2013: The Best of the Year On Stage In Las Vegas

2013 saw some really good, interesting shows that will be remembered and cherished by those who saw them or who will see them. Top among these is Michael Jackson ONE, Cirque du Soleil's newest entry in the Las Vegas market and its newest show anywhere. It is stunning, spectacular. The title comes from Jackson himself. He said, "We're putting love back into the world. To remind the world that love is important. To love each other. We are one."

Meat Loaf was here for a few weeks in Rocktelllz and Cocktails, an evening of storytelling, talking with the audience and singing his hits. He proved to be warm and engaging and producer Adam Steck plans to rotate performers who have good stories to tell. It's a terrific concept and should, as it did with Meat Loaf, play to packed houses.

Concerts and comedians also abounded on Las Vegas stages and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas presented theater and concerts to the community.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert stopped briefly at the Venetian in her bus and, still here, are the Jersey Boys and the terrifically entertaining Million Dollar Quartet. Rock of Ages is enjoying a solid run at the Venetian. The glorious Smith Center for the Performing Arts is a jewel in the desert. Road companies - Wicked, The Book of Mormon, War Horse and many more - visited that beautiful stage. The Smith Center's intimate Cabaret Jazz room showcased Barbara Cook, Betty Buckley, Jim Caruso's Cast Party, Clint Holmes (he's a regular) and so many other interesting people. It also brought the community world-class entertainment and gave a much-needed home to the Las Vegas Philharmonic and the Nevada Ballet Theatre.

In its first full year of operation, the Smith Center for the Performing Arts has proven to be a a world-class success, a jewel in the crown of this Entertainment Capital of the World.

At the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Shania Twain was added to the regular rotating line-up of Celine Dion, Rod Stewart and Elton John.When none of them are there, the likes of Jerry Seinfeld is.

Human Nature (Venetian) and Vegas! TheShow are still at the top of Las Vegas entertainment offerings.