On with the show: true to form, the 'entertainment capital of the world' offers an eye-popping array of alluring, awe-inspiring and award-winning productions

Pool & Spa News, Oct 15, 2004 by Margot Carmichael Lester

Broadway and Hollywood may think they've cornered the market on glitz and glare, but anyone who's been to Las Vegas will tell you otherwise. With more smoke and mirrors, neon and sequins per square inch, Vegas offers a stunning array of live entertainment that is second to none.

The choices seem endless: There are magicians, world-famous singers, variety shows and top-of-the-line musicals. We asked Sin City experts and local residents to weigh in on their favorites and culled a list of must-see shows to help you get the full Vegas experience.

Blue Man Group

The Scoop: They've got rhythm ... and they're blue. The Blue Man Group provides nothing short of unique entertainment, blending rhythmic drumming and other sounds with extraordinary visual effects. You won't believe what they can do with a little PVC pipe! Venue: The Luxor Theater at Luxor Hotel and Casino. Show times: Various. Call for times. Tickets: $75, $85. Reservations: (800) 288-1000 or (702) 262-4000. Note: Be warned: The paint flies during this 90-minute show. Also, they pull people from the audience to come on stage. Sit near the back if neither of these concepts appeals to you. Ages 6 and up only.

Celine Dion: A New Day ...

The Scoop: Despite "retiring," the Canadian songstress plays nightly to sold-out crowds at her Vegas show. The production includes her greatest hits, plus classic covers--and an incredible number of costume changes. Don't blame us if you're struck with a sudden urge to buy a Chrysler. Venue: The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Show times: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $87,50-$225, Reservations: Strongly recommended. (877) 235-4634 or (702) 731-7110.

Jubilee!

The Scoop: Fans of E!'s original "Vegas Showgirls: Nearly Famous" show won't want to miss this production. Now in its 20th year, the show consistently receives accolades for choreography and the best showgirls. Venue: Jubilee Theatre at Bally's Las Vegas. Show times: Saturday-Thursday, 7:30- and 10:30 p.m. Tickets: $55-$75. Reservations: Recommended. (800) 634-3434 or (702) 739-4111. Note: Some topless dancers. Ages 18 and up only. Those 14 and older can attend a backstage tour of the show on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 2 p.m. for $15.

Lance Burton

The Scoop: The man manages to hide a half dozen ducks (among other things) in his tux. What more do you need to know? You don't want to miss this master magician's show. Venue: Lance Burton's Theatre at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino. Show times: Tuesday and Saturday, 7- and 10 p.m.; Wednesday-Friday, 7 p.m. Tickets: $60.45, $65.95; children under 2, free. Reservations: (877) 386-8224 or (702) 730-7160. Note: Kids in the audience often are brought on stage to help with the illusions.

Mama Mia!

The Scoop: Who would have thought that a '70s hit band (ABBA) would spawn an independent film that inspired a world-class musical? Yet that's what you have in "Mama Mia!," the smash hit production about a daughter, her mother and her three possible fathers--oh, and a wedding. Venue: Mandalay Bay Theatre at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Show times: Monday-Thursday, 7 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 5- and 9 p.m. (Dark Friday.) Tickets: $82.50, $110. Reservations: Strongly recommended. (866) 807-4697 or (702) 992-7970. Best availability is on the weekend. Note: Ages 5 and up only.

Masquerade Show in the Sky

The Scoop: This Mardi Gras-style parade features floats suspended from the ceiling over the casino floor. On the final run, float riders toss beads from on high, peppering unsuspecting gamblers and delighting visitors. Venue: Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino. Show times: Daily, 3, 4-, 5-, 6:30-, 7:30-, 8:30- and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: Free. Note: Feel like taking a different kind of gamble? For $9.95, you can ride in the parade (as long as you're taller than 3 feet). Tickets are available at the Rio Box Office. Participants must be at the main stage 45 minutes before their desired show.

0

The Scoop: "0" is the Cirque du Soleil's water-based extravaganza. Paying tribute to the magic of theater, the stage is a frenzy of color and motion, with activity occurring in, above and under the water. Performers dazzle audiences with synchronized diving feats, aerial acrobatics and underwater antics. Venue: Bellagio. Show times: Wednesday-Sunday, 7:30-and 10:30 p.m. (Dark Monday and Tuesday. The show will be closed Dec. 6-21.) Tickets; $99-$150. Reservations: Strongly advised. (888) 488-7111 or (702) 693-7722. Note: Ages 5 and up only.

Penn & Teller: Living in Vegas!

The Scoop: After wowing Broadway audiences with their amazing and irreverent magic act, Penn & Teller's live show has a permanent home in Las Vegas. Penn (the one who talks) is quick to crack wise, while Teller does most of the heavy lifting, alternating between a magician's swagger and slapstick. Venue; Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino. Show times: Daily, 9 p.m. (Dark Tuesday.) Tickets: $70. Reservations: (888) 746-7784. Note: Ages 5 and up only.

Saturday Night Fever

The Scoop: A live stage show based on the hit movie and the biggest-selling soundtrack in history. You'll hear all your old favorites, including "live Talkin'" and "Stayin' Alive," in addition to two new songs written specifically for the show. So break out your white suit and platform shoes, and boogie on down. Venue: Sahara Hotel and Casino. Show times: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 7- and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $36.50-$66.50. Reservations; Recommended. (888) 696-2121 or (702) 737-2111. Note: Dinner combo available.