By Judy Thorburn This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
Director of Communications - Nevada Film Alliance
http://www.theflickchicks.com
Vaudeville Inspired "Grand Ole Vegas Revue" Opens at Plaza Showroom
Vaudeville is alive and well and kicking up a storm in The GRAND OLE VEGAS REVUE, the newest show to open inside the Showroom at the Plaza Hotel and Casino in downtown Las Vegas.
Grand was the defining word on Wednesday, December 5, beginning with the “Grand” Opening of the GRAND OLE VEGAS REVUE. And, by the reactions of those in the audience, a “grand” time was had by all who experienced 90 minutes of good clean fun and entertainment inspired by what was the original variety show, vaudeville theatre of the 1900's.
Long-time “Phantom” performers, Jonathan Gorst and his wife, accomplished classical dancer/ ballerina Marisa Gorst, are the co-producers and creative forces behind the Grand Ole Vegas Revue. With Jonathan as musical director/ emcee and pianist and Marisa as lyricist, choreographer and featured performer, the duo have gathered some of the most gifted, top notch performers to complete the superb cast. There is no weak link as each and every member of the ensemble including Enoch Augustus Scott, William Finch, Kate Gordon, Solinea Orinski, Lee Scott, Nellie Norris and Scotty Allen are simply terrific.
Together they deliver a wonderful mix of fast paced oldie but goody comedy skits, gags, one liners, and song and dance from an era that is long gone but definitely not forgotten with a couple of more contemporary or timely, humorous bits thrown in. There are also a couple of surprises including a few “readings” that are guaranteed to garner roars of laughter, a hilarious parody of some of the most acclaimed shows on the Las Vegas strip, and even Elvis.
“There’s something truly magical about the simplicity of this show,” says Johnathan Gorst. “We’ve got one piano, a handful of actors, and a whole lot of heart and soul. There’s nothing to stand between the actors and the audience. The result is an enchanting intimacy that’s also comfortable because nothing is taken too seriously.”
Jam packed with a series of silly to sensational, well performed routines, The Grand Ole Vegas Revue is a welcome addition to the downtown Las Vegas entertainment scene that should please even the toughest critic. Don't miss this little gem. Like everyone who has already had the pleasure of seeing this show, you too, will have a “grand” old time.
Showtimes for The GRAND OLE VEGAS REVUE are 5pm on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and Wednesdays in the Showroom at the Plaza Hotel and Casino. Tickets are $59.95 VIP, $49.95 adults, $19.95 children. A pre-show old-fashioned sing-along begins approximately 15 minutes before curtain, featuring classics such as “Ain’t She Sweet” and “I’ve Been Working On The Railroad.” Lyrics will be provided for your convenience.
Grand Ole Vegas Revue cast
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Grand Ole Vegas Revue cast performing the 'One Minute Drama'
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Grand Ole Vegas Revue cast performing
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Grand Ole Vegas Revue skit
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Enoch Augustus Scott, William Finch
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Enoch Augustus Scott, William Finch
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Jonathan Gorst with mayoral proclamation
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Lee Scott
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Kate Gordon
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mairsa Paull Gorst and Jonathan Gorst
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Scotty Allen, William Finch, Lee_Scott and Jonathan Gorst
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Solinea Orinski, Marisa Paull Gorst and Nellie Norris
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Jonathan Gorst and his wife Marisa Paull Gorst at the after party
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
'Legends' creator Johnny Stewart, Monti Rock III and friend
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
'Fantasy' star Lorena Peril
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Ray Jon Narbaitz, Kate Gordon, and Lorena Peril
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Violin virtuoso Lydia Ansel and Zowie Bowie (Chris Phillips)
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn
Mayor Carolyn Goodman Celebrates Grand Opening of Commonwealth with Ribbon Cutting
Mayor Carolyn Goodman and Councilman Ricki Barlow celebrated the one-of-a-kind 12/12/12 with the grand opening of downtown's newest addition, Commonwealth.
The evening started with a red ribbon cutting and a toast of Guinness beer with partners Ryan Doherty, Mike Parks and Kenna Warner where Mayor Goodman suggested beer mustaches. Following the ceremony, Mayor Goodman was given a personal tour by the owners including the eclectic art collection and the 2,000-square-foot rooftop where she and Councilman Barlow played a round of the Bimini Ring Game and got a first look at the DJ booth designed by Gabriel Culp. Mayor Goodman was so impressed with the 1952 air compressor tank that she unofficially named it, “Alfred.”
Mayor Goodman presented the owners with a City of Las Vegas Certificate of Recognition marking the grand opening of Commonwealth followed by her best wishes. The opening night continued with guests arriving to check out Fremont’s stylish addition and its signature cocktails including Great Odin’s Raven, a blend of Bacardi rum, Jim Beam bourbon, simple syrup and cream; and Sidecar, a classy mix of Hennessy VS Cognac, lemon and simple syrup.
Commonwealth, a swanky 6,000-square-foot cocktail bar, is a collision of art and architectural influences inspired by pre-Prohibition era design and libations; complete with its very own backroom speakeasy. Crystal chandeliers bring a touch of elegance to the overall design, which evokes a worn, industrial ambiance. The cocktail menu combines classic and progressive methods and ingredients to offer drinks like, “Let’s Get Naked and See Who’s Stronger” and “Little Hot Mess,” that make an indelible impression. A rooftop bar offers an experiential setting with an urban brick feel and 360 degree views of downtown.
Located at 525 E. Fremont St., Commonwealth is open Wednesday through Friday from 6 p.m. to close and 8 p.m. to close on Saturday and Sunday.
Kenna Warner, Ryan Doherty, Mayor Carolyn Goodman, Councilman Ricki Barlow and Mike Parks with beer moustaches
Kenna Warner, Ryan Doherty, Mayor Carolyn Goodman, Councilman Ricki Barlow and Mike Parks cut the red ribbon at Commonwealth
Kenna Warner, Mike Parks, Mayor Carolyn Goodman and Ryan Doherty with the Certificate of Recognition
The Mirage and Wrangler Partner to Donate $10,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure
The Mirage Hotel & Casino showed off its ‘tough side’ as the Las Vegas resort turned pink and hosted Wrangler® Western Wear’s official “Tough Enough to Wear Pink™” After-Party Monday, Dec. 10. The party was held in conjunction with the fifth performance of the 2012 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (Wrangler NFR) event where rodeo attendees and contestants were encouraged to wear pink, showing support for the initiative.
As part of the partnership, Wrangler donated $10,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure – Southern Nevada Affiliate, a charity specifically selected by The Mirage. Executives from both The Mirage and Wrangler were on hand during the check presentation.
Photo courtesy of The Mirage Hotel and Casino
“We are honored to partner with Wrangler to host their Official Tough Enough to Wear Pink After-Party,” said Traci Preus, vice president of Marketing and Advertising at The Mirage. “The money raised for Susan G. Komen will stay in southern Nevada and help those affected by cancer. We are committed to our support of this wonderful cause and look forward to hosting this event for many years to come.”
As the leader in Western lifestyle apparel since 1947, the Wrangler® brand has used its strength and association with the rugged cowboy lifestyle to honor breast cancer survivors and the brave women and men who continue to battle the disease. The Wrangler TETWP campaign has raised more than $12.5 million for breast cancer charities. Most of the money raised stays directly in the community. The grassroots movement has inspired other sports communities to mount their own Wrangler TETWP campaigns, spreading a message of hope and support that reaches beyond the rodeo arena to competitors, families and fans across America.
Photo Caption: Shannone Hart of Chicks ‘n Chaps; Jeff Chadwick – Director, Wrangler® Western Wear; Stephanie Kirby, Executive Director – Susan G. Komen for the Cure – Southern Nevada Affiliate; TETWP After-Party performer Maggie Rose; and Traci Preus – Vice President, Marketing and Advertising at The Mirage at the check presentation, held during the After-Party at The Mirage.
Wounded Veterans Honored with Holiday High-Roller Weekend at the Palazzo Las Vegas
The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas collaborated with the Armed Forces Foundation and Omaha Steaks® to give back to our nation's wounded veterans with “Salute Our Troops”, an event that included an all-expense paid holiday vacation where the luxury resort is celebrating “Winter in Venice”™, a celebration of the winter holiday season on the Las Vegas Strip. From Dec. 5 to 8, the troops were treated to an array of world-class holiday festivities, entertainment, dining and relaxation.
Nearly 40 wounded warriors were flown via a private 747 from the military hospitals Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Fort Belvoir, Va.
Upon arriving to The Palazzo by police motorcade escort, the troops were greeted by more than 1,000 Palazzo and Venetian team members and guests lining the casino floor, cheering and waving American flags. With tears in their eyes, many held signs that read “You Are Our Heroes” or simply, “Thank You” while they applauded and shook hands with soldiers as they passed by. As the soldiers made their way through the crowds and into The Palazzo’s atrium gardens, they were in awe from the overwhelming reception and the sheer excitement of being in Las Vegas. Many of the soldiers had gone straight from combat to the hospitals and now to Las Vegas—a trip that marked their first time away from the hospital since being admitted.
To kick off the welcome ceremony, the Nellis Air Force Base Honor Guard presented the Colors while the students from the Adelson Educational Campus led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Philanthropists Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson, chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands, and Patricia Driscoll, president and executive director of the Armed Forces Foundation, addressed the veterans, expressing gratitude for their courage and sacrifice.
“I was overwhelmed by the welcome reception we have received. I didn’t think anyone cared about us, but not anymore,” says Sgt. Melanie Taylor from Fort Belvoir's Warrior Transition Battalion and who also recently returned from Afghanistan.
“It’s a way of showing respect for these guys who come out here. We don’t get thanked a lot or enough. It’s good to see that (The Palazzo and The Venetian) are willing to do this kind of thing for them by showing them a good time in Las Vegas,” says Corey Reedy from the 57th maintenance squadron at Nellis Air Force Base.
The weekend marked the eighth time Dr. and Mr. Adelson, with The Sands Foundation, have hosted the nation’s wounded warriors at the property since the event began in 2007.
During their holiday vacation, the wounded warriors will enjoy not only the events of Winter in Venice, but also lavish accommodations, tours of the Las Vegas Strip, and tickets to opening night of the intimate Soul2Soul show starring Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, as well as tickets to Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at The Palazzo Theater. They will also have the opportunity to enjoy the ultimate sports fan experience at Lagasse’s Stadium, poker tournaments, gondola rides, services at Canyon Ranch SpaClub®, and a gourmet cookout hosted by Omaha Steaks at Madame Tussaud’s Las Vegas.
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak/ImagesofVegas.com
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak/ImagesofVegas.com
Photo credit: Robyn Andrzejczak/ImagesofVegas.com
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
After more than 15 years of planning, the NEON MUSEUM, a Las Vegas historical institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of some of the city’s most distinctive architectural landmarks has opened for locals and visitors alike at 770 North Las Vegas Blvd.
Home to a collection of more than 150 neon signs dating from the 1930s, the Neon Museum is the largest collection of neon signage in the world and a unique record of Las Vegas’ colorful history. Inside a two-acre outdoor museum space known as the Neon Boneyard, iconic signs from the city’s most celebrated properties — including the Moulin Rouge, the Desert Inn, the Flamingo and the Stardust — are displayed alongside those from various other bygone restaurants, hotels and businesses. The museum’s new visitors’ center is located on-site in the recently rehabilitated La Concha Motel lobby, the seashell-shaped, Mid-Century Modern architectural masterpiece designed and built by architect Paul Revere Williams. Originally constructed in 1961 on Las Vegas Boulevard South, next to the Riviera Hotel’s current location, the La Concha lobby was saved from demolition in 2005 and moved to its current location in downtown Las Vegas in 2006.
Guided tours of the Neon Museum’s Neon Boneyard are available Monday through Saturday every half hour starting at 10:00 a.m., with the last tour departing at 4:00 p.m. Capacity for the 45-minute tour is limited. Guests should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before their tour is scheduled to begin. Admission prices are: $18 for adults (12 years of age and older). $12 for students, seniors ages 55 and over, veterans and Nevada residents (students and residents must show valid, current ID to receive discounted pricing). Children ages 6 and under are free.
BELLAGIO was honored last week as North America's Leading Casino Resort at the 2012 WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS CEREMONY in New Delhi, India.
The AAA Five Diamond Las Vegas resort has been recognized as North America’s Leading Casino Resort, an honor Bellagio has received for four of the past five years
Hailed as “The Oscars of the Travel Industry” by The Wall Street Journal, WTA highlights and rewards travel brands that have made the greatest contribution to the industry during the past year. A delegation of VIPs, senior tourism figures and international media traveled from around the world to attend this year’s event.
PT's Entertainment Group, operator of PT's and Sierra Gold taverns, and the Shane Victorino Foundation are again hosting A TOY DRIVE BENEFITING LOCAL CHILDREN OD CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SOUTHERN NEVADA, THE SHADE TREE AND MATTHEW'S CLOSET. Major League Baseball All-Star Shane Victorino will be in attendance at Sierra Gold, located at 6515 South Jones Boulevard at I-215, for the event on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE is celebrating the opening of its 21st Las Vegas Valley location on Monday, December 17 at 12:15 p.m. A ribbon cutting will officially open a North Las Vegas store, located at 445 W. Craig Rd., #103
The 1,750 square foot location will offer catering, online ordering and a drive-thru.
Following the ribbon cutting, the store will officially open to customers who can enjoy 99-cent smoothies all day until 11 p.m.
In honor of the holiday season, BLUE MAN GROUP is offering Nevada residents TWO TICKETS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE to its new captivating show at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, now through January 27, 2013. To receive the two-for-one deal, locals can show their Nevada ID and mention the code “LOCALS” at the Blue Man Group Box Office or call 877.459.0268. The offer is available on Category C: Standard View only tickets and subject to availability. The offer is not valid in conjunction with any other discount or on previously purchased tickets.
In support of National Blood Donor Month the cast of EVIL DEAD: THE MUSICAL at V Theater inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino invite the public to donate blood during an event on Friday, Jan. 4. United Blood Services will have donor-equipped vans at MaximuM Comics, located at 7950 W. Tropical Parkway, Suite 120, just north of Ann Road, from 3 - 7 p.m. All donors will receive a free pair of tickets to Evil Dead: The Musical and a comic book from MaximuM Comics.
福Fú, an Asian dining destination bringing good fortune and great food to patrons has opened at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Meaning “luck” in English, 福Fú features a fusion of Asian fare with authentic Chinese cuisine and regional inspirations including Korean, Vietnamese and Thai fired up by prominent Las Vegas resident and Executive Chef Ming See Woo. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
The KATT WILLIAMS performances planned for January 18 and 19, 2013 at the Pearl Concert Theater have been canceled. Guests can return to the original point of purchase to obtain a refund. Credit card purchases will be automatically refunded.
The California Lottery Commission recently voted to adopt the multi-state, mega-jackpot lottery game, POWERBALL. Sales will begin at the Primm Valley Lotto Store on April 8, 2013, and the first drawing will take place on April 10, 2013.The Primm Valley Lotto Store is located just 25 minutes south of Las Vegas, at 31900 S. Las Vegas Blvd. in Primm, on the Nevada/California state line. It’s open Monday – Saturday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sunday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Celebrity Sightings:
On Friday night, Dec. 7...
Comedian Russell Peters stopped by TAO to take in the sounds of DJ Politik with friends visiting from New York.
Comedian Dave Chappelle was spotted checking out the Library room at Marquee with friends.
Crown Royal superstar Tilden Hooper took a break from bareback riding at National Finals Rodeo to meet hundreds of excited fans at Señor Frog’s Las Vegas at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino.
Tilden Hooper with Crown Royal girls at Senor Frog's Las Vegas
Saturday, Dec. 8...
Actress Pamela Anderson, and magician Criss Angel partied together at Las Vegas’ Moon Nightclub in Palms Casino Resort. The duo was there for Taboo of Black Eyed Peas’ performance after catching the Pacquiao and Marquez fight.
Criss Angel and Pamela Anderson
Photo credit: Joe Fury
Miss July 2007, Tiffany Selby, hosted Crazy Horse III's "Babes & Buckles" bash for NFR revelers.
Tiffany Selby on the red carpet at Crazy Horse III’s “Babes & Buckles” bash.
Photo credit: Scott Harrison www.HarrisonPhotos.com
Tiffany Selby and beautiful cocktail servers get down and dirty during NFR at Crazy Horse III’s “Babes & Buckles” bash.
Photo credit: Scott Harrison www.HarrisonPhotos.com
The 2012 Miss Universe contestants celebrated their kick-off to the 61st annual Miss Universe competition at PURE. Once settled in their VIP booths the reigning Miss Universe Leila Lopes headed to the DJ booth where she took over the turntables as a guest DJ.
Miss Universe contestants
Photo credit: Gabe Ginsberg
Miss Universe contestants and reigning Miss Universe 2011 Liela Lopes (center)
Photo credit: Gabe Ginsberg
Also spotted partying at PURE Nightclub were actor and comedian Dave Chappelle, actor Brian Greenberg and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
“Dancing with the Stars,’” Las Vegas cast member Anya Garnis, and founder of the Pussycat Dolls, Robin Antin, had dinner at Meatball Spot at Town Square. Excited to celebrate a friend’s birthday, Garnis and friends were treated to a Birthday Cake Milkshake for dessert.
Anya Garnis and friends at Meatball Spot at Town Square Las vegas
Robin Antin enjoying chicken meatballs at Meatball Spot
Nelly hosted a post-fight party at TAO treating club goers to a surprise set of his hits. The Grammy Award-winning rapper even helped his friend Jake celebrate his 21st birthday at their VIP table in the club.
Nelly performs for the crowd
Photo credit: Al Powers/Powers Imagery
Nelly performs for the crowd
Photo credit: Al Powers/Powers Imagery
World Boxing Association light middleweight world champion, Austin Trout, was spotted partying with friends including R&B artist, Ray J, celebrating the post-fight in Chateau Nightclub at Paris Las Vegas.
Austin Trout poses at Chateau Nightclub
Ray J, Austin Trout, AP9 and DJ J Nice party at Chateau Nightclub
Actress, country pop singer and songwriter Jennette McCurdywas spotted dining with three guests at Social House located inside Crystals at CityCenter.
Sunday, Dec. 9...
Actress Sofia Vergara and fiancé Nick Loeb were spotted watching the New York Giants game at Blondies Sports Bar & Grill inside Miracle Mile Shops.
Dancing with the Stars All Star Champion Melissa Rycroft and her husband Tye Strickland, dined at TAO.
apl.de.ap of the Black Eye Peas was spotted at LAVO as was newlywed and Extra TV host Mario Lopez.
Monday night, Dec. 10...
Poker pro, Antonio “The Magician” Esfandiari, who is ranked #1 for all-time tournament poker winnings,celebrated his 34th birthday at Marquee. Esfandiari was surprised with a magic hat cake adorned with playing cards and poker chips as he partied at a VIP table on the dance floor with Olympian Michael Phelps and friends while taking in the sounds of Eric DLux.
Photo credit: Hew Burney
Photo credit: Hew Burney
