Las Vegas offers a variety of shows, entertainment, and special events that will be sure to please travelers coming to this desert haven. What’s even better is that many shows are geared to different price points and audiences, which means there is something for everyone.
As a travel writer and recent resident of Las Vegas, I have had the unparalleled opportunity of enjoying various shows currently being showcased on the Strip and surrounding area.
Each has its unique appeal and strong points. My top “3” favorites that you will want to check out during your Las Vegas trip are:
- AWAKENING at the Wynn (the photo at the top by Karin Leperi Pezo is of AWAKENING)
- Cirque du Soleil “O” at the Bellagio
- WOW at the RIO
Grade A+
AWAKENING is one of the newest and best production shows on the Strip with an extravaganza of colors, lights, illusions, choreography, original music, and a coherent storyline that ties the show together in a way that leaves you wanting to come back for another viewing.
The show clocks in at 80 minutes without any intermission. The theater houses a 60-foot, 360-degree prismatic stage with 1,600 seats. One of the ushers explained to me how the theater was specially designed for this production and represents some of the most technologically immersive experiences in Las Vegas.
Each seat has its own speakers built in for a surround-sound experience. Headsets are handed to each guest just before the show, but in all honesty, I didn’t really find they added much difference.
Dancing, aerialists, magic, comedy, lights/lasers, and epic drama create a fantasy world and show like no other. I was mesmerized. Be prepared for one of the most awesome finales in Las Vegas. A true sensory extravaganza.
Narrated by Anthony Hopkins, the mythical storyline is about the hero’s journey – a reluctant hero who must unite the forces of light and dark.
IO is our reluctant heroine and has been chosen to reunite the forces of lightness and darkness, to integrate and restore love again. She hails from the Fire Realm and is tasked with retrieving the crystal shards from the water, earth, and air realm. Once united, together they will restore harmony to the world. Accompanied by two comical sidekicks named Bandit and Boo, they add a lightness to an otherwise somber endeavor.
For me, the most awe-inspiring moments were watching the larger-than-life puppets created by world-famous designer Michael Curry. I was dazzled and engaged. The puppetry, especially the final act, is truly phenomenal.
PRO TIPS: Take advantage of the free parking at the Wynn. If over 3 hours, pay is minimal. Valet parking is also available. Children must be at least 5 years old, with children from ages 5-17 requiring an adult supervision. Tickets range in price from $99-$159 USD.
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Cirque du Soleil “O” at the Bellagio
Grade: A-
“O” by Cirque du Soleil is a Las Vegas staple that has been playing for over 30 years at the Bellagio, with minor modifications. And it goes without saying, that anything affiliated with Cirque du Soleil is guaranteed to have some of the best acrobatics, costumes, stage design, and choreography in town. They are tops in their field and recruit worldwide for their cast.
This water-themed stage production takes place in a theater with a 1.5-million-gallon pool with 1,800 seats sold for each show. Be advised that there are no nets for this performance, just water to soften some of the high-level dives.
Acrobats and gymnasts perform for 90-minutes in stupendous, gravity-defying actions, while synchronized swimmers and divers will amaze the audience on how long they can be submerged underwater. That is why every member of the “O” cast is Scuba-certified. A little-known fact is that submerged scuba tanks allow performers to breathe underwater.
The reason the show is called “O” is that is represents the concept of infinity as an inspiration for show. The French language provides the key as “O” is a phonetic interpretation of the French word for water that is spelled “eau.”
The story is set amongst a 14th century European Opera House, but the storyline seems weak and was somewhat difficult to understand. But I guess it really doesn’t matter, as the performances are stupendous and breath-taking. And quite entertaining without a plot. Multiple things happen all at once, so there is plenty to absorb.
However, many reviews found the clowns a bit boring, much like me. The comedic routines just seem very dated.
Drinks and snacks are somewhat limited with lines and prices that seem over-the-top. No diet drinks were available, other than still water. My $8.00 bag of popcorn was way too salty and without much taste. Eat beforehand and forego the over-priced theater snacks.
PRO TIPS: The theater tends to be in a small corner that tends to get bottle-necked and crowded, so be sure to build in extra time. VIP suites are considered the best seat. This show is suitable for children 5 years and older. Tickets range from $158-$193 USD.
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Grade: B+
WOW is a variety show that will appeal to families as well as adults. It combines comedy, acrobatics, gymnastics, water ballet dancers, jugglers, and unique acts like archer Sylvia Sylvia who can precision shoot just about anything with her crossbow.
Just be aware that the storyline is loose, and sometimes difficult to follow. Essentially, it’s about a fisherman who gets lost at sea and then is magically transported to a water spectacular by a beautiful mermaid he caught. Be prepared for pirates, sea creatures, the Titanic, and an act about Singing in the Rain.
The theater features a 1,000 square-foot liquid centerpiece. The way the theater is constructed ensures there really is no bad seat. It’s a world of water, wonder and fantasy with over 85 performers.
A big plus for my husband was that as a Spanish speaker, he was delighted there was basically no dialogue. Made it much easier for him to enjoy.
On the downside is that you will need to navigate your way through the interior of RIO, with renovations occurring everywhere. My hope is that this is temporary as it certainly detracts from the environment.
Also, both of us felt there was too much clown comedy in the show that fell flat. It seemed as if it was essentially filler. It needs to be improved or the role reduced in the overall show.
Finally, RIO is off the strip. However, that is one of the main reasons ticket prices are affordable along with free parking. Just know in advance that RIO will not match the elegance of hotels on the Strip.
PRO TIPS: This is a family-friendly production with reasonably priced tickets. The show is geared toward ages 4 years old and up. The Archery show with Sylvia Sylvia is quite impressive and arguably the highlight. Great seats and great prices, along with free parking. Ticket prices range from $49-$90 USD.
The author received complimentary tickets for these shows, but as always, we’re committed to providing you with our honest opinions of our experiences.
Karin Leperi Pezo is a freelance travel writer and photographer who has traveled to 125 countries. Her published bylines and images have won many awards, both domestic and international. Areas of special interest are culture, cuisine, and cruising along with nature, wildlife, and adventure. She divides her time between Iquitos, Peru and Las Vegas, Nevada.
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