Rock Candy – VEGAS UNFILTERED BLOG by Sam Novak

‘Vegas Unfiltered Blog’ Is Making the Big Move to ‘VEGAS 411’

As we begin year #5, ‘Vegas Unfiltered’ joins a well-established network of News, Reviews, Best-of/Worst-of lists and much more…

It’s been quite awhile since I’ve devoted space on this blog to things about myself. From the beginning, it’s always been about you, the reader. I started Vegas Unfiltered Blog with the goal to offer advice, recommendations, warnings, and ways to make the most of your hard-earned dollars.

But sometimes I’ve told you a little bit about my own personal matters, too. Like when I decided to move to Sin City from rural Oregon. And when I shared my personal loss of beloved pets. And the time I stayed up all night, traumatized by seeing the Las Vegas Strip being boarded up and chained on Pandemic Shutdown Night.

Now I’m going to share another personal event, but this one will affect people in the entertainment industry, hospitality workers, and regular readers just as much as myself. In the weeks ahead, Vegas Unfiltered Blog will become part of a larger family: VEGAS 411. This multi-purpose website is a hub for Vegas-centric writers, commentators, and freelance workers such as myself.

VEGAS 411 also is also home to TicketKite, a ticket vendor where you can reserve seats to big productions like Mystere and Blue Man Group. It’s main focus, however, is ready-to-discover fare like Rock Candy, The Hilarious 7, Amazing Magic with Tommy Wind, and The BIG little Variety Show. It’s worth remembering that not every treasure performs inside an arena or a $60 million showroom.

My responsibilities at VEGAS 411 will grow far beyond integrating and maintaining Vegas Unfiltered Blog. As their new Deputy Editor and part of the senior management team, I’ll be working with our writers to make a larger impact, expand our reach, and create sizzling new features. And I’ve already brought Clay Bushes, a like-minded no-nonsense colleague, on board to stir up some shit.

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I’ll also be VEGAS 411‘s “Man About Town”, so to speak. Throughout the year, I’ll attend events and openings, giving you up close and personal glimpses into everything VEGAS 411 covers. So get used to this smirky mug…it isn’t going away anytime soon.

I don’t sugarcoat shit. I’m not Willy Wonka.

You can be assured that I’ll continue to give you the clearest and most helpful information available. When something is worth your time, you’ll know it, but I won’t spare any feelings when another asshole like Criss Angel or the next train wreck production like Magic Mike Live or R.U.N comes into town. As always, it’ll be with the intention of helping you make the most educated choices for your Vegas vacation.

“Probably Biased. Definitely Honest” – Sam Novak, Vegas Unfiltered/VEGAS411

‘NSFW’ – UNCENSORED Is The Biggest Surprise Of The Season

Treasure Island’s New male revue comes out of Nowhere and Blows The Rest Away…

This is one of the rare times that I feel guilty for writing a rave review. Why? Because I’m about to state that the newest male revue in Las Vegas is far superior to anything we’ve seen before. And that’s a pretty significant claim to make. Get ready for Uncensored International Show at Treasure Island Hotel Casino.

Regular readers know that I’m a big fan of Chippendales and Aussie Heat. I’ve also enjoyed Rock Candy and the vastly-improved Thunder From Down Under (Magic Mike Live will undoubtedly remain a steaming pile of shit when it moves to Sahara this fall). So how can Uncensored International come out of nowhere and blow the others away?

First and foremost, Uncensored International has the hottest collection of guys you will probably ever see on one stage. Their tagline is “Younger. Stronger. Harder”. The flawless faces, stunning physiques, perfect skin and stimulating body language truly are of the highest caliber. Believe me when I tell you that the cast is huge! There are at least eight jaw-dropping gentlemen onstage at any given time, and each one is sheer perfection in talent and size (ahem).

Uncensored International is performed in the second-level event space of Senor Frog’s, known to many as the home of the world-famous Voss Events Drag Brunch. The unusual, sprawling layout of this venue would be a challenge for most productions, but Uncensored International transforms it into something both intimate and epic at the same time.

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There are three performance platforms inside Senor Frogs – a wide central stage and two smaller ones. All of them are utilized simultaneously, enveloping the audience in the action from every angle. The guys crisscross from one spot to the the next, leaping across tables, swinging on poles and running from end to end. Live video feeds are broadcast on floor-to-ceiling digital screens, ensuring that you won’t miss a second of the sizzle.

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Never before have I seen a male revue packed with such energy and power. Lighting and effects are amped to the max, accompanied by a pulsating soundtrack that dares you to sit still. Thankfully, chit-chat is kept to a minimum, aside from the priceless emceeing of the Supreme Queen herself, Shannel. This world-famous drag star is known to millions via her appearances on television’s RuPaul’s Drag Race, as well as her Vegas stints at 53X and Drag Brunch.

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Uncensored International begins with a bang. Actually, lots of them, as the guys position themselves behind large drums across the entire space. When the music begins, their pounding causes a Blue Man Group-inspired water spray which drenches their clothing. So begins a striptease that gives way to pole dancing directly over the audience.

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Various set pieces include Game of Thrones-inspired barbarians, a classy Vegas crooner number, locker room showers, and a prison transport sequence. Looking to heat things up even more? Wait until the stage is literally set on fire. Audience members are frequently pulled in for some seriously raunchy antics, so don’t expect to remain a wallflower for long.

Alas, there are a few minor caveats to the new production. Despite the fact that at least one quarter of the attendees on premiere weekend were men, guys are barely acknowledged by the dancers. My companion questioned a cast member on this issue, and the response was something along the lines of “We’re working on that”. Let’s hope so. My two-part article (here and here) compares other Vegas male revues for inclusivity, an important matter these days.

Update 6/16/21 – I’ve seen Uncensored International two more times since posting this review, and the cast, producers and host have taken major steps to making the show inclusive. Shannel now acknowledges the gentlemen in the audience with jokes and banter, the performers make eye contact, give close-up dances and more.

My friend and I were drawn into the action this past Saturday, as these photos demonstrate. They even came over after the show to chat with us in the casino. Way to go, everyone!!!!

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My second beef has to do with cocktail service. There was only one bartender, who was located in a dark, grungy corner far opposite the entrance and stages. I had to ask an employee where to get a drink, then missed the beginning of the show due to a long line. A cocktail server eventually came around, but by then the show was more than half over. Everyone knows that the real money is in alcohol sales, so Senor Frog’s needs to step up their game right away. More bartenders plus more cocktail servers equals happy Vegas partiers.

Update 6/21/21 – I have now seen UNCENSORED five times since it opened, and drink service has improved dramatically. There are now cocktail waiters and waitresses on the floor during seating and canvassing the showroom throughout the performance. Since my initial complaint, I’ve had no problems getting served. It’s nice to see improvements actually taking place in an era where service and amenities are constantly being chipped away. Dollars and sense…

As for the production, it was created in 2014 and at one point featured Latino actor/heartthrob William Levy. Producer Omar Suárez is known throughout Latin America for his work on Perfume de Gardenia, the largest stage spectacle ever seen in Mexico. It was choreographed by Eitan Tellez, who specializes in jazz, hip-hop, ballet and Latin fusion. Together, they’ve delivered a scorching 75 minutes that Las Vegas audiences expect and deserve.

I was extremely pleased with Uncensored International Show, and plan to visit again and again. Sin City might still be in shock by Chippendales‘ ouster from Rio Las Vegas, but there’s new crop of bad boys to scratch that itch. And they’re more than welcome on the Strip.

Senor Frog’s is located off the casino floor at Treasure Island. Showtimes are as follows:

Tuesday: 8:30 pm
Wednesday: 8:30 pm
Thursday: 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm
Friday: 7:15 pm / 9:45 pm
Saturday: 7:15 pm / 9:45 pm
Sunday: 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm

Audience members must be 18 and over. Tickets start at $65 (plus taxes/fees) and can be ordered here.

Photos: Sam Novak

Hot Guys Of Vegas: Grab A Handful of ‘Rock Candy’

New male revue features pedigree talent, chiseled abs…and one sizzling lady…

With nearly every major production already re-opened or slated to, it’s inconceivable that world-famous Chippendales male revue was recently evicted from Rio Las Vegas. In the past few months, a reborn Thunder From Down Under has gained steam, Aussie Heat continues to pack Mosaic Theater, and the awful Magic Mike Live‘s relaunch at Sahara Hotel is now scheduled for August (several false starts later).

While Chippendales searches for a new home, some cast members have scattered to parts unknown or taken non-entertainment roles. But at least three of the cuffs-and-collar crew are back onstage in a fledgling male revue called ROCK CANDY.

ROCK CANDY has taken a clever casting route by filling its recipe with laid-off performers from major shows like Le Reve and Cirque du Soleil productions. There’s also a heaping helping of AUSSIE HEAT with a few sprinkles of Thunder. Add a dash of one sexy lady and you’ve got a colorful display of morsels that is worth digging into with both hands and your teeth.

Rock Candy Male Revue is an intimate fantasy journey through the mind of your hostess, Rosa. This is not your typical Male revue, where the men think they know how to fulfill every woman’s fantasy. Rock Candy will entice your mind and stimulate your senses from a female perspective, as Rosa directs the dancers like her muses to bend to her will and desires. Every performance is different, while Rosa’s mind wanders from voyeuristic fantasies, uniformed dreams, and even a bit of bondage play. The Rock Candy dancers are Rosa’s playthings as she daydreams the night away.

Rosa Agius – Your Host

The big-budget Magic Mike Live could learn a few lessons from ROCK CANDY. Foremost is how to have a female host that doesn’t run interference between the guys and the audience. Mike‘s shrill emcee yanks you out of the fun with her incessant blather, but Rosa Agius serves as the perfect tour guide.

This super-sexy dancer/actress/choreographer/entrepreneur explores a variety of scenarios that draw you so deep, deep, deep into fantasy land that you just might need a towel.

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Sydney-born Rosa is one of the most ambitious entertainers in the city. Besides performing in ROCK CANDY, she runs her own apparel/furnishings company (Aussie Allure), operates an entertainment production company and is a VIP hostess at The Garden, the hunk-packed nightspot I told you about in this article.

Rosa probably has her lovely hands in even more enterprises, but thinking about it has made me exhausted. So let’s just enjoy a few of her fabulous photos before proceeding onto the men.

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You can see more of Rosa Agius by following her Instagram page here.

Now let’s taste a few delicious samples from the extensive selection at ROCK CANDY. Keep in mind that the large cast rotates from performance to performance….so you’ll want to dig into the candy bowl more than once.

Miguel Rivera Laureano –

When dancer Miguel Rivera Laureano made the move from Le Reve to Chippendales, his new employers couldn’t have been more pleased. “We’ve been trying for about two years to get him”, one of them confessed to me. And who could blame them for wanting to land this level of smoldering talent? Miguel is as good of a dancer as they come, and his looks and physique made him the perfect match for their cast.

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Seeing Miguel back onstage at Rock Candy this past week was a pleasant surprise. I’ve been an admirer of his for a long time (Le Reve was my favorite production until the pandemic forced its closure). I can’t say if he’ll return to Chippendales when they reopen, but he’s a terrific fit for Rock Candy, too. And…why wait for “then” when you can see him RIGHT NOW!

Follow Miguel’s Instagram right here.

Miguel Reyes Santiago –

If you’re into Latin lovers, then one scorching Miguel is never enough. ROCK CANDY serves up two hot tamales with the casting of Miguel Reyes Santiago. Be careful not to confuse them, as Santiago was in the Le Reve cast, too. He’s also been in Cirque du Soleil‘s MJ One and Vegas! The Show. So while other male revues are more about the looks, Santiago’s resume proves that the studs of ROCK CANDY can really dance!

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Mr. Santiago’s manly chest and rippling abs are the product of hours of training. An avid cross-fit participant, he recently traveled to Tulum, Mexico, where he gave their famous “Jungle Gym” a try. Shirtless, of course. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Take a trip with Miguel Reyes Santiago through his Instagram page.

Ryan Kelsey –

If you’re a follower of local Vegas bands, chances are that you’ve seen Ryan Kelsey behind the guitar. A born entertainer with show business in his blood, Kelsey plays venues of all sizes. He’s also a consummate dancer, having progressed from Chippendales swing performer and calendar model to their official Dance Captain.

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As is the case with Miguel Rivera Laureano, the handsome musician joined the cast of ROCK CANDY while Chippendales loyalists await the verdict on when, where, or if the original male revue will return. In the meantime, Kelsey is tantalizing audiences at Alexis Park Resort every weekend. His fans will undoubtedly follow him there. And you can follow Ryan via Instagram by visiting this page.

Antonio GrandA manzano –

Young Cuban Antonio Granda Manzano is another one of those handsome hardbodies that you’ve seen all over town. You might not know his name, but it’s hard to miss his memorable features on billboards and ad campaigns for The STRAT hotel, Passion libido spray (say what?), Navi Collection swimwear and INMEX eyewear.

An international entertainer who’s been all over the world, the singer/dancer/actor has been in numerous stage productions, TV commercials and films. Antonio is also a horror movie enthusiast who spends many evenings attending the fright fests at West Wind Las Vegas Drive-in Theater. And he somehow finds the time to pick up extra cash as one of the hot staff at The Garden, along with his dear friend Rosa Agius (see above).

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Get to know Antonio a little better by ~~stalking~~ visiting him on Instagram via this link.

Jeffrey Garrovillo –

Every class has a clown. And every group of guys has the “bad boy”. Jeffrey Garrovillo fulfills both roles in ROCK CANDY. As outlandish as he is naughty, the seasoned entertainer sports a physique as memorable as his distinctive hair style.

Jeffrey is as home in the water as he is onstage, being both an experienced technician for “O” at Cirque du Soleil and a former man of Chippendales (yes, another one!). If you want to how this sexy stud got that slamming body, then ask Teresa Van. She’s the owner of ENVY Training, which I profiled here. Jeffrey is a trainer at ENVY and excels at kickboxing, which explains his supple abs and impressive flexibility.

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If you’d like to dive a little deeper into Jeffrey Garrovillo, then check him out on Instagram right here.

Nino Anthony SMith –

He’s a stunning dancer. An actor. A stuntman. A teacher. A host. He’s Nino Anthony Smith, the multi-hyphenate action man of ROCK CANDY. Nino might come across as a little intense, especially with his steely gaze. But once he smiles, you’ll see the little kitten behind Nino’s panther-like facade.

Speaking of panthers, word has it that Mr. Smith was part of the large cast of Marvel‘s mega-hit BLACK PANTHER. How’s that for an impressive entry on the resume? He’s also a big fan of horror films. One of his favorite actresses is Lisa Wilcox (A Nightmare On Elm Street 4 and 5), who happens to be the manager of The 35 Cinema right here in Las Vegas. And Nino has delved into the horror genre himself, playing the undead in a recent zombie flick.

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If you want to see Nino Anthony Smith very much alive and up close, get your tickets to ROCK CANDY. And you can follow his latest activities on Instagram.

ROCK CANDY performs Friday through Sunday at 8pm inside Alexis Park Resort at 375 East Harmon Avenue. Audiences members must be 21 or over. Tickets start at $59.95 via the official website, but you can save up to 25% by ordering via BestofVegas.com. right here.

Photos: ROCK CANDY cast and show social media, Levi Walker and Noel Dahl. Photographers are credited at those sites.

Grab Your Boots and Stetson for ‘BLICK LINEDANCE’

Sin City Dancing Returns in an exciting All-American way…

Yes, it’s true that Las Vegas is back. And if the packed airline flights that I’ve recently taken are any indication, that’s the way it’s going to stay. Restaurants, pools, and shows have opened up to increased capacity, and more fun and freedom are on the horizon. But what about dancing???

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Photos from mid-April 2021

The pathway to reopening nightclubs in our new era is going to be tricky. Too bad there aren’t any outdoor dancing venues around town to speak of. But award-winning line dancer George Blick has a plan to make COVID-safe line dancing the latest Sin City trend.

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Gallery by Vinnie Cassidy…

“Line Dancing improves stamina, muscle tone and coordination, is a great stress buster and energy booster. Dancing is a unique form of exercise because it provides the heart-healthy benefits of an aerobic exercise while allowing you to engage in a social activity. It’s a community, and it’s all about having fun” says George.

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If you are in the camp that doesn’t find this activity to be appealing or hip, you might be in for a big surprise. Despite being a skeptic myself, I joined George and his crew, pre-pandemic, for an evening of fun at Stoney’s Rocking Country at Town Square. The youthful crowd was extremely high-energy and raucous, and all eyes turned towards George when he entered the dance floor. It’s quite a sight.

Blick Linedance began a YouTube Channel in October 2019, long before COVID-19 changed our way of life. An accompanying Facebook Page and official website keep fans up-to-date on the latest classes and events. George’s tutorials blend socializing, physical fitness and a love for good ole country music into a rip-roaring great time. Fortunately, the need for distancing of participants is built right into the checkerboard format. So…win-win!

“The only way to keep the fire going is to outrun the wind.” – George Blick

If the name “George Blick” seems familiar to you, it should. I’ve featured this handsome devil in an in-depth profile as well as an essay on Celebrity Quarantine Fitness. The native of Whales played the role of “Stefan” in SEX TIPS at Paris Las Vegas, is a cast member of Mosaic‘s Aussie Heat and host of the new Rock Candy Male Revue at Alexis Park Resort.

Dancing has always been George’s passion. The Laine Theater Arts graduate holds six consecutive World Championship titles, has performed for the Queen, entertained aboard cruise ships, and shared his talents in over fifty countries.

On May 1st, George will be heading to California Ranch Company in Temecula for an outdoor festival. The EDGE DANCE EVENT invites guests to grab their camping gear, hook up their RV’s and prepare for a boot-scooting good time. Tickets and registration are available here.

Closer to home, Blick Line Dance holds beginner and intermediate classes in Las Vegas for those yearning to get out and enjoy themselves in a safer setting. Sessions take place Mondays (beginner) and Wednesdays (intermediate) at 9am inside Seniors Helping Seniors. Their center is located at 451 E. Bonanza Road. Classes last one hour and are quite a bargain at only five dollars each. Click here for more details.

Going forward, George would like to take advantage of warmer weather to bring line dancing “out to the streets”. He’s actively seeking venues with large spaces, paved surfaces and courtyards to launch concepts like “Linedance Brunch”, early-evening nightclub socials and the like. Perhaps it’s time to bring flash mobs back to the Fremont Street Experience?

Vegas is back on its feet, and it’s time to bring a little “country” to Sin City. If you have a performance venue, group, club, or special event that could use an infusion of fun, contact George Blick to see what he can bring to the floor. You can reach him right here.

Photos: George Blick, Sam Novak, Vinnie Cassidy