things play out, that is).
Other Spiegelworld titlesOPIUM and ATOMIC SALOON SHOWmight not have it so easy. Their out-of-the-way locations inside expensive Cosmopolitan and Venetian/Palazzo might prove to be a bigger challenge in the long run. Cosmo‘s costly parking fees make OPIUM an easy pass for locals, too. (Update 5/19/20 – Cosmopolitan has announced its intentions to discontinue parking fees)
“O” at Bellagio – Despite a mountain of debt that Cirque du Soleil is carrying, it’s unlikely that they’ll allow their highest-profile Vegas production to fold. Since “O” is synonymous with the Bellagio image (just like its outdoor fountains and seasonal conservatory displays) it’s easy to envision the resort taking ownership of the show if it came down to that (Steve Wynn did that with Le Reve). “O” is still a very popular draw despite two decades and thousands of performances. Not my cup of tea, but for many tourists, it’s a must-see.
CELESTIA – my insiders at CELESTIA assure me that the fledgling big-top production is on solid ground. STRAT Hotel Casino has a strong financial stake. which seems to be a common thread in the current make-or-break environment. Four-wallers (independent contractors) will suffer while casino-owned shows are likely to last. It all comes down to money.
Sex Tips For Straight Women from a Gay Man – This is an easy one to envision continuing. An extremely Vegas-y premise, an attractive local cast and very low overhead within an intimate theater setting. What’s not to love?
Solo and Lounge Acts – Our deeply-fractured economy is going to have a ripple effect on both consumers and the products they offer. Returning guests with limited discretionary income will most likely avoid the high-ticket attractions. That’s where one-man/woman shows come to the rescue.
With low overhead and a simple format, solo acts can offer solid entertainment and a retro vibe while passing the savings onto their audiences. Look for returning favorites like Mike Hammer, Murray Sawchuck, Carrot Top, Xavier Mortimer, Jen Kramer and maybe even the once-popular Gordie Brown to shine brighter in the spotlight. I anticipate that bloated, self-serving star vehicles like Criss Angel – Mindfreak Live and Mariah Carey‘s endless residencies will go down in flames, though. Darn.
Expensive mega-residencies could also feel the same heat. Last year people were forking over a grand or more to StubHub for Lady Gaga tickets. Who has that kind of money now? Even though Paula Abdul‘s lip-syncing stomp-fest at the Flamingo couldn’t warrant a $49 price tag last fall, her short-lived residency now seems like a million years ago. Look for a glut of similar shows (like Derek Hough: No Limit), along with the resurgence of intimate lounge acts, to tide us over until the economy…and Vegas…rebounds.
Say Farewell –
Blue Man Group– (Update 6/30/20 The cast of Blue Man Group has been laid off by parent company Cirque du Soleil)
They’re old, tired, and as cliched as the fanny pack strapped around your cargo shorts. The trio of silent weirdos known as Blue Man Group is as annoying as those outdoor escalators that are constantly “under service”. Luxor‘s long-running production returned to the pyramid a few years ago, after more than a decade at Venetian and Monte Carlo. Now they’re in a much smaller venue and it’s easy to forget that they’re still around. Maybe COVID-19 will be the nudge that gets them to squeeze their final Twinkie.
Human Nature (Update – permanent closure announced 6/10/20) –
It really upsets me to have this one on the list, but the Aussie quartet known as Human Nature appears to have been struggling for a while. I’ve been to the show a number of times in the past twelve months, and attendance has been anemic during each and every visit. Their live band has been downsized as a cost-cutting measure and the dancers were given a pink slip before that. They’ve also jettisoned the “Jukebox” format and returned to the Motown sound that put them in the U.S. limelight.
Magic Mike Live (Update – Sahara opening postponed once again to August 2021) –
We can wait even longer for this execrable slop to return….
The movie-inspired male revue received a scathing write-up from me upon its debut (deservedly so). Yet, the man-bashing mess, hosted by a shrill, leather-clad harpy who never shuts her f*cking mouth, somehow managed to become a hit. Still, the closure of Hard Rock Hotel sent the strippers dancers off into the sunset last year.
Audiences were promised a spring relaunch at the newly-rebranded Sahara Hotel, yet an official debut date was never set and tickets have yet to go on sale. The 360-degree format requires a custom-built arena that Sahara didn’t have, so costly construction was required. Alas, an insider told me that the venue’s build-out was halted many weeks before the shutdown, suggesting that the bump-and-grind may actually be over. Today’s visit to the official website reveals that the word “spring” was removed, most likely due to the shutdown. Or are revised negotiations holding things back?
During the interim, MML has gone global with residencies in London, Berlin, Sydney, and Melbourne, so a pricey Vegas space is no longer a top priority for the franchise. Sahara Hotel has yet to prove itself as a hip destination, as demonstrated by the premature shuttering of similar-themed Blanc de Blanc. Combine that with the perpetual postponements of nearby Fontainebleau/The Drew and Resorts World, and things are looking pretty dead for Magic Mike Live.
Cirque du Soleil–
Update 6/30/20 – Cirque du Soleil announced today that they have filed for bankruptcy protection and have eliminated 3,500 jobs…
I know what you’re thinking – “But you just said that “O” was safe?!?!?!?!”. True enough. But in our new reality, Vegas cannot sustain six (already down from eight) of what is basically the same show…especially at $150 and up for decent seats.
According to FinancialPost.com, Cirque owes more that $1.25 billion to creditors. MGM Resorts operates five of their six Vegas shows and is known to brutally slice away expenses wherever and whenever possible. So who gets their trapezes pulled? I’m looking at KA, The Beatles LOVE, and maybe Michael Jackson ONE.
Hanging In The Balance/Probably Safe –
MYSTERE – the longest-running Vegas Cirque show follows its own set of rules since Treasure Island operates separately from MGM Resorts. MYSTERE is smaller in scale and has the lowest ticket prices. The others have massive sets, live musicians, huge casts and expensive automation that requires an entire team of technicians to operate and maintain. SO…..overhead…
Never a critical darling or fan favorite, but this one might not be in real jeopardy. It has many of the advantages that MYSTERE enjoys (smaller cast, intimate venue, lower ticket prices), and has already trimmed back its musicians and singers. But despite the adult-skewing format, ZUMANITY now pales in comparison to raunchy offerings from Spiegelworld. So once again, your guess is as good as mine.
Le Reve – (Update 8/14/20 permanent closure announced)
Wynn‘s signature production was never an out-and-out hit (some still believe it’s part of Cirque du Soleil fifteen years in), but it’s a critical darling and those who know it, love it. Le Reve is also owned by Wynn/Encore, which has deep pockets and an image to protect. When Steve Wynn’s own SHOWSTOPPERS was shuttered, massive shockwaves rippled through the entertainment community. That’s unlikely to happen again.
WOW: The Vegas Spectacular – another budget-friendly production that hung in there despite the competition, WOW could in fact raise its profile and attendance numbers in the months ahead. Room rates at host hotel RIO start at a ridiculously-cheap $10 (plus resort fees/taxes) for the first half of May, so if the city actually opens, expect a pilgrimage to the aging off-Strip resort.
Sister production EXTRAVAGANZA missed its debut date at Bally’s last month and could possibly be in jeopardy. The cast of performers came from Israel and has yet to log a single hour in front of a paying audience. Housing the entire cast during quarantine is no doubt chipping away at the show’s reserves. Whether that could bring WOW down as well involves legalities that aren’t known to me. But from the outside looking in, it’s a pretty grim picture for EXTRAVAGANZA.
What are your thoughts, predictions and opinions? Feel free to add your comments or email me at Sam@VegasUnfiltered.blog.
Vegas performers and influencers share their tips for staying healthy while at home….
A strong body and clear mind both aid in warding off infection. They also help in reducing stress during these tenuous times, Nobody knows for certain how long the quarantine will last, but when restrictions are lifted, the stars of the Strip will need to be in top shape and ready for their first night back.
Vegas locals work hard to make your Vegas visit something worth treasuring. And just like you, they’re facing a lockdown that has not only put them out of work but confined their activities to the home. Spouses MaKenzie Fly (Sex Tips) and Colin Cahill (Atomic Saloon Show) have been working overtime to entertain everyone via their new page Mak and the Cheese. It’s packed with wit, skits and original songs to make you laugh. Here’s a sample:
Some have been sharing their tips to stay in peak physical condition, and you can join them in their quest for optimal health. Whether you’re limited to household objects and portable resistance bands or have a full gym set-up on your patio…get out there, use it and be safe.
Hunter Hobbs with a special message for Vegas Unfiltered readers…
Muscle Up!
The world-famous hardbodies of Chippendales male revue were some of the first on the scene with online fitness tips. Profile recipient Ryan Worley caught the eye of TMZ for a pair of video tutorials that launched the Chippendales series. Using everyday objects like almond-milk jugs, pillows, and staircases, Worley demonstrates how to tighten your glutes and build upper-body strength.
Aided by Justin Timberlake’s “SexyBack”, towering hardbody Pat Tanksi shows how he stays limber and flexible. His handsome canine companion “Geno” donned a trademark collar and bowtie to join his dad for a set of slinky moves. You can expect more helpful videos from the men of Chippendales in the days ahead. Be sure to see the guys in person when Chippendales – The Las Vegas Show returns.
Le Reve – The Dream at Wynn boasts a cast of 60 gorgeous guys and girls. They’re a stunning collection of athletes that dive, flip, sail through the air and dance on water. Muscular lead performer Alexander Stabler is known for his graceful movements, strong legs and world-class gluteal development. Here he keeps “dat ass” firm by performing squats in a driveway, using his partner in place of a squat rack. There’s also a breakdown of Alexander’s cross-fit plan, with weight provided by stone-filled backpacks.
The erotic side of Cirque du Soleil comes to life in ZUMANITY at New York NY. Longtime cast member Wayne Skivington (read his Vegas Unfiltered profile HERE) stays in top condition year-round, whether at the theatre’s training room or in his own home. Here he works up a sweat in the back yard, pounding a sledgehammer onto some concrete.
Westgate‘s Soul of Motown features a five-member cast with lush vocals and nonstop dancing. During the production’s hiatus, vocalist Brandon Godfrey has been featuring his “Quarantine Fitness” regime on Facebook. Regular physical activity keeps his body as tight as the show’s gorgeous harmonies.
Jennifer Romas shares the Westgate Cabaret with Soul of Motown‘s cast. Her successful SEXXY has performed hundreds of shows in the gorgeous space. The production’s creator and star continues to rehearse and will be ready to excite audiences when the doors reopen.
“Men of Sapphire” offers a masculine take on the traditional stripper club bump-and-grind. Their billboards feature Roberto Alejandro Granados, an absurdly handsome accomplished dancer who’s been involved in large-scale productions like Jeff Timmons‘ MEN OF THE STRIP and Chippendales offshoot 53X.
Here, Roberto demonstrates how to keep your abs tight, using the Dual Ab Roller, an easy to use piece of equipment that’s readily available at Amazon.com for under $12. Click HERE to order.
Gunnar Walcavich is a real live “Ivan Drago”. Much like the mountain of muscle from Rocky IV and Creed II, Gunnar aka “The Big Gun” is a boxer of Russian descent. He’s also six feet four inch of power, energy and drive. But unlike the villainous character made famous by actor Dolph Lundgren, this resident of Henderson is kind, caring and funny!
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Now an NFPT-accredited personal trainer, Gunnar hosts online fitness sessions. However, he prefers the one-on-one approach, where he can focus on the “personal” aspects of personal training. He’ll even do personalized visits in your home. Once an overweight young man with a goal to go “from zero to hero”, he’s transformed his own body and can do the same for you.
Here’s what Gunnar has to say about fitness in regards to the COVID-19 situation:
During the pandemic, I know money‘s been tight for people so I’ve been accommodating rates for everyone. They started out at $35 a session, but because of the pandemic I’ve been doing $20 a session. The sessions last anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes and create a very intense HIIT (high intensity interval training).
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to up your game, personal training opens new doors to health, confidence and inner peace. To learn more or arrange an appointment, text Gunnar Walcavich at 608-622-5945 or send an email to walcavich.gunnar4@gmail.com.
All In The Family
We’re always wishing to have more time with our families. Now that it’s here, you can make the most of the situation by having your loved ones join in on your workouts. Adam D. Tucker aka “Vegas McGraw” was recently featured in my Hot Guys of Vegas column. His spot-on impersonation of Tim McGraw draws in fans from around the country. But it’s Adam’s bulging arms and gleaming pecs that earned him a spot in the segment.
Here, Adam uses his son Beau for added weight in a garage workout that’s as fun as it is effective.
Parent/child routines are a great way to establish habits that will last a lifetime. Of course, heading out to the sidewalk for some biking (or a stroll with the wagon) are perfect photo opportunities, too. So enjoy the eye candy and take to the streets (or the yard) to burn off those unwanted calories. Just remember to observe social distancing guidelines to protect yourself and your neighbors.
Musician Haini Wolfgramm is one of the founding members of The JETS, the phenomenal pop group from Tonga that swept the world. The JETS – The ’80s & ’90s Experience is an awesome concert event that you’ll want to enjoy over and over…once it returns to Planet Hollywood‘s V Theater, that is (read my full review HERE).
Haini is a fitness enthusiast who seemingly spends as much time at the gym as he does behind his guitar. Keeping those biceps pumped to the max has become a family experience, thanks to a backyard gym that’s getting everyone into shape and keeping them happy until the quarantine is lifted.
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Wayne Skivington gets a special mention in the “family” category, too. Young son Rowan is quickly following in his father’s footsteps with an athletic prowess that would make teenagers and grown men envious. Follow the Skivington’s father/son workouts on Instagram by clicking HERE.
We are all in this together. Let’s use this time to disconnect from society but reconnect at home. I’m going to be posting some in-home workouts ideas to do with your children. Have fun, it will mean more to them than you might think.
– Wayne Skivington
When a city is overflowing with professional entertainers, it’s not surprising that those who cover the scene can hold their own, too. Greenspun Media publisher Jamal Parker and gorgeous wife Mackenzie Marshall Parker (The Doll Factory) show how the family gets loose with this splendid TikTok dance:
Alberto del Campo is a longtime Sin City resident who’s performed in huge acrobatic productions like Le Reve, KA and now The Beatles LOVE. His two boys Alex and Zach have inherited dad’s athleticism. They’re also members of the LOVE cast.
Here, Alberto gathers his sons along with wife Genevieve for a fun roller-skate workout that they like to do poolside. You might find it to be a bit of a challenge, but for the energetic Del Campos, this is just another day. of fitness fun.
If you’re a newbie to roller blades or could use some help with brushing up on the basics, fear not. The magnetic and talented Del Campo boys have launched their own YouTube channel. Here’s one of their tutorials:
Dance As If Nobody’s Watching
Sure, the beach clubs are dried up for now and the nightspots have gone dark. But when ya gotta dance, ya gotta dance. Party people have been taking to their back yards, front yards, driveways, patios…and even the streets…in order to shake their groove thang.
Endia Abrante of ShowgirlArrivals.com is been streamlining her diet and using an E-Stim ab belt to keep things nice and tight for when the clubs reopen. Recently the entrepreneur/deejay/aerialist/duck rancher strapped on some rollerblades and donned a unicorn-themed onesie to blow off some steam.
Later came the glowsticks and a neon party costume to throw a solo virtual rave. Fortunately, her best friend Dusty Demetria was there to document the invitation-only affair. If you haven’t followed Endia’s outrageous Facebook page, you’re really missing out.
Bad boy Kris Davis is one of those guys who does what he wants when he wants to do it, and the name of the game is “fun”. The beefy host at Golden Nugget‘s Troy Liquor Bar was bitten by the dance bug a long time ago.
A veteran of Vegas male revues, Davis continues to move and groove whenever the mood hits him. A crowded market, the heart of the casino floor, or even the top level of a parking garage…when this big boy wants to dance, feel free to join him. Otherwise, get the heck out of the way.
Relentlessly funny man James Michael aka the Redneck Magician has been posting a series of videos from his parking lot. No doubt the neighbors enjoy watching his antics from behind the protective glass of their windows. And you can catch his roller-disco antics by visiting his Facebook page. Then check out his show when Redneck Comedy Magic returns to The STRAT.
Remote-Access Class Action
Sexy celebrities like THOR’s Chris Hemsworth have been sharing online tips and virtual classes to get your body into superhero condition. In the spirit of giving, most of them are free.
Hi there all, during this period of self isolation and uncertainty, I am offering six weeks of my health and fitness program @Centrfit for FREE! Go to centr.com and sign-up. Centr was founded to make health and happiness accessible to all, and I hope that this will make that access even easier during the current global health crisis. I think now more than ever is when we need to focus on what I believe to be the 3 key pillars to living healthier and happier- movement, nutrition, and mental fitness.
– Chris Hemsworth
Here in Sin City, we’ve got several heroic figures who are donating their time, sharing their talents and generously giving you the shirt off their backs.
Pole-fitness enthusiast Alberto Del Campo (see above) was also featured in my Hot Guys of Vegas column. Since the COVID-19 quarantine went into effect, he’s been offering free online pole fitness classes via his Instagram page. Click HERE to follow Alberto and get in on the action.
Regular attendees to the annual Mr. Olympia Fitness Expo are sure to recognize entrepreneur Tim McComsey. The registered dietician/trainer has been uploading Social Distancing workouts on his YouTube channel. He also offers virtual workouts through Zoom, Skype and FaceTime. Follow this link to visit Tim’s Facebook page and send him a personal message. Sign up for one of his TrymFIT programs, tell Tim that Vegas Unfiltered sent you and you’ll get extra supplements perks!
Dancer/actor George Blick (Sex Tips, Aussie Heat) is a rhinestone cowboy of sorts. The big-city hunk has a little bit of country in him, as he’s an award-winning line dancer. George is gearing up to present a live line-dance class soon. Visit George’s Facebook page to keep posted on when the next one will take place.
You might remember this profile article I wrote on Teresa Van – Trainer to the Stars. Teresa is offering online training courses (for a fee) along with free videos that you call follow along at home. Click HERE to view Teresa’s online information and get started right away.
Makenzie Fly and Colin Cahill are “Mak and the Cheese”…
Makenzie Fly is a respected performer and also a skilled instructor of yoga. Husband Colin Cahill filled me in on what they’re up to in the days ahead:
Kenzie’s teaching live yoga class Monday on Instagram (click here for her page), and probably Facebook too if we can figure out how to stream both simultaneously. When it comes to our exercise for this it’s been primarily bodyweight workouts in the living room, running stairs in our apartment, yoga, and lifting heavy foods from the fridge to our faces. I’ve got those resistance bands you posted about a while back shipping to us currently.
But honestly, it’s been a huge struggle to try to stay active. I’ve definitely been putting on the poundage this past week so we started hitting the workouts hard this week. Our new song “Quarantine 15” more accurately represents our fitness journey since the shutdown.
Makenzie also has a YouTube channel to help you get started in the world of yoga. Here’s the intro to her video series:
For all people curious about yoga! This channel is meant to be a no-excuses platform. Got 5 minutes? Let’s practice. It’s not meant to be perfect. Don’t think, just do. Anytime, any place!
Until very recently, MaKenzie shared the Sex Tips stage with handsome “Hot Guys of Vegas” recipient Shyllon Melatti (read his Vegas Unfiltered profile right HERE). While the actor/singer/dancer/model prepares for a juicy new role (I’m sworn to secrecy) he and his partner have used the quarantine downtime to raise an adorable rescue kitten named “Merlot”.
And while being a pet parent can be physically exhausting at times, it takes more than a sprinkle of catnip to keep Shyllon’s stunning torso in check. You can find out how he does it by joining a live workout on Instagram. The session takes place Saturday 4/11 at 9am PST. The full-body workout requires no equipment and is free. Click HERE to participate.
Be sure to keep plenty of water and a towel handy, because “Master Melatti” knows how to make you sweat.
The stunning acrobatic couple of Mary Wolfe and Tyce Nielsen is professionally known as Duo Transcend. The America’s Got Talent favorites had just signed on to join CELESTIA at The STRAT when COVID-19 rolled into town, shutting down every show on the Strip.
While waiting to finally live their dream of a Vegas gig, Duo Transcend has been hard at work on…working out. They’re teaching live classes via the ZOOM app and have posted 30-minute no-equipment workouts that you can access right here:
If you or any of your Vegas friends are offering online fitness tips or classes, send an email to Sam@VegasUnfiltered.blog and I’ll be sure to update this article with the information. Be smart, be safe, and be strong.
Retro-cool outdoor movie theater provides box-office hits without the need for human contact…
Update 10/5/20 – While indoor movie theaters have struggled in their efforts to reopen, West Wind Las Vegas continues to thrive and offer a safe haven for moviegoers. Portable toilets and outdoor sinks have been installed, guests can order hot food and drinks remotely via a QR code, and an outdoor snack tent has been installed for quick goodies.
All through the month of October, horror movies old and new are being featured, including HALLOWEEN 2018 and THE EVIL DEAD. Check the official website for the latest schedule, prices, and upcoming titles.
13 Nights Of Fright
Join us for 13 Nights of Fright October 19-31, featuring a selection of 100 family-friendly fright or horrifying adult delights! Decorate your car during 13 Nights of Fright and bring it to the drive-in for your chance to win a FREE Year of Movies at West Wind! More details on our blog!
-The drive-in is accessible only to those in vehicles–for movies and A/V presentations only (e.g., worship services). -Vehicles are spaced at least 10 feet apart (every other parking space). -No one may leave their vehicle except to visit the restroom.
-Access to the restroom is limited to 1 person (plus a minor child or a disabled companion) at a time. Restrooms are sanitized every 30 minutes.
-Social distancing signage is in place, and all of these restrictions are provided to drive-in customers upon entry.
-Staffing is kept to a minimum; they oversee vehicle entry and ensure the above rules are followed or else a vehicle is told to leave.
-Masks are required at all times outside of your own vehicle.
Located just a little northwest of downtown near Texas Station and Fiesta Rancho casinos, West Wind Las Vegas 6 is riding a sudden wave of popularity. While many drive-ins are long gone, West Wind continues to be an entertainment success. The modern digital picture is sharper, brighter, and is easily a match for their indoor counterparts. Sound is broadcast through high-quality FM onto your own car speakers, so you can control the volume and “oomph”.
What makes drive-in theaters especially popular right now is that their unique concept (watching movies under the stars) fits right into the coronavirus outbreak’s “social distancing” guidelines. Once you slide your payment through a crack in the car window, you can avoid being in close proximity to other human beings. The only folks you’ll encounter are the ones inside their concession stand building (or if you need to use the restroom).
While indoor theaters charge upwards of $12.00 for a single movie, adult admission to West Wind 6 Drive-in is only $8.00. The titles change every week, with a combination of brand-new releases and holdover hits. Certain screens offer a double-feature of two recent films for the same low price. Children ages 5-11 get in for $2.00, and kids under 5 are free. Tuesdays are even cheaper, with adult tickets costing $5.50. The website offers a newsletter with Internet coupon offers, too.
When global pandemics aren’t the biggest worry of your day, you’ll want to return on a regular basis. An expansion of the outdoor dining and playground areas has added to the drive-in’s appeal. The snack bar offers typical movie-going fare but at noticeably lower prices. And, they’ve upped the fun factor with seasonal activities. During Halloween, the snack bar gets turned into a mini haunted house, complete with staff members in costume. Several times a year, West Wind hosts a Customer Appreciation Night with absolutely free admission, fun, and games.
The main concession building is located in the center of the property. It has a playground and outdoor picnic tables so you can stuff yourself on hot dogs and nachos without missing the movie. Of course, if you want to sneak a peek at one of the other five screens, I won’t tell. They often host special events with pony rides, live entertainment, and a petting zoo.
So, if the quarantine has you suffering from cabin fever, West Wind Drive-in Theater has the cure. Step back in time, look for the lighted arches and classic neon signage. Bring a pillow, wear your pajamas and bunny slippers if you like, and it’s even okay to smoke. And, nobody will scold you if you chat or decide to make out in the back seat.
West Wind Las Vegas Drive-in Theater is open year-round, rain or shine. It’s located at 4150 West Carey Avenue, northwest of downtown. Click HERE for their current movie titles/showtimes or call (702) 646-3565 OR (702) 647-1379 for more information.
Trendy hit adds weekday performances to accommodate capacity crowds…
It’s bold, outrageous and one of those experiences that you just can’t wait to tell your friends at home about. It’s Señor Frog’s DRAG BRUNCH, the wild adults-only hit at Treasure Island. Presented by Voss Events, Drag Brunch is delicious food, shocking comedy, crazy dance numbers, and audience interaction, all served with a heaping helping of sass. And after four successful years, it’s one Sin City production that just keeps growing.
The recent launch of RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! at Flamingo (also by Voss Events) is the latest cherry on that bright, sugary confection known as “drag.” A longtime Vegas institution, female impersonation goes back several decades in legendary shows up and down the Strip. From “Boylesque” at the Silver Slipper Casino to “Frank Marino’s DIVAS” and the current incarnation of Tropicana‘s “LEGENDS IN CONCERT,” drag continues to become more popular with each passing year. It’s also changed with the times and evolved from “fringe” to “mainstream”.
Senor Frog’s DRAG BRUNCH was way ahead of the craze when it launched in 2016. The late-morning experience was already a hit in cutting-edge cities like New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Toronto. But the unpredictable nature of audiences led Drag Brunch Las Vegas to start off slowly with only one scheduled performance per week. Fortunately, capacity crowds resulted in the addition of a second same-day performance, then an expansion to both Saturdays and Sundays.
Now you can channel your inner diva eight times a week as Senor Frog’s DRAG BRUNCH is taking over a few weekdays, too. Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race alumnus “Shannel”, the show features a rotating cast of top-tier talent, many familiar to fans of the hit TV series. Their current performance schedule is Thursday through Sunday at 11:30am and 2:30pm. A large unlimited buffet featuring breakfast favorites, lunchtime selections, and delicious Mexican specialties, is provided by Senor Frog’s Restaurant.
Admission price to DRAG BRUNCH includes seating, show, brunch, and bottomless mimosas. There are upgrade packages for VIP seating, full open bar, and photos with the cast. If you’re a newbie and uncertain about “transitioning” into the world of drag entertainment, an inconspicuous standing-room option at the rear bar ($10) allows you to enjoy the insanity from a “safe” distance. Chances are that once you discover the wonderful world of drag, your concerns will fade away and you’ll soon join in on the fun.
With chart-topping dance hits, classic impersonation and lots of naughty innuendo, Senor Frog’s Drag Brunch is a top-notch smorgasbord of sights and sounds. So grab your friends, leave your inhibitions at the door…and make sure the little ones stay at home.
Click HERE for the latest schedule and to purchase tickets/reservations.
Click HERE to read the BestOfVegas version of this article and buy tickets to these shows and more at sale prices of $59 or less…
Everyone loves a bargain, especially when it comes to stretching your entertainment dollar. Those deals become even better when you know how to get the most bang for your buck. Fortunately, we at BestOfVegas are constantly attending the latest and greatest productions and can help you choose the best shows, all at a discount that will make you say “Cheers!”.
Here are our top five selections in Las Vegas entertainment, each at $59 or less. Reserve your tickets now while sale prices are in effect!
Top Comedy – Carrot Top at Luxor ($49)
Luxor‘s “King of Laughter” has been packing them into the pyramid for over 15 years…with no end in sight. The fuzzy orange funnyman with a penchant for props skewers musicians, pop culture, airline travel and NASCAR fans in a nonstop barrage of gags, guffaws, and sidesplitting characterizations. If you haven’t seen Carrot Top, you’re missing a true Sin City institution. (adult audiences only)
More Comedy Top Choices – John Caparulo’s MAD CAP COMEDY ($51), Mike Hammer Comedy Magic ($30)
Top Family-Friendly – CELESTIA at The STRAT ($40)
CELESTIA may be one of the best bargains in Las Vegas right now. An epic circus of wonders without the lofty prices of its better-known counterparts, CELESTIA presents amazing feats, dancing, and acrobatics under an incredible tent that’s equal parts “old school Big Top” and “hi-tech amazement”. A large cast of talented athletes, physical comedians, and musicians will leave you gasping, laughing and cheering long after the final bows.
More Family-Friendly Top Choices – WOW – The Vegas Spectacular ($49), Popovich Comedy Pet Theater ($39)
Top Adult Production – Atomic Saloon Show at Venetian ($48)
Atomic Saloon Show is the lastest (and maybe greatest) treat from Spiegelworld, the team that brought you ABSINTHE and OPIUM. Set in a wild west brothel overseen by the villainous madame “Boozy Skunkton”, Atomic Saloon Show invites you to a bottle-smashing bar brawl that will have you blushing, laughing and questioning your own powers of sight. To tell you any more might spoil the surprises, but don’t miss this nuclear blast of high-powered fun.
More Adult Production Top Choices – Zombie Burlesque ($49), Sex Tips ($40)
Top Concert – The Bronx Wanderers at Harrah’s ( $59)
The Bronx Wanderers is a family band with a penchant for the music of Jersey Boys, Stray Cats, The Beatles, and Neil Diamond. Their expanding popularity has necessitated moving into ever-larger theaters. Now featured at Harrah’s main showroom, the multi-talented troupe is overseen by patriarch Vinny Adinolfi. Dad’s recording-industry background provides the backdrop for a marvelous collection of hits both classic and current. A must-see production that touches the heart, The Bronx Wanderers will lift you higher and send your soul dancing into the streets.
More Band/Concert Top Choices – Tenors of Rock ($43), The JETS – ’80s and ’90s Experience ($44)
Top Sexy Revue (tie) – Chippendales at Rio ($38), FANTASY at Luxor ($43)
We’ll split this category right down the middle and give both Chippendales and FANTASY our top rating. The daring pair of skin-baring revues is considered to be the gold standard in their class of provocative entertainment. Delivering equal parts titillation, elegance, style, and sass, the one-two punch of Chippendales and FANTASY is all you’ll need to satisfy your thirst for sexy guys or girls. It’s worth mentioning that both genders are equally welcome at these shows, so don’t leave your other half behind…unless that’s part of your plan.
More Sexy Revue Top Choices – Crazy Girls ($45), Australia’s Thunder From Down Under ($50)
For discount tickets to all of these shows and more, follow THIS LINK to BestOfVegas.com
Raucous Vegas-based comedy-adventure series features the antics of AGT’s Daniel Emmet and heartthrob Mark Justice…
What’s more fun than a pair of regular “bros” cutting loose in Las Vegas? The answer lies in Bucket Listin’, a brand new web-based show debuting on YouTube. Bucket Listin’ follows the free-wheeling and unpredictable team of singer Daniel Emmet and actor Mark Justice as they teleport from one Las Vegas adventure to the next…via a retro telephone booth. How do they decide on their latest destination? Well, from picking pre-loaded fortune cookies out of a wooden bucket, of course. Yes, it’s just as crazy as it sounds.
While the premise is certainly outrageous, the strength of Bucket Listin’ lies in the charming personalities of its two hosts and the effusive chemistry they share. Emmet is fresh off a successful stint as a finalist in 2018’s America’s Got Talent. His powerhouse voice has been entertaining audiences at events and concerts all around the country. He’s also been riding a well-deserved wave of stellar reviews for his residency at Cleopatra’s Barge inside Caesars Palace.
Readers of Vegas Unfiltered and its corresponding Facebook page should be quite familiar with my affection for Mark “You probably don’t know me at all” Justice. The handsome and chiseled action star/underwear model bounces around the city like a Price Is Right Plinko chip, landing in places as diverse as Excalibur‘s Tournament of Kings, Fremont Street Experience and last fall’s Halloween event SCARE at Town Square. He’s also a writer/director/producer with over one hundred credits listed on the Internet Movie Database, including a collection of fantasy and horror films shot right in and around Sin City.
Emmet and Justice first released a teaser for Bucket Listin’ on Christmas Eve, when they gathered around the fireplace for a fractured version of “Twas the Night Before Christmas”. It was clear right away that the two were planning on presenting something unusual and quite fun for 2020. The series was officially announced on New Year’s Day (S1E0), then the pilot arrived last week, a whole month earlier than expected.
Apparently, the creative team behind Bucket Listin’ has a fetish for holidays, as the premiere episode (S1E1) is entitled “Valentine’s Day Chocolate Destruction”. All the better to play a cringe-inducing game of chocolate-dipped “Who Knows?”, followed by a trip to Battlefield Vegas for a crushing romantic encounter with a tank.
Subsequent episodes will chronicle the boys’ exploits as they face some of the many extreme adventures that Las Vegas has to offer. From a Grand Canyon experience and high-speed police chase to skydiving and flying a plane, Emmet and Justice are sure to tickle your funnybone and raise adrenaline to maximum levels.
Since I’ve already crossed those challenges and more from my own bucket list, I’m sure the guys are up to the task. They’ll just look way cooler while doing it…and a whole lot funnier. Kids these days…..I tell ya.
Top-rated male revue brings the fun closer than ever at new venue…
Click HERE to read the BestOfVegas version of this article on their awesome site.
They’re fun. They’re flirty. And they’ve never been more within reach. That’s because Aussie Heat, the sizzling hands-on dance revue from Down Under is now delivering their wild, sexy production directly to you…right on the Las Vegas Strip.
Aussie Heat‘s new location is MOSAIC ON THE STRIP, a historic venue directly across from Park MGM Resort‘s EATALY. Formerly known as the Tommy Wind Theater (and Empire Ballroom before that), MOSAIC ON THE STRIP is an entertainment fan’s dream. The lush, classy venue is ushering in its next era with significant modern upgrades thanks to new management.
Easily accessible from both sides of the Strip via a brand new pedestrian overpass, the independently-owned MOSAIC is a departure from the ordinary performance space. MOSAIC offers multi-level seating options to complement a nightclub-style vibe. A full-service bar/lounge welcomes guests before the curtain rises and hosts a free meet-and-greet party after every performance. There’s also a dedicated parking lot for easy in-and-out access.
As former contests of Australia’s Got Talent, the boys of Aussie Heat began their Vegas experience in a humble Downtown production called “Aussie Hunks”. Through the ensuing four-plus years, they’ve had a name change, amped up the excitement and outgrown their previous home at Miracle Mile’sV Theater. With hundreds of steamy performances under their loosened belts, Aussie Heat has deservedly earned great reviews and top rankings on both TripAdvisor and Yelp!.
Host (and show owner) Adam Barr is excited about the next big step in their quest to be Sin City’s top male revue. “The props and sets are better. The costumes are hotter. Our cast has expanded to take advantage of a bigger stage. We’ve added fantastic new acts and even an aerialist or two. And it’s still all about the audience having fun in ways they can’t at other shows. Thunder From Down Under is great, and Chippendales paved the way for this type of production. But we’re the only show of its kind where all of the members began as trained dancers first.”
As an independently-produced show, Aussie Heat has the luxury of specifically tailoring sequences to the talents of individual performers. Muscular six-foot-four stuntman Simon will be featured in an action-packed new movie-themed number. Former castmates from Cirque du Soleil have come aboard to show off their gravity-defying skills. And pop-and-lock king Lennie adds his signature moves to the latest chart-topping hits.
As always, Aussie Heat remains interactive, “hands-on”, and trend-setting in their embracing of male guests…and the LGBTQ community as a whole. Unlike at competing shows, guys are encouraged along with the ladies to participate in onstage games, outrageous group photos, and of course…lap dances.
So brace yourself and hang on for a very wild ride through the outback. As Barr succinctly says with a laugh “If you don’t like attention from male dancers, you just might be at the wrong #%!& show!”.
MOSAIC ON THE STRIP is located at 3765 Las Vegas Blvd. Aussie Heat performs Thursday through Monday at 10pm. Ages 21 and over. Tickets start at $54.99 (plus taxes/fees).
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Everyone loves a bargain, especially when it comes to stretching your entertainment dollar. Those deals become even better when you know how to get the most bang for your buck. Fortunately, we at BestOfVegas are constantly attending the latest and greatest productions and can help you choose the best shows, all at a discount that will make you say “Cheers!”.
VEGAS UNFILTERED 
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