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 By
Judy Thorburn
Entertainment Reporter/Film Critic
Las Vegas Tribune
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer
www.theflickchicks.com
Photos by Stephen Thorburn
unless otherwise credited
Red
Carpet Fundraising Event at The Palms Benefits Shakira's
Charitable Foundation
On Tuesday evening, November 6, the Red Carpet was laid out in front of
Rain Nightclub at the Palms Casino Resort for the arrival of celebrities
who showed up for a charity event titled “An Evening of Love”. Proceeds
for the event went to benefiting Grammy winning recording artist
Shakira's non-profit Bare Feet Foundation (Pies Descalzos Foundation)
that aids underprivileged children and their families. Tickets for this
fundraiser started at $250 and included a dinner and silent auction,
and an exclusive performance at "Rain" by international music superstar,
Shakira, who performed songs from the film’s soundtrack, and a
special preview screening of the movie “Love in the Time of Cholera” at
Brenden Theatres. Among the celebrity guests were the films executive
producer, Andrew Molasky, producer Scott Steindorff, director Mike
Newell, the film’s costars Benjamin Bratt, and Angie Cepeda, Angelica
Vale, Barbara Bermudo, Miss Wyoming 2006 Jenileigh Sawatzke,
actress/model Rubia Negrao, Emilio Estefan, Penn Jillette, and Shakira.
Shakira
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Benjamin Bratt
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Angie Cepeda
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Mike Newell
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Scott Steindorff and Rubria Negrao
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Penn Jillette and his wife
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Miss Wyoming 2006 Jenileigh Sawatzke
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Giselle Blondet
Photo by Judy Eddy
Emilio Estefan
Photo by Judy Thorburn
Barbara Bermudo
Photo by Judy Eddy
Angelica Vale
Photo by Judy Eddy
Argentina's
Tango Buenos Aires Performs at UNLV Performing Arts Center
On Thursday evening, November 8, I headed over to Ham Hall at the
Performing Arts Center on the UNLV campus to see one of Argentina’s
great cultural exports, the dance troupe Tango Buenos Aires, recognized
all over the world as the most authentic and uncompromising
representative of the dance form.
The stage was barren other than the superb five piece
instrumental group supplying the mesmerizing music that accompanied the
dancers and conveyed the spirit of Buenos Aires. No props or set
backdrops were necessary, since once the dancers appeared on stage to do
their thing, all the attention is focused on the lithe dancers’ bodies,
sensual movements and fancy legwork. Words that immediately come to mind
in watching the talented dancers move gracefully across the stage are
steamy, provocative, and passionate. When executed by professional
artists such as these, one can easily understand why the tango is
considered one of the sexiest of ballroom dances. Intricate,
intertwining legwork, close body contact, proud postures, dips, kicks,
swirling moves around the floor and quick foot stomps define the dance
that blends intensity, drama, a bit of playfulness and theatrics, and
never less than hot, hot, hot. I was totally enthralled by the evenings
performance, a beautiful and thrilling concoction of dance and music
that succeeded in seducing the entire audience. For more information
about Tango Buenos Aires visit
www.cami.com .
Trader
Vic's Las Vegas Grand Opening Event
Friday evening of November 9, was the VIP Grand Opening party for the
internationally acclaimed Trader Vic’s restaurant which recently opened
its doors inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. This venue
is the first Trader Vics to debut in Las Vegas, but those who are
familiar with the upscale restaurant with franchises all over the world,
recognize the brand name for its exotic atmosphere,
Euro-Asian-Polynesian cuisine and tropical themed drinks. In fact, the
restaurant’s founder Vic “The Trader” Bergeron is the inventor of the
original Mai Tai (Tahitian for “very best) and was the first to import
Polynesian dishes and décor to the United States.
Photos by Stephen Thorburn
This new restaurant differs from any other Trader
Vic’s found throughout the world in that the over 15,000 square foot of
venue space includes three separate dining and entertainment rooms
featuring a ground level restaurant with an outdoor patio (accommodating
up to 200 guests) that overlooks the strip and a second level Tiki Club
ultra lounge and bar, that provide patrons with a fabulous,
unobstructed, panoramic view of the Bellagio Fountain, the Eiffel Tower
and more. There is also a VIP Celebrity entrance, private elevator,
built in DJ area, and unparalleled sound. Of course, Trader Vic’s famed
island motif would not be complete without the attention getting,
signature Polynesian towering wooden tiki statues.
For this particular occasion, invited guests were immediately greeted at
the entrance by personable hostesses dressed in skimpy Polynesian garb,
offering to put leis made of purple and white island orchids around our
neck to complement the evening’s island like service and festivities
which featured buffet style tables on both the main level and second
story that was filled with an assortment of delicious island inspired
cuisine. There was shrimp, oysters, lobster on a stick, crab cakes, pork
tenderloin, bacon wrapped scallops, BBQ pork mini sandwiches,
shrimp/pork or lobster dumplings, shrimp stir fry, skewered beef, sushi,
mash potatoes and gravy, pork with rice, a cheese platter, and a fruit
platter comprised of melons, berries and pineapple. A dessert bar
presented flambé fruit and mini pastries and an open bar featured what
else, but Trader Vic’s famous Mai Tais as well as other delightful
libations. Entertainment was provided by Polynesian dancers who blew
conch shells and danced with reeds. Later in the evening, the cast of
Stomp Out Loud made a surprise entrance, stomping their way through the
crowd, giving guests a sample of their nightly performance.
Vic Bergeron based his original Trader Vic’s restaurant in Northern
California’s Bay Area, on the simple notion of “an escape from ordinary
life”. That illusion of an island getaway eventually expanded to
incorporating different cultures from around the world. But the island
style service and atmosphere is a mainstay. With a menu featuring dishes
from Europe, Polynesia, Asia and the Americas and tropical libations,
customers can’t help but feel like they are transported to an exotic
location.
Trader Vic’s is located on the Las Vegas strip at the north entrance of
the Miracle Mile Shops and Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. For more
information, visit
www.tradervicslv.com .
2007 Ms.
Senior America Pageant at The Imperial Palace
Pageant photos by Stephen Thorburn
After two days of preliminary rounds, the finals of the 2007 Ms. Senior
America Pageant, took place inside the audience filled showroom of the
Imperial Palace on the afternoon of Saturday November 9. Thirty four
contestants aged 60 and over from all over the U.S. converged in Las
Vegas to vie for the coveted title. Acting as emcees were former Lt.
Gov. Lorraine Hunt-Bono and her husband of two years, entertainer/TV
host Dennis Bono. Since it also happened to be Veteran’s Day, a special
tribute was made to all armed forces veterans, our troops serving all
over the world, especially in Iraq, and those recovering in hospitals.
One of the pageant’s distinguished judges was Colonel Kevin McAleese,
who recently returned from a 15 month tour of duty in Iraq.
The Ten Finalists in the 2007 Ms. Senior America
Pageant
What differentiates this pageant from others is the
emphasis on inner beauty as well as outer beauty and recognizes each of
the mature contestants for their volunteerism and community service. The
judging was in four categories: interview (earlier in the week), evening
gown (displaying poise and grace), personal philosophy of life, and
talent. With ten finalists chosen, it came down to those whose entire
package would exemplify the “age of elegance”.
The Five Finalists
Co-emcee Dennis Bono, was right when he said “This is
the most exciting and hottest Ms. Senior America Pageant ever.” In the
three years I have covered the pageant, this year’s event was by far the
best in every aspect. Besides the finalists who showed off their vocal,
dance, or instrumental talent, fabulous crowd pleasing entertainment was
provided by several energetic, senior performers including the St. Louis
Strutters (9 tap dancing ladies), the Sedona Showstoppers (4 male
singers and 5 female dancers), the debut of the Ms. Senior America
Sopranos that consists of a trio of former title holders who sang a
medley from Phantom of the Opera, plus several other performances by
former crown winners.
The St. Louis Strutters
The Sedona Showstoppers
The Ms. Senior America Sopranos
Ms. Senior America 2006 Suzanne Shelley
Past Ms. Senior America Queens
The Ten Finalists in the Talent Competition
Ms. California, Susan Cashman
Ms. Arizona, Sharon Friendly
Ms. Utah, Mimi Mordock
Ms. Minnesota. Linda Wagner
Ms. Connecticut, Joyce Keating
Ms. Florida, Joanie Helgesen
Ms. Alabama, Eleanor Davis
Ms. South Carolina, Connie Sue Karl
Ms. Virginia, Brenda Brokaw
Ms. Missouri, Susan Groves
The judges must have had a hard time choosing a
winner since each one of the finalists seemed to possess all the
attributes deemed worthy of representing the “age of elegance”. But,
when the votes were tallied, Ms. Senior Minnesota, a very youthful,
pretty, curly haired Linda Wagner who wowed everyone with her operatic
singing voice, was crowned 2007 Ms. Senior America. First runner up was
Ms. South Carolina, Connie Sue Karl; second runner up was Ms. Senior
Arizona, Sharon Friendly; third runner up was Ms. Senior Alabama,
Eleanor Davis; and fourth runner up was Ms. Senior California, Susan
Cashman.
Ms. Senior America 2007 Linda Wagner from Minnesota
I had the pleasure of sharing a booth in the audience
with Gladys Hughes, Ms. Senior Mississippi 2003, her husband Hughie, and
their daughter Bonnie. At 84 years young, Gladys is the epitome of
ageless beauty. I was so impressed by her intelligence, vitality, poise,
and humor. She many not have won the national title four years ago, but
like all the ladies who graced the pageant stage, it only goes to prove
that although you are getting older, you are getting better.
Gladys Hughes Ms. Mississippi 2003
Other
recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
One of Las Vegas locals’ favorite casinos Arizona Charlie’s Decatur has
been voted “2008 Best Bet for Superior Service” in the Las Vegas market
as part of 10Best, Inc.’s inaugural “10Best Bet Awards”. Established in
1999, 10Best, Inc. provides unbiased travel advice to more than 40
million travelers each year through its website, www.10Best.com and its
partners in the travel industry- leading hotel brands, Priceline.com,
and Verizon Wireless.
The Royal White Tiger Habitat at The Mirage has closed. In its place
will be the a new restaurant, BLT Burger by acclaimed chef Laurent
Tourondel, that is scheduled to open spring 2008. Guests may continue to
view the magnificent Royal White Tigers at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret
Garden and Dolphin Habitat.
Silverton Casino Lodge has begun a $130 million expansion project
encompassing the resort’s casino, dining and entertainment amenities
that is expected to be completed by early 2009. The casino and public
space will increase by 35,000 square-feet and include the addition of
800 slot machines, a high limit gaming salon, race & sports book and
poker lounge. In addition, a retail shop, three restaurants and a
high-energy center bar will also be constructed. For more information,
please visit
www.silvertoncasino.com .
On Friday, November 16 Rock ‘n Roll Wine will host an Evening at Risqué
Nightclub to Kick Off the Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration at Paris Las
Vegas. Throughout the night the event will feature taste offerings of
over 20 wines including Beaujolais Nouveau and food sampling from Mon
Ami Gabi and Les Artistes along with live music by Acoustic Soul.
Advance tickets for Rock ‘n Roll Wine are $33 (Including LET tax) and
include all wine tasting and live entertainment, and can be purchased
at, www.rocknrollwine.com .
Tickets at the door are $38 (Including LET tax). Must be 21 years of age
or older to attend.
Beginning November 16, Mr. Las Vegas, Wayne Newton will bring his
traditional Holiday Show to Harrahs where he will perform a compilation
of his classic hits, holiday tunes and favorite songs of the season on a
winter wonderland set. Wayne Newton performs his classic show November
16 & 17 and December 26-29. The holiday show dates are Nov 22-24, 26-30,
Dec 1, 3-7, 10-15 and 17-22. Tickets for the holiday show available at
www.harrahs.com or calling
702/369-5222 are $86.35 and $113.85 including tax and fees. Show times
are at 8:00 pm.
The Nevada Conservatory Theatre production of the award winning musical
Fiddler on the Roof based on the 1894 stories of Sholem Aleichem, a
popular Russian Jewish author of Yiddish literature, opens November 23,
the day after Thanksgiving, in the Judy Bayley Theatre at UNLV.
Performances are November 23, 24, 29, 30, December 1, 6, 7, and 8 at 8
p.m. with matinees at 2 p.m. on November 24, 25, December 1, 2, 8 and 9.
Tickets are $30, $25 and $20 and on sale at the UNLV Performing Arts
Center Box Office. Special Group Rates are available for groups of 15 or
more. Box Office hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
and Saturday from 10na.m. to 4 p.m. The box office may be reached by
calling 895-ARTS (2787).
Friday, Nov. 23, at 10 a.m. Galleria at Sunset will open its 56-by-85
square-foot outdoor ice skating rink. The rink, which is open to the
public of all ages, will operate through Tuesday, Jan. 1, and will be
located in the south parking lot near valet. A live performance by
Russia’s Ice Direct – a professional ice performing group currently
featured at the Riviera Hotel and Casino – will be hosted at 7 p.m. on
opening day as part of the festivities.
On Friday, November 23 and Saturday, November 24, for the second
consecutive year The Orleans Arena will host the third and championship
rounds of the Findlay Toyota Las Vegas Invitational college basketball
tournament on Friday, November 23 and Saturday, November 24. The
competing teams are North Carolina, Louisville, Brigham Young, Old
Dominion, South Carolina State, Hartford, Iona, and Jackson State.
Ticket prices range from $94 to $168 and are sold as a 2-Day Package
only. For more information, please contact the Orleans Arena at
702-284-777 or 888-234-2334 or on the web at
www.orleansarena.com
On Friday, November 30 Southern California blues-rock band Great White
will appear in concert starting at 8 p.m. inside Club Madrid at Sunset
station. Tickets are $10 including tax. Guests must be 21 years or older
to attend.
America’s Got Talent recent winner, entertainer, Terry Fator, who blew
away TV audiences with his an amazing talents as a ventriloquist,
celebrity impressionist, comedian and singer has been signed to a 2008
schedule at the classic resort worth more than $1.5 million. The Hilton
had recognized Fator’s talents and booked him to perform at the venue in
October before he had won “America’s Got Talent and those shows were
quickly sold out. Fator will kick off his new deal at the Hilton with a
special New Year’s Eve show at 6 p.m. Fator, with special guest Bobby
Badfingers, also performs Monday, December 3 at 7 p.m. in the Hilton
Theater.
Fator’s 2008 schedule: December 31 (2007) at 6 p.m.; January 17, 18, &
19 at 8 p.m., February 22 & 23 at 8 p.m.; February 24 at 6 p.m.; March
28 & 29 at 8 p.m., March 30 at 6 p.m.; April 28, 29 & 30 at 8 p.m.; May
16 & 17 at 8 p.m.; and May 18 at 6 p.m.
Tickets are $49-$149 (plus tax and service charge). The $149 ticket
price includes Golden Circle VIP seating and a special meet, greet, and
photo with Fator prior to the show. Tickets can be purchased at the Las
Vegas Hilton box office or by logging onto
www.lvhilton.com ,
www.ticketmaster.com , or
phone at 702-732-5755 or 1-800-222-5361. Tickets for the December 31
show go on sale Saturday, November 10 at 10 a.m.
I’ll be back next week with more of what’s “happening” in and around Las
Vegas.
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