A24 and the writing/directing team Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert who gave us the wonderfully bizarre Swiss Army Man deliver one of the most unique pieces of cinema with Everything Everywhere All At Once, a movie that dares to make you feel if you don’t see hot dog fingers in Dr. Strange into the Multiverse of Madness you will be sorely disappointed. This A24 film touches upon the multiverse: multiple universes that have different versions of ourselves, how we conduct our lives and how it affects our future and those affected by our actions. This is not just a sci-fi action fantasy, it is a profound and funny cinematic experience.
Michelle Yeoh, most recently known for Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Crazy Rich Asians, plays the middle-aged Chinese-American, Evelyn Wang, a laundromat owner, harried wife, mother and daughter that is about to face a dreaded IRS inspector over discrepancies in taxes regarding her business. She’s also dealing with a whiny husband, a father stuck in the old ways, and trying to hide her daughter’s sexuality from her father. This poor woman has so much to juggle, to suddenly throw in a visitor from a multiverse via her husband’s body is too much for her to bear. Did I mention she also has a party to prepare for and her daughter has surprised her by bringing her girlfriend along?
Yes, sounds like a whole hell of a lot going on from the start, and you’re right. You can’t help but wonder if we’re going to have a chance to catch our breath. But, the power and brilliance of Michelle Yeah’s performance keeps us captivated as she tries to keep her wits about her while dealing with her personal problems and is suddenly told that she is the answer to solving the problem of the multiverse. Does it sound silly? Absolutely. Pure fun and silliness abound. It’s the wackiness of the Monty Python crossed with Kung Fu Hustle and The Matrix.
Evelyn scrambles to prepare herself for her dreaded IRS meeting. After some brief chaos they finally meet with the inspector, a senior citizen, Deirdre Beaubeirdra, played by an absolutely hysterically funny and frumpy Jamie Lee Curtis. The woman is ruthless and has no patience for Evelyn and her meek husband, Waymond.
The meeting is downhill from the start when suddenly Waymond appears to change in demeanor. He’s not the man Evelyn has known for years. He tries to tell her that she is the one he has been searching for and rapidly tells her what to do because he is another form of Waymond from an “Alphaverse.” This is all explained as everyone else appears to be briefly frozen in time. He quickly relays his situation before they are thrown back into the timeline.
This sounds as ridiculous to us as it does to Evelyn which makes the situation all the more enjoyable. Alphaverse Waymond tells Evelyn about the multitude of universes merely created by choices that are made. He relates that her counterpart created “verse-jumping” technology that allowed people the skills, memories, and body of their parallel universe counterparts by fulfilling certain conditions. Confusing? Yes, at times, but it all seems to come magnificently together in the end.
Everything Everywhere All At Once is a perfect example of cinema of the absurd. It is also touching, brilliantly acted and goes as far as to answer some of the most difficult questions about life in general while making us laugh at the same time. This is a far bigger production than the writing/directing team’s last film and it shows. Yet all the martial arts, special effects, and outrageous costumes do not overwhelm the story and the heart of this film.
In 2020, Spyglass Media Group acquired the rights to the Scream franchise after the Harvey Weinstein debacle. Writers James Vanderbilt (Zodiac, The Amazing Spider-Man) and Guy Busick (Ready or Not, Castle Rock) went to work on what was going to be a reboot of the franchise. Enter the directing team of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (Ready or Not, VHS – Radio Silence) and somewhere along the way the fifth installment of the Scream franchise was to be both sequel and reboot introducing several new characters while placing the original stars as more of a supporting cast. The team was also determined to honor both the original writer Kevin Williamson and the director of the entire franchise Wes Craven. They worked their hardest to breathe new life into Scream, perhaps too hard.
The film is more of a fanboy homage rather than something new and exciting which David Gordon Green did with 2018’s Halloween. This new stab (pun intended) at the Scream franchise is so immersed in its meta universe that it’s hard to rev up the suspense or enjoy the new characters, that pale in comparison to the original lot. It’s fun to watch and anticipate the next kill and who the new killer or killers are, but there’s too much wink, wink going on. It’s more like a funhouse ride than a thrilling roller coaster. Also, it does not help to see the attempt of anti-aging of Courteney Cox who is very hard to watch while Neve Campbell and David Arquette have taken to gracefully growing into their mature selves.
Once again, a young woman is terrorized in her home with a phone call. The difference being the addition of cell phones, home security, and texting. What is actually missing that the writers and directors don’t get or give us is a well-known actress being killed in the beginning of the film. What Wes Craven did in the original with Drew Barrymore shocked the audience. That first murder had us at the edge of our seats because it was Drew freckin’ Barrymore, our little Firestarter, our Gertie from E.T. That shocker was nearly every bit of a surprise as star Janet Leigh getting knifed while taking a shower in Psycho.
So, now we are not as invested as we would like to be and it feels as if it’s going to be by-the-numbers Scream with Ghost Face once again satirizing the slasher genre. The only thing new is the idea that our new victims are related to killers or victims from the franchise. It’s almost as if the filmmakers are propping up the franchise to gear up again for another series of sequels. The big difference, few of the new cast can measure up to the originals with the exceptions of Jack Quaid (Prime’s The Boys, Tragedy Girls) and Jenna Ortega (Netflix’s The Babysitter, Jane the Virgin).
Is it funny and scary like previous Screams? At times. Bringing back some of the original cast feels unnecessary. They feel shoehorned in. The only one that really stands out is David Arquette’s Dewey. The weight of the world is heavy on his shoulders and he has a true sense of dread of what is to come. Also, a tough scene between him and Courteney Cox who in real life broke up comes across like art imitating life. It may be the one true original moment in the film.
Does it make my PIC of the week? Not quite. Is it worth a watch? Sure, if you’re hungry for another Scream. The film is like junk food for the horror crowd and could generate a new audience for those uninitiated to the franchise.
Now, as far as the UHD 4K/Dolby Vision picture goes, the image conjured up by Paramount is reference quality. The attention to detail and clarity is impressive as hell. Nothing is missing in the night shots or while shrouded in darkness. Both the opening scene and the final scene in the original murder house are dynamic. The only drawback is the detail to Courteney Cox’s face. I’m not trying to be mean. Whatever she has done to herself whether it be botox or plastic surgery, it is a sad deterrent to her performance because it is so obvious.
Paramount, what happened to the Dolby Atmos audio track? The studio missed the boat on this one. Not sure why, but there is a notable lossless DTS-HD MA 7.1 audio mix that seizes all the horror high points. Cringing knife stabs, door slams, creepy noises in the house all are stand outs. Actually, the audio track is better than the movie itself. It will have you jumping off your couch when you least expect it.
Now for the real disappointment, Paramount gives us less than a half hour of special features. What is available is the notable love and respect for the franchise and Wes Craven. What’s left is an entertaining audio commentary by the writer/producers, directors, and executive producer along with…
– Deleted Scenes
– New Blood – Original film’s success and legacy. Introduction to new characters, the role of modern technology in the film, and the film’s connections to the original.
– Bloodlines – Connections between new Scream and the original.
– In the Shadow of the Master – A look back at Wes Craven’s legacy.
– Scream (1996) Trailer
Thanks once again for the newest calendar from AEG for Las Vegas Shows. Don’t forget to visit some of our state’s other activities such as the winery and racetrack in Pahrump—a one-hour drive, or the river and concert hall in Laughlin, just 90 minutes.
Be sure and see the Hoover Dam; if you are into cars and unique museums then try Nostalgia Street Rods, the brand new Particle Ink show in downtown Las Vegas, or Illuminarium right next to Area 15 off Desert Inn.
Check out Raiding the Rock Vault at the Rio, or Queens of Rock at Mosaic Theater just north of MGM. Dueling Pianos at the V theater in Planet Hollywood, the Avengers or Kevin Lepine’s Hypnosis Unleashed downtown at the Four Queens at 9 p.m. “Marriage Can Be Murder” is a great place to have dinner and a murder mystery show at The Orleans. The new National Geographic Rarely Seenand The Cabinet of Curiosities Lounge in the shopping mall at Bally’s, or Reckless in Vegas at the Sahara.
One of the absolute best new shows in town is Rouge at The Strat, definitely for an adult audience or Extravaganza at Ballys, or WOW! at the Rio. Jen Kramer Magic is a great afternoon show on Sat or Sun at 3 p.m. at The Westgate or 5:30 on Fridays, and never miss Banachek the World’s Greatest Mind Reader for Mind Games Live at 4 p.m. at the Strat.
UPCOMING SHOWS
Jun 15-25: Luke Bryan: VEGAS at Resorts World Theatre
Jun 17: Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
Jun 18: Russell Peters: Act Your Age World Tour at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jun 18: Chris Isaak with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Jun 23: Kenny Loggins – Still Alright: An Intimate Evening of Stories and Songs at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jun 24: Los Dos Carnales Tour 2022 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Jun 24-25: Steve Martin & Martin Short – You Won’t Believe What They Look Like Today! with very special guests Jeff Babko and Alison Brown & The Fair Weather Friends at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jun 25: Primus – A Tribute To Kings with the Black Angels, performing Rush’s Classic “A Farewell to Kings” at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Jun 28: Justin Bieber – Justice World Tour at T-Mobile Arena – Rescheduled from February 20!
Jul 2-3: Lionel Richie – Back To Las Vegas! at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 8-9: Chris Tucker at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 15: Corrine Bailey Rae at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 15: Sal Vulcano at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Jul 15-23: Journey with Symphony Orchestra at Resorts World Theatre
Jul 16: Demetri Martin: I Feel Funny Tour at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 22: An Evening With Brian McKnight at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 22: The Shins Oh, Inverted World The 21st Birthday Tour with special guest Joseph at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Jul 23: David Gray – White Ladder: The 20th Anniversary Tour at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 27, 29, & 30: Maxwell – The Night Tour at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Jul 29: Leon Bridges: The Boundless Tour with special guest Little Dragon at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Jul 29-30: Katy Perry: PLAY at Resorts World Theatre
Jul 30: Amanda Miguel Siempre Te Amare Tour 2022 with Ana Victoria Verdaguer
Aug 3-13: Katy Perry: PLAY at Resorts World Theatre
Aug 5-6, 12-13, 19-20 (rescheduled Apr 1-2, 2022 dates): Lionel Richie – Back To Las Vegas! at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Aug 5: Father John Misty with Suki Waterhouse at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Aug 12: Third Eye Blind: Summer Gods Tour 2022 with special guests Taking Back Sunday & Hockey Dad at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Aug 19: Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats with special guest Cory Wong at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Aug 25: Rockzilla Tour with Papa Roach, Falling in Reverse, Hollywood Undead, and Bad Wolves at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Aug 26-27: Jim Gaffigan: The Fun Tour at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Aug 31-Sep 4: Luke Bryan: VEGAS at Resorts World Theatre
Sep 1 & 3: DURAN DURAN – FUTURE PAST at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas – Limited Tickets!
Sep 2: Nikki Glaser: One Night with Nikki Glaser! at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Sep 2: Deon Cole – Colelogy Tour at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Sep 8: Ben Platt with special guest Aly & AJ – The Reverie Tour at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas – Rescheduled from April 2!
Sep 11: Il Divo at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Sep 13: Interpol + Spoon: Lights, Camera, Factions Tourwith The Goon Sax at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Sep 16: Pancho Barraza at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Sep 16-17: Enrique Iglesias with special guest Los Tres Tristes Tigres at Resorts World Theatre
Sep 17: Bronco at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Sep 18: Staind at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Sep 25: Flogging Molly & The Interrupters with Tiger Army at Mandalay Bay Beach
Sep 30-Oct 1: David Blaine LIVE at Resorts World Theatre
Oct 1: Roger Waters – This Is Not A Drill at T-Mobile Arena
Oct 1: Grupo Intocable at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Oct 5-22: Katy Perry: PLAY at Resorts World Theatre – 8more shows added!
Oct 7: Tom Jones at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas–Limited Tickets!
Oct 9: DPR – Regime World Tour 2022 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Oct 12, 14-15, 19, 21-22: Lionel Richie – Back To Las Vegas! at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas
Oct 14: Karol G – $trip Love Tour with special guest AGUDELO888 at T-Mobile Arena
Oct 22: Quebradita Time Tour 2022 – Banda Machos at Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Oct 28-29: David Blaine LIVE at Resorts World Theatre
Nov 9-19: John Fogerty – Playing His Creedence Clearwater Revival and Solo Hits at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas – Rescheduled from February 23-March 5!
Nov 12: Deck the Halls with Disney ft DCappella at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
Nov 12: Los Tigres del Norte at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Nov 19: Whiskey Myers “Tornillo” 2022 Tour with special guest Read Southall Band at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Dec 16: Måneskin at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Dec 16-17: David Blaine LIVE at Resorts World Theatre
Feb 11, 2023: Los Temerarios at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
I attended Marriage Can Be Murder last night, Las Vegas’ longest-running fully-interactive dinner theater experience, which is celebrating its 22nd year. It was a ticket broker night and we were all having a great time with the pre-performance champagne.
Compliments go out to Vegas Vibe for putting on another great event, which included a raffle and plenty of drinks. Always pick up a copy of this free magazine when you are in Las Vegas.
“Our 22nd year is turning out to be Marriage can be Murder’s best year yet,” said co-creator Jayne Post. “We just announced our exciting new residency at ‘The Venue’ inside The Orleans Hotel and Casino and we couldn’t be more thrilled about the show’s ongoing success.”
A Las Vegas entertainment staple, Eric and Jayne Post’s Marriage Can Be Murder is an interactive comedy-murder mystery that includes a three-course dinner served alongside the continuous performance of actors who are hidden among the audience. Dinner includes salad and bread, chicken and steak along with two sides and a dessert. The highly immersive presentation treats audiences to a hilarious and engrossing evening, with attendees serving as participants in a whodunit rife with questionable alibis, unusual suspects, and shocking revelations. During this performance there are four “murders” which you are trying to solve.
“The Venue” includes multiple stages around the space to keep guests deeply engaged and entertained throughout the evening. The plot, theme and actors change every three months, keeping the show fresh for returning guests eager to solve the mystery anew. This is probably my sixth time attending over the years, and every “plot” has been great.
“As a costar and a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef, I’m able to ensure that all aspects of the dinner theater experience meet the high standard Las Vegas visitors expect from Marriage Can Be Murder,” said co-creator Eric Post. “We’re Vegas’ longest-running interactive dinner show because we strive to exceed the expectations of audiences and consistently deliver a presentation that’s fun, original, engaging, and gastronomically delectable.”
Presented by Ivory Star Productions, aka John Bentham, Marriage Can Be Murder performs Thursday through Sunday.
The lobby and bar area open at 6 p.m. where you can enjoy a cocktail before the show. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for seating and the start of salad service. The show starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. and lasts for two hours with two breaks.
Presenting a variety of shows and events, Ivory Star Productions are leaders in the entertainment field with strong insight into the Las Vegas and tourist market. Offering a fresh entertainment perspective from the stages of Las Vegas to around the world, Ivory Star Productions lives and breathes all things entertainment. Led by award-winning producer John Bentham, the Ivory Star Productions team delivers boutique show alternatives, and large-scale events, not only from the stages of Las Vegas but to worldwide productions. Current shows in Las Vegas include Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, comedy magician Farrell Dillon at Bally’s, Tape Face at Harrah’s, Laughternoon with Adam London at the Orleans and now Friends the Musical also in the Orleans.
Organization to Guide Single Mothers and Families Toward
Breaking Cycles of Poverty and Welfare Dependency
RW Jones, also known as “The Welfare Escape Artist,” teaches low-income families how to protect and grow their income, while receiving various social services benefits (i.e., Subsidized Housing, SNAP, Medicaid, etc.). Jones recently secured more than $1.25 million dollars in Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Grants during 2017 to help families remove barriers and achieve self-sufficiency.
A former chair of a public housing authority board of commission, a housing authority staff, and a welfare mother herself, RW Jones is the “Go-To” Subject Matter Expert on all things Resident Services, Program Development, Leadership, Policy, and Self Sufficiency.
With a journey as remarkable as her mission, Jones is creating sustainable solutions to the poverty crisis that enable and empower single mothers and families to BE the change.
Tapping into The Brillionaire Mindset
As a single mom with four children on welfare, struggling to become financially independent, Jones has firsthand knowledge about maneuvering social services, child support, court, and baby daddy drama—but it wasn’t easy. Like many of today’s public housing residents, she was penalized for wanting to break free from the merciless welfare system that relentlessly pushed her 10 steps backward through policies, rules, and program requirements.
On the verge of a nervous breakdown, harming my 4 children, and committing suicide, I fell to my knees and prayed ONE prayer! I asked God to get me out of this hell hole in my ‘right mind’ and I promised that I would come back and help others like me! Today, I stand FREE on the other side, and in keeping with my promise, I want to help you get there too. I want to help teach you how to leverage your benefits, increase your household ‘income,’ and most importantly, help you structure your vision. The Brillionaire is You!” – RW Jones
The unfortunate reality is that low-income moms who receive government assistance are penalized for working. As soon as a mom enters or returns to the workforce, the benefits she depends on to support her family (i.e., food, healthcare, childcare, formula for babies, and housing) are drastically cut, or lost altogether, leaving her no room to live. This situation leaves these moms stuck at the bottom, incentivized to stay home and do nothing while receiving more money than if they were employed.
The Brillionaires Mindset is an unshakeable, unstoppable, enduring belief and understanding that despite what it looks like you are not your circumstances.
Research shows that Child Support was correlated to welfare dependency. They could predict how long a mom would stay on welfare by the amount of child support she received, and so it is virtually impossible to move One Million Moms OFF Welfare without supporting the needs of fathers. Fathers (especially low-income) fathers need just as much support as women receive.
From Consulting services, Published Books, and Podcasts to Workshops designed to guide Agencies and Residents, the collection of Brillionaire resources available offer tangible, reasonable, and sustainable solutions.
Pursuit of Happiness, Liberty, and Justice for AllPh
Jones’ mission extends with all resources possible and available to achieve real change for each family. She is the President and Founder of Can I Live, Inc. – a 501(c)(3) national public housing tenants association dedicated to reducing dependency on government subsidies for HUD-assisted families.
“Our mission is to advance affordable housing, economic inclusion, and personal responsibility through advocacy, community and civic engagement, and education. We believe that all Americans are created equal and possessed of inalienable rights to life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, and to justice under the law. Yet the entitlements provided to people living at or below poverty are structured to keep them poor while entitlements offered to wealthier Americans and corporations assist in wealth creation and enhanced prosperity.” – RW Jones
Can I Live believes that all Americans are created equal and possess the inalienable rights to life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness—and justice under the law. Unfortunately, many of the entitlement programs provided to millions of families living at or below poverty are structured in a way that keeps them trapped in a cycle of dependence.
The ultimate mission is to provide a proven, repeatable blueprint to break free from government dependency in order to start building a sustainable lifestyle of freedom and independence.
If not stopped, this vicious cycle of poverty will continue for generations to come. Criminal activity induced by poverty will rise, mental health depression will increase, and toxic and strained relationships will remain stagnant—which means, teenage pregnancy, single-parent households, fatherless homes, juvenile delinquency, mass incarceration, etc.
National Scavenger Hunt
The WEALTHFAIR Tour is a “National Scavenger Hunt” to locate the $18.9 billion in federal opportunities for low-income people through HUD’s Section 3 program. Over the course of this three-year WEALTHFAIR Tour, they will visit the poorest public housing communities in 300 of America’s most prosperous cities. Ultimately, the Tour centers on Reigniting Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Programs, Establishing & Re-establishing New Resident Councils, and Advocating for Policy Change.
“If we can put a man on the moon, certainly we can eliminate poverty!” – RW Jones
Powered by RADAR, the engine behind the tour aims to strengthen and equip resident councils with the necessary skills required to represent the interest of their respective communities. The RADAR Program encompasses the understanding of HUD regulations, and how they apply to help community leaders access grant funding, fundraise, conduct effective meetings, resolve conflicts as well as negotiate an equity stake in their upcoming redevelopment deals. With current federal housing being privatized, and low-income residents being displaced by large numbers, this initiative is more than timely.
Read More, Achieve More
Get Your Hands Off My Butt: The Hands On-Guide to Avoiding the Welfare System is a very powerful book that offers young moms the fuel to stay the course. This book is designed to reach all women exactly where they are and guide them to where they want to be in life personally and professionally.
From teenagers to 40 plus, this book should motivate women to rise above their circumstances, stereotypes, and stigmas and invest in their number one asset–themselves! This valuable book was written to provide both prevention and intervention strategies for youth and young adults who struggle with poverty and its effects.
Get Your Hands Out My Pocket: An Informative & Relevant Book to Avoiding the Child Support System is a relevant book to help men become better fathers, and parent partners, and protect them from the pitfalls of a brutal and merciless child support system. It encourages and teaches young men how to avoid becoming fathers prematurely and prepares them to be higher-income earners and providers for their families.
The book also offers ideas to elevate to the next level of fatherhood, while navigating through the challenges that come with child support.
Best of all, proceeds go towards canceling Child Support Debt for Active Fathers.
Welcome to summer! It’s the time of year for letting loose with our favorite summer classics and all the new music that takes us somewhere else, even if we never set a tire on the road. Throughout the season each year, I find myself playing for a variety of crowds of all ages. And not just at pool parties – sporting events, parking lot parties, family reunions, and car shows are just a tiny sampling of summer events where music plays a crucial role in setting the tone and feel of the atmosphere.
This list dances through the summers of the 1970sup to recent releases for2022. From relaxing wind-downs to pumped-up party tracks to melodic sound waves, uncover a sampling of over 50 years of warm weather feels to get your own seasonal playlists started. Check out the link to the full Audioprism YouTube playlist and follow the vibes through time on a musical journey during all your summer activities!
Lizzo – About Damn Time Cupid – Take The Party Outside
Pitbull ft Zac Brown – Can’t Stop Us Now Jon Batiste – Freedom
As always, there is so much music out there I can’t even begun to think I have scratched the surface, but one thing is for sure – I will never stop diving deep into all the musical offerings that come my way! If you enjoyed this list, be sure to check out my St. Patrick’s Day,4th of July, or Valentine’s Day articles for more special music insights. Plus, find and follow me on Mixcloud to access DJ mixes recorded live at events or for special online streams!
Vanessa Hundley aka DJ Audioprism isowner of Audioprism Entertainment,is a full time DJ/VJ/KJ/MC, Web and TV Personality, and Wonder Woman who incorporates her love of music and everything entertainment into all facets of her life. She resides in Atlanta, GA, with her amazing daughter, fabulous partner and a variety of fuzzy friends intent on taking over the world one clump of fur at a time. Follow her on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Mixcloud for everything
If you are in Las Vegas over Father’s Day, here are some great things to do. Thank you to the Vox Agency for putting them all together.
National Pride Month Slider Trio Available at The Beast by Todd English.
(Photo Courtesy of AREA15)
AREA15 ANNOUNCES IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES, PROMOTIONS FOR
JUNE 2022
AREA15, the immersive art and entertainment district located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, invites guests to enjoy an array of brand-new events, promotions and experiences this June.
UFC 275 Live Viewing Party: Teixeira vs. Prochazka
Date: Saturday, June 11 Time: Doors open at 4 p.m. Location: The Portal Cost:Tickets start at $30 per person. Must be 21 or older to enter. lick here to purchase tickets. Description: Fans are invited to catch all the action during an immersive viewing of UFC 275 in The Portal, AREA15’s 3D projection-mapped room. Enjoy a 360-degree fight experience on three 23-foot walls with state-of-the-art sound as well as a full bar with specials and a full restaurant menu from The Beast by Todd English. Guests are invited to come early to grab the best seats and great food during the prelims.
National Pride Month at The Beast
Date: June 13 through 16
Time: Noon to Midnight
Location: The Beast by Todd English
Cost: $19
Description: The Beast will be celebrating National Pride Month with a special colorful offering – “Pride Sliders.” This barbecue trio features one brisket slider, one hotlink slider and one pulled pork slider served on colorful buns and garnished with pickled veggies.
Las Vegas Weekly’s 2022 Best of Vegas Awards
Dates: Thursday, June 16
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: The Portal
Cost: Tickets start at $10 per person. Must be 21 or older to enter.
Description: Las Vegas Weekly’s celebratory event will honor the winners of its 2022 Best of Vegas Awards recognizing the valley’s most noteworthy in food, arts, entertainment, nightlife and more. Tickets include select complimentary cocktails and entry into AREA15.
“Secret Garden”: A Full-Venue Experience Party
Date:Saturday, June 18
Time: Doors open at 9 p.m.
Location: Throughout AREA15
Cost: General admission is $34.95; VIP admission is $49.95. Must be 18 or older to enter.
Description: “Secret Garden,” an immersive full-venue experience party in partnership with House of Leaves will feature a headlining performance by Noizu. Fairies, forest sprites and woodland creatures are invited to wear their best costumes while dancing and frolicking through the ethereal world full of lush soundscapes. Guests will also enjoy bewildering art installations, roaming performers, delectable cocktails, sweets, treats and more.
Attendees can groove to the beat with a silent disco and three different stages of music underneath the glittering glow of Oddwood’s tree, inside the projection-mapped Portal and outside beneath the night sky in the A-Lot with sounds provided by Noizu, Cloverdale, Eli Escobar, Till Von Sein, Kaysin, Bumps, Local Singles, DJ Crykit and Robyn Lee plus a special guest to be announced soon.
Father’s Day at The Beast
Date: Sunday, June 19
Time: Noon to midnight
Location: The Beast by Todd English
Cost: $65
Description: Built just for Dad, the Dad’s Backyard Feast includes a loaded surf and turf kabob featuring a one-pound lobster tail, marinated ribeye and smoked sausage, served with corn, mushrooms and peppers, prepared on a wood burning open fire grill and accompanied by a slice of grilled watermelon and one Founder’s Scotch infused IPA.
Booka Shade
Date: Saturday, June 25
Time: Doors open at 9:30 p.m.
Location: The Portal
Cost: Tickets start at $22.95. Must be 21 or older to attend.
Description: AREA15 invites guests to go on a sonic journey with award-winning duo Booka Shade as they bring their riveting live show to The Portal. The German pair, Walter Merziger and Arno Kammermeier, carved a reputation as one of the most highly celebrated electronic acts to come out of Europe in the past two decades. Booka Shade has set the precedent for which electronic music is still held today.
Frequency Breathwork
Date: Tuesday, June 21
Location: The Portal
Description: Guests are invited to a guided conscious breathwork experience by Frequency Breathwork inside The Portal, AREA15’s 3D projection-mapped room. Attendees can immerse themselves in this deep psychedelic experience through the power and safety of their own oxygen supply. While practicing breathwork, guests will be surrounded by immersive visuals wrapping around the space to round out the experience.
Immersive Movie Night: Jurassic Park
Date: June 22, 23, 29 and 30
Time: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Location: The Portal
Cost: $38 for adults (includes one specialty cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage); $19 for children (ages 12 and under). Description: After the success of the popular showings of “Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Princess Bride,” AREA15 continues its immersive movie night, this time featuring the classic film “Jurassic Park.” Hosted inside the 360-degree projection-mapped venue, The Portal, the immersive movie night features immersive projections, custom lighting, themed specialty cocktails and surprise-and-delight moments.
Yoga and Wellness with Dray
Date:Tuesday, June 28
Time: Class begins at 7 p.m. Location: The Portal Cost: $25 per person. . Description: Tap into a higher version of yourself with an immersive yoga class taught by Dray Gardner in The Portal. Build strength, create awareness and bring your mind and body connection to a new level. Enjoy a class experience like no other, surrounded by state-of-the-art sound and 360-degree projections that will envelop participants during the session. Participants are required to bring their own mats.
Dray Gardner was once crippled by a life-threatening automobile accident and his doctor suggested back surgery, however, Gardner insisted on a more holistic approach. Yoga allowed his mind and body to have brand-new experiences – teaching him balance, discipline, focus, determination, strength, flexibility and peace of mind through meditation. As Dray would say, “You owe you.” Because of his own personal experiences, he believes his purpose is to help others evolve into their best self. It was in learning the science behind yoga and how the practice supports every muscle, tendon, joint and organ down to a cellular level that truly hooked Gardner, leading him to what has now become his life’s work and dharma. Gardner dedicates his time to cultivating unique and transformative yoga experiences and offering his knowledge, strength and commitment to the people of the community.
ONGOING EVENTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND PACKAGES:
Klimt: The Immersive Experience
Date: Select dates and times throughout June
Location: The Portal
•General admission adult tickets are $35; seniors 65 years and older and military are $28; children 12 years and under are $19.
•VIP adult tickets are $45; seniors 65 years and older and military are $38; children 12 years and under are $29.
•Discounts are available for Nevada residents with valid I.D.
Description: Klimt: The Immersive Experience is a timed digital art exhibition encompassing 35 minutes and mapped specifically to fit the nearly 7,000-square-foot Portal. Guests will meet the artist like never before when they explore Klimt: The Immersive Experience – an exquisite combination of storytelling and cutting-edge technology delivering a light and sound spectacular of the artist’s most brilliant work in a fully immersive, 360-degree setting. General admission tickets include lounge seating where guests are enveloped in sensational artistry, while VIP tickets include VR goggles to experience “A Day in the Life of the Artist,” a peaceful, visually-rich journey uncovering the inspiration for some of his most iconic work.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Date: Select dates and times throughout June
•General admission adult tickets are $35; seniors 65 years and older and military are $28; children 12 years and under are $19.
•VIP adult tickets are $45; seniors 65 years and older and military are $38; children 12 years and under are $29.
•Discounts are available for Nevada residents with valid I.D.
Description: Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is a timed experience encompassing 35 minutes and mapped specifically to fit the nearly 7,000-square-foot Portal. Guests take an awe-inspiring journey into the incomparable universe of Van Gogh, one of the greatest artistic geniuses of the 19th century. Explore his life, his work, and his secrets as never before through cutting-edge 360-degree digital projections, a one-of-a-kind VR experience, and a uniquely atmospheric light and sound show. The exhibition is brought to you by the organizers of a collection of widely successful exhibitions present in cities across Europe, Asia and the Americas. General admission tickets include lounge seating where guests are enveloped in sensational artistry, while VIP tickets will include VR goggles to experience “A Day in the Life of the Artist in Arles, France,” a virtual stroll alongside Van Gogh himself to explore the countryside settings that inspired his artwork.
AREA15 Industry Mondays
Dates: Every Monday
Location: Select venues throughout AREA15
Time: 10 p.m. to closing
Description: Feel the beats from a variety of DJs on the decks and underneath the glow of Oddwood. Locals will enjoy a 25 percent discount on select activations, experiences and libations inside AREA15 with a local ID every Monday night. Discounts during Industry Night apply to “Wink World: Portals Into The Infinite,” Museum Fiasco, Five Iron Golf and Dueling Axes, as well as food and drinks at The Beast by Todd English and Oddwood Bar. More information atwww.AREA15.com/events. After 10 p.m., AREA15 is 21 years or older only.
Insider Package
The most exclusive way to explore AREA15 is through the Insider Package. AREA15’s Insider Package must be booked at least three days in advance. This three hour package is available for four to 16 guests. Additional tickets, upgrades and add-ons are available upon request at an additional cost.
AREA15’s Insider Package includes:
•Expedited entry into AREA15
•AREA15 Ambassador greeting and welcome
•Admission to LIFTOFF and LIFTOFF Lounge
•One 20-ounce AREA15-branded souvenir Pathwater per person and one 24-ounce premium specialty beverage per person
•Family-style meal at The Beast by Todd English
•One premium cocktail or beverage per person included during meal
•Expedited admission into Wink World: Portals to the Infinite
•Expedited admission into Museum Fiasco
ABOUT AREA15 LAS VEGAS
AREA15, located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, represents the world’s first purpose-built immersive entertainment district offering live events, distinctive attractions, interactive art installations, extraordinary design elements, unique retail, ground-breaking technology, bars and eateries and much more. AREA15’s curated mix of dynamic destinations—including Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, Lost Spirits Distillery, Illuminarium, Dueling Axes, Five Iron Golf, The Beast by Todd English, Wink World: Portals Into the Infinite, Museum Fiasco, Virtualis VR, Emporium Arcade Bar and many more—represents what’s next in experiential entertainment. With a robust, ever-changing roster of concerts, events, immersive art exhibitions, out-of-this-world nightlife and boundary-pushing production shows, AREA15 attracts visitors of all ages.
AREA15 has received numerous accolades, including being named “Best Immersive Art Experience” by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards, one of “The 10 Most Innovative Urban Development and Real Estate Companies of 2020” by Fast Company, “Reader’s Choice—Best Attraction” by Las Vegas Weekly, “Best Arts Hub” by Vegas Magazine, claiming the No. 1 spot in Blooloop’s “World’s Top 11 Immersive Art Experiences” and being included in Las Vegas Magazine’s Hall of Fame.
Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil Premieres at New York-New York Hotel
Mad Apple – the newest Las Vegas production from live entertainment leader Cirque du Soleil – recently celebrated its mad debut at New York-New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Mad Apple is a high-energy mix of comedy, music, dance, and high-flying acrobatics that delivers New York’s wildest night out under the Vegas lights.
For the first time in a Cirque du Soleil show there will be comedy, with Mad Apple’s headlining comedians Brad Williams and Harrison Greenbaum, and freestyle comedy rapper Chris Turner who will entertain guests with on-the-spot, often rowdy improvs.
Featuring a live musical tour-de-force celebrating the best of NYC music past and present led by musical director Xharlie Black, five lead vocalists and a five-piece band; six daring acrobatic acts; and 48 cast members from around the world, the show blurs the lines between circus, live entertainment and New York nightlife culture.
Forty-five minutes before the show’s curtain rises, guests are welcomed into the theater for a pre-show party with a modern-day Studio 54 vibe complete with boozy libations at the DownStage and UpStage Bars, flair bartenders, up-close magicians and entertainers, and live music.
Mad Apple is performed Friday through Tuesday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., with no shows on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Her Instagram reads “bionic_bihhh”.She commands respect.She fought hard all her life to get to where she is.By the looks of it, stars maybe lining up for Amaya to rise to the top.This resilient 22-year-old Scandinavian-blooded warrior has been fighting in the trenches for years, and quite admirably. Better than many of us would have.She isn’t going to be a stat. “Knowledge is power” is the first thing she said as we sat down for dinner in her favorite restaurant–Olive Garden.
Big sister to 4 siblings she pretty much raises; Alex who is almost finished with college, Aden is 16 and still too involved with video games, precious Issac who is 6, and 5-year-old Eli.Daughter to a substance abuse mother who is fighting hard to have victory over her addiction.Absent father whom, by Amaya’s demeanor and language, considers him a stranger.
Amaya put herself through school ensuring she would at least get a high school degree.“I watched people get hurt all my life and I refuse to live that kind of life,” she confidently declared.Her story deeply resonates within me.Amaya successfully graduated from Withlacoochie Technological College in Florida, and one of her instructors noticed her insatiable thirsts to learn and for knowledge.A strong indication of potential and success if harnessed right.
Turns out Amaya’s search for experience and learning led her to be a car tech, auto body painter, aviation-grade fiberglass tech, welder, and fabricator capable to work with and read engineering documents.This interview turned photoshoot turned wildly successful mind-blowing welding test at my friend’s shop “Pheonix Custom Engineering” in Clearwater, served me with inspiration I have longed to experience.
This chick can “quality tig”!Don’t believe me?Bring her in for a test!Amaya’s story hasn’t even come out; yet my loyal, faithful photographer, Suzanne of “323 Photography Studio”, and I are getting requests to see and review materials we produced about her.
Did I mention this tattooed-up, badass, improved-upon version of Lara Croft is also a tattoo artist at “The New York Tattoo Gallery” in Clearwater, Florida?She lost a leg but doesn’t care for people to pay much attention to that about her.I will respect that and keep it short.Turns out, of all people a biker crashed into her, was uninsured and pretty much left her high and dry to deal with the aftermath.This is a classic case of the value of getting “Uninsured Underinsured Motorist Coverage” with your insurance carrier.Amaya; however, is not a “victim”, she is a “victor”.A lot of people I know who are stuck in, and with, sob stories should learn from her.
My friend, Andre Kress, of Corsa Moto Works in Clearwater, as he recalls, tells me of the morning after Amaya’s accident when she FaceTimed him asking about her bike.Andrew Mora of Moramoto personally rallied behind her to help her get another bike.To everyone’s surprise, Amaya did not fold—she is now also a motorcycle stunt rider!Quite good at it as I witnessed.
Crowning this story without mention of Steve Chamberland would simply not be right.When Amaya was in desperate need of a new start, Steve Chamberland and his incredible organization “50 Legs” made sure it would happen by providing her a customized prosthetic leg.
This “pringle”, as she calls herself, is happy. She believes in God and that His hand is at work through all this.Chuckling she states, “I like and I enjoy figuring life as it has become”.Like a true Floridian, Amaya not only fishes and hunts, but she can also clean her kills.
I am excited for Amaya and her future; how inspiring her story is and how she chooses to live her life.This owner of a Kawasaki ZX10 is about to take flight and I am privileged to have met her, standing by to watch it happen.Knowledge is certainly power.I would add, attitude and choice of perspective in a good dose of reality, combined with a resilient fighting spirit also is.
Photos: Florida Night Train and 323 Photography Studio
12 Top Tips for Staying Relevant and Successful in Business, from International Supermodel and Filmmaker Gia Skova
Next Mission Impossible heroine? Wonder Woman? Black Widow? Gia Skova is the iconic image of a fierce ‘Femme Fatale’ who beholds an ideal blend of beauty, talent, strength, and savagery that makes for an enviable action star.
Skova began her career at the age of 12. She quickly caught the attention of some of Europe’s largest retailers, who began using Gia in their print ads and eventually broadcast commercials. It wasn’t long before television producers cast Gia in several television series, and by the time she was 15, Gia had become a celebrity.
Skova is one of the most recognized up-and-coming actresses and models in the United States. She has appeared on countless magazine covers around the world; adorned the runway for some of the most acclaimed fashion designers, been featured in print and commercial advertisements for internationally recognized brands, and been cast in television series, films, theatrical productions, and is the founder of Valholl Production.
GQ Magazine named Skova one of the “50 Most Beautiful Russian Models” as an international sensation in Europe, Asia, Russia, and America.
Shots of actress Gia Skova
Her acting portfolio spans international advertisements to television and film. Most recently, Skova made her directorial debut and performed her own fighting and driving stunts as the lead actress in the all-star film, The Serpent.
Take a closer look at this eye-opening interview with Skova, whose business acumen, relentless work ethic, and ability to cross over in industry, expertise, and brand image with incredible ease and success leave much to be learned in business development.
What brought you to this specific career path?
I dreamed of doing cinema from early childhood with an appreciation for the arts and having this certain state of mind. My modeling career actually chose me, as it was a combination of circumstances and the luck of my first contract in Italy, and this was a successful start. The modeling business is also a form of art. Working as a director was a clear decision later, even though I had already been performing all the functions of the director on set.
What are your top lessons learned in business?
Everyone has their own path. I really love the story that I once heard from my friend from Tibet. When you reach some goal, it can be compared to a mountain. You climb the mountain to the very top to see this view with your own eyes. You can ask someone who has already seen this view, but this will be their point of view. You can ask what obstacles were on the way, but these were their obstacles. This is your path, and it is unique. Do you want this adventure? If the answer is yes, just start your journey.
Nothing is impossible; it’s all part of your mindset.
Everyone has their own path, so start your journey.
Give up negativity, do not betray yourself with toxic thoughts or people.
Integrity is the key to success.
When one door closes, it means you’re meant to go through a different one waiting for you. Always keep going.
Always share your win with your team. At the end of the day, it’s all about teamwork!
There is such a thing as an observation, so don’t listen; just watch, and what you see is the truth.
Visibility in this world sometimes makes you make mistakes and have a false opinion about events… chasing something, or buying something that you absolutely do not need. What world do you want to live in tomorrow? What kind of world do you want your children and grandchildren to live in? Look at what actions you are doing today that actually go against these goals; start doing more good things today—the simplest ones—and you will see how tomorrow will change for the better.
Creativity has no day off.
Find your motivation, and after, you will understand.
Be yourself, always make your integrity a priority—ethics, integrity, and honesty.
What are some projects you are working on now?
All the projects that I am doing now are interesting, and I am in love with each of them individually. My three projects are a story about a superhero, and a Cinderella story, but this is an interpretation of my view of both of these projects. While it’s aimed at a young audience, this is actually for everyone who is a child at heart. The third project is about a spy detective. All of these three projects, as well as The Serpent, are my ideas and the scripts will be done by me. Another project is the comedy, The Recipe. My character Katiana is a very elegant person, but it will be interesting with humor.
I had the privilege of sitting down with the gifted musician, songwriter, and performer Ronnie McNeir to talk about his extraordinary journey in music....
