Neverland in LV? It might happen

Picture a scenario that has Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch transplanted in Las Vegas, along with the creation of a Las Vegas-set Cirque du Soleil-style show featuring his music.

Could happen, "if all the planets align," said local dealmaker Jack Wishna.

Jackson's father, Joe, is supporting the idea of moving Neverland Ranch to Las Vegas, and Wishna, who presented the Cirque show idea to Michael, said he's still interested in making the latter a reality.

Michael's sister LaToya is "95 percent certain" the Neverland scenario is going to happen, according to KVBC-TV, Channel 3, entertainment reporter Alicia Jacobs, who spoke to LaToya on Tuesday.

Jacobs reported the comments during appearances Wednesday on CNN Headline News and Access Hollywood.

Wishna, who talked Michael Jackson into moving to Las Vegas from Ireland in late 2006, presented a number of comeback-related proposals to the entertainer, including a presentation to Cirque executives.

He also discussed with Jackson some Neverland Ranch scenarios, but Jackson firmly rejected a move back to the 29-acre site.

To disassemble and move Neverland Ranch to Las Vegas probably would require getting everybody on board, Wishna said Wednesday.

"It would have to be approved by the mother (Katherine Jackson), of course, the bank that holds the mortgage, Michael's estate and Colony Capital," said Wishna. Colony Capital, which has a major ownership position in the Las Vegas Hilton and Stations Casinos, paid more than $20 million for the bank note on Michael Jackson's behalf to keep the property from foreclosure a year ago.

"It could work," said Wishna, if Jackson were buried on the last Neverland Ranch site, which would be turned into a Graceland-like attraction. "You could have a museum involved and a Cirque-style show. I support the show, obviously."

Michael Jackson's sister Rebbie and brother Randy live in Las Vegas, along with Joe Jackson.

TABLE SETTINGS

Khotan, the new Pan-Asiatic eatery that replaced Social House at Treasure Island, opened Monday with many holdover staffers from the Pure Management Group days. ... Geno Ferraro is opening another Ferraro's, this one in the former Rainbow Grill space across from the Hard Rock Hotel. Look for a December opening. ... La Madonna, a Summerlin hot spot that became a favorite of Bette Midler, closed Saturday after 21/2 years. Owner George Harris said being at the epicenter of the foreclosure earthquake cost him half of his customer base. Plus he couldn't renegotiate a satisfactory lease. Harris is moving his avant-garde Mexican menu to the World Market Center and reopening under the name Mundo: A Culinary Hautespot. He's opening during the Sept. 14-17 furniture convention, when 50,000 buyers pour into town. ... Daddy Mac's, 2920 N. Green Valley Parkway, opened last month in Henderson. It features bar food and an Italian menu. It is operated by Doug McDonald, former bartender at Piero's Italian Cuisine and grandson of real estate developer Richard "Mac" MacDonald and Frances. ... The Tillerman, a local icon for seafood lovers for decades at 2245 E. Flamingo Road, has been under new ownership since July.

THE SCENE AND HEARD

Nick Cannon, host of NBC's "America's Got Talent," announced Wednesday that top talent from the variety show will begin a 10-week run in October at Planet Hollywood. It will be held before "Peepshow" in the same theater.

SIGHTINGS

Kid Rock, in the crowd at the premiere of "The Goods" at Planet Hollywood. ... Will Ferrell, strolling on stage with a cell in his ear during introductions before "The Goods" premiere. ... At Midler's "The Showgirl Must Go On" (Caesars Palace) on Tuesday: Lily Tomlin and Broadway and TV star Kristen Chenoweth, in separate parties. ... Joining "Voices" stars Lani Misalucha and Earl Turner on stage Monday at the Hilton: Arnel Pineda, lead singer of Journey. In the audience: Thelma Houston of "Don't Leave Me This Way" fame and Grammy-award winner Larry Hart.

THE PUNCH LINE

"During her performance (at the Teen Choice Awards), Miley wore short shorts, a tank top and biker boots and said, 'This represents where I come from.' Apparently, Miley Cyrus comes from Britney Spears' house." -- late-night TV host Jimmy Fallon

Norm Clarke can be reached at (702) 383-0244 or norm@reviewjournal.com. Find additional sightings and more online at www.normclarke.com.