by Norm Johnson Send Me E-mail

Got invited to the First Anniversary celebration for Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular last week. Wow, what a wonderful production of a classic novel by Gaston Leroux, music by Andrew Lloyd Weber and an unbelievable theater, what can you say but double wow! The theater was specially designed and built for this presentation at the Venetian Hotel.

This was the Phantom's 501st performance and starred Brent Barrett as the "Phantom," Kristi Holden as "Christine" and Elena Jeanne Batman as "Carlotta." I was fortunate enough to see an original presentation (full length with intermission) once in Los Angeles, and I thought it was fabulous. But, to be honest with you, this presentation, which runs 95-minutes, is fantastic - there is no intermission and you will never believe it's not the full version. Webber, director Hal Prince and others from the show's original creative team, joined forces and came up with this magnificent version.

The custom-built theater has an awful lot to do with the entire scheme of things. The sound is majestic and with beautiful voices they flow through Paris Opera House, where the Phantom presides over the cast. One thing is for sure, I am so glad I wasn't sitting in the center section of the theatre, where a beautiful chandelier hangs. For, if you are, when that thing looks like its going to crash on you, one must believe it's all over. Of course it never does really crash, but it is a scary moment.

The condensed presentation, which includes every song from the original, is double-cast in the roles of "The Phantom," "Christine" and "Carlotta" due to the challenging vocal score and schedule. Alternating with Barrett is Anthony Crivello, while Elizabeth Loyacano steps in for Holden and Geena Jeffries plays the part of "Carlotta" with Batman.

Phantom at the Venetian is produced by The Really Useful Theatre Company Inc., and BASE entertainment. It is definitely a musical / play / opera that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. And the play is suitable for older children and especially teens. I would suggest that anyone under 12 not attend. The Phantom, named No. 1 Show of the Year by the Las Vegas Review Journal, is dark Sunday. The schedule is Monday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. and Tuesday - Friday at 7 p.m. For more information visit the official website: www.phantomlasvegas.com.

One of my favorite eateries (I love pizza) is Sammy's Woodfired Pizza, well-known for its award-winning gourmet pizza, salads and tapas, opened its third valley location in Centennial Hills this week. And another double wow for this one.

The new restaurant is located in the northwest part of the valley at 7160 North Durango, inside the Montecito Marketplace at 215 and North Durango. With 3,500 square feet, a seating capacity of 170 and an upscale, casual design, the new location will continue the Sammy's tradition of a fresh and extensive menu with moderate prices.

"We are happy to be growing in the Las Vegas area, "Sam Ladeki, restaurant founder and proprietor, said as he greeted the media and VIPs. "Las Vegas is one of the premier cities in the country for quality restaurants and eclectic cuisine. I've enjoyed being involved with Las Vegas dining ever since my days at Caesars Palace more than 20 years ago."

There are more than 800 employees with the Ladeki Restaurant Group, which includes seven San Diego locations and three in Nevada.

THIS AND THAT QUICKLY: Former Supreme Mary Wilson will be poolside, in concert, at the Silverton Hotel & Casino, Saturday, July 14th. She is currently in the middle of an 11-night engagement at Feinsteins Regency Loews Room in New York. According to reports, she is wowing New York audiences. Showtime at the Silverton will be 8 p.m. with tickets priced at $25... Another reminder to make your reservations for Ms. Wilson, and my friend Sonny Turner - who will be appearing in the Suncoast Showroom July 6-8. The former lead singer for the Platters will have his Platters on stage with him. This is one of the first engagements where Turner is able to use the name of the Platters as it should be used... Just got news that Alexis Gershwin, niece of the famous composers George and Ira Gershwin will be at the Suncoast, doing "Gershwin Sings Gershwin" July 20-22. She'll be performing all those famous songs written by the Gershwin's including "Embraceable You" and "A Foggy Day."... Well, gang, I'm off for a few days in sunny California and its great beach at Dana Point.

I'm outa here!

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