Vegas Happenings 3/22/23
Vegas Happenings 3/22/23
What to do...Where to go...Who to see in Las Vegas round the clock.
Inductees Honored at 19th Annual UNLV College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame Awards
The 19th Annual UNLV College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame awards took place in the UNLV Student Union Ballroom on Tuesday evening, March 21. The gala event, which honors those past and present residents of Nevada who have made a significant impact in the areas of visual arts, performing arts and/or architecture, included a reception, dinner and ceremony.
This year's list of inductees and award recipients included Emmy and SAG Award winning actor and comedian Brad Garrett, most known for his role as "Robert Barone" on the iconic television series Everybody Loves Raymond. He was not able to attend because he was out of town busy filming a new Paramount TV series, but he appeared via a video message stating that this recognition was “truly and honor” , before jokingly adding, “Who said no before they came to me?”
Las Vegas Review Journal entertainment columnist John Katsilometes took the stage to pay tribute to his friend. He stated that among Garrett’s many achievements was opening his own comedy club in Las Vegas where he occasionally headlines, as well as being active in charitable causes, including founding the Maximum Hope Foundation (named after his children Max and Hope) in 2007 that offers urgent financial relief to families caring for a child with a life limiting illness.
Inductee Virko Baleyas’s many achievements include a Jacyk Fellow at Harvard Ukranian Research Institute and distinguished professor of music, composer-in-residence, and co-director of NEON, an annual composers’ conference at UNLV, and inductee James Stanford was honored as a multimedia artist well known for transforming historic neon signage and architectural elements of Las Vegas into mesmerizing modern mandalas.
Two award recipients honored posthumously were Gloria Dea (who passed away the week before at age 100) the first person to perform magic on the Las Vegas Strip, debuting in 1941 at 18 years old at the El Rancho Hotel, and Clarence Gilyard, actor and professor at UNLV, best known for his roles as “Conrad McMasters” on Matlock and as “Jimmy Trivette” on Walker, Texas Ranger. He passed away on November 23, 2022 at age 66 and was honored as both an inductee and well as recipient of the Koep Dean's Medal, the first in the UNLV Hall of Fame history. Paying tribute to Gilyard was his close friend, producer and director Gary Brown, who worked with the former actor when he directed him on the TV series Walker Texas Ranger. Brown stated that Gilyard was dedicated to his students that he taught and was committed to passing on his craft.
Also recognized with the Koep Dean's Medal was Las Vegas legend, singer/comedian/entertainer Nelson Sardelli, born in Brazil to Italian family, he immigrated to the U.S. in 1956 at the age of 21, became an American citizen in 1962 and in 1965 moved to Las Vegas where began performing on the famed Las Vegas Strip, opening shows for Judy Garland and other stars. Accompanying Sardelli were his daughters Giovanna and Pietra who came to the podium to praise their father before introducing him. Sardelli stated that he was “indeed honored to stand here tonight. Humor and levity are used when I am in a situation this, when I am a loss of words”. He went on to joke about all the letters that must have been sent demanding he be inducted, adding that he wrote them all, which drew roars of laughter from the crowd. Before leaving the stage Sardelli said, “Las Vegas is my city. You are my people. It’s moments like these that validate that Las Vegas is my my home. I belong here.”
Fine Arts Alumnis of the Year were Cecilia Schafler, landscape architect, designer, educator, founder, and president of Lage Design, named in honor of her grandmother, her first design instructor, and Dwayne Eshenbaugh, award-winning, Las Vegas-based architect and ardent humanitarian whose firm, NOVUS Architecture, employs 10 UNLV alumni.
Each of the inductees have made Nevada richer for their cultural contributions, are an inspiration to students, and help ensure that UNLV remains one of the nation's top fine arts colleges.
This year's honorees join past inductees such as Wayne Newton, Siegfried & Roy, Liberace, Penn and Teller, Lance Burton, The Killers and more.
Proceeds from this event will benefit the UNLV College of Fine Arts students.
New York-New York Hotel & Casino Celebrates ST. Patrick’s Day With Las Vegas’ Largest Holiday Festival, Celtic FEIS
New York-New York Hotel & Casino celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with its 19th annual Celtic Feis festival. The all-day event was the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Las Vegas and commenced with a lively parade throughout the hotel featuring a traditional Irish pipe band; live music from multiple bands and DJs; and traditional Irish fare from Nine Fine Irishmen.
After the parade concluded, Patrick Miller, Senior Vice President of Hospitality at MGM Resorts International welcomed the crowd with a traditional Guinness toast to kick off the Celtic Feis events. The toast was followed by songs from the Irish pipe band.
“Celtic Feis has been a staple in celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in the Las Vegas valley and we are honored to host the largest celebration in the city,” said Mike Neubecker, President & COO of New York-New York. “We look forward to celebrating our 20th annual Celtic Feis next year with a momentous event bringing locals and visitors together.”
Festival goers were able to watch live performances from several local bands including Celtic Chaos, Las Vegas Emerald Society Pipe Band, Sin E Ri Ra, Celtic Rockers and the Sticky Wicket Duo, in addition to DJ sets from DJ TA4 and DJ JC. Entertainment throughout the day included stilt walkers and leprechauns greeting guests.
A selection of Irish fare from Nine Fine Irishmen also was served throughout the day with a menu featuring corned beef cabbage spring rolls with Guinness mustard; Irish whiskey braised short rib with mashed potatoes, whiskey and mushroom demi; and corned beef and cabbage served with potatoes, carrots, cabbage and parsley sauce.
14th Annual ST. Baldrick’s Day Event Raises over $220,000 for Childhood Cancer
On Saturday, March 18, New York-New York Hotel & Casino raised more than $220,000 to benefit the St. Baldrick’s Foundation during its 14th annual head-shaving event and is expected to reach the goal of $300,000 as donations are still being received.
Guests of all ages enjoyed a fun day on the hotel’s iconic Brooklyn Bridge with live entertainment and celebrity guest head-shavers, as participants shed their hair to raise funds and awareness for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation’s efforts in the fight against childhood cancers. Funds generated at this event are pivotal in supporting research focused on improving treatment options and finding cures for all childhood cancers.
Throughout the day, 134 participants had their heads shaved by Las Vegas celebrities including cast members from shows such as Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil®, FANTASY, Thunder From Down Under and Chippendales and performers including Donny Osmond and Piff The Magic Dragon amongst many others.
Below photos credit: MGM Resorts International
Highlights from this year’s fundraising effort include:
John McManus, MGM Resorts’ Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary was named the largest St. Baldrick’s contributor in the United States. As a longtime St. Baldrick’s volunteer, McManus has raised over $2 million through his individual fundraising efforts.
Notable shavees include the Baldrick Boys, who started participating 11 years ago when they were in elementary school; a woman from Michigan who made the impromptu decision to shave her head three hours before her son’s wedding; and participants as young as six years old.
The culinary employees of New York-New York Hotel & Casino donated $20,000 to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
Las Vegas Review-Journal entertainment columnist John Katsilometes was appointed a St. Baldrick’s Knight Commander at New York-New York Hotel & Casino for his continued support over the last decade.
For the first time in the event’s history, a celebrity shaver braved the shave in support of St. Baldrick’s. Enoch Augustus Scott of Zombie Burlesque shed his locks with help from the cast of Chippendales.
Las Vegas Aviators’ Spruce the Goose and The Aviator were in attendance to take photos and cheer on volunteers as they braved the shave.
The all-day event was co-hosted by a variety of Las Vegas media personalities including JJ Snyder, Shawn Tempesta, Feven Kay, Jaclyn Marfuggi Caprio, Kayla Walker, Sammi Reeves, John Katsilometes and Mad Apple’s Harrison Greenbaum along with James Healey, Director of Hotel Operations at The Signature at MGM Grand.
For over a decade, New York-New York has rallied the local community resulting in millions of dollars raised for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
The Unauthorized Harry Potter Experience Celebrates 1000th Performance Inside Horseshoe Las Vegas
Continuing to cast a spell on Las Vegas, the hit, family-friendly show: The Unauthorized Harry Potter Experience - A Parody by Dan and Jeff, celebrated its 1000th performance at The Magic Attic showroom inside Horseshoe Las Vegas on Thursday, March 16, 2023. In addition, the show has extended its run at Horseshoe Las Vegas through December 2023. Created by two-time Olivier Award-nominated BBC Television actors Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, the show debuted at Bally’s Las Vegas on June 4, 2019. Both audiences and critics have embraced the show, which currently stars Nicholas Charles and James Edwards. The two performers were joined by the show’s creators and original stars, Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, who flew in from the UK for a whirlwind 48-hour Las Vegas celebration.
The perfect show for muggles, witches and wizards of all ages, this production of the boy-who lived’s story combines all seven books into 70 hilarious minutes. The cleverly curated show includes all of your favorite characters, perfect Potter props, and even a live Quidditch match!
Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Potter Experience plays inside The Magic Attic showroom at Horseshoe Las Vegas, Monday through Sunday at 8:00 pm (dark Wednesday) with matinee performances Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 pm. Tickets are on sale now, and prices range from $49.99 to $99.99 + taxes and fees. Tickets can be purchased at any Caesars Box Office.
Bodies…The Exhibition Unveils Newest Alternative Limb at Luxor Hotel and Casino
BODIES…The Exhibition at Luxor Hotel and Casino unveiled Materialise, a new alternative limb as part of the ongoing partnership with Alternative Limb Project on March 8. In celebration of International Women’s Day, BODIES…The Exhibition honored the inspiring work of Sophie de Oliveira Barata, Alternative Limb Project founder, custom prosthetic limb designer, producer, and one of the Materialise creators, who spoke on the mission of the Alternative Limb Project and the concept behind the exhibition’s newest installation which focuses on what’s there instead of what’s not.
Featuring two distinct sides, Materialise creates a visual connection between the wearer’s physical and metaphysical self. While the underside of the arm is a highly realistic, expertly created silicone representation of the physical body, the upper half is made up of unique, interchangeable sections, each representing a different emotional and spiritual aspect of the wearer’s personality.
“It’s wonderful to see this reimagined body part amongst the specimens inside BODIES…The Exhibition that are also deconstructed,” said Sophie de Oliveira Barata, Alternative Limb Project Founder.
The Alternative Limb installation is dedicated to showcasing the amazing possibilities of transhumanism, art as alternative limbs, and promoting conversation, positivity, and inclusion. In addition to the newly unveiled Materialise installation, the Cuckoo alternative limb is currently on display inside BODIES…The Exhibition. Cuckoo is a contemporary and timeless prosthetic leg featuring a working cuckoo clock, bell and pendulum carved from two blocks of cherry wood.
“We continue to be fascinated and engaged by Sophie’s work and are so pleased to exclusively present it in Las Vegas,” said Jessica Sanders, CEO of E/M Group.
BODIES…The Exhibition is committed to including displays that educate, promote conversation, positivity, and inclusion.BODIES…The Exhibition is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with final admission granted at 5 p.m 1
Las Vegas’ Only Indie Film House and Performance Theatre Opens
The Beverly Theatre Opens as Las Vegas’ Only Indie Film House and Performance Theatre Las Vegas’ only indie film house, storytelling headquarters, and intentional live music venue, The Beverly Theater, has officially opened. Grand Opening Events Included a Red Carpet and VIP Screening of “Past Lives,” Literary Conversations, a Screening of “Apollo 11” and more.
Premiere Week kicked off on Friday, March 3 with red-carpet arrivals for an exclusive VIP screening of the Sundance-lauded film “Past Lives.” On hand for the special presentation were Oscar-winning producers Pamela Koffler and Christine Vachon (Killer Films), and David Hinojosa (2AM) and writer/director Celine Song who participated in a post-screening Q&A. Premiere Week continued with a screening of “Apollo 11” and a series of literary presented in tandem with the independent bookstore and neighbor The Writer’s Block and Black Mountain Institute (BMI) including a discussion with novelist Walter Kirn in conversation with Native American fiction writer Sterling HolyWhiteMountain, BMI presentation of award-winning writer Percival Everett, a conversation with BMI Shearing Fellows Jaquira Diaz and Anna Qu and more.
Flexing its programming pillars of Film, Lit, and Live, Premiere Week concluded on Sunday night, March 5 with Las Vegas’ own indie artist and idyllic inaugural headliner, Ekoh, performing for more than 90 minutes to an enthusiastic and energetic crowd.
Prior to Ekoh’s headlining debut at The Beverly Theater on Sunday, jazz trio and house regulars the Segue 3 and R&B/Soul singer Cam Calloway along with his band helped break in the stellar sound system.
Now open, The Beverly Theater will offer regular programming to shine a spotlight on imaginative indie films, intimate musical performances, and thought-provoking literary moments.
Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:
AREA15, the immersive art, event and entertainment district located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, announces The Wall, its new multi-purpose music and events venue, is now open inside the district’s main building. The Wall will house variety of unique programming and events, including underground music performances, intimate theater productions, comedy shows, open mic events, karaoke and trivia nights. It will also be available for corporate gatherings and small social events. Tickets to several events inside The Wall are on sale now.
MINUS5º ICEBAR now features new ice displays, including an ALL NEW JAPANESE SAMURI SWORD DISPLAY at MANDALAY BAY and a MEDIEVAL FIRE AND ICE FANTASY DISPLAY at THE VENETIAN RESORT LAS VEGAS. The new displays were created by award-winning master ice carvers Dan “Hollywood” Rebholz and Austin Greenleaf. New 250-pound blocks of ice were used in the construction. Each block of ice required four men to lift and hoist it into place. Prior to arriving in Las Vegas, the ice was created by utilizing a special process that removes all air bubbles, resulting in the clearest ice possible. The new construction represents part of Minus5º ICEBAR’s quarterly Staying COOL re-theming program to keep the experience fresh for guests.
Las Vegas’ iconic female revue FANTASY: The Strip's Biggest Tease has extended its partnership with LUXOR HOTEL & CASINO with a new multi-year agreement. Emmy Award-winning choreographer Anita Mann continues to deliver a winning formula in the popular Las Vegas Strip production: a cast of gorgeous showgirls, the powerhouse vocals of Lorena Peril, talented guest stars and new numbers continually added since the sizzling show premiered on the Las Vegas Strip as “Midnight Fantasy” in 1999. The multi-year extension comes after one of the show’s most successful years and is the culmination of more than two decades of numerous awards and achievements.
BAKKT THEATER (“Bakkt” pronounced “Backed”), the newly renamed live entertainment venue, previously known as Zappos Theater, inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, officially debuted under its new moniker on March 24. As one of the most impressive venues on the Las Vegas Strip, the venue continues to push the envelope for millions of concertgoers, welcoming the biggest names in music to its everchanging roster, from headliner residencies to tour stops of every music and comedy genre. Upcoming show dates for the current superstar residency lineup are as follows:
Miranda Lambert: March 25 & 30; April 1, 2, 6, 8 & 9; July 7, 8, 12, 14, 15, 19, 21 & 22; Nov. 30; Dec. 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 14 & 16, 2023
The Chicks: May 3, 5, 6, 10, 12 & 13, 2023
Jeff Dunham: May 28, July 16, Sept. 3 Oct. 22, Nov. 12, Dec. 8, 2023
Keith Urban: June 16, 17, 21, 23, 24, 28 & 30; July 1; Nov. 1, 3, 4, 10, 11, 15, 17 & 18, 2023
In honor of March being Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Collaboration Center Foundation is revving their engines for their 2ND ANNUAL POKER RUN, ANTE-UP FOR DISABILITIES. This traditional motorcycle poker run will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023, beginning at 8 a.m. to raise awareness and donations to help support individuals and families living with various disabilities, including autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, language and learning disabilities, genetic disorders and other related syndromes.
Get on those two or three wheels and ride or walk in to benefit the Collaboration Center Foundation Disability Network and the organization’s campus expansion. The funds raised throughout this fun day of riding will go directly toward the transformation of the property into an innovative and world-renowned treatment, therapy, recreation, and health and wellness center for all those touched by developmental, intellectual, physical, and learning disabilities of ALL ages.
Beginning at Red Rock Harley Davidson (2260 S. Rainbow Blvd.), registration is from 8-10 a.m. with the Poker Run beginning at 10 a.m. Through a set list of stops including Terrible’s Casino Indian Springs, Terrible’s Roadhouse Casino - Pahrump and Mountains Springs Saloon, riders and passengers will receive a total of five playing cards to make the best hand. Top winners will receive a variety of prizes and there will be a prize for worst hand as well. The run concludes at The Ridge Bar & Grill (4570 S. Hualapai Way, LV 89147) for the fifth hand, food, drinks, live music, and a 50/50 raffle along with a host of prizes.
Riders can start their fundraising team in advance at https://give.classy.org/PokerRun2023, in addition to registering day of the event. Individual riders are $30 per person, team captains are $25, additional team riders are $20 and all passengers are $20. This year also features an Easy Rider category for those that don’t have a motorcycle but are looking to participate – those riders will attend the final stop at The Ridge Bar & Grill and receive five cards and a score sheet to participate. Easy Rider team captains are $25 and Easy Riders are $20. Sponsorships are also available.
LAS VEGAS ARTISTS GUILD invites the public to attend “SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE” event at the LVAG Gallery - Las Vegas Artists' Guild located inside the Galleria at Sunset Mall on Saturday, March 25th, from 4pm-7pm. Enjoy LIVE MUSIC & LIVE ART created by local artists, complimentary refreshments while enjoying a cool drink or glass of wine! And for your pleasure, an entire collection of art & jewelry is available for purchase. Save the date, bring friends, family and good vibes!
VEGAS GOLDEN STARS SHEA THEODORE, WILLIAM KARLSSON, REILLY SMITH,LOGAN THOMPSON, ZACH WHITECLOUD, LAURENT BROSSOIT,ALEC MARTINEZ, AND OTHER TEAMMATES join together at Las Vegas’ ultimate sports restaurant PUCK PLAYERS LOCKER in downtown Summerlin, on Sunday, March 26 from 12noon - 5 p.m. to help raise awareness and to find homes in Southern Nevada for vulnerable pets. The event, which benefits RETRIEVER RESCUE OF LAS VEGAS, is FREE and open to the public. Guests should make reservations and are encouraged to purchase raffle tickets to win prizes including signed Vegas Golden Knights merchandise, dining certificates to Wolfgang Puck’s Restaurants, and more. All raffle ticket proceeds as well as a portion of food and beverage sales during the event will benefit Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas.
THE COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN NEVADA’S JAZZ SINGERS will present the 44th ANNUAL EDITION OF VOCAL JAZZ SOLO NIGHTS, March 31st and April 1st. The evening will feature a plethora of jazz styles with each member singing a solo of their choice as well as selections sung by the ensemble. There will be some swing, bebop and even R&B featured this year. Vocal Jazz Solo Nights will be presented on two evenings, Friday, March 31st and Saturday, April 1st at 7 p.m. in the JAY MORRISON RECITAL HALL locate in the FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT at the NORTH LAS VEGAS CAMPUS. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online anytime or at the box office the evening of the performance. To purchase tickets online and avoid box office lines, please visit our website at: www.csn.edu/pac. For more information, call the PAC Box Office at 702-651-LIVE (5483).
DAVID DE ALBA, the legendary Cuban entertainer and Judy Garland tribute artist from San Francisco's world famous Finocchio Club, is bringing his one man theatrical presentation, “IF I CAN TURN BACK TIME”, to the WINCHESTER CULTURAL CENTER, 3030 McCleod Drive, on April 1 at 3:30 p.m. The show is a retrospective on David de Alba’s personal and theatrical life, spanning from his childhood days in Cuba, as a teenager in Chicago and performer in San Francisco. Tickets are $12.
THE FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT MUSIC PROGRAM AT THE COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN NEVADA presents the CHAMBER MUSIC RECITAL on Sunday, April 2nd at 2 p.m. in the JAY MORRISON RECITAL HALL at the North Las Vegas campus. CSN’s Performing Arts Center is located at 3200 East Cheyenne Avenue in North Las Vegas. The afternoon fundraising event will feature CSN’s Orchestra and special guests. Admission is $5 with proceeds going to benefit CSN’s Orchestra Club. Please visit the PAC’s website: www.csn.edu/pac to purchase tickets.
Home to Downtown Las Vegas’ only bingo room, the PLAZA HOTEL & CASINO will hold its spring $160,000 SUPER BINGO TOURNAMENT April 3-5, and Nevada residents can bring a friend for free. Held in the Plaza’s updated ballroom, Super Bingo typically draws nearly 1,000 people from across the country and as far away as Hawaii and Canada for the opportunity to win big playing fun-filled games of bingo over two days, with a $50,000 super coverall both days, while socializing with like-minded bingo players. Bingo-only registration is $160 per person. Any Nevada resident who registers for the April event can bring one friend for free.
ARIZONA CHARLIE’S DECATUR, located at 740 S. Decatur Blvd., invites guests to enjoy trivia, musical bingo and more at NAUGHTY LADIES’ SALOON inside the beloved locals’ destination, beginning in April.
Hosted by stand-up comedian Trez “ThinkStopper” Mala, trivia nights will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday beginning Wednesday, April 5. Mala will create his own questions for 10 rounds of intense competition, with prizes for first and second place winners. In addition, the third place winner will get the chance to choose a category for the following week's trivia night, which can range from music to photo rounds.
Music fans can delight in musical bingo from 7 to 9 p.m. every Thursday beginning Thursday, April 6. The high-energy game will feature four rounds of cards with different music genres, all created by the host, Mala. Guests can enjoy playing for hours, win prizes and keep the momentum going after trivia from the night prior.
Singers can also enjoy karaoke nights from 8 to 11 p.m.on Tuesdays, which relaunched in February.
Arizona Charlie’s Decatur hosts live performances from various local tribute bands at Naughty Ladies’ Saloon at 8 p.m. on select Fridays and Saturdays.
THE MOB MUSEUM, the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement (located at 300 Stewart Avenue in downtown Las Vegas) invites guests to “VOICES OF JUVENILE JUSTICE WITH PHOTOGRAPHER RICHARD ROSS AND CHEF JEFF HENDERSON” on Thursday, April 6 from 7 - 8:30pm. Richard Ross will share his first-hand encounters with youths in the system and the effects it has on their health, well-being and futures. Las Vegas’ own chef Jeff Henderson of the Chef Jeff Project will discuss his own experiences of incarceration and how his program provides opportunities for system-impacted teens through culinary job training. Guests will also enjoy a tasting courtesy of Henderson’s budding food professionals and the chance to see Ross’ poignant work. Cost is $30. Members will receive a 10% discount.
THE COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN NEVADA’S THEATRE PROGRAM has partnered partner with A Public Fit Theatre Company to present August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, THE PIANO LESSON. Cirque du Soleil veteran and Molodi founder, Jason Nious, co-directs this production with APF Artistic Director, Ann-Marie Pereth.
"The Piano Lesson tells the story of the Charles household," explains Pereth, "and their conflicting attachments to a valuable family heirloom – a piano decorated with designs carved by a formerly enslaved ancestor. But the true music of the play comes from Wilson's remarkable use of language." The show opens Friday, April 7th and will run for three weekends through April 24th at CSN Performing Arts Center’s Backstage Theatre. Showtimes are 7 p.m. and 2 p.m. with special Industry Nights on the 10th, 17th and 24th. Ticket prices are $35 and $40 with special discounts for seniors, students and active military personnel.
Immediately following each performance, audience members are invited to join the evening’s cast members and production staff for The Buzz, a moderated discussion of the themes and discoveries presented in the play. An APF hallmark, The Buzz is an expression of A Public Fit’s ongoing commitment to engage audiences well-beyond the limits of the stage, ensuring that the conversations surrounding captivating theatre are shared by the community.
Reggae stars KASH’D OUT are bringing their energetic sounds to BACKSTAGE BAR & BILLIARDS (601 E. Fremont St.) in Downtown Las Vegas. Presented by Smash Magazine, Kash’d Out will perform Friday, April 7, 2023, alongside special guest Cydeways with Driftone and ST1. Tickets start at $15 plus applicable fees for general admission and are on sale now. Guests must be 21 years or older and doors are at 8 p.m.
PARK WEST FINE ART MUSEUM & GALLERY AT THE FORUM SHOPS IN CEASARS PALACE is continuing its artist showcase series in April with a free exhibition and fan event with Las Vegas-based character artist and illustrator NEAL PORTNOY on Saturday, April 8, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Fans will have the opportunity to view Portnoy’s one-of-a-kind work and get “Portnoyed,” while he hosts a live illustration, meet-and-greet and Q&A. A fixture in the Las Vegas art world, Portnoy’s exhibit will be on display at the Park West Fine Art Museum & Gallery for 90 days.
Tickets are now on sale for THE CALLBACK, an original musical written, produced by and starring POSITIVELY ARTS’ student performers, and supported by Broadway and Disney professionals. During the three-month program, students and industry professionals collaborated together to create a musical that showcases the youth’s unique individual talents, as well as their real-life struggles, triumphs, and emotions.Performing at the CLARK COUNTY PUBIC LIBRARY THEATER located at 1401 E. Flamingo Road, show times are on Saturday, April 15 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Sunday, April 16 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10 for students, $20 for General Admission or $35 for VIP seating, and can be purchased at: https://www.positivelyarts.org/thecallback.html.
BROOKLYN BOWL has added genre bending singer/songwriter REMI WOLF to its world-class lineup on Monday, April 17. Wolf’s music refuses to be bound by a single genre, often ricocheting between funk, soul, indie and emo within a span of three minutes. Combined with her rebellious nature and uncanny ability to flawlessly switch between octaves in little more than a breath, Remi breaks the mold and strays away from the generic cookie-cutter pop music formula. Tickets to Remi Wolf at Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas are available online now.
The UNLV PERFORMING ARTS CENTER welcomes sought-after GRAMMY®-Award winning and internationally acclaimed pianist EMANUEL AX to ARTEMUS W. HAM HALL on Thursday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. His mix of technical precision and lustrous lyricism has earned him a reputation as one of the most beloved concert pianists of our time. A prolific and widely respected concert pianist in modern symphonic music, Ax's crisp moves from fast, bombastic stretches to slow, contemplative passages deftly interpreting Chopin, Beethoven, Brahms, Rachmaninoff, and others. He was the winner of the first Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Competition in 1974, the Michaels Award of Young Concert Artists in 1975, and the Avery Fisher Prize in 1979. Tickets are $20-$50 each (discounts may be available) and may be purchased by telephone at 702-895-ARTS (2787), or at the PAC box office from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Friday.
THE UNDERGROUND SPEAKEASY AND DISTILLERY inside THE MOB MUSEUM (300 Stewart Ave.) invites guests to join their unforgettable 5th anniversary celebration on Friday, April 21 from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Live entertainment will be provided by Dixie Flats from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Red Penny Arcade will lend a live jazz sound to The Underground’s immersive, intriguing exhibition devoted to the Prohibition era. Meanwhile, attendees can enjoy the speakeasy’s brand-new menu of signature cocktails and tempting bites.
To commemorate the milestone occasion, The Underground will also be giving away exciting prizes to five guests throughout the evening. Prizes may include a private tour of the distillery, free Museum admission, a whiskey club event and more. Guests are encouraged to wear their finest 1920s-inspired apparel. Admission is free; food and beverage are an additional cost. Guests must use the secret passcode “Plead the Fifth” to gain entry. Guests must be 21 and older.
TRANSFIX, the world’s largest touring immersive art experience, has announced its inaugural edition, launching this April on the Las Vegas Strip at RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS. TRANSFIX will present over 50 interactive, kinetic, illuminated, and fire-breathing artworks by international artists across a 200,000 square-foot multi-level venue. TRANSFIX will open to the public on April 21, 2023, and will run through Fall 2023.The full artist lineup for its inaugural edition include international artists such as Pablo González Vargas, Christopher Bauder & KiNK , Marco Cochrane, FoldHaus Collective, Kate Raudenbush, Christopher Schardt, PLAYMODES, Olivier Ratsi, HOTTEA, Charlie Gadeken, Ouchhh, Iregular, LedPulse, NONOTAK, HYBYKOZO and many more. Following its Las Vegas residency, TRANSFIX will roll out globally, with plans to tour across major US cities and abroad. Designed to be an experience unlike any other, participants are invited to embark on their own 90-120 minute journey through a two-acre labyrinth. The venue, which is located on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip, includes 10 artist-designed bars and speakeasies, and provides a thrilling environment for guests to have a unique night out on the town. Tickets went on sale beginning March 15, 2023, and start at $59.
LEGACY AT CIRCA RESORT & CASINO is inviting all dance floor queens and kings to cure their disco fever at its inaugural “STUDIO 60” PARTY on Friday, April 21 from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. The 70s-inspired soiree will bring the glitz and glam with live music, an open bar with dazzling drinks, go-go dancers and more. Paying homage to the 60th floor Legacy Club lives on and the iconic clubs of the 70s, Legacy Club will transform into the ultimate dance hotspot. Shiny mirror balls and bright lights will fill the venue, where the Marcel East Party Band – complete with two singers and a full band – will perform covers of top hits from the era and go-go dancers will keep the energy high. Patrons can swing by the party’s open bar, presented by Aviation American Gin and Ketel One Vodka, which also includes unlimited beer, wine, champagne, call spirits and select cocktails. Tickets to the party are $100 per person plus LET tax. Each ticket includes access to Studio 60 and all event inclusions. The event is open to guests 21+.
After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, NEVADA BLIND CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION is excited to announce the return of its LADYBUG BALL on Saturday, April 29 at 6 p.m. at ILLUMINARIUM. This is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. This year, NBCF will honor Merriam Shearing and Touro University. The evening will feature entertainment, dancing, live and silent auction, cocktail reception, and a gourmet multicourse meal with wine pairings. Individual tickets are available for $350 or $3,500 for a table of 10. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. To purchase tickets or learn more about the event, visit nvblindchildren.org.
GRAMMY Award and Emmy Award-nominated comedian BILL BURR will perform at DOLBY LIVE AT PARK MGM in Las Vegas on Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6. Both shows are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. This event will be a phone-free experience. Use of phones, smart watches and accessories, will not be permitted in the performance space. Tickets are on sale now.
Other recent or upcoming openings include:
PERSPIRE SAUNA STUDIO, combining the centuries-old practice of sauna with the modern science of infrared technology and red light therapy helping to ignite wellness within, is now open at Tivoli Village (at 410 S. Rampart Blvd, Suite 175).
WAHLBURGERS, the celebrated family burger restaurant of Chef Paul Wahlberg and superstar brothers Mark Wahlberg and Donnie Wahlberg, will open a second location on the Las Vegas Strip in late March. The new Wahlburgers, located at Mandalay Bay within THE SHOPPES AT MANDALAY PLACE, joins the global franchise, which started in Hingham, Massachusetts in 2011.
The highly-anticipated DURANGO CASINO & RESORT BY STATIONS CASINOS is poised to become the ultimate destination for luxury hospitality off the Strip, anchored by the arrival of three new, immersive concepts by industry trendsetter, Clique Hospitality. They include MIJO MODERN MEXICAN RESTAURANT, a fresh coastal Mexican culinary experience; BEL-AIRE LOUNGE, a chic cocktail bar, each opening this fall; and BEL-AIRE BACKYARD, a stylish poolside retreat, opening in late Spring 2024.
The third ALL’ANTICO VINACIO location in the United States and the first outside of New York City is set to open this fall at UNCOMMONS, the celebrated new 40-acre urban community in Southwest Las Vegas. Founded in Florence, Italy, all’Antico Vinaio is considered to be one of the top street food experiences in the world for its opulent sandwiches, which have been introduced to the U.S. by Tommaso "Tommy" Mazzanti, whose family founded the restaurant, and revered restaurateur, Joe Bastianich.
Celebrity sightings…
Saturday, March 4…
Tony Award-winning actor NEIL PATRICK HARRIS and husband DAVID BURTKA caught a performance of Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil® at New York-New York Hotel & Casino. After the performance, they went on stage to snap a few photos and congratulate the cast and crew.
