Las Vegas News Briefs − November 2020

New Circa Resort & Casino Launches in Las Vegas
Circa Resort & Casino, Downtown Las Vegas’ first resort-casino built from the ground up in four decades, is now open. The 1.25 million-square-foot, adults-only property pays homage to Vegas’ Golden Era through vintage design, old-school hospitality and nods to the city’s history while introducing high-tech advancements and cutting-edge amenities. Circa’s 777-room hotel tower and rooftop lounge, Legacy Club, will open on December 28, 2020, marking the completion of the project.

• Bright colors, Vegas tributes and vintage flair define the art collection found at Circa adding a new layer to Downtown Las Vegas’ already flourishing arts and culture scene with a portfolio that celebrates the city’s history and legacy.
• Get ready burger and sports fans! Victory Burger & Wings Co. is officially open at Circa, bringing an array of indulgent gameday fare and premier views overlooking the world’s largest sportsbook. The new eatery will be defined by massive burgers, hearty wings and photo-worthy milkshakes.
• Circa debuted two retail concepts in collaboration with Marshall Retail Group (MRG), a WHSmith Company. The venues, Circa Collections and Fuel, will offer guests a selection of apparel, souvenirs, indulgent treats and more.

For more information, contact Kara Rutkin, Kirvin Doak Communications,[email protected].

The Cromwell Returns as the First Adults-Only Resort on the Las Vegas Strip
Caesars Entertainment, Inc. resumed operations at The Cromwell on Thursday, Oct. 29 as the first adults-only resort on the Las Vegas Strip. The boutique hotel and gaming floor is open seven days a week for guests 21 and over. Guests of all ages are welcome at GIADA, the award-winning restaurant of notable chef Giada De Laurentiis. This announcement follows the successful reopening of all of the Las Vegas Strip’s resorts, including Caesars Palace Las Vegas, Flamingo Las Vegas, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Paris Las Vegas, Bally’s Las Vegas, The LINQ Hotel + Experience, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, as well as The LINQ Promenade, High Roller Observation Wheel, FLY LINQ and Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck. For more information, contact Kristin Soo Hoo, Caesars Entertainment, [email protected].

Wynn Las Vegas Celebrates Debut of The New Lake of Dreams
Entertainment returns to Wynn Las Vegas with the new Lake of Dreams. Staged outdoors in an environmental theater with open-air patios for viewing, Lake of Dreams is uniquely suited for a socially distanced experience while providing all the glamour, excitement, and larger-than-life spectacle visitors expect from a Las Vegas show. In development for two years, the new Lake of Dreams is an immersive theatrical journey that unfolds over 12 high-tech artistically diverse new acts that combine magic, lights, film, music, sculpture, and puppetry. Fifteen years after Lake of Dreams first opened in 2005, the original artistic team of world-renowned creators reunited for the 2020 reimagining, including director Kenny Ortega, production designer Michael Curry, and lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe. Joining the principal team are sound designer Peter Hylenski and video design director Gary Jaeger. For more information, contact [email protected].

David Copperfield returns to the David Copperfield Theater at MGM Grand 
Emmy Award-winning illusionist David Copperfield wows audiences with his stage production Live The Impossible. Recipient of the Living Legend honor by the Library of Congress, Copperfield holds 11 Guinness World Records, has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and has sold more tickets than any solo performer in history. Oprah sums it up, “The greatest illusionist of our time.” This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Staci Wolfe, Polaris PR, [email protected].

ABSINTHE Reopens in Las Vegas
Ranked “The #1 Greatest Show in Las Vegas History,” ABSINTHE® by Spiegelworld™ recently returned to its center-Strip stage at Caesars Palace. With the safety and comfort of its audiences, performers, and staff at the forefront, Spiegelworld has implemented strict safety protocols which meet or exceed government requirements for minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Notably, guests can expect a new cabaret-style seating format inside the spiegeltent, which will allow parties of two to five to reserve tables positioned no less than six feet apart, while still feeling close to the action. In addition to a new seating configuration, ABSINTHE’s wondrous spiegeltent will be cleaned and sanitized before and after every performance, a new air purification system has been installed, guests will be screened on entry with non-contact temperature testing, masks will be mandatory for all, and table service will be provided during the show to avoid the need for guests to line-up at the bar for drinks. For more information, contact Thomas Judd, Kirvin Doak Communications, [email protected].

The Venetian Resort Announces “This is Christmas!” Holiday Show
The Venetian Resort announces, “This is Christmas!” – a holiday show with a stellar cast of Broadway stars and “American Idol” finalists at The Venetian Theatre beginning November 27.  The show will feature performances from American Idol Season 2 finalist Lou Gazzara, award-winning Broadway star Randal Keith, Las Vegas performer Jaclyn McSpadden, master magician Ben Stone, American Idol Season 3 finalist Jasmine Trias, American Idol Season 5 semi-finalist Laura Suzanne Wright, and acclaimed director, producer and performer Eric Jordan Young. For more information, contact Karla Magno, The Venetian Resort, [email protected].

GSD Group Partners with Global Design Firm Gensler to Unveil New Atari® Hotels Design
GSD Group — an innovation and strategy agency — recently announced that it has hired world-renowned architecture and design firm Gensler and unveiled their vision for the highly anticipated pop culture and video game-inspired Atari® Hotels with the first two hotels to open in Las Vegas and Phoenix. In addition, GSD Group has secured the rights to build future Atari Hotels opening in Austin, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle. The newly announced Las Vegas location will bring an experience that has never existed in a market primed for evolution. For more information, contact CJ Melendez, UberStrategist, Inc., [email protected].

Carrot Top performs in the Luxor Theater
With three decades of comedic performance in his rear-view mirror, Carrot Top is one of the most popular, recognizable and successful comedians in the nation. Utilizing a one-of-a-kind style, the resident show is ever evolving and has become a Las Vegas staple, reflecting current headlines and consistently poking fun at pop culture, politics and music. Guests must be 16 years of age or older. Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older. Carrot Top said, “Vegas entertainment is back! After eight long months, I’m so excited to announce the shows are returning. It’s been a long tough road, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel for us. Can’t wait to be BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN!” This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Scott Ghertner, MGM Resorts, [email protected].

Las Vegas’ Favorite Dragon Returns in “Piff the Magic Dragon: Too Soon?”
After seven months of sold-out virtual shows, Piff the Magic Dragon has returned for the real thing at Flamingo Las Vegas. Piff has performed at the conveniently named “Piff the Magic Dragon Theatre” for the past five years, accompanied by his Las Vegas Showgirl partner Jade Simone and magic dog Mr. Piffles. All three are thrilled to be back at the Flamingo, this time in the larger Flamingo Showroom and will be able to accommodate an audience of 250 guests per show or less. Piff has been busy the past few months working on brand new material that he has unveiled alongside a selection of his favorite tricks as well as welcoming a fellow Las Vegas headliner as his special guest each night. For more information, contact Kelly Frey, The Publicity Lab, [email protected].

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Divulges Details on Outdoor Pool and Entertainment Complex
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton, revealed details of its one-of-a-kind pool and entertainment complex encompassing five acres which has been transformed into a modern desert oasis. The new outdoor experience combines a resort pool, dayclub, The Promenade and Event Lawn, which, together, create an interactive and engaging new pool and entertainment vibe amidst a culinary party atmosphere. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas will debut January 15, 2021. The resort pool will open in March 2021. For more information, contact Terri Maruca, Kirvin Doak Communications,[email protected].

X Country is back in the saddle at Harrah’s Las Vegas
Dust off your boots and cowboy hat, as X Country has resumed performances at Harrah’s Las Vegas. Marking the first Caesars Entertainment show to reopen in Las Vegas, the adult revue returned to the famed Las Vegas Strip just in time for the show’s fifth anniversary. X Country performs inside Harrah’s Cabaret, where audiences are capped at no more than 80 people. The show performs five nights a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Featuring a combination of traditional and modern country music chart toppers, X Country showcases stimulating performances from the X Country Girls, who leave nothing to the imagination. For more information, contact Kelly Frey, The Publicity Lab, [email protected].

Plans underway for expansion of underground transportation system
Initial steps to expand Elon Musk’s innovative underground tunnel system throughout Las Vegas will soon be underway. The Vegas Loop will represent a first-of-its-kind transportation solution for a tourism destination, offering convenient transportation and reduced congestion throughout the Las Vegas resort corridor. Musk’s tunneling company recently submitted its special use permit application to the City of Las Vegas and filed a land use (design review) application in Clark County, the first steps in the process to construct the system across Las Vegas. The Vegas Loop will consist of underground tunnels stretching as far north as downtown Las Vegas, throughout the Strip corridor, and as far south as the Allegiant Stadium. Passengers will be whisked through tunnels in all-electric Tesla vehicles. For more information, contact Erica Johnson, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, [email protected].

Finger Licking Foodie Tours Partners with ARIA Resort & Casino for Socially Distanced Culinary Experience
Finger Licking Foodie Tours has partnered with ARIA Resort & Casino to present a unique and socially distanced dining experience for the ultimate night out. This two-hour, self-guided tour begins at 5 p.m. and leads guests through three critically acclaimed restaurants in one evening, all located conveniently within the AAA Five Diamond resort. Distinguished by its collection of world-renowned chefs, restaurateurs, and dining concepts, ARIA is the preeminent culinary destination in Las Vegas. Designed for a minimum of two people, this pioneering tour provides immediate seating with VIP service at three of Vegas’ most sought-after restaurants – Carbone, Jean Georges Steakhouse and Catch – to enjoy signature dishes at each venue, including a sweet treat. For more information, visitFingerLickingFoodieTours.com.

Morrissey Five-Night Residency Rescheduled
Morrissey recently announced his rescheduled, not-to-be-missed, sure-to-be-life-changing residency “Morrissey: Viva Moz Vegas” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on the Las Vegas Strip for five nights only in summer 2021. The new dates are August 28 – 29 and September 2, 4 – 5, 2021. For more information, contact Robert Jarrett, Caesars Entertainment,[email protected].

Las Vegas Awarded Nine NCAA Events
In a historic move, last month the NCAA selected Las Vegas as a host site for nine preliminary rounds and finals of predetermined championships in Divisions I, II and III to be held for the 2022-23 through 2025-26 academic years. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) partnered with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) to submit bids to host NCAA Championship Events from Division I, II and III, including tennis, golf, soccer, softball, baseball, basketball, gymnastics, hockey, bowling and volleyball. In addition to bids submitted by the LVCVA, MGM Resorts International partnered with UNLV to apply for events and was awarded the 2023 Division I Men’s Basketball Regional, to be held at T-Mobile Arena. MGM Resorts also collaborated with Las Vegas Events and was awarded the 2026 Frozen Four Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Championship at T-Mobile Arena. This was the first time Las Vegas has been permitted to submit bids. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to allow sports betting nationwide, in May 2019 the NCAA changed its policy, opening the door for Las Vegas to apply to host title events. For more information, contact Maria Phelan, LVCVA,[email protected].

Thunder From Down Under perform in the Excalibur’s Thunderland Showroom
Australia’s Thunder From Down Under is the No. 1 male revue show in the world – not only performing in Las Vegas nightly, but also touring in Germany, Ireland, Holland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, Guam, Thailand, and Macau, among others. The longest-running and highest-grossing male revue in the history of Las Vegas provides a sensual adventure for guests, using state-of-the-art lighting, amazing costumes and perfected choreography. Guests must be 18 years of age or older. Anyone under 20 years of age must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older. This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Penny Levin, SPI Entertainment, [email protected].

New Restaurant, Amalfi by Bobby Flay, To Debut at Caesars Palace
After 16 years of notable success with Mesa Grill at Caesars Palace, award-winning chef Bobby Flay plans to introduce a new restaurant concept, Amalfi by Bobby Flay, following final service on Saturday, Nov. 14. Inspired by Flay’s extensive travels to Italy and the Amalfi Coast, this will be his first Italian restaurant concept. With an anticipated late spring 2021 opening, Amalfi will transport guests to the Mediterranean with its enchanting blend of coastal ease and fresh, bright flavors. For more information, contact Chelsea Ryder, Caesars Entertainment, [email protected].

Jabbawockeez bring its signature moves and “Timeless” show to the MGM Grand Garden Arena
Jabbawockeez has developed a one-of-a-kind style that has positioned the group as the most influential dance crew in the world. Known for creativity, choreography, athleticism, and intricate synchronization, each member of the dance crew brings a different technique and perspective to form the original style that makes the Jabbawockeez so distinct. Jabbawockeez brings their new “Timeless” show, which launched earlier this year, to the MGM Grand Garden Arena. This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Scott Ghertner, MGM Resorts, [email protected].

MJ LIVE Michael Jackson Tribute Concert returns to thrill audiences at The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod
MJ LIVE, the award-winning Michael Jackson tribute concert highlighting the talent of the legendary Michael Jackson, has resumed performances in the MJ LIVE Theater at The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod. As the #1 Michael Jackson tribute show in the world, MJ LIVE recreates the electrifying stage show of one of the greatest performers of all time. From iconic dance moves like the moonwalk to timeless hits like “Bad,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller” and “Beat It,” the spot-on show brings all the Gloved One’s staples to life. Dance and sing along during the special Jackson 5 segment featuring classics like “I’ll Be There,” “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and more, inspired by Soul Train. Dazzling lighting and effects, plus the MJ LIVE dancers and a live band, make this show a true spectacular fitting of the King of Pop. For more information, contact Hillary Smoot, Red Moon PR, [email protected].

Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club takes to the stage in MGM Grand’s Studio A & B Ballrooms
Emmy Award-winning comedian and actor Brad Garrett brings his top-quality comedy to MGM Grand nightly. The club provides Garrett, as well as legendary comedians and the next generation of comics, a place to call home in Las Vegas. Guests must be 21 years of age or older. Brad Garrett said, “Cannot wait to get back to disappointing audiences.” This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Scott Ghertner, MGM Resorts, [email protected].

Tape Face Returns to Harrah’s Las Vegas in November
Sparking laughter and a sense of community, Tape Face’s return to Harrah’s Las Vegas will be louder than ever. The eccentric experience fans from around the world know and love will come back to life at Harrah’s Las Vegas on Nov. 11, 2020 with a completely redesigned show that complies with government COVID-19 regulations and has limited theater capacity maxed at 250 guests. Connecting with fans is one of Tape Face creator Sam Wills’ favorite parts of his act. Guests can expect to laugh throughout a brand-new version of the show with a never-before included all-guest “up close and personal” conversation from the stage as he kicks off the show. For more information, contact Courtney Fogle, Ivory Star Productions,[email protected].

Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Will Return Nov. 18
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is pleased to announce the iconic Ice Rink will return on Wednesday, Nov. 18 for its ninth consecutive season. Upholding tradition, the Boulevard Pool will transform into a rooftop winter wonderland featuring a 4,200-square-foot skating rink made of real ice, seasonal culinary cocktails and fare, socially distanced fire pits for s’mores making, and classic holiday films projected high above the Las Vegas Strip on the resort’s 65-foot marquee. With the safety and security of guests a top priority, and to ensure guests can comfortably and safely enjoy the holiday festivities, social distancing and reduced capacity at the Ice Rink will be strictly enforced, and guests will be required to wear face coverings unless eating or drinking while seated. For more information, contact Madi Olive, Kirvin Doak Communications, [email protected].            

Fantasy performs in the Luxor Theater
All-time Best of Vegas (2020): Best Female Revue, Fantasy has remained one of The Strip’s top productions since its premiere 20 years ago. Dynamic lead singer Lorena Peril delivers powerhouse vocals, taking center-stage alongside a talented cast of beautiful dancers. Popular among singles and couples alike, the always-evolving, sexy production showcases 15 high-energy numbers set to today’s top music. International World Champion Magician Murray Sawchuck appears as a special guest star. Guests must be 18 years of age or older. This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Lauren Cahlan, Wicked Creative,[email protected].

Vegas Golden Knights Unveil All-New Gold Jersey
The Vegas Golden Knights and adidas recently unveiled an all-new gold jersey. The gold jersey, which will serve as the team’s official third jersey, will be added to the current rotation with the jersey worn primarily while the team plays its home games at T-Mobile Arena, and the jersey worn in games when the team is on the road. The third jersey is the first all-metallic gold jersey in the history of the National Hockey League, and the first-of-its kind metallic knit iteration of the adidas ADIZERO authentic jersey. For more information, contact Eric Tosi, Vegas Golden Knights,[email protected].

The Australian Bee Gees perform in the Excalibur’s Thunderland Showroom
The Australian Bee Gees Show – A Tribute to the Bee Gees is a multi-media concert event with a contemporary perspective featuring state-of-the-art sound, superb lighting and giant screens streaming video clips, live camera images and stunning graphics. It is the definitive live celebration of five decades of memorable music written by the Brothers Gibb, one of the most successful and adored acts in musical history. This initial phase of entertainment allows for a maximum audience of 250 guests, physically distanced at 6 feet between parties and a minimum of 25 feet from on-stage performers. For more information, contact Ron Guarnieri, SPI Entertainment, [email protected].