Tag: Las Vegas

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Las Vegas: New Production Of “Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding”

It’s hard to believe that after all my years living in New York City, I somehow never saw Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding, the longest running Off-Broadway comedy in history.

The “environmental/immersive theatre” piece puts audience members in the middle of a traditional Italian-American wedding and reception.

Fortunately, the play has just opened in Las Vegas at Ballys Las Vegas performing at real-life Italian restaurant Buca di Beppo Fridays through Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

I definitely recommend checking out the new production – the interactive theater experience is absolutely hilarious.

Audience members are treated as guests at the wedding by the interactive, improvisational comedy cast which includes over-the-top stereotypes like the hunky/built new husband, the self-absorbed bride, the totally-not-gay gay brother of the bride, a drunk ex-boyfriend, a pregnant matron of honor and more.

With its original director Larry Pellegrini at the helm and an ensemble cast featuring Breon Jenay as Tina and Joseph Ben Shimon as Tony, the production incorporates today’s popular culture into the show’s repertoire.

In addition to the comedy, the cast’s terrific actor/singers serenade you with current and classic pop hits.

And yes, you are at a wedding reception, so included in the ticket price is full on Italian dinner with Caesar Salad, Chicken Parmesan, Bake Ziti, Wedding Cake and Drinks. And if you buy the VIP package ($129), in addition to dinner, you also get a two-hour open bar and a post-show meet and greet. Whoo-hoo!

Check out pics from opening night below and you can get more info about the production here.

Tina’s gay-not-gay brother gets in on the act

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Perez Hilton Set As Chippendales’ Next ‘Celebrity Guest Host’

 
Social media influencer Perez Hilton joins Chippendales as Celebrity Guest Host

Get ready to “Party with Perez” this summer when Perez Hilton, the original celebrity social media influencer, joins the world famous Chippendales as their special guest host at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Hilton will begin his six week run July 26 through Sept. 2, 2018 (Thursday through Sunday performances).

No stranger to the stage, Hilton will combine his comedic wit and outrageous sense of humor to guide the audience through a wild evening celebrating the hottest men, music and moves in Las Vegas.

Audience members can rest assured, what happens at Chippendales still stays at Chippendales!

“Perez is a big, bold personality and we’re expecting him to bring just that to the show”, commented Kevin Denberg, Chippendales Managing Partner. “There’s no holds barred here… expect Perez to say what’s on his mind, or what’s on yours, as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, bringing even more fun and humor to the Chippendales party experience.”

“I am a big fan of Chippendales and I am so excited to be a special guest host unlike any other they’ve ever had before,” says Hilton. “I am looking forward to taking my role as your gay best friend into the real world and helping the women (and men) who come to the show have THE BEST TIME possible!”

“It’s going to be super fun for them and for me – and that’s why I’m truly ecstatic to do it! I’ve seen the show multiple times and can’t wait to be a part of it from start to finish! It’s going to be magical!”

Jon Howes of The Chippendales

Perez is the latest celebrity to join the exclusive roster of guest hosts at Chippendales. From international supermodel Tyson Beckford to Beverly Hills 90210/Sharknado star Ian Ziering to Dancing with the Stars mirror ball champion Tony Dovolani and Nyle DiMarco (double champ for America’s Next Top Model and Dancing with the Stars).

Every celebrity guest who’s ever donned the brand’s iconic cuffs and collar has brought his own unique style and energy to sold-out audiences.

Consistently named the “Best Male Revue” in Las Vegas by the prestigious Best of Las Vegas! Awards, Chippendales features heart thumping choreography and multiple opportunities for audience members to get on stage in an all-out party that provides the perfect backdrop for a night out in Las Vegas.

And yes – men are always welcome at Chippendales.

But the big question is – will Perez go “the full Monty?”

Check out Perez’s announcement video below.

And since we’re here, let’s trip the light fantastic with past Chipp celeb hosts Tyson Beckford, Nyle DiMarco and the Chippendales.

A post shared by Chippendales® (@chippendales) on Jul 22, 2017 at 9:54pm PDT

A post shared by Chippendales® (@chippendales) on May 5, 2018 at 11:46am PDT

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New Tourism Ad Promotes Las Vegas As Same-Sex Wedding Hotspot

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority has released a new ad promoting Sin City as “the place” for LGBTs to get married.

The spot is one of four videos encouraging folks to “find your Vegas moment.”

“In Vegas, the improbable doesn’t just exist in your imagination – it flourishes around every corner. You just have to keep your eyes (and your mind) open, as a young couple in love is about to find out. When you’re free to be yourself, anything can happen.”

Visit Las Vegas wants travelers to know, “You have permission to be whoever you want to be in Las Vegas.”

John Tanzella, CEO and president of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, praised the ad as “a perfect example of the inclusive environment that awaits all travelers in the destination.”

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that Nevada has issued more marriage licenses to same-sex couples than any other state.

In addition to a welcoming environment for weddings, Nevada is one of only 20 states that have comprehensive LGBT protections in place statewide.

Watch the spot below.

(h/t NewNowNext)

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Get Your Airline Tickets – Someone Is About To Attempt The World’s Biggest Orgy

So, who’s up for breaking the record for the world’s biggest orgy?

An organization called Menage Life has sent out a clarion call for folks to come take part of what they hope to be a record-breaking event in Las Vegas on June 2.

The goal is to get 1,000 folks to check in and put the sin in Sin City. The previous record was in Japan with a paltry 500 people in 2007.

According to Las Vegas Weekly, participants will have to pay to play.

Players must purchase an appropriate Sin City 8 pass (for the orgy, couples are $200 and single women are $25) and arrive with a registered partner (no single men are allowed) and photo ID before getting down.

And mutual consent will be strictly enforced by onlooking security officers “who are members of the lifestyle,” according to the website. Those making advances without permission or failing to heed the word “no” will be removed from the premises.

Participants will also receive free condoms, lubricants, towels, hand sanitizer and other sex complements, with event organizers promising a clean space with clearly marked and separate receptacles for waste and linen disposal.

Menage Life will also distribute masquerade party-style masks for those requiring discretion, setting the stage for a giant, Eyes Wide Shut-like fantasia.

Now, gay couples aren’t mentioned in the info, so maybe you and the bf go check in as a couple.

Or, find a gal pal to attend with you. I have a feeling if the men attending are all swingers, someone is going to have an itch you can scratch.

Anyway, if groups – and I mean BIG groups – are your thing… check it out.

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Las Vegas: Queen + Adam Lambert Announce Royal Residency “The Crown Jewels”

Adam Lambert will join legendary rock band Queen for a 10 concert residency in Las Vegas in September 2018
(image via Instagram)

Iconic British rockers Queen and out frontman Adam Lambert have announced the band’s first Sin City residency, titled The Crown Jewels, at Park Theater at Park MGM, in September 2018.

The band first shared the news with the Twitterverse Monday morning on social media:

The royal rockers will hold court in the City of Entertainment for 10 performances from September 1 – 22 (September 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 14, 15, 19, 21 and 22 at 8PM).

Members of both Queen and Adam Lambert’s Fan Clubs will be able to purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, May 8 at 10AM PT. QueenOnline.com subscribers will be sent pre-sale links and passwords.

Tickets on sale to the public Friday, May 11 at 10AM PT at www.ticketmaster.com (link not live until Friday).

You can be sure to expect thunderbolts and lightning, disco balls and all the massive Queen hits including “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Fat Bottomed Girls,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “Somebody To Love,” “Radio Ga Ga” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

The musical alchemy between Lambert and Queen has been a magical ride since first sharing a stage for the American Idol finale in May 2009. Years later now, with 150 shows in their pocket, the potent power players are filling stadiums and festivals with an awe-inspiring show drawing across-the-board rave reviews.

When Queen and Lambert debuted the show last year, Billboard Magazine raved called the production, “a seamlessly executed Vegas assault — a just-right balance of kitsch, classic rock and ‘70s excess. It’s all there; the bombast, melodrama, the drum solos, the glitter, the great songs, a crazy light show, big power chords.”

More from the press:

“A master class in design, lighting and supreme musicianship. Long may Lambert and the Queen of now reign.” – News Corp Australia Network

“With fantastic players, a dazzling stage design, an almost unparalleled catalogue of classic songs, and an outstanding frontman, Queen still offer one of the most entertaining nights of rock and roll to be seen and heard anywhere.” – Daily Telegraph

Announcing this specially-crafted “The Crown Jewels” show, Queen’s Brian May said: “We’re ready to take on the ultimate challenge … to dazzle Vegas!!”

Band mate Roger Taylor concurred saying, “Looking forward to rocking the Strip,” singing the praises of “the audaciously and phenomenally talented Adam Lambert.”

Lambert gushed back: “I’m so excited to help share ‘The Crown Jewels’ with the Strip. You’ll be humming them all night!”

Check out Queen + Adam Lambert below rocking “Somebody To Love” during an appearance on X-Factor in 2014.

Lambert recently teamed up with out rocker Melissa Etheridge on her hit power-ballad, “I’m the Only One,” at this year’s GLAAD Media Awards:

A post shared by ADAMLAMBERT (@adamlambert) on May 6, 2018 at 12:10pm PDT

Here’s some snaps of Lambert on tour with the legends themselves, Queen:

A post shared by ADAMLAMBERT (@adamlambert) on Dec 4, 2017 at 5:28am PST

A post shared by ADAMLAMBERT (@adamlambert) on Mar 6, 2018 at 11:49pm PST

A post shared by ADAMLAMBERT (@adamlambert) on Dec 16, 2017 at 3:07am PST

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Mariah Carey Announces New Las Vegas Residency “The Butterfly Returns”

Well, that was quick.

Pop superstar Mariah Carey just ended her Mariah #1 to Infinity run in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace last year, but is already back with a new show titled, The Butterfly Returns.

The 48-year-old diva will premiere the new production beginning July 5 with performances through September 10.

“I’m thrilled to be returning to The Colosseum at Caesars Palace? with a BRAND NEW residency, THE BUTTERFLY RETURNS, beginning July 5th! Fan Club presale starts Tuesday 5/1 before the public on sale this Friday at 10am PT! For tickets & all dates visit mariahcarey.com/tour! #thebutterflyreturns,” Mariah shared via Instagram.

Dates and ticket info on her official website here.

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Vegas Golden Knights Announce Events For “Hockey Is For Everyone Month” Including LGBT Night

Pierre Edouard Bellemare of the Vegas Golden Knights

In celebration of Hockey Is For Everyone Month, the Vegas Golden Knights have announced a series of programs and events throughout the month of February, including an LGBT night on February 15.

The Golden Knights join the NHL in supporting an inclusive environment for all fans and players regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status.

Via press release:

Hockey Is For Everyone Month is a league-wide initiative to foster a safe and inclusive environment in the game of hockey regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation or socio-economic status.

Pierre-Edouard Bellemare will serve as the Golden Knights player ambassador throughout the month.

In support of Hockey Is For Everyone Month, the Golden Knights will host Hailey Dawson for a ceremonial puck drop at the Golden Knights vs. Philadelphia Flyers game at 5 p.m. PT on February 11. Dawson has a 3-D printed robotic hand that enables her to grab, throw and grasp, and she previously has thrown out multiple pitches at Major League Baseball games. Dawson had a special Vegas Golden Knights hand created by the UNLV School of Engineering to drop the puck.

On February 15, the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada, or “The Center,” will attend the Golden Knights vs. Edmonton Oilers game at 7 p.m. PT, and a special PSA from Bellemare will be played in-arena. Pride t-shirts will be available for sale, and proceeds from the Vegas Golden Knights 51/49 raffle that night will benefit The Center.

Clients of Opportunity Village, who work with men and women of all levels of disabilities, will attend the Golden Knights vs. Calgary Flames game at 7:30 p.m. PT on February 21 and stand alongside the players on the bench for the national anthem. In addition, clients will attend the Golden Knights practice on February 17 and have the opportunity to skate on the ice afterward.

Players will also be able to use rainbow tape on their sticks for warm-ups February 21 to later be auctioned off, with all proceeds benefiting the You Can Play Project in support of LGBTQ athletes.

By the way, did I mention the Golden Knight have already broken the record for most wins (34 so far) by an NHL team in its inaugural season?

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Lady Gaga Announces Las Vegas Residency At The Park Theater In The Monte Carlo

Little Monsters – get ready to book your tickets for Sin City!

Lady Gaga will become the next pop diva to have a residency in Las Vegas.

According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Gaga is signing a 36 show deal to perform at The Park Theater at the Monte Carlo.

Expected to premiere in late 2018, Gaga is rumored to be paid an estimated $400,000 per show.

Since opening in late 2016, the 6,300 seat Park Theater has hosted superstar artists such as Bruno Mars, Cher, and Ricky Martin.

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Las Vegas: Father Shoots & Kills 14-Year-Old Son For Being Gay

Giovanni Melton

Wendell Melton of Las Vegas Nevada was arrested for the shooting murder of his 14-year-old son Giovanni Melton after they had an argument about Giovanni’s sexual orientation.

According to NBC 3 News Wendell, 53, shot and killed the teenager after the dispute last Thursday.

Giovanni’s former foster mother, Sonja Jones, said the father once caught Giovanni with his boyfriend and became enraged.

“He hated the fact that his son was gay,” Jones added. “I’m sure that inside of his mind, he would rather have a dead son than a gay son.”

“Giovanni was abused physically and mentally and spiritually for many, many years,” she added.

“I hope they throw the book at him. I hope he never sees the light of day,” said Jones. “I hope every day when he looks in the mirror, he sees his son’s face.”

According to court records, Giovanni’s mother had abandoned her children after a long custody battle.

Giovanni lived with his older brother alone in a condo complex.

Wendell had served in the military and recently worked for United Airlines. He had already faced allegations of abusing his sons and faced charges involving illegal firearms.

He has been charged with murder, child abuse, and prohibited person possessing a firearm.

Jones has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help Giovanni’s older brother pay for funeral expenses.

Wendell Melton