Show Review: V The Ultimate Variety Show – An Evening Of Excitement, Thrills, And Comedy

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by Guy Chapman

Tamara's hoops at V - The Ultimate Variety Show

With so many shows on the Strip that focus on elaborate costumes, orchestrated musical scores and cutting edge special effects, it’s nice to see a show that really goes back to variety show foundations in covering solid entertainment in its purest form. For an evening of excitement, thrills, and comedy, show-goers will get to experience a truly fun outing in “V – The Ultimate Variety Show” at the V Theater in the Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino.

MC Wally Eastwood juggles at V - The Ultimate Variety Show

Hosted by juggler extraordinaire Wally Eastwood (who was featured “America’s Got Talent”), a surprisingly diverse and entertaining variety of acts take place on the theater’s intimate stage. As the MC, Eastwood performs a variety of impressive aerial object-based feats that have to be seen to be believed. And if you like classical music played on a piano, it’s highly unlikely that you’ve ever seen it performed in the way it’s showcased here. I don’t want to give away any surprises but your mouth will open in awe.

Tap dancing brothers Sean and John at V - The Ultimate Variety Show

The performance seen for this review had a variety of fantastic talent. Among the numerous highlights of the show are the tap dancing brothers Sean and John, the Russian team of Iouri and Nikoli with an amazing hand balancing act, the Aerial Expressionists, that take their performance into and over the crowd, Melinda – The First Lady of Magic ,that will leave the crowds guessing at her mind-bending illusions, the Skating Aratas, a roller skating act that has to be seen to be believed, and the Argentinean comedy team, The Crazy Gauchos, that provides laughter through their unpredictable performance while bouncing witty banter between each other and the crowd.

Skating Aratas at V - The Ultimate Variety ShowEach new talent and team brings something new to the show, ensuring that no show is ever exactly the same, resulting in an evening that brings the best of the Vegas entertainment experience to one location while staying fresh. The show itself is family friendly, so it truly provides and all-ages type of experience that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a “clean” show without concern of more racy elements. And for those that want a closer experience, show patrons can purchase VIP tickets that allow viewers to sit really close to the stage (and enjoy a little interaction in the show, depending on which performer needs a “victim” to participate).

“V – The Ultimate Variety Show” is a great way to spend an evening with the kids, or for someone who wants to get more of an “all in one” experience of what the Las Vegas Strip has to offer. Its diversity and accessibility make this a show that will definitely be remembered long after the final curtain call.

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Show Review: Defending The Caveman Needs No Defending

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by D.W. Grant

Kevin Burke spears underwear in Defending The CavemanThis “Caveman” don’t need no defending. It’s a man’s show, with women encouraged to attend.

The Las Vegas/Broadway show, now playing at Harrah’s Comedy Club, is a hilarious evening of understanding “The Man,” his burps, scratches, sex, and beer drinking. After this show every woman will understand why men are not jerks, or #&*s, as is said vehemently at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end of this show.

Kevin Burke has been soloing in this play for 10 years or more and it shows. His delivery is real and his connection to his audience is deep. More than a show, “Defending The Caveman” is like sharing a beer with your brother-in-law in his man cave. Man to man you can talk about women and scratch your loins without reproach. You can brag about your sex life, and complain about the “old woman,” knowing your boasting and whining won’t go beyond the cave walls. They won’t, unless some playwright decides he wants to make a Broadway show out of them.

It’s no wonder “Defending The Caveman” is the longest running solo play in the history of Broadway. It’s funny, irreverent, and the perfect date night show. It has also been performed all around the world, before more than 8 million people, in 30 different languages, in 45 countries.

The play’s writer, American actor and comedian Rob Becker, says the show is supposed to show that “men have emotions, but express them differently.” Indeed we do, and DTC shows them off well.

Most importantly after each show every man in attendance will be able to stand up with Kevin Burke, hoist his spear over his head, and declare “I am not a #&*s!” I did, but in much gentler words.

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Show Review: Rock Of Ages – Nothing But A Good Time!

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by Sarah Jane Woodall

Mark Shunock and Justin Mortelliti - Credit Denise Truscello

Fire up the Aqua Net and dig out that sleeveless jean jacket – Rock of Ages has hit Vegas, and it’s bringing the ‘80s back! The latest musical to hit the Vegas strip hearkens back to the glory days of heavy metal – the days of mascara, muscle tees and mullets. If you grew up listening to this music, you will love Rock of Ages. And if even if you didn’t… you’ll have a blast. It’s impossible to sit through this show without smiling, laughing… and singing along!

Like many so-called “jukebox musicals,” Rock of Ages uses previously existing music to patch together a storyline – in this case, ‘80s hairband rock and power ballads, virtually every one of which you will recognize. It’s hard to believe that the music our parents warned us about has become so mainstream – but you’ll recognize many of these tunes from commercials, movies and general pop culture ubiquity. But what’s really amazing is how well this stuff holds up – as cheesy and dated as it is, this music still rocks!

Justin Mortelliti and Carrie St. Louis - High Enough - Credit Denise TruscelloRock of Ages’ plotline is little more than an excuse to skip from one familiar anthem to the next – boy meets girl at an L.A. rock ’n’ roll club. Both have dreams of stardom, which are threatened when an evil developer plots to tear down the club to put up a Footlocker. The troops are rallied, power ballads are sung, fists are pumped and lighters are waved in the air… and everything leads to a big crazy happy ending. It’s an old-school feel-good show – nothing too deep or artsy; just fantastically bombastic rock music, over-the-top costumes, truly inspired comedic acting and pure, unadulterated fun.

Rock of Ages is a Broadway-style two-hour show with a 7-minute intermission… .but you hardly notice the time passing, as everything is so much fun. The music is big, the hair is bigger…and the energy is GINORMOUS! Thanks to an exceptional cast, who are clearly having the time of their lives, along with an amazing live band, you’ll find yourself dancing in your seat. I challenge you to dislike this show; it’s impossible. The stage sets are impressively designed, and the entire theater has been given an ‘80s makeover, with vintage signage and posters and neon lights. Even the bartenders wear ’80s rocker attire – everyone’s in on the act!

If you’re looking for a no-holds-barred, tongue-in-cheek good time, look no further. Rock of Ages is probably the most fun you can have in Vegas with your clothes on – your shredded denim and snakeskin clothes, that is!

Rock Of Vegas - Full Vegas Company - Credit Denise Truscello

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Show Review: Recycled Percussion – “Junk” Instruments Meet Off-Beat Comic Sensibility

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by Terri D’Richards

Recycled Percussion ladders and drums

With a Motley Crue meets Oscar the Grouch opening number, Recycled Percussion sets the tone for their show, blending dynamic Rock style performance, “junk instruments” (power tools are instruments — aren’t they??) and off-beat comic sensibility. They also have no objection to letting the audience share in the enthusiasm, as “the most interactive show on earth” makes sure everyone has their own drumstick and pot, pan or toaster to beat on throughout the proceedings. The results give a whole new meaning to “Rocking the joint”.

Recycled Percussion began building a loyal following from its inception in the mid-90’s, pursuing a path that eventually lead to a appearance on America’s Got Talent where they became the first non-singing act ever to place in the top three. Other television appearances on The Today Show, Carson Daly and The Soup followed as the group continued on a course leading to the Las Vegas strip.

Recycled PercussionFirst taking up residency at The Tropicana and later moving over to the AGT revue show at Planet Hollywood, Recycled Percussion now makes its home at The Quad (aka the newly rebranded/remodel-in-progress Imperial Palace). The band has taken its act to another level here, adding new material and production value, not to mention… Cookie Time! This incarnation of the show also provides more insight into some of the individual personalities and background of the group.

Charismatic Recycled Percussion founder Justin Spencer keeps the controlled chaos lively and in check while also maintaining his friendly rivalry with equally energetic percussionist Ryan Vezina. Prankish DJ Todd Griffin and no-holds-barred guitarist Matt Bowman complete the foursome. Together they form a tight-knit unit, treading a circuitous line between daredevil performance artists, over-the-top Rock musicians, and slapstick comedians.

The appeal succeeds in reaching a wide cross section of audience: female fans can’t ignore the hunk factor, males respond to the Rock ‘n’ Roll mixed with goofiness, while Moms, Dads, and kids can’t resist the family friendly atmosphere. Where else in Vegas – or anywhere – can your 8 year old bang on the table and it’s okay? Heck, even Grandma might give those lovable Recycled Percussion rascals a pinch on the cheek. Just remember to bring her earplugs!

Cast of Recycled Percussion bows

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Show Review: Million Dollar Quartet – Incredible But True

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by Terri D’Richards

Million Dollar Quartet finale scene

Shake, Rattle or Roll but DO get yourself to a performance of “Million Dollar Quartet” for an unforgettable evening of Rock ‘n’ Roll history and live performance. Harrah’s newly remodeled showroom hosts the Las Vegas version of this hit Broadway and touring production, which gives audiences a fly-on-the-wall perspective into a once-in-a-lifetime event that took place December 1956: the convergence of 4 legends in Rock ‘n’ Roll history.

Million Dollar Quartet - Marc D Donovan as Sam Phillips

Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and… the one and only Elvis Presley came together for an incredible but true jam session at Sun Records in Memphis, the studio that launched all their careers. Partly fate, partly some manipulation on the part of Sun founder Sam Phillips, the night as depicted on stage provides background on each musician’s roots and personas, a glimpse into the music industry of the time, and musical hit after musical hit performed live on stage with drums and stand-up bass rounding out the ensemble.
Million Dollar Quartet - Felice Garcia as Dyanne and Tyler Huter as ElvisBut please do not mistake the premise as just another tribute show. Instead, be prepared for a reminder of how these original Rock gods created a template for the lexicon that still resonates with audiences of all ages today — the beats, the riffs, the delivery packed with true heart, soul and swagger.

A handsome and impressive stage set provides the necessary look and feel of the humble Sun Records studio. As the show opens, Sam Phillips has already sold off his #1 boy Elvis to RCA in order to keep Sun Records afloat. Now RCA wants Philips himself on their payroll, understanding only too well that Philips has tapped into a new sound and market that’s light years ahead of other industry execs at the time. But Phillips would rather remain at the helm of Sun Records and seeks to lock fast-rising star Johnny Cash into a contract renewal deal. Meanwhile, Elvis would love nothing more than the opportunity to work with his mentor Sam Phillips again. And just so it’s not a total boys’ club, Elvis’ girlfriend, singer Dyanne, has come along for the night.

Million Dollar Quartet, Martin Kaye as Jerry Lee Lewis

Will Cash re-sign with Sun? Will Jerry Lee make a hit record? Will Elvis get to work with Phillips again? Even the most casual Rock music historian knows the answers. But “Million Dollar Quartet” isn’t about learning how things turned out. It’s about the music! And it is in the musical performances that Million Dollar Quartet shines. Whether watching the acrobatic piano virtuosity of Jerry Lee Lewis, the distinctively mixed musical style of Johnny Cash, the guitar rooted passion of Carl Perkins or the King himself, Elvis – not to mention a couple of sultry, show-stopping female vocal performances by Dyanne – the show leads us to the inevitable finale that has audiences on their feet, in the aisles and leaving the theatre talking about how much feel-good fun and enjoyment they had at this show.
Million Dollar Quartet - Robert Britton Lyons, Tyler Hunter, Benjamin D. Hale

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Show Review: Donny and Marie – A Lifetime Of Showbiz Honed To Perfection

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by Sarah Jane Woodall

Donny and Marie perform at The Flamingo

Vegas is full of has-beens who have seemingly crawled through the mists of time only to reemerge on the Strip in half-baked spectacles showcasing highlights from their long-dormant careers. I fully expected Donny and Marie Osmond to be two such performers – I mean, how long has it been since either one of them had a hit? In the theatre, I made sure to order a stiff cocktail from the waitress, to help me get through what was sure to be an unbearably hokey show… and settled back, ready to start making snarky comments to my date.

Then Donny and Marie came on… and my socks were completely knocked off. They are fantastic!

Donny & MarieI never thought I’d be writing a review praising Donny freaking Osmond, but… he’s an amazing performer. And so is his sister! A lifetime in showbiz has honed both of their skills to perfection – they know how to work a stage, and a crowd, until even the jaded cynics (ahem) are won over. Their energy, self-deprecating humor, and unflagging enthusiasm grab hold of you in a completely irresistible way. Within the first few moments of the show, I found myself grinning uncontrollably – the show is that much fun.

Using a fairly elaborate stage set involving lights, props, an incredible band and a spunky troupe of dancers, Donny and Marie proceed through their entire catalog of hits, going all the way back to their early days (watching 50-something Donny croon “Puppy Love” with charmingly self-deprecating humor is a Vegas must-see). The astonishingly versatile Marie blazes through a smoking-hot country-rock medley, then reappears moments later in an elegant gown to sing opera. There’s no genre these two can’t handle, as Donny proves later on with his hard-rocking, infectiously danceable remix of “Soldier of Love.”

Watching Donny & Marie was one of the very few times I can remember not wanting a show to end – it was that much fun! I came in not knowing much about either one of them – I never watched their TV shows growing up, and didn’t know many of their songs – but I left the theatre a newly-minted fan. Donny and Marie are pure, unadulterated fun – classic Vegas entertainment, in the best sense of the word. And the show is safe for all ages – the headliners adhere to their squeaky-clean images throughout, yet somehow manage to keep even hardened cynics like me entertained.
Donnie and Marie perform at The Flamingo Las Vegas
Resistance is futile! Go see Donny & Marie… you won’t regret it!

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Show Review: Evil Dead 4D: The Musical – Interactive Comedy And “Horror”

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by Guy Chapman

Evil Dead Ash's hand cut off

“Evil Dead 4D: The Musical” isn’t your standard musical. Then again, it isn’t exactly your standard show on the Las Vegas Strip. But its uniqueness is what sets it apart and makes it work, being the Strip’s only production based on a movie at the only casino themed around the excitement of film: Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino.

“Evil Dead” has the distinction of being the first show that started in Las Vegas on the local theater community level (The Onyx Theater) before getting its premiere on the Strip. Now calling the V Theater its home, the show sets to push its own boundaries, delighting fans of the series, and giving showgoers something they’ve never seen before.

Evil Dead Ash and cast

Based primarily on the first film (with heavy references to “Evil Dead 2” and “Army of Darkness”), “Evil Dead 4D: The Musical” tells the story of five college kids that set out for a fun-filled weekend in an old abandoned cabin way out in the middle of the woods. When the kids unwittingly unleash demonic forces from the Necronomicon (an ominous Book of the Dead bound in flesh), chaos and a healthy number of song and dance routines ensue.

It’s that tongue in cheek attitude that makes this show part comedy, and part messy horror piece. And messy it is. So much so that the show promotes its own “Splatter Zone”, a premium seating experience that allows the first few rows to be utterly doused in the production’s various gory effects that the “Evil Dead” series is known for (Don’t worry, though: The production has perfected their formulated blood to be completely machine washable, and there’s even a souvenir T-shirt included in the experience).

It’s this level of interactivity that truly makes the audience part of the show. Characters will riff with the audience as much as they do with their undead counterparts, making each show different from the last, ensuring that the “fourth wall” doesn’t even exist. And of course, no “Evil Dead” experience is complete without the swaggering bravado and fast paced one-liners of its main protagonist, Ash. While Bruce Campbell’s portrayal in the films is inarguably the signature version of the character, this production makes sure that the essential goofy machismo is part of the show’s titular S-Mart employee.

Evil Dead chainsaw

“Evil Dead 4D: The Musical” is a humorous, blood spouting good time guaranteed to be unlike any other experience on the Strip. The show itself is gearing up for its 100th show by April 2013, and plans to stay around to entertain its fans until the very last Deadite is slain with a chainsaw.

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Show Review: Entertainer Frankie Moreno – A Steady Momentum Of Talent

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by Terri D’Richards

Frankie Moreno on stage wtih muscians

Welcome to Frankie’s house! Kick back, relax, have a drink and rock the experience where old Vegas Rat Pack retro collides with modern swagger style. Voted Best Strip Headliner by Las Vegas Weekly and Best All Around Performer by the Las Vegas Review Journal, this singer-songwriter earns his titles nightly, demonstrating all-around musical virtuosity in an accessible personality package — one moment busting a Jerry Lee Lewis like move on the piano, the next moment busting out a bottle of Crown Royal to pour shots for any audience members who approach the stage with an empty glass.

Cracking wise and playing music his way, Frankie doesn’t rely on smoke, mirrors or acrobats to entertain us. Instead, audiences are treated to a pure display of talent and showmanship, with many female fans also noting the performer’s easy-on-the-eyes factor adding to his overall appeal.

Backed by the now rarely-seen-in-Vegas LIVE band, Moreno showcases his instantly hummable original songs along with fresh takes on classics by other artists, most notably, a collaboration with world-renowned violinist Joshua Bell which resulted in the #1 Billboard charting single of The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby”. No stranger to notoriety, Moreno gained national attention as an 11 year old piano prodigy on “Star Search”.

Frankie Moreno with his brother Tony on bassFlash forward a bit to find him not exactly a household name, but backing artists such as Air Supply and country sensation Billy Currington. Throughout, Moreno remained a regular fixture on the Las Vegas scene, honing his chops for the last decade in smaller lounges and piano bars up and down the Strip, accompanied by a 3 piece band including brother Tony on bass. From there, a steady momentum of talent and perseverance eventually lead to this residency at The Stratosphere, further bolstered by the Billboard success, a break out performance on “Dancing with the Stars”, and a Frankie Moreno station added to the Pandora internet radio.

Frankie Moreno singingIn his new incarnation at The Stratosphere showroom, the line-up has been filled out to include a 3 piece string section and a 3 piece horn section, which Moreno uses to great effect in jazzing and livening up his sound and presentation in accordance with the larger venue, creating an energetic live concert experience. Brother Tony still serves as solid bass man and willing side-kick for Frankie’s extemporaneous, sometimes irreverent stage banter. Another brother, Ricky, also shows up intermittently to provide comic relief of a different sort.

Like a classic jazz improv, the show proves exhilarating and entertaining for its performers as well as its spectators, making everyone a true participant with the feeling that, as Frankie sings in his original song “A Million Roads”, right now this moment is the perfect place to be.

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Show Review: Anthony Cools – Good, clean dirty fun like nothing you’ve ever seen

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by Sarah Jane Woodall

Anthony CoolsHypnotism – it’s not just for quitting smoking anymore! Long recognized as an effective way to tap into the human subconscious for practical reasons, the art of hypnotism has lately been co-opted by pranksters. Some devilish genius figured out that it’s just as easy (and much more fun) to hypnotize people for impractical reasons – and the next thing you know, a cottage industry was born. These days, there are several comedy hypnotists playing their trade on the Vegas Strip…the best-known of which is Anthony Cools.

What sets Cools apart from the competition? His rakishly smarmy charm, of course! Other comedy hypnotists might be more family-friendly or wholesome in appearance, but…come on! Did you really come to Vegas to see family friendly?! I didn’t think so! At the Anthony Cools show, you’ll see women humping chairs and talking to their privates… all triggered by the “suggestions” of dissolute ringmaster Cools. It’s good, clean dirty fun – and like nothing you’ve ever seen. Be prepared to laugh A LOT!

At the start of the show, Cools asks for volunteers. Anyone who wants to can come onstage and take one of the twenty or so seats provided, and once all the seats are filled, the lights are dimmed and Cools begins his hypnotic spiel, putting the volunteers into a deep trance. As the show goes on, Cools tests his volunteers to see how deeply hypnotized they are, and weeds out the resistant ones until he’s left with a dozen or so truly, deeply hypnotized subjects. And that’s when the fun starts!

Over the next hour or so, Cools offers “suggestions” to his crew of volunteers – making them believe they’re doing and experiencing things that clearly aren’t really happening. Most of these suggestions are of an adult nature – he has little old ladies believing they are auditioning for a porno movie, and blushing women believing that their vaginas are talking. The final bit has Cools convincing his volunteers that when he shakes their hand, they will experience the most Earth-shattering orgasm of their lives. It’s a riot!

Because it’s a volunteer-based show, no two performances are the same – it all depends on who’s in the crowd. This also makes for a fantastically diverse show – old, young, black, white, male, female, uptight or mischievous….you never know who’s going to get up onstage! But one thing’s for sure – you will definitely be entertained, and you will definitely laugh yourself silly.

And if you’ve ever wanted to be in a Vegas show, here’s your chance – when Cools calls for volunteers, grab one of the chairs onstage and hang on for the ride of your life! Don’t worry about missing the fun, either – DVDs of each show are recorded and made available for purchase after each performance. Either way, even if you don’t realize what you’re doing at the time…your friends will never let you forget it!

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Show Review: iCandy Las Vegas – A Sexy Night On The Town

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by Guy Chapman

iCandy girls twirling

When it comes to the art of burlesque, there are two things to take into consideration: Have a little bit of tease, and leave the rest to imagination. For that reason, the talented ladies of iCandy The Show at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino put on a show that is both polished and sexy, while remaining true to form to the spirit of burlesque.

Located within the Saxe Theatre in the Miracle Mile Shops, the showroom treats awaiting patrons to a collection of film clips of vintage burlesque dancers (including Bettie Paige) as guests find their seats. These clips certainly give a taste of the bygone days of burlesque during its peak, and set the tone for the rest of the show.

The show itself, makes it a point to highlight both a little bit of old and new to provide a fusion of neo-burlesque. The art of burlesque, for those unfamiliar with what it is truly about, is not a full strip show, as is all too common in Vegas. Viewers will not experience nudity, but they will have an experience that is a tantalizing line of sensuality that wouldn’t be found with a mere strip show.

iCandy purple

A varied, half-dozen of incredibly beautiful girls (highlighted by featured performer Jennifer Romas) will strut their stuff during the show with an astounding array of costumes for each act, along with a male emcee that works with the girls through a number of acrobatic and choreographed events. This performance will give both men and women some true “eye candy” as its name implies.

As a burlesque show is more than just tease, there are a number of variety style acts that break up the dancing. A few of the girls sing as they perform, to a comedy performance by the always hilarious Kathleen Dunbar. Dunbar portrays a harried stage manager and mother throughout the performance, starting her monologue with all the trials and tribulations that the girls put her through, to voicing her own eager interest in wanting to become part of the show as “one of the girls”. It’s a fun, recurring performance that allows people to catch a much needed breather between all of the performers.

For a sexy night on the town featuring modern dance mixed with classic style seductiveness, iCandy The Show will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth for the tastefully erotic, and is a show that will leave you breathless for more.

But fear not! There is actually a “meet and greet” as you exit the theater for photo ops with some of your favorite performers, so that your memories will last long after you’ve left Las Vegas.

iCandy 5 girls in black boots

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