LGBTQ – VEGAS UNFILTERED BLOG by Sam Novak

Las Vegas To Host PRIDE XR – The World’s First Hybrid Pride Event

All eyes will turn to sin city for a groundbreaking new virtual reality/live LGBTQ experience

Remember last summer when we were all going batshit crazy with cabin fever thanks to a certain virus? Well, the brilliant minds at Fresh Wata Creative decided to host events outside of their home base at 3905 W. Diablo Drive (near Allegiant Stadium). Topless revues, drag shows, comedy acts and more drew crowds of locals and visitors alike And just like that, Dreamland Drive-In was born.

Fast forward twelve months, and now Fresh Wata‘s interior has been transformed into StarBase, a hybrid event center for in-person and virtual-reality functions. Born out of the entertainment needs of a deeply-changed society, StarBase is fully equipped with high tech, ten rooms of excitement and a team that’s ready to welcome revelers to our new reality.

StarBase’s creators believe hybrid events are the future for companies and brands post-pandemic and wanted to give event planners a turn-key solution by booking the event space. In hosting your conference or party at StarBase, you have the option to live stream content out to Facebook, Twitch or into the StarBase building.

There are many firsts at StarBase from the first NFT gallery in Las Vegas, to being the first fully operable hybrid event venue in the world featuring a digital twin in Microsoft’s Altspacevr called StarBaseXR. Attendees can meet at StarBase physically and virtually. StarBase XR is a world presented by a group of developers and professional producers at Fresh Wata, to replicate the venue as a 360 environment online.

StarBase XR can be visited in virtual reality from a headset, like an Oculus 2, or a Mac computer or PC. In other words, the venue is not limited to the physical location in Las Vegas and in general the team believes the sky is not the limit! Engagements will be held virtually inside StarBase XR for those unable to visit in person.

This weekend, Pride XR will lift off from the StarBase launching pad. PrideXR is the world’s first live/VR global LGBTQ Pride event:

StarBase and Dreamland presents PrideXR, the world’s first hybrid live/virtual reality Pride event on June 25 and 26, presented by Bud Light Seltzer and InterPride, a nonprofit dedicated to producing Pride parades, marches, festivals and events.

Revelers can celebrate two ways – through a custom-built virtual reality world via VR headset, or in person. Hosted on social platform AltspaceVR, the VR world features a full Pride experience with a dance floor, red carpet, vendors, hologram DJs, charity auctions and a PrideXR parade.

Friday, June 25 at 7 p.m. – Failed to Render Comedy Show

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Stand-up comedians from Failed to Render, the first-ever hybrid comedy show, will take the stage in real life for the first time while simulcasting their show in VR. Following the show, DJ Celeste and DJ Skye will perform at the after party, along with live performances by Puerto Rican trap artist DAmire MAjor and more. Tickets are $35 and include a complimentary drink. Click here to order. Table and bottle service also available for the live show.

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Saturday, June 26 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. – Starfire Saturday

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Edie from Faaabulous! The Show will host the hottest LGBTQ+ dance party in the galaxy, featuring hybrid live/virtual reality performances by DAmire MAjor, Kristine Mirelle, Vanessa Lynnae, DJ Celeste, DJ Skye, DJ Aravi and DJ Luke Dice, along with surprise guest appearances throughout the night.

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Tickets give you general access to all PrideXR events at StarBase on Saturday, June 26th, featuring the world’s first hybrid live/virtual reality nightclub experience presented by Bud Light Seltzer. With dazzling out-of-this-world performances hosted by Edie from ZUMANITY, and special celebrity guest appearances all night.

Tickets are $39.05 and include a complimentary drink. Vegas Unfiltered readers can get $20 off by using code “sam20“. Click here to purchase tickets. Bottle service available first come first serve or book in advance via email at info@dreamlandxr.com. StarBase is located at 3905 W. Diablo Drive in Las Vegas, near Allegiant Stadium.

HOT GUYS OF VEGAS – Danny Wilkinson Grows in ‘The Garden’

From Hard-bodied Scholar To beefcake Bartender, a Las Vegas Resident Learns To Roll With The Punches…

Even if you’ve never seen the 1983 film FLASHDANCE, you certainly know the premise: “Welder by day, exotic dancer by night”. It seems as though there are plenty of scenarios like that in Las Vegas. This year, COVID-19’s destructive path has shifted career goals, altered destinies, and destroyed lifelong dreams. But it has also allowed resourceful people to excel at things they’d never considered before.

One such survivor is Las Vegas resident Danny Wilkinson. This resilient 31-year-old learned the hard way that personal growth is no longer an option but a necessity. That’s how the Mesa, AZ native found himself as a staffer at The Garden, Las Vegas Art District‘s newest sensation.

It’s unlikely that Danny ever expected that his career path would lead him behind the bar of an LGBTQ hotspot. With an MBA from Western Governors University and a BS in kinesiology, he had worked his way through the ranks of Amazon.com‘s local distribution center to become a mid-level manager.

Alas, cost-cutting at the wildly-successful online retailer led to some pre-COVID layoffs (ironic now in hindsight). Sadly, Wilkinson was part of a group that got their pink slips. So what’s a straight, educated hunk to do for employment during a pandemic? Well, you take the advice of friends who suggest marketing your impressive physique to the local gay bars.

When nightlife wizard Eduardo Cordova announced a casting call for “model servers” and “model bartenders”, Danny showed up to The Garden with a winning smile and gym credentials in hand (or under his shirt, in this case). Asked why he wanted to work at The Garden, Wilkinson candidly answered “My gay friends think I’m cute!”.

If you remember my article on “Men of the Garden“, you’ll notice that Danny wasn’t included. He’s not quite as “showy” as some of the other boys. He’s more likely to kindle a slow burn…one that gets hotter upon return visits. Clever, observant, and genuine, he leaves a lasting impression with casual conversation and a laser-sharp gaze. Mandatory facial coverings can’t conceal that radiant smile, either.

It took a long time for this article to come to fruition. Several months into the idea, Danny and I finally sat down for drinks and to talk about it. What I learned was that to survive in “new Las Vegas”, Danny rolled with the punches, was receptive to daring ideas, and still manages to have fun in a demanding new position.

Your social media pictures depict a guy with a wacky sense of humor, yet you come across as really conservative when at work. Who’s the real Danny Wilkinson? Hhhmmm…. I’m definitely a fun loving guy that always wants to make people laugh and ensure that they’re having a good time, as well as have a good time myself.

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What came first…the big muscles or Amazon.com? Hahaha! The muscles did! As the second youngest of seven kids, I was always trying to compete with my siblings. Naturally I wanted to be better at something than they were, which proved to be extremely difficult because they’re all very talented.

When did you start cross-fit training, and how does it fit into your daily routine? Man… I started doing cross-fit seven years ago, if I remember correctly. Exercise/working out has done a lot for me mentally, as well as physically, so I try to make sure I get in the gym or work out at least once a day. Or at least do something active every day of the week!

Where did you go, pre-pandemic, for fun in Las Vegas? I really enjoy drinking coffee and trying new breweries in town. So definitely going to coffee shops and checking out new ones in town and all the local breweries. Oh, and definitely checking out new restaurants…I’m a self proclaimed foodie that loves sweets.

Favorite restaurant in Las Vegas – This is tough. I love food…. bbbbuuuutttt I’m going to have to go with Tacos & Beer or Bajamar Seafood & Tacos just by the Arts District!

Are you more of a night owl or a day-dreamer? I’m honestly like a reversible shirt… definitely adaptable to every situation. But I’d say that I do enjoy the day and being in the sun. I’m a child of the sun!

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This is my boy Gabe. He is a lethal white Australian Shepard. He is 4.5 and I got him from A Home 4 Spot, a rescue here in Vegas. Gabe is literally my best bud!

You just lost a bet and you have to do something embarrassing in front of a crowd. Will you do a sexy dance or sing a romantic song? Oh wow… well I’m absolutely terrible at both, but I’m going to say that my voice is way worse than my dance moves. So a sexy dance it is!

You just won a vacation and your choice is Alaska, Hawaii, or Miami? Which one…and what would be the first thing you do when you got there? Oh man! I’m going to Hawaii! First thing I’m doing is looking at booking a sky diving jump and a swim with the whale sharks! That’s on my bucket list to do both of those in the same day!!

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Do you have a favorite charity or social cause? I’d say anything that can benefit kids and can offer them more resources, or ability to participate in sports.

People would be surprised to know that you __ are a huge nerd. I really enjoy reading, subject matter is usually self-development, and I geek out on computer stuff. I don’t play many, or any video games, but building computers and seeing how people push the performance limits of them is pretty cool!

You’re going to be locked in a room for three days and can only eat one type of food. What are you taking in with you? Oh this is too easy! I’m bringing all the fixings for a peanut butter and jelly hahaha! Yes, I do eat them quite regularly!

Hollywood is about to make a movie on your life. You get to choose the actor playing Danny Wilkinson. The actor is definitely going to be whoever the sexiest leading male actor is at the time! Hahaha, I’m kidding… or am I?! The real actor would be… seriously though, I think Jensen Ackles (SUPERNATURAL) would be a good fit!

Favorite big-screen movie – Ooohhhh, that’s a tough one, too!!! I really enjoy going to the movies! It’s a bit nostalgic for me as I frequently went to the movies with my father growing up… but I’d say… THE CONJURING 2.

Is this the first time you’ve worked at a gay bar? How do you deal with flirting? The Garden is the first time I’ve worked at a gay bar. And usually I’ll laugh it off awkwardly, strictly because I’m a bit awkward. But most recently, I just flirt right back, haha.

The Garden launches a sexy new themed night and bartenders are required to work shirtless. Your response is A) Do I really have to? B) Hell, yeah, I can finally show what I’m made of, or C) Whatever…I’m easygoing – I would say that I’m a mix of B and C. You know, we gotta be comfortable showing the guests what they want to see!

The Garden Las Vegas is located at 1017 S. 1st St Suite 180, Las Vegas, NV 89101. It is open Thursday through Sunday from 6pm to 1am. Call 702-202-0900 or visit their website to make reservati0ns.

Hamburger Mary’s Is Ready To Serve Up Some Prime Beef…and Quirky Charm

Category-defying burger spot plans grand return to the Vegas scene…

Vegas is big on burgers. Every major resort has at least one gourmet hamburger restaurant. Even celebrity chefs like Bobby Flay and Gordon Ramsay have gotten in on the act. Then there are the bargain places like In-N-Out and Checkers that almost always seem to be busy.

Yet one burger palace that Sin City conspicuously lacks is a Hamburger Mary’s. The freewheeling, no-holds-barred fun spot that celebrates quirky culture in so many progressive cities has been absent from Las Vegas for quite some time (2006 to be exact). But now Mary is set to make a grand return to the valley in a new location.

The former Hamburger Mary’s on Harmon Avenue…

Once situated on the corner of Harmon Avenue and Paradise Road, the new Hamburger Mary’s is currently under construction on East Flamingo Avenue, not far from UNLV and the Atomic Testing Museum. A planned summer 2017 opening was heavily delayed due to permit and construction issues, but the current target date of early August 2018 now seems likely.

Owner Lou Placencia is excited to bring Mary back to Las Vegas…

The eatery, whose slogan of “an open-air bar and grill for open-minded people” understandably draws a strong LGBTQ clientele. Hamburger Mary’s will occupy a building currently home to Flair Nightclub, a large gay-themed dance club. The two should compliment each other nicely. And since they share the same owner (Lou Placencia) Flair and Mary’s together can offer a complete night out.

This writer has long been a fan of Hamburger Mary’s. When living in Fort Lauderdale, there was one within walking distance on Wilton Drive (the gay mecca of South Florida). It was THE place to see and be seen. Eventually the location decided against renewing their franchise agreement, which resulted in the renaming of the restaurant (it’s now called Rosie’s Bar and Grill), but the food and good times remain generally the same. I visited just a few weeks ago and it was still a blast.

During the same trip to the east coast, I hit up a Hamburger Mary’s in downtown Orlando. It was absolutely freezing on that Saturday night…but inside, the crowd was standing-room-only for an outrageous drag show that entertained gay and straight diners alike. It was nice to see the mixed crowd having such a great time.

Depending on when you visit Mary, you might encounter a Broadway revue, trivia night or even some twisted variation on bingo. Being an adult-skewing establishment with a full bar and occasionally risque entertainment, you aren’t likely to see children here at night (or at least you shouldn’t). But Mary’s “Little Lambs” are gladly welcomed during the daytime hours with their own menu.

It was a special treat to visit Vancouver BC a few years back and discover a Hamburger Mary’s a few blocks from my hotel. Being the first guests upon opening gave the place an entirely different feel…but allowed me to savor the delicious food without the distraction of constant eye candy.

Each location is franchised and the owners are encouraged to develop a character reflective of its home city. So expect larger-than-life sights and sounds when Mary comes to Vegas. You can be sure that the menu, quality of ingredients and service will be superlative. There will be outdoor seating and the restaurant and bar are totally nonsmoking.

The spirit of Hamburger Mary’s extends beyond food and fun. Their dedication to local communities by way of fundraisers, charity functions and sponsorship of the arts and sports leagues is a tradition. More recently, franchisees have made strident efforts to address environmental concerns by moving towards energy and water efficiency, using recycled paper products and starting programs for composting and recycling waste.

One thing that won’t be wasted is the food on your plate. Everything I’ve ever selected through the years has been absolutely wonderful, from fresh salads to towering turkey burgers, sumptuous soups to mouth-watering meatloaf. Each location has a unique menu and daily food and drink specials, so have fun finding your own favorites.

One reason Hamburger Mary’s Las Vegas is already dear to my heart is that they’ve extended an invitation for me to host a certain gathering that I wrote about last month. That celebration for hunky show performers and award recipients was denied by an uptight public relations exec for Cafe 6 at Palms Place in December. Well, their loss is Mary’s gain.

Be sure to look for me…enjoying some grade A beef (and some prime beefcake) when Hamburger Mary’s opens at the end of next month. “Eat, Drink and Be Mary”.

Hamburger Mary’s/Flair Nightclub will be located at 1700 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas. Flair is currently closed due to construction. You can keep tabs on their opening date by clicking here.

Photos: Sammasseur, Hamburger Mary’s Las Vegas/Orlando, CBS Daytime via YouTube

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

Ranking Male Revues from a Gay P.O.V.

In this era of inclusion, how welcome are men at various male stripper shows?

Back in 1985, John Travolta played a Rolling Stone reporter in the semi-fictional drama Perfect. Assigned to cover the singles scene in Los Angeles, Travolta finds himself attending a male revue (save the jokes for later). Interestingly, he is forced to watch the proceedings from behind a screen. According to Laraine Newman’s character, men are forbidden from attending the show (a thinly-disguised Chippendales).

That was 35 years ago. These days, you’re as likely to see men in the audience as on the stage. I can say that from experience, as these shows are one of my favorite things to do when in Sin City. And they’re an absolute balls-to-the-wall blast!

While I attend as an openly gay man, not every guy in the audience is homosexual. It’s worth pointing out that women of all persuasions have been attending topless revues for decades, and that has always been acceptable.

As we gravitate towards an era of full inclusion, the lines of sexuality have blurred. But that doesn’t mean that men will get the same level of welcome and interactivity at each and every show. Many readers have asked me to recommend guy-friendly male revues, based on my personal experiences. Please note that this article in no way reflects the sexuality of the performers appearing in their respective shows.

So here they are, rated on a scale of one to five, with five being the highest.

MAGIC MIKE LIVE – 1 out of 5

The stand-and-model troupe at Magic Mike Live disappoints on all counts…

A stillborn offspring of Channing Tatum’s film franchise, Magic Mike Live really isn’t recommended for anyone. It’s a difficult slog to sit through and already my choice for the worst new show of 2017. The guys remain clothed for much of the running time, which is somewhat of a blessing in disguise (see below). Worse yet, a screeching female host makes the production nearly unbearable by squawking post-menopausal life lessons throughout.

It’s a bumpy road to Magic Mike Live. Don’t take it…

Public relations insiders have told me that the team at Magic Mike Live has shown little interest in marketing to the lucrative gay demographic. There’s very little reason for me to doubt that, especially after on my own experience.

Men hoping to get a lap dance or a round of onstage excitement will leave feeling disappointed…and out of lots of cash. Drinks and tickets are quite expensive. On the upside, cocktail servers are attentive (not to mention especially attractive) and save the evening from being a total loss.

THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER – 2 out of 5

Thunder From Down Under doesn’t rank high on the list for guys…

The long-running Aussie revue Thunder from Down Under at Excalibur allows men to attend (as do they all), but don’t expect to get more than a fist-bump from the dancers as they work their way through the audience. The rough-and-tumble men of the Outback are dripping with testosterone, but only seem interested in sharing it with the ladies.

Straight men will find the atmosphere completely “non-threatening”. Don’t expect to see guys brought up onstage for any audience participation segments, either. But they CAN purchase a group shot after the show.

Said one former member of the troupe “Guys don’t go to ‘hen shows’ where we come from. We just aren’t used to that.”

Chippendales – 4.5 out of 5

Chippendales is shy of getting a perfect score, but an absolute favorite…

The grand master of all male revues, Chippendales still packs them in and keeps up with the times. There is a moderate amount of interactivity with guys during audience numbers and plenty of shout-outs to gay members celebrating birthdays and such. I’ve even seen a guy celebrating his 21st brought onstage for a free calendar.

Straight guys should find this one well within their comfort zone. It’s kind of like hanging out with the bros…and single straight men should have a good time in the Flirt Lounge before and after the performance, chatting it up with the female attendees.

What keeps Chippendales from achieving a perfect five-star rating is that, after attending dozens of times, I’ve yet to see a man brought onstage for any regular segments. If you’ve witnessed otherwise, be sure to hit me up in the comments.

UPDATE 12/3/18: Since the original publication of this article, the creative team at CHIPPENDALES has upped their efforts to be more inclusive. Gentlemen are frequently, albeit briefly, brought onstage now. However, the segment I’ve seen this happen in (and have been included in myself) is not exactly of an erotic nature. So, although the addition is most welcome and another move in the right direction…their placement on this list remains unchanged.

I’m giving Chipps an extra half star since the production is a huge public supporter of gay fans. They’ve even featured an openly-gay host or two. Gentlemen are welcome to purchase group photos with the cast, and you can chat with the guys one-on-one after the final performance of each evening.

Aussie Heat – 5 out of 5

This upstart group takes on the big boys…and wins top honors. Not to be confused with Thunder from Down Under, the Aussie Heat show is a no-holds-barred fest of boy-flesh for men and women equally. Held in the intimate second-level V Theater 2 at Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile Shops, Aussie Heat fills the space with abs, biceps, butts and pecs. No audience member is ignored, and that’s the case from beginning to end.

Men are regularly selected for an onstage lap dance contest where three participants are blindfolded. They’re then asked to identify a particular dancer based on other senses…including taste and touch!

The Aussie boys spend plenty of time in the audience, often draping themselves across laps and inviting you to lick, fondle, rub and squeeze. Every dancer is an equal-opportunity flirt, besides being classically-trained performers in their own right. So this one is only recommended for open-minded straight men with a sense of adventure…and fun.

I’ve written two previous articles regarding the willingness of Aussie Heat to entertain male audiences. They’ve even gone so far as to have their nightly after-party once a week in a short-lived gay venue nearby.

Pre-show VIP experiences allow you to meet and photograph the guys in the prep room while they stretch and pump up their muscles. Photos with the cast are available for purchase after the show (proceeds go to Opportunity Village, a local charity), which can be as naughty as you want.

Men Of The Strip – 5 out of 5

I debated whether to include Men of the Strip in these rankings, as the production is currently on hiatus. What started as a planned residency ended up as a 6-night stint in Vegas with a possible tour on the way. But since there’s a chance of it returning with a regular schedule, I’m listing MOTS here with the others.

And Men of the Strip is certainly worthy of a gay male audience. Emcees address both genders in the audience with equal enthusiasm while lap dances and interaction are guy-friendly (cash tipping is allowed). Straight guys might be squirming in their chairs, but won’t mind hanging out with the worked-up ladies at the bar afterward.

MOTS ranks right up there with Aussie Heat in bringing guys onto the stage and into the action. If you want to see what I mean, check out the clip above from a performance at Hard Rock Cafe. Be aware that it’s not safe for work.

Black Magic Live aka Vivica’s Black Magic – Rating to be determined

This one is a toughie, compounded by the fact that I haven’t actually seen it…or spoken to anyone who has. This all-black male revue, currently playing at Ron Decar Events Center after a stint at Tommy Wind Theater, gained notoriety when actress Vivica A. Fox angered members of the LGBTQ community in a radio interview suggesting that gays weren’t welcome to attend. She later apologized.

Fox and the show’s executive producer Jean-Claude LaMarre have entered a legal battle over the issue:

“As a result of Fox’s defamatory social media campaign, LaMarre’s customers canceled ‘Black Magic Live’ tickets and demanded refunds at shows” the suit states. VARIETY 6/5/17

It remains unclear at this point whether Fox is still affiliated with the production, as the official website refers to the show with two titles, one conspicuously removing Vivica’s name. A very well-known member of the media, who was previously in a Vegas male revue, wrote to me directly with this information:

The owners are actually very gay friendly. I know some of the cast too. Sweet guys. All very gay friendly as well. I’d hate to see them get shot down before ever given a chance.

If you’ve seen Black Magic, please leave your impressions in the comments or drop me a line directly.

Next up, I’ll visit Kings of Hustler and Men of Sapphire, two male-centric offshoots of popular female stripper clubs. I’ll examine their guy-guest policies and what to expect when attending. Click here to read it.

Photos by Sammasseur, VivicasBlackMagic.com

Chippendales: Shirtless Angels of Charity

Legendary sexy dancers earn their wings with collars and cuffs…

The Chippendales show at Rio Las Vegas is one of my favorite productions. Along with being a rip-roaring night of entertainment, it’s also filled with the nicest bunch of guys you can hope to meet (and you will, just by sticking around after the final performance of each evening).

Sure, they’re hot, daring, mysterious and alluring…but behind those sultry glances are guys you’d be proud to take home for the holidays. Straddling the delicate line between “bad boy” and “mama’s boy”, the guys from Chippendales manage to be incredibly sexy and “innocent” at the same time.

That successful formula is what makes Chippendales the class act of male revues…so much so that they’re a welcome fixture at charity events of all kinds. When they aren’t working out or rehearsing, you can spot them at numerous functions across the city, day and night. Apparently they never sleep.

The Chippendales lend their smiling faces and gleaming pecs to fundraisers, community awareness gatherings, social movements and much more. While covering media events over the past few years, I’ve seen the boys in action at numerous functions…and have missed many more than that.

Matthew Marshall and Bryan Cheatham at Showboy Bakeshop…

…selling cupcakes to aid Pulse Nightclub shooting victims…

James Leigh Davis “Drops The Mic” for Noah’s Animal House charity…

Sharknado 4 premiere party to benefit Animal Foundation of Las Vegas…

Cameron Brown at McDonald’s “Eggs for Education” event…

Great Santa Run to benefit Opportunity Village…

Along with all the charity appearances, the Chippendales lend their celebrity clout to just-for-fun events. They’re fixtures at the annual Octoberfest keg-tapping at Hofbrauhaus Bavarian Restaurant, ride the waves of Planet Hollywood‘s FloRider surfing experience and show off their tans at Cowabunga Bay water park’s opening day.

Of course, even when having carefree fun, the men of Chippendales inevitably seem to find a tie-in to charitable causes. Earlier this month, James Leigh Davis was one of the judges at TREVI Italian Restaurant‘s annual pizza competition, which awarded $500 to the charity of choice for the best media-celebrity pizza maker.

Although Chippendales is known as the “Ultimate Girls’ Night Out”, they’ve welcomed men to their shows for a very long time….and they’ve built a very large gay following. The Chipps have embraced the LGBTQ audience so much that they appear regularly at Las Vegas Pride‘s daytime park festivals and the yearly evening downtown Pride Parade.

You’ll see the Chipps marching for a cause at the AFAN Aids Walk and putting their black ties and white cuffs/collars on for the yearly Black and White Party. Both of those raise funds for Aid for AIDS of Nevada, an organization dedicated to HIV/AIDS patients and their family members.

Human Rights Campaign to defend diversity…

AFAN’s Black and White ball…

…Human Nature, Marie Osmond and Olivia Newton-John…

In 2015, the members of the cast became body models for a very unique breast cancer self-examination video:

Chippendales supported that instructional video by participating in the Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure march. They continue to work regularly on a number of breast cancer events.

Many, if not all, of the Chippendales philanthropic contributions can be traced back to their publicist, Michael Caprio. Michael, whom I’m proud to call a friend, is a tireless supporter of numerous causes, both locally and around the country.

Soon Michael will be flying to Australia to participate in the annual Wellness Walk and Research Run with with his friend and client Olivia Newton-John.

Here’s a message posted by Caprio concerning the event:

As many of you know, Olivia is not only a client but a dear friend – and she is going through her second cancer journey. She has brought so much joy to so many of you so, it’s your turn to help me (and her) raise much needed funds for the ONJ Cancer Wellness & Research Centre. I am walking and raising funds for the Centre, ONJ and for some important people. My husband Randy who had his own cancer journey (and WON!), my Grandpa Dave (who unfortunately didn’t win) and, for my friend Benjamin Lemke – who at the age of 35 is currently on his SECOND cancer journey. We need to kick cancer’s ass – so, please help with whatever you can – as we ALL have someone close to us who is going through or has gone through the cancer journey. It sucks.

I have been a part of the ONJ Cancer Wellness & Reserach Centre since the idea was born and working with Olivia and the amazing ONJ Centre team from inception to opening to today – I can truly tell you the Centre has the same magic and healing power as Olivia. Please dig deep – or shallow – anything helps! Thanks. – Michael

For more details on how you can sponsor Michael’s march with Olivia Newton-John to help find an end to cancer, follow this link.

Michael and Olivia last fall at TURN UP THE PINK breast cancer fundraiser…

Closer to home, the boys of Chippendales will be getting shirtless, wet and sudsy for two more rounds of Celebrity Car Wash on August 31st at Caesars Palace (near Flamingo-side valet parking) and September 7th at Caesars Employment Center parking lot (behind Bally’s).

Cost for a car wash is ten dollars, with celebs like Jeff Civillico, Anthony Cools and the ladies of X-Burlesque joining in on the fun. Proceeds will benefit BCA Breast Cancer Awarness and Beanies for Warriors, who donate hand-knitted caps for chemotherapy patients. Donations of knitting supplies and volunteers are welcomed on both days.

So the next time you see a barechested hunk holding up a sign for donations, it’s probably not your imagination. Chances are it’s just the Chippendales, making the world a better place one shirtless day at a time.

Chippendales performs seven nights a week at Rio Las Vegas. Tickets start at $49.95 (plus taxes/fees) and are available here.

Photos: Sammasseur, Michael Caprio, Cameron Brown via Facebook, James Leigh Davis via Twitter, Official Olivia Newton-John Facebook, Hofbrauhaus, Planet Hollywood, Travelivery.com

SEX TIPS Brings “Queer Eye” Humor To Life

Off-Broadway sex farce is a bawdy good time…

Fans of Bravo’s Queer Eye were excited when Netflix recently announced a reboot of the lifestyle-advice series. Until its return, Vegas audiences can get their fix with a similarly-themed romp that recently debuted at Paris Hotel Casino.

Sex Tips for Straight Women From A Gay Man is the lengthy title of the new production inside Anthony Cools Theater. The long-running off-Broadway hit, built around an actual self-help book of the same name, has been cleverly dressed up in Sin City appeal.

Kendra Wilkinson (The Girls Next Door, Kendra On Top) stars as Robyn Brown, uptight moderator of a book forum known as Rendezvous with Alternative Authors of the Modern Era (RAAME, aka “ram me”). Ambitious Robyn, who may or may not have poisoned a superior to advance her career, discovers that the next scheduled book discussion will be on…you guessed it…”Sex Tips For Straight Women From A Gay Man”.

Jai Rodriguez plays Dan Anderson, a fictionalized version of the book’s very gay author. Arriving on a breeze of fizzy flamboyance, Anderson refuses to participate in Robyn’s stuffy moderation methods. Fearing his exit will sabotage her promotion, Robyn pleads with him to return. Anderson agrees…as long as he’s allowed to loosen up her stuffy book readings. AND, he wants to prove the validity of his book’s advice.

Luckily for Dan, he’s noticed that Robyn harbors a pent-up passion for Stefan, RAAME’s studly audio-video stagehand. He tempts Robyn to try out his sex techniques by using Stefan as bait. But first, he gives the librarian-styled moderator a “Queer Eye” make-over before the pair head out to a singles bar.

At this point, Dan recruits members of the audience to join the cast. One lucky guy becomes a recipient to Robyn’s homosexual-style pick-up techniques. Then Dan teaches a trio of blindfolded ladies how to pleasure a man’s sexual organ…as “only a gay man can”.

Various props, a fruit juicer and a neon air cannon come into play as the lessons progress. As you might imagine, these outrageous sequences bring down the house with laughter.

Along the way, Stefan agrees to assist Robyn’s lessons…for the sake of science, of course. He’s stripped down, stretched out, groped, massaged, licked and more. Incredibly attractive Chris Hodgson shines as linguistically-challenged Stefan, the lanky stud at the center of everyone’s desires. Hodgson, familiar to fans of Jubilee! and 50 Shades: The Musical Parody, is terrific and will have audience members of both genders swooning.

Jai Rodriguez is surprisingly charismatic in the role of Dan. His comic timing and improvisational skills make him a natural for the interactive sex farce. He is especially fun as “Pearl Necklace”, an elderly female alter-ego who shares a lifetime of conquests with the flabbergasted Robyn.

Playboy alumni Wilkinson is appealing but a little stiff as Robyn. While game, the performer could have benefited from a little more stage experience before taking on a headlining Vegas role. In fairness, the reality-TV star seemed to relax during the performance I attended (as a guest) as her own character transitioned from frumpy to liberated. Kendra arrives at her comfort zone during a striptease finale in Hodgson’s bulging arms.

With clever writing, three very attractive leads and blush-inducing humor, Sex Tips For Straight Women From A Gay Man should delight adult audiences of all sexual identities. It’s bright, bawdy fun and the perfect start to an evening on the town.

Sex Tips For Straight Women From A Gay Man runs through August 20th. The show performs 7pm nightly in the Anthony Cools Showroom (dark Wednesdays) with an additional 11pm show on Saturdays. Tickets start at $42 (plus taxes/fees) and can be ordered here. Groupon is currently offering an assortment of discounts on preferred seating and VIP meet/greets with the cast. Click here for details. Audience members must be 18 or over.

Photos: [Sammasseur, Levi Walker via Chris Hodgson Facebook]