Annual run/walk scheduled for Labor Day
Plus: Holmes Leaving Harrah's • Mac King Sticking Around • Be in the 'Beer' Movie • New Bingo at Cannery • 'Ballet Under the Stars'
Lots going on in our town so I'll get right to it. If you like to walk or run and you want to support some good causes, Cirque du Soleil will host its sixth annual Run Away with Cirque du Soleil 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk at the Henderson Pavilion on Labor Day, September 4.
You can register on race day at 6 a.m. (did I forget to mention you have to like getting up early?). The run and walk begin at 7:45. Runners and walkers can register online at www.active.com (search word: Cirque) or by calling Dawn Coraci at (702) 352-0164. Pre-registration entry fees are $25 for the 5K Run and $20 for the 1 Mile Fun Walk. All entrants will get a T-shirt and free raffle ticket for a chance to win one of six hotel, dinner and show packages to "LOVE," "KÀ," "O." "Mystère," "Zumanity" and "La Nouba" in Orlando, Fla. Not bad.
You'll also be entertained by Cirque performers and musicians. Massage therapy, face painting, circus play area for children and free food and beverages will be available. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age division. All proceeds will be donated to The Center for Independent Living, Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation, Street Teens and West Care -- community partners within the Cirque du Monde social circus program.
HOLMES LEAVING HARRAH'S
I had told you in an earlier column that Clint Holmes, who has been a Harrah's headliner for the past six years, will be performing his last show at the resort on Sept. 30. The singer says he will spend the next two years on his London play. He says if the play isn't a success, he'll "come back here and hopefully work often" or pursue acting. "Right now, I have to go and try this." Although we're sorry to see him go, we wish him luck. If you haven't seen his show, try to catch it before he leaves.
MAC KING STICKING AROUND
And while I'm talking about Harrah's, Mac King, star of "The Mac King Comedy Magic Show" at the resort, has announced that his contract has been extended for five more years. Good news for all of us, especially anyone with children who want to take in a Strip show that's suitable for all and one where you don't have to take out a second mortgage to afford the tickets. Tickets are only $19.95 plus tax.
A happy King said, "I'm pleased to extend my great run at Harrah's for five more years. To be able to continue performing at this amazing venue and make people laugh every day is a great feeling." He's also a very busy guy, launching a new toy line named after his syndicated comic strip, "Mac King's Magic in a Minute," as well as working on a new comic-like book that will be sold exclusively at Barnes & Noble throughout the country. This talented and very funny magician, performs Tuesday through Saturday at 1 and 3 p.m.
BE IN THE 'BEER' MOVIE
Want to be in a movie? You will get your chance when the cast of "Beer The Movie 2: Leaving Long Island" visits the Hogs & Heifers Saloon on Third Street downtown this Friday (Aug. 26). It all starts at 10 p.m., and even if you don't become a part of the movie, you'll still have a great time and there's no charge.
NEW BINGO AT CANNERY
The Cannery has opened its new 288-seat Bingo Room with eight sessions daily on even hours beginning at 8 a.m. Complimentary beverage service is available at every session and fresh pastries are served daily at the 8 a.m. session, so don't bother having breakfast before you go.
The game program features second- or third-chance coveralls at every session. Currently, the Bingo Room is running a $5,200 cash giveaway with cash drawings on Fridays at the noon and 8 p.m. sessions through September 8. Players will earn a drawing ticket for every session they play. Check for complete rules at the Bingo Room. The Bingo Room is part of the $45-million expansion at the resort, which includes a new sports book and an Italian restaurant that is due to open any day now.
'BALLET UNDER THE STARS'
Haven't had my Culture Corner for a while, so it's nice to have something to report. The Nevada Ballet Theatre is presenting "Ballet Under the Stars" on Saturday, Sept. 9, at 8 p.m. This is an annual affair at Hills Park, 9002 Hillpointe Road in Summerlin. This year, artistic director Bruce Steivel has planned a two-hour repertory program that includes "Gala Waltz," "Black Swan Pas de Deux," "Grand Pas Classique," "Fairy Doll," "Don Quixote Pas de Deux" and "Vegas the Early Years." The dancers are, in my opinion, some of the best in the country. The gates open at 6:30 p.m. and remember to bring a blanket. A bottle of wine wouldn't hurt either.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under and are available at the NBT's Summerlin Offices, 1651 Inner Circle, or by calling 702-243-2623. In addition, Nevada Public Radio is launching their Cultural Guide as part of the evening's celebration.
Good luck and I'll see you on the Strip. And don't forget to check out www.valleyblogs.com
If you have a question or a Las Vegas experience you would like to share with my readers, please e-mail me at lennylv@cox.net. Please include your full name and the city or town where you live.
