Hot and Cool
There have always been plenty of shows that put the sin in Sin City, sexy cabaret and burlesque-inspired productions that amp up the edgy side of entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip. But no other show in this genre adds the depth and dimension that Zumanity does at New York-New York, splashing acrobatics, music and comedy into a sultry mix and achieving true artistry.
Each piece of Cirque du Soleil's steamiest production is different and certain scenes can easily compete for the unofficial title of the Strip's hottest moments. But there's much more, so many awe-inspiring elements that explain why it's a perennial favorite. Zumanity probably hasn't received its due for being one of the most provocative and influential productions ever to hit the Strip.
Dionne Warwick
Must-See: Dionne Warwick
The unmistakable voice of Dionne Warwick found a new home in Las Vegas last year when the Grammy-winning artist settled in at the intimate Cleopatra's Barge at Caesars Palace. Warwick returns this week, continuing her celebration of more than 50 years in music and riding a resurgence after last year's Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and first studio album in five years, She's Back. In this classic showroom space, Warwick's many hits, velvety voice and smooth style will transport you to a different era, and her timeless blend of pop, gospel and R&B sounds will remind you how music brings people together in such a unique way.
Around the Strip
Lady Gaga
Just before it opened on New Year's Eve at Bellagio, The Mayfair Supper Club hosted Lady Gaga and a large group of friends and performers from her residency production at Park MGM for a sneak peek of the food and entertainment offerings at the new night spot. Onstage at her Enigma show at Park Theater the following night, Gaga once again teased a possible extension of her Vegas headlining residency.
Of course Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry was at MGM Grand for the opening of his wife's International Smoke restaurant; the wood-fired cuisine concept was born in California as a collaboration between Ayesha Curry and chef Michael Mina. The group was also joined by Drake, who performed at XS Nightclub later that night.
Taye Diggs
Actor Taye Diggs attended hit comedy Opium at The Cosmopolitan during a night out in Vegas and went backstage after the show to pose for photos.
Plenty of entertainers turned out for the grand opening of Icebar at the Linq Promenade. Among the party people: Steve Falcon, Hans Klok, Tape Face, Piff the Magic Dragon and cast members from Friends! The Musical Parody, Marriage Can Be Murder, WOW, "X" Burlesque and The Miss Behave Gameshow.
Frank Marino
Las Vegas headliner Frank Marino (Divas Las Vegas, An Evening at La Cage) announced that his guest-starring gig as Joan Rivers in Legends in Concert at the Tropicana will continue indefinitely. Marino originally started performing in the celebrity impersonation spectacle in September with plans for a two-month run, which was extended. He brings Joan back to the show in February.
Brock Radke is an award-winning entertainment reporter who has been covering the city since 2000.
