Las Vegas Shows Reviews

Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
Clint Holmes Show Tickets and Reviews

• Clint Holmes Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• Clint Holmes Show Tickets
• Clint Holmes Performing At: Harrah’s Hotel Casino

Clint Holmes at Harrah’s Las Vegas

Reviewed February, 2006 by Nancy Hruska
Though Vegas is known for shows where nearly anything goes, few entertainers would dare to mix musical genres such as Opera, Salsa, Broadway, and Jazz. Clint Holmes, however, has taken that road less traveled and the result is revolutionary enough for Rolling Stone to call it, “One of the most complex musical shows ever.”Any recognition such as that could cause a performer’s head to swell, but Clint Holmes views his talent a little differently. He constantly attributes the success of his show to his cherished (and most dynamic) band, his family, and the cultural diversity of his upbringing. His energetic and deeply personal show is a journey through music that takes even Las Vegas by surprise.This show is dedicated to all one of a kind entertainers and artists. Slides of Bill Cosby, Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jr. envelope the showroom. Clint opens with some songs by greats such as Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, and Ray Charles before immediately introducing his sister and singer, Gayle Thompson-Steele then his best friend and band conductor, Bill Fayne.After the formalities, no time is wasted before a little Latin Heat is turned up. Steel drums warm up the room with bongos, congos, horns, and Lead Guitarist Jerry Lopez’s impeccably strummed Flamenco chords. During the song “Canta con Migo,” it’s difficult to see how many band members there actually are, as they fluidly move in and out with new instruments constantly reinventing their outrageous sound. And Clint, no doubt, is the first to boast his band is nothing short of eclectic, able to play anything.The mood slows a little for Clintis original song, “1944″ about how his parents met. “Mom taught me how to sing correctly, Dad taught me how to enjoy it,” he proudly states. A personal trip into his upbringing is centered around his parents’ inter-racial relationship and a tribute to this controversial issue during such a time takes form in a piece from Broadway’s “Golden Boy,” sang by Clint and the lovely Natalie Caprano.

And the musical culture doesn’t stop there. Toes start to tap and fingers snap as audience members are taken deep into the Jazz world (Clint’s Father’s influence). Clint and his sister have a comical banter around “skat singing,” where Clint takes an ordinary bib-id-ibop to a new indescribable level. Then Clint’s Mother’s hand in his musical range is just around the corner when a piece from Phantom of the Opera is let loose.

With eight original songs, one in which even dares to express the feelings from his own brush with Cancer, Clint Holmes is not afraid of taking chances. Audience members are moved from one end of the musical spectrum to the other, experiencing electrifying sound, culture, and one of a kind showmanship. Nothing hides behind special effects to which all that one sees is what makes Clint Holmes, Clint Holmes- timeless music, band mastery, and humbly instilled true talent.

• Clint Holmes Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• Clint Holmes Show Tickets
• Clint Holmes Performing At: Harrah’s Hotel Casino

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
Neil Sedaka Show Tickets and Reviews

• Neil Sedaka Show Tickets
• Neil Sedaka Performing At: Orleans Hotel and Casino

Neil Sedaka

Reviewed June 15, 2005 Nancy Hruska

“I’m the king of Tra La La’s and Doo Wop’s,” Sedaka humbly confessed. It looks as though even after 4 decades of recording, Neil Sedaka is still able to make a rose-tossing full house at The Orleans cry and sing along to “Breaking up is Hard to do.” The truth is, no matter which age or demographic one belongs to; the heavy weight Pop pioneer will belt out some velvet anthem of which everyone knows the words.

His name sounds familiar to at least everyone with a record player, but who is Neil Sedaka? Oh just another face in the music industry; one of which had his songs recorded by the lesser known Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Not to mention a managing hand launching the careers of Neil Diamond, Carole King, and Paul Simon.

But no one should assume his seasoned career would give him any less energy on stage now than 40 years ago. The man can soft shoe and sing smooth hits as though it’s his first day in showbiz.His opening song had such classic visual and audio beauty with only Neil’s glowing grand piano, a vibrant celestial background, and a quiet ballad of his own naked notes. But business really began once the stage lights lit up his full band of strings, horns, drums, keyboard, and back-up singer to deliver the song on everyone’s agenda: “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen.”

To resist singing along to that one is futile. It would be impossible to stuff the work of countless platinum gold records and hit singles into one show, but Neil sure tried. One favorite hit “Calendar Girl” frenzied the crowd not only with the tune itself, but with the gigantic music video playing in the background. In 1961, “Calendar Girl” became the very first music video ever, complete with lovely ladies prancing around a strapping gent with a flawless voice (wonder who that may be?).

Another more sentimental song demonstrated Neil’s family values as he sang along with a video of his vocally gifted daughter in “Should have never let you go.” And although this was Neil’s show, he wasted no time for a song that celebrated the talent of one of his own favorite musicians, the late Dina Washington, as he sang along with visual and audio clips from her collection. But these examples are only a sliver of the life and energy the show has to offer. Yes, Neil sold 30 million albums in two years. Yes, he has recorded in 5 different languages.

But if one asked Neil Sedaka how he became so successful, how he has touched to hearts of multiple generations with music, he may bring things back down to earth with a quote he shared during his show, “Songs are like my children, they live and breathe every time I sing them.”

• Neil Sedaka Show Tickets
• Neil Sedaka Performing At: Orleans Hotel and Casino

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
Cook E. Jarr Show Tickets and Reviews

• Cook E. Jarr Performing At: Harrah’s Hotel Casino

Cook E. Jarr – Las Vegas’ #1 Lounge Entertainer

He’s the ultimate showman. He’s the entertainers’ entertainer and he’s at Harrah’s on the fabulous Las Vegas Strip. Cook E. Jarr, King of America’s Lounges is performing at upstairs at Harrah’s every Friday and Saturday at Midnight. Get those dancing shoes on and get ready to party the night away with Cook E. Jarr!

Cook E. Jarr has been voted Number One lounge performer more times than any other performer in the history of Las Vegas. He is well known for attracting big-name celebrities to his phenomenal performances.

The flamboyant performer has entertained Tom Jones, Liza Minelli, Oprah Winfrey, Montel Williams, Ricki Lake, Quentin Tarantino, Andrew Dice Clay, The Righteous Brothers, The Beach Boys, Frankie Valli, Grace Jones, Kevin Pollak, Paul Shaffer, Martin Short, Dennis Miller, George Carlin, Sheena Easton, Pete Rose, Riddick Bowe, Marvin Hagler, Sugar Ray Leonard, Jimmy Alec, Dennis Blair, John Caponera, Howard Cosell, Kool & The Gang, Michael Bolton, Whitney Houston, David Copperfield, Claudia Schiffer and countless comedians.

What makes The Jarr so popular among famous celebrities, Las Vegas locals, and tourists? One glimpse of his show and you’ll know why!

One of the reasons for his popularity is the man lives the Vegas life-style. “I’m a big gambler. People who come to see the show are in for a great time! I keep the crowds energized with a wide variety of music. I have so much fun, it’s not just singing and dancing, it’s one big party!” Jarr said.

He often starts his show with personally greeting the audience with high fives and handshakes. As soon as he hits the stage, the party begins.

His popularity also reached national attention. Popular music channels MTV and VH-1 interviewed Jarr for their rock ‘n’ roll specials. Cable TV station Comedy Central enjoyed their time with the Jarr so much — they have repeated his interview on the “Daily Show” several times.

Jarr can create the intensity and full sound of a large dance band. The night club atmosphere with his charismatic style will dazzle the audience! The charismatic performer keeps the audience glued to the stage with his unique vocal impressions and dazzling stage presence. The Jarr is seen in tailored jackets and adorned with diamonds and gold.

No where else will you find a show that combines the best modern music with the old standards and even some classic impressions of Las Vegas favorites including Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr. and a hysterically funny Jimmy Durante. Cook E. Jarr’s fans are legendary for their loyalty to him and after his performance you can see why!

Cook E. Jarr performs outdoors in the Carnival Court at Harrah’s every Friday and Saturday evening at Midnight. No cover, 2 drink minimum. His latest CD “Almost Grown” is available at his show. For more information, call Cook E.’s Hotline (702) 737-PROA.

• Cook E. Jarr Performing At: Harrah’s Hotel Casino

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Show Tickets and Reviews

• The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Show Tickets
• The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Performing At: Sahara Hotel & Casino

The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters

Reviewed July 9, 2003 by Ted Newkirk

The Platters, Beary Hobb’s Drifters, and Cornell Gunter’s Coasters

I was fortunate enough to have my parents in from out-of-town town, and have number relatives who live here so I rounded parents, aunt and uncle, cousin and even Grandma (ranging in age from around 30 to well past retirement) and away we went to see the Platters, Drifters, and Coasters. Wouldn’t you know it: everyone had a great time. I mean a really great, really fun time … as did the entire audience.

The late Cornell Gunter was the comic genius of the Coasters, and made the original group the “Clown Princes of Rock and Roll.” This continuance performs much of the comedic material he originally created, as well as treating us to memorable hits such as Lucy Brown, Love Potion #9, Yakty Yak, A capella, Twist, Poison Ivy and more.

The Platters kept the energy level up with their smooth renditions of some memorable classics and ballads. Only You, Great Pretender, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, My Prayer, Higher and Higher and more. Their smooth, uplifting performance really left everyone feeling great.

The late Elsbeary Hobbs was the original bass singer for the Drifters. It was his deep bass notes that are featured on There Goes My Baby, the hit that started a long line of
great Drifters hits and many feel helped influence what became the Motown sound.

Hobbs carried on performing into the 90′s. After his death, remaining members of his group continue the legacy. Radio staples such as This Magic Moment, Save the Last Dance For Me, Under the Boardwalk, There Goes My Baby and more spring to life in front of your eyes.

As noted, these aren’t the original member versions of the groups. Death and time have retired many of the greats who made the music famous. These continuations have various
ties to the originals, and keep the tradition alive with sharp outfits, the great choreographed moves famous during this era, and a top-notch level of professionalism and showmanship.

Whether this is the “soundtrack of your life” or you’ve just always enjoyed these time-tested classics, The Platters, Beary Hobb’s Drifters, and Cornell Gunter’s Coasters show is well worth enjoying.

• The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Show Tickets
• The Platters, The Drifters and The Coasters Performing At: Sahara Hotel & Casino

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
Sheena Easton Show Tickets and Reviews

• Sheena Easton Performing At: Aladdin Hotel and Casino

Sheena Easton

By Ted Newkirk
June 20, 2001

“My
Baby Takes The Morning Train” … “For Your Eyes Only” …

For most, those are the only two songs that come to mind when someone says Sheena Easton. So I admit to being skeptical when I heard that she was booked to play the entire summer at the Las Vegas Hilton with the possibility of extending the run if it went well. She had just finished a year-plus stint in “At The Copa” with David Cassidy but he was admittedly the star and main draw of that show.

If Ms. Easton has a “star” attitude, she certainly didn’t display it in this performance. After hitting the stage with a tight eight piece band, she ran through a number of standards and with a couple of disco songs thrown in for good measure from her latest European CD. In her stunning evening gown, it was pure lounge. Not the tacky, typical Vegas lounge but old-style classy.

She then took a few minutes to bond with the audience, talking about her kids, her career, and what it is like to be an 80′s sex symbol 20 years later. She joked that her rear end from the 80′s is still alive and well — and that Britney Spears is now using it! While she still looks great, the self-depreciating rant went over well with her (mostly) 30 and older audience.

Playing to a general “Vegas” audience, the odds are that people are coming more for the entertainment value than because they are die-hard Easton fans. Keeping that in mind, she was smart to integrate her hits from the 80′s with classic standards. No matter how you cut it (and how much many of us still enjoy it), music from the 80′s can’t help but sound a little dated.

She ran through “Strut” than did a duet with her percussion player on “U Got The Look” and “We’ve Got Tonight” as well as performing other hits from her repertoire. After letting her band shine in a jam that featured a short solo from each member, she emerged from a wardrobe change and whipped into “Fever” before singing the her obligatory hit “Morning Train.”

Then it was back to a duet on “If You Asked Me To” and “Best of My Love” featuring both her percussionist and her female backup singer participating in lead vocals. She had a very strong finish to the night with “For Your Eyes Only” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered.”

Easton was signed to play the 350 seat Hilton Nightclub but response has been so strong that many of her dates will take place in the main showroom that was once host to Elvis. She does a great job of entertaining and both her fans and those expecting to see a classic Vegas performance won’t be disappointed.

• Sheena Easton Performing At: Aladdin Hotel and Casino

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
Dream King Show Tickets and Reviews

The Dream King: Trent Carlini Tribute to Elvis

Reviewed February 14, 2001 by Ted Newkirk

Elvis has returned to the
building. His legend never left Las Vegas, but now when we think “Elvis impersonator” we think of a guy with a bad dye job, gold sunglasses, and very long sideburns who has seen way too many trips to the buffet. If that is your impression of a “Vegas Elvis”, you have not seen Trent Carlini.

Carlini’s show starts with a video tribute to Elvis, mixing clips of Presley with a Carlini narraration that is part tribute to Elvis and part the story of Carlini’s devotion and love of the music. When Carlini hits the stage, you have to do a double-take because he is virtually a head-to-toe living replica of the younger Elvis.

Throughout the 70 minute show, Carlini takes you through a journey of the various stages of the life of Elvis in song, and does so in matching costume. He appears first as the young Elvis, then performs more work from his early career in a military uniform, after a short but insightful video montage of actual Elvis army footage and interviews. From there, he dons leis and a hawaiin shirt to sing hits from Elvis’ movies.

After another short video, he performs a tribute to the ’68 comeback “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite” special complete with the black leather outfit. No tribute to The King would be complete without the “Vegas Years” with the big white jumpsuit and a lighthearted lauging version of “Are You Lonesome Tonight”. Elvis fans are probably familiar with the live Las Vegas version of said song done by Elvis where something got him going and he couldn’t stop laughing throughout a part of the song. This segment also included him handing out scarves to some of the lucky ladies in the audience. If you are a big Elvis fan (or just learned quite a bit watching the many TV specials and documentaries shown on cable TV), you will appreciate many of the nuances like the laughing part that Carlini tosses in.

I’ve seen plenty of Elvis impersonators here in Las Vegas, and most of them get by on the look and moves, with vocal’s that are just in the general vicinity of Presley. Even if you are just a casual fan, you can’t help but to be impressed not just by the physical appearance and moves, but by the voice. Just for fun, I looked well away from the stage a couple of times and just listened. Carlini sounds like Presley. Every note, every cadence, every breath. This was confirmed as I popped his CD in my car during the drive home.

Obviously, you are going to enjoy this show quite a bit more if you have even a remote interest in Elvis. It is a true tribute show, so don’t expect some guy up doing jokes or magic tricks. This show is Elvis. While there were plenty of couples and guys in the audience, it especially appeared to be a great “girls night out” show as the front row was filled with women doing a little screamng and hollaring.

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
American Superstars Show Tickets and Reviews

• American Superstars Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• American Superstars Show Tickets
• American Superstars Performing At: Stratosphere Hotel

American Superstars Stratosphere Tower

Reviewed November 8, 2000
by Ted Newkirk

American Superstars features tributes to Madonna, Michael Jackson, Charlie Daniels, Elvis Presley and Gloria Estefan (with a “limited engagement”. Ricky Martin at time of review). The show is a hybrid: One part celebrity recreation, one part 80′s rock concert, and one part Vegas show.

Elvis hit the stage first, with over-the-top renditions of classics like “Viva Las Vegas,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” and “Jailhouse Rock.” Done with elaborate lighting, sexy female dancers, and a live video shot of the fanfare shown on
sidestage screens (hallmarks of every act), he set the stage for an energy level that seldom let up.

Gloria Estefan put on a passable set of the singer’s hits, although getting by more on staging and movements than being a complete look-alike as was the case with most of the performers. However, with any “tribute” show, one must understand you are attending for the music and emotions recreated in a live setting.

I’m not a traditional country fan, but Charlie Daniels put on a rousing rendition of “Devil Went Down to Georgia” and patriotic favorite “God Bless the USA” as well as displaying some mind-bending fiddle work.

Madonna put on a nice set of hits from across her entire career, and (understandably) had great choreography with the dancers as well as displaying both the 80′s and 90′s Madonna look. Ricky Martin was next. Even though he was getting by more on looks and attire than singing ability, he seemed to be a hit with the ladies. Michael Jackson capped the show with a drop-dead rendition of his greatest hits, a look that could be mistaken for the real thing, and dancing moves that had to be seen to be believed.

American Superstars features Darren Lee as Elvis, Sandy Taggart as Gloria Estefan, Coty Alexander as Madonna, Damian Brantley as Michael Jackson and Johnny Potash as Charlie Daniels and also had an energetic 4 piece live band. One nice feature is that all of the performers as well as the dancers (in full Vegas showgirl costume) appeared in the lobby after the show to meet and greet and pose for photos with attendees.

Tickets for American Superstars at The Stratosphere are $26.95 plus tax for adults and $21.95 plus tax for children ages 5 to 12. Children under 21 must be accompanied with an adult, but with the exception of bare buns on the dancers during a couple of numbers, there is nothing remotely adult in the content.

• American Superstars Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• American Superstars Show Tickets
• American Superstars Performing At: Stratosphere Hotel

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Las Vegas Shows and Entertainment:
Legends In Concert Show Tickets and Reviews

• Legends In Concert Picture Gallery
• Legends In Concert Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• Legends In Concert Show Tickets
• Legends In Concert Performing At: Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino

Imperial Palace Legends In Concert

Reviewed November 1, 2000 by Ted Newkirk

Legends In Concert is one of those shows that people always say “We should get around to seeing that sometime because it looks like fun.” If you are a fan of pop music of the past 40 years or so, quit putting it off!

Legends has been bringing favorite entertainers to life at the Imperial Palace since 1983. This is NOT karaoke or some look-alikes lip-synching (fake singing to a tape). These entertainers dress the part, are almost perfect dead ringers for the celebrities they imitate, and use their own vocals to fill the role. In addition to the superstar
recreations, the show features a full troupe of dancers and background singers; a live, onstage orchestra; full array of solid special effects including multimedia and lasers; and great lighting and sound effects.

The “cast” of impersonators varies. A youthful Rod Stewart opened the show with a short, energetic set and probably the sexiest of the costumes the dancers would wear all night (the show features no nudity). From there, The Righteous Brothers (who play Las Vegas on a regular basis) were portrayed in their prime, as was the case with all of the acts. Madonna came out with a talented and sexy set that gave you the impression that the lady impersonating the icon had studied everything about her both on and off the stage.

“The Temptations” did the longest set of the night, and were a huge hit with the predominantly middle-age and older (40+) crowd, which showed enthusiastic approval! Marilyn Monroe was somewhat of a deviation from the pop star theme, but sang a couple of breathy numbers, had plenty of audience interaction, and brought one gentleman up on stage for a time that he won’t soon forget.

Elvis wrapped up the show with two segments: one as the young Elvis, and then the finale featuring the older “Las Vegas” Elvis complete with jump suit singing Viva Las Vegas with the full cast of the show and the dancers in full showgirl regalia, bringing the evening to a powerful conclusion.

Legends will be fun for anyone, but is particularly aimed at those who appreciate the stars from the 50′s through the 80′s (hence the designation “Legends”).

• Legends In Concert Picture Gallery
• Legends In Concert Streaming Video: Dial-Up or Broadband
• Legends In Concert Show Tickets
• Legends In Concert Performing At: Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino

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