Las Vegas Shows Reviews

• Toxic Audio Las Vegas Tickets

by: By DW Grant

“Toxic Audio,” what the heck is that?

It’s one of best small shows in Vegas; and at half the price its just as much fun as The Blue Man Group, moves with just as much energy as Gans or Newton, and delivers just as many laughs as a night out with the Second City comedy troupe.

So, what is it? It’s Voice, and all voice. Not a sound comes from the stage that isn’t produced by someone’s voice. Drums, guitars, sax, bass, and some mysterious musical modulations come out of the mouths and noses of these performers with such amazing clarity you can then understand why the promotional icon is a guy with a microphone for a head.

It’s five singers with no back up band or recorded tracks pumping out “Autumn Leaves” in English, French, German, Korean, Scat, and Pig Latin. Its Paul Sperrazza, a “human beat box,” tearing up the audience like a mix of Jim Carey, Jerry Lewis, and that guy who almost won American Idol last year. It’s also Rene Ruiz, the founder of the group, whose credits include “Forever Plaid,” delivering a unforgettable show to a cheering audience.

Oh and there are 4 other performers making it happen for the audience too; Christine Vienna, Tim Jones, and Heather Friedman, and the “sound guy. The sound guy gets his own song during the show and definitely deserves his own sentence in this review, his name is Shannon Brady. There is no band to coordinate but he’s does a heck of job keeping five very good singers in perfect balance.

Simple, but too big for the room, Toxic Audio has been playing a weird 5:30 pm slot at The Planet Hollywood’s V-Theatre for a few months or so. I’m glad I caught it early before word of mouth got out because this show is going to play at better times and tickets are going to get harder to get. Thank god Planet Hollywood is expanding the theatre!

Toxic Audio has been traveling the country and the world since it was discovered by Disney at the Orlando International Fringe Festival in the late 1990s. It played to packed houses at the Jazz Club in Pleasure Island at Walt Disney World, and set up off-Broadway in 2004, where they won the 2004 Drama Desk Award for “Unique Theatrical Experience.” It was crowned champion at the National Harmony Sweepstakes in California in 1996, and did a brief stint at The Luxor, here in Las Vegas, in 2005. Vegas now has its own Toxic Audio troop, including two original cast members, while other “Toxics” have to travel the country. Hurray for us!

You have to like a team of singers who can improv a beat box song about Pat and Debbie Boone and who will play “Jaws” with its audience. As a matter of fact the audience is almost the 6th player in the troop. Four or Five audience members are brought on stage at different times in the 70 minute show, and singers perform in the isles just a frequently.

Toxic Audio is family friendly too, mixing it up with TV themes from “Route 66″ and “I Dream of Jeannie,” a better than The Muppets version of “Menomena,” and an eerie but beautiful surround-sound version of “Stand by Me.” They even “put the lime in the coconut” and make hacking and coughing sound lyrical. Some fresh beat box crash brings the kids back in and rounds out a great show built for everyone.

Some of these vocals are tracked on the Toxic Audio “Chemstry” CD along with other fun songs you didn’t hear in the show like “Easter Island Head” and “Paperback Writer,” the old Beatles fave, done the Toxic Audio way. Of course the CD is available after the show to those of us who didn’t get a free one for taking part in the performance.

It’s hard not to give a standing ovation to a show that already has you on your feet clapping and cheering. “Toxic?” No, I would much rather rate it “addictive.” I’m going back to see it again.

• Toxic Audio Las Vegas Tickets

Comments Off

• La Cage Las Vegas Tickets

by: Nicole “Niko” Acevedo

Believe it when you see it! There’s no need to go back in time to experience the legendary Diana Ross and sophisticated Judy Garland, and you don’t have to squint your eyes to witness the dance moves of Michael Jackson and Britney Spears in large overcrowded stadiums. Why not intimately see them all on the same evening at the snazzy zebra-striped Mardi Gras Pavilion of Vegas’ one and only Riviera Hotel & Casino?

Presented by stunning female impersonators of famous celebrity superstars such as Madonna, Celine Dion, Cher, Dolly Parton, Britney Spears, Judy Garland, and the mega-diva Diana Ross, you will be so enthralled by their performances that you will forget that they are in fact merely impersonating! When “Celine Dion” performed “My Heart Will Go On”, her passionate facial expressions and mannerisms were flawlessly identical and encompassed a witty charm. For a moment I was so excited to catch one of her final Las Vegas performances at Caesar’s Palace until of course I realized Bette Midler had already replaced the show.

Oh? Maybe I am at Caesar’s Palace after all… “Bette Midler” is now singing “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” up and down the stage!

For those with the fashion flare, you will delight in the “Gucci” and alternate designer gowns and furs flaunted by host Frank Marino while presenting each artist of the evening, not to mention the revealing and “voguish” outfits of the artists themselves. Speaking of vogue, performing “Music” and “Express Yourself” in le cabaret de La Cage, “Madonna” is the two-fold slim, sexy pop icon in the form-fitting white cowgirl suit and hat and the hysterically burly-beautiful, cone-breasted-corset expression of… well… herself.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg until the provocative “Britney Spears” allures you with her black leather outfit and gesturing dance moves, you will hope she’ll “do it again.” Finally now that you’ve forgotten that you’ve been watching impressionists, you won’t leave without additional astonishment as they reveal their deep-seated transformation in a heartfelt presentation.

Curious about the rest of these talented and seductive women and the King of Pop, “Michael Jackson”? Totaling twelve mirror image impersonators, visit these dazzling gentle-ladies of the La Cage Theater at the classic Riviera Hotel & Casino as they celebrate their 22nd year of elegant artistry, comedy, and sensuality. Souvenirs of La Cage are available in t-shirts, an 18-page photo book of all the stars from the past 22 years of production, and a 90 min. DVD of the show.

La Cage Las Vegas is so intimate in fact, host Frank Marino (as Joan Rivers) remarked that if his G-string broke they would lose the whole front row! Voted “Best Entertainer of the Year,” Frank Marino engages audiences with such comedic excitement and charisma that you are sure to laugh out loud as did the diverse group of younger and older “experienced?” persons during the evening of my attendance.

This is by far one of the most enjoyable and entertaining shows I have seen. If you’re looking for an evening of fun and laughter, great dance music and classic hits, and just an overall playful night out on the town, this is the show to go see!

• La Cage Las Vegas Tickets

Comments Off

• Stomp Out Loud Las Vegas Tickets

by Erin Guernsey

For those seeking high-energy entertainment, comedic antics and pure theatrical brilliance look no further than Stomp Out Loud located at The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Don’t let the show’s humble opening of one lonely cast member sweeping the stage fool you as it barely gives a hint of what is to come.

Every night the talented performers take audience members on a journey through the world of rhythm and percussion. The show throws the definition of a traditional musical instrument out the window by creating magnificent sounds from the most random objects such as keys, lighters, trash cans and lids, brooms, sand, plastic bags and of course … kitchen sinks.

As you enter the Stomp Out Loud Theatre you are greeted by a kaleidoscope of junk. The theatre designers managed to make this hodgepodge of items appear to be art on the walls instead of looking like someone’s trash can exploded. The stage itself is also filled with a plethora of mismatched items which will later be creatively incorporated into the show by the cast. Another distinct feature of this production is its costuming. You won’t find any lavish gowns or fancy wigs in Stomp Out Loud. These amazing performers wear simple street clothes that allow plenty of freeform movement.

There are two segments during the show that stand out and are a true testament to the genius of the show’s creators. The first segment involves cast members each taking various lengths of rubber pipes and beating them on the stage to create an alluring sound like no other. As you sit in your seat the melody slowly creeps inside you and then leaves you wondering if the notes you just heard actually came from rubber pipes. The other segment uses different-sized boxes filled with a mixture of dried beans and ping-pong balls. The boxes are thrown and pushed around the stage in a beautifully choreographed dance that must have taken an eternity to rehearse.

One character steals the show with his impeccable comedic timing as he tries to stay in line with fellow cast members, but usually receives the short end of the broom. His hijinks are sure to keep you laughing throughout the entire performance.

Stomp Out Loud is the perfect addition to a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a date. This spectacular show will leave you exhilarated and in awe of how so much intense energy was packed into 90 minutes.

• Stomp Out Loud Las Vegas Tickets

Comments Off

• Folies Bergere Las Vegas Tickets

by Chuck Stanec

Raw. Provocative. Sexy. Alluring. Just a few words among many that can be used to describe Les Folies Bergere at the Tropicana. If you’re looking for a trip into Las Vegas past, this is it – without the DeLorean.

When one thinks of old Vegas, they envision the big, bold shows with the tall and supple women and the huge, bright feathers that adorn them. The energy, the passion, and the colors all appease the senses as you’re engulfed into history. The transient experience makes it feel as if you can walk out of the theater and sit down with Dean, Frank, and Sammy for a drink.

Perhaps the fact that Folies has been in Vegas since the time of the Rat Pack is what gives it that timeless feeling. Folies Bergere has been a staple at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino for nearly 50 years. The latest version of which chronicles American history as well as the history of the showgirl. Folies is a whirlwind through time and space with gorgeous women and the most pristine of costumes. The dance numbers and intertwined comedy personify the fad that swept the nation in the early 1900′s – Vaudeville.

While Vaudeville was becoming an American classic in the 1920′s and 30′s, the Folies had been running in France since 1869 and did not have its first nude showgirl until 1918. Folies Bergere gained its first exposure in the United States on Christmas Eve, 1959, at the Tropicana’s Fountain Theater. In 1975, the show moved into the new, better equipped, Tiffany Theater and has remained there ever since. Also, in 1975, the reigns of the Folies Bergere were handed over to Jerry Jackson, who is still the creative mind behind the show. Most notably, Jerry designed the 100th Anniversary show in Paris in 1966.

No other Vegas show opens with a topless rendition of ‘NSYNC’s “Dirty Pop”, but this is not just another Las Vegas show. True, the opening act does tastefully depict scantily clad women thrusting their agile bodies about the stage, but there is so much more offered. A gorgeous prima ballerina graces the stage and hypnotizes the crowd with her beauty and elegance; flowing costumes that, if one sits close enough, really show the girls are having fun; one priceless stage comedian that gives himself a medal every time he completes a trick injury free.

Like any show of its kind, Folies Bergere is not complete without its Can-Can. Every performer takes the stage in what becomes a routine unto itself. In fact, there is so much going on that one would have to view Folies 2-3 times just to catch it all. Unfortunately, like all good things, the show does come to an end. However, not before you’ve been cast through time and have been able to catch glimpses of what Vegas – and France – use to be.

The Folies Bergere has captivated the minds and imaginations of the thousands in its wake. One can be fully immersed into the show. You will quickly find yourself lost in time – warped even – through the 90 minutes spectacle. The changing scenery, slap-stick humor, and flamboyant costumes will leave you searching for words. But, that will pale in comparison because all the while, you’re still trying to spot that lovely dame that danced off with your heart during Act One.

• Folies Bergere Las Vegas Tickets

Comments Off

• Mac King Comedy Magic Show Tickets

by Bethany Dixon

In the second row of Harrah’s Showroom Theatre, ten-year-old Micah Oka says, “My favorite trick is when you tell your friends’ future with their shoe. You hold the shoe and you say: You are going to go for a short trip verrrryyy soooooon…” He pauses for effect and stares very seriously over his Harry Potter-like glasses. “Then you throw their shoe so that they have to go get it! Get it!?” Micah grins, delighted. He’s been reading magical comedian Mac King’s books for half of his life, and getting the chance to see his mentor live is making it difficult for him to sit still. His enthusiasm is contagious, and the buzz in the purple and gold theatre is electric from those who know what they are about to see.

The Mac King show at Harrah’s Showroom Theatre is a stand-up comedy magic show. Mac King includes volunteers from the audience, a few props, and a surprising camping guest in his one-man act. The show has been running at one and three in the afternoon Tuesday through Saturday since January 11, 2000. He is also known for his “Mac King’s Magic in a Minute,” the nationally syndicated Sunday comic strip that he co-creates with his brother, a graphic designer. Mac King’s particular brand of magic is extremely popular with young readers because of his line of Magic in a Minute kits that include props and easy to follow instructions. Mac King also wrote “Tricks with your Head: Hilarious Magic Tricks and Stunts to Disgust and Delight,” with how-tos on making your head disappear, poking a fork into your eye, and giving a cat “chiropractic” care. He also holds the 2004 Guinness World Record for the longest game of telephone ever played.

Looking at the audience doesn’t give you any idea of what to expect from the show. Some are dressed for church drinking bottled water and talking in low voices. Others rush to the bar to make sure they have enough libations for the next 70 minutes. There are grandmothers and teenagers, young marrieds and bachelors on an all-boys getaway. The lights dim and “If You’re Happy and You Know it, Clap Your Hands,” plays over the loudspeakers. Nostalgic, the trio of businessmen in their thirties behind me stamp their feet and shout hooray with the local seventy year old couple to their left. When the curtain rises, the showman faces an audience already laughing and clapping.

“Howdy, I’m Mac King,” he says with a shrug and a smile. Mac King hails from Kentucky. His twang coupled with his plaid used-car-salesman-chic suit will make your sixteen-year-old think that the show is going to be a snoozefest. But, Mac King pulls everyone in with his first rope trick, and the crowd is on the edge of their seats for the next hour. He pays attention to his audience, and they return the favor. He acknowledges the interrupting whoops and hollers when an onstage volunteer tells him she’s from Ontario, and quips, “Everyone’s a Canadian.” Another volunteer writes her name on the back of the card instead of the face, ruining the trick. “Could you come back every time and do that? It’s funnier that way,” he says.

Mac King is remarkable. He has put together a refreshingly (but not squeaky) clean show. The only PG-13 material is told so that it sails over the kids’ heads and you don’t have to worry about questions on the way home. In fact, the only question they will be asking after the show is, “How did he DO that?!”

He makes us laugh by putting on his ridiculous yellow raincoat of invisibility and impresses us later when he really disappears. When the lights come up after his encore trick, Mac King waits in the lobby and greets his audience, thanking them individually.

“Tell your friends about my show,” he says, “I’d like to keep this job.” He shouldn’t worry, anyone who sees him perform will be talking about it. Mac King’s act is one of Vegas’ treasures. Signed with Harrah’s in 2000 for a two-year contract, The Mac King Comedy Magic Show has currently been extended through 2011. As they are leaving the theatre, Micah and his friends go to the stage and pick up snipped pieces of the rope from his opening trick, examining the ends. “It’s just plain, cotton rope!” “How did he DO that!?” “I’m going to keep it and see if I can figure it out!” They tie the ends together and rush out to the lobby to wait in line and ask him personally.

Mac King is exciting and funny on stage and off. He’s working with Spread the Word Nevada, Inc., a nonprofit corporation working to distribute books to underprivileged and at-risk children. Audience members are encouraged to donate a new or gently used book at the show to receive a free autographed Mac King Tricks With Your Head book.The organization focuses on giving books to keep, not just to check out from the library. “The looks on their faces,” he says with a smile, “It’s like getting a pony.” I thanked him for the interview and he shrugged like he did when he introduced himself on stage for the first time and said; “It’s not anything really spectacular…it’s just me.”

Mac King’s Mayberry-flavored show would never be considered edgy. He doesn’t have scores of special effects coordinators or body-painted dancers high-kicking in sequence. His magic doesn’t require mirrors, smoke, or caged animals. It’s glitz-free, and it’s not very Vegas. But Mac King can rely on something that a lot of Vegas performers go without: both a passion to share with the audience and a talent worth sharing. It’s nice to see a show that doesn’t pretend to be more than it is. Mac King is a magician and a comedian. And the funny thing is; he’s magic.

• Mac King Comedy Magic Show Tickets

Comments Off

• Bodies – The Exhibition Las Vegas Tickets

by Mark Marino

Las Vegas has never been shy about showing off the human body, but Tropicana has given their guests a lifetime opportunity to view many bodies more intimately than ever before. BODIES is an eye widening exhibit that offers a compelling way to understand the amazing and complex layers of the human machine.

Through a process of special preservation, once dead body tissue is rubberized with a silicone polymer and resurrected to a live human form. The world of inventive science and modern medicine present itself in a museum full of real bodies and parts. The entire body is dissected and reassembled for an absolutely lucid and intriguing look at everything piece by piece. Often times these specimens are completely out in the open, allowing guests to get as close as they like and stare without hesitation into the intricate structures that belong to all of us.

The exhibit is broken down into several rooms with each one dedicated to a specific bodily system. People can literally take a tour of their own skeleton, or see the normal framework of human blood vessels standing up in front of them. From the inside out, people can witness the workings of the human heart. Watch it grow strong enough to pump every drop of blood through its normal cycle every minute we are alive. How about seeing laser cut cross sections of humans sliced as thin as a pancake?

Viewers are also given unique insight into their own health by observing the physical differences between a normal organ and a corrupted one. This is perhaps best demonstrated in the respiratory room where a healthy lung is shown right beside a blackened smoker’s lung. People can actually peer into the display and see what emphysema and lung cancer look like, this is possibly the most visually effective no smoking ad ever.

Over the course of touring each room, people may find themselves amazed at how far science has taken us into understanding the mysteries of our own body. At the same time, it is equally humbling to realize how little we individuals really know about what’s under our own skin. The decisions we make about eating, drinking, and exercise play out here in a way that leaves lasting impact and encourages healthy choices for everyone.

This exhibition is both educational and entertaining with optional audio clips for different age groups. There are also several living bodies on hand to answer any questions about general health or any of the 275 specimens on display. After this viewing, any observers will be left with a fresh appreciation for every day that all these parts come together to sustain life. This exhibition is true testament to the beauty and value of our natural curiosities and admiration for the human story.

• Bodies – The Exhibition Las Vegas Tickets

Comments Off