ALL the RiGht MOVes

aBsiNthe is astoNishiNG
By Heather Turk Following a six-month engagement early last year that left locals and tourists alike screaming for more, Absinthe returned to Las Vegas in October for a year-long run at Caesars Palace. A worthy addition to the resorts star-studded entertainment lineup, which includes Celine Dion, Elton John, Rod Stewart and British singing sensation Matt Goss, Absinthe features jaw-dropping acrobatic acts performed in an intimate theatre-in-the-round presentation, with each amazing feat of virtuosity happening mere feet away from the audience. Part carnival, part burlesque, Absinthe is 100-percent pure fun. Part of Absinthes appeal comes from its filthy rich impresario (and the shows host), The Gazillionaire, who would come across as a sleazy used car salesman if it werent for his charisma. Even when hes at his foulest (Absinthe is an adults-only production, and as such features adult language), The Gazillionaire radiates charm, which comes in handy when he tries to get one unsuspecting female audience member to motorboat another. His endearing nature (and ability to pick ticket holders who have a good sense of humor) also helps save him from getting punched in the face when he locks lips with an unsuspecting man in the audience.

The gazillionaire and his faithful assistant, Penny Pibbets

It may have taken a while, but it looks like Cirque du Soleil finally has some competition on the Las Vegas Strip.
When audiences arent laughing hysterically at The Gazillionaires antics, theyre left in awe by Absinthes amazing cast. From the sultry Green Fairy, Melody Sweets, to Oxsana The Unpronounceables wet and wild aerial act, theres never a dull moment in the show. The true show-stoppers of the evening, though, are skaters Den and Mariia, who perform a sensual roller skating routine to Muses Butterflies and Hurricanes. By the time the duo finishes their dizzying finale, audience members will be on their feet cheering over one of the best new acts on the Strip. Other memorable acts include Hollys World costar Angel Porrino as the tap-dancing Weather Girl and the Esteemed Gentlemen of the Highwire, who perform just feet above ticket holders heads. While Absinthe may not be for everyone, for those who want to be in the midst of all the death-defying action happening onstage, its a must-see. The show truly changes the landscape of Las Vegas entertainmentbut keeps audiences so enthralled that they forget to worry about being in harms way. Absinthe performs at the Roman Plaza at Caesars Palace. For tickets, call 800.745.3000.

Photos by Tom Donoghue

The green fairy, Melody Sweets

Absinthes Esteemed gentlemen of the Highwire

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5/24/12 7:47 PM