Archive for March, 2010

If you thought there wasn’t much going on in Las Vegas last week, you must have been sleeping. We need to remember that on any given day or night we can find entertainment through out Las Vegas that includes such “regulars” as comedians Vinny Favorito and George Wallace who both star at The Flamingo, Frank Caliendo at The Monte Carlo, Rita Rudner at Harrah’s and Gordie Brown downtown at The Golden Nugget. If the comedy scene isn’t for you try an evening with Barry Manilow at the Paris or crooning sensation, new to the Las Vegas scene, Matt Goss at Caesars Palace,( weekends only). If you’re looking for production numbers that rival anything on Broadway, try The Lion King at Mandalay Bay, Phantom at The Venetian, or Menopause the Musical at The Luxor. Don’t forget the entertainment provided by such magicians as Penn & Teller at The Rio All Suites, Mac King at Harrah’s and Lance Burton at The Monte Carlo.

In addition to all our “regular” entertainers, last week offered up appearances by such featured stars as Lionel Richie at Caesars Colosseum, David Spade at The Venetian and David Copperfield at The MGM Grand. If you missed any of the shows mentioned, not to worry. As we say farewell to March 2010 we welcome a new month and featured stars will once again add to the current marquees of our regular outstanding entertainers. Las Vegas…. entertainment unlimited.

Fifty Years of Music & Movies featuring Michel Legrand & Friends provided a spectacular line up at The MGM Grand with appearances by George Benson, Steve Lawrence, Neil Sedaka, Jerry Lewis and Dionne Warwick just to name of a few. It was star power for sure and also featured a 66 piece orchestra, conducted by Legrand himself.

One of the most successful attractions on the Las Vegas Strip is the Donny & Marie show at the Flamingo. It was good news for everyone with the announcement of Marie’s return and the shows are once again sell outs. The Donny & Marie show was voted The Best in 2009 and from all reports the accolades will continue for this dynamic but delightful duo.

Cirque is providing a locals-only special offer through April 30th. Tickets for Ka, Zumanity, Mystere, and Believe are available at $49.00, These fabulous productions are now well within the reach of our Nevada residents. The Hilton is also running a locals-only special at their rBulffet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sunday Brunch. Bulffets start at $3.99-Check with The Hilton for details.

We went to see Barry Manilow’s new show at The Paris this weekend. Barry is still Barry, new show or not. His fans still adore him and his music. However, the sound system at this theater leaves much to be desired. Whoever engineered this system does not know what Barry needs in the way of sound, and adjustments should be made as quickly as possible.

How rude! A process server showed up at The Tropicana to find Wayne Newton at his own Meet and Greet, which is a feature offered to fans before the show. Seems Wayne’s financial problems keep chasing him. As of this date there’s no confirmation Wayne’s contract will be extended at The Tropicana. Maybe a helping hand like a benefit for this beloved and long time Las Vegas icon should be considered. Wayne was probably the biggest draw Las Vegas had in the 1980′s and 90′s. He’s the original Mr. Las Vegas.

ShoWest is one of the many tradeshows that makes Las Vegas their destination of choice. Bally’s was the scene for last week’s ShoWest exhibition which always attracts stars of the big screen. One of last week’s stars, Katherine Heigl, had a major wardrobe malfunction with the bodice of her gown while accepting her award. Luckily, host Billy Bush came to her rescue.

The queen of television, Oprah Winfrey, settled out of court with the head mistress of her girl’s school in Africa. Word is both sides were satisfied with the results. More news on the television front is that Rosie O’Donnell is returning to daytime television. Supposedly this time she’ll be featuring items on the more serious side such as health issues and inspirational themes. Are we ready for that?

Sinbad, a long time Las Vegas favorite, just lost his “job” on Donald Trump’s show The Apprentice. The comic quips that he may have to become a hit man for the mob. His financial woes have caused him to file for bankruptcy and he allegedly may loose his house What a shame. Sinbad is one of the funniest comis around and does not have to resort to four letter words to be that way.

Our favorite, comedy great JOAN RIVERS, whom you also know from TV”s Red Carpet events, QVC, and Celebrity Apprentice Champion, is coming back to Las Vegas. Joan will be appearing at The Venetian on April 8-10, April 15-17 and July 8-10 and July 15-17. See Venetian Tickets.com or call The Venetian for more info

Doo-Wopp Hall of Fame of America will be making its Las Vegas premier at The Venetian on April 23 and 24.The show will feature five acts featuring Hall of Fame inductees from the 50′s qnd 60′s. They include The Skyliners, The Marcels, The Drifters, The Mystic and The Royalty of Rock ‘n’ Roll All Stars. About eight years ago yours truly, Monti Rock III, was the host and emcee of a Hip Hop show at the old Castaways. After leaving the Castaways, the show moved to Caesars in Reno, where I continued as host and emcee. It was an experience.

Frank Sinatra Jr and his 20 piece big band will be paying tribute to “The Man’ at The Suncoast in mid April. Frank Jr performs many Sinatra classics,such as One For My Baby, I’ve Got You Under My Skin. . He’s also performed as a solo with such greats as George Burns, Flip Wilson, and Phil Harris, as well as becoming musical conductor for his famous father.

There may be news before long about the Steve Wyrick Theater at Planet Hollywood. David Saxe is still working to take over the theater and his resume reveals his success at Planet Hollywood.

Look for David Hasselhoff as a possible Strip headliner in the not too distant future. He his now shooting a reality show with is daughters and made an appearance at the Knight Rider Festival last week at The Fremont Street Experience. He also joined George Wallace on stage during George’s Flamingo show. The “Hoff” appeared here in the Las Vegas production of The Producers not too long ago. There are many who don;t know that “The Hoff” became a top recording star in Germany after starrring in TV”s Baywatch.

Rockhouse Bar and Nightclub celebrated its “First Annual Late Grand Opening Party from Las Year” This club blends a local dive bar with the glamour of “Sin City”. and is located in the heart of The Las Vegas Strip near Caesars Palace.

Robert Culp hadn’t been a feature of television for sometime but never the less we were saddened to hear of his death at the age of 79. Culp was a ground breaker of sorts when he and Bill Cosby became co-stars in the highly successful television show I Spy, one of the first shows in which a black and a white man had co-starring roles.

Asian star Aaron Kwok , who was signed to an exclusive appearance at The Wynn, has had to postpone his show. Seems his visa to the United States has been held up by the Sri Lanka government. Politics infringing on the arts once again!

As always, the Rev.Monti wishes you a wonderful week.

Even though a direct connection hasn’t been made between the death of Corey Haim and the arrest of prescription drug dealers in California, sources have recently written that an unauthorized prescription drug was found during the investigation of Corey’s death. Investigations are underway to determine if Rx pads stolen from doctors are being used to furnish celebrities and others with illegally obtained prescription drugs. Why is that a celebrity has to die or become seriously ill before the authorities investigate the source of the drugs they may be using or begin major research on a disease that has caused the death of a celebrity? Two cases in point: Rock Hudson-HIV/AIDS and Rita Hayworth-Alzheimer’s.

Audiences were disappointed with the latest cancellation of The Donny & Marie Show at the Flamingo. Most friends and fans thought is was just too soon for Marie to return to work following the loss of her son. This show can and will be waiting and Marie is reportedly returning on March 23. Once again we wish Marie and her family only the best.

Show biz lost veteran performer Cheri DeCastro of the famous DeCastro Sisters last week. They went from the Cuban nightclub scene to Miami in 1945 and then on to appearances in films and TV. They were inducted into the Casino Legends Hall of Fame as”Las Vegas Living Legends”in the late 1990′s. Cheri, in addition to her singing, was known for her great beauty and resemblance to Elizabeth Taylor.

Actor Peter Graves also passed away last week at his home after having brunch with his family Peter, brother of actor James Arness, was best known for his Mr. Phelps role on TV’s Mission Impossible, and for the movie Airplane. He also appeared in the classic Stalag 17 movie and was the host of TV’s Biography for several seasons.

In the days of yours truly, Monti Rock III, who had an addictive compulsive personality, it wasn’t just A drug. I was an addict. When I talk to anyone in this situation, I tell them intervention worked for me, and it wasn’t even a television reality show. In those days the plan was just work on the addiction, not work on a television show. I’ve been clean for 16 years. Bottom line for any addict, until you are willing to address the problem, there’s no cure.

It was just announced that Tiger Woods is coming back. He’s returning to play in the Masters, scene of some of his many triumphs. According to rumor, Elin has seen a divorce attorney and is not wearing her wedding ring. Tiger may be good for golf but his sex life need not be splattered all over the scandal sheets. That’s between him and his wife. The media should leave it alone.

For months I’ve been writing about Menopause the Musical at the Luxor, starring my friend Paige O’Hara. The show continues to run at capacity business. But one of it’s featured stars, ANNETTE VERDOLENO, appeared in Seattle at the annual Moisture Festival last week, where she recreated her character, Blanche DeBris. True to her character’s attitude and name (which in French is white trash) she brought down the house. It’s always nice to see local Las Vegas talent make an impact in other shows nationwide.

Unfortunately the Sandra Bullock and Jesse James rumors turned out to be true. Her gracious acceptance speech at the recent Academy Awards was even more touching when the camera showed Jesse near tears. Hopefully, he hasn’t joined the Tiger Woods Fun Foundation. Can’t help but wonder if Sandra is another victim of the Oscar curse – winning the top honor only to have her marriage implode. Especially the same week as last year’s Best Actress Kate Winslet split from her husband, Sam Mendes.

Last weekend Jay Leno appeared at the Mirage to his usual full house. Jay likes to use stand-up gigs to introduce some of his new jokes. He continues to be one busy man, with personal appearances and helming the Tonight Show. Other late hosts seem to find a certain sense of self-satisfaction with their mean-spirited banter about Jay’s return to late night television. Maybe it’s just sour grapes on the part of these other guys, especially Jimmy Kimmel. They should learn from the network evening news anchors, who compete on a daily basis but do not resort to putting each other down,

American Idol may not be my favorite TV show any longer, but I do find myself tuning in to catch glimpses of the action each week. I didn’t catch any of the young singers last week, but I did see Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell exchanging sharp verbal jabs. Are they really feuding or is it just part of the show? Maybe it’s all just for ratings. Could it be they’re trying to create some new interest in the show since former Idol judge Paula Abdul is reportedly considering hosting a revival of Star Search? Her new show would be in direct competition with Idol.

Another television favorite of the masses is Dancing With the Stars, which returns on March 22. They have a diverse line-up this year, as well as a new co-host, Brooke Burke. Brooke is well-known to TV viewers after winning Dancing’s mirrored-ball trophy two seasons ago. The show will also have as its oldest contestant, 80-year-old moon-walking astronaut Buzz Aldrin.

It’s expected that March Madness will bring in the revenue for Las Vegas. This is one of the most popular sporting events for the year, according to Vegas casinos and sports books.

The Las Vegas Hilton will feature rock band Chicago with their long-time familiar sound on April 2 and 3. Vocal virtuosos Earth, Wind & Fire bring their unique sound and energy to the Hilton on April 16 and 17. Also on the agenda are Little Anthony and the Imperials on April 30 and Petula Clark on May 1. Several tribute shows to various music legends fill in the other April/May weekends.

Frank, Sammy and Dean live on at The Rampart Casino on March 26 and 28 with Ryan Baker (Frank), Bryan Clark (Sammy) and Rick Michel (Dean). They, of course, will be doing the standards, as well as new songs done in the style of those greats.

A newcomer to the Las Vegas scene is Aaron Kwok, who will make his exclusive appearance at Wynn Las Vegas April 2-3, where he’ll perform in Dancing King Concert – World Tour. In both Hong Kong and Asia, Aaron is known simply as the Dancing King and considered a star of both song and dance. Las Vegas is at the absolute top of the list when it comes to entertainment, so it’s no surprise Aaron Kwok picked Wynn Las Vegas as a stop on his world tour. Call (702) 770-7469 for tickets to this extravaganza.

Coming soon: more information about the Rick Belcastro’s Badda Bing Club special feature, The Monti Rock Chapel of Lust

Once again the Rev. Monti wishes you all a great week.

There’s no business like show business. Marie Osmond bravely proved to everyone that the show must go on as she dedicated her performance at the Flamingo to her son. It could be the best cure – having family near and going back on stage. My hat’s off to Marie and causes me to remember when my own mother died. I flew from Miami to New York and immediately went back on stage knowing it was what my mother would have wanted. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Osmond family.

Another sad note is the untimely passing of former teen idol Corey Haim, age 38, last week in his Los Angeles apartment. Corey had not been feeling well for a few days prior to his death and his mother was at his side when he died. He started using marijuana in the 1980′s and progressed to crack and cocaine. After many stints in rehab, he fell off again and became addicted to over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Apparantly this has led to a full investigation into an alleged illegal prescription drug syndicate which preys especially on celebrities. Corey’s constant highs ruined his career as well as his health. His closest friend, actor Corey Feldman, cut off all communication with him and said he would no longer speak to him until he got straight. Michael Blosil (Marie Osmond’s son), actors Andrew Koenig and Corey Haim all had much to live for but obviously could not handle the pressures of the Hollywood lifestyle.

The opening night of Barry Manilow’s new show at Paris was briefly brought to a stop when they abruptly cancelled the show due to a lighting problem. The trouble was quickly resolved and Barry opened the following night.

Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin did an admirable job hosting the Academy Awards. These two really work well together. Fashion kudos to Helen Mirren, J-Lo, Cameron Diaz, Demi Moore, and of course, Sandra Bullock. It was disappointing that the Academy didn’t acknowledge Farrah Fawcett, Bea Arthur or Ricardo Montalban in the memorial segment. For me, the best part of the show was the red-headed woman, who was actually one of the producers of the documentary that was receiving the Oscar. She couldn’t sprint fast enough to get to the microphone first, but then created her own version of a Kanye West moment. Other than that, for me the show was too long, boring and snoring. It definely needed more production numbers and more “Hollywood Royalty” to add some prestige to the show.

Dita Von Teese, referred to as the International Queen of Burlesque, will be at the MGM Grand for a limited engagement and is offering a “meet and greet” for her fans. The Queen’s show dates are March 31 to April 7. The Pussycat Dolls have left Pure nightclub, but will soon be performing at the former Risque opposite Paris. Pure will reopen in May with a new theme. Matt Goss, who ended his Palms engagement, will be appearing at Cleopatra’s Lounge at Caesars on Fridays and SaturdaysHe is backed by a 7-piece band and female dancers.

Thanks to more that 500,000 positve responses, the fantastic Betty White will be hosting Saturday Night Live on May 8th. At 88, she still cavorts with the best of them and then some. We love you, Betty!

It hasn’t happened often so it makes news when the event takes place. On March 27, for one hour starting at 8:30 PST, marquees and lighted signs on the Las Vegas Strip will go dark for one hour. This includes the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. Why, do you ask? It’s a global call to action on climate change touted as World Wildlife Fund 2010 Earth Hour. Has anyone seen Al Gore lately?

Clint Holmes will serve as Master of Ceremonies on May 7 at Mandalay Bay Resort when the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) celebrates their Hope Gala. JDRF is known as a leader in diabetes research. It is expected that the evening will be quite the event for all in attendance. Call (702) 732-4795 for full details and reservations.

Be sure to mark your calendars for April 17 and 18 when Suzanne Goulet and Denise Rose star in Judy & Liza – Together Again at the Suncoast. The ladies have performed the mother-daughter act across the country and are bringing the Liza Minelli and Judy Garland tribute to Las Vegas. Another calendar event is the appearance of Tracy Morgan from TV’s most successful show, 30 Rock, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on June 5. A sold out show is anticipated since the tickets have already gone on sale..

It was just announced that Conan O”Brien will be stopping at The Palms on May 1st and 2nd. as part of his 30 city tour. Since he can’t perform on TV due to his agreement with NBC, this venture will definitely keep him in front of the public until such time as he once again hits the small screen. The title is “THE LEGALLY PROHIBITED FROM BEING FUNNY ON TELEVISION TOUR”. and ticket sales are reprtedly doing well.

Last week was the one-year anniversary of Terry Fator at Mirage. Side note: Does America Have Talent??????

Salsa fans take notice. Michito and his fabulous Latin band, featuring Johnny(Dandy) Rodriguez on percussion, is now appearing at the Chianti Cafe at 1916 Village Center Circle in Summerlin on Tuesday nights. This is in addition to the Friday nights at the South Point Casino is another reason to keep your “dancin” shoes in ship shape.

Thanks to MGM/Mirage’s wonderful Richard Sturm, I enjoyed the fabulous buffet at Aria last week, which is a 10 on my “rate the buffet” list. Following the meal, Mr. Sturm treated me and my guest to Viva Elvis – the latest of the Cirque productions. Having seen the show before I can only add that the show just seems to get better each time I see it. And don’t forget the More Buffet at The Luxor, which has just about the best salad bar in town.

For all my wonderful Monti fans, Saturday Night Fever – The Inside Story will air on A&E Biography Channel Wednesday March 17.at 6 PM PST-9 PM EST. I haven’t seen it yet, but I understand it’s a different take on one of the most successful movies of our generation.

As always, the Rev. Monti wishes you all a great week!

Well, Oscar came and went. Good show, though a little too long, as it ran over for 30+ minutes. Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin were great as the cohosts, constantly chiding the celebs and each other. The Hurt Locker, a “small” but important film walked away with 6 Oscars, including the first woman to win the directors’ Oscar. Front runner, Avatar, is raking in at the boxoffice, but Hurt Locker is taking the awards. I was glad to see Jeff Bridges finally get his statue, which was long overdue. Mo”Nique added her Oscar, (best supporting actress), to all the other major film awards she’s won this season, and rightfully so. Sandra Bullock took the prize for best actress in a leading role. Christoph Waltz won best supporting actor for his portrayal of an off the wall Nazi officer in Quentin Tarintino’s “Inglourious Basterds”. For the most part, the stars were all well-dressed, well-groomed, and well mannered. All in all it was an entertaining, smooth running show, but it did lack some excitement until the “Kanye Moment”, when one of the acceptance speeches was interrupted by a disgruntled associate from the audience running on stage and taking over the mike proving that in-fighting should stay behind the scene-no one knew what was going on. The show also needed more musical productions.

The ladies “look” of the evening was strapless. Metalalics, deep blues, and neutrals were dominant. Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Sandra Bullock, and Demi Moore just about stole the show. Mo’Nique once again paid homage to the late Hattie McDaniel, wearilng a gardenia in her hair as did Hattie when she won her Oscar in 1939.

As an “entertainment news” columnist looking for exciting scoops every week, it’s usually the entertainers themselves, the shows or maybe just the showrooms and beautiful hotels that are the subject. Recent events remind us that entertainers in many ways are regular people with highs and lows faced by many. And so, we send our condolences and sympathy to Marie Osmond and her family over the loss of Marie’s 18-year-old son Michael Blosil. The word family is almost synonymous with Osmond. Their good looks, energy, personalities and laughter managed to keep all of us smiling for a long time and we look forward to the return of Donny and Marie Osmond’s show at the Flamingo on March 9. As of this writing they have added five shows in April.

News of his financial problems took second place for Wayne Newton while he was in St. Louis at the hospital where his daughter was recovering from a coma brought about by complications from her pregnancy. He can breathe a sigh of relief now and get back to work at the Tropicana where his show, Once Before I Go, is supposed to continue. His contract has not as yet been renewed.

There was a surprise at the Tropicana last week when Dirk Arthur’s show was reportedly canceled. I always felt that Dirk’s show was the heir apparent when it came to exotic animal acts because of those beautiful tigers. Hopefully, Dirk and his cats will find a new location soon.

Last Friday, I returned to Aria in CityCenter to see Elvis Live again. After seeing the show for the fourth time, I still say I love it! This time, I just wanted to see it as a regular patron, no media hoopla, no special seats. This show looks and sounds great from any part of this beautiful new theater.

Latest news from my friend Charo is that she’s back at work. She’s on tour right now but is releasing a new CD and said her reality show is a reality. Another friend, Bob Anderson, was recently trying to seal a deal with another hotel here in Vegas, but at the last minute the deal fell through. For right now, Bob will keep his appearances at the Cannery North and the Rampart in Summerlin. We love you, Bob!

As a longtime fan of television’s No. 1 show, American Idol, I must report…. I turned it off. It’s become a snooze.

The Tonight Show with Jay Leno is back on the air and Sarah Palin has already made a guest appearance. In case you didn’t catch the show, she was pretty good as a stand-up comedian. One thing is for sure, this lady is not shy. Sarah Palin as Tina Fey in Legends in Concert? I don’t think so but she might surprise everyone. And what about the rumor that Conan O”Brien may stop in Las Vegas as part of his proposed national tour? His exit agreement with NBC does not allow him to appear on TV, and this would be a great way to keep in the the public’s eye.

Station Casinos has been busy revamping its entertainment scene, adding weekly shows to its lineup. Palace Station will present Rock ‘n’ Roll 2 Soul beginning March 12. Featured are the original Coasters, Mary Williams of the Shirelles, and Elvis tribute artist Jonathon Von Brana among others. Bonkerz has been renamed The Palace Showroom. Other Station locations are also adding to their lineups.

Last week, Barry Manilow opened his new show at The Paris. From what I hear, he has nothing to worry about. Setting his new show in a theater rather than an arena-style venue makes his performance a mixture of songwriter’s concert and Broadway review. And the high-tech visuals add a further dimension to the production. The media opening will be next month, so there will be more to come on Barry’s latest venture.

At Hooters, the X-Men has been canceled to make room for an Elvis tribute show.

Thursday, March 4 was the third anniversary of X-Burlesque at the Flamingo. Additional numbers, additional choreography and new costumes make for a newly-extended show.

Terry Jenkins, Director of Entertainment for Boyd Gaming, provided the showroom and all that goes with it at the Suncoast so that friends of Bill Fayne could produce a benefit show for their pal. Bill is on the mend, which is good news, but his friends wanted to provide financial help. What a show it was, too. Clint Holmes and wife Kelly Clinton were hosts and the talent lineup was amazing. Bill Fayne has been Clint’s musical director for years and they have been friends since college. Bill is well known in the entertainment industry for his great musicianship, and more recently as one of the tenors in Las Vegas Tenors. It’s easy to rally around someone like Bill Fayne who is talented and genuine. Again, a shout-out to Terry Jenkins and Boyd Gaming. You’re a true gentleman, Terry. All of the proceeds from this sold out show are going to Bill to help with his mortgage and soaring medical expenses.

Kudos to Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar! They are featuring a special “Opportunitini” cocktail through April 1 with 100 percent of the proceeds from this speciality drink will benefit Opportunity Village. We would like to see more of this kind of philanthropy from the many fine clubs around town.

Rick Belcastro’s Badda Bing Gentlemen’s Club now has a great new billboard vehicle running up and down The Strip. Badda Bing is a beautiful multi-level club that will be the future home of the Chapel of Lust., where yours truly, the Rev. Monti, hopes to perform wedding ceremonies

Rev. Monti, once again, wishes you all a great week.

Memories of Elvis Presley and personal encounters with him have been front and center for this columnist since attending the “blue carpet” opening of Viva Elvis at Aria in CityCenter. I was both impressed and depressed at what we call star power. It was only natural that Priscilla Presley would be at the opening and also spotted was Ryan Seacrest and Eva Longoria Parker.  Recently, Eva has become known for attending an opening of an envelope.  Let’s be honest. What television’s Desperate Housewives has done for this Mexican spitfire is quite extraordinary. But I digress…. Watching the arrivals and checking the audience, I saw the media, the so-called media, the bottom feeders and who-the-hell cares.

Elvis Live, the latest of the Cirque Du Soleil shows is really a tribute to a legend. As a superstar, he brought worldwide attention to both Las Vegas and the International Hotel, which is now the Hilton. Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker were definitely a megaforce in rock ‘n’ roll. The show itself is filled with scenes from all the King’s movies, showcasing his vocal power and highlighting his unprecedented number of chart-topping hits. This extravaganza reminds us all of the earthshaking phenomenon that was Elvis Presley.

Back in 1968, when I opened at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas was buzzing with news about Evil Knievel, who was attempting to jump the fountains at Caesars; the latest too cool antics of Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack  and how Louis Prima and Keeley Smith were filling the lounges. In those days, and thanks to the mob, stars were provided such things as Rolls Royces, suites of rooms, and  unlimited credit at the tables. It was a special time.

Before making the Vegas scene, I had been working in Hollywood at the Red Velvet, which was also showcasing The Righteous Brothers, Freddy Walker and a New York hairdresser who called himself Monti Rock III. I remember Elvis and his bodyguards coming to the Red Velvet to see yours truly. At the time, I didn’t know, nor was I aware, of the enormity of Elvis Presley.

Anyone that saw Elvis perform live was well aware of the charisma and the magic this man possessed. The Elvis Live tribute show at Aria is a show that’s becoming a miracle in the making. Not everyone is going to like it, but this columnist loved it.

Thursday, February 25, was the official opening of Frank Marino’s Divas Las Vegas at The Imperial Palace. The evening started with it’s own red carpet and a celebrity-filled crowd. The key to this show, in addition to my friend Frank Marino, is the wonderful Larry Edwards, who has become a staunch supporter and the number one promoter of this exciting production. Larry, performing as Beyonce, is a showstopper. Adam Steck, who’s Frank’s co-producer of the show, is also the producer of Human Nature at Imperial Palace. Divas Las Vegas is sure to be a draw for visitors to our city.

John Stuart, a Las Vegas icon in his own right, and I recently spoke over the telephone and John informed me he will be opening three shows at Station Casinos in March. John is known for his Legends in Concert that held court at Imperial Palace for about 20 years before moving to Harrah’s. As producer/creator of Legends, John and I first developed a friendship when we talked about adding yours truly to the lineup several years ago. At the time, it was a great idea. Currently, John is producing Rick Thomas at the Sahara and Lani Misalucha in Voices at the Hilton. Here’s to John and his new venture with Station Casinos. I always wish the best for him.

Sad news– Our heartfelt sympathy to Marie Osmond and her family.  Marie is devastated by the loss of her son in California. who died last Friday. He,unfortunately, had been suffering from depression most of his life.

As of this printing, Harrah’s has officially taken over Planet Hollywood.  Robert Earl, former owner/president of Planet Hollywood, will continue as a consultant for Harrah’s. What Planet Hollywood needs right now is a total overhaul. Peep Show will soon re-open, but the main showroom, which is a great venue, remains empty.

Mandalay Bay has a special offer for locals that includes dinner at one of four signature restaurants with upgraded seating for Disney’s The Lion King. Restaurants in the package are Aureole, a favorite of mine, RM Seafood, Stripsteak and Fleur de Lys. Remember, it’s just for us locals, and it’s a great opportunity to enjoy a night on the town.  Call (877) 632-7400 for reservations.  Next door, at The Luxor, is one of our favorite buffets, The More Buffet,

An updated entertainment schedule was just released by the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Hard Rock is a favorite of the younger crowd, but I was mildly surprised by the schedule since it included country stars Keith Urban, Zac Brown Band and Kenny Chesney.

MGM’s Grand Hollywood Theater has booked the hit off-Broadway musical, “Girls Night: The Musical for a limited engagement beginng May 6.  Critics describe this as Sex in The city meets  Desperate Housewives  and Grease. Girls Night is a hilarious, feel good comedy with chaart stopping female anthems like I Will Survive, Lady Marmalade, and man more.  Tickets are now on sale.

Last Saturday, Barry Manilow was the star of Keep Memory Alive at the Bellagio. It was a fundraiser for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. Barry was a true star when he generously waived his normal fee of $1.2 million and even went so far as to pay the musicians, too. Many people aren’t aware of Barry’s generosity, but it’s rumored he may make a special announcement for Las Vegas when he opens at the Paris in March.  Some anticipate Barry will initiate something similar to the Manilow Music Project in Palm Springs, where Barry resides. The project provides musical instruments and music supplies to both middle and high schools in the Palm Springs area.

It was a big weekend for the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Celebrities from all over flew into Vegas to catch the NASCAR events. With the draw created by NASCAR, this should have been a good week for the lagging Vegas economy.

Las Vegas has its own Walk of Stars, where Rich Little, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin have their names enshrined. Is it true that Frank Marino will be receiving his second star? The Monti Rock III star will be downtown, somewhere near the Golden Nugget.  Actually, I want my own street.

The original Mr. Las Vegas, Wayne Newton, continues to be in the news. Sheriff deputies were reportedly turned away at the gates of his Las Vegas home, trying to collect a $500,000 judgement for money he owes to a former pilot. In addtion to this, NASCAR executive Burton Smith is seeking to seize Wayne’s home as repayment for a $3.35 million loan. In addition to this, Wayne’s infant grandchild is seriously ill and we hope thje child gets well soon.  And now Wayne’s contract at the Tropicana is up for renewal . Troulble just doesn’t let up for  Mr. Las Vegas . Rumor has it the Trop wants to close the showroom for a complete makeover and possibly go in a new direction. Many performers are in the wings with new shows ready to go.

Stephanie Sanchez – star of Fantasy for 10 years – has a brand new CD, Smalltown, about her hometown of Las Vegas. The CD had its debut this week and can be downloaded. This lovely performer has appeared in various Vegas productions since debuting at age 17 in Bob Stupak’s  “Halleluja Las Vegas.” In addition to nightly performances in several shows,  she worked a variety of other jobs to help raise her two children. We wish her the best in this latest venture.

Last week, my staff and I had a fabulous dinner at Ali Baba, the fine Lebanese restaurant located at 8826 S. Eastern Ave. The “mezza” appetizer combo consisting of 6-12 selections, is a must. They also feature belly dancing every evening. This is truly a fine dining experience. Check out their website:
www.alibabalasvegas.com  for more information.

Last week slso saw the grand opening of The S& K Music Studio on W. Flamingo Road. We now have a new  local state of the art recording studio, where, incidentally, I will record my next single. They also have a wonderful staff of music instructors, some of whom performed at the opening.  Owners Snake and Karen Rock, well versed in the music business have got themselves a winner.

COMING SOON: More news about the Rev. Monti’s Chapel of Lust in Rick Belcastro’s beautiful Badda Bing Club.

As always the Rev. Monti wishes you all a great week!