Even after 30 years, ‘Jubilee!’ still has plenty to offer

David Becker/WireImage

The 30th anniversary performance of Jubilee! at Bally’s Las Vegas on July 30, 2011.

By John Katsilometes

Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011 | 6:06 p.m.

30 years young Jubilee! opened almost literally out of the ashes of the MGM Grand fire, and when it debuted it was the most daring and lavish show ever on the Strip. Thirty years later, it remains a must-see Vegas spectacle, if only to witness the last genuine showgirl production in the city. Many blush at the grandiose depiction of the sinking of the Titanic (featuring new, visually jarring costumes designed by Pete Menefee), or the musical adaptation of the saga of Samson and Delilah. Both numbers date to the show’s beginning, and the Red Feather Fan number that closes the production—played to a canned medley of Cole Porter classics—features dozens of costumes costing $7,000 each. There are other spectacles in Vegas, but nothing like this. Say this for Jubilee!: It is of its time—not trapped, but settled happily in rhinestones, sequins and enough feathers to fill a million pillows.