Viva Variety: Donny and Marie Osmond bring traditional entertainment back to the StripBy Kristine McKenzieStanding in the spotlight on a Las Vegas stage is second nature to Donny and Marie Osmond.The Osmond family has an extensive history with the city. Donny's first gig was at the Sahara hotel opening for Shirley Bassey performing with his brothers at the age of 7.It was at Caesars Palace during an Osmond show in 1973 that Donny and Marie sang together on stage for the first time, and throughout the '70s, members of the Osmond family played at practically every hotel in Las Vegas, including the Tropicana and the Las Vegas Hilton.In 2008, the duo opened their production at the Flamingo, aptly titled "Donny & Marie," and haven't looked back. The show is a family-friendly variety show that follows the winning formula of their 1970s TV program, incorporating dancing, humor and all of their hit songs -- both as individuals and as a duo.The show starts out with Donny & Marie singing a medley of "Get the Party Started," "Dancing in the Streets" and "Knock on Wood," accompanied by a group of talented back up dancers.They also sing a new song, "Vegas Love," from their latest album -- the first they have recorded together in 30 years.While they may be best known as a team, both Donny and Marie found significant success as solo artists as well and the show gives them each a chance to highlight their individual achievements.For Marie's turn in the spotlight, she sings her most well-known song, "Paper Roses," along with some of her other country favorites, accompanied by two guitar players.She also heats things up with a mash up of "Walk this Way" and "These Boots Were Made for Walking," accompanied by male dancers.Marie has a strong voice and shows her considerable range by belting out a flawless version of the operatic piece "Pie Jesu."As everyone knows, it's Donny who was always a little bit rock 'n' roll, and the show switches gears for his solo set.He appears out of fog on stage in to rock his 1989 comeback hit "Soldier of Love."Donny, a "Dancing with the Stars" winner, shows off some of his moves and some funky choreography on "Yo Yo" while footage of him and his brothers dancing during the '70s plays on a screen behind the stage.Even though Donny likes to rock, it was his love ballads that made him an official heartthrob and he doesn't disappoint the longtime fans, singing well-known hits like "Puppy Love," accompanied by footage of him during his teenage years."This is the part where all of the women would scream," says Donny in the middle of "Puppy Love," which of course, elicits screams from the female members of the audience. "I've still got it!" he proclaims.Donny and Marie reunite on stage toward the end of the show, singing some of their classic hits like "Make the World Go Away," "Morning Side of the Mountain" and "Deep Purple."The intimate 750-seat showroom at the Flamingo is a perfect fit for Donny and Marie, offering a good view from just about any seat and allowing the performers to walk out into the audience and get close to their fans. The classic Vegas-style room features booths and tables and contributes to the feeling of nostalgia the duo evokes with their show.The Osmonds have both starred on Broadway and they close the show with songs from "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," "Wicked," "The Sound of Music" and more.Donny and Marie have been crowd pleasers in Vegas since childhood and judging by the fact that they're still consistently selling out shows, they'll continue to be welcome for a long time.Q&A with Donny OsmondDonny Osmond's life in the entertainment business began at the age of 5 when he first appeared on "The Andy Williams Show" with his brothers' singing group. During the 1970s, Donny stood out as the heartthrob of the bunch and he soon found himself in the center of "Osmondmania."His sister Marie joined him in the spotlight on "The Donny and Marie Show," a popular variety program that aired on ABC from 1976 to 1979. Donny (at age 18) and Marie (at age 16) made television history by becoming the youngest hosts of a weekly prime-time TV musical/variety show. When the show ended, they continued to perform together up until 1986 and they each went on to pursue solo careers. Donny and Marie reunited in 1998 to co-host "Donny & Marie," a talk show that ran for two seasons.Over the years, Donny has released 55 albums and has enjoyed a diverse career encompassing theater, television and the big screen. He has hosted the game show "Pyramid," he's a best-selling author (his autobiography debuted at No. 1 on the UK bestseller list) and an accomplished theater performer (over 2,000 performances starring in Andrew Lloyd Weber's "Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and most recently on Broadway in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast").Donny also recently co-starred in the Disney film "College Road Trip" and he can currently be found appearing with Marie in their variety show at the Flamingo five nights a week.Q: You have a lot of history performing in Las Vegas -- you've been working here since you were a kid. How have you seen the city change over the years -- has entertainment changed?A: "It's gotten bigger -- that's for sure. Entertainment is entertainment. Obviously the production value has gotten huge and I think a lot of people have learned that, yes, we've raised the bar. But what Marie and I have tried to accomplish here is bring back a little bit of traditional Vegas where it's not just production, but there's personality -- and that's what we've tried to create here at the Flamingo. Yeah, we give them a lot of the dancing and the lights and the multimedia and sound and everything, but there are times where we just sit down and sing and try to give them what we were raised on -- and that is variety."Do you have any memories that stand out from your days performing here back in the '70s? Ever hang out with the Rat Pack or anything like that?A: "My first memory is opening up for Shirley Bassey at Sahara and Mickey Rooney would come by every so often and join in the show. I remember Elvis coming back stage when we were playing the International, when the Hilton was the International, and talking to us back in his dressing room. He closed and then we opened the next night and he stayed to watch our opening show. Then I remember working at Caesars and Frank was out in the audience when we were opening up for Nancy."Speaking of Elvis, there's some footage of you in your show in Elvis-like jumpsuits. Was that just the style or were you a big fan?A: "It's interesting to note that we had the same designer and when Elvis went into that high collar, flare bellbottom kind of a look, it's about the same time that Bill Belew started designing for us, which was around 1970. Obviously Elvis had it maybe slightly before us, but we had the same designer, Bill Belew."It's been 29 years since you did a long-term engagement in Las Vegas. What made you want to come back and do that?A: "We always knew we'd be back. We knew it would be inevitable for Donny and Marie to do something … We wanted to pursue our own careers after 'The Donny and Marie Show' ended and we did that and we thought, you know it's time to bring back some nostalgia and bring back our individual careers. When Chip Lightman and Danny Gans contacted us, they said 'we think Donny and Marie is right for Vegas right now and I know you guys have been thinking about it.' So we looked at a lot of different showrooms and then he introduced us to Don (Marrandino, president of the Flamingo). I was the first one to come here to the Flamingo and I saw the showroom and I said 'that's it.' The booths, the old traditional Vegas -- it's not the concert seating. It's intimate enough, it's small enough yet large enough to support a larger show. It was a perfect fit."You've been performing together for more than 30 years and you're still selling out shows. How have you managed to maintain that popularity?A: "It's unbelievable what's going on. You never really know what's going to happen... You can throw millions of dollars at a show and you just don't know if the audience is going to take to it. We're no exception to the rule, but the word of mouth has been fantastic. Granted, Marie and I have put forth a lot of work… but you just never know, so we're really lucky, really blessed right now to have a wave to ride -- especially in these economic times."In the show you joke about the fact that you're a grandfather, yet you do some pretty strenuous dancing. Where do you get all the energy for that?A: "I have no idea. I really don't know. I'm pretty tired at the end of the week. This grandpa goes home and plays with the grandkids."But that takes a lot of energy too.A: "It's different though. It recharges my batteries so to speak. I still have young children at home. My youngest is ten and I have a seventeen-year-old in high school and three older than that -- twenty-three, twenty-seven and twenty-nine." You've got your hands full.A: "Yeah I do, but I'm pretty lucky in that respect too. I get to have my cake and eat it too as they say. I get to play Vegas and do the star role and then I go home and play the dad role."You sing a lot of greatest hits in your show -- any plans to release new music? A: "We do actually. There's talk of doing a Donny and Marie album but again, we still have our own separate careers. Marie's working on an album right now and so the plans are there but …to add any more on the plate would be kind of dangerous right now, but there are plans for me to start my solo project after the first of the year."Would you ever want to go back to TV or do you prefer a live audience?A: "There is a show in the works right now -- can't really release the information yet -- but a network show that Marie and I are looking at doing... Vegas is looking like exactly the way I wanted it to be a few years ago -- the home base for both of us. Because when you get right down to it, let's call it the way it is -- Vegas has become the entertainment capital of the world. Everybody comes here and to have a huge presence here is just a good move."Have you gone to see anyone else's shows in town?A: "No I haven't. I wish I could but we all do shows at the same time. Although, the night before last I was in my dressing room late and George Wallace comes on and I walk out on stage, so I was part of George's show and sang with Mosaic. They said they want to do it again. They're coming up with an arrangement to involve me in one of their songs. So really that's the only thing I can do since all of our shows are at the same time and I go home Sundays and Mondays."You have done television, Broadway -- is there anything you haven't done yet that you'd like to do? Would you like to go back to Broadway?A: "Yeah -- That's obviously a really nice feather in your cap to say you've been to Broadway -- it's a long commitment because you have to do at least 5 -- 6 months…it's going to be easier for me to do stuff like that once my children are raised, but right now Vegas is the ideal situation for me. I did something last August that was so much fun. I did a Disney film with Martin Lawrence and Raven Symone. I played the dorkiest guy though but I had so much fun so I'd kind of like to do some more cameo spots in films. I like to jump around. I like to do it all. It keeps me from getting bored so to speak. Here again, I guess it's that variety in me -- I like to do a lot of different kinds of things."

For visitors wanting to be in the center of the magic and excitement on the Las Vegas Strip, the Flamingo is a wonderful option. It's located near the always busy Flamingo Road/Las Vegas Boulevard intersection, and -- when compared to all the elite resorts in the area -- the rooms here offer comfort and luxury at more affordable prices.Situated in the heart of paradise, the laid-back Flamingo is also themed for paradise. In fact, it's always five o'clock in the Margaritaville Casino. Inspired by singer Jimmy Buffett's island-escapism lyrics, the resort constructed a 15,000-square-foot casino at the front of the property that opens right onto Las Vegas Boulevard. The décor features palm trees and tropical colors. Bikini-clad babes serve cocktails, while flair bartenders keep tabs on the shack-style 5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar.  Margaritaville Casino is complemented by the multilevel, Caribbean-themed Margaritaville restaurant, which boasts two patios overlooking the Strip and a huge retail store. Festival-like sights and sounds are all around. Parrot Heads can dine in a wooden boat or on its bow. Not only is the place buzzing with Buffett's hits, but there are stilt walkers who craft balloon hats and waitresses who slide down from the top of the three-story Volcano Bar and land in a 300-gallon blender of margarita mix.The party vibe can also be found in the Flamingo Showroom. The family musical duo Donny and Marie Osmond host a nightly extravaganza presenting their greatest hits. (Note: Fans can view costumes from their TV stints on "Dancing with the Stars" and Donny's mirrored disco ball trophy in exhibit cases near the lobby.) You can catch the celebrity impersonators of "Legends in Concert" in the afternoons. In the late evening hours, you'll break a rib laughing when comedian George Wallace takes the stage. At the X Showroom, men will get all hot and bothered by the beautiful dancers in "XBurlesque" -- while women can learn the secrets to the cast's sexy moves at XBU - X Burlesque University). Another major attraction at the Flamingo is the Wildlife Habitat. Its impeccably manicured grounds are home to pink Chilean flamingos, wood ducks, koi, turtles and other fascinating creatures -- all of which coexist peacefully together. If you are captivated by the playful critters, you may want to have a meal -- breakfast, lunch, dinner or weekend brunch -- in the Paradise Garden Buffet, which overlooks the habitat.Amid the 15 acres of lush greenery lie the resort's spectacular pools. The main pools are interconnected and feature lagoon areas, a seasonal waterslide, a meandering river and cascading waterfalls. For a trendy dayclub experience, visitors will want to check out the Go Pool (open during summer only), where a DJ pumps up the volume for guests reveling in chaise lounges, daybeds and VIP cabanas.In the vicinity, near the enchanting garden and gazebo wedding chapels, a plaque marks the site of the original hotel (erected in 1946 and knocked down in 1993). It also pays tribute to the Flamingo's infamous founder, Bugsy Siegel. This resort is one of the few left in Las Vegas with links to the past. Be sure to behold its pulsating pink and orange neon façade, another rarity in this day and age.When you get hungry, you'll find plenty of places for a relaxing, casual meal -- from the Tropical Breeze Café to the food court. Hamada of Japan serves up an authentic Japanese dining experience, complete with teppan demonstration cooking and a sushi bar. Featuring a black interior with pink accents, the Center Cut Steakhouse perfectly cooks organic steaks, Kobe burgers and rack of lamb. And Carlos'n Charlie's restaurant and bar is known for great food and overflowing spirits -- which often lead to impromptu dancing on the tables and chairs. The restaurant has an expansive indoor dining room and an outdoor patio.In contrast to the resort's easy-going vibe, the action in the casino is always fast-paced. You'll discover a party pit, with female dealers manning pink felt-covered blackjack tables, by the open-air entrance near Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon. A sexy pole dancer entertains from a small cage suspended above the gaming floor. A friendly poker room is tucked next to the lobby, and the race & sports book makes sure all the games are right in your face.Named for the legendary mobster, players can grab a drink in the casino at Bugsy's Bar or head to the shopping promenade for Sin City Brewing Co., which brews four distinct beers exclusively in Las Vegas.There is a wide range of rooms available at the Flamingo. The Go rooms and the recently renovated FAB rooms both have stylish and funky interior design elements as well as flat-screen TVs and other modern amenities. Pets (dogs weighing less than 50 pounds) are welcome in the specially designated PetStay section of the hotel, which contains a dog relief area.Pamper yourself at The Spa. Or if you'd prefer to get out and about, transportation is easy. There's a Las Vegas Monorail station on the premises, so you'll have access to several other resorts along the Strip.The biggest news at the Flamingo lately is the beginning of construction on The LINQ project. This $550 million retail, dining and entertainment district -- complete with a giant observation wheel called The Las Vegas High Roller -- is set to bring even more excitement to the resort in 2013.-- By Renée LiButti

Note: For four weeks only, "90210" heartthrob Ian Ziering will host Chippendales. He'll show off some of his moves from "Dancing with the Stars" and add his name to the list of Chippendales guest stars (Joey Lawrence, Jake Pavelka ("The Bachelor") and 98 Degrees' Jeff Timmons to name a few). Ziering will perform with the show Thursdays through Sundays June 6 - 30.The names Kevin, Chris, Juan and Billy may not sound like anything special, but these are not your average guys. Like the other members of Chippendales, these heartthrobs are tan with sculpted bodies and perfect smiles.While standing on stage wearing the signature Chippendales' costume - a bow tie, wrist cuffs and jeans, the men fulfill just about every female fantasy, but they do a lot more than just look pretty. These men can dance and they demonstrate their aptitude in pelvic thrusting and hip shaking to the screams of women in the audience cheering for more.There are 10 men that make up the Chippendales cast. Each of them is good looking and varied enough in appearance to suit all tastes. "Tall, blonde, dark and lean rough and tough and strong and mean," this show has it all. The uninterrupted flow of gorgeous performers entering and leaving the stage becomes a live version of the Weather Girls' hit "It's Raining Men." With each new scene the men portray a different female fantasy. First, it's construction workers, then cowboys and later doctors looking for a patient from the audience. Women leap out of their seats in hopes of being selected to join the hunks on stage.Next, the men do a re-enactment of "The Dating Game" where three women in the audience are selected to go on stage and compete for their shot at getting some up-close and personal attention with three of the performers.Ladies don't worry if you're not selected, you still have a few more opportunities to get your hands on these cocoa-butter-basted babes. Throughout the show they walk into the audience to dance and flirt with women in the crowd.While the men may not be available, you're still in luck if you're looking for a keepsake to take home. The performers' white tank tops are one of the first things that are torn off every time they strip, and the shirts usually get thrown into the crowd. These former Chippendale-chest-hugging tanks are a hot commodity. Women in the audience don't hesitate to jump and dive to get their hands on them.When it comes to having fun for a girls' night out, bachelorette party or other special occasion, Chippendales the Show is the epitome of every female fantasy. Afterwards, you can continue your night of male indulgence in Flirt Lounge located next to the showroom. The performers invite everyone to join them there for some fun after the show.

The Monte Carlo is an attractive resort located on the Strip -- right in the heart of all the action near the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard. Guests who stay here are within walking distance of several of the city's largest resorts and must-do attractions. Plus, they will delight in lofty accommodations without the elevated price.  In addition, the Monte Carlo is perfect for adults seeking a relaxed atmosphere amid Sin City's "visitors gone wild" vibe. This resort tends to attract a mature, more laid-back crowd. It's rarely besieged by college-age revelers or families with lots of tots in tow.  Although the Monte Carlo has a quiet, relaxed attitude, there are still plenty of fun things to enjoy. The showroom has bragging rights to a variety of big-name entertainers, and the Blue Man Group has also added their colorful touch to the place.  Culinary perfection is also at your doorstep in the Monte Carlo. At Andre's Restaurant & Lounge, chef Andre Rochat creates a menu with Old World charm, highlighting the best ingredients available each season. Brand Steakhouse is known for its heavenly preparations of oversized steaks and chops. Diablo's Cantina serves devilishly delicious Mexican cuisine in a fiesta-like atmosphere, while d.Vino offers wine enthusiasts countless selections for sampling paired with their signature wood-fired pizza. And for those on the go, the Monte Carlo has casual bites in The Café and The Buffet, which features an exhibition-style kitchen. Another unpretentious spot for a nibble as well as the odd pint and some great music courtesy of dueling pianos is The Pub. Insider tip: If the massive main room looks intimidating, take your brew outside on the back patio, which faces the pool -- or there is seating upstairs. Two other unique nightlife venues at the Monte Carlo are the icy wonderland of the Minus5 Ice Bar, where parkas, scarves and gloves are among the recommended attire, and the Ignite Lounge with its LED color-changing lights.In early 2014, the Double Barrel Roadhouse will open fronting the Strip. The sprawling indoor/outdoor space will have a rustic barn vibe and feature live music. It will also serve American comfort food with an array of craft cocktails and beers.Guests can always retreat from the harried pace of the Strip and the casino into the serene parts of the hotel. Along with a lushly landscaped, sun-drenched pool complex (complete with a 400-foot-long lazy river, a sand volleyball court and comfortable cabanas), there's the tranquil Spa & Salon Monte Carlo. Indulge in a variety of fabulous facials and massages at the spa or get your hair done for a night on the town in the salon.If there's anything else you want or need during your Vegas visit, the resort is home to the Street of Dreams. A shopper's paradise, it's packed with women’s and men’s fashions, souvenirs, sunglasses, rock memorabilia, candy and cupcakes (à la The Cupcakery). There is also a stop here for a free tram that connects the property to Crystals at CityCenter and the Bellagio.The Monte Carlo's décor is exquisite, done with imported marble and rich wood furnishings. Crystal chandeliers and sculptured fountains add to the Europe-like elegance. Similarly, the rooms are well appointed. Beds come with fine linens, bathrooms utilize Italian marble and standard amenities include 40-inch LCD cable TVs and iHome docking stations.Another unique component of the Monte Carlo is HOTEL32, situated on the 32nd floor. An exclusive hotel within a hotel, it features five types of suites -- ranging from studios to two-bedroom penthouses. Along with the spectacular view, all of them boast high-tech amenities like BluRay players, multiple flat-screen TVs (including one in the bathroom mirror), and a remote control for the lights, drapes and electronics. Plus, the pampering is over the top. Guests have a personal suite assistant as well as access to limo service. Added touches include welcome amenities, signature turndown gifts and a refrigerator stocked to your preference.When you come right down to it, at the Monte Carlo you get luxury combined with a broad range of dining, shopping and pampering venues -- all headquartered at one of the most ideal locations on the Strip.-- By Renée LiButti