The Las Vegas Advisor’s annual comparison of show prices in Las Vegas indicates that the average cost of a production-show ticket (touring headliners not considered) is now $76.18. That’s a big $5.97 increase over last year’s average, rendering show tickets about the only thing in Las Vegas that’s getting more expensive these days. The average price of an A-List show (which doesn’t include lower-priced afternoon shows and comedy clubs) is $80.06, which is $4.62 more than last year. The most expensive show ticket in town is $280.50, the “VIP” option for Donny & Marie at the Flamingo. The least expensive is $19.95 for magician Dixie Dooley at the Royal Resort. There are now 25 shows with a top ticket price of $100 or more (up from 21 last year).
Free Play: How do you combat the high prices? Seeking out discounts—such as half-price outlets in Las Vegas and magazine coupons—is one way. But taking advantage of the city’s many free-entertainment options is even better. One of the best is a new free show in the lounge at Texas Station, where Skip Martin, a former lead singer with Kool & the Gang, performs from 2 to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. The first set is jazzy and instrumental, then the second delivers the hits you’ll remember. No charge! Great play!
Dinner Show: And here’s one more. Though it’s not a traditional dinner show, you can be entertained while you eat at the Las Vegas landmark, restaurant, the Marrakech. For $39.95, you get a six-course menu of Moroccan food (that you eat with your fingers) while belly dancers perform.
Question: I’m curious to know if statements from various politicians that Las Vegas is an inappropriate place to hold a convention in these tough times has affected business?
Answer: The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reports that 340 Las Vegas trade events have been cancelled so far this year, costing the local economy more than $130 million in lost spending, including the loss of 111,800 guests and 236,700 room nights. Judge for yourself.
For more information about current Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons, and good deals, go to www.LasVegasAdvisor.com.
Anthony Curtis’ column is syndicated weekly to all the above publications
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