The Hear is On!

Magician David Goldrake
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Stand back – you don’t know how big this thing is going to get!

Yes, here is a brand new column filled to the megabytes with all things going on in Vegas.

Now you see him… because award-winning grand illusionist David Goldrake has opened his residency at the Tropicana. The magician, known as 'The International Man of Mystery,' seeks to defy the laws of time and physics in front of spectators' very eyes with David Goldrake “Imaginarium” inside Tropicana Theater.

Representing a new generation of illusionists, David Goldrake allows guests to lose all sense of reality, creating a surreal scene caught somewhere between reality and a dreamlike world full of dreams and fantasies. From the classics of magical history to modern experience, the grand illusionist treats guests to an interactive show featuring mentalism, escapology, music and choreography blending with modern 3D mapping technology. Goldrake has developed this illustrious show with the best creators in the field of magic and entertainment, and will undertake a journey through time and will challenge the laws of nature before guests’ eyes.

Goldrake started his career as a professional magician in 1999. On top of being a regular performer at the renowned Magic Castle in Hollywood, he has performed all over the world and has amazed more than 20 million guests in over ten countries and speaks seven languages. In 2010, he was awarded the coveted 'Mandrake d’Or’ award (The Oscar of Magic) ranking him alongside names such as other Las Vegas favorites including David Copperfield and Siegfried & Roy. In 2015, Goldrake was awarded the 'Merlin Award' for ‘Best Illusionist Europe 2015’ by the International Society of Magicians.

Celebrity guests at the grand opening included, award-winning grand illusionist David Goldrake, Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Economy, Etienne Schneider, representatives from Congresswoman Dina Titus and Senator Dean Heller’s offices, comic-magician Adam London (Laughternoon), FANTASY, Harry Basil (Laugh Factory), magician Murray Sawchuck, illusionist Dan Sperry, hypnotist Anythony Cools, Cheyenne Ruether star of Discovery’ s TV series “Vegas Rat Rods,” actress and singer Pia Zadora, BMX star Ricardo Laguna and many more.

One famed longtime Las Vegas resident is coming out of his shell. In the heat of the Vegas summer, instead of burrowing to stay cool, Winston the Impersonating Turtle is hold up in the Terry Fator Theatre and he is invitiong all Las Vegas locals and tourists to stay cool with him by offering a Summer of Winston ticket discount. Now, through Sept. 30, 2017, fans can receive 40-percent off standard ticket prices (available in sections B, C and D).

Fator is also excited to launch a new children’s book “Winston,” written by Sally L. Kirkham, Ph.D., a leader in learning behavior, and illustrated by longtime Fator collaborator Pete Mitchell. The book is centered around Fator’s “wild-ly” popular character, Winston. “I love to read, and anything I can do to help educate children and encourage them not only to read, but to discover their talents like I…I mean Winston…does in the book is just awesome,” Fator said.

Winston’s adventures take him through the swamp and the ponds, and from daytime to nighttime as he discovers the sounds made by the frogs, birds, owls and more. This journey leaves Winston wondering what sounds he, as a turtle, could possibly make. With practice and patience, Winston discovers his true talent. The book also provides easy-to-use strategies to help children beginning at age five to develop their reading skills, and is the first of an upcoming series of Winston The Impersonating Turtle Tales books.

Famed singer-songwriter and producer Richard Marx will perform his greatest hits during a limited engagement, “Satisfied: Only The Hits,” at Flamingo Las Vegas beginning Aug. 15 through Sept. 2, 2017.

 "I’m really looking forward to these performances and what I hope will be a long and fruitful relationship with Las Vegas,” said Richard Marx.

The Chicago native has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and has released several chart-topping singles including “Hold on to the Nights,” “Satisfied” and “Now and Forever.” Fans will experience the pop/rock artist up close like never before in an intimate acoustic setting during “Satisfied: Only The Hits” as Richard performs exciting versions of his greatest hits plus exclusive stories behind his hits. The show also will feature a beautiful four-female string quarter. He put on a short preview performance in Cleopatra’s Barge at Caesars Palace recently and told the audience that two years ago, he put on a solo acoustic show that was just him and the audience and that he found it very fulfilling and rewarding. “

Speaking of relationships with Las Vegas, it was Dean Martin who first brought now legendary international superstar Engelbert Humperdinck to Las Vegas in 1968 to perform at the Riviera, which Martin was part owner of at the time. The marquee read “Dean Martin Presents Engelbert Humperdinck.” Today, Engelbert, who has sold more than 150 million records and has received a slew of awards and honors, is celebrating his 50th anniversary in show business, his first massive hit, “Release Me,” having been released on January 13, 1967. The song, which is in the Guinness Book of World Records, sold between 86,000 and 127,000 records a day in England alone and gave the British singer a global career right out of the gate. It also kept the Beatles from having their 13th number one it with their double-sided record “Strawberry Fields/Penny Lane.”

To celebrate his milestone, Engelbert has released a double CD containing his numerous hits, some of his most beloved songs through the years, and two beautiful new original songs (one of which, “I Followed My Heart,” he just released as a single). The CD was released first in the UK where it entered the Billboard charts at number 5 while a boxed set of 11 of his CDs released at the same time entered the chart at number 20. Both have now been released in the U.S.

The artist still tours the world to sellout crowds with fervor – in one stint, he went from a private event in Austria to three sold-out nights of performances in Israel to London to do some TV, then to Belgium and Iceland to perform. Having recently returned,, he is touring the U.S. Midwest and Canada and is in the midst of recording another new CD, this one of all original songs. Engelbert will be back at the Orleans on September 23 and 24. When he performed there at the end of February after two years of performing in the 2,050-seat Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center, he received such an incredibly wild reception that he couldn’t start his shows for 10 minutes because he couldn’t hear his music! It was that way after every song with the crowd rushing the stage and standing there 20-deep for the last few songs of his performance. It truly is amazing to watch.

The public is invited to a four-day celebration marking the official grand opening of Magical Memories Featuring Disney Fine Art at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace August 10 -13.  More than a traditional gallery, Magical Memories is an interactive experience of images and sounds. For its multi-day grand opening, the flagship visual art venue presents a public celebration featuring a salute to the 25th anniversary of the original animated film Beauty and the Beast. Fans of all ages are invited to meet original voice cast members including Paige O’Hara (voice of Belle), Robby Benson (voice of the Beast), Richard White (voice of Gaston), director Gary Trousdale, background artist James Coleman, and Mark Henn, animator of Belle, who will be appearing throughout the weekend at multiple events.

The celebration begins Thursday, Aug. 10 with a free animation class from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m., followed by a Grand Opening party with the cast and crew from Beauty and the Beast from 6 – 8 p.m., benefiting Make A Wish and including a wish reveal. On Friday, August 10, learn to draw with Disney Fine Artists from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. In the evening, from 6 – 8 p.m., another opening party with the Beauty and the Beast cast and crew benefiting Candlelighters will be held. Additional grand opening events include; artist meet and greets, opportunities to see artists Dave Bossert, James Coleman, Tennessee Loveless, James C. Mulligan, Tim Rogerson, John Ramirez, Michelle St. Laurent and Paige O’Hara at work creating art in the gallery, a Q & A with the creative team of Beauty and the Beast, book and art signings, raffles to win a piece of Disney Fine Art, ribbon and cake cutting ceremony and plenty of photo opportunities.

Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall from The Chainsmokers recently enjoyed a haircut and style at the Claude BARUK Salon inside Wynn Las Vegas. The EDM duo and XS Las Vegas residents met Claude Baruk at their show, and then stopped by the high-end salon for cuts and styles by the expert stylist prior to their final performance of the weekend, which was a late night performance at XS Las Vegas. Both dressed casually in T-shirts and tennis shoes, Taggart and Pall chatted and laughed with Baruk while getting their cuts.

Meanwhile, over at the Westgate, you can enjoy two special performances of The King Lives! Donny Edwards Elite Tribute to Elvis on Friday, August 11 and Saturday, August 12. Starring Donny Edwards, the only Elvis Tribute Artist to perform at the hallowed grounds of Graceland, and an incredible 10-piece band, The King Lives! Donny Edwards Elite Tribute to Elvis will take fans from the nostalgic songs of the 1950s and 1960s to “The King’s” transition into the famous jumpsuit of the 1970s.  Also, on Saturday, August 26, the 41st annual Mrs. America Pageant will once again return to its original home at the Westgate. Hosted by Barbara Chase, daughter of the late Florence Henderson, and actor Christopher Knight, the 2017 Mrs. America Pageant will be held inside the renowned International Westgate Theater at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

 The Vegas concert scene is hot, hot, hot. Just a few of the upcoming performances here include Lady Gaga (August 11 – T-Mpbile Arena), Bruno Mars (September 2-3 – Park Theater), Ricky Martin (Se[t. 23, 25, 16, 19, 20 & 23, Park Theater), Marc Anthony (September 16 – Mandalay Bay Events Center), and Janet Jackson (October 14 – Mandalay Bay Events Center). And there are lots more.

The Aces of Comedy series welcomes Tiffany Haddish for her debut performance Saturday, Sept. 30 at 10 p.m. inside The Mirage Hotel & Casino. Best known for her role on NBC’s hit sitcom “The Carmichael Show,” Haddish is quickly making herself one of the most sought-after talents in comedy.

This season, The Smith Center for the Performing Arts welcomes the world’s most exciting, eclectic and innovative dance companies to Las Vegas. The Dance Series Package will feature three productions including iLuminate, “the best new act in America,” on Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, MOMIX – Opus Cactus, a stunning performance featuring world-class dancer-illusionists on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017 and Pilobolus – Maximus Beyond the Limits of Dance, an extraordinary display of human physicality on Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2018. Arriving just in time for National Dance Day (July 29), the series will go on sale Friday, July 28 with packages starting as low as $129

BEER PARK at Paris Las Vegas will bid farewell to the popular Summer Movie Series, featuring two final movies on Tuesday, August 8 and Tuesday, August 22. Under the stars of the rooftop venue, BEER PARK will send off the Summer Movie Series with two beloved cult classics, “Mean Girls” and “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Each movie night will feature a flavorful themed food selection for hungry moviegoers, offering cheese fries throughout the “Mean Girls” showing and oversized drumsticks during “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Guests can participate in the Summer Movie Series with the purchase of any of BEER PARK’s selection of food and drinks. Seating will begin at 7 p.m., with the showing at 7:30 p.m.

Super Summer Theatre announces its third show of the season, the iconic Broadway musical “Man of La Mancha,” playing August 9 – 26 at the Spring Mountain State Park. “Man of La Mancha” transports you back to the volatile days of the Spanish Inquisition, when playwright Miguel de Cervantes and his trusty servant have been thrown into prison after being accused of crimes against the church. To prevent all his belongings (including a precious manuscript) from being destroyed by the other prisoners in their mock trial, Cervantes must think fast.  With his back against the wall, the desperate playwright uses his only weapon; he distracts the prisoners by telling them the story of Don Quixote.

Saturday afternoon, July 29, Yazz “The Greatest,” who plays Hakeem Lyon on the FOX television drama, “Empire,” hosted and performed live at the Flamingo GO Pool. Columbia Records recording artist Bryshere Gray (aka Yazz “The Greatest”) stars as Hakeem Lyon in the multiple Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated FOX television show “Empire.” His has been nominated for two NAACP Image Awards and a Teen Choice Award for his role on “Empire,” which was recently renewed for its fourth season.

Gray was last seen as the lead role of BET’s miniseries, “The New Edition Story,” starring as Michael Bivins, one of the true original remaining members of the band. The biopic was one of the highest rated and most watched telecasts in years. Gray is also set to star in the indie film titled, “Canal Street,” a modern-day thriller within the city of Chicago telling the story of a teen trying to get by in an unwelcoming world. Gray is passionate about the struggles in urban communities and is in talks to launch his own foundation, “You’re the GREATEST,” to help underprivileged youth. He also enjoys visiting schools and sharing hopes and dreams with teens around the globe.

Beyond recording a torrent of hit singles and selling tens of millions of albums worldwide, The Beach Boys, who will be performing at The Smith Center on September 15, have forever changed America’s musical landscape by redefining what pop songs can be. Still generating passionate fans of all ages, the band has continued to create and perform music with the same bold energy and renowned harmonies. Led by group co-founder Mike Love and Grammy-winning songwriter Bruce Johnston, The Beach Boys also includes Jeffrey Foskett, Brian Eichenburger, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill and Scott Totten to continue the band’s legacy. The current tour does not feature Brian Wilson, Al Jardine or David Marks. Love is not only the band’s front man, but also one of rock’s foremost songwriters. He penned songs such as “Surfin,’” and co-wrote several more of The Beach Boys’ classics, such as “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “I Get Around,” “Help Me Rhonda” and “California Girls” with his cousin Brian Wilson.

After an ultra-successful engagement during Spring 2017, Tape Face returns for a sophomore residency at Flamingo Las Vegas. The America’s Got Talent sensation will take the stage for a limited-engagement at Bugsy’s Cabaret. Tape Face will perform on September 29-30, October 5-8, 19-22, 25 and November 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, 2017. The mime artist heads back stateside fresh from his successful seven-week debut at the historic Garrick Theatre on London’s West End. Tape Face approaches everyday objects in a pensive, curious, whimsical way that incites the inner child in everyone. Through simple, clever and charming humor, he has created one of the most accessible and enjoyable shows the world has ever seen. Drawing on a heritage that includes silent film, mime, magic, puppetry, circus and the films of Patrick Swayze. He has become a critically acclaimed silent sensation with Simon Cowell comparing him to a modern Charlie Chaplin.

Visit Oscar’s steakhouse at the Plaza Hotel & Casino for Oscar in Oscar’s, Monday, August 7 through Wednesday, August 9 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Oscar Goodman will be mingling with guests and telling his favorite tales of being a mob attorney and Mayor of Las Vegas inside the lounge of Oscar’s steakhouse. Goodman will also sign his book, Being Oscar, which is available for sale at the restaurant. Inside Oscar’s dining room, guests can enjoy a $29 dinner special, “What Oscar Eats,” a three course meal that begins with Cardini’s Two-Bit Caesar Salad, followed by a 14 oz. Bone-in Ribeye with Shmuley’s Extraordinary Mac & Cheese, and ends with decadent chocolate ice cream. Reservations for dinner are recommended.

Playing a baby grand piano, Michael Spadoni blends his classical music training with his “hippie-hopera” style to create a unique and entertaining show inside the lounge at Oscar’s every Friday and Saturday night from 7 to 10 p.m. A self-taught pianist and composer, Spadoni has been performing regularly downtown and on the Las Vegas Strip for the past seven years. He is now appearing at Oscar’s with live performances of original songs and creative covers from Bach to Britney.

Several 1970s soul music legends The Stylistics, The Emotions, Bloodstone and Carl Carlton will each bring their timeless hits to The Club at Cannery Casino Hotel on Saturday, Aug. 19 for “70s Soul Jam.” In the early 1970s, Philadelphia soul group The Stylistics released 12 consecutive Top Ten singles, including “You Are Everything,” “Betcha By Golly Wow,” “I’m Stone in Love With You” and “You Make Me Feel Brand New.” With hits like “Break Up to Make Up,” the band went on to become one of the most successful soul groups of the early ‘70s. The group’s lineup includes original members Herbert Murrell and Airrion Love, along with Harold Eban Brown and Jason Sharp.

Grammy Award-winning soul trio The Emotions rose to fame with their 1969 hit “So I Can Love You.” In 1977, the group released their No. 1 single “Best of My Love” that led them to a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance. The Emotions’ success continued with the release of their top hits “Don’t Ask My Neighbors” and “Boogie Wonderland,” which helped them become one of the leading female R&B and soul groups of the ‘70s. The trio’s current lineup includes Sheila Hutchinson, Wanda Hutchinson and Pamela Hutchinson.

Formed in Kansas City, the funk-soul group Bloodstone won over fans with their chart-topping singles “Natural High” and “We Go a Long Way Back.” Between the ‘70s and ‘80s, Bloodstone charted 13 songs thanks to their hit albums, including “Natural High,” which sold more than 1 million copies. The band’s current members are Harry Williams, Charles McCormick and Donald Brown.

Best known for his hits “Everlasting Love” and “She’s a Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked),” Carl Carlton released eight albums throughout his career, including his certified-Gold record “Carl Carlton.” Most recently, Carlton released his first gospel single, “God is Good.”

The 4th annual Believer Gala, which will take place on August 25th is an extraordinary, one-night-only experience created to raise funds for The Tyler Robinson Foundation (TRF), the Imagine Dragons’ nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families with pediatric cancer diagnose. The Believer Gala offers attendees an exhilarating night of entertainment and glamour while celebrating the individuals who have made notable contributions to TRF through direct efforts, philanthropic support, or by raising public awareness for pediatric cancThe star-studded event will feature cocktails, dinner, a live and silent auction and entertainment, including a performance from the GRAMMY Award-winning, multiplatinum-selling band. Individual tickets and corporate sponsorships are still available for the 2017 event. All proceeds benefit The Tyler Robinson Foundation. For more information or for ticket purchase, visit TRF.org. 

Grammy Award-winning singer and renowned actress Stephanie Mills is returning to Las Vegas with a special performance at the Dallas Events Center inside Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel on Friday, September 29 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25 and go on sale Friday, August 4 at 10 a.m.

Broadway Bound will present the five-time Tony Award-winning musical, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” August 25 – September 9 at the Summerlin Library, located at 1771 Inner Circle Drive, Las Vegas, Nev. 89134. When wealthy widow Mrs. Tottendale hosts the wedding of the year, she gets a lot more than a write-up in the society pages: Janet Van de Graaff, glittering starlet of Feldzieg’s Follies, is leaving the stage for love, a turn of events which horrifies the angry and anxious Mr. Feldzieg, whose chief investor has sent two gangsters disguised as pastry chefs to make sure he stops the wedding.

Hiring Aldolpho, a Latin lover more vain than virile, to seduce the bride, is unsuccessful, as Janet’s Chaperone, a drunken diva, gets herself mistaken for the bride and seduced in Janet’s place. It is left to the eager best man, George, to quite by accident break up the happy pair, when he sends groom Robert Martin out to the garden, blindfolded, and on roller skates. Such are the antics of “The Drowsy Chaperone,” a fictitious 1928 musical comedy. This magical piece of meta-theatre and playful, heartfelt parody of the 1920s musical comedy features a chirpy jazz age score by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison, and a lively, clever book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar, both of which were Tony winners in 2006.

JAY-Z is bringing his 4:44 TOUR to T-Mobile Arena Saturday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. Continuing its commitment to bring fans closer to their favorite artists, TIDAL members will have access to a special presale beginning on Monday, July 10 at 9 a.m. PST.  Members can find details for purchasing tickets at TIDAL.com.Citi® is the official presale credit card for the 4:44 TOUR. As such, Citi® cardmembers will have access to purchase

The Westgate Resort & Casino will be presenting the 40th Tribute to the King during the entire month of August, thank you very much consisting of food and gaming specials, entertainment and more. On Friday, August 11, 2017 & Saturday, August 12, 2017, visitors can enjoy two special performances of “The King Lives! Donny Edwards Elite Tribute to Elvis” on Friday, August 11 and Saturday, August 12. Starring Donny Edwards, the only Elvis tribute artist to perform at the hallowed grounds of Graceland, and an incredible 10-piece band, “The King Lives! Donny Edwards Elite Tribute to Elvis” will take fans from the nostalgic songs of the 1950s and 1960s to “The King’s” transition into the famous jumpsuit of the 1970s. 

Blue Man Group at Luxor Hotel and Casino is holding nightly performances throughout the month of August. Shows are offered at 7 and 9:30 p.m., with an additional matinee performance at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3. Blue Man Group performances are a celebration of human connection. Mixing art, music, comedy and state-of-the-art technology, the show encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner (and outer) child and see the world through a new perspective.  Three bald and blue men explore our cultural norms with wide-eyed wonder, poking fun at our collective quirks and reminding us how much we all have in common. Backed by a live rock band, the Blue Men unify the audience for the show’s celebratory climax—an unforgettable, euphoric dance party.

House of Blues adds two new shows with legendary shock-rocker Marilyn Manson slated for Halloween weekend.  Touring in support of the band’s 10th studio album, tickets to The Heaven Upside Down Tour are on sale.  Fans will be permitted to wear costumes to the show; however face paint, face masks or anything obstructing facial recognition is prohibited.  American author and news commentator Van Jones also makes a move to House of Blues with the WE RISE Tour powered by #LoveArmy.  Previously scheduled at The Pearl, this tour brings an array of artists, athletes, thought leaders and local leaders for an exclusive evening of discussion and change. 100 percent of the net ticket proceeds will go to Dream Corps initiatives and local charities.

Renowned comedian and Emmy-nominated actor Billy Gardell is returning to Las Vegas for a special performance at the Grand Events Center inside Green Valley Ranch Resort on Saturday, October 21 at 8 p.m.

Kicking off the 25th anniversary of the annual Gentlemen’s Club EXPO, award-winning gentlemen’s club Crazy Horse III will host a party complete with a topless DJ set on Sunday, August 27. Legendary adult film star and Playboy model, Brittany Andrews, will bring the heat to the party with a topless set beginning at 11:30 p.m., performing her electro house and nu disco mixes as DJ BritStar. Having launched her career in the adult film industry in the late 1990s, DJ BritStar recently started her own mainstream film production company, Discipline Filmworks. Always passionate about music and the club scene, DJ BritStar has been spinning for years and has performed at events including foam parties, paint raves, MTV Spring Break and Ultra Music Festival.

MGM Resorts International is partnering again with Spokane Hoopfest, the “Best Basketball Weekend on Earth,” to bring Las Vegas 3on3 to Toshiba Plaza and The Park September 9 – 10, giving players of all heights and abilities the chance to become Champion. The event returns to Las Vegas for its second year and will present “Hoopfesters” the incredible opportunity to play basketball on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Registration is currently open through Thursday, August 31.

Embrace the “spirit of her” at Life Time Green Valley during Gildan Esprit de She 2017 beginning at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24. The female-empowering festival, open to both men and women, will feature a special fitness session led by YouTube star, “The Fitness Marshall,” and a post-sweat, poolside social hour. Caleb Marshall, also known as “The Fitness Marshall,” will headline two group classes with his self-choreographed workout routines featuring backup dancers and up-beat playlist. The energetic instructor will host a 45-minute “cardio concert” at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. Following the classes, Esprit de She participants can cool down at a poolside lifestyle market, featuring samples and demonstrations from Life Time vendors; live music; a large assortment of appetizers and themed cocktails from noon to 5 p.m.

Las Vegas’ Downtown Project continues its foray into unique and innovative nightlife with Corduroy, a bar reminiscent of the throw-back rock ‘n’ roll-style watering holes of the past. Unmistakably unconventional, Corduroy brings a high-energy, new social scene and takes center stage along the Fremont East Entertainment District via rock ‘n’ roll music, complete with its very own vintage speaker collection turned-art installation. Debuting Saturday, August 5th, Corduroy brings an ol’ school type of fun to Downtown Las Vegas. The delightfully unpretentious neighborhood bar serves its Moscow Mules with house made ginger beer on tap to keep the lines short and the atmosphere amp’d. Fun and a whole lot of nostalgic flair went into the design of Corduroy – the interior is a nod to the classic decor of the 70s, while the music and drinks are focused on today’s barhopping connoisseur. A night at Corduroy is guaranteed to be a good time.

August 4th First Friday's Featured Artist – Justin Lepper -- is a local contemporary artist who paints, sculpts, designs, produces art shows and designs murals. He considers himself a “macro designer, creating intelligent space for a future filled with intelligent people.” Rock & Review, Race for October continues in July – each month from June to September, a winner will be chosen in this competition of local bands. In October – First Friday’s anniversary month – the four winners will go head-to-head and the ultimate winner will receive an exciting prize package.

Following its successful participation in the 2016 PBS Arts Fall Festival, Myron’s Cabaret Jazz at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts will present two concerts by acclaimed group Postmodern Jukebox on August 14, with both shows filmed and available for PBS stations across the country to schedule for broadcast in December 2017. With performances at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., the show will feature highly talented artists including “American Idol” Season 10 finalist Casey Abrams. Creating gramophone music for a smartphone world, Postmodern Jukebox has gone from viral sensation to worldwide phenomenon by putting pop music into a time machine. Led by gifted arranger Scott Bradlee, Postmodern Jukebox reimagines modern pop hits by the likes of Celine Dion, Beyoncé and Radiohead in the style of various yesteryears, from swing-era jazz to vintage soul to swinging-sixties orchestral pop. “The New Classics” features Bradlee and his multi-talented collaborators showing off. PBS will film the performances, to air later this year for millions of viewers

Entertainment seekers can find refuge at the Lounge at Excalibur Hotel & Casino. The newly revamped, inviting space now includes live music and karaoke on the main stage; bar games and banquette seating for socializing with friends; two media walls containing eight flat-screen TVs for watching every major event and a brand new cocktail menu to fuel the festivities. Warm hues and custom décor by MGM Resorts International Design Group modernize the venue, setting the tone for guests 21 and older to play all day and night. The Lounge is located on the main casino floor and is open 24 hours.

The Life is Beautiful Music & Art Festival will partner with the Plaza Hotel & Casino to host the official 2017 after parties, Sept. 22-24. Located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, the Plaza will also serve as the official hotel partner for the festival, offering special room packages and access to exclusive events, including a private performance by MGMT.

Australian soft rock group Air Supply will bring their iconic hits to The Orleans Showroom on September. 1-3. Formed in 1975, Air Supply members Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock burst into the music scene with their unique vocals, harmonic ballads and soft rock sound. Early in their career, the duo performed throughout Australia, winning over fans with hit singles like “Love and Other Bruises.” Air Supply later gained international recognition as the opening act for Rod Stewart’s North American tour.

 Boasting an extraordinary roster of unparalleled shows, The Smith Center is thrilled to celebrate its upcoming Las Vegas season, encouraging revelers to experience signature performances in Reynolds Hall, Cabaret Jazz and Troesh Studio Theater beginning this October. In addition to Broadway smash hits, THE LITTLE MERMAID, THE KING AND I and THE BODYGUARD, guests will enjoy special performances by world renowned acts such as the legendary Paul Anka, platinum recording artists Stephen Stills and Judy Collins, as well as Omar Sosa and Kristin Chenoweth rounded out with local favorites – Melody Sweets, Clint Holmes and Frankie Moreno. Single tickets are on sale now with additional titles becoming available beginning Friday, July 28 at 10 a.m. PST starting at $24. For more information and the full lineup, please visit TheSmithCenter.com.

Live Nation Las Vegas congratulates their friends Rascal Flatts on their 17th #1 single, "Yours If You Want It." The group will be performing the song LIVE during their limited Las Vegas engagement, "A Night To Shine" in the Venetian Theatre at The Venetian Las Vegas October 6-21.

Theresa Caputo, from TLC’s hit show “Long Island Medium,” will  appear live at Park Theater at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino Saturday, Oct. 14 at 8 p.m. Caputo will share personal stories about her life and explain how her gift works. She also will deliver healing messages to audience members while providing her fans comfort in knowing that their loved ones who passed are still with them, only in a different way.

 Hollywood Undead brings their unmistakable and inebriating distillation of rock, hip-hop, industrial, and electronic to Las Vegas for an intimate performance in the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort on Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 at 7 p.m. with special guests Butcher Babies.

The Golden Tiki celebrated its second anniversary on July 23 with the debut of Monti Rock III and Claire Sinclair's shrunken heads. Guests enjoyed tiki punch, magic tricks from a strolling entertainer, a scavenger hunt featuring several of the bar's unique artifacts, a mermaid braid bar from Kelly Cardenas Salon, and a DJ set by Tony Felicetta of The Sharps.  

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas is remembering Chester Bennington with a special memorabilia case on property. The American singer and songwriter was best known as the frontman for the rock band Linkin Park. He was also the lead singer for Dead by Sunrise and fronted Stone Temple Pilots from 2013 to 2015. Bennington’s last performance at The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino was in January of 2014. Linkin Park also rocked The Joint two nights, back-to-back in March 2008 and in August 2011. The case includes a Ve’cel by Chester Bennington shirt which belonged to the singer and was gifted to Hard Rock Hotel from Bennington and the band. The shirt was noted as “stage worn.”

On Friday, July 21, thousands of fans gathered at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center to take a blast to the past with the I Love The 90’s Tour: The Party Continues. Featuring acts such as Coolio, Rob Base and headliners, TLC, UFC president Dana White and undefeated boxing champion Floyd Mayweather were spotted enjoying the entertainment with CEO Derek Stevens.

High School Neon Night, an exclusive, end-of-summer bash for high school students returns to Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas on Thursday, Aug. 3 from 7 to 11 p.m. The event, hosted by HOT 97.5 and 106.9 The Q, will feature DJs playing top hits, a surprise live performance, a foam pit, contests and giveaways, giant beach balls and more.

Las Vegas' hottest party of the year, Aid for AIDS of Nevada's (AFAN) 31st annual Black & White Party, returns to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Saturday, Aug. 19. Hosted by "the Duchess of Decadence" Norma Llyaman, the highly anticipated event will feature avant garde (and barely there) fashions, performances from top entertainers, savory food & beverage offerings, and exciting silent auction items. Last year, nearly 4,000 guests raised more than $140,000 to benefit AFAN's client service programs to help men, women, and children living with HIV/AIDS in Southern Nevada. Themed "A New Orleans Soirée," the Hard Rock will be transformed into The Big Easy with inspired decor. For an added element of mystery, mystic vendor booths will offer a glimpse into the future, drawing upon the voodoo culture found in the alleys of Bourbon Street.

 Hot on the heels of sold out shows and his smash hit Netflix special, Las Vegas’ home grown superstar comedian Jo Koy makes his return to the Treasure Island Theatre September 1 at 9 p.m. The comedian, who got his start producing his own shows at the historic Huntridge Theater, put his skills to good use producing his third comedy special “Jo Koy: Live from Seattle,” which debuted on Netflix earlier this year. The highly-rated special has garnered Koy new fans from around the world, but Vegas audiences have been selling out the Treasure Island showroom for years, clamoring for impressions and stories, uproariously focused around his family, especially his mother and son. New and longtime fans should expect new material when Koy returns September 1.

The iconic Golden Gate Hotel & Casino – one of Las Vegas’ original hotels – will continue its storied 111-year legacy with a major expansion, which will be unveiled in late August. Merging modern design and gaming with the property’s illustrious history, the renovation will nearly double the casino in size; add a dramatic entry way on Fremont Street Experience; and extend its high-energy outdoor bar, OneBar at One Fremont Street.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Turn up the heat! The Hot Chick’n, a crispy chicken breast dusted with a guajillo and cayenne pepper blend and topped with slaw and pickles, lands at Shacks nationwide (excluding airports, stadiums and ballparks) on August 1, 2017, for a limited time. The Hot Chick’n joins the award-winning Chick’n Shack, Shake Shack’s first-ever chicken sandwich that debuted in 2015. The Hot Chick’n is crafted from an all-natural cage-free chicken breast—no hormones or antibiotics ever—slow-cooked in a creamy buttermilk marinade, hand-dipped into Shack-made batter, dredged through seasoned flour and crisp-fried. The sandwich is dusted with a guajillo and cayenne pepper blend and topped with Louisiana hot sauce slaw, kosher dill pickles and served on (what else?) the same pillowy non-GMO potato bun that has cradled the classic ShackBurger since Shake Shack’s inception. By the way, Shake Shack recently opened its newest location at The District in Henderson.

Already established as Downtown Las Vegas’ premiere 24/7 restaurant - where the tastes and tunes of the American road are always on the menu, Freedom Beat at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino unleashes a weekend-long celebration offering the  FREEDOM 2 Eat (all you can eat), the FREEDOM 2 Drink (bottomless and always pouring), the FREEDOM 2 Rock, and most importantly, the FREEDOM 2 BRUNCH all weekend long.

Launching August 5th and available every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm, Freedom Beat’s new Freedom 2 Brunch is turning up the decibels on the traditional brunch offerings with unlimited small plates and skillets paired with a freedom-busting price of only $20.  Besides the never-ending food offerings, the Freedom 2 Drink means $10 Bottomless Mimosas and a $10 Bloody Mary bar. And with music in its DNA, the brunch at Freedom Beat is paired with live entertainment featuring the tunes of Las Vegas’ best local musicians, including a month long Residency featuring "The Voice" season six finalist, Ryan Whyte Maloney every Saturday through the month of August. Other acts slated to hit the Freedom Beat stage include Rick Duarte and Peter Love.

When it comes to pizza, Grimaldi’s is at the top of the list. Through September, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria welcomes back its ever-popular Tuesday Tastings featuring half off glasses, carafes and bottles of wine every Tuesday. This promotion excludes house wine, but does include Sangria, which has truly become a guest favorite.The pizzeria also continues with its new Summer Selections menu, now available through August 31. This sweet summer menu starts with a fresh, Strawberry Spinach Salad drizzled with strawberry vinaigrette, feta cheese, red onions, toasted almonds and sliced strawberries, followed by the main course, Barbecue Chicken Pizza; a fan favorite covered in Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, chicken, smoky bacon, red onion and topped with fresh cilantro. Satisfy any sweet tooth with either seasonal desert option, Strawberry or Blueberry Cheesecake. Grimaldi’s Summer Selections menu is available for a limited time.

The first PizzaRev Taproom in Las Vegas is changing how the local community thinks about the classic pairing of pizza and beer by combining a Craft Your Own Pizza Experience with a Draft Your Own Beer Wall. With 18 draft beers and wines on tap, guests become their own bartenders and can explore a wide range of domestic, imported, and craft beers at their convenience.

PizzaRev has built a loyal following across the country for its Craft Your Own™ pizza experience, empowering guests to fully customize personal pizzas, including any of the 35-plus toppings, for one price. PizzaRev Taproom – Las Vegas combines this experience with a revolutionary self-pour beer wall – the largest such beer wall in Las Vegas. The collection of draft beers on tap, which will rotate seasonally, includes local beers, Great Basin Outlaw Oatmeal Stout, Bad Beet Brewing Bluffing Isn’t Wesse Wheat, Big Dogs Brewing Company Lager, Big Dogs Peace Love & Hoppyness, Joseph James Citra Rye Pale Ale, Lovely Lady HopAtomic Double IPA, and Able Baker Test Site Saison, among others.

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