The Current State of Resorts World Theatre and Celine Dion’s Future
General Admission: A Dual Meaning
In the realm of live entertainment, "GA" typically stands for general admission, a ticketing term that allows attendees to access the venue on a first-come, first-served basis. However, for the Resorts World Theatre, "GA" has taken on a different implication: gradual assessment. This renewed terminology underscores the uncertainty surrounding Celine Dion’s return to the stage after stepping back in November 2021 due to her diagnosis of Stiff Person Syndrome.
The Future of the Theatre
Despite being just four years old, the Resorts World Theatre is slated to go dark after Janet Jackson’s performance on May 31. As of now, no shows are scheduled beyond that date. Officials from AEG Presents, who have exclusive booking rights with the resort, have indicated that they aim for a late-summer reopening. This closure is necessary to prepare the venue for a new standing GA section, meant to alter the seating arrangements and revitalize the atmosphere for future performances.
Leadership Changes at Resorts World
The recent announcements surrounding Resorts World just keep evolving. In an engaging event at the UNLV Lee Business School Nevada Business Hall of Fame, Resorts World CEO Jim Murren affirmed the theatre’s planned renovations. The event also honored notable figures in the Las Vegas community, including Top Rank Boxing founder Bob Arum. Earlier that day, the resort made headlines by appointing Carlos Castro as the new president and chief financial officer, marking yet another shift in leadership.
The Renovation Plans
The work set to commence at Resorts World Theatre is reminiscent of the extensive renovations undertaken at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace about five years ago. This revitalization aims to embrace the same cutting-edge design principles employed in other major venues such as Dolby Live at Park MGM and PH Live at Planet Hollywood. The theater design specialists, Scéno Plus from Montreal, are the creative force behind these venues, ensuring a top-notch experience for both artists and fans.
Celine Dion’s Uncertain Status
The lengthy pause in shows raises concerns about Dion’s potential return to Resorts World this year. The intimate configuration of the theater was intended to recreate the ambiance she cherished at the original Colosseum. Interestingly, the decision to adapt the Colosseum for GA was made shortly after Dion announced her exit in 2019, a move that signaled a shift in the industry as headliners like Keith Urban, Usher, and The Killers have embraced GA options for their performances.
Competition Among Venues
Murren spoke candidly about the intensifying competition for headline acts, stating that Resorts World has been losing ground to other venues like the Colosseum and Dolby Live, both of which offer a general admission option. The hesitation about keeping Celine Dion as a headliner reflects ongoing uncertainties in the industry. The hotel chairman has not yet clarified whether Dion will return, leaving fans and industry insiders in suspense as to her future performances.
Engagement with Local Press
In the fast-evolving landscape of entertainment, local entertainment columnist John Katsilometes captures these developments with keen insight. His daily contributions highlight the pulse of the Las Vegas entertainment scene and the intricate dynamics at play in venues like Resorts World Theatre. With questions surrounding headliners and venue practices remaining at the forefront, the community eagerly awaits further updates on both the theater’s renovations and Celine Dion’s return to the stage.