VEGAS VIBES by Z.Z. Master magician and illusionist David Copperfield returns to MGM Grand’s intimate 740-seat Hollywood Theatre with his latest stage production show, An Intimate Evening Of Grand Illusion through September. David Copperfield, whom the New York Times calls "our era’s giant of magic," is touting An Intimate Evening Of Grand Illusion as his most spectacular stage show ever. During each performance, Copperfield transports himself and a member of the audience from the stage to a deserted island on the other side of the planet. Because the concept is so hard to believe, Copperfield takes proof during his journey. Items are randomly collected from audience members, clothing, mementos and signed and dated Polaroid photographs of the audience. An audience member is chosen to join him for the journey of a lifetime. Together, they vanish on a platform suspended over the heads of the audience. Within seconds, travel is complete and they are seen on a live satellite uplink at their chosen destination. Unbelievably, they are wearing the items of clothes, carrying the personal mementos and holding the signed photograph. LC William Michael Acosta, a 21 yr. old Marine on leave from Camp Lejuene finally gets to celebrate his birthday in style. Most 21 year olds plan to celebrate in LV but most are not a born Las Vegan with a celebrity Dad headlining in the City of Entertainment. Singer-Impressionist, Bill Acosta recently headlined at the FLAMINGO and the LUXOR for a 3yr. combined run. The Man of 1001 Voices has been working the Entertainment Capital of the World since 1970. William Michael Acosta, known as "Wild Bill" by his Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, turned 21 while in Iraq last summer. The Marine returns home to reunite with his sister Angela, 15 _ and Bill’s wife/entertainment-manager, Jeanne Bavarro. After a series of sold-put performances, Tony Bennett, the GOLDEN NUGGET’s "Ambassador of Cool," returns. The celebrated performer and twelve-time Grammy winner will perform his personal favorites from the "Great American Songbook," as well as selections from his latest CD, "The Art of Romance." Bennett’s series of exclusive Las Vegas performances at the GOLDEN NUGGET gives fans the extraordinary opportunity to see Bennett up-close-and personal. In 2004, Bennett signed a one-year deal as spokesperson for the GOLDEN NUGGET, and has been appearing in the hotel/casino’s advertising campaign, which launched January 2005…… Jazz crooner Matt Dusk returns to the GOLDEN NUGGET. Dusk made his Las Vegas debut in 2004 in their restaurant/lounge, ZAX. If you saw the show, "The Casino," you know there was controversy about Dusk and he left. Now he is back sing’ and swingin’ there again. Comedian David Brenner, who joined the LAS VEGAS HILTON as its resident comedian last year in its 300-seat Shimmer Cabaret has been extended through December 31, 2005. His observations on life and Las Vegas, as well as his topical humor, has generated an excitement that attracts new fans as well as repeat business. Brenner’s remarkable national career began with his debut on the "The Tonight Show," where he set the record for the most appearances of any guest on the show (158). In The Book of Lists, Brenner is noted as being the most frequent TV talk show guest of any entertainer in television’s history, Barry Manilow is wowing audiences at the HILTON. Recent backstage visitor was actor Jimmy Smits. Recent frontstage visitors were a local crew taping some of Manilow's songs for use in the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon. With space in Las Vegas becoming a premium, there is still a really big ranch with horses and the like at the Legends Ranch owned by the IMPERIAL PALACE’s Legends in Concert founder, John Stewart. (not the comedian). A celebrity Impersonator convention at the IMPERIAL PALACE brought worldwide talented impersonators to be seen by talent buyers, producers and agents. An afternoon show was dazzling and at night the huge ranch was the setting for a barbeque and Karaoke. So, when at the Ranch you think you are in the old West. However, you feel you are at the South Pacific on the Strip at the IMPERIAL PALACE’s Hawaiian Luau. The Luau features an Island Buffet, free Mai Tais, Pina Coladas, a Polynesian Revue with fabulous dancers, singers and musicians, a Fire-Knife Dance and Hula Lessons. What fun! Rick Thomas formerly at The TROPICANA is now at THE STARDUST wowing his audiences in his afternoon show. But, Dirk Arthur has brought his incredible magic show with his rare collection of exotic animals and gorgeous dancer assistants to replace Rick at the TROPICANA. With David Saxe of the ALADDIN’s "V" theatre producing his afternoon show, it is an absolutely must see show for the entire family. I originally saw Dirk Arthur when he had a spot in BALLY’s Jubilee show, but now with a full-fledged show that is amazing, Dirk Arthur is splendid. I love Sheena Easton. Grammy Award-winning performer is now at the ALADDIN, the future home of PLANET HOLLYWOOD Resort & Casino. Located in the space formerly known as Sinbad's Lounge, in additions to her wonderful voice, and a wonderful band, her patter is delightful. After SheenA’s four-week run, I’ve heard that cucchi-cucchi bombshell Charo will perform The RAMPART Casino presents A Salute to Bill Haley starring the Comets July 1 at 8 p.m., Preparing to rattle the Grand Ballroom are original Comets, Marshall Lytle, Johnny Grande, Dick Richards, Joey DAmbrosio and Franny Beecher. Bill Haley and the Comets created the sound other musicians began to imitate with such hits as "Rock Around The Clock," "See you later Alligator," "Shake Rattle and Roll" and "Mambo Rock." Las Vegas is losing two of its favorite performers to Palm Springs. Buddy Grecco and his lovely wife Lezlie Anders have sold their big ranch here along with their pigs, goats,etc. However, before they actually move they once again invited all The Cast Inc. members to their Ranch to celebrate the 2nd annual Memorial Daly BBQ. And it was a day to remember. Freddie Bell was at the BBQ and MC’d the entertainment. Steve Lippia also did the cooking. A great jazz quartet consisting of Chris Gordan on bassguitar, Bob Chindl on drums, Cocho Arby on keyboard and Jim Spoto on sax. performed while everyone was eating. Afterwards the non-stop entertainment started with Michaelina Bellamy, Patricia Welch, Linda November and Artie Schreck, Dennis Bono, Sonny King, Frankie Randall, Buddy Grecco and Freddie Bell (who whooped it up on keyboard and the song Almost Like Being in Love), Errol Desmond Le Blanc, Marc Govi, Sharon Sills, John Kaye (who sang Mustang Sally along with Kat Ray, Micaelina Bellamy, Freddie Bell and the entire audience). What a blast! Buddy and Lezlie, who are on the Board of TheCastInc., promised to come back to Las Vegas often, especially for Cast Inc. events. Good Luck Buddy and Lezlie. You will be missed. The RIO opened its new $39 million 60,000 square foot state-of-the-art meeting space expansion of the Pavilion Convention Center in a big way. Invitees enjoyed a lovely dinner with exceptional decorative ice figures and entertainment of RIO and HARRAH’s What a night and what a great additional place to hold conventions. GOLD COAST, Larry Taylor is closing as of Sept. 5. Just went to his last formal Black Tie Ball, which he presents twice a year. A very elegant evening for all. We wish Larry good luck in finding a new venue for his many fans to enjoy. . treasures by . Lon Bronson and his All-Star band have been energizing the live music scene for 15 years of performing. Known as Vegas’ longest-running band, having a loyal following including celebrities. Lon has finally released his first recorded effort, a CD called "Live from the GOLDEN NUGGET." At a release party sitting in with this great band were Tower of Power founding member, Stephen "Funky Doctor" Kupka and comedian, Drew Carey. The CD. is available online at www.LonBronson.com. You can also catch his show at the Golden Nugget. Mondays at 10 p.m. and Saturday at midnight. No cover, two-drink minimum. Celebrating 50 years in the gaming and entertainment industry, the RIVIERA’s Le Bistro Theatre converts into Syn City, The Nightclub, 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Featuring resident DJ’s Bryan Wyld and Dynamixx of the Syn City Mechanixx. .Have you ever been to the LAS VEGAS NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM? It is all aflutter as the national touring exhibit of "Feathered Dinosaurs is there now until October 30. One of the best pool parties is Tropical Heat at the LAS VEGAS HILTON, Wednesdays 5:30 pm -11 pm. for adults only. The cover charge ($15 for men/ $10 for women) Then, South Beach Sundays from 12pm-8pm. The cover charge ($20 for men/ $15 for women and together again Another show for the entire family in the V Theatre is The Ultimate Variety Show featuring Nathan Burton and Joe Trammel from "The Entertainer" on E. However, not for the kiddies, X, an erotic adventure, an adult show performs 10:30. Havana Night Club show is at THE STARDUST and now Tropical Passions has invaded the SAHARA nominated Gorgeous Russian guys are here in a sensual show called Candyman-From Russia With Love at downtown’s FITZGERALDS. "OOPS! That’s Life" will be presented on July 4 at the FAMILY MUSIC CENTER, 8125 W. Sahara Ste. 210 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m There will also be a dazzling fireworks display. Call: 878-2908. The World Series of Poker has started with a phenomenal amount of participants. Starting events are at the RIO, not at BINION’s. However, the final World Champion Event will be held at BINION’s. The World Series goes on until July 15. More about it in the next Vegas Vibes. The Stars are out in Vegas as once again the CineVegas Film Festival at PALMS starts just as my article deadline is here. More about that too next issue.