It's not like you need another reason to come to Vegas. With the endless supply of conventions, new nightlife and changing Vegas Stripscape, there are plenty of excuses to hop a plane to the desert.

If you do need a little extra temptation, the next few weeks here may be just the right motivation to motor west.

With The Comedy Festival and the Vegoose Music Festival just around the corner, it's Vegas' unofficial festival season. Two festivals do not a season make, but I did label the season as unofficial.

Maybe a couple promoters will jump in with new festivals next year. I recommend a sand festival and a magic festival.

In the meantime, check out these too legit to quit fests:

The Comedy Festival
HBO's annual festival of laughs seems to get bigger and bigger. This year, Jerry Seinfeld is one of the top draws and in the world of stand up comedy, Jerry is as about as big as it gets. Although I realize Dane Cook, who's 'Tourgasm' stopped by the festival last year, and his fans may disagree.

Where to Stay:
Since the festival is based at Caesars Palace, if your expense account can absorb the costs, you should stay there. There's nothing like stumbling back to your room after a few cocktails with Dave Attell rather than having to que up in a long taxi line.

The Flamingo is one or two pedestrian bridges away and is a nice cost-effective alternative just across The Strip. If you must have luxury and Caesars is fully booked, try Bellagio across the street or grab a suite at The Venetian.

Who to See:
In addition to the aforementioned Mr. Seinfeld, I'm really excited to see Chelsea Handler, seen here with my pal Robin Leach. She's easily the fourth hottest woman on television behind Martha Stewart, Nigella Lawson and Sarah Alexander, but she's definitely the funniest. Chelsea was in the girl 'Candid Camera' style show known as 'Girls Behaving Badly.' She also had a brief stint as a guest host on 'The View' and now has her own show called 'Chelsea Handler Lately.'

Speaking of 'The View,' Joy Behar will be performing a show with 'SNL' alum, Kevin Nealon. Football fans will want to see Frank Caliendo as he takes his Rich Little schtick from 'Mad TV' to the 'Fox NFL Pregame Show' to his own show, 'Frank TV.'

Wanda Sykes, Eddie Izzard and Ellen DeGeneres are some of the other big names topping off the schedule.

Where to Eat, Drink and Be Merry:
Usually there are private, festival-related parties at some of the venues at Caesars Palace like PURE nightclub and The Pussycat Dolls Lounge. You can go for the gourmet gusto with expensive Vegas meal at Guy Savoy's or try something more reasonable at Bradley Ogden's or Wolfgang Puck's Spago.

After PURE, most of the big names will be hitting new spots like LAX down south on The Strip at Luxor or TAO up north at The Venetian.

Vegoose Music Festival

If you're more into chaotic outdoor music concerts than civilized indoor comedy shows, you'll want to come to Vegoose. It's the punny, annual two-day music affair to remember usually occurring on the weekend before Halloween.

This year, the festival seems to have a political bent. I'm not sure if it's because we're on the cusp of what should be a long, greedy, tortuous election cycle, but Rage Against the Machine, Public Enemy and Muse (pictured with political message backdrop) fit in nicely with the mindless, yet tasty, hum of Daft Punk and The Shins.

Where to Stay:
Sam Boyd Stadium is off of the Boulder Highway so it would be a trek from any of The Strip hotels. I'm not saying you shouldn't stay at a Strip hotel, I'm just saying it's a bit far. If you want to stay at a casino hotel closer to the stadium, try Green Valley Ranch or Sunset Station.

The Vegoose site knows their audience and recommends some campgrounds in the area. The closest are the campgrounds at Sam's Town, but be warned, it's not a short hike to the stadium.

If you want to get away from it all, but you don't want to trade a suite for a tent, explore the offerings at scenic Lake Las Vegas.



Who to See:
Muse on day two is a must-see. I had the privilege of seeing them at their show at The Joint last year and to see a band that intense at a smaller venue (they're accustomed to selling out Wembley on multiple nights) was amazing. They have all the political fervor of Rage Against the Machine packaged in a UK pretty boy box along the lines of Keane, Radiohead and Travis. Incidentally, Rage Against the Machine is headlining on day two.

If day two is all about the politics with Muse and Rage Against the Machine, then day one is all about fun with headliners Daft Punk and Iggy & the Stooges. The Shins, Blonde Redhead and Queens of the Stone Age should be part of your alterna-itenerary for day one.

For the granola crowd who appreciate the fact that the Grateful Dead played at this stadium 14 times during the '90s, you'll want to put down your tobacco accessories and jam with moe., Michael Franti and Spearhead and Infected Mushroom on day two.

Hip-hop and rap fans can rejoice for Public Enemy, Ghostface Killah, Cypress Hill and M.I.A.

Where to Eat, Drink and Be Merry:
If you're looking for the celeb hangouts in this neck of the woods, you'll have to head to Green Valley Ranch. There are some swanky eats and drinks, but most of the places here are for locals. If you're looking for some good wings and things, Sunset Station does have a Hooters.

I recommend heading up 515 until you hit Downtown Vegas and hit some of the hipster spots on Fremont East like Beauty Bar, The Griffin and Downtown Cocktail Room.

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It's easy to understand why Wayne Newton is called Mr. Las Vegas. First of all, there are the more than 30,000 solo shows the guy has played here over the last 40 years. (That's an average of 750 a year!!)

Then there's the fact that he's the consummate entertainer. Even if you are seated in the very back of the venue Wayne is playing, he has an innate ability to make you feel like you're in the first row.

And just like Vegas, Wayne has had his share of "not so great" moments. Vegas had that bizarre moment in the '90s, when it tried to become "kid friendly," while Wayne has his recent stint on 'Dancing With the Stars' to answer for.

But, even though he's had some lows, there have been far more highs in the life of Wayne Newton, the man who continues to be the archetype of the Vegas entertainer. The man who has more than earned the moniker Mr. Las Vegas.

DANKE SCHOEN (High)
Wayne Newton releasing 'Danke Schoen' in 1963 is the equivalent of Led Zeppelin releasing 'Stairway to Heaven.' OK, so maybe it's more like Barry Manilow releasing 'Copa Cabana.' Either way, its release was a pivotal moment in a career that is still going strong. More than 40 years later, it's Wayne's signature song, and its childlike enthusiasm still manages to make us smile.

DANKE SCHOEN PART II (High)
By the '80s, Wayne was already a superstar, but the inclusion of his signature song in the movie 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' -- which Ferris lip-syncs on a parade float -- helped expose him to a younger generation. For the first time, it was not only OK to admit you liked Wayne Newton if you were under the age of 40, it was cool.


USO (High)
Since succeeding Bob Hope in 2001, Wayne has served as Chairman of the USO Celebrity Circle, assisting in the recruitment of other celebrities to entertain U.S. troops. But, he is certainly not new to entertaining our men and women in uniform. In fact, Wayne has entertained service members in every military conflict since and including the Vietnam War. Maybe Mr. Las Vegas isn't broad enough to describe Wayne.

'THE ADVENTURES OF FORD FAIRLANE' (Low)
Always an affable guy, Wayne jumped at the chance to play a villain in this Andrew Dice Clay stinker of a movie. While I'm sure it gave him sick thrill portraying an evil record executive, just sharing the screen with a hack such as Clay has to be considered a low point.

THE UNFORTUNATE MOUSTACHE (Low)
To some people, there's no such thing as a good moustache. (These people obviously don't share my deep appreciation for the upper lip whiskers of guys like Burt Reynolds, Salvador Dali and Rip Taylor.) But, there is certainly a such thing as a bad stash, and Wayne has sported one a few times over the years. Please Wayne, always keep a Mach3 handy.

'VEGAS VACATION' (High)
Seven years after his villainous roll in the bomb 'Ford Fairlane,' Wayne redeemed himself by, well, playing himself in 'Vegas Vacation.' His duet with Helen Griswold (Beverly DeAngelo) is one of the movie's shining moments. It's just Wayne being Wayne, which is fine by us, because that's what he does best.

'DANCING WITH THE STARS' (Low)
Why Wayne? Who Wayne? When Wayne? Why did you decide to dance on national television? Who told you that this was a good idea? When will you fire this person? Wayne is a cool guy, but on 'Dancing with the Stars' he comes off as a stiff caricature of himself. It's sad to watch and it was only fitting that he got KO'd of the competition by Floyd Mayweather, Jr. It's going to take a while to bounce back from this one. But, he will undoubtedly bounce back. After all, he's Wayne Newton.

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Let's start with the facts.

The on again, off again, on again, off again Van Halen reunion tour is on again and the band has announced it will play two shows in Las Vegas in December.

Tickets for the band's two concerts at MGM Grand Garden Arena (Dec. 28 and Dec. 30) go on sale this Saturday, Oct. 6 at 10AM.

The tour will mark the first time since 1984 that the band has performed with David Lee Roth. However, it is not a return to the classic lineup, as bass player Michael Anthony has been replaced by Eddie Van Halen's son Wolfgang in a case of nepotism gone bad. Which brings us to the opinions, of which I have many.

I'll admit that I got misty eyed when the band first announced it was getting back together with Diamond Dave in 1996. But that was 11 years ago. It was prior to Eddie's bum hip and prior to Dave's hair extensions.

Van Halen rocks hard and is rightfully in the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame, but make no mistake about it; image played a roll in the band's success. Go ahead and scream that I'm wrong. I'm still right. Do you really think the band would have been such a juggernaut had it featured a guitarist that looked like Golem?

I'm sorry, but as nostalgic of a guy as I can be, I can't see paying $175 to see a bunch of old men trying to recapture their youth, especially when one of them can't even jog with the devil anymore, let alone run with him. Even the lyrics to 'Panama' will probably need to be rewritten.

Yeah, we're runnin' a little luke warm tonight
I can barely see the road without my bifocals on
Ahh, reach down between my legs and unhook my catheter

So, while the rest of the nostalgic suckers head to the arena in hopes of reliving a moment that can never be relived, I'll be going the cheaper and better route. I'll be at home cranking 'Unchained' to 11.

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Aug. 16 marked the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, but in Las Vegas, it's as if the King of Rock 'n' Roll never left the building.

Yes, in 1969, when he ended an eight-year absence from the stage at the International Hotel, Elvis has been as synonymous with Vegas as gambling, showgirls and the mafia folklore. Nearly every night of the week, you can see Elvis perform onstage, fall from the sky and even have him marry you. And, if the rumors are true, Elvis will have even more of a presence in Vegas in the next couple of years.

As we remember the passing of the King, we take time to remember his past, present and future in Las Vegas.

'Viva Las Vegas' - When Elvis Ruled the Strip


In 1956, Elvis made his Vegas debut at the recently shuttered New Frontier Hotel. You gotta love some of the reviews, which called Elvis "a bore," and said his musical sound was "uncouth." Talk about having your finger on the pulse of popular culture.

In July of 1963, Elvis returned to film 'Viva Las Vegas' with Ann-Margret. The movie was shot all over the city, as well as at Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.

On May 1, 1967, Elvis married Priscilla at the Aladdin Hotel. It's not there anymore, but you can always visit Planet Hollywood, which is in its place.

On July 31, 1969, Elvis opened a four-week, 57-show engagement at the International Hotel, which is now the Las Vegas Hilton. This launched the King's comeback and he'd return to Vegas countless times before his death on Aug. 16, 1977.

'It's Now or Never' - Elvis in Present Day Las Vegas

(As Mojo Nixon once sang, 'Elvis is Everywhere.' This is especially true in Vegas, where there are plenty of chances to experience the King.)

The Flying Elvi -- Made popular in the movie 'Honeymoon in Vegas,' The Flying Elvi is a 10-member skydiving team that dresses like, well, Elvis. There's no telling when the jumpsuit and wig-wearing will fall from the sky, but if you can't wait, you can always hire them for your wedding or event.

The Elvis Wedding -- Speaking of weddings, where else but Vegas can you have Elvis marry you in a car, in a bar or even on a bicycle? Check out Graceland Chapel or the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel.

The Clothes, Guitars and Cars -- First, there's the life-size statue of Elvis at Hard Rock Casino, which is dressed in one of his famous jumpsuits and is surrounded by some of his guitars, as well as gold and platinum albums. Then, at the Las Vegas Hilton, there is the famous bronze Elvis statue, officially dedicated in 1978 and refurbished last year. At the Imperial Palace Auto Collections, you can check out one of the King's Cadillacs.

The Impersonators -- In Vegas, there are probably more Elvis look-alikes per capita than slot machines. A few of the favorite shows featuring an Elvis impersonator are Legends in Concert at Imperial Palace, Big Elvis at Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon and 'Trent Carlini: The Musical History of the King,' at the Sahara.

Always on Our Minds - The Future of Elvis in Las Vegas
Cirque du Elvis -- Cirque du Soleil, which has proved it can merge icons and acrobatics with the Beatles 'LOVE,' is teaming up with Elvis Presley Enterprises to create an Elvis show that will open in November 2009 at the $7 billion MGM Mirage CityCenter project. There will also be an 'Elvis Experience' museum, planned for 2008.

Elvis Casino? -- While it may just be a rumor so far, it's hard for Elvis fans not to get excited about the idea of an Elvis-themed casino opening in Las Vegas. Reportedly, the casino would center entirely around the life and work of Elvis. No word on whether the hotel would provide jumpsuits in lieu of robes.

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Vegas turned 100 a couple of years ago, but Vegas today is nothing like Vegas from 1907. Heck, when you stand under the glorious pink neon of the Flamingo and stare out across at Caesar's Palace, you'll see that Vegas from the '60s was much different than the Vegas of today. The irony is that many of the performers who top the marquees in today's Vegas, and also topped them in the '50s, '60 and '70s, haven't changed.

Vegas mainstays such as Tom Jones and Wayne Newton may have sold millions of records and played to millions of people throughout the world, but they refuse to rest on their laurels. Despite being well over 60-years-old -- an age when many people may think it's time to kick back and relax -- they have continued performing as much as they did in their heyday. It seems to be their way of telling us, "Hey, I can still get down and throw down, and I'm not about to retire!"

But Tom and Wayne aren't the only old dudes who are still rockin'. Check out these tireless and timeless performers over the age of 60.

Tom Jones
Age: 67
See Him Rock: Aug. 9-Sept. 22 at MGM Grand
You may as well call Tom Jones Mr. Charisma because, even with a cheesy goatee and bad dye job, the Welsh Wonder still rocks like no other. Sure, he's pushing 70, but Tom still has the smooth moves and powerful voice that have caused panties to fly for more than 40 years. And who else could do a Prince song and make it cooler than the original? If you haven't seen Tom live, 'Help Yourself' to one of the greatest performers of all time during one of his MGM Grand performances throughout the year.

Elton John
Age: 60
See Him Rock: Oct. 16-Nov. 5 at Caesars Palace
Yes, 'Candle in the Wind' is one of the most non-rocking songs of all time and can cause one to consider reaching for a firearm and ending it all, but Elton John still rocks. If you've seen 'The Bitch' in his Red Piano show at Caesars Palace, you know he still has more energy and attitude than performers a third his age, even without dressing up like Donald Duck. If you haven't seen the show, what are you waiting for?!?

Tony Orlando
Age: 63
See Him Rock: August 3-5 at South Point
The man who once asked you to knock three times on the ceiling if you love him is still causing knuckles to hurt. He may not be backed by Dawn anymore, but that hasn't slowed Tony down one bit. He still spends most of his year on the road, entertaining both young and old audiences who can't get enough of his energetic performances and Tom Selleck-ish moustache.

Barry Manilow
Age: 64
See Him Rock: Ongoing at the Las Vegas Hilton
His name is Barry. He is a showman. With a lifetime's worth of flair, and a hip that's been repaired... No, not even a bum hip could keep Manilow from rockin' the Vegas Hilton, where he's been amazing Fanilows with his over-the-top 'Music and Passion' show since 2005. And it's not just devoted Fanilows who love Barry. Rolling Stone Magazine has called him, "a giant among entertainers" and, "the showman of our generation." Check out 'Music and Passion' and you'll understand.

Wayne Newton
Age: 65
See Him Rock: July 27-Aug. 4 at Harrah's
You don't get the nickname Mr. Las Vegas for nothing. Wayne Newton has performed more than 30,000 shows in Vegas over the past 40 years, and there's no reason to believe that number won't eventually reach 40,000. Simply put, the tireless performer IS Vegas. Whether he is singing, dancing, playing guitar or just interacting with the audience, Wayne is always "on." This is especially true during his famous holiday shows in Vegas, which are not to be missed. After one of his performances, you'll surely be saying, 'Danke Schoen' for Wayne Newton."

Kenny Rogers
Age: 68
See Him Rock: Sept. 22 at Aquarius Casino
OK, so, Kenny looks freaky these days. Thanks to all the crazy Botox action, he looks less like Kenny Rogers than the guys on this site. But, that doesn't change the fact that he's, well, Kenny Rogers! Since fronting The First Edition and dropping in to see what condition his condition was in, 'The Gambler' has been one of the most successful country crooners of all time. With a Grammy nomination this year, Kenny proved that he won't be counting his money anytime soon, because the dealing is far from done.

Willie Nelson
Age: 74
See Him Rock: Sept. 28 at Hard Rock
He has smoked weed on the top of the White House, fought for America's farmers and survived a financial beating by the all-powerful IRS. In other words, Willie Nelson is rock personified. And it's not just his outlaw ways or unforgettable songs that make Willie Nelson a giant; it's also his unmatched devotion to his fans. After every show, Willie hangs around outside his bus until every last fan who wants to meet him has gotten the chance. All celebrities could learn a thing or two from the Red Headed Stranger.

Tony Bennett
Age: 80
See Him Rock: Oct. 12-13 at the Las Vegas Hilton
Frank Sinatra may have been the Chairman of the Board, but Tony Bennett is undoubtedly the First Vice President. And unlike Sinatra in his later years, Tony's voice is as amazing today as it was 50 years ago. There's nothing quite like sharing a glass of wine with your significant other while hearing Tony belt out classics like 'Rags to Riches,' 'I Left My Heart in San Fransisco' and 'My Funny Valentine.' He's classy, he's the last of the great crooners and he's great, great, great!

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Here are the hot topics in Vegas and the Vegas blogosphere:

Brittany Snow Video
Vegas Heat Index: 145 in the Shade

As 'Hairspray' continues to hold firm at the box office (with more than $63 million in ticket sales), one of the stars is spreading her aqueous net of charm over Vegas. 'Hairspray' star Brittany Snow is looking fit and glam on the August cover of VEGAS Magazine and RawVegas.tv published video footage from her sexy photo shoot (above).

There's also reason to go to your the bookshop and buy a copy of VEGAS Magazine. I'm taking this straight from the media alert because it is perfect as written: "In the printed edition of VEGAS Magazine, Brittany also talks about her new movie 'Black Water Transit' where she claims she wears nothing the entire time and has sex with everyone."

Louisiana Girl Blues

Vegas Heat Index: 116


The Spears family just won't listen to Britney. She even covered a song where it was very clear that the choices she makes during her journey in life is "her prerogative." And yet, they reportedly tried to hold an intervention gathering en masse in Vegas.

On one chicken-greased hand, I can see their concern. If Anna Nicole's family had been so loving would she still be here? Maybe. Maybe not. On the other chicken-greased hand, it's no big deal. Well, the big deal is that interests like OK! Magazine are making big deals out of little deals to sell celebrity-induced comas to the masses.

I mean sure, drama is omnipresent in Britney's life, but as my old friend Smokey the Bear says, "Only you can prevent a forest fire." Until Britney decides that this adventure of crap is no longer fun, she will walk the fire line.

With Britney's divorce, she could turn it around before she goes Garbo or Jacko on everyone, but disappearing for awhile wouldn't be the worst thing. LA, Vegas, New York or Kentwood are not places where she can clear her head.

Louisiana girls are some of the finest creatures in existence. When they get wild, things are likely to get out of control and that's not necessarily a bad thing. When people around them think they need to get back on track, the normal methods of intervention won't work. You have to start by listening. She shaved her head for a reason. It's her prerogative.

Look for some more of Britney's prerogatives when she hosts the grand opening of LAX in Vegas at the Luxor.

Rock on Britney Spears.

Hackers Among Us
Vegas Heat Index: Classified

Given the slow Internet movement in Vegas, it's ironic that Vegas hosts two of the biggest computer security-related conferences, in back-to-back affairs no less. The first one is for security professionals and is called Black Hat. First rule about Black Hat is "you don't talk about Black Hat." Not really, but it sounded clever. It's perfectly OK to blog about Black Hat.

The second and funner of the two is Defcon, billed as the "Largest Underground Hacking Convention in the World." Contests this year include "Beverage Cooling Contraption" and a Xbox 360 'Guitar Hero II' shredder battle. Movie Nights this year feature a world movie premiere for the "lo-fi sci-fi" movie 'Infest Wisely.'

Vegas Celebrity Part-Time Jobs
Vegas Heat Index: 122

If you're a celebrity and in the market for a part-time job, Vegas is the place. Read about TV stars Pam, Tony, Jenny, John and Wayne and how they are "making ends meet."

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It's no secret that celebrities love to party in Vegas. Paris and Nicky Hilton, Britney Spears, Hugh Hefner, Vince Neil and Charles Barkley are just a few names that come to mind when thinking of wild nights in Sin City.

These days however, more and more celebrities are choosing to stay longer than a weekend and taking up part-time jobs "to make ends meet." No, you probably won't find Britney waiting tables at Hooters or Paris tending bar at PURE, but you will find Jenny McCarthy dealing blackjack and Pamela Anderson on-stage as a magician's assistant. Ah, only in Vegas ...

Check out what Pamela, Jenny and a few other TV celebrities are up to as part-time employees in Sin City:

PAMELA ANDERSON

After money and lights, there are few things more synonymous with Las Vegas than magic and beautiful women. Enter Pamela Anderson, who is currently working in Vegas as a magician's assistant.

No, that's not a joke. Anderson plays assistant to magician Hans Klok in 'The Beauty of Magic,' a new show at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The job, originally held by Carmen Electra, who vanished after a few weeks of rehearsing, is one Anderson is very excited about. "I love magic! I love doing things out of the ordinary and of course I'm always up for an adventure, as this will definitely be one," she said.

No word yet on whether Pamela has asked Hans to make her memories of Tommy Lee and Kid Rock disappear.

TONY DANZA

On Aug. 13, Vegas will collectively sing, "Hold me Closer Tony Danza," as the 'Who's the Boss?' star begins an 18-week engagement in the Mel Brooks' hit 'The Producers.' Danza will fill a celebrity void that was left in the musical once David Hasselhoff skipped town earlier this year. However, instead of taking over the role of cross-dressing director Roger DeBris, which the Hoff played to perfection, Danza will take over for Brad Oscar as Max Bialystock, one of the shows two lead roles.

This won't be a problem for Danza, who has already played the role on Broadway for three months. We only hope that Danza won't have any Hoff-like hamburger issues during his stay in Vegas.

JENNY MCCARTHY
The former Playboy Playmate of the Year cum-actress, cum-best-selling-author Jenny McCarthy is about to add a new job to her lengthy resume; blackjack dealer. Yes, you read that right. On Saturday, Aug. 4, from 9PM to midnight, McCarthy will slip into a vintage black Bunny costume, complete with a cute cottontail, and deal blackjack at the Playboy Club atop the Palms Casino Resort.

Talk about a brilliant idea. While you're deciding whether to hit on 16, you can hit on one of the most memorable Playmates of all time. Of course, this just means that you have a 100 percent chance of going bust at least 50 percent of the time. No matter what happens, you'll come away with the kind of story that can only be written in Las Vegas.


JOHN O' HURLEY
Another former TV star who has taken on a part-time job in a Vegas production is John O' Hurley. Best known for his recurring role as J. Peterman on 'Seinfeld,' O' Hurley goes from catalog sales to the round table in the role of King Arthur in Monty Python's 'Spamalot' at the Wynn.

The musical, created by Monty Python alum Eric Idle, has been a hit in Vegas since opening in March and O' Hurley has played a huge part in its success. However, since he commutes back and forth from Los Angeles to Vegas almost every day, O' Hurley hasn't been in town long enough for us to amass stories of his wild nights on the Strip. But, there's still time.

WAYNE BRADY
Already known for his hilarious improv skills, which were showcased on 'Whose Line is it Anyway,' and 'The Wayne Brady Show,' and currently on 'Don't Forget the Lyrics!,' comedian Wayne Brady is now a permanent headliner at The Venetian in a show called 'Making %@IT Up.'

Just as the name suggests, the show will rely heavily on improv, but there will also be a classic Vegas variety show feel, with singing, dancing and a three-piece band. In the words of one reviewer, it's "Old-school Vegas entertainment with new-Vegas cool."

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When people think of crazy music fans, old TV images of girls pulling their hair out at an Elvis Presley concert or fainting at the site of The Beatles come to mind. Then there are Jimmy Buffet's Parrot Heads with their props and costumes that proudly defy interpretation.

Perhaps the most overlooked crazed fan base is the Fanilows, fans of Barry Manilow. Even though Fanilows were 'outed' on an episode of 'Will & Grace,' they still largely remain unrecognized in the shadows of fandom.

Since 2005 when Barry launched his 'Music and Passion' show at the Las Vegas Hilton, Vegas has been Fanilow central. Ironically, the Hilton is the same location Elvis performed in his '70s Vegas heyday when it was known as the International. Whereas there is a statue commemorating the King of Rock 'n' Roll's appearances there, Barry has the largest hand-painted mural in Vegas celebrating his run in Vegas.

Unless someone has a visible 'Tony Hearts Lola' tattoo, it's hard to spot a Fanilow. There are really no outwardly detectable clues.

Fanilows are not so much into the self-mutilation like the Elvis fans, but are more passionate seemingly borrowing a line from Barry's 'Copacabana' hit: "Music and passion are always in fashion" when it comes to the Fanilows and their love for the Manilow.

Fanilows tend to be collectors and express their hopeless devotion with Barry-flavored merchandise. You might be a Fanilow if you walk into your living room and you have more than 100 Barrys looking back at you in the form of pillows, blankets, posters and the obligatory bobble head dressed in Barry's signature red velvet jacket.

In fact, you can buy one of four Barry bobbleheads at the Barry Manilow store at the Las Vegas Hilton. Some of the more interesting trinkets to prove your Fanilowness are (pictured below in order) the dog sweater, the baby onsie, the light up fan and the slot machine. You should browse the Barry Manilow online store, there's fragrance, lip balm, dog tags and even Barry wine.



In the Barry vs. Elvis debate it's interesting that Elvis is more associated with Vegas than any other music legend. I know Wayne Newton is Mr. Vegas and my fellow Sintatrians will disagree, but how many Frank Sinatra and Wayne Newton impersonators are marrying couples on Las Vegas Blvd.? If the Fanilows have anything to say about it, Barry will be in Vegas for many years and he will become the Mr. Vegas.

Maybe one day, in the not so distant future, someone that looks like Barry will be ordained as a minister and vested by the State of Nevada to marry couples and then the Fanilows can drive down the Strip in a Barry Manilow themed car and blast "Looks Like We Made It."

On a side note, Sunday, June 17 is Barry Manilow's birthday so Happy Birthday, Barry.

David Hasselhoff knows all too well that all the world is a soundstage. When the Hoff and his daughter, slash impromptu director, Taylor-Ann (above right) made one of the more infamous Las Vegas hotel room tapes, they obviously have never seen the "What Happens in Vegas' commercials. And now, we have the image a bare-chested, sloppy drunk Hoff battling beef and lettuce engrained into our head -- one man's tragedy is another's YouTube fodder.

The Hoff could have been this generation's John Wayne and before you write the hate mail for me comparing the Hoff to the Duke, I emphasize this generation's -- two very different times. But alas, David Hasselhoff also knows all too well that timing is everything.

The Hoff had already planned an exit stage right from the Vegas version of 'The Producers' before he was caught on tape 'Hasseling his burger.' The official story is he needed to focus on hosting 'America's Got Talent' -- which doesn't seem to mesh with his enthusiasm earlier this year when he talked about buying a downtown Vegas loft to move here and open a sexy Vegas revue once his run in 'The Producers' ended.

Whatever the reason, the question is being asked as to whether 'The Producers' will last in a post-Hoff world. Broadway legend Harvery Fierstein came into Vegas with as much fanfare as the Hoff when he opened 'Hairspray' at the Luxor. After his three-month run ended, 'Hairspray' lost its hold soon after.

There's enough talent and production value in 'The Producers' to carry the show. The problem is perception. If you spend that much energy on the marquee of a show, it makes for a tough ticket sell once the star leaves. Why would anybody want to pay Vegas prices to see a show that they can see at a local community theater? On a couple of price checks, the Vegas version of 'The Producers' was charging more money for a ticket than the Broadway version. I know, I know, I know that the production values and talent are certainly night-and-day better than a community theater, but again, it's the perception.

When a Vegas visitor goes into their wallet to pay $100 for a ticket, do they want to see something they can see anywhere else or do they want to see something special? If all the shows had a more reasonable price tag, they could partake in both, but expenses being what they are, the visitor is going to opt for the something special.

David Hasselhoff was that something special, a big-name personality, to attract an audience. 'Phantom' at The Venetian seems to have longevity for a Broadway show in Vegas and that production focused on technical talent bringing in legendary director Hal Prince and amping up the special effects to give audiences a unique Vegas experience. Again, it's that something special.

REWINDING THE KLOK

Just as one 'Baywatch' star is leaving, another 'Baywatcher' is replacing a third 'Baywatch' alum. Confused?

You may remember hearing about a new Vegas magic show starring Hans Klok and Carmen Elektra. Hans is the international illusionist known for the speed at which he performs his illusions. In fact you, their show was titled 'Faster Than Magic.' Well, just before the curtain was supposed to go up on that show, Carmen decided that she didn't really know she was signing up for so many rehearsals and performances when she signed her 13 week deal.

Enter Pamela Anderson. Pamela had been keeping a low Vegas profile since the Kid Rock Wedding Experience began almost a year ago. After her appearance at the World Series of Poker last July, she popped in Vegas to host a New Year's Eve party, but has been relatively quiet.

The blonde sex symbol should perform wonders the page views of local Vegas sites this summer as I'm sure there will be many sightings since she has signed on to star with Hans in 'The Beauty of Magic.' Rather than just replace Carmen with Pamela in the original show, they're launching a new show.

THE SECRET TO SHOWBIZ SUCCESS IN VEGAS

While sex appeal is often in the recipe for success of a Vegas show, uniqueness shouldn't be underestimated. It's one of the main reasons that Vegas has five sustainable Cirque du Soleil shows like 'Mystere' or 'Ka' or 'O' with more in the pipeline. Each show is different and can't be seen live anywhere else other than here in the desert.

Another secret to Cirque du Soleil's success takes a page from the brewing immigration debate: you don't need to speak English to enjoy majority of the shows. With a lot of international tourism in Vegas, that's a significant point. 'Zumanity' is an exception but sexuality is the star there which acts as a theatrical Rosetta Stone. The Beatles' songs in 'LOVE' are in English, but again, everybody knows The Beatles and the songs are musically gifted so even if you don't understand the lyrics, the marriage of music and motion is universal.

It's than universality that has developed a market in Vegas for magic than can support Hans Klok and the already long list of magic shows in Vegas. That's why various publications have dubbed Sin City as the "Magic Capital of the World." In the magic shows, a lot of the set-up to a trick may be in English, but when Lance Burton makes $10 million ($1,198,753,000 Yen.) worth of gold disappear, you don't need a Berlitz guide book to translate

Just imagine when magic combines with Cirque du Soleil in Criss Angel's show at the Luxor. That has the triple crown of Vegas attractions: a big-name personality, magic and Cirque du Soleil.

In the meantime, I'll stick to the glorified images of the Hoff.

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April 26, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PAMELA ANDERSON TO JOIN

CELEBRATED ILLUSIONIST HANS KLOK

IN "THE BEAUTY OF MAGIC"

AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD RESORT & CASINO

LAS VEGAS – International television and film star Pamela Anderson will join illusionist Hans Klok – the world's fastest magician -- in The Beauty of Magic, the new show at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Theater for the Performing Arts.

The stage spectacular will combine the illusions of Klok, fresh off his sold-out European tour with brand new illusions created just for Las Vegas, with the electrifying Anderson in a completely new and unique production.

"I love magic! I love doing things out of the ordinary and of course I'm always up for an adventure, as this will definitely be one," said Anderson, the former "Baywatch" star. "I knew that one day my dream of being a Vegas showgirl would come true -- even better a magician's assistant. It's every girl's fantasy. I'm thrilled!"

Preview performances will begin May 24 with opening night scheduled for June 2. Tickets are on sale now at the Planet Hollywood Box Office or at Ticketmaster.com.

"Pamela Anderson is the kind of international superstar that transcends entertainment," said Klok. "She is absolutely gorgeous and audiences are going to be amazed when they see what she can do in our show."

Ticket prices range from $35 to $105 (plus taxes and fees), with a special all-seats price of $35 (plus taxes and fees) for all preview performances.

After performing his first magic trick at the age of ten, Hans Klok went on to win a number of magician championships as a young man, including the European

Youth Magician Champion Trophy, the Tommy Cooper Trophy and first prize at the Grand Prix of The Netherlands. He soon began to appear on television specials in both Europe and the United States, including "The World's Greatest Magic" on NBC and "The Masters of Magic" on ABC. Now hailed as the fastest magician in the world and "The Dutch Copperfield," Klok's live stage shows have been selling out large arenas throughout Europe and Asia for the past decade.

The Beauty of Magic is produced by Stage Entertainment in conjunction with Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

SOURCE: KIRVIN DOAK

If, like me, you were too young to enjoy the hazy, beer-sodden, sex-driven days of the "hair band" in the hazy, beer-sodden arenas of Detroit, Cleveland and other points mid-west then you may wish to keep reading. If, like me, you were forced to get your fill of Axl and Slash and Vince afternoons after school via MTV, then your prayers--and mine--have indeed been answered.

Straight from the Sunset Strip in the City of Angels, heavy metal comedy tribute band Metal Skool will once again return to Vegas to rock the Rock in the City of Sin. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino that is. Starting Thursday, April 26, and running through the first week of July, the fabulously tressed and oh-so-horrifically dressed foursome will throw down all your favorites from Warrant and Bon Jovi to