Mary Wilson of The Supremes Performing at Suncoast Hotel & Casino

Mary Wilson
Mary Wilson

This writer has been very lucky over the years, having known and worked with some of the greatest entertainers in the world. I have had the pleasure of having one special lady, who not only is a friend, but with whom I have had the honor of working with in a public relations capacity over a span of many years. However, this is not the case this time out for her.  And, who wouldn’t love to have Mary Wilson at your birthday party and have her sing a special song just for you? I had that happen on my 80th birthday. Well, gang, this wonderful lady who is a fantastic singer, writer, actor, and founder of The Supremes, will be back at the Suncoast Showroom Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 17 and 18.

While growing up in Detroit’s Brewster Projects, Wilson befriended Florence Ballard, Betty McGlown and Diana Ross at age 13, which led to the quartet forming a singing group called, The Primettes.  This was followed by Wilson, Ballard and Ross signing a contract with Motown Records, and not to long after that signing, the name was changed and they became known as The Supremes.

The Supremes
The Supremes

The Supremes were nominated for Grammy Awards in 1965, and again in 1966. They garnered an unprecedented 12 #1 hits, including four in a row – “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Stop, In The Name Of Love,” and “Back in My Arms Again.” In 1977, Wilson released her first solo album, “Mary Wilson,” which yielded the dance hit “Red Hot.”  In 1992, Wilson released her first album in 13 years, “Walk the Line,” which included the single “One Night With You.”

Mary became a best-selling author with her autobiography, “Dreamgirl… My Life as a Supreme.” The book has sold more than 250,000 copies in hardback, becoming one of the most successful rock and roll autobiographies of all time.  She also created a traveling exhibit of 70 gowns worn by The Supremes throughout the years, which can be seen on tour at countless cities across the United States. The exhibit is currently being housed at the African American Museum in Philadelphia. And when you are sitting in her audience and the show is nearing the end, watch and listen, as that’s when she always pays tribute to her friend who passed away at an early age, Florence Ballard.

Showtime each evening is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available from $15.95, plus tax and fees. Tickets can be purchased at any Boyd Gaming box office, by calling 702.636.7075, or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com.

 

THIS AND THAT QUICKLY:

Murray Sawchuck and Cast
Murray Sawchuck and Cast

Murray Sawchuck had a red carpet event recently at his new home inside, Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino, with a terrific turnout of stars, friends and the media. Some of the stars included, Michael Goddard, Roll and Roll Hall of Famer Howard Leese, Clothing designer Tatyana, the Cast of Fantasy and Rock Vault, Anthony Cools, and Mike Hammer. Murray has included a lot of new material, and part of the new material is the famous Houdini handcuffs. Sawchuck said he wants to include more straightforward magic in the new venue, which is much larger than his previous gig at the Laugh Factory, and seats a little more than 300, therefore offering a much closer look at the form of close-up magic he prefers   Chloe, also a cast member of “Fantasy” at Luxor remains a vital part of the new show, as does his sidekick, Lefty, played by fellow magician Doug Leferovich.

“I am absolutely honored to be a part of Planet Hollywood’s entertainment line up along with Britney Spears and Jeff Dunham,” Sawchuck said.

Murray is without question, the king of being on Reality TV. He has been on over a dozen reality shows. Sawchuck is an internationally acclaimed award winning magician with over 24 awards to his name. He has dazzled the judges, and 22 million people, as a finalist on “America’s Got Talent,” and currently appears as a magic expert on the History Channel’s #1 rated series, “Pawn Stars.” You can also see him on CW’s, ‘Masters of Illusion, Nat Geo’s ‘Brain Games, ABC’s WipeOut, SYFY’s Wizard Wars, Reelz ‘Extreme Escapes,’ and he currently just released, The ‘Murray’ Magic Expert – Magic Kit, which is currently available at the venue.

 

Murray performs with a very character driven cast in his show with “Lefty,” his bumbling stage technician that turns into his ‘guest act,’ and “Chloe” his beautiful assistant whom he cuts in half and makes disappear nightly! Show times are 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. daily except Friday. Tickets are priced at $39.45 and $44.95 for VIP seating, plus taxes.

 

Pia Zadora
Pia Zadora

Pia Zadora is now back at Pia’s Place inside Piero’s Italian Cuisine, 355 Convention Center Drive, every Friday and Saturday evenings, beginning at 9 p.m. Zadora is still in recovery from a recent accident, but was extremely anxious to return to Pia’s Place and, in the spirit of the holiday season, she performed over the Holidays, singing some favorite classic holiday songs during her show. Pia also had a slew of guest entertainers, who stopped by to give their friend a helping voice during those special days.  Along with her musical director, Vincent Falcone, and her band, the group put a special twist on many of the traditional favorites – and even Santa himself stopped by each night for a little Jingle Bell Rock!

Golden Globe winner, GRAMMY Award® nominee, ShoWest winner, accomplished singer, film and Broadway star all describe Pia. Performing since the age of six, for those who have seen her in concert, what comes to mind first and describes this multi-talented performer is simply this: Pia Zadora is the complete entertainer. For more information, visit http://piazadora.com or follow her on Twitter @OfficialPiaZ. No cover; must be 21 with valid I.D.

 

Urban Turban has chosen Preferred Public Relations (PPR) as the agency of record to handle public relations and promotional efforts for its Las Vegas location. Known for a traditionally international menu, Urban Turban is bringing the flavors of India direct to Las Vegas. Urban Turban owners, Bhushan Arolkar, Jasmine Arolkar, and Johnny Lais, were inspired by Bombay cuisine (Mumbai, India) to create an innovative restaurant that fuses a modern dining experience with a wide variety of influences from all regions of India and across the globe.  Urban Turban’s success in New Zealand has led to the expansion of its first location in the United States. Executive Chef, Vijay Deokar, integrates classic Bombay flavors and spices with contemporary Indian fare favorites. Urban Turban provides a menu of tapas that includes a wide array of Bombay Bites, Bottomless Curry and Gunpowder Prawns with an extensive wine and cocktail menu. The 4,450 square ft. bar and restaurant accommodates group dinners and private parties upon request. “We are ecstatic to represent Urban Turban. Its uniquely eclectic take on authentic Indian food is something Las Vegas has needed for so long,” Preferred Public Relations Founder, Michele Tell-Woodrow, said. “It will be a one-of-a-kind dining experience that will fuse exceptional Indian flavors with outstanding customer service and a modern atmosphere. Plus, the wine list is remarkable.” Urban Turban is located at 3900 Paradise Rd. and will be open daily from 11 a.m. until late. For more information, please visit www.utlasvegas.com.

 

Well gang, that’s about it for the first column of the New Year

I’m outa here!

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