There's only one reason to go to Las Vegas, right? Wrong! True, the gambling never stops in this city of twenty-four hour electric sunlight, but the entertainment doesn't end there. The hotels and casinos along the Strip (as Las Vegas Boulevard is called) also house some of the most scintillating stage shows on the planet. Chart-topping pop stars and big-name comedians are regular headliners, and major sporting events such as championship boxing matches attract star-studded crowds. But during your next trip to Sin City, don't forget to check out some of the spectacular productions that call Las Vegas their permanent home. Here's a rundown on several shows which you can see in – and only in – Las Vegas.
Blue Man Group: Bluephoria at the Venetian Hotel-Resort-Casino
If you've ever seen Blue Man Group, you know how hard it is to answer the question “What is it, exactly?” Your response might go, “Well, ummm…it's a group…of men…and they're…well…blue…” All true of course, but that doesn't begin to do justice to the experience. A trio of performers, who dress entirely in black and coat all visible skin, including the entirety of their bald heads, with electric blue grease paint, put on an exhilarating, hilarious show which overwhelms the senses and at times boggles the imagination. Blue Man productions are surprising multimedia endeavors involving physical comedy, rock music and percussion, video effects and--when I saw the Boston show-- high-speed guided marshmallows and exploding paint balls. Combine these ingredients and you've got performance art, slapstick, and social satire rolled into one incomparable and unforgettable performance.
Blue Man Groups also perform in New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin, and Toronto, but the Venetian's Bluephoria event, which opened October 10, 2005 and will run indefinitely, includes material developed exclusively for that unique venue. Hint – take a chance and buy seats in the “poncho section;” the ponchos are provided free of charge!
Cirque du Soleil: KÀ, Mystère, O, Zumanity
Cirque du Soleil means “Circus of the Sun,” but this is nothing like the big top you'll remember from your childhood. No elephants, tigers or tiny clown cars, Cirque du Soleil is a one-of-a-kind acrobatic troupe which uses surreal images involving intricate choreography, dazzling costumes, and stunning vocal performances to display the pure artistry and strength of its performers, as well as to explore some of the deeper mysteries and higher glories of life. Sound serious? Maybe at times, but the shows are fast-moving and thrilling, and viewers are enraptured by the jaw-dropping gymnastic feats. Cirque du Soleil has had a long history in Vegas, originally performing at the Mirage in the late 1980s. Now, four permanent Cirque du Soleil shows run concurrently. Each of the four productions has its own unique themes and mysteries to spark the imagination; see one and you'll feel drawn to the others.
The “Mystère” of Life
Cirque's first Vegas show, “Mystère,” is housed in a special theater at Treasure Island, but originated in a big top tent outside the Mirage. Its theme is the circle of life, and it features 75 performers to create a kaleidoscope effect of athleticism and artistry. The show is approximately 90 minutes long and includes acts such as Chinese Poles, Hand to Hand balancing, and Aerial High Bar.
“KÀ”: Imperial Adventure
A second show, “KÀ”, is one of the newest Cirque du Soleil productions and involves several elements, including puppetry and pyrotechnics, which are new to the troupe. Along with acrobatic performances and martial arts, “KÀ” tells the ancient story of royal children, twin brother and sister, who set out to undertake the trials and triumphs of their destiny. “KÀ” is staged in the KA Theatre at MGM Grand, a unique performance space created especially for this show.
The Ocean of “O”
By far the most elaborate of the Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas shows, “O” is an aquatic masterpiece performance. Much of the show takes place in the huge, deep blue pool created specifically for this Cirque du Soleil production at the world-famous, five-star luxury hotel Bellagio. “O” is a theatrical fantasy involving an international cast of character performers, acrobats, synchronized swimmers, and high-divers. Watch closely, you won't want to miss any of the magnificent performances in, on, and above water.
“Zumanity”: The Circus All Grown Up
Finally, “Zumanity, Another Side of Cirque du Soleil” is an adult venture, a provocative and exotic cabaret-style production. This show is pure Las Vegas, daring, erotic and challenging—at all times sensual and fun. You'll find “Zumanity” at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino. While the other Cirque du Soleil productions will appeal to all ages, see Zumanity with your lover. It is an 18 and older show which explores various perspectives of love; the acts range from suggestive to outright explicit.