Entertainment Tidbits  

ENTERTAINMENT TIDBITS

by Z.Z. Zorn

Aria's Gingerbread House

ARIA Resort & Casino is making the holiday season sweet with a custom-made, life-size gingerbread house. The Gingerbread House is a colossal 15 feet tall, seven feet wide, 12 feet deep and is made of edible ingredients.

ARIA Executive Pastry Chef Mathieu Lavallee and his highly-talented team spent over three weeks constructing the masterpiece, showcasing their skills in the details with peppermint tiles, giant sugar bears, gingerbread bricks and more.

ARIA’s Gingerbread House festive creation required more than 400 pounds of gingerbread, 64,000 peppermints, 200 pounds of royal icing, 80 pounds of chocolate and over a thousand pounds of candy. The towering structure is covered in 900 gingerbread bricks while the roof is layered with 960 peppermint tiles.

The Gingerbread House is on display now thru January 6 in ARIA’s main lobby.

Tournament of Kings at Excalibur

“Tournament of Kings: 'Twas the Knight ” makes its return to Excalibur Hotel & Casino November 20 – December 31, continuing the popular holiday tradition. “The Tournament of Kings holiday show has become a tradition for many during this festive time of year, The Tournament of Kings Arena magically transforms into a winter wonderland, guaranteeing all a ‘holly jolly’ time during this limited engagement.

King Arthur cordially invites all to joust in the medieval merriment of his kingdom while cheering on their country’s hero in an epic battle for honor. Audiences will witness the magical Merlin summon snowfall on the Kingdom while listening to holiday-inspired music, poems and songs performed by the cast. “Tournament of Kings: ‘Twas the Knight” will feature magnificently designed holiday costumes, majestic banners, flags and a castle light illuminating the spirit of the festive season. The vignettes created for the show include a specially choreographed ribbon dance and a skilled rider upon an Andalusian stallion.
Guests will indulge in a three-course feast which, true to the time of Merlin, will be eaten sans utensils. The festive meal includes a rich Dragon’s Blood (tomato) Soup, fresh Cornish Game Hen, tasty baked jeweled yams, freshly roasted broccoli trees, Maple Whole Wheat Biscuit and a decadent apple strudel.

Performance Schedule: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday and Friday at 5:30 p.m.

Alternative show dates are as follows: Friday, Nov. 29: 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 & Wednesday, Dec. 11: 5:30 p.m. only Tuesday, Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve): 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31 (New Year’s Eve): 5:30 p.m. Price: Tickets are now on sale and start at $75.38

Nevada residents (with a valid I.D.) receive a $10 discount on admission. Children three years of age and younger are complimentary while sitting on an adult’s lap.

Well my dear readers, if you haven’t seen the great shows Friends! The Musical Parody, Marriage Can Be Murder (decorated and a new murderous plot for the holidays), Comedy Magician Adam London’s Laughternoon, at The D Las Vegas, you only have until January 5 to see them there.

All shows at The D will close by January 5 due to a major redesign and expansion of the D’s second floor that will be constructed. I’m sure these shows will find another home and when that happens, I will let my readers know.

Terry Fator A Very Terry Christmas 2, the sequel

Terry Fator and his amazing cast are performing A Very Terry Christmas 2, The Sequel at The Mirage. This year’s updated show is adding new characters, new comedy, new songs and a new theme as Fator and cast of stars celebrate the holidays with comedy, singing, celebrity impersonations and ventriloquism. A Very Terry Christmas 2, The Sequel features Christmas classics, original comedic songs and a quick lesson about “Juana,” a holiday guaranteed to make the audience laugh.
In addition to Terry Fator himself, A Very Terry Christmas 2, The Sequel, features an all-star cast with pre-show entertainer Ben Harris. and Terry’s most lovable characters: Winston, the Impersonating Turtle, Vikki “The Cougar,” country legend Walter T. Airdale, Duggie Scott Walker, Emma Taylor, the world’s greatest Elvis impersonator Maynard Tompkins, Fernando V Francisco, “Elton John,” “Willie Nelson,” “Justin Bieber,” “Dolly Parton,” “Dean Martin,” “Frank Sinatra,” “Sammy Davis Jr.,” “Ozzy Osbourne,” “Stevie Wonder” and “David Bowie.”
Monday – Thursday; select Friday and Saturday shows Friday, Nov. 29 through Monday, Dec. 30 - 7:30 p.m. (A special 9 p.m. performance will take place Monday, Dec. 16)

Anita Hill

Anita Hill, the attorney, professor and advocate for gender and racial equality who, in the early 1990s, helped further America’s understanding of sexual harassment, came to my alumni California State University Northridge (CSUN) to talk to hundreds of students about what has changed — and said much has not. Hill, who gave historic testimony during the 1991 confirmation process of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, is now the wake of the #MeToo movement. Hill’s said the #MeToo movement was a time of hope and recognition.

When Hill walked onto the Northridge Center stage at the University Student Union to deliver the annual Associated Students Big Lecture, she received a standing ovation and thunderous applause. Hill’s testimony before the U.S. Senate in 1991 changed the course of American history and shined a light on the long-festering issue of sexual harassment.

	Carlos Santana (MUSIC VAN)

Carlos Santana partnered with the Philharmonic’s MUSIC VAN program to provide students with an introduction to African instruments. Students had the opportunity to participate in a drum circle with Carlos Santana and the Philharmonic’s Music Director Donato Cabrera. Since it began in September of 2018, the MUSIC VAN has brought interactive instrument demonstrations, global music presentations, and chamber music performances to over 6,000 students from 65 school sites as well as over 150 seniors from several senior communities throughout Clark County.

Cris Angel

As a continuation to the overwhelming success of his all-new hit show Criss Angel MINDFREAK at Planet Hollywood, Criss Angel has made the Criss Angel Theater Lobby Experience FREE to the public seven days a week. As Las Vegas’ first high-tech experiential lobby, guests are transported into Angel’s imagination from the moment they enter.

The immersive space offers an exclusive look into Angel’s life, both on and off stage. Fans can revisit some of the illusionist’s favorite moments including daring stunts from his hit television series “MINDFREAK,” footage of Paul Stanley painting a portrait of Angel displayed in the lobby called “Split Face” and colorful commentary from a few of Angel’s A-list friends (including Gary Oldman, Randy Couture and more) on the talking photo wall. Additionally, visitors can pose for photos in front of a moving LED backdrop with Angel’s iconic levitation and his famed multi-million-dollar custom motorcycle collection, showcased throughout Planet Hollywood. Also on display are Angel’s many accolades.

Located on the mezzanine level of Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, the Criss Angel Theater Lobby is now open from 2:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. On show nights. ticketed guests can enjoy the Lobby until 9 p.m. The Criss Angel Magic & Merch store inside The Criss Angel Theater lobby is open from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. on show nights only.

The Criss Angel MINDFREAK residency show performs in the Criss Angel Theater Wednesday – Sunday at 7 p.m. To purchase tickets for the MINDFREAK show visit CrissAngel.com or the Criss Angel Theater box office or by calling (855) 234-7469.

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party is bringing guests closer to the magic than ever before through dynamic and immersive moments that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats. This participatory adventure delivering compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers visits Las Vegas from Thursday, January 9 to Sunday, January 12, 2020 for seven performances at Thomas & Mack Center. Tickets are on sale now. Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney and Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice for onlookers seated above and below. Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men and the audience for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka. And make memories with your whole family during Aladdin and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration.
Join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience. Tickets for Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party start at $15 plus tax and fees. All seats are reserved, and tickets are available online at UNLVtickets.com, charge by phone at 702-739-FANS, in- person at the Thomas & Mack Center box office.

The Smith Center strives to make the performing arts accessible to all Southern Nevadans, and to offer an inclusive environment for all who wish to visit. In this spirit, we announce The Smith Center’s sensory-friendly performance of the Broadway Las Vegas show, "Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas," on Saturday, November 30 at 11:00 a.m (85 minutes, no intermission). Sensory-friendly performances are intended for audience members with autism spectrum disorders and other intellectual or developmental disabilities. The goal is to create a welcoming environment for families and friends to enjoy this memorable show together in a judgement-free atmosphere. To help celebrate this event, Cashman Photo has generously offered one complimentary photo (digital download only) per family or group at this performance.
This performance will include adjustments to the show’s sound and lighting to create a more ambient environment with less sensory stimulation, yet it is a full-length production, which runs approximately 85 minutes with no intermission. Tickets for this performance are specially priced to make the experience more accessible.

	Linda Smith "Unwanted"	Linda Smith

Linda Smith, author, public speaker, fundraising consultant and disability advocate, has been honored as a Finalist in the 2019 Independent Author Network (IAN) Book of the Year Awards, for her debut memoir “Unwanted: How a Mother Learned to Turn Shame, Grief, and Fear into Purpose, Passion, and Empowerment.” “Unwanted” chronicles her life as a childhood abuse survivor and mother of a disabled son who became a fundraising icon and a relentless advocate for people with disabilities. Linda Smith draws upon her professional and personal experience as a storyteller, writer, motivational speaker and disability advocate. Since the birth of her son, Christopher, Smith has dedicated her life to be the voice of advocacy for people with disabilities. In March 2019, Smith became a published author with the release of her memoir “Unwanted.”

The Mirage will welcome a new fast casual restaurant concept to the resort’s culinary portfolio in Spring 2020. The new venue will replace Carnegie Deli, which will close in February.

The STRAT Hotel & Casino has a new REMIX Lounge located on the main casino floor. The stylish lounge serves up signature cocktails, as well as hosts live music with bands performing 80s and 90s favorites, every weekend.

The REMIX stage will showcase high-energy bands from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. every Friday and Saturday night. A spacious dance floor offers plenty of room for dancing.

The stage also quickly converts into an HDTV projection screen with high-resolution video from a 12,000-lumen projector, making it ideal for taking in football games. Free valet and self-parking always available.

PT’s Taverns, with 64 locations throughout the Las Vegas Valley, will host a toy drive to collect donations to gift local children from now until Tuesday, Dec. 10.
All PT’s Taverns throughout the valley will act as locations for locals to drop-off and donate new bikes, toys and monetary donations. PT’s Taverns take part annually in the holiday giving initiative and in 2018, donated $12,000 and over 500 bikes to HELP of Southern Nevada to distribute to local children in need.

For a limited time, PT’s happy hour will be extended throughout December. Starting Sunday, Dec. 1 and available daily at all locations from 5 to 8 p.m. and midnight to 2 a.m., PT’s Happy Hour offers discounts on food and beverages.

Luxor Hotel and Casino hosted the world premiere of the Strip’s newest production, R.U.N – the first live-action thriller produced by Cirque du Soleil. The new show is a living, breathing graphic novel that’s non-stop tire-peeling, fist-flinging and double-crossing action including combat stunts, fast-paced car chases, cutting-edge technology and innovative multimedia. Audience members were greeted with immersive sensory experiences throughout the evening, starting from the moment they entered the lobby. The gritty, graphic novel-inspired production showcased human performance and special effects from chapter to chapter, as told by brave and fearless characters.

At the premiere those in attendance included Tyler Bates, creator of the show’s soundtrack and composer of “Atomic Blonde,” “John Wick” and former lead guitarist of Marilyn Manson; along with Robert Rodriguez, director of “Sin City” and “From Dusk Till Dawn,” who crafted the script, and the show’s director, Michael Schwandt, creator of Fox’s hit show “The Masked Singer.”

In addition to many others attendees were Blue Man Group, resident headliners at Luxor; and FANTASY, cast of the headlining show at Luxor.

R.U.N performs in the R.U.N Theater at Luxor Wednesday through Sunday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

The+Source, with dispensaries at 9480 S. Eastern Blvd. in Henderson and 2550 S. Rainbow Blvd. in Las Vegas, will celebrate National Chocolate Brownie Day with a sweet special on infused brownies on Sunday, Dec. 8.

Both locations of the popular dispensary will offer 100 mg Qualcan brownie bites, each infused with 10 mg of THC from natural CO2 distillate, priced at $24. The+Source will also offer $5 Korova triple chocolate brownie edibles from throughout the day. The 1:1 infused brownie is overloaded with decadent chocolate and includes 10 mg of THC and 10 mg of CBD.

Boyd Gaming has announced the 35 nonprofits selected to participate in "Trees of Hope" this year! The nonprofits will decorate their trees at seven participating Boyd Gaming properties for a chance to win a prize pool of more than $45,000. Boyd Gaming sites are The Orleans, Gold Coast, Suncoast, Sam's Town, Fremont Hotel & Casino, Main Street Station Casino, California Hotel & Casino, and Jokers Wild.

Now through Dec. 15, the Las Vegas community is invited to visit each property and vote for their favorite decorated tree.

FANTASY, award-winning adult revue at The Luxor, will welcome Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) back to Las Vegas with discounted tickets for NFR attendees from December 5 – 14.

FANTASY will offer a 50 percent discount on all tickets for guests who show their 2019 NFR tickets upon purchase at any Luxor box office. Following the show, all guests are invited to mix and mingle with the cast of FANTASY at a meet-and-greet, with the opportunity for autographs and photos.

The ever popular and always wonderful Nevada Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker is at Reynold’s Hall at The Smith Center. Performances are:
Friday, Dec. 13, 2019 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019 at 2 PM and 7:30 PM, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019 at 1 PM and 5:30 PM, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2019 at 7:30 PM, Friday, Dec. 20, 2019 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019 at 2 PM and 7:30 PM, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019 at 1 PM and 5:30 PM, Monday, Dec. 23, 2019 at 2 PM and Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019 at 2 PM.

Choreographed by James Canfield, NBT’s The Nutcracker is a magical journey through a larger than life world filled with waltzing flowers, nimble fairies, and moonlit snow. Glittering holiday cheer abounds as Clara and her handsome Prince travel from the warmth of her family home to a land of toy soldiers, mischievous rodents and exotic visitors from faraway lands.

Cabaret Jazz at the Smith Center will also have some great shows.

Tyriq Johnson Presents A Taste of Christmas Monday, Dec. 16 at 7 PM
Michelle Johnson’s Vintage Christmas Sunday, Dec. 22 at 3 PM
Escape to Margaritaville Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020 at 7:30 PM, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2020 at 7:30 PM, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020 at 7:30 PM, Friday, Jan. 10, 2020 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, Jan. 11, at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, Sunday, Jan. 12, at 2:00 PM and 7:30.
An Evening with Megan Hilty Friday, Jan. 17 and Saturday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m.

Ellis Island Casino Hotel & Brewery, a veritable Vegas landmark for more than 50 years, is announcing the highly-anticipated opening of The Front Yard, the property’s new beer garden, restaurant and entertainment venue Friday, Dec. 6. Situated along Koval Lane, the two- story venue offers a casual brewpub atmosphere with a premium bar and full- service restaurant showcasing Ellis family favorite recipes and dishes incorporating craft beers from its own Ellis Island Brewery. The Front Yard will also feature a variety of brews straight from Ellis Island Brewery to the tap, serving fresh beers that rotate seasonally.
The indoor/outdoor venue features a second-floor atrium with unobstructed views of the Las Vegas Strip. Retractable ceiling shades, expansive windows, rich wood fixtures, exposed steel, low lighting, and Instagram-worthy garden walls present a lush outdoor atmosphere. The Front Yard offers great vantage points from either floor to watch the game on any of the HD TVs including the 18-foot big screen. Guests will also enjoy the live entertainment featured weekly, ranging from DJs and local acts to headliners and special events including New Year’s Eve, the Big Game and more.

Glittering Lights

Glittering Lights is now in its 19th season. You can enjoy Glittering Lights the holiday drive-thru light show starting at dusk every night through January 5. Glittering Lights is the drive-thru holiday spectacular of 2.5 miles of over 3 million dazzling lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Continuing its 19-year tradition as southern Nevada’s premiere drive-thru light show, Glittering Lights hosts different initiatives to support local charities, churches and schools when people drive through millions of twinkling lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.