I enjoyed an incredible show at Planet Hollywood’s CHI Showroom. It was a musical tribute to John Lennon performed by Tim Piper. Backing up Tim was his band Working Class Hero. They did a marvelous job with the music of John Lennon, performing a mythical concert. They told an interesting story and the visuals were impressive. Guest stars may appear to add to the Lennon songbook. The show makes for a memorable time for those familiar with John Lennon’s work, and there are many.

While walking through Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw people in line for the "V Theatre." It wasn’t just a single line either. It was more like around the block! The "V Theatre" is another David Saxe creation that offers a variety of entertainment with multiple performers that play to audiences all afternoon and evening. Check the schedule for your favorite act. It’s amazing.

"Vegas! The Show," another David Saxe creation at the David Saxe Theater in Planet Hollywood, is still in previews but will probably become his next big hit. It’s a little like Vaudeville, fast-paced and full of gorgeous showgirls backed by a full orchestra.

It’s that time of year! Yes, Elvis may have left the building, but he hasn’t left Las Vegas. The Elvis Convention draws impersonators from all around the globe and all ages (one as young as 12 years old) and all sizes. There was also the wedding of Big Elvis (who has gone from 900 to 400 lbs.) last Thursday at Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall and Saloon. This "spectacle" was filmed by an Argentine film crew and drew an international crowd of journalists. Viva Elvis! Viva Las Vegas!

Tony Curtis was rushed to the hospital suffering from what was described as an asthma attack. He has had several COPD attacks lately. However, at 85 he’s still an amazing man who was busy showing his paintings right before falling ill. We all wish Tony a speedy recovery.

It was announced that a third Hash House A Go Go will open in October at the M Resort Spa Casino in addition to the locations on W. Sahara and Imperial Palace. Hash House is known for its creative menu and huge portions.

A favorite rock group of mine, "Cheap Trick," is doing great business at the Paris. In fact, their contract was extended through Aug. 7.

Las Vegas’ Entertainer of the Year, Clint Holmes, was a sellout at Suncoast last weekend.

My dear friend, Frankie Valli, will perform at Buffalo Bill’s Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, Nevada on July 31.

Frank Marino’s "Divas Las Vegas" will move to the 7 p.m. time slot through the end of July and then resume the 10 o’clock slot inAugust. Hey early birds, you can now see this entertaining show.

Rag Tag Entertainment will feature "Jekyll & Hyde," a musical, at the Onyx Theatre, July 23 - Aug. 1. This is reported to be "Jekyll & Hyde" like we’ve never seen before. I like to keep everyone in tune with features from Rag Tag Entertainment because they have a philosophy that performing arts are for everyone. That’s one of the reasons their budget allows them to offer these productions at a nominal fee. Check it out by calling (702) 732-7225.

More dueling divas in the news. This time it’s Paula Abdul and Ryan Seacrest. Seems both Paula and Ryan are developing TV shows about dancing. But unless something new transpires for Paula, Ryan has the advantage since he’s added Lady Gaga and her posse to his version. Ryan’s show will be a reality series about dancers in Los Angeles. Never give up on Paula though. She doesn’t stay in one place too long. Even her appearances on "Lifetime’s Drop Dead Diva" have been limited. She keeps her fans wanting more.

Last week, trouble was brewing backstage at Sandy Hackett’s "Rat Pack Show." It seems that the Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. impersonators really got into it. Impressionist David DeCosta, the show’s Frank Sinatra, broke it up and a "board meeting" is scheduled early this week. Boys will be boys.

Your columnist, Monti Rock III, performed live in a cabaret concert at Hennessey’s downtown and it was a huge success, if I say so myself. It was like riding a bike to be back on stage. Didn’t realize how much I had missed it. Many thanks to Derek David and the Platters for sharing the room, Mimi Hines for her vocal expertise, Papote Varet for the choreography and the wonderful pianist/conductor Paul Badia. It was a great evening and the audience really seemed to enjoy my stories – and some even enjoyed my singing.

Derek David and the Platters are moving to Neonopolis to perform in Tony Sacca’s Las Vegas Rocks Cafe. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be seeing the real Rock Show, too.

The Latin community is mourning the loss of legendary Cuban chanteuse Olga Guillot, who died last week at age 86. Ms. Guillot, Queen of the Bolero, had 10 gold and 14 platinum records and was noted for her sultry voice and distinctive style. She also appeared in 20 movies, mostly as herself, and was the first Latin singer to appear at Carnegie Hall. Rest in peace, dear Olga.

George Steinbrenner, the force behind the New York Yankees also died this week. The 89-year-old "Boss" died on July 13, the day of baseball’s All Star Game. A brilliant business man who used his millions to build an extraordinary dynasty, he was also the most reviled baseball tyrant in history. But there’s no denying his tactics brought many victories. Bob Sheppard, known as the voice of the Yankees, also died last week at the age of 99. He, with his distinguished and dignified voice introduced players at Yankee Stadium for over 50 years. All in all a great loss to the world of sports and the Yankees.

My first thought about all the Mel Gibson hoopla was that I wouldn’t mention it in this column. He’s known for his acting and directing abilities. A good-looking guy who is the father of seven kids with his ex-wife, Robyn, and a love child with his former girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva. He also obviously has a problem with alcohol. But has he contributed anything in life that affects me? He hasn’t invented anything. He hasn’t discovered anything that might be useful for human kind. So what’s the big deal about an out-of-control movie star that uses filthy language? Maybe there’s more to the story than meets the eye. Bottom line, if he’s ill, there are many resources available to him. If his anger is so out of control that he could resort to criminal acts, send him to jail.

The Rev. Monti, as always, wishes you all a great week.

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