Columnist Joe Delaney: Analyzing the state of LV production show offerings

It's time for our seasonal analysis of LV production shows, with personal ratings, comments and comparisons. ... Inquire as to any extras, because what is included in show prices will vary. ... Cirque du Soleil has two entries, both tied for first place in our book, the more recent "O" (Bellagio) and "Mystere" (Treasure Island). ... See both.

Our second-place nod goes to the hot musical "Chicago," a five-star special (Mandalay Bay). ... "EFX," with all its special effects, is next because of Tommy Tune and his dancer's approach (MGM Grand). ... The fourth choice is Bally's "Jubilee," the late producer Donn Arden's legacy, updated, a bit of what LV production shows once were.

Michael Flatley's "Lord of the Dance" (New York-New York) completes the Top Five. ... Now in its second year, it is our town's most exciting dance offering, a Celtic celebration.

Six through 10

Preface: Magic shows are treated as a separate category below. ... "Enter The Night," more Broadway than Vegas (Stardust), a hardy LV perennial, is No. 6, followed by the Luxor's "Imagine," a moderately-priced takeoff on the Cirque du Soleil offerings. ... "The Great Radio City Spectacular," in the eighth spot (Flamingo-Hilton), is a special favorite of people from other countries, especially the Pacific Rim.

"Les Folies Bergere," (Tropicana), is a mostly de-Frenched version of what once was a fine French-styled spectacular, now relegated to ninth place. ... Last and definitely least is what is left of "Splash" (Riviera), once an aquacade, needs salvaging, if possible.

Much magic

Siegfried & Roy are largely responsible for making magic the most important form of entertainment in Las Vegas this decade. ... The duo continues to dominate (Mirage). ... With me, they have to settle for a first-place tie when David Copperfield (Caesars) is in town with his sensual approach, and the year-round with Lance Burton (Monte Carlo), the latter a more full-family friendly offering.

Caesars Magical Empire is alone in second place because it not only offers a variety of experiences, but a good dinner as well in an all-inclusive price, which is slightly higher on holidays.

Mexican illusionist Joaquin Ayala puts "Spellbound" (Harrah's) in third place, with Steve Wyrick (Lady Luck) and Rick Thomas (Tropicana) fourth and fifth, respectively. ... For bargains with value, we recommend Nick Lewin's Comedy Max (Maxim) and Dixie Dooley (Boardwalk Casino).

Full family fare

Recently arrived, "Tournament of Kings," which includes dinner (Excalibur), is a great treat for all age groups, as are the free circus acts and bountiful buffet at Circus Circus.

Impressions, impressions

"Legends In Concert" (Imperial Palace) is a long-running, quality product, star re-creations, live orchestra, but no lip-sync. ... "American Superstars" (Stratosphere) is more of the same with some lip-sync. ... Sharon Haynes and the Jordanaires do justice to the memory of the late Patsy Cline for $29.95, our personal choice, no lip-sync here, either.

If you prefer just one person doing all the voices, wait until Danny Gans returns Tuesday (Rio), while Bill Acosta (Luxor) will be back May 1. ... The Walkers, a trio of impersonators, are at the Westward Ho now with Robby Howard, a slot-players special.

"Forever Plaid" (Flamingo Hilton) is vintage pop music, well-performed with a good plot (see review on page 3E). ... Songs from Broadway musicals are saluted nicely by both "Broadway Cabaret" (San Remo) and the Michael LaRocca Show (World Trade Center), both moderately priced.

In conclusion

Best buy among all the variety revues is "Viva Las Vegas" (Stratosphere), in its eighth year. ... This leaves "Hot Stuff" (Golden Nugget), and "An Evening at La Cage" and "Crazy Girls," both at the Riviera, girlie shows with some comedy. ... For comedy only, try Harrah's Improv; Maxim's Comedy Max, the Riviera and the Tropicana Comedy Stop. ... Shows are changed weekly at all four venues.

This might be a handy check list and a source for your visiting friends as well. ... Hope this helps. ... Please support the Sun Camp Fund. ... See you next Thursday.

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