If there’s one thing that never sleeps in Las Vegas, it’s the electric energy of its live entertainment scene. From downtown variety acts to celebrations of reggae legends and spectacular productions marking landmark anniversaries, Las Vegas offers an array of shows for every taste. Let’s dive into some of the highlights that promise to make waves this year.
A classic twist with ‘Mavericks’
The Plaza Showroom in downtown Las Vegas is set to host Amy “Miss Behave” Saunders and her audacious variety show, “Mavericks.” Known for its unique blend of humor, cabaret, and mind-blowing performances, “Mavericks” provides a fresh take on entertainment while keeping prices accessible, starting at just $35.
“Mavericks” stands out for its unpredictability—no two shows are ever the same. Saunders emphasizes this as a key feature, insisting that they avoid suffocating their performances with heavy narratives. Instead, they offer a straightforward yet captivating experience, hearkening back to the authentic Vegas atmosphere where spontaneity reigns supreme.
Dita Von Teese’s burlesque brilliance
This September sees the return of the “Queen of Burlesque,” Dita Von Teese, who will grace Voltaire at The Venetian. Her show promises to be more dynamic than ever, building on her previous stints and enhancing them with fresh theatrical elements. Despite featuring backing dancers often seen in other major productions, Von Teese’s act remains singular and uniquely hers.
Von Teese’s residency will run across multiple dates, bringing old-world glamour meshed with contemporary flair. It’s not your typical showgirl spectacle; expect a modern twist on vintage burlesque that celebrates femininity and artistry.
A walk down Hope Road: Bob Marley’s legacy
For fans of reggae, the newly minted Hope Road offers a dual experience celebrating Bob Marley’s enduring influence. Co-produced by his son Ziggy Marley, this attraction features both daytime and nighttime experiences. By day, visitors can embark on a multisensory tour filled with digital and analog installations that recall Marley’s messages of love, freedom, and social justice.
As night falls, Hope Road transitions into an intimate live performance backed by Marley’s timeless music. The cast aims to illustrate the rich diversity of humankind, making it a poignant tribute to the legendary singer’s vision of “one love”.
The evening experience
Hope Road by Night transforms into a vibrant showcase, intimately connecting audiences to Marley’s lyrical prowess and spiritual ethos. This immersive environment allows spectators to feel unified through the power of music and storytelling, creating an unforgettable connection to Marley’s legacy.
- Multi-sensory installations by day
- Intimate live performances by night
- Celebrates universal themes of love and unity
‘Awakening’ at Wynn Las Vegas
Embarking on its third year, “Awakening” at Wynn Las Vegas is nothing short of a grand spectacle. Driven by Baz Halpin’s artistic vision, Michael Curry’s extraordinary puppetry, and Bernie Yuman’s magic touch, it combines all these elements under the supportive wing of Wynn Las Vegas. With a significant investment of $120 million, this production seeks to inspire awe and wonder in its audience.
Despite initial skepticism and the challenge of stepping into the shoes of its predecessor “Le Reve”, “Awakening” continues to evolve. Each aspect from technical prowess to narrative flow has been fine-tuned, assuring that every performance leaves an indelible mark on its viewers.
A show for the ages
Emerging stronger each season, “Awakening” leverages cutting-edge technology and breathtaking production design to craft an otherworldly experience. Whether you’re new to Las Vegas shows or a seasoned attendee, this is one performance that you won’t want to miss.
New Kids On The Block: Nostalgia trip
Taking us back to the flamboyant 80s, New Kids On The Block are set to revitalize their career with a special celebration. The group, comprising Danny Wood, Jordan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, and Jonathan Knight, will be engaging fans through various themed events, including roller rink parties echoing the vibe of their heyday.
An evergreen appeal
Their upcoming residency aptly named “The Right Stuff” spans several months, reminding fans why they fell in love with NKOTB in the first place. This event isn’t designed for retirement—it’s a testament to how musical legacies endure and thrive well beyond their original prime.
Mad Apple: Urban whimsical circus
In May 2022, Cirque du Soleil introduced “Mad Apple” to the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, swapping out the larger-than-life “Zumanity” for a more scaled-down yet equally charming production. Tackling themes central to New York City’s vitality, “Mad Apple” captures the essence of the city that never sleeps through acrobatics and theatrical storytelling.
The shift proved successful despite doubts about whether the smaller scale could capture the magic of Cirque’s bigger shows. Today, “Mad Apple” thrives as a testament to Cirque du Soleil’s adaptability and creative ingenuity.
With this myriad of top-tier entertainment options, Las Vegas truly remains the entertainment capital of the world. Each show brings something distinctive, ensuring that there’s always a reason to keep coming back for more dazzling experiences.
