Anderson to go Bonkerz when Excalibur run ends

Comedian Louie Anderson will become the new resident headliner at Palace Station's comedy club next fall, but the club will retain its Bonkerz management.

Anderson will close his "Larger than Life" show at the Excalibur on Aug. 1 and reopen Sept. 7 with the working title "Louie Anderson Goes Bonkerz."

The title will try to convey that the 250-seat club will continue with other programming when Anderson isn't there, and perhaps in later-evening shows as well, says Joe Sanfelippo, owner-operator of the Florida-based chain.

"I really think it's the best of both worlds," Sanfelippo says.

Anderson, 57, says he will perform a longform, autobiographical showcase -- "a cross between a Vegas act and a theatrical production" -- rather than preside over a multicomic format as Brad Garrett plans in a new venture at the Tropicana.

"It's a comedy show with a headliner, but there's a definite theme to it," Anderson says, adding that it will be "an all-ages, family-friendly show."

Sanfelippo says Palace Station's off-Strip location made it difficult to maintain the standard format of multiple comedians rotating weekly.

Much of the summer will feature a single headliner, Grandma Lee of "America's Got Talent" fame, who has increased tourist traffic for the club.

"If you're going to pull people off the Strip, you can't just have a comedy show, you've got to have a theme," Sanfelippo says.

Anderson will continue his "Stand-up Boot Camp" for aspiring comedians at the club, as well as offering it in other cities. It might be combined with comedy classes already offered at the club.

Contact reporter Mike Weatherford at mweatherford@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0288.