This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira steps into the ring—metaphorically—with comedian, filmmaker, and former Arizona Lightweight Boxing Champion Joey Medina performing (with Lisa Alvarado, the Latin Queen of Comedy) October 30 at Chinita's Venue in Henderson.

Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall, October 22



This week, Ira talks with Grammy-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux (during the UNLV Performing Arts Center’s 49th Season) in the intimate lobby of the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall.






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Jason shares his remarkable journey — from “goofing around” with a guitar as a kid to winning his first major competition at 19 and launching a career that’s redefined what classical guitar can be. He talks about the instrument’s unique sound (yes, those nylon strings!), the thrill of connecting emotionally with audiences, and how his playing evolved from proving his technical chops to simply playing what moves him.



In this conversation, Jason reflects on taking creative risks in his recordings, blending genres during his encores, and the mentors who shaped his artistry. He also opens up about what it means to “pay it forward” to the next generation of musicians.



A conversation full of insight, inspiration, and the pure joy of music-making.



Grammy-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux is celebrated by Gramophone as “among the elite of today’s classical guitarists” and hailed by NPR as “perhaps the most precise and soulful classical guitarist of his generation.”



Performing everywhere from New York’s Lincoln Center to Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw and the Seoul Arts Center, Jason has earned acclaim for his “eloquent and vibrant performances” (Gramophone) and “virtuosic, flamboyant, dashing, and lyrical” style (New York Times).



A sought-after soloist, he has appeared with leading orchestras including Cleveland, Toronto, St. Louis, Houston, and Nashville, and premiered works by composers such as Pat Metheny, Jeff Beal, and Jonathan Leshnoff. His album Playwon the 2014 Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Classical Solo, praised by The Huffington Post as part of “the revitalized interest in the classical guitar.”



Jason’s discography includes acclaimed recordings such as Bach Volume 2: Works for Violin, Shining Night with violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, and Concierto del Luna (Sony Classical). He is also co-founder of the guitar department at the Curtis Institute of Music and has taught for 25 years at the Cleveland Institute of Music.



Jason Vieaux     Website



Jason Vieaux     Facebook



Jason Vieaux     Instagram



Jason Vieaux     X




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The Frankie Valli Songbook, Access Showroom at Aliante Casino, October 18



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Travis Cloer — the longest-running “Frankie Valli” in the Tony and Grammy Award-winning phenomenon “Jersey Boys.” Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight as himself, bringing The Frankie Valli Songbook to life in the Access Showroom at Aliante Casino on October 18.






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In this lively conversation, Travis shares how he managed to keep his own identity while performing one of the most iconic roles in musical theater; his deep love for the music that shaped a generation; and the lasting influence Frankie Valli has had on him personally and professionally.



Travis reveals why his current show isn’t your typical tribute—it’s a heartfelt homage to the songs and the sound, infused with his own twist. Joining him onstage is none other than Robby Robinson, Frankie’s longtime music director of 47 years. Travis also recalls the unforgettable moment he first met Frankie backstage at “Jersey Boys,” and how the show opened the Four Seasons’ music to a whole new generation.



He dives into the artistry behind staying true to that legendary sound—layering harmonies using only his own voice, honoring the lush production of the original recordings, and delivering that energy live with a visual flair that brings every note to life.



From “Grease” and “Sherry” to “Walk Like a Man,” “Swearin’ to God,” “Girl Come Running,” “Rag Doll,” “Dawn,” “My Eyes Adored You,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”—Travis celebrates the timeless hits with heart, style, and unmistakable passion.



Travis Cloer     Website



Travis Cloer     Facebook



Travis Cloer     Instagram



Travis Cloer     YouTube




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World-renowned bartender (Dirty Dick Tiki Bar, Paris)



Petite Bohème October 2



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” I sit down with world-renowned bartender Scotty Schuder, the creative force behind Paris’ legendary Dirty Dick tiki bar. Scotty is bringing his globally celebrated cocktails to Petite Bohème for a one-night-only takeover, Thursday, October 2.






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In our conversation, Scotty dives into the rich history of tiki culture—from its 1934 origins with Don the Beachcomber, through its decline, and into today’s vibrant neo-Tiki revival. He shares how his own journey began here in Las Vegas, the city where he first fell in love with tiki, before spending 27 years in Paris and eventually opening Dirty Dick—a bar designed to welcome everyone.



We talk about his deep Las Vegas family roots, his collaboration with Petite Bohème’s Bar Manager Jonah Gibbs, and the magic of tiki: homemade ingredients, fresh juices, premium spirits, and pure escapism. Scotty is joined by Mickey, who helped launch Dirty Dick, as they reveal how recipes are remembered, why tiki resonates so deeply, and what makes this cocktail culture such an unforgettable experience.



Dirty Dick is not your average tiki bar—and it never was. Since 1936, the neon sign above Rue Frochot has read Dirty Dick, first as a Corsican mafia–run sex club in Pigalle’s red-light district and, since 2013, as Paris’s unlikeliest tropical escape. When California-born bartender Scotty Schuder took over the shuttered brothel, he kept the notorious name but transformed the space into a world-class tiki oasis, filled with fresh fruit, house-made syrups, and drinks that echo the golden age of Don the Beachcomber.



Schuder’s path to Pigalle is as unconventional as the bar itself. Raised in the Mojave Desert, he chased music, love, and adventure before landing in Paris, where he decided to stay and raise his son. A fateful visit to Frankie’s Tiki Room in Las Vegas sealed his passion for tiki, convincing him to create a bar built on the same sense of escapism. Today, Dirty Dick is a fixture of Paris’s cocktail scene, a place where locals, travelers, and even rock ’n’ roll royalty gather to lose track of time over Zombies, Piña Coladas, and Schuder’s own creations.



Behind the theatrics, there’s serious craft: ten hours of prep for a single night of service, six varieties of fresh juice, a dozen house syrups, and an obsessive dedication to balance. For Schuder, tiki isn’t kitsch—it’s hospitality at its most generous, designed to transport guests far from Paris’s gray skies, if only for a drink or two.



Petite Boheme      Website



Petite Boheme      Instagram



Petite Boheme      Facebook



Dirty Dick              Instagram




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This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Richard N. “Rick” Velotta, Assistant Business Editor at the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Rick shares his insider’s perspective on the forces reshaping our city—from the explosion of professional sports teams, and the real possibility of an NBA franchise, to how the resort community may have pushed pricing a little too far.

PLUS ART, ALBUM AND BOOK!



QUICK CLIP (Ringo on performing in Vegas through the years):



Ringo and the All Starrs - Steve Lukather, Colin Hay, Hamish Stuart, Warren Ham, Buck Johnson and Gregg Bissonette - joined by musical director Mark Rivera - zoomed in from Riverside Theater in Milwaukee today where they are rehearsing for the Ringo & His All Starr Band Tour, which kicks off September 10 at the Chicago Theatre.






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Fall Tour Dates for September:



10 The Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL



12 Miller High Life Theater, Milwaukee, WI



13 Bourbon & Beyond, Louisville, KY



17 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV



19 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV



20 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV



21 Ironstone, Murphys, CA



23 Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, Highland, CA



24 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV



26 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV



27 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV



Other Ringo news:



STARR ART exhibition at Animazing Art Gallery (September 5-October 15) in the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian Resort Las Vegas, his first show since 2019 and his first to feature his original paintings for exhibition and sale (with all artist proceeds going to the Lotus Foundation). 



Look Up, Ringo's acclaimed Country album with T Bone Burnett released in January 2025 and  garnered him his first UK #1 and saw him chart in the Top 10 on numerous Billboard Charts and make his Grand Ole Opry debut. Ringo and T Bone are currently working on the follow up. 



+ Ringo's last book, Beats and Threads, published by Julien’s Auctions, is an unprecedented chronicle of more than 70 years of his legendary sonic and sartorial style dedicated solely to his historic drum kits and era defining garments. Features 300 images and offers for the first-time the most comprehensive look at his legendary Beatles-era drum kits containing decades of research-based information with curated and detailed photographs of these pieces of music history.




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Vic’s Las Vegas, September 19–20



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes powerhouse jazz vocalist Nancy Kelly, appearing live at Vic’s Las Vegas, September 19–20. Known for her crystal-clear, no-nonsense style, Nancy shares why music—not showmanship—has always been her true love. She dives into the intimate connection between performer and audience, the humor (and humility) that jazz musicians carry, and why swing and bebop remain at the heart of her artistry.






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Nancy also reflects on being groomed for the stage from an early age, the making of her latest album Be Cool, and her belief that jazz must stay rooted in the blues. Beyond performance, she opens up about her passion for teaching—showing young musicians how to truly back a singer—and why rhythm and the Great American Songbook continue to be her guiding lights.



Renowned jazz vocalist Nancy Kelly commands a global fan base with her timeless swinging style, transporting audiences back to an era where jazz was an authenic expression of raw emotion. With a vocal delivery that seamlessly blends old-school charm with fresh, innovative ideas, Kelly’s performances are a masterclass in phrasing, style, and swing. Hailing from Rochester, New York, she began her musical journey at the teder age of four, studying piano,clarinet, and voice at the esteemed Eastman School of Music.



Over her illustrious five-decade career, Kelly has perfected her trademark swing/bop style on stages across the United States and beyond, gracing venues from Singapore to Switzerland. A classically trained pianist turned jazz sensation, Kelly found her voice as the house singer at Jewel’s, a legendary jazz club in Philadelphia. Sharing the stage with icons like Betty Carter and Houston Person, she honed her craft and emerged as a dynamic force on the international jazz stage.



She was twice named Best Female Jazz Vocalist in the DownBeat Readers’Poll, and was inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame on May 1, 2022. Past alumni include trumpeters Chuck Mangione and Lew Soloff, opera star Renee Fleming, bass legend Ron Carter, drummer Steve Gadd and vibraphonist Joe Locke. Esteemed company indeed!



Nancy appears regularly on New York City’s jazz circuit. Kelly has captivated audiences at renowned venues such as The Blue Note and Birdland, earning accolades including two “Best Female Jazz Vocalist” titles in the Down Beat Readers’ Poll. With eight critically acclaimed albums under her belt, including the chart-topping Live Jazz and the widely praised Remembering Mark Murphy, Nancy continues to push the boundaries of jazz with her soulful sound and unwavering commitment to the art form.



Reservations               Vic’s Las Vegas                      



Nancy Kelly                Website



Nancy Kelly                Facebook



Nancy Kelly   &n...

This week on "Talk About Las Vegas With Ira," Ira welcomes jazz artist Andy James, whose latest album, “Happy People” (Le Coq Records), blends the fire of flamenco with the soul of jazz. Andy began her artistic journey as a flamenco dancer, studying in Australia and Spain before performing worldwide. She talks about her family’s musical roots, the challenges of injuries, and meeting her husband—a classically trained pianist and former ballet dancer—during a rehearsal for Carmen.

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Grammy and Emmy-nominated trumpeter and arranger Greg Adams joins the conversation ahead of his August 22nd performance with East Bay Soul in Myron’s Cabaret at The Smith Center

Stoney’s Rockin’ Country, August 15



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with rising country artist Dalton Hicks, performing at Stoney’s Rockin’ Country on August 15. Dalton opens up about the stories and grit behind his latest single, Day By Day—a song shaped by his rough life, self-reliance right after high school, and a “get up and keep moving” philosophy.






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He shares how picking up a guitar at 17 turned a dream of becoming a marine biologist into a career as a songwriter and performer—without any studio backing. Raised a self-described “redneck,” Dalton was first inspired by his grandmother’s church music, even though it wasn’t country. In 2019, he released his debut song, and his first online hit, I’m Still Here, put him on the map.



In this conversation, Dalton talks about his first-ever Vegas performance, his two-year bond with his band (including the funny tattoo story of how they met), recording in Nashville versus the rush of a live audience, his admiration for Thomas Rhett as a family man, and his ultimate dream—to one day stand on the Grand Ole Opry stage. He’s not chasing fame—he’s chasing the chance to motivate people through his music. And when he’s on stage, this “country boy” pours his whole heart into every note.



ABOUT



A country boy to the core, Dalton Hicks sings what he knows. Raised in South Carolina, Dalton’s days were filled with dirtbike races, muddy adventures, and long nights hustling at the pool table. But beneath the thrill of his childhood, music always had a magnetic pull on him. With an unshakable passion for his craft, he’s on a mission to inspire others through his music. Life hasn’t always been easy for Dalton, but he channels those experiences into powerful, motivational songs meant to connect with listeners and encourage them to rise, overcome, and stay strong. His sound is an authentic blend of his roots and his journey, offering a refreshing perspective on the ups and downs of life. Dalton Hicks shares his story and shows what it means to live with purpose and resilience.



Dalton Hicks               Instagram



Dalton Hicks               TikTok




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This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes award-winning magician and showbiz veteran Fielding West, fresh from being honored at the inaugural Global Magicians Hall of Fame ceremony in Las Vegas.
In this revealing and entertaining conversation, Fielding shares how his magical journey began at the age of nine—sparked by a life-changing gift from his grandfather to help him overcome learning disabilities. That spark eventually led to a bold decision: dropping out of graduate school after a chance encounter with none other than Steve Martin. After driving the comedy icon to a gig and watching him perform, Fielding knew his true calling was on stage, not in a classroom.
Fielding dives into the art of misdirection, the thrill of discovering magic’s secrets, and the pure joy of an audience's reaction. He shares the hilarious origin of his unique sense of humor—including a childhood prank involving a whoopee cushion—and talks candidly about performing today while managing COPD with an oxygen concentrator, calling it the “bullet catch” for aging magicians.
He also reflects on the legendary “magician’s graveyard,” names his top three magicians in history, and offers heartfelt insights into his decades-long friendship with master magi-cian Lance Burton.
It’s a magical, moving, and memorable episode you won’t want to miss.

‘Iconic Women of Music’



Backstage Bar & Billiards, September 17



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira is joined by Nashville-based singer-songwriter Rae Radick, performing “Iconic Women of Music” at Backstage Bar & Billiards on September 17.






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Rae’s journey is as bold as the voices she honors—from singing and dancing at age three to releasing her first album at fifteen. After a decade of performing in New York, she followed her heart to Nashville, just as the world started reopening post-COVID. Now, she’s living her dream—and inviting us all along for the ride.



In this episode, Rae opens up about:



*How performing keeps her fit (yes, it's her workout)



*Why taking risks is essential—and failure isn't fatal 



*The inspiration behind “Iconic Women of Music,” a passion project turned professional tribute



*How she picks and paces the icons she honors—from Dolly to Whitney—and lets audience feedback help shape future shows



*Why she’s not an impersonator, but a performer celebrating the legends



*Why a live band is non-negotiable for her—and how art, for her, is all about community



Plus, Rae shares her dream of landing a Las Vegas residency, what it’s like debuting in Vegas, and how she crafts a high-energy, one-woman show that’s “a party from start to finish.”



It’s an honest, inspiring, and full of heart conversation. Join us! 



<b>(Also Watch Full Podcast Video)</b>



Rae Radick, a powerhouse Nashville-based singer-songwriter whose music blends pop, country, and raw storytelling into an unforgettable experience, comes from the suburbs of Bucks County, Pennsylvania.



Rae’s love for music began as a toddler, singing and dancing before she could even form full sentences. By age three, she was in dance classes; by twelve, she had picked up the guitar and piano to craft her own songs. Her lifelong passion for performing led her to DeSales University, and from there, to New York City, where she built a career as a professional actress, singer, songwriter, and model.



Rae created “Iconic Women of Music” because she knew she had more to offer and refused to let others define her worth. The show is a high-energy, electrifying tribute to legendary female artists, featuring a dynamic, genre-spanning setlist that captivates audiences of all ages and leaves them singing along every time. It’s a celebration of strong, trailblazing women—a message Rae is passionate about sharing, especially with young girls navigating today’s challenging world.



Rae Radick    Website



Backstage Bar & Billiards



Rae Radick    Instagram



Rae Radick Facebook



Rae Radick    YouTube




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Multifaceted entertainer, “America's Got Talent” finalist & recipient of the “Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year” award 



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira dives into the colorful world of Clint Carvalho, a multifaceted entertainer whose life story is as vivid as the exotic parrots he performs with. Clint opens up about two deeply personal Facebook posts—one about staying true to yourself, the other about the shifting entertainment landscape in Las Vegas—and why he felt compelled to write them.






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A Las Vegas resident since 1986, Clint shares how the city is more than a place—it's a relationship. Known originally as a “specialty act,” he reflects on the evolution of audiences, who now chase discounts over wonder. Clint candidly discusses losing his way after COVID, his journey to reconnect with his roots in Stockton, and the moment—a fat lip, of all things—that pushed him to go full-time with the birds he started training at just 11 years old.



He talks about earning a black belt in karate, landing his first gig at a theme park, and how he built his act not by commanding his parrots, but by asking. Now, nearly 40 years later, those same birds are still with him, part of a flock of 80 he lovingly cares for. Clint shares how he had to reinvent himself, moving his act indoors, reconnecting with his self-worth, and continuing to create not just shows, but attractions.



Through it all, Clint remains committed to live performance—no screens, no filters, just heart—and raises the question: Has Las Vegas lost its magic?



For six years, Clint Carvalho entertained audiences as Jay Leno’s opening act, gaining recognition for his wide-ranging talents and engaging stage presence. In addition to live performances, Clint has appeared in major motion pictures, further highlighting his versatility as an entertainer with broad appeal.



What truly sets Clint apart, however, is his work with parrots. As both a performer and trainer, he has created remarkable shows that showcase the intelligence and personality of these birds. Beyond entertainment, Clint has rescued and rehabilitated more than 500 parrots, creating opportunities for people to experience the wonder of these animals up close. Through social media and live attractions, he continues to share his passion with audiences around the world.



Clint Carvalho            Website



Clint Carvalho  Facebook



Clint Carvalho  TikTok



Clint Carvalho  LinkedIn




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Founder/Writer, LasVegasSportsBiz.com



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes veteran journalist and founder of LasVegasSportsBiz.com, Alan Snel, who dives into the high-stakes world where sports, politics, and business collide. Alan unpacks the ongoing saga of the A’s stadium project—from the controversial decisions of team owner John Fisher, to the overlap of roles held by Steve Hill, the LVCVA CEO, who also chairs the Stadium Authority.






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He also shares insights into the often-opaque world of public financing, and why some government agencies are more cooperative than others when it comes to Freedom of Information requests. Alan also opines on whether other media in Las Vegas follow his breaking stories. Plus, he shines a spotlight on a major win for outdoor enthusiasts: a long-awaited, soon-to-be constructed paved trail along State Route 159 leading to the stunning Red Rock Canyon, a natural treasure drawing 3.5 million visitors a year. After two decades of advocacy, the groundbreaking finally happened on July 1.



If you care about the future of Las Vegas—on the field, in the boardroom, or on the trail—this episode is a must-listen. LVSportsBiz.com was launched June 2017: They are a digital magazine providing market-leading news, intelligence, enterprise and breaking information on Las Vegas’ sports/stadium industry. Their stories are quoted nationally and they set the sportsbiz news agenda in Las Vegas. Publisher Alan Snel has reported on the business of sports and stadiums in Denver, South Florida, Seattle, Tampa and Las Vegas and is considered a national authority on the topic.LVSportsBiz.com    Website LVSportsBiz.com    X




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Maxan Jazz, July 3



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes the multi-talented Mark Giovi, performing live at Maxan Jazz on July 3. In a powerful and heartfelt conversation, Mark opens up about his remarkable journey—from fronting heavy metal bands to mastering opera, and from vocal coach to tour manager. He shares how growing up in the restaurant business sharpened his instincts for success, both onstage and behind the scenes.






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Mark also candidly discusses his courageous battle with spasmodic dysphonia, a condition that silenced his voice for a year, and the overwhelming support he received from the Las Vegas community during that difficult time. Now back and stronger than ever, he reflects on relearning to sing, living with cerebral palsy, embracing life’s challenges, and his passion for 80’s rock, great conversations, and the art of wine—he even dreams of becoming a sommelier. Don’t miss this inspiring and deeply human episode.



Born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, Mark Giovi began his musical journey at just seven years old, singing alongside his father’s band. His passion soon evolved into a powerful blend of rock and heavy metal, propelling him to front a high-energy NYC band that toured across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. In 1994, he moved to Los Angeles, where his vocal skills led to a remarkable chapter as vocal coach, backup singer, and tour manager for pop sensation Aaron Carter. Mark toured globally with stars like NSYNC, Britney Spears, and the Backstreet Boys, performing in massive 60,000-seat arenas around the world.



Mark’s talent has earned him national TV appearances on “The Wayne Brady Show,” “Good Morning America,” “The Today Show,” and more. He’s shared the stage with performers across genres—from Frank Sinatra’s musical director Vinnie Falcone to Motley Crüe’s Vince Neil. As a founding member of the Las Vegas Tenors and the lead vocalist for six years in the hit show “Bite,” he became a fixture on the Vegas Strip. Now building a powerful solo career, Mark continues to inspire as one of the country’s most celebrated figures with Cerebral Palsy. With his rock band Romeo Riot, he’s tours across the U.S. and Europe. 



Mark Giovi   Facebook




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Ahern Luxury Boutique Hotel, Thursdays-Mondays



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira chats with comedy-magician Adam London, star of the delightfully quirky “Laughter-noon” show at the Ahern Luxury Boutique Hotel, running Thursdays through Mondays from 4 to 5 p.m.






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Adam shares how his journey began on a farm, where helping his grandfather came with a magical reward—literally. His grandfather taught him magic tricks in exchange for chores, sparking a lifelong passion. Adam reveals the one trick that captivated him as a kid, the teachers who cheered him on, and how he went from a small farming town to the big stage in Las Vegas—with a stop at UNLV along the way.



In this lively episode, Adam talks about being a “clean” comedian, how he keeps his act fresh with a balance of structure and improvisation, and why his kids are fans of his career. He also dishes on the duck-filled twist that became a hallmark of his show, the joy of making audiences laugh, and whether being a magician gets you first in line at the buffet.



Engaging, heartfelt, and hilariously insightful, Adam London proves that magic—and laughter—can come from the most unexpected places.



Adam London’s afternoon comedy magic show, Laughternoon, features clever sleight-of-hand magic with a touch of hilarious comedy. Adam became interested in magic after watching his grandfather perform card tricks. He started out in musical theater in college and perfected his craft in comedy clubs around the world including L.A. Comedy Club and the Improv Comedy Club. Adam had a stint working for the Mac King Comedy Magic Show in Las Vegas and has worked in the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. He also appeared on an episode of Fox’s “Raising Hope.”



Ahern Hotel                  Website



Adam London               Website



Adam London                 X




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Director, Voices: The Danny Gans Story



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Andrew Davies Gans, director of the new documentary, Voices: The Danny Gans Story, premiering June 20 at the 28th Annual Dances With Films festival at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The film honors the remarkable yet often overlooked legacy of Danny Gans, a legendary Las Vegas entertainer whose name was once synonymous with the Strip. Though his star burned brightly during his lifetime, his passing on May 1, 2009, left only a fleeting memory in the city he helped define.






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Andrew shares why now—over a decade later—felt like the right time to tell his father’s story. He opens up about the emotional journey behind the camera, the challenges of wrangling a complex production delayed by COVID, and how a project he thought would take two years turned into a nearly five-year labor of love. Featuring heartfelt interviews with Louie Anderson, Donny Osmond, and Las Vegas entertainment columnists Norm Clarke and John Katsilometes, the film sheds light on Danny’s extraordinary talent, unmatched work ethic, and the pain he kept hidden behind his smile.



From Danny’s deep admiration for Sammy Davis Jr. to his relentless drive, athletic mindset, and close relationship with his own father, Voices explores the man behind the Vegas marquee. Despite his enormous popularity within Las Vegas, Danny remained a relative unknown beyond it—largely by choice, relying on word-of-mouth rather than flashy marketing. Now, this powerful and intimate documentary aims to restore Danny Gans to his rightful place in entertainment history—and introduce him to a global audience for the first time.



Andrew Davies Gans is a Los Angeles based producer, director, and writer. Andrew was once a promising athlete and was Drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays at 18 years old, but his Major League Baseball dreams were cut short by injury,redirecting his ambitions into storytelling. 



As a producer, he has brought bold narratives to prestigious festivals like SXSW (Pink Skies Ahead) and Tribeca (Changing The Game), collaborating with talents such as Anya Taylor-Joy,Michael Shannon, Emma Roberts, and Ewan McGregor. 



With Voices: The Danny Gans Story, Andrew makes his directorial debut, crafting a layered and intimate documentary that explores the life of his father, Las Vegas legend Danny Gans. This next phase marks an evolution in his career as Andrew moves beyond producing to embrace writing and directing narrative films. He’s eager to make films that bridge the gap between indie and studio cinema, bringing intimate stories with powerful universal themes to audiences on a grand scale.



Official Website          Website    



Andrew Gans              Instagram




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This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira chats with Pam Ashlund, affectionately known as the “Queen of Swizzle.” Pam will be featured at the Casino Collectibles Association’s 32nd Annual Show, June 12–14 at South Point. In this colorful episode, she stirs up stories about her lifelong fascination—and yes, slight obsession—with swizzle sticks. What began with her mother’s lone swizzle stick from a Chicago lounge has become a sentimental and historic quest to preserve a once-overlooked piece of cocktail culture.
Pam dives into the unexpected depth of swizzle stick collecting: from rare airline and alcohol-branded sticks to mid-century Las Vegas treasures that transitioned from (unfortunately) whimsical 3D forms to flat (and cheaply made) designs. She opens up about her passion for preservation, the ingenious ways she stores and categorizes her vast collection (which includes thousands of sticks that “used to be in someone’s drink”), and how she manages the “household rule” that keeps her collecting in check—sort of. Pam also shares her dream of starting a swizzle stick museum, helping researchers, and why the Tiki revival is giving these tiny stirrers a new spotlight. A fun, nostalgic, and truly unique conversation not to be missed!

Artistic Director, Las Vegas Men’s Chorus



“Broadway Our Way,” UNLV Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall, June 29



This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira catches up with Ryan Duff, the passionate artistic director of the Las Vegas Men’s Chorus. The group is gearing up for its Season 32 finale, “Broadway Our Way,” at UNLV’s Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on June 29.






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In this episode, Ryan shares how 100 powerful voices will come together to reimagine beloved Broadway classics—with a twist only the Las Vegas Men’s Chorus can deliver. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the legendary composers whose work has shaped the stage and stirred souls from Broadway to the world.



Ryan opens up about his career—from globe-trotting performer to high school music director, and ultimately, to leading one of Las Vegas’ most celebrated vocal ensembles. He dives into what it takes to organize a hundred singers, manage weekly rehearsals, and cultivate harmony among a chorus of dedicated volunteers.



He also reflects on how the group navigated an identity crisis when he first came on board, the chorus’ unique buddy system to welcome new members, and the dynamic programming behind their shows—including both familiar showstoppers and surprising selections. “Broadway Our Way” features 15–20 fully memorized numbers (no reading!), choreography, and a powerful emotional core.



Ryan, a 2001 graduate of Ball State University, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Choral Music Education and earned a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Southern Utah University in 2017. He is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), the Nevada Music Educators Association (NMEA), and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). His leadership roles include serving as Chair of the CCSD Honor Choir since 2015 and contributing to the Nevada All-State Choir Committee. Ryan also held the position of 2020 Western Region ACDA Honor Choir Chairman and currently serves as the All-Conference Sing Coordinator for the 2022 Western Region ACDA Conference, as well as a member of the region’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force. Additionally, he has served as President of the Nevada ACDA and now holds the role of Men’s Choir Repertoire & Resources Chairman.



Before transitioning to education, Ryan had a successful career as a professional singer and entertainer. He performed with Holland America Cruise Lines and at venues such as Busch Gardens, Cedar Point, and Harvey’s Lake Tahoe. His experience also includes musical direction for regional theater productions like The Wiz, Fame: The Musical, Peter Pan, Fiddler on the Roof, and The Taffetas. In Las Vegas, Ryan’s performance credits include Tony & Tina’s Wedding at the Rio Hotel & Casino, The Can-Can Cabaret at the Paris Hotel & Casino, and performing as a Singing Gondolier at the Venetian Hotel & Casino.



Tickets                                   UNLV



Las Vegas Men’s Chorus     Website



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