May 16, 2008
Recent information regarding Criss Angel’s new Cirque De Soleil show “Believe” which seem to suggest that he’ll be using live animals in his show has already begun to stir the ire of PETA. According to Lisa Wathne, captive exotic animal specialist for PETA: “We have regularly received complaints about Criss Angel using animals. It is very disturbing that Cirque would consider allowing animals in any of its shows. Cirque’s fantastic exhibitions and sold out shows are proof that the public has lost interest in performing animals and the inclusion of an animal act is only going to taint Cirque’s reputation.” A recent update from the LA Times Vegas reporter states: I have heard back from a spokesperson for Criss Angel who e-mails: “There are no live rabbits in this show.” Still, left unclear is if there will be any other animals used in the show. I’ve written back asking for clarification. But the message added: “All other details will be announced in the coming months or once we unveil the show.”
May 15, 2008
Nathan Burton premiered his new show at the Flamingo to a celebrity packed house. According to Robin Leach “A mob of magicians, a pack of prestidigitators, a wand of wizards and a crowd of conjurors showed up to lend their support and applause, and also proved Vegas is world headquarters for the abracadabra business.” Among the attendees were Teller, Emanuelle Lewis, whom Burton made to appear a’la Larry King, Criss Angell and his latest girlfriend Giselle, Lance Burton, Frank Marino, Gerry McCambridge, Mac King, professional poker player Antonio “The Magician” Esfandari and Flamingo President Don Marrandino. According to the Vegas Eye, “Following the special 8 p.m. show, guests were led by a team of Flamingo-clad showgirls to Voga Bistro where the restaurant served as the venue for Nathan’s special after party/birthday party (his birthday was May 9th) where the sexy girls from X Burlesque performed a special dance for Nathan and his guests.”
May 15, 2008
A labor dispute between Breet Daniels and the local union of stage hands has resulted in Brett Daniels decision to close his new show at the Sahara “Wohscigam.” Mike Weatherford reports in the Las Vegas Review Journal. “Last week, Daniels said the Sahara had passed along bills for overtime costs adding up to $33,000 per week from Local 720 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, though his contract called for advance notification and approval of any stagehand costs exceeding $8,000 per week.” ”My crew were hard workers and did a great job. They were very supportive,” Daniels said Wednesday. “My dispute is with the union stewards and the hotel.”
During the third episode of Celebracadabra, we said goodbye to the Hip Hop Houdini, Chris “Kid” Reid. Chris bragged about his coach for the show, Derek Hughes during our interview with him and now we have a chat to speak to his magical mentor. Actor, comedian & magician, Derek Hughes has been performing since he was in elementary school. Join us now for the latest in our Celebracadabra Conversations.
