When you think of Las Vegas, you think of Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli – just a few of the legends who have lit up Las Vegas. That tradition of attracting the world’s-best entertainers continues as contemporary superstars take to the stage for spectacular residencies, along with the very best impersonators.
Lady Gaga
If any proof were needed that Las Vegas can attract the biggest talent at work today, then take one look at Park MGM’s signing of Lady Gaga for a two-year residency. The performer has had four No 1 albums in a row, 150m single sales and a reputation for elaborate and eccentric shows. The Park Theater is relatively intimate, with 5,300 seats, but it possesses a state-of-the-art sound and visual system that will allow Lady Gaga to stretch her creative energies in what will be a specially-designed show. From December 2018.
Park Theater at Monte Carlo, 3770 S Las Vegas Blvd
Jennifer Lopez: All I Have
Jennifer Lopez has been wowing audiences with her all-singing, all-dancing show that pays homage to her Latin roots, as well as enjoying a healthy dose of traditional Vegas glamour. Alongside the band there are 14 dancers, glitzy costumes, special effects and a Swarovski crystal staircase in the mix. Running for more than an impressive two years, the show will close on 29 September 2018.
Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood, 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd
Purple Reign
The man himself may have passed away but Prince’s legend lives on in this widely acclaimed tribute show. Jason Tenner recreates the Purple One as he and his top-notch band run through live versions of the hits in what is by any reckoning a spectacular show. Dedicated fans will appreciate the inclusion of the Morris Day and Apollonia characters recreating the vibes of 1985 all over again.
Tropicana, 3801 S Las Vegas Blvd
Pitbull: Time of Our Lives
Cuban American superstar Pitbull is one of the world’s most successful artists, his party-inspired rap has seen him shift more than 5m albums and 60m singles and his tours sell out stadiums, he even performed at the opening ceremony of the 2014 Fifa World Cup opening ceremony – no wonder he’s also known as Mr Worldwide. He brings his high-energy Time of Our Lives show to the Axis at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino for 13 performances. Expect an amazing light show and a crowd enjoying the party. Recurring weekly on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 2-12 May.
Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood, 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd
Ricky Martin: All In
Ricky Martin’s All In show at the Park Theater at Monte Carlo is tailor-made for Vegas – helmed by ex-Cirque de Soleil director Jamie King, it is a high-energy performance that blends startling visuals with old-fashioned razzmatazz. For the 20-odd songs he trawls his back catalogue, including classics such as Livin’ la Vida Loca, Cup of Life and La Bomba, as well as performing new material.
Various dates in March, May, June.
Park Theater at Monte Carlo, 3770 S Las Vegas Blvd
ZZ Top
Rock & Roll Hall of Famers ZZ Top have been playing their brand of hard blues and rock for more than 50 years, selling more than 50m albums. Rightly considered one of the biggest bands in the world, they can be found in Las Vegas at the Venetian, where the “Little Ol’ Band From Texas” will play five shows from 20-28 April.
The Venetian Theatre, 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd
Celine Dion
The best-selling female artist in history is credited with kickstarting the modern explosion of artist residencies after her original tenure at the Colosseum in 2003. Her current blockbuster show, simply called Celine, has been running since 2011 and features a full orchestra, plus band, and specially-designed visuals. It has been seen by more than 2 million guests but ends 9 June.
The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd
Elvis Costello and the Imposters: Now/Not Now
The punk-turned-music-industry-treasure returns to the Strip for a mini-residency and brand new show that features old classics, ballads and soul rave-ups. The Imposters include original members of the Attractions (Pete Thomas and Steve Nieve), the band Costello had his initial burst of success with, some 40 years ago. Various dates 28 February to 10 March.
Wynn Encore, 3131 S Las Vegas Blvd
