Get a ‘Life’

Listen up, all you Monty Python fans. "Monty Python's Spamalot," the hit show at Wynn Las Vegas, is hosting a one-night-only screening of "Monty Python's Life of Brian: The Immaculate Edition," in the Grail Theater at the resort on Thursday, Feb. 21. The night will feature a cocktail reception and a special appearance by "Spamalot" star John O'Hurley. It all kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with a reception in the lobby of the Grail Theater, where you can imbibe on complimentary cocktails and have the opportunity to meet O'Hurley. The film will be screened at 8 p.m. followed by complimentary admission to Tryst nightclub. Tickets are $30 (not a bad deal) each by calling (702) 952-5537 or visiting www.cinevegas.com, with proceeds going to Nevada Public Radio.

HIP, HOPPIN' AND STOMPIN'

Want to get your heart pumpin' in a good way? If so, you might want to visit the Las Vegas Athletic Club at 1725 N. Rainbow. Why? Because I said so. Okay, I didn't want to be curt, but I'm tired and cranky and would much rather be making love than writing this column, but I haven't found anyone who will pay me as much to make love as the Review-Journal pays me to write, albeit a paltry sum. Anyway, where was I? Ah, the workout.

The club and cast members from "Stomp Out Loud," who perform at Planet Hollywood, are joining forces to offer a new exercise class. It's called Hip, Hoppin' and Stompin' and is set to hot music and live drum accompaniment provided by "Stomp" cast members. It all takes place the first Wednesday of each month at 7:45 p.m. I don't want to put a damper on this but I think if you're going to join in, you should already be able to walk up one short flight of stairs without gasping for breath and feeling like you want to throw up. If you pass that test, then this sounds like great fun and a great workout.

'RAT PACK' DINNER SHOW

You need a scorecard these days keeping up with the changes in our town, what with new hotels or hotel expansions taking place and shows jumping from one venue to another. The latest move is by "The Rat Pack Is Back," which will leave Greek Isles at the end of this month after a five-year run to take up residence at the Plaza downtown on March 1. What's interesting about this is that you will have an option of buying a ticket for the show or purchasing a dinner/show ticket, with the dinner being served in the showroom. For those of you who don't remember "old Vegas," almost all of our shows featured dinner in the showroom. I'm sure al lot of people besides me miss that. I also miss having the option of taking in an early or late show. It almost seems obscene to go to a show in Las Vegas that starts at before 9 p.m.

LOCALS GET DEAL ON 'KA'

Here's a good deal. "Ka," the Cirque du Soleil show at MGM Grand -- and in my opinion, the best of all the Cirque shows -- is offering a locals discount that includes a backstage tour. The 50 percent discount offer runs through April 12, with the 5 p.m. tours offered to the first 50 people who request it on the three nights it's available during the promotional period. Take advantage of this. I've done a backstage tour and you'll be amazed at what it takes to present this show.

GET KIDS DANCING

Dancing, particularly ballroom-style dancing, is sweeping the country thanks to hit TV shows like "Dancing With The Stars." If you'd like your kids to jump on the bandwagon, Winchester Cultural Center is bringing the classic technique behind Mexican folkloric dance to the classroom during a 12-week program beginning Feb. 26. Classes are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. for children 6 to 12, and 7 to 8 p.m. for those 13 and older. The dance program is extensive and encompasses various dances from many different Mexican states. Students learn authentic folk dances as they prepare for a public performance held at the conclusion of the program's 12 weeks. Hey, nothing like putting them on the spot.

Leading the program is dancer and choreographer Citlali Reyes Castro, who has been teaching traditional Mexican dance to children and adults since 1990. Citlali began dancing at the age of 3 and has danced professionally for about 20 years. She graduated from Sinaloa's Folkloric Institute as an artistic activities instructor with a specialty in folkloric dance. Those interested in the program can call Winchester Cultural Center at 702-455-7340 or visit the Web site at www.co.clark.nv.us/parks/homepage.htm. The center is located at 3130 S. McLeod Dr. Cost is $60. Registration is available online at the Web site or at Winchester Cultural Center.

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 lennylasvegas@gmail.com Please include your full name and the city or town where you live.