By Judy Thorburn
Entertainment Reporter/Film Critic
Las Vegas Tribune
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer
www.theflickchicks.com


 Dragonfly Fashion Show at Studio 54's "Influence"

Last Tuesday night, the high voltage rock n’ roll clothing line “Dragonfly” created by Ed Dada held a fashion show at the premiere nightclub Studio 54's influence that was hosted by Maxim's Hometown Hotties Amber Lancaster and Kerry Suseck. At midnight, Amber and Kerry posed for the media and fans on the red carpet just prior to fashion show that began at 12:30 a.m. Amber and Kerry welcomed the crowd and introduced the fashion show that showcased four beautiful models strutting down the catwalk one-by-one wearing the Rock 'n' Roll inspired Dragonfly line of tees, tanks and dresses. Each girl modeled three outfits while jamming out to Rock 'n' Roll mash-ups and remixes in front of a cheering crowd.

Amber Lancaster and Kerry Suseck

 Sexy Female Cast of Fantasy Releases Sports Themed 2008 Calendar

On Wednesday evening “Fantasy” the seductive adult revue at the Luxor celebrated its second anniversary and release of the sports themed 2008 Fantasy Girls Calendar with a special show and after party pool reception. Before the show got started award winning producer and choreographer Anita Mann came on stage to thank the team of executives at the Luxor and to announce that her “goal is to always change the face of the show and keep it fresh”. She has done just that in this reworked version of the show by utilizing the talents of Fantasy’s choreographer Cris Judd and musical director Darren Sher who have lived up to Mann’s expectations by creating several new, sizzling dance numbers including the opening one and four new and original songs. Each new dance routine blends perfectly into the theme of acting out every hot blooded male’s sensual fantasies that comes alive nightly on stage by the beautiful topless dancers. Use your imagination to visualize numbers like “All Night”, “Sexy Thing”, “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy”, “Kiss Me”, “Night Time” and “Damsel in Distress”.

As lead singer, sexy raven haired vocalist Stephanie Jordan adds her own pinch of spice and a powerful voice, and the lone male member of the cast, triple threat Sean Cooper, an amazingly talented comedy impressionist/dancer had everyone roaring with laughter at his hysterical takes on James Brown, Sammy Davis Jr., Tina Turner and Michael Jackson.

Cast of Fantasy at the Luxor
Photo by Stephen Thorburn


Anita Mann welcomes VIP audience before the evening's performance
Photo by Stephen Thorburn


Sexy Female Cast of Fantasy with their 2008 Calendars
Photo by Stephen Thorburn

At the after-party alongside the pool, the entire cast showed up for a photo op, calendar signing and meet and greet. I had the pleasure of meeting one of the handsome co-stars of TV’s hit show, Heroes, Jimmy-Jean Louis who jokingly promised he wouldn’t use his character’s powers on me and absorb all my memories. Among the invited media and VIP guests was my friend, Las Vegas powerhouse agent Jaki Baskow who was accompanied by actor/dancer Adrian Zmed, known for his roles in the original version of Broadway’s Grease, as co-star of TV’s T.J. Hooker (opposite William Shatner) and host of Dance Fever.

Judy Thorburn with Jimmy-Jean Louis of "Heroes"
Photo by Stephen Thorburn


Sexy Female Cast of Fantasy with Anita Mann and Felix Rappaport
Photo by Stephen Thorburn

The steamy outdoor event and atmosphere was the perfect way to end the evening that began with Fantasy’s hot indoor performance. More captivating then ever, “Fantasy” at The Luxor, is performed Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 10:30p.m., Tuesday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 11 p.m. Tickets range from $45 to $59 not including tax and fees. Guests must be 18 years of age or older. Call 702-262-4400 for more information.

 Tony Danza Opens in "The Producers"

Last Thursday evening Tony Danza made his debut in the Las Vegas production of The Producers at Paris. The former boxer/turned entertainer who hit the big time in the 1970’s as one of the stars in the ensemble cast of TV’s "Taxi" followed by his co-starring role in the sitcom "Who’s The Boss" as well as his own talk show, has since made a name for himself as more than a TV actor. He’s proved to be a versatile entertainer and song and dance man as well as starring in films (Crash) and on Broadway in shows including "The Producers" in Las Vegas, where he is now reprising a role that he said "I can't wait to do again".

Tony Danza and Larry Raben in "The Producers"
Photo courtesy of Harrah's

In taking over the lead role of irrepressible Max Bialystock in Mel Brooks’ Tony Award winning musical, Tony makes the character of the theatrical producer his own with his genuine Brooklyn accent and additional feistiness, who along with his mousy accountant, Leo Bloom (Larry Raben) comes up with what seems a sure fire scheme to raise money to make the worst musical in history, Springtime for Hitler, and pocket the difference when it flops. Tony may not have the best voice in the business, but he makes it work. He commands the stage, looks like he is enjoying himself and that transcends to the audience who should find his performance thoroughly entertaining.

Larry Raben, Leigh Zimmerman and Tony Danza in "The Producers"
Photo courtesy of Harrah's

I enjoyed the show before, but with Danza, Raben, Leigh Zimmerman as Swedish bombshell/secretary Ulla, and other cast members from the Broadway production, Lee Roy Reams recreating the role of flamboyant director Roger DeBris and Bill Nolte as crazy Nazi/playwright Franz Leibkind, who have joined the show since I last saw it, the Las Vegas production of The Producers is now better than ever.

Larry Raben, Tony Danza and Leigh Zimmerman
Photo courtesy of Harrah's

But you don’t have to take my word. Tony Danza has signed on to star in the show for five months. Check him out for yourself and see what he and his fabulous supporting cast bring to one of the best shows on the strip. Performances are 8 p.m. Sunday thru Friday (Dark Wednesday) and Sunday 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. For tickets or more information call the Paris Box Office, 702-946-4567 or the toll free number, 877-374-7469.

 Stoney's Rockin' Country Grand Opening

Due to unforeseen circumstances Stoney’s Rocking Country did not open its doors to the public as expected on Friday, August 17. However, the Grand Opening which had to be postponed finally took place last Friday evening of August 24. From 7-9PM the Media and VIP invited guests were able to preview the largest nightspot and concert venue in Las Vegas that caters to the local and visiting concert crowd.

Stoney's Rockin' Country
Photo by Stephen Thorburn

The 20,000 square foot honky tonk hotspot, named after nightclub operator Stoney Gray, has been designed as “the ultimate bar that everyone loves coming to” stated Gray. And there are plenty of reasons why. Stoney’s Rockin’ Country features live musical entertainment by local, regional and national talent acts on a 45 foot by 25 foot main stage, an elevated 2, 500 square foot hardwood dance floor flanked by two full service 45 feet and 55 feet long bars, 3 bowling lanes, and four pool tables. A western staple, a mechanical bull with bleacher seating is situated in the corner for the best view of the room. But there are also two special VIP seating areas available in the center of the action including the Cowboy Ultra-lounge which offers patrons who are willing to pay the price, the luxury of relaxing on plush cow print wing backed seats and access to bottle service.

Also included as part of the scheduled nightly activities is bull riding contests and line dancing classes every Thursday thru Saturday beginning at 7PM.

Stoney’s Rockin’ Country is located in the Vegas Point Plaza at 9155 Las Vegas Blvd. South and is open daily from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. For complete event and entertainment information go to www.stoneysrockincountry.com .

 Other recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:

Congratulations go to the incredibly talented impressionist/ventriloquist Terry Fator, from Dallas Texas for beating out thousands of hopefuls and ultimately becoming America’s Got Talent’s second season winner. Not only does he take home the $1 million dollar prize for being chosen the 'Best New Act' in America by TV viewers, after revealing Fator's victory, host of the show, Jerry Springer also revealed, "We've got one more surprise for you. We know your dream is to play Las Vegas, [so] we're going to make that dream come true. You're going to be playing the Jubilee Theater at Bally's Resort." On August 22 Comedian-ventriloquist Ronn Lucas issued a statement congratulating his fellow ventriloquist. “I am just so proud of Terry for showing the nation that ventriloquism is an art form,” said Lucas. “Terry has shown that ventriloquism is a powerful entertainment force to be reckoned with.” Lucas and Fator have known each other for more than 10 years, and have had numerous conversations about ventriloquism. While Lucas has not seen Fator perform live, he truly enjoyed his performances on “America’s Got Talent,” and is looking forward to watching Fator perform when he comes to Las Vegas.

Impressionist/Ventriloquist Terry Fator - Second Season Winner of TV's "America's Got Talent"
Photo courtesy of NBC

Congratulation goes out to one the nicest people in the entertainment business, PR maven Laura Herlovich who has joined forces with industry veteran Chip Lightman to form www.ShowTickets4Locals.com a new outlet that offers complimentary show tickets to locals. “Many performers at different times of the year like to give back and show their appreciation to the locals in the form of free or discounted tickets. Most shows in Las Vegas do not need to fill empty seats and are not having trouble selling tickets, but whenever possible, performers use their tickets as a thank you,” says Laura Herlovich. Locals may sign up free of charge for complimentary tickets by going to the www.ShowTickets4Locals.com  website.


“America’s Got Talent’s" winner was picked last week and “V-The Ultimate Variety Show” followed by choosing a winner from a competition that would join the cast. Twenty five year old Tamara Yerofeyeva, a current Las Vegas resident, who was born and raised in the Ukraine, was chosen the winner from over 200 participants who auditioned for the “Vegas’ Got Talent” open auditions on Friday, August 17th at the V Theater. Tamara combines her knowledge of dance and rhythmic gymnastics to perform one of the most astounding acts on the strip. She previously performed for Cirque Du Soleil, Madonna and Aerosmith. “Tamara is one of the most amazing performers I have ever seen. She is going to fit in great with the current cast, who I think are the best in the world”, said David Saxe. Yerofeveva will be performing nightly at the V Theater for both the 7:30 pm and 9:00 pm performances of “V-The Ultimate Variety Show”.

Beginning this month (August) Vegas PBS is debuting the nation’s first Spanish language network that will air 24 hours a day. V-me (pronounced veh-meh, which means “see me”) delivers programming and events that reflect lifestyle, children and family, factual and current affairs, contemporary films, performance, arts and culture specific to the lifestyle and interests of Las Vegas’ Latino community. V-me airs on Cox cable channel 113, Dish TV channel 9414 and DishLATINO 846.Visit www.vegaspbs.org  for the V-me program guide.

Due to popular demand, Hans Klok and his divas of magic are hosting a meet and greet with fans in the lobby of Theatre of the Performing Arts following all 10 p.m. performances of his show “Hans Klok - The Beauty of Magic” at Planet Hollywood. A meet and greet with Klok and the divas of magic is free with admission to the show. Posters and shirts are available for purchase and signing at the merchandise counter.

Magician Hans Klok

Due to overwhelming public response, both BODIES...The Exhibition and Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino which was originally planned to close this summer, has been extended through the end of the year. Since opening at the resort in June 2006, hundreds of thousands of visitors have been entertained, educated and intrigued by these must-see Strip attractions. Both exhibitions will be open through December 2007.

It’s official. The 2006 Tony Award winning Broadway musical “Jersey Boys”, based on the story of music sensations Frank Valli and The Four Season, is coming to Las Vegas next year. Tickets are now on sale for the Las Vegas production of the hit musical slated to open at the Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Performances begin April 4, 2008. Ticket prices, exclusive of handling fees, range from $65 to $135, with VIP Packages available. Tickets for JERSEY BOYS at The Palazzo can be purchased by calling The Venetian Box Office at 1-866-641-SHOW or 702-414-9000, or online at www.VenetianTickets.com . Reservations for groups are currently being accepted, for more information call 702-785-5394 or email GroupSales@BASEentertainment.com .


Grammy award winning country music star, Randy Travis is set to perform at Buffalo Bill’s Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nev., on Saturday, Sept. 1 at 8 p.m. Tickets, priced at $29.95 and $44.95, plus applicable tax and fees are be available at Buffalo Bill’s Box Office.

Country Star Randy Travis

August 31 marks the 10th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death in a Paris car accident. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas will commemorate the life of the late Princess with a special memorial attraction starting Monday, August 27, through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 3, in its Spirit of America Room. While a wax figure of Princess Diana is a daily part of the Madame Tussauds experience, the memorial will create a special remembrance of the princess. The memorial will be located in front of a wall-sized photograph of Princess Diana with her sons, princes William and Harry. It will also include a tribute video and a message board, where the public can pay their respects with sentimental notes. Like all Madame Tussauds attractions, the Princess Diana memorial will be interactive, allowing the public the opportunity to pose with her wax likeness.

On September 1 the public is invited to Ruth Chris’ Steakhouse located in Park Plaza on Paradise Road, one block south of Twain, for a fundraiser to benefit Variety, the Children’s Charity. The event, which is being held in conjunction with sports and entertainment journalist, Peter Allman’s (Celebrity Scene) birthday, starts at 8PM and will offer a free buffet, a special cake, and appearances by several local celebrities including vocalist, Karin Denise formerly of Splash, entertainer Frank Scinta (of The Scintas), Allen Fawcett, Babe Pier, the Checkmates and other surprise guests. There is no charge for admission, but donations are encouraged to benefit the very worthy cause. Those interested in attending are asked to please RSVP at (702) 265-9099.

On September 3 Toby Keith’s: I Love This Bar & Grill, inside Harrah’s Las Vegas, will host the qualifying competition of the Colgate Country Showdown, country music’s largest and longest-running talent contest that gives hopefuls a chance to claim the title of the “Best New Act in Country Music.” Open to contestants of all ages, participants must qualify at local, state, and regional levels before advancing to the national competition held annually in Nashville where the grand prize of $100,000 is awarded. Past winners include country music super stars such as Brad Paisley, Garth Brooks, Martina McBride, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Sara Evans.

The Sept. 3 competition at Harrah’s Las Vegas is the last state-level competition in the country, inspiring entertainment hopefuls from across the nation to perform for a final opportunity to advance to the regional level of the competition. Each contestant will sing two songs of his or her choice with the accompaniment CMOA Hall of Fame member, Paul Bowmen of The Paul Bowmen Band.

Pre-event registration is encouraged; however, interested parties can sign up to compete any time prior to Sep. 2. Entrants must be 21 years or older. The competition will be held from 9 pm – 2 am and is open to the public. Finalists will be announced at the conclusion of the event. Admission is free to guests 21 years and older.

For registration information,
visit www.colgatecountryshowdown.com or contact Paul Bowmen at (702) 563-0740 or www.mdcm.us .

From Sept. 4- 23 Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill is hosting its fourth annual Chile Festival. The restaurant will also contribute $1 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas for every item ordered off the special Chile Fest Men that will highlight chile appetizers, entrées and even desserts. The new chile menu items being introduced at Z’Tejas Chile Festival include green chile chicken posole with green chilies, tomatillo, posole combined with stewed chicken ($5.99) and chipotle shrimp salad ($10.99) tossed with greens, oranges, red onions, goat cheese and served with chipotle mint dressing as appetizers. Entrées include Beef barbacoa enchilada (10.99) with green chile sauce, Jack cheese with pickled green chilies and citrus thyme mojo fish (market price) with green chilie rice. For dessert a sweet confection, the Mexican chocolate brownie sundae ($5.99) served with pumpkin seed brittle and ancho dulce de leche sauce is a great way to end the meal. The Chile Fest menu is available for lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Friday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill in Las Vegas is located in Summerlin at 9560 West Sahara Avenue. For additional information, please call (702) 638-0610 or visit www.ztejas.com .


In conjunction with UNLV vs. University of Hawaii football weekend the Golden Nugget will present Amy Hanaiali’ Gilliom, Hawaii’s jazz and rhythm & blues star and the islands most popular reggae band, Natural Vibrations. Tickets to see both acts in one exclusive performance on Sept. 14 at 8 pm in The Showroom are $40, plus tax and handling fee. On Saturday, Sept. 15, Natural Vibrations will perform after the game at 10 pm, outside at the Tank, Golden Nugget’s $30-million pool. Tickets for this poolside show are priced at $20, plus tax and handling fee in advance, or $25, plus tax and handling fee at the door. Tickets may be purchased online at www.goldennugget.com  or by calling the Golden Nugget Ticket Office, (702) 386-8100, toll-free, (866) 946-5336.

Acclaimed singer/songwriter and Eagles member Don Henley will be performing as a solo artist on Saturday, September 15th at 8 PM in the Venetian Ballroom at The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino. To purchase tickets call: The Venetian Box Office: 702-414-9000 or visit www.venetian.com .

In a special promotion with Miller Lite and the Palms Casino Resort, The Flaming Lips will perform at the Palms Pool and Bungalows on Sunday, September 16, 2007, at 8:00 p.m. Free tickets to see the band will be given away with specially marked packaging of 18-packs of Miller Lite. Now through September 15, 2007 concert goers can stop at any Short-Line Express, Green Valley Grocery or Speedee Mart and look for specially marked 18-packs of Miller Lite to acquire a sticker redeemable for two free tickets to the concert. The consumer will then take the sticker, along with the receipt showing proof of purchase, to The Pearl Box Office between the hours of noon and 7:00 p.m. to receive their tickets.

On Saturday, September 15 The Cannery Hotel and Casino is hosting a FREE KJUL Listener Appreciation Concert with international recording superstar Petula Clark and legendary comedian Sammy Shore. The music and laughter will take place at The Club, an indoor/outdoor venue located at the Cannery Casino & Hotel. Doors will open at 6:00pm and the show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets for this FREE event are available at the Cannery Casino & Hotel’s ticket sales counter located at the front desk check-in or at KJUL remotes.

In addition to the great performances, there will be local area vendors offering up delicious food and cool drinks. Also, there will be additional sponsors exhibiting their products and services with guests able to register to win fantastic prize packages at their booths.


Johnny Brenden, CEO of Brenden Theatre Corporation, and Audrey Roberts, Creator and Executive Producer of the “International Fine Art Awards (ARTV)” have joined forced to bring The 2007 “International Fine Art Awards to the Pearl Concert Theatre at the Palms on September 28th and 29th in which fine artists from the USA, Europe, Japan and South America will be presented. “ARTV” honors work in the Top 10 categories including special awards for “Artist of the Year” and “Lifetime Achievement.” In 2005 The Premiere “ARTV” Awards were hosted by Cheech Marin in 2005 and honored recipients with the beautiful “MUSE” award. The show aired on Bravo. Once again the awards show will be taped for television in HDTV for future broadcast. For more information about “ARTV” please visit the web site at www.artvawards.com . To learn more about Brenden Theatres visit their web site at www.brendentheatres.com


The third annual Las Vegas' Largest Mixer, that brings together local business organizations and professional to build business leads and network, will be held from 5:30pm to 9:00pm, Tuesday, September 18, at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, One Main Street, in downtown Las Vegas. Entrance fee is $15 per person and free parking will be available at the Plaza Hotel and Casino.

I’ll be back next time for what’s “happening” in and around Las Vegas.