The big guy comes to the Golden Nugget this weekend. Tony Bennett, who has never left his heart in San Francisco but brings it with him wherever he goes, will swing forth with his very unique style for three nights: last night (Thursday) through Saturday evening at 9 pm.
Tony's had one of those careers only a few have, being on top of the heap, then downward until he was a Trivia Pursuit icon, then suddenly bursting back on the scene hot as ever. Tony's son is truly responsible for his father's resurrection, as he convinced him to be booked on MTV. Tony had nothing to lose, right? He was in his home doing nothing but screwing around with a few brushes, oil tubes and creating some very nice paintings. He was not broke either. So, he allowed his son to take over the career. Within months Bennett was out on tour, joining with a few rock groups, appearing on college campuses and traveling with a small rhythm section. But what happened within a year was amazing. He had his career back with his hardcore regulars (us older people) but now supplemented by the youth of today who were learning that there's more to music than rock. He's even won a few more awards, including a Grammy or two...
X The sad thing, however, is that he's all sold out this weekend. There's not a ticket to be had anywhere. And even if you know someone down at the Golden Nugget it wouldn't do you any good, believe me. But he'll be back. The legendary performer and 12-time Grammy winner has agreed to a one-year deal as spokesperson for the hotel. As the Nugget's "Ambassador of Cool," he will appear in a new advertising campaign, which will begin in January 2005. He'll also appear throughout the year, performing as only he can!
The Tropicana Hotel and the Tiffany Theatre was filled to the rafters the other day, Sunday to be precise, for the annual induction ceremonies of the Las Vegas Casino Legends Hall of Fame. This was very possibly one of the best ceremonies held in a long time, for a couple of the inductees didn't just say "Thanks" and walk off. They actually performed and how they "performed!" The stars making the Hall this year were Debbie Reynolds, Ben Vereen, Sheena Easton, Jack Jones, Patti Paige and Tempest Storm. Former inductee and current headliner at Harrah's on the Strip, Clint Holmes did a remarkable job of keeping the show rolling as emcee.
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Vereen, without a doubt was the absolute hit of the afternoon. Not only did he accept the honor (believe it or not a few who should be in the Hall will not even return a phone call or demand special treatment) but he performed. His medley, culminating with a very special salute to Sammy Davis, Jr., brought the audience to their feet. Some with tears in their eyes! Jones also performed, singing a duet with Holmes, "I Am A Singer," which again had the audience standing. And, when Ms. Paige sang "How Much is that Doggie in the Window," well you can just imagine what the reaction was. It was truly a magical afternoon. Steve Cutler, who owns and operates the Hall of Fame inside the hotel, puts in some long days, along with the entire Public Relations staff, headed up by Lisa Keim to make the show run as smooth as it does. And should you be lucky enough to be invited (as that's the only way you get a ticket) you never go home disappointed.
The Annual Night of a Thousand Stars will be held tonight (Friday) inside the "V" Theatre at the Aladdin Hotel / Casino, beginning at 9 pm. The benefit's foundation helps to build and operate homeless shelters for battered and abused teenage mothers. Just a few of the many stars appearing during the night will be Clint Holmes, Ted Levy will be doing his famous Sammy Davis, Jr., tribute "Mr. Bojangles," Gordie Brown from the Golden Nugget, Robin Leach, Vince Neil and many others. For tickets or information call 791-1777. It's a great evening, believe me folks. For a $25 donation where else can you see this class of entertainment? No where!
THIS AND THAT QUICKLY: Matt Dusk, you may remember him from the Golden Nugget and the television show "The Casino" where he sorta gave our Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt a snub job, has opened a three week run at the Las Vegas Hilton and its Theatre. Last night was media night so you'll have my thoughts next week...
The Comedy Stop at the Tropicana has Butch Bradley (who appeared in the Rodney Dangerfield movie "Back by Midnight") headlining this coming week (Nov. 8-14) along with Joe Starr and Scott Bruce...
"Ba-Da-Bing" is doing great business at its new home inside the Stardust Hotel. It's a great interactive dinner musical show and has been a welcomed addition to the hotel's entertainment schedule...
Speaking of the Tropicana; one of the Honest-to-God Legends will be doing a very special one-night engagement in the Tiffany Theatre. On Saturday, Nov. 13th Bob Newhart will step on stage at 7:30 pm. and the rest will be history. Tickets are only $49 plus tax...
For all you Mama Mia fans that was Michael Piontek singing the National Anthem last Sunday during the NHRA finals at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway...
Monti Rock III, the guy who you either hate or like (I personally like him) has inked a deal (he also writes a column) to go on a "Motown & Oldies Forever" for a 40 State tour, taking him away from our village for about three months. Monti will be the master of ceremonies and will perform one or two of his own hits...
"Hail, Hail Rock'n Roll" has returned to the Las Vegas Strip and Riviera Hotel inside the Le Bistro Showroom with shows at 10:00 pm., Tuesday through Sunday...
And speaking of the Riviera, a new art gallery has opened there called "Global Art Gallery." A long-time personal friend of this writer is managing the gallery, Tera Mitchell. Stop by and say hello...
Well, gang, that's it for another week. I'm outa here!
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