I will not keep you all tensed up waiting to find out the name of the play: “Nunsense,” has been a tremendous hit for more than 25 years in New York, and has spawned off a number of franchises across the country since its debut on Dec. 12, 1985, in the Cherry Lane Theater. After opening it was soon moved to the Douglas Fairbanks Theater where it ran for a solid 10 years. During those 10 years it performed 3,672 performances, becoming the second longest running off-Broadway show in history (after The Fantasticks). The show also went to London in 1987, where it played in the Fortune Theatre at the West End.

The play was first conceived by Dan Groggin as a series of greeting cards (yes, Nuns offering tart remarks with a clerical slant), before becoming a play. It has also been made into two television productions, starring the late Rue McClanahan as Mother Superior.

Now just who will be performing in this laugh filled romp depicting five Nuns in Hollywood? Well, first off, will be a personal favorite of this writer and one hell-of-a-funny lady who can sing her butt off, Kelly Clinton as Sister Mary Amnesia. Joining Clinton will be Janien Valentine, who at one time worked as a featured singer with Kelly’s husband, Clint Holmes, and who is currently also featured in the production of “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood. Valentine will continue to work in both productions, by the way.

Others cast for the 4 p.m. production, which will have a soft opening (that means no VIPs, Media or party) on Wednesday, Sept. 15, are Michelle Johnson, Diane Ellis, Kathy Arianoff and Robin Vincent.

Directing this version of “Nunsense” is Nancy Gregory (also responsible for the choreography) and the producer is Jay Harvey.

This should be a tremendous boost for the Hilton Hotel, which let “Menopause—The Musical” get away and land at the Luxor Hotel (where it is doing SRO business by the way). I predict “Nunsense” will be a huge hit, and will stay at the Hilton as long as it wants to!

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Good news for those who have been going to Bob Kephart’s Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel for the past year. When the Stop first arrived at the hotel, with a 9 p.m. starting time (which it was able to maintain easily), it was booked into the Congo Room upstairs near the now closed buffet. After closing the buffet, hotel management asked Kephart if he would mind moving downstairs to the 800-plus-seat showroom, with regular starting time of 9 p.m. Well, as many of our regulars learned, it was hard to predict exactly when the Comedy Stop would be ready to seat its audience, as the preceding show would consistently run over its allotted time. Well, gang, those days are gone.

Beginning this Monday, August 30, the 9 p.m. show will be on time and in a new location within the Sahara Hotel. Kephart has agreed to move to the newly renovated Casbar Lounge, Also, for the first time, 18-year olds will be allowed to attend the Comedy Stop without an accompanying adult. The room is being designed to accommodate a wee bit more than 150 in comfortable seating.

Opening the Club, in its new location, will be local favorite Cork Proctor, along with Hal Spear and the always crazy antics of Steve Shaffer. Local residents, with proof of residence, can still purchase a special ticket at the Sahara box office for $19.95 plus tax and fees. Regular ticket prices begin at $24.95 plus tax and fees.

This coming Sunday, August 29, The Corner Gallery in Boulder City will hold an Art Swap, where anyone is welcome and where you can

buy, swap, trade or sell anything art related, beginning at 10 a.m. and going until about 2 p.m. If interested in selling you can reserve a table for $10. For further information contact Chris Frausto at 702-501-9219.

This Sunday (Aug. 29) the Flamingo Library, 1401 E. Flamingo, will host the wonderful singing duo, Ron & Lisa Smith, performing their fabulous, “Back to Broadway,” starting at 2:00 p.m. Tickets at the door will cost $15.00, and I consider that a terrific bargain considering this is a top caliber presentation by two dynamic singers. We gladly recommend this show.

Well, gang, that’s about it for yet another week. I’m outa here!

Right off the bat, I’m telling you this is a fabulous production, with lots of glamour, pizzazz, singing and dancing. It has it all, believe me. If there is anything wrong with “Vegas! The Show,” it’s that David has tried to include too much in 80-minutes.

Now don’t get me wrong, I loved the production. The show has listed six principal featured performers, but in this writer’s opinion, it has 26 featured performers (you have to see these fabulous 12 ladies and five guys dance) and you’ll know why I wrote what I did. There are also two specialty acts that are just marvelous. And the 11-piece band, under the direction of Jerry Lopez and musical director, Pat Caddick, is what moves this show along nice and easy—especially for the singers. A real live band. What a concept!

Reva Rice is one of three beautiful and talented singers in the production. Rice has been a featured performer on Broadway.  She arrived in Las Vegas when the Hilton Hotel booked the Broadway hit, “Starlight Express,” into its specially constructed showroom in Sept. 1993. She starred as Pearl in the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical until it closed in Nov. 1997. Rice is a tremendous singer and has numerous solos throughout the show.

Trina Johnson-Finn, is a vital part of the trio of women who can sing and dance like they actually did in the early days of Las Vegas. You might remember Finn from the news, when in March, 2009, she was arrested and put in a prison in Suriname, a small country in northern part of South America. Trina was held in the prison for three months until proven innocent of posing as Toni Braxton, in a concert in the South American country. In truth, Finn was hired as a Tribute Artist, but the promoter advertised that the real Toni Braxton would be there.

The third lady in the trio is Jaime Preston, who is well known in Las Vegas, appearing in such lavish productions as “The Sirens of TI,” “Tribute,” “The Main Event,” “The Vamps,” and most recently headlined in the production of, “Las Vegas Pussycat Dolls.”

Tiger Martina, director and choreographer, has picked very possibly 12 of the finest lady dancers and five dynamic boy dancers in Las Vegas for his dance line. I’m not going to name them, but I will tell you that each of the 17 dancers work their butts off, to the intricate choreography put forth by the director. And, the costumes truly take you back to the days when Las Vegas had a bevy of beautiful dancers in just about every showroom on the Strip.

And what David Saxe has done is bring back that flavor of the good ol’ days as we, who fortunately lived here and enjoyed the performers and shows of old, remember. Those were the days of class and beauty. Like Eric Jordan Young explains in the opening segment, people used to have class when they went to see a show. Young is found sitting in the Neon Jungle (the old Neon signs that were saved and placed in a museum downtown) reminiscing about the days when gentlemen wore suits and ties in the showroom, and ladies showed up in beautiful gowns and furs. The town reeked of class in those days, beginning in the ‘50s and ending around the mid ‘80s.

Tom Lowe began his career in showbiz at the age of 18, when his band, “North and South,” hit the top 10 on the United Kingdom charts. He went on to star in numerous London West End plays, before coming to America in 2001. Lowe has a great voice and appears in one segment as Elvis. Here is where I have a problem. He is dressed in a white suit (yes, Elvis did at one time appear in white suits), but Elvis never had blond hair. In my opinion Tom should at least wear a good black wig for his Elvis bit. He honestly, looked to me more like a Pat Boone than an Elvis. This can be fixed real easy, David!

The Rat Pack is represented by Dean Martin, as portrayed by Gabriel Burrafato. Gabriel has performed on Broadway and National tours across the U.S. and Canada. EMI music has picked Burrafato to be a part of an exciting new group called, “Bellaria,” a celebration of Italian-American music. The group will debut on PBS in the fall. Gabriel also starred as Lancelot in the touring production of “Camelot.”

The two specialty acts are top notch, especially the explosive tap dancing of Sean and John Scott, who are identical twins. Joseph Gabriel is a fabulous up-close-and-personal magician who performs wondrous tricks of magic with his white doves and a fabulous parrot. More on these two performers in a later column.

Saxe told me after the show that he was still tweaking the production, along with associate producer, Rick Kaufman. I would not presume to tell these fine musicians, producers or directors what to change—but if I did, I would say look at cutting back on some of the dance numbers, to allow the historical impressions to appear more clearly.  For example, when the three girls appear on stage to portray a trio of famous ladies, who helped to make Vegas famous, Lena Horne, Judy Garland and Ella Fitzgerald, I had no idea who was who. I would definitely also use more of Mr. Young as a guide throughout the show. Other than that, this is a must see show for everyone, from the very young to the very old. Call the Saxe Theater for ticket prices and show times.

Well, gang, that’s about it for this week. I’m outa here!

Deana Martin

The evening this writer caught her SRO performance at the Suncoast Hotel & Casino (Saturday, July 24), really turned out to be a very special night. Vera (Mrs. Robert) Goulet along with Peter and Barbara Justl, Nancy Barr and this writer, arrived just as the show was to begin.

Vince Falcone, “Conductor to the Stars,” had assembled a super fine band for the two night engagement: Joe Lano, guitar; Mike Mechem, drums; Bob Sachs, bass; and Dale Rampton, percussions. Of course, Deana sang a bunch of her dad’s hits, such as “Everybody Loves Somebody,” “That’s Amore,” “Sway,” “Somebody Loves You,” and “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head!” But what turned a fabulous performance into a Super Duper Fantastic evening (it can only happen in Las Vegas) was who Ms. Martin’s husband, John Griffeth, had waiting behind a door, which had been conveniently placed on stage.

The first knock (remember the door on the Dean Martin Television Show) came about midway through the 90-minute show. Deana walked over and opened the door (just like her father used to do) and out walked Frankie Randall, who was a long time friend of her father and especially Mr. Sinatra. After a brief chat, the two friends (they also perform together in a group called “That’s Italian,” which features Randall, Martin, Julius La Rosa, Pete Barbutti, and sometimes Dick Contino) did a duet of, “It Had to be You.” It was beautiful!

The second knock at the door followed about 10 minutes later. Ms. Martin dutifully opened the door, and who was there, why Lena Prima, daughter of the legendary Louis Prima, who the Rat Pack (remember them?) used to watch while in Vegas a long time ago. A short talk about some favorite memories, the two ladies did a duet of Prima’s hit, “That Old Black Magic.” Well, let me tell you, it was a definite moment in time.

Ms. Martin returned to continue her show as planned, when there came a third knock at the door. And guess who was there this time? Well, like I said, it could only happen in Las Vegas, out stepped two guys who sorta grew up with Deana (well, at least with her younger brother, Dean Paul), Desi Arnaz, Jr and Billy Hinsche. Hinsche and Arnaz were two members of a very famous Rock Band during the mid ‘60s called, “Dino, Desi and Billy.” Dino, of course, was Dean Paul Martin, who was killed in an airplane accident in 1987. The three, Deana, Desi and Billy, managed to get through a very special song, “Memories Are Made of This.” It was once again an extremely beautiful moment in time, and one the 400 plus members of the audience will never forget. And, which probably, will never happen again. Four wonderful people, who all had a strong connection to a very special man, Mr. Dean Martin and his family, were together once again on a stage. What more could you ask for?

There was also about a 10-minute film showing rare photographs and such of Dean Martin and family, playing together and performing as a family. The entire evening was so darn special. And then we all joined to wish Deana’s son, Mickey, happy birthday at a small after the show gathering.

I was going to review Ms. Martin’s book in this column, but I feel I can hold on to that for a couple of weeks. I will tell you, however, I started the book (given to me by the author) on I believe Tuesday afternoon and didn’t want to set it down, but I had to go to bed, and finished all 289 pages the following morning. She tells a fascinating story.

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I can’t wait until Sept. 3, when two of my favorite entertainers return to the Red Rock Resort. Of course I speak of Zowie Bowie, which is fronted by Chris Philips, and the beautiful Marley Taylor. They do everything and do it well, starting with hip-hop to the Big Band era (which is my personal favorite, and especially when they do the Frank Sinatra music). The group will be appearing in the Rock Lounge every Friday.

“I know I Came in Here for Something,” billed as a middle age musical, and bound to be a very funny musical, will be presented in the Anthem Theater this Sunday, August 8. It’ll feature Vic Moea, Susan Haller, Tom Dyer and Jeaneane Marie singing about 20 plus songs. Musical director is Laurence Sobel and it’s produced by Gateway Arts Foundation and Carole Altman. Sounds to me like a fun show, and if my very special friend, Ms. Marie, is in it, then that’s good enough for me to recommend it!

The Atomic Testing Museum, 755 E. Flamingo, will be holding the Second Annual Family Day, this Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. This year it’s titled, “Journey Through Japan,” and they will be commemorating the 65^th Anniversary of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which brought the end to World War II. Last year more than 400 attended the event.

Well, gang, that’s about it for another week. I’m outa here!

One does not turn down the former Lt. Governor of our state. Besides I wanted to see Deana in action. I was joined in the booth by fellow scribe, Jackie Brett, Annette Falcone (wife of conductor Vince Falcone) and Nancy Barr’s grandson, Devon Barr, who was visiting his very proud grandmother for the week.

The show started promptly with host, Dennis Bono, singing “If I should Lose You,” followed by Lorraine belting out a very special “How About You,” which included some very unique words.  Next up was Deana who sang her dad’s famous hit, and one she has practically made her own, “Somebody Loves You.”

The difference between the Dennis Bono Show and Toast of the Town at Sam’s Town is that Dennis sits down with each guest, and they have a casual conversation—I find this very charming and Bono is so good at doing the interviews (discussions).  Deana talked easily about her famous father, Dean Martin and Uncle Frank (Sinatra). Deana returned to center stage and closed out her portion of the show with, “Everybody Loves Somebody.”

Eddie Mekka, who gained fame as Carmine on the Laverne & Shirley Show in the ‘70s, sang “Luck Be a Lady Tonight.” During Mekka’s conversation with Dennis, it was learned that he had just finished a tour with “Fiddler on the Roof,” and was preparing for a 35 week tour of “Grease.”

Bono closed out the show with a very beautiful ‘Always On My Mind.” The Dennis Bono Show tapes every Thursday at 2:00 p.m. in the beautiful South Point showroom. The show is free to the public, with club members getting first dibs on seating. The afternoon we attended, it was SRO.

When Robert Goulet was first at the Dunes Hotel (where the Bellagio now stands) in 1982, he would rotate his opening acts just about every week or two. He loved the comedians who used to work the Catskills. As he often said, “Normie, they paid their dues and learned all the tricks of how to read an audience. You can’t go wrong with a Catskill comedian—they are the best!”

One of those comedians was a young man named Sal Richards, who had been hired by Arthur Shenker, owner of the Dunes Hotel, to work at the “Top of the Dunes”—a super nightclub that overlooked the Las Vegas Strip. Goulet, his wife Vera, and this writer would find our way to the “Top” just about every night, following Robert’s second show (in those days the stars performed two shows every night). Eventually, we convinced Mr. Shenker to allow Richards to open for Robert in the Dunes Showroom. We had a lot of fun with Sal, including walking through the audience and dropping serving trays to having someone paging Sal from the audience. Whatever we could do to get a laugh we did it! And Richards loved it.

Why am I mentioning the above? Simple! I just finished reading Sal’s book, “Behind the Laughter, Hidden Tears,” which is one of the easiest books I’ve ever read. It took me about five hours to read the 159 pages, packed with quick little stories of his career and life. It quickly takes you through all the foibles of being an entertainer—the loss of his son, his bout with drinking and fighting with various people, who could’ve made him disappear. He admits to a lot of faults, but the one thing consistent in the book is: Richards tells ya the truth from beginning to end. He may have left out a couple of issues, but very little is missing.

You can purchase “Behind the Laughter, Hidden Tears,” on Amazon. It’s a great read!

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Speaking of Lorraine Hunt-Bono, she was informed that the August issue of “Playboy’s Guide to America’s Greatest Bars,” has named her establishment, The Bootlegger Bistro on Las Vegas Blvd. South, as Playboy’s Best Bar in Las Vegas. Between the original Bootlegger on Eastern at Tropicana, and its present location, the Bootlegger has been in operation a total of 36 years. Some more good news: If you are looking for a location to hold a company party, a wedding reception or any type of event from 20 to 400 people, the Bootlegger now has the perfect venue. Give them a call. And, if you are an event planner (and there’s a lot of them in Las Vegas) then you should take a look at what they have to offer. You will be amazed! Call (702) 736-4939 for more information.

Just a reminder that Jay White, who without question is the best Neil Diamond impressionist in the business today, will be at the Suncoast Casino Showroom this Saturday and Sunday, July 31-August 1, with a 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets start at $29.95 plus tax and fees. I’ll see ya there!

Got a note from former Las Vegas resident, and a fabulous entertainer, Loretta Holloway, informing me about the television series she is starring in, “The Bishop’s House,” which has received great revues in the markets where its been seen. She also reports she’ll be leaving for Shanghai, China, August 17 for an extended tour.  Oh, yeah, she still radiates the beauty and charm that made her so popular when she lived and worked in Las Vegas. Loretta also worked at the “Top of the Dunes.”

Another quick reminder: Ron and Lisa Smith will be at the Starbright Theater in Summerlin this Saturday night (July31) with their show, “Back to Broadway.” Showtime is 7:00 p.m. with tickets priced at $15 for residents, and $18 for non-residents.

Well, gang, next week I’ll give you a complete rundown on the great show I saw last weekend at the Suncoast, starring Deana Martin. It was fabulous! And, I’ll also do a review of her book, which is a great read.

That’s it for another week. I’m outta here!

So, when I talked to Ms. Martin over the phone the other day, it was like old times, and we had a lot of catching up to do. I had met her a few times after that first meeting, when the Chairman of the Board (Sinatra) would call a gathering of the (Clan or Rat Pack) at the Sands Hotel in the ‘60s. I was fortunate enough to be allowed back stage following their performances. As was usually the case, Deana was accompanied by her adopted mother, Jeanne.

“I used to love sitting in the audience and watching my father perform,” Ms. Martin said. “I knew he was an entertainer, because I had watched him on television, but when I saw him in person the first time, it was something very special. I was around nine or 10 then. He was so magnificent.”

The gangly girl from the ‘60s has turned into a beautiful 5”2 ½ svelte entertainer, who can belt out a song as good as anyone. It’s in the genes!

Deana Martin will be performing in the Suncoast showroom in Summerlin this Saturday and Sunday, July 24-25, with the show, “Deana Sings Deano—a Tribute to Dad,” set to kick off at 7:30. Conductor to the Stars, Vince Falcone, will have Joe Lano on guitar; Mike Mechem, drums; Bob Sachs, bass; and Dale Rampton, percussion, backing the 62-year young singer. Martin will be singing some of the songs made famous by her father, plus special selections form the “Great American Song Book.” You’ll hear songs like “Memories Are Made of This,” “That’s Amore,” “Everybody Loves Somebody,” as well as “Ain’t that a Kick in the Head,” Sway,” “Mack the Knife,” and “That Old Black Magic.”

Deana is one of Dean’s seven children.  She is the only one who has made a career of walking out on a stage and singing. Dean’s first wife, Betty, who passed away in 1989, was the beloved mother of Stephen, Claudia, Barbara and Deana in that order. Jeanne, Dean’s second wife, was the mother of Dean Paul, Ricci and Gina. Claudia died in 2001 from cancer and Dean Paul was killed when his National Guard jet crashed into a mountain outside of Palm Springs in 1987. In a weird turn of events, Frank Sinatra’s mother, Natalie “Dolly” Sinatra, died when the private jet she was aboard  crashed into the very same mountain, exactly 10 years earlier.

Deana confirmed, what I’ve known for a long time, that her father never drank liquor on stage. “It was always tea,” she explained. “As a matter of fact, dad was a very casual drinker when he was home. He might have a glass of wine with dinner and perhaps a cocktail later…but that was about it!”

when she was 17, Ms. Martin traveled to England to study drama at the Dartington College of Arts in the United Kingdom, amassing an impressive array of theatrical credits. In 1966, after returning to the states, she made her television debut on “The Dean Martin Show.” Frank Sinatra was the special guest star for that particular show.

Deana Martin is constantly on the go, performing in more than 200 concerts a year. In 2004 she penned the best selling book: “Memories Are Made of This: Dean Martin Through His Daughters Eyes.” The book is currently in the process of being made into a movie, with the screenplay being written by actor/writer, Bonnie Hunt.  Actor Joe Montegna is set to direct.

“It should be a great movie,” she said. “I personally can’t wait to see it start production.”

A wee bit of trivia: Dean Martin died on Christmas Day, 1995. His mother, Angela, died on Christmas Day, 1967.

Deana is married to John Griffeth and they have a son, Mickey (40) who works in the legal department at Warner Bros Studios. John and Deana fly to most of their engagements in their Cessna 310, named “Volare.” John has been a pilot for more than 40 years, with his wife getting her pilots license in 2004. They have two homes, one in Beverly Hills, Calif., and the second home in Branson, Ms.

“We love Branson so much. It’s our real escape home. I can go anywhere, and there’s no paparazzi following you around. Everyone is so calm and laid back. It’s just so peaceful.”

So, now, I hope you have learned a little bit more about a tremendous lady who has lived and had it all—lots of love, plenty of laughs, tragedy and unbelievable experiences, and still has her two feet firmly planted on good old terra firma.

Oh, yeah, I wanted to remind you that First Thursday will be August 5, at the Corner Galley in Boulder City. Artist Lee Moses will be on hand at 6:30 to discuss his unique art works in metal. Drop by, and while you are there, ask to see this writers sculptures.

Well, gang, that’s about it for this week. I’m outa here!

Little will be performing this Saturday, July 10, in The Club at The Cannery Casino in North Las Vegas at 8:00 p.m.

Little was born on Nov. 26, 1938, in Ottawa, Canada, to Dr. Lawrence Little (he passed away in 1957) and Elizabeth (who died in 1998 at the age of 94).  Rich shared his birth date with his friend of more than 35 years, Robert Goulet. Rich was the middle of three sons, Fred the eldest and, Chris, who died in 2004.

As a teenager, Little began entertaining his fellow students with impressions of local and national (Canadian) politicians. He would also use his ability to do voices of famous entertainers to get dates with the cute students, by calling them on the phone, and talking to them as if he was their favorite actor. The trick worked. “I had lots of dates, but they would usually end early when I showed up.”

Around that time (1952), he met another teenage impressionist in school, Geoff Scott, and the two decided to team up. By the time 1955 rolled around, the two teenagers were performing in nightclubs around Ottawa, and gaining quite a reputation..

In 1955, Little and Scott heard Ed Sullivan would be bringing his CBS television show, “Toast of the Town,” to Canada. Rich tells the story of how he and Scott (filled with thoughts that they were the best impressionists in Canada) snuck into the theater and cornered Sullivan in his dressing room. “Mr. Sullivan allowed us to do a short audition, while he was doing makeup. He was very nice and told us to, ‘Come back in 10 years.’” “We thought that was wonderful. Well, we learned latter, that was like the kiss of death,” Rich laughed.

Rich and Scott decided to break up the act soon after the Ed Sullivan encounter. Little began acting in little theatre productions, and also become a disc jockey, enriching his time on air with frequent impressions Rich recalled. Scott went on to indulge his dream of one day becoming a major force in Canadian politics, and in 1978, was elected as a Member of Canada’s Parliament, where he served for 15 years, losing during the 1993 elections.

In 1963, an American singer was listening to the radio and heard Little doing some amazing impressions. Mel Torme, who at the time was producing a new television show for Judy Garland, asked Rich if he would come to the states and do an audition for him. Little (as, they say in showbiz, killed) and he made his American television debut in 1964 on CBS’s Judy Garland Show. Rich had a special impression up his sleeve—he would do James Mason as Norman Maine from the 1954 movie, “A Star is Born,” starring Judy. His impression litterally thrilled the great singer, and from that memorable performance, Rich Little has never looked back.

In 1965, exactly 10 years after the audition in Canada, Little made his first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show (Toast of the Town), in the same episode singer Jerry Vale performed on. Rich returned in 1967, in a show where Nancy Sinatra sang her chart-busting hit, “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” Little made two more Sullivan appearances in 1967 and 1970.

This writer remembers attending a very special showing of a new concept produced by Little, in the main showroom at the Paris Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip, near the end of 2002. It was titled “Rich Little Does the Presidents.” I still personally, believe this was one of the best shows I’ve had the privilege of seeing. It involved Little doing nine Presidents from John F. Kennedy, including Richard Nixon, James Carter, Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Busch, in full costume, and make-up in front of nine different Oval Offices. It ran for a month at Paris, and then Rich took it on the road for three months in 2003.

Something a lot of the general public is unaware of is that Rich Little is a prolific artist. His charcoal drawings of celebrities, numbering about 30 (most of whom he knew or knows personally), including Presidents, are so darn perfect–it’s like you’re actually looking at the person. You can see some examples by going to  HYPERLINK “http://www.richlittle.com” www.richlittle.com and clicking on art works.

As most people are aware of (I’m pretty sure of this statement), Little is known as “The Man of a 1000 Voices.” And, indeed, he can do that many voices, ranging from Prime Minister Winston Churchill to President George W. Bush, with all the celebrities in the world in between.  One of his favorites was his long-time friend, Jimmy Stewart, who passed away in 1997.

For nearly two years, Little has been working on a play using the voice of Jimmy Stewart as the main character, with the voices of many of Stewart’s friends coming in and out of the play. “I broke it in at a theater in New Mexico and it got good reviews,” Little said. “I’m still tweaking it,and when I feel it’s perfect, I may bring it to Vegas like I did The Presidents.”

Rich Little is a giving man. He and his wife, Marie are involved in many charities including the Rich Little Special Care Nursery in Ottawa, Canada, Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Child Haven, Heart Association of Las Vegas, Lied Animal Shelter, Southern Nevada Rape Crisis Center and Ronald McDonald House to name a few.

Rich Little is also one of the few entertainers to be honored with a star in four different locations: The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Palm Springs Walk of Stars, Toronto Walk of Fame and the Las Vegas Walk of Stars. On December 13, 2009, Marie Little was honored with her own Las Vegas star, for her Humanitarian Achievements.

So, now, I hope you have learned something new about Rich Little, a fabulous performer who, after more than a half-a-century, continues to entertain with the same enthusiasm he and Scott had when they cornered Ed Sullivan in his dressing room in 1955.

That’s it for this week. I’m outa here!

We have been very fortunate to attend all three of its previous anniversaries, plus the opening back in 2007. If you have not taken the time to stop whatever you’re doing for a couple of hours, and travel to the Venetian, then shame on you. The Phantom is a wonderfully produced show, with top notch performers, sets and music. Of course the cast has changed over the four years, but there has been no loss in excitement and vocals.

Tony Award winner, Anthony Crivello (he has a list of awards a mile long) plays the Phantom and has, in this writer’s opinion, a true and beautiful voice, and when he sings the hit song, “The Music of the Night,” you will hear perfect pitch and a sense of reality in his voice. It’s a rare moment in the play.

Basically the plot of the show is that The Phantom has his eyes on only one person, who he is in love with, and that person is the beautiful Christine, as played by Kristi Holden (or Kristen Hertzenberg on Wednesday and Thursday), who is also the lady being pursued by Raoul, portrayed by Andrew Ragone.

What sells this play, besides the wonderful performers and music, is the fabulous stage and its fantastic sets, lighting and unbelievable effects. Of course the showroom, which was specially designed and built just for the play, adds greatly to the entire evening, and the costuming is unbelievable. Oh, yes, and one must not forget the huge Chandelier, that scares the hell out of you, as it falls from the ceiling into the audience (a beautiful touch by the way).

Tickets for The Phantom Las Vegas Spectacular range in price from $69.00 to $165.00 plus fees. Showtimes are 7 and 9:30 p.m. Monday and Saturday with all other nights 7 p.m. (dark most Sundays).

Tim Walkoe, a very talented musician and one funny guy, headlines this week at Bob Kephart’s Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel. Walkoe is a story teller, as well as a quick-on-the-trigger comedian, who uses his favorite prop, a guitar, to keep the audience laughing. Sharing the stage with Tim, is the equally talented Karen Rontowski, a former cigarette girl at Caesars Palace (Las Vegas), and Chris Coccia, a native of Philadelphia, who uses his personal life situations to create funny stories everyone can relate to.

Tickets for the 9 p.m. show are priced from $24.95 plus tax and fees, with a very special $19.95 ticket for locals (with proof of residence). For reservations call the Sahara box office at (702)737-2878.

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Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to interview one of my favorite entertainers (and a personal friend), Rich Little, who will be appearing in The Club at the Cannery Casino in North Las Vegas, Saturday, July 10. It’s an interesting look back at a career, and a man, who has entertained us for more than 47 years. It will be my lead item in next weeks’ column. But, hey, you can get your tickets now, as it’s sure to be a SRO crowd for this one-night only performance.

Known throughout the world as the premier Neil Diamond tribute artist, my friend and fellow Las Vegan, Jay White, will do his very special tribute show in the 500-seat Suncoast Showroom, July 31 and August 1, with show times set for 7:30 p.m. More on this as the date gets nearer. Tickets are priced from $29.95 plus fees.

The Fremont Street Experience continues its “Summer of the 70s” promotion with a weekend full of fun and music for the Fourth of July celebration. The multi-platinum recording artists, Little River Band, will play on the 3rd Street stage Saturday, July 3 at 9 p.m. as part of the downtown festivities.

Ron and Lisa Smith, she of the fabulous “Shades of Sinatra” and “Dangerous Curves,” will perform a unique revue at the Starbright Theatre, Saturday, July 31 at 7 p.m. The title tells it all, “Back to Broadway–A musical Revue.” The very talented husband and wife team covers the gamut of musicals from “The Music Man” to “Les Miserables” and some of the newer hits from the Broadway of today.

Well, gang, that’s about it for this week. I’m outa here!

Wayne Brady

Brady has returned to The Venetian, where he headlined for a couple of years, along with his comedy/improv partner, Jonathan Mangum. “Making it Up,” produced by BASE Entertainment, will continue to do just that, “make it up” each and every night, as they go.

“Las Vegas and The Venetian have been a great home base these past three years, and I love giving audiences a show unlike any other on The Strip,” Brady said. “No two shows are ever the same, as my partner, Jonathan, and I stage a new form of old school showbiz and make each show a one-of-a-kind experience.”

“Making it Up” can be seen over select performance dates, including tonight through Monday, June 28, and July 1-5. To make a reservation or view the performance schedule, visit www.venetian.com. Tickets range in price from $49, $69 and $89 plus tax and fees. There are also a limited number of VIP tickets available.

Alycia Cooper, a contestant on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” has made it to the semi-finals on the hit show, which will air next week. Cooper is currently headlining at The Comedy Stop at the Sahara Hotel, through Sunday, June 27. Producer, Bob Kephart, has also booked, Mike Winfield and Will Marfori, as part of his standard three new headline comedians each and every week.

Stand-up comedienne, Alycia Cooper, wrote the “Top 10’s” for the No. 1 radio show in Los Angeles, “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” and has written for the likes of Russell Simmons, of Def Jam fame. Cooper has penned a feature length screenplay and has worked on “Dr. Phil,” “Wanda Does It,” “Bands Reunited,” “The Magic Hour,” “The Grown Up” and “The Parkers.” Alycia has been featured in “Essence Magazine” as a comedienne to watch, and has been the warm up act for ‘Girlfriends” and “Wanda at Large.” Her stand up credits include BETs “Comicview,” “BET Live,” “Oh Drama” and of course, as a contestant on, “Last Comic Standing.”

Will Marfori knows what it is like to be disabled, having been born with Cerebral Palsy. But, Marfori does not allow his disability to keep him from doing what he loves best, entertaining an audience. Will shares his daily experiences and unique outlook on life during his hilarious time on stage. As he remarks so often, “I’m not a disabled person who is funny, I’m a funny person who just happens to be disabled.”

Mike Winfield is one of the fastest rising comedians on the circuit today. Not only has he appeared on just about every television show that books comedians, but he was also on, “Last Comic Standing.” Winfield is a first class story-teller, who uses his family life in many of his tales. Once you have seen Mike perform, you’ll realize why he has been called the next stand up star.

Tickets for the 9:00 p.m. show in the Sahara Theater begin at $24.95, with a special $19.95 ticket for locals, with proof of residence. For reservations call the Sahara Box Office, 702-737-2878.

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A good friend of this writer, Shelley Stepanek, has been re-elected as President of Destination Services Association, and will serve as such for the next two years. Stepanek, who owns Stagedreams, Ltd., was originally elected to the leadership position in November, 2007. Recently Shelley has been an entertainment agent and has been kept busy co-producing shows in Aruba and Macau, and produced and co-owned the show, “From Russia With Love” which did quite well at a local downtown casino. Congratulations friend.

Sammy Shore, one of the funniest stand up comedians working today (and he is no youngster, gang), will be doing his thing at the Eastside Cannery on Boulder Highway, this Friday and Saturday, June 25-26. The show, “Sammy Shore’s Barking Mad Comedy Jam,” not only has Shore tossing out great stories and one-liners, but also features at least two of his comedy friends.

One thing about Sammy, and his show, is it is one of the cleanest shows you’ll ever see today. Yes, you heard me right. There is no use of the famous F word, or other words in that particular dictionary. Sammy, who worked as the opening act for Elvis for a number of years, and was one of the few who could make Elvis roll on the floor from laughing so darn hard, believes that comedy can be funny using words that are found in the regular American dictionary. I agree with him and I just happen to love his form of making people laugh. He’s old school!

A quick reminder that The Corner Gallery, in historic Boulder City (where my sculptures are on display), will host a First Thursday gathering on July 1, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Wood cut artist, Rainer Bertrams, will be on hand to demonstrate his works of art, and hostess, Christina Frausto, will serve free wine and light fare.

Well, gang, that’s about it for this week. I’m outa here!

I remember Cheap Trick from a couple of their early recordings in the ‘70s. Over the years (as I grew older and my hearing became more delicate), I moved away from even listening to any Hard Rock style of music. I was also not a huge fan of the Beatles (I know, I know I have sinned), but I did enjoy a few of their songs. Nancy was definitely a big Beatles fan.

It was a packed house inside the Paris Las Vegas Theatre, as Cheap Trick returned to Las Vegas in their celebration of the iconic Beatles’ album. The group had previously appeared at the Las Vegas Hilton on Paradise, where they did fantastic business. The over-sized Paris stage worked well for this presentation, as the Sgt. Pepper Symphony Orchestra (strings and all) were set up on a bandstand pedestal, I would guess about 15 feet above the stage. Cheap Trick had the front and were pretty well spaced out, which may have led to one of the sound problems. Yes, even with my tender ears, I noticed the problems.

Oh, yes, about mid-way through the show, out slid a large sofa with a group of musicians playing authentic Indian Sitar band instruments, with Tom Petersson, 60, featured. What I did find of interest was how lead guitarist, Rick Nielsen, 64, (the original member of the group when it was first formed as, “Fuse” in 1967 with Petersson), would spin his guitar picks out into the audience. The various colored picks were attached (I guess with glue) to his mic stand, and there had to be hundreds of them. I’m again guessing, this has to be one of Nielsen’s gimmicks, besides being considered one of the greatest lead guitarists in the country. Robin Zander, 57, has been with Cheap Trick as lead vocalists and rhythm guitarist since 1972, is without question, a great Rock’n Roll singer. The drummer, Daxx Nielsen, is the son of Rick.

We were sitting a wee bit too close for my comfort and hearing, but we stayed as long as I could handle it. It is definitely a wonderful show for those who enjoy their music a little on the loud side. If you are a Hard Rock aficionado, then this is definitely a show for you to see. If you are a true Beatles fan (and most people are), then you’ll really enjoy this performance. The remaining June dates are Friday, June 18 and 25, and Tuesday, June 22 and 29. They return to Paris on July 20. Tickets range from $75 to $250 plus tax and fees.

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Just In: Rich Little, one of the good guys, has inked a deal with the Cannery Casino & Hotel, to perform in The Club, Saturday, July 10 at 8 p.m. The last time Rich performed in our little village (he and his wife, Marie, are Las Vegas residents) was a couple of years ago at the Golden Nugget. At that time, Little had to pull out of the deal, because of an unexpected illness (they’re all unexpected, duh?). The last time I talked to Rich, he was in New Mexico breaking in a new one-man show on the late great movie star, Jimmy Stewart. I’ll let you know what he’ll be doing at the Cannery as soon as I talk to him.

This Sunday, at the Boulder City Veterans Home, the annual Father’s Day Show produced by Nelson Sardelli, will have more than 33 performers donating their time and talents to entertain the residents and the general public. The following is a list of those confirmed to appear: Vince Falcone, Gary Olds Trio, Michaelina, Artie Schroeck, Pete Barbutti, Babe Pier, Jerry Lopez, Genevieve, Cork Proctor, The Great Tomsoni & Co, Allen Tramont, Charly Raymond, Paul Campanella, Peter Anthony, Dr. George Ritter, Nathan Brian Wine, Ronnie Rose, Charlie Shaffer, Joni Illi, Nik Mastrangelo, Dr. Wilfred Krom, Thom Nelli, Tom Marth, Diane Ellis, Larry Tailor, Tommy Thompson, Robert Ensler, Mundane the Grate, Sinco, Lou Toomin, and of course, Nelson Sardelli. Nelson wanted to make sure everyone is aware this show is open to the public and it’s free. The program is scheduled to get underway at 10:00 a.m. and will go until at least 2:00 p.m.

Well, gang, that’s about it for this week. I’m outta here!

The title of the show was, “Magic Moments…A Classic Trip.” And, let me tell you, it definitely was a classic trip through time. With a 10-minute intermission, the production ran nearly three hours, which is my only complaint: War & Peace (the 1956 movie) ran nearly four hours and that was a classic!

The Sun City Anthem Performing Arts Club (you must live in Anthem to be a member) uses this particular venue every year as a fundraiser, and it does very well—raising thousands of dollars which is used for future productions. George Gingerelli conceived and directed the production with Julia Dodson, co-director. What they took on was an unbelievable task, but they pulled it together, and came out with a performance that was fabulous.

I will not even try to name everyone of importance, because they were all important. There were 38 people ranging from stage management to make-up behind the scenes. A total of 15 men and women took care of making sure everyone was ushered to their seats, during the three nights and Sunday afternoon performances.

The first scene sets up the entire evening as Professor Fullercrap and his assistant, Ann Sain, meet with a group of reporters to discuss their newly discovered way to, “Time Travel.” I am purposely not using personal names as every actor, singer, and musician were tremendously important to each and every scene—beginning with the scene from the movie, “Patton” (1970), where the General stood in front of the American Flag and spoke to his troops on June 5, 1944, the day before D-Day. Between that speech and the final sketch from the 1984 music video,” Thriller,” a total of 29 sketches were presented. Some were small presentations, such as “Singing in the Rain,” from the 1952 movie, to extravaganzas like the musical bits from “Les Miserables,” to a great “A Chorus Line,” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”

What I’m trying to say is that you don’t have to go to Los Angeles or New York to see some great moments in time. It’s right here, once a year in Anthem, and let me tell you, these senior citizens are terrific and have more energy than a group of teenagers. Just hope that next year they remember that time is important to us Senior Citizens in the audience, too!

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“The Mob” is coming back to take charge of a small portion of the famous Tropicana Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. Yep, gang, you read it right, “The Mob” is back!

Anchored by the largest collection of authentic artifacts, memorabilia, photos and videos of organized crime ever assembled, The Las Vegas Mob Experience” will be an attraction unlike any other, anywhere! The Experience is scheduled to open in December 2010, where the Titanic display was once anchored. It will use the latest in “interactive entertainment technology” to immerse guests in a presentation of the rise and fall of organized crime. Guests will make their way through a theatrical, interactive setting that promises intrigue, mystery and suspense. The special effects, used to present this never before seen content, will set a new standard for attractions such as museums and exhibits worldwide, according to its spokesperson.

What also sets this apart from any other venue, is that guests will also have the opportunity to meet the “family members,” of a number of the men and women, who will be highlighted throughout the Experience. More on this as time closes in on the opening. Needless to say, it should be quite an Experience for young and old alike. I am personally looking forward to the holograms.

Don’t forget to head for The Orleans Showroom this Saturday and Sunday, to see four of the finest entertainers do their thing. Vocal Soup, consisting of Clint Holmes, Susan Anton, Domenick Allen and Martin Nievera, will be grooving and crooning for more than 90 minutes on stage, beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are priced from $33.00 to $55.00 plus tax.

Well, gang, that’s about it for this week. I’m outa here!