Vegas Magic for the Family

One thing you may or may not have noticed about Vegas is that shows are more often than not, not made for family viewings. In fact, many of the most popular shows are decidedly not appropriate for children and younger audiences. Vegas has often become synonymous with sin or at the very least sex. While that is something that most definitely draws the box office dollars it is not something that makes watching shows in Vegas easy if you have children. Magic shows, however are usually a fairly safe bet from great entertainment and less adult oriented content.
One thing that is certain about children and shows though is that most children not only love magic, they also find it utterly and completely fascinating. David Copperfield is one of the most recognized names when it comes to magic and illusion. Your children will be delighted from the first act through the end of the show. This is one show that you won't have to worry about sending negative messages to your children nor will you have to worry about being bored for the sake of your children with this show either. His show may ultimately be the start of something magical in your own children, you never know. Check with the MGM Grand for show nights and times as this show plays two weeks every month but those weeks vary.

For a little more Xtreme Magic you should check out Dirk Arthur's show at Tropicana.  This show has no age restrictions and the costs are $29 for table seating and $34 for booth seats this show has all kinds of wildlife from beautiful women, lavish dancers, Bengal tigers, a white tiger, and leopards. This show is a very exciting show that displays the art of illusion in a rather extreme form (kind of like extreme sports, this is extreme magic). Show times are 2 and 4 pm Saturday through Thursday.

For a little more magic, the Rick Thomas show at the Stardust Hotel has a little bit of magic for everyone. From the exquisitely choreographed moves and the help of a few showgirl type dancers he has created one of the best daytime shows in Vegas. Not only is Rick Thomas an excellent magician and illusionist he is also an extremely talented showman. And anything that can keep the rapt attention of little ones (in addition to their quiet) is a really good thing while on vacation. You can catch his show Thursday through Tuesday at 2 and 4 pm in the Wayne Newton Theatre of the Stardust Hotel.

While these shows are hardly inclusive of every magic act playing in Vegas these acts are very much the ones worth mentioning. If you haven't seen any of these guys perform you really have no idea what you've been missing. David Copperfield is truly the Master but he very well may have some serious competition along the horizon.

Magic is one of those things that the child in all of us never really manages to outgrow. We see it in brief moments when we hold our children for the first time, when we see their eyes light up on Christmas, when we feel the beauty and perfection of one perfect snowflake. Magic is all around us and so easily missed, there is nothing quite like visiting one of these shows to remind us not only of the magic we're missing each and every day as well as the wonder that we left behind somewhere in our own childhoods.

Vegas Shows are Big Draw for Tourists

Other than gambling, one of the first things that many people think of when they think of Vegas are the many shows that are available to watch. Vegas rakes in a fortune each year off the shows that are offered each and every night. There are major headliners and limited appearances that make the shows the wonderful draws for tourists and locals alike to spend a night out on the town and the shows, dinner, and ultimately the casinos.

The goal in almost every effort put forth by the casino parent companies is to get more bodies in the casinos. The more warm bodies that are warming the seats the more money that is filling the coffers. The casinos like to bring in the money and they are willing to spend a little in order to make a lot. The acts that are highlights in this city are well established for the most part and enjoy their celebrity, their fame, and most often for the headliners, the fact that there is some sort of permanence to their existences and they are not required to travel and spend countless hours on the road away from their families and loved ones.

You will find the ultra famous rubbing elbows with those who are barely known and occasionally some impersonators. In Vegas and most of them are only too happy to be living the life they've chosen in this great city of lights. If you have the opportunity to check out one of the many shows in Vegas I believe you will find that these shows are amazingly well put together and quite entertaining. This isn't your small town little theatre or your community college stage. These shows are professionally done and in business to make money-and make money they do.

The shows bring in clients from all walks of life and financial backgrounds you will find the rich and famous sitting next to the middle class in the audience and all will be either laughing, crying, or cringing together. The shows are designed to elicit different responses from the audiences and to appeal to a wide cross section of the population.

If you are in the market for a Vegas show it is recommended that you book around the time or at the same time you book your hotel reservations in order to be sure you can get the tickets. Many of these shows sell out months in advance and for months at a time. The more popular the show the bigger price the tickets will demand and the bigger following the shows will have.

I also encourage you to take advantage of some of the free opportunities and events within the casinos where the shows you are planning to see occur in order to get an idea of the lay of the land before the time your show is scheduled to start. You should probably be early for the shows you wish to see and plan to stand in line a little while.

While shows are one of the biggest draws for people to visit Las Vegas and some people plan their entire trips just for the sake of catching one show, keep in mind that there are plenty more things to do in Vegas than simply watching a show or two. Take advantage of the many opportunities for entertainment that await you during your Vegas vacation.

are my ten tips for the Vegas virgin

1) If you’re going to gamble, do it responsibly
It’s the most obvious thing to say, that you’re surrounded by the opportunity to gamble. I didn’t realise it would start immediately at the arrivals gate at the airport, but you’re probably never further than a few feet from a fruit machine in Vegas. Unless you’re a staunch anti-gambler, it can be very much part of the experience. My tactic? Change up a set amount of chips, and already consider them lost – a one-off payment to sit at a table, play cards and have a drink for a while. If you leave with anything, that way it’s a bonus. Keep to your limit, and don’t get your head turned by the bells and whistles.

2) See at least one show
You name it, you can see it on stage in Las Vegas, from magicians and hypnotists to burlesque and probably a few things to make your great aunt’s glasses steam up. However, the big shows at major resorts are there as world-class productions, and they are generally done on an astounding scale.
I plumped for the Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Love’ show at The Mirage. Beforehand, I wasn’t set to be impressed by either people on a trapeze OR the music of The Beatles, but two hours later, I was almost weeping in my seat, such is the overwhelming intricacy and spectacle of this show. It was honestly one of the most impressive things I have ever seen.

3) Hit Fremont Street
The Strip as it stands is a fairly modern creation, and for a slice of old school Vegas, head for Fremont Street, a short taxi ride away. Here you can see the iconic neon signs of yesteryear, including legendary spots such as the Golden Nugget. It feels more gentle and less cynical, part of a simpler age, even though that age was run by notorious gangsters. There’s no trace of that now, and you can wallow in retro cool without fear of the Mafia.

4) Negotiate the streets
Vegas is not a pedestrian-friendly city, though additionally it’s hardly ever worth taking a cab between venues as The Strip isn’t that big. If your journey doesn’t let you take advantage of the mostly excellent tram system, look to use the over-ground walkways. Many of them cut through hotels, most of which are connected on some level, so you can snake through the crowds with relative ease. Just try to avoid street level, where the masses inch along narrow pavements, and you’re surrounded by touts flicking their business cards, most of which appear to be illustrated with scantily-clad women.

5) Take a trip out of town
Even on a short trip, I felt that taking a break from the noise, lights and omnipresent piped music was essential. The easiest, most adventurous and scenic excursion is probably to a nearby little hole in the ground called the Grand Canyon. Unless you want to spend hours in car, the way to go are the helicopter trips, which, because of the amount of local competition, are more affordable than they might otherwise be. Within a few minutes, you can be sweeping past some of the world’s most dramatic scenery, a genuine wonder, and some of the rides even set down and stop for lunch in the canyon itself. Thoroughly recommended and an experience that will stand out among the indoor pleasures that make up most of a Vegas trip.

6) Grand Canyon
When the neon lights get too much, retreat to the Grand Canyon and some of the world's most breathtaking scenery
Seek out independent experiences
Not everywhere in Vegas is an international corporation’s idea of fun. There are experiences out there that not everyone will have and are worth hunting around for if you don’t want to step onto the usual casino/buffet/show conveyor belt.
Oh, and they’re way cheaper. Fremont Street is actually where you’ll fond most of the independent businesses, and it feels somewhat authentic.

7) Eat like a king
Vegas traditionally had quite a shaky reputation for cuisine, all cheesy diners and low-rent buffets. Now, the culinary scene has swung quite the other way, and huge international names have moved in. Even multi-Michelin star restaurants have set up shop to lure those high rollers in, including Joel Robuchon, who has a branch of Atelier at the MGM Grand. There are incredible dining experiences to be had with slightly less chance of bankruptcy, though.
For a reasonable price, you can have a delicious meal, including such delicacies as Japanese River Crab or prime sashimi.

8) Consider the self-catering option
The above being noted, eating out all the time, or subjecting yourself to the gargantuan queues of the casino buffet system is not good for spiritual, financial or physical health. An alternative is to check into accommodation that lets you make your own meals. You don’t have to sacrifice designer décor, either. I stayed at The Signature at MGM Grand, attached to the hotel of the same name, but offering suite-type rooms with their own fridge and hob – perfect for eating healthily and on a budget. It’s back from The Strip, so there’s a sense of relative serenity, and other than that, it’s a full service hotel, so you don’t feel out on a limb, either.

9) Take a limo
There are times when you do need to hop across town. Limousines of the stretch variety aren’t the most subtle way to do this, but then you’re in Vegas, where even subtlety is letting itself go for the weekend, and running around in a gold lamé jump suit. If you’re in a group of four or so, it’s almost as cheap (rates are negotiable, depending on how quiet the driver is) to commandeer a limo – they’re usually lined up at hotel entrances. Take the driver’s card, and you can be ferried around all night in delightful tackiness for only a tweak more than a boring taxi.

10) Travel Facts
Virgin Atlantic fly from London Gatwick to Las Vegas, with fares starting at around £722 return.

Show Review Love is in the Mirage

If you're looking for a show that's a fusion of acrobatics, dance and visual effects, accompanied by a classic rock 'n' roll soundtrack, then all you need is LOVE.

Show Director Dominic Champagne calls Cirque du Soleil's LOVE a "rock 'n' roll poem." The show is a slightly psychedelic journey through the trends and politics of the '60s and most importantly, The Beatles' history, told through nearly 30 of the group's songs.
LOVE started out as a collaboration between George Harrison and Cirque du Soleil's Guy LaLiberté. After Harrison's death, the remaining Beatles and the families of the late group members helped bring Harrison's vision to life, sharing their ideas about song selection and song order for the show.

The music director for LOVE is none other than Sir George Martin, who is best known for his work producing The Beatles' music. Martin's son, Giles, is also a music director for the show.

Although LOVE features some well-known Beatles songs, it is not meant to be a greatest hits show.

The journey starts with the energetic "Get Back" at the scene of The Beatles' farewell concert and then flashes back to Liverpool during World War II when the band members were young children.

No journey through the '60s would be complete without a trip through the era of Beatlemania. Acrobats and tumblers on trampolines perform, accompanied by "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "Drive My Car."

"Help" serves as the soundtrack for four extreme sports athletes who take the stage leaping 11 foot ramps on inline skates.

"Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" and "Octopus's Garden" are the perfect backdrops for Cirque's famous aerial ballet moves.

The show even features a "jam session" created from authentic recordings of the four band members. All of the audio clips and music in the show are from actual recordings from The Beatles' Abbey Road studio.

The show concludes with its namesake "All You Need is Love," as a montage of photos of The Beatles plays on huge screens, leaving the audience with a feeling of nostalgia for a bygone era.

Besides The Beatles, the other star of the show is the 2,000-plus seat theater itself, which features 360-degree seating. There is not a bad seat in the house and the farthest is only 98 feet from the stage.

The sound system is unlike any other - there are 6,341 speakers in the theater and patrons feel as though they are completely enveloped in sound. There are three speakers per seat -- two in each headrest and one in the seat in front of you.

The theater also features a complex video system with 28 projectors and two 20-foot-high by 100-foot-wide screens, which contribute to the visual experience.

LOVE is not a typical Cirque du Soleil show with high-flying trapeze artists, gymnasts and acrobats. Although there is some of that in the show, it is mainly a theatrical and dance-oriented show. The creators also wanted to bring a bit of the youth of today into the show, showcasing extreme sports, break dancing and street dancing.

In the end, it's all about the music and if you're a fan of The Beatles, you'll have nothing but love for this show.

The Sexy Side of Vegas Shows

If you've never been to Vegas or experienced one of the many Vegas shows that are available to behold, let me be the first to tell you: they are not created equal. People will choose to see shows for many different reasons and there is no right or wrong reason to see any Vegas show unless you are simply determined to hate it from the beginning. Even then you might find yourself to be either mildly or wildly surprised.

I would be remiss if I didn't take the time to mention some of the wonderfully sexy shows that are prominent in Vegas at the moment. There are quite a few and will appeal to audiences on different levels and for different reasons, well some of them will at any rate while most of them offer universal appeal to certain members of the audience it is important to remember the statement I made earlier, not all shows are created equally and it doesn't really matter how beautifully endowed the members of the cast are if the show has no wit, humor, drama, or interesting points about it.

Les Foiles Bergere is one of the best examples of a classic Vegas style show or at least my interpretation of what a Vegas style show should be.

This show literally sizzles with its sex appeal and is a great show to kick off your stay in Vegas. You'll be ready to roll the dice after seeing this show for sure. There are generally two shows offered. The 7:30 show is covered so that all ages can enjoy the show all others feature topless numbers and request that audience members be 16 and over. The show can be seen at 7:30 and 10:00 on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Tuesday and Friday offer one show only at 8:30 and Sundays are dark. This is a can't miss show and a real hit for the Tropicana Las Vegas.

If you want to go even more darkly erotic, John Stagliano's Fashionistas is definitely the route you should take. This is a very erotic experience everything about this show simply sizzles. Not only is the choreography and costume design stellar, this show has some of the best music to be found in Vegas with songs by Evanescence, Madonna, Led Zeppelin, Lords of Acid, and Crystal Method.

La Femme, playing at the MGM Grand is a rather unique show, even for Vegas, in that it literally celebrates that artistry of the nude. The overall affect is a stunning visual display of light, color, sound, flesh, and dance. You must be 18 or older to attend this particular show and there is a dress code for the performances, which is business casual so come dressed appropriately. Shows are Wednesday through Monday at 8:00 and 10:30 pm. If you want to see the ultimate water cooler show, this one is definitely the show to see.

There are so many shows in Vegas that it would be virtually impossible to mention each and every one. These are each excellent examples of the sexiest shows that Vegas has to offer. Only you can decide what you are comfortable seeing and if you're curious try one of the shows that offers an optional covered showing rather than making yourself uncomfortable or putting yourself in the position to be uncomfortable. The main purpose of going to Vegas is to enjoy yourself. Do what makes you happy.

Las Vegas shows are a big part of the excitement of this city that never sleeps

Las Vegas is a land of shows. Each Las Vegas Strip casino has at least one show for tourists (and locals!) to watch, and most have more. Las Vegas shows are as various as they are fantastic, from comedy shows, to magic, to showgirl shows. The variety is almost endless


One of the most famous families of shows on the Las Vegas Strip is the Cirque du Soleil productions. Cirque du Soleil is a French circus concept that has been entertaining viewers for many years now. Some Vegas shows, such as the Blue Man Group, defy categorization. This production show mixes choreography with a concert. Certainly, it is worth a look.

Classic shows like Jubilee helped create the Las Vegas image; showgirls and dancers covered in rhinestones. These may be the most quintessential of traditional Las Vegas shows, and they show no signs of fading. The Chippendales Show is for women what showgirls shows are for men. Needless to say, adult shows are a favorite for Vegas tourists.

For the more family focused visitors to Las Vegas, magic shows are an option to explore. Everyone loves be dazzled; and disappearing acts, magic with white tigers, and sharp humor mix together to create an experience that is sure to please.
Musicals also play a large role in the Las Vegas entertainment scene. Mamma Mia!, Menopause; The Musical, The Phantom of the Opera, and others show almost every night. These shows offer visitors to sit back after a day on the Strip, relax, and laugh, cry, or hum along with their favorite show characters.
With variety like this, everyone from bachelors and bachelorettes living it up to families with young children will find some show to fit their needs. Las Vegas shows are the backbone of the Las Vegas Strip. They don’t disappoint.