Shows and Entertainment

Okay, so I know it has taken a while to get this portion up and believe me, it was hard to strategize exactly how I wanted to do this. Therefore, after much deliberation, I decided to share the shows I have seen and give you my take on them. I have tried my best to include a little history, a review, any special effects to take into account, and location [not to mention, the years I saw the show]. These are not all the shows in Las Vegas, obviously, and as I see more, I will be sure to post a personal review on the site. Enjoy!

Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular [AKA The Phantom of the Opera]: (2008, 2010)

For those of you who don't know, the original production was done by Andrew Lloyd Weber and started in London's West End before being relocated in Toronto and is the highest grossing entertainment-event of all time. Additionally, there was a film remake in 2004 starring Gerard Butler and Emma Rossi. However, the Las Vegas reenactment, which began in 2006, is probably one of the only shows where the name fits the review; it was SPECTACULAR! From beginning to end, my attention was focused on the performance. Best of all, the show kept me in "aw" the entire time. The cast is absolutely phenomenal and the special effects aren't far behind. The fact that the theatre was designed specifically for this show is evident from beginning to end and a big plus for the overall production coming together.

There are some minor special effects which take place in the show including a hazy moat scene, a firecracker burst, and not to mention, the infamous chandelier.

Located at the Venetian Hotel and Resort near the back of the casino, I would highly recommend seeing this performance whether you are a Phantom lover or just a first time Vegas tourist. It will leave you coming back for more, and if this is your first experience with the Phantom of the Opera, prepare to be blown away. That is, of course, if you can acquire tickets. Good luck. Phantom should not be missed

Rating: 5 out of 5
Website: Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular [Check out the TV spots and Reviews!!!]

The Blue Man Group: (2008, 2010)
If you are looking for comedy, music, and a straight up flawless performance every time, look no further than Blue Man Group. Beginning in 2001 [and still running] in New York City, Blue Man Group has been wowing audiences with some of the best displays of acting and musicianship. Las Vegas acquired the show starting in 2005 and haven't regretted it since. These guys really know how to get the crowd involved and kept me and my friends laughing the entire time. It was a great performance that I feel the whole family will love. Be sure to stick around in the lobby afterwords too since the entire cast [Blue Men and backing members] will be out to take photos during their meet and greet time.

In regards to special effects, there are some uses of strobe lights and the volume can be a little overpowering at times, but it's not too bad. Hey, it's based on musicianship. It's supposed to be kind of loud, right?

The performance can be found at the Venetian Hotel and Resort right down from V Bar. I have a very high appreciation for music and talent. If I don't feel I received a performance for my ticket price, good luck getting me back. As you can see though, I've seen it twice, and probably will again! Don't miss this show if you want a night of laughs and a good time.

Rating: 5 out of 5
Website: Blue Man Group - Las Vegas