Anita Mann, the creative force behind the incredibly successful Fantasy: The Strip’s Sexiest Tease (25 years and counting), is a woman who truly knows and appreciates her history. Indeed, her show, which features some of the world’s most beautiful, athletic women in a variety of dance styles, is a nod to the bygone showgirl era, one that helped to define Vegas in the mid-20th century.
The showgirl, which originated in Las Vegas with the opening of the Moulin Rouge Hotel on May 24, 1955, is still considered one of the city’s most enduring symbols. The impact showgirls had on Mann’s life is now immortalized forever; this year, the National Day Archives commemorated May 24 as National Showgirl Day, and Mann led the charge to make that happen.
Mann, who began her career in show business at a young age, still remembers her introduction to the showgirl vividly: “When I was a young dancer working at the Moulin Rouge in Hollywood, I recall watching the showgirls arrive for their shows,” said Mann in a prepared statement.
“They were stunning, talented and deeply committed to their art. Those women inspired my love for Las Vegas, and I’ve always felt they deserve recognition for shaping what it truly means to be a Las Vegas performer. They are the heart of this city’s entertainment legacy.”
It’s easy to see the influence on Mann’s Fantasy. Through 15 numbers, women from all over the globe wear some truly striking costumes (which, of course, often come off, this being a topless, adults-only show) while engaging in numbers that show off both physical skill and sensuality. Mandy Moore, who choreographed the movie musical La La Land, recently created new opening and closing numbers, and revamped some of the show’s more classic moments.
The show’s musical element remains a strong part of its success, thanks to emcee Lorena Peril, who’s as adept at hitting the high notes to “Roxanne” as she is loosening up audiences with her sense of humor.
Thanks to shows like Fantasy, audiences will always have a connection to a key part of Las Vegas history.
Luxor, 18+. 702.262.4400. luxor.mgmresorts.com
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