Slowly but surely, Vegas is getting back to being Vegas.
One popular tourist attraction that hasn’t skipped a beat is Neonopolis, located downtown on Fremont and Fourth Street. Ken Henderson owns the popular spot Notoriety located on the third floor. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the hysterical, Hilarious 7 comedy show features seven comedians that each perform for 10 hot minutes. It is billed as “Standup comedy for a short attention span.”
Produced by Pete Housley, each and every night a different lineup takes the stage, making each show a different experience. The only constant is standup veteran John Hilder, who books the shows and also hosts. Many of your favorite comics, from standup to Comedy Central can be seen.
No stranger to Las Vegas entertainment, Henderson, the CEO of BESTAgency, which covers all things entertainment, said: “Our first night back saw over 70 guests. People want to come have a good time, and we will be back better than ever.
“We offer a great night of fun in a safe environment. Masks are suggested and if you need, we have them for you.” Also offered is sanitizer and the room is laid out for social distancing.
By August, Notoriety will have entertainment seven nights a week including a jazz night, a drag show, and a songwriters competition. A guide to all upcoming shows can be found on their website, www.notorietylive.com or follow them on their facebook page, notorietylivelv. There is also a ticket booth right in front of the Neonopolis building.
Other hot spots inside the multi-floor complex is The Nerd, Don’t Tell Mama, and The Cat’s Meow.
“Here you can discover the undiscovered talent,” Henderson said. “We give many entertainers the opportunity to play the Las Vegas Strip.”
Kenny Davidsen is back
James Brown was known as the hardest working man in show business. All respect the Godfather of Soul, he never met Kenny Davidsen. Always donning a smile and his patented bowtie, Davidsen plays his heart out almost every night of the week here in Las Vegas.
One of the first back to work, he isn’t dipping his toe, he’s diving in. Every Friday at the Tuscany Suites & Casino, for over seven years, the lifetime performer has brought his Bowtie Cabaret to the Piazza Lounge. Usually, one lead, featured singer is joined by a slew of other professional, guest singers. For now, just one professional singer performs. This Friday, Lorena Peril, the star of Fantasy, will be taking the stage.
Every Wednesday and Saturday, Kenny plays the piano at Don’t Tell Mama inside Neonopolis. If you are looking for a night of fun, this event is for you. From approximately 8 p.m. to the wee hours, Davidsen orchestrates an open mic event. Throughout the evening, the bartenders, all professional singers, and guests alike, take the center stage and belt out a tune.
Every other Monday, he wears the hat of musical director for the ever popular charity event, Mondays Dark at The Space. Raising money for a different charity every performance with a cast of different entertainers each show to raise money for those in need.
“It’s good to let people know we are back to offer them a good time in a safe setting,” Davidsen said. “I just want to get back on stage and make audiences feel good.”
All venues mentioned have implemented safety precautions to ensure the health of their guests. Shows at the Piazza Lounge and Don’t Tell Mama are free. Tickets for Monday’s Dark can be found at www.mondaysdark.com with proceeds going to that week’s charity.