(Photos by Sandy Zimmerman unless indicated.)
There has always been a feeling of excitement as the 2 hour plus procession of show biz and film celebrities began arriving in their limousines for the Academy Awards, Las Vegas-Style. They were each met at the front door greeted by a man in kilts who brought them to the Brenden Theater lobby for the royal treatment.
There was a whirlwind of activity on the Red Carpet as the famous illusionist Lance Burton appeared.
Lance reminisced, “I have appeared in Las Vegas for 31 years, at the Tropicana Hotel for 9 years, the Hacienda Hotel 5 years, and Monte Carlo 14 years. Now I’m retired.
Many people ask, ‘Which was my favorite hotel?’ Well, it’s like asking parents to choose their favorite child.
The fun part of being a stage magician, you have to do everything- write, direct, produce, star and wear a lot of hats.”
Lance discussed the Academy Awards, “I’m not sure which films and actors are going to win. I feel sorry for one of my favorite actors Denzel Washington. He was brilliant in “Flight” and has long been due for an Oscar. What bad luck to be nominated the same year as our greatest actor Daniel Day-Lewis. Daniel is from another planet. I think he’s going to win Best Actor.
“Argo” should win best picture, I remember when that happened, I was a young boy. We didn’t know the whole story. I found it fascinating.”
Next, attractive Maren Wade, the star of “iCandy- The Show” (Planet Hollywood Hotel), walked down the Red Carpet. Maren explained, “”iCandy” is the Ultimate variety show with singing, dancing, comedy and acrobatics. Even though “iCandy” is sexy and sassy, it is still for everyone.”
Maren commented about the Academy Awards. “I feel “Argo” has such a compelling story line, it’s suspenseful, and Ben Affleck did a good job as Director. Everyone is surprised he was not nominated as director.”
Mark Shunock, in “Rock of Ages” (Venetian Resort), commented, “Rock of Ages” is a great 2 hour rock concert. We sing all of those 80’s anthems “Speed Wagon, “Journey”, “Styx”, you name it.
This is about a young boy who wants to be a rock star and a young girl looking to be an actress. They meet in Los Angeles, and we take you on this incredible rockin’ journey.”
Does Mark go to the movies?
Mark was enthusiastic. “I go to all the movies. Are you kidding me? We are so spoiled. I’m so lucky to be able to call myself a working actor and be part of this profession. This is our night, man. I love them all. I’m so excited because I am a big fan of “Argo” so I’m hopping “Argo” wins. “Argo” is a great picture. They did such a good job making “Les Miserables” such a beautiful musical. We have to root for them too.
I’d love to see Anne Hathaway win, she is so gorgeous and her voice is incredible.”
For information about other events, contact Variety, the Children’s Charity. www.onalv.org www.varietysn.org