Las Vegas Nevada News Feed

Renowned comic Jason Alexander of the hit comedy sitcom “Seinfeld,” performs his uproarious show “The Donny Clay Experience” at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino beginning February 11.

Actor, Director and Producer Jason Alexander, star of the Broadway stage, motion pictures and most notably the award-winning actor who played “George Costanza” on “Seinfeld,” now portrays the character “Donny Clay,” the world’s fourth-best motivational speaker. “Donny Clay’s” world famous seminars entail hilarious evenings full of comedy, music, self-help and partial nudity all combined to leave you laughing as you discover the YOU inside of you.

“We are thrilled to have Jason, a true star of the stage, TV and film, perform this show here at Planet Hollywood,” said Co-CEO of BASE Entertainment, Scott Zeiger. “His talent is unparalleled and we’re pleased to have the opportunity to bring him to Las Vegas.”

The show is an interactive, partially improvised comedy romp where the audience is part of the show. Alexander, a Tony Award-winner for Best Actor in a Musical, employs song, video and comical moments that will inspire everyone into having a truly unforgettable evening. A mix of comedy, theater and some unintentionally life-enhancing thinking, Donny Clay will have you rolling in the aisles and jumping to your feet.

“I’m a huge fan of Jason’s long list of credits so you can certainly count on seeing me at the theater nightly,” said Robert Earl, co-chairman of Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

“I am so thrilled to be able to bring Donny Clay to the Las Vegas audience and I couldn’t be more grateful or delighted to be in such capable and experienced hands as I am with Scott Zeiger, BASE Entertainment and the Planet Hollywood property,” said Alexander. “I’ve had a blast touring around with the Donny Clay character and I think the Las Vegas audience is in for a unique, fun, funny experience.”

A comedy favorite, Alexander performs his limited engagement for a series of dates through March 2010: February 11-14, February 25-28, March 4-7 and March 11-14. All shows start at 7:00 p.m.

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Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino

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For the first time since her “America’s Got Talent” debut, fans have the opportunity to catch Grandma Lee in a headlining role, uncensored and uncut, at Bonkerz Comedy Club Jan. 7 through Jan. 9. Audience members also have the chance to be a part of Lee’s new DVD, “Grandma Lee Unleashed,” which is filming during all five of her shows at Bonkerz.

Most recently, Lee won the hearts of millions and made it all the way to the grand finale on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” making it her personal goal to help older people realize it’s never too late to follow your dreams and laugh. She also just finished appearing in “America’s Got Talent Live” hosted by Jerry Springer at Planet Hollywood. The sassy senior won the 2003 Las Vegas Comedy Festival at the MGM Grand and was chosen as a finalist for the 2004 season of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.” In fact, she is so popular with TV audiences that “Last Comic Standing” had her on as a special guest during three different seasons and chose her as a Top 10 Favorite Comic on the show.

The Oklahoma native was ironically inspired to take up comedy after the death of her husband and a series of odd jobs such as news reporter and directory assistance operator. In 1995, Lee lost her husband of 37 years to cancer and decided to attend a local comedy workshop to get her laughing again. Since then, this outrageous 75-year-old grandmother has electrified audiences all over the country with her off-color humor and spunk. Lee asserts that 99 percent of her humor is true, but frequently refers to a fictitious ex-husband, Duane, and a story involving David Hasselholf and thong underwear.

“Bonkerz has been working with Grandma Lee for many years and we’re so excited to give ‘America’s Got Talent’ fans this rare experience in such an intimate venue,” said Joe Sanfelippo, owner of Bonkerz Comedy Club.

About Bonkerz Comedy Club

Bonkerz Comedy Club presents five headliner shows weekly, with one on Thursday at 8 p.m. and two on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are $29.95 each. Palace Station hotel guests and locals with a valid Nevada ID receive a $10 discount. The club features a rotating schedule with a new headliner and feature act every week. Doors open one hour before showtime and guests must be 21 years and older. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Reward Center, The Fiestas and The Galleria Mall or by calling (702) 547-5300.

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Las Vegas—Legendary comedian Don Rickles, who has starred in Las Vegas theaters longer than any other performer in the history of the gambling mecca, has signed for a third consecutive year of performances with The Orleans Hotel and Casino.

The much-honored comedian will launch his 51st consecutive year as a Las Vegas headliner when he brings his one-of-a-kind humor to The Orleans Showroom for his first scheduled engagement February 20 and 21.

Rickles took his first step toward national fame in 1957 when Frank Sinatra wandered into the small Hollywood nightclub where Rickles was performing. The still-unknown Rickles eyed Sinatra and said, “I just saw your movie, The Pride and the Passion, and I want to tell you, the cannon’s acting was great. And, make yourself at home, Frank. Hit somebody.” Sinatra doubled up laughing and became one of Rickles’ biggest boosters among Hollywood celebrities. Rickles soon became the “in” comic among Hollywood stars, who flocked to his nightclub engagements to become the targets of his insults.

Since then, his unparalleled career has never missed a beat. While making his mark in movies, television, theater and recordings, Rickles has remained a master of nightclub comedy with a continuing love affair with live audiences.

“We’re proud of our long-standing relationship with Don and thrilled to have him with Boyd Gaming for more than ten years now,” said Terry Jenkins, Boyd Gaming Corporate Director of Entertainment. “He’s the consummate Las Vegas showroom star and funnier than ever.”

Rickles is enthusiastic about the opportunity to continue performing in the 827-seat Showroom, an intimate venue that allows entertainers to connect with their audiences.

“The Orleans Showroom always reminds me of the golden days in Las Vegas. It generates the warmth of that great era that featured the likes of Frank Sinatra,” said the comedian. “And, the accommodations at the hotel are just terrific. This year I understand they’ll be giving me a room that even has a sink and shower…”

In 2007, Rickles made his mark in the literary world with his memoir Rickles’ Book and has also won two Primetime Emmy Awards, including for Best Individual Performance in a Variety or Musical for the 2008 HBO special Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project.

Rickles will also appear at The Orleans Showroom October 16 and 17. Tickets start from $74.95, plus tax. Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 702.365.7075 or visiting www.orleanscasino.com.

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Mirage Headliner Releases Las Vegas-Inspired Single and Spices up Show.

This holiday season, Terry Fator gives audiences another reason to be jolly with “A Very Terry Christmas,” a holiday-themed version of Terry Fator & His Cast of Thousands at The Mirage. From November 27-December 26, Fator and his loveable cast will slip into the spirit of the season with special holiday additions to the critically acclaimed show.

“Christmas has always been one of my favorite times of year and I’m thrilled to be spending this Christmas performing in my new hometown,” says Fator. “The energy of classic Vegas was the inspiration for my new song and I’m so excited to add it to my special holiday shows and share it with the local community.”

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Terry Fator Tickets

Mirage Resort & Casino

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Texas native, author and platinum recording comedic sensation Bill Engvall returns to the Treasure Island Theatre December 3-4 and 10-11with his fun-poking, family-entertaining stand-up performance. Showtimes are 9 p.m.

What began as a shot in the dark at a Texas nightclub quickly launched funnyman Bill Engvall to comedic superstardom. The Galveston native originally aspired to be a teacher when he discovered his gift for making people laugh.

Fans and neophytes alike know Engvall from his half-hour sitcom, “The Bill Engvall Show, ” the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour” featuring fellow funny men Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy, and his 1996 “Here’s Your Sign” comedy act. Engvall also hosts one of the top-rated shows on CMT, “Country Fried Home Videos,” which features videos showing real Americans from the heartland.

After moving to Los Angeles, Engvall appeared in his first television show, “A Pair of Joker’s,” a Showtime special starring Rosie O’Donnell. He later hosted A&E’s “Evening at the Improv,” made several appearances on “The Tonight Show,” the “Late Show with David Letterman” and “Delta” starring Delta Burke. He later starred in the NBC series, “The Jeff Foxworthy Show,” where he played Foxworthy’s best friend.

Engvall has also starred in movies, including “The Blue Collar Comedy Tour, The Movie,” “Delta Farce,” with Larry the Cable Guy and D.J. Qualls, and “Bait Shop” with Billy Ray Cyrus.

Engvall’s comedy CDs, “Here’s Your Sign” (1996), “Dorkfish” (1998) and “15° Off Cool” (2007) all ranked No. 1 on Billboard’s Comedy Chart, with the former earning platinum status and reaching the Top 50 on Billboard’s Top 200 Album Chart.

In addition to his stand-up, Engvall also shot a blue-collar version of “Extreme Home Makeover” called “Mobile Home Disasters.” The television special presentation featured a deserving family and the work completed to transform their mobile home. He also collaborated with musician Travis Tritt on a music video titled, “Here’s Your Sign,” and has written several books including his autobiography, “Bill Engvall – Just A Guy.”

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Treasure Island Hotel and Casino

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Dining
The Sahara Hotel & Casino announces the re-opening of the distinguished Las Vegas dining establishment House of Lords Steakhouse during Labor Day Weekend. Old Vegas stars such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin were once regulars at the hottest steakhouse in town and now to celebrate its re-launch, the Sahara Hotel & Casino will feature new menu items at wallet-friendly prices. Guests can indulge in their favorite Surf & Turf pairings starting at just $36, a 21-Day Aged Prime Rib for $18, or even select the Affordable Elegance 4-Course tasting menu for only $29.95. House of Lords will now be open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and will showcase some new menu items alongside some signature dishes. Dine at the House of Lords where guests can experience superior dining in an old Vegas atmosphere.

Entertainment
With the recent debuts of Las Vegas entertainment veterans, The Comedy Stop and “The Magic & Tigers of Rick Thomas” to the property’s repertoire, the Sahara Hotel & Casino will now welcome its first tattoo shop in early October 2009. 3 Lions Tattoo has been a staple in the Las Vegas tattoo industry for many years with a location inside the Riviera Hotel & Casino. With its second location inside the Sahara Hotel & Casino, 3 Lions Tattoo will continue to pride itself on customer satisfaction and provide a comfortable atmosphere for all guests. The tattoo shop features some of the most talented tattoo artists in Las Vegas who specialize in customizing special designs at the guests’ requests. 3 Lions Tattoo will be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. with extended hours on the weekend and will be located in the retail space across from the front desk in the main lobby area.

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House of Lords Information

The Comedy Stop Tickets

The Magic & Tigers of Rick Thomas Tickets

Sahara Hotel and Casino

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Robin Williams, one of the most gifted actors and comedians of our time, returns to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Dec. 5. The show is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

Academy Award and GRAMMY® winner Robin Williams began his career as a stand-up comedian and has created a repertoire of indelible characters, first in the hit series “Mork & Mindy” and then in numerous film roles. In 1997, Williams received Academy and Screen Actors Guild awards for his performance in “Good Will Hunting,” having been previously nominated by the Academy for performances in “The Fisher King,” “Dead Poets Society” and “Good Morning Vietnam.”

Williams’ many film roles include blockbuster comedies such as “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “The Birdcage,” “Jumanji,” “Hook” and “Night at the Museum”; animated films including “Aladdin,” “Robots” and “Happy Feet”; and darker roles in “Insomnia” and “One Hour Photo.” He co-starred with Steve Martin on stage in “Waiting for Godot” directed by Mike Nichols. When he returned to stand-up after a 16-year absence, Williams starred in the 2002 HBO special “Live on Broadway” which was nominated for five Emmy awards.

Offstage, Williams has taken four trips to the Middle East with the USO to entertain the troops. He also has been affiliated with Comic Relief since its inception in 1986. To date, the overall efforts of this organization have raised more than $50 million.

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MGM Grand Hotel and Casino

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WHO: Cliff Lawrence, comedian and comedy writer, will teach the upcoming Bonkerz comedy class. Throughout his career, Lawrence has headlined in casinos in Las Vegas and Atlantic City as well as toured with legends such as Marty Allen, Rich Little and George Burns.

WHAT: The classes will let each comic focus on his or her own stand-up material and teach techniques to hone their skills, such as help with timing, delivery and working the crowd.

Bonkerz Comedy School is $275 per student for the four-week course and includes two complimentary tickets to each 8 p.m. Saturday show at Bonkerz Comedy Club during the course. To register for the class, please call (866) 414-2665 or email info@bonkerzcomedy.com. Students and guests must be 21 years and older.

WHEN: Every Saturday beginning Oct. 24
Class: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Show: 8 p.m.

WHERE: Bonkerz Comedy Club inside Palace Station 2411 W. Sahara Ave., just West of the I-15

About Bonkerz Comedy Club
Bonkerz Comedy Club presents five shows weekly, with one on Thursday at 8 p.m. and two on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are $29.95 each. Palace Station hotel guests and locals with a valid Nevada ID receive a $10 discount. The club features a rotating schedule with a new headliner and feature act every week. Doors open one hour before showtime and guests must be 21 years and older. Tickets can be purchased at any Station Casinos Reward Center, The Fiestas and The Galleria Mall or by calling (702) 547-5300

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The Comedy Stop announces the upcoming line up of stellar comedians that will perform in the legendary Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel & Casino. The up and coming performers will have the crowds crying with laughter as they perform at the iconic Comedy Stop stage. The schedule is*:

October 5-11

* Jon Dore
o Jon Dore has had audiences laughing in his native Canada with “The Jon Dore Television Show,” a sitcom mockumentary where Dore plays a pseudo-realistic version of himself, for two seasons on The Comedy Network. Dore is also known for his role as co-host on the popular “Canadian Idol.”
* Al Romas
o Seeing Al Romas live is a chance to experience a stand up comedian at the top of his game. With 16 years experience, Romas works comfortably whether performing at ESPN’s Espy Awards or on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. A veteran of numerous television appearances, including VH-1’s “Standup Spotlight” and Comedy Central’s “Short Attention Span Theater.” Romas headlines regularly in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
* Ruben Paul
o Ruben Paul is one the most unique and versatile comedians working today. His irrepressible energy, quick wit and vivid storytelling take audiences on a hilarious ride from beginning to end. Paul talks honestly about his life and has insightful observations that bring audiences together no matter their age, race, creed or color. He was chosen as one of the “Best of the Fest Comics” at HBO’s prestigious U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colo. and has toured extensively with Jamie Foxx, George Lopez, Cedric The Entertainer and has shared the stage with the Late Great Music Legend Barry White. Paul’s stand up appearances include: CBS’ “The Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” “Comics Unleashed,” “HBO Comedy Showcase,” NBC’s “Friday Nights,” and BET’s “Comic View” just to name a few. Ruben Paul is a star on the rise and a great performer that you definitely don’t want to miss.

October 12-18

* Jim Lauletta
o Not only is Boston-born comedian/actor Jim Lauletta one of the most popular headlining college and club in acts in New England, he’s a regular performer in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Lauletta’s national television credits include: HBO’s U.S. Comedy Arts Festival’s Best of the Fest, NBC, Comedy Central and Comcast’s Comedy Spotlight. After being featured on Comedy Central’s “Shorties Watchin’ Shorties,” Lauletta was invited to Denis Leary’s “Comics Come Home XI” in 2005 and wowed a crowd of more than 6,000 and his demand has soared ever since. Lauletta’s fast wit and interaction with the audience ensure that no two shows are exactly alike but do, however, include his signature closing impressions you have to see and hear to believe: Roy Scheider as Chief Brody in the film “JAWS” and Don Knotts as Batman.
* Tom Simmons
o Experiencing a Tom Simmons show is like watching your best friend entertain you with today’s top headlines. Always one to be relatable to the “everyman,” Simmons enjoys talking about politics, religion, minor absurdities of everyday life and how all these issues affect him and his family. As a new father, Simmons uses his “question everything” attitude to keep honest as he justifies radical views to his son. You’ve seen Simmons on BET’s “Comic View” numerous times as one of the few non-African-American comics because he is just that socially relatable to all audiences. His sincerity has given him critical acclaim in various publications “reactionary revolutionary with a good heart.” Simmons is one act you don’t want to miss as he has proven himself to the industry at comedy festivals like Montreal and Boston. He is a favorite comedian at top clubs all across the country and cuts from all three of his CDs are played regularly on both XM and Sirius.
* Tim Walkoe
o Tim Walkoe has been performing on stages across the country with his fast-paced style of comedy combining improvisation with music. Walkoe was a grand prize winner of ABC’s “America’s Funniest People” and has appeared in programs such as FOX’s “Murder in Small Town X” and networks such as A&E, Showtime, HBO and PBS.

October 19-25

* Patrick O’Donnell
o Patrick O’Donnell has been a comedian for more than 20 years. O’Donnell has been seen on television networks and programs such as Comedy Central, A&E’s “Comedy On The Road” and was a $10,000 winner on ABC’s “America’s Funniest People.” He has written jokes for Jay Leno and Jimmie “JJ” Walker to name a few. O’Donnell is a high-energy act who spices up his performance with his knack for impressions. Former presidents, movie and television stars could pop up anytime as searches for the humorous side of life. O’Donnell has worked all over the country and is a regular at The Comedy Stop in Atlantic City and Las Vegas. O’Donnell talks about today’s current events, his Catholic upbringing and the trials of a man who takes care of the kids, as well as marriage in general. He light-heartedly pokes fun at all of them. O’Donnell hits the stage with a smile and leaves the audience laughing.
* Chrissy Burns
o Chrissy Burns is a true road comic, performing in venues of all sizes across the country. Her comedy has audiences reeling with laughter as she regales them with stories of dieting, dating and true life experiences. Burns believes in using her comedy to break stereotypes and brings to the stage a funny, heartfelt message about the power of laughter. In addition to being a comedienne, Burns has been seen in the documentary “Be Funny,” has a CD entitled “Soul Music” that can be heard on XM Satellite Radio and her outrageously funny road story “Follow That” can be found in the Random House book “I Killed – True Stories of the Road from America’s Top Comics.”
* Steve Shaffer
o A wacky comedian with a flair for impressions, Shaffer is a favorite of comedy club audiences. The New York Post said “Shaffer is vibrantly creative” and the Boston Globe agreed Shaffer is a “prodigious talent.” Shaffer has appeared on “The Tonight Show,” “Comic Strip Live,” “An Evening at the Improv,” “Caroline’s Comedy Hour” and VH1’s “Stand-Up Spotlight.”

*Schedule is subject to change without notice.

The Comedy Stop performs at 9 p.m. seven nights a week inside the Congo Room at the Sahara Hotel & Casino. Guests must be 21 years of age or older.

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The Comedy Stop Tickets

Sahara Hotel and Casino

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The impressions will come fast and the laughter even faster when comedian/impressionist Frank Caliendo becomes a permanent headliner on the Las Vegas Strip with his new show at Monte Carlo beginning Monday, Oct. 12. Caliendo and Monte Carlo have signed an exclusive 10-year agreement that will make Caliendo a hilarious fixture at the resort for the next decade.

Known by millions for his dead-on impressions of such celebrities as Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, John Madden, former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, Dr. Phil, Jay Leno and dozens more, as well as myriad of television appearances and live stage performances, Caliendo’s new show will be a dynamic mix of high-energy comedy and fast-paced impressions enhanced by live music, video sketches and much more.

“I’m excited to call Monte Carlo my new home,” said Caliendo. “This is Vegas, so this show is going to be bigger and have a higher production value than traditional stand up. I’ve got a live band, we’ll have video segments and maybe even some guest appearances. It’s going to have all of the excitement of a TV show but it will be live on-stage and no two shows will be exactly alike.”

Anton Nikodemus, president & COO of Monte Carlo, said, “We are thrilled to have Frank Caliendo become part of our family. Frank is an incredible talent who we know will bring laughter and top-notch entertainment to Monte Carlo for years to come.”

Richard Sturm, MGM MIRAGE president of Sports and Entertainment, stated, “Frank Caliendo’s arrival will continue our tradition of hosting the top names in entertainment and there is no doubt Frank will thrill fans with his unique comedic style and unprecedented impressions.”

Caliendo has spent his career making people laugh and will now bring his memorable comedy to the Entertainment Capital of the World. A regular on America’s No. 1 pregame show, FOX NFL Sunday with Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long, Caliendo has garnered critical acclaim throughout his career with impressions of famous actors, politicians and broadcasters. A veteran of sketch comedy, Caliendo starred in his own television show, “Frank TV” on TBS, spent five years on “MadTV,” and has had numerous appearances on Comedy Central.

In addition to his regular tour schedule across the country, Caliendo has performed regularly on late-night talk shows including “The Late Show with David Letterman,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” and “Last Call with Carson Daly.”

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Frank Caliendo Tickets

Monte Carlo Resort & Casino

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