News Summary

Anita Mann is advocating for May 24 to be recognized as National Showgirl Day by the National Archives, celebrating the cultural legacy of showgirls in Las Vegas. The date coincides with the opening of the Moulin Rouge in 1955. Supported by local government and Las Vegas entertainment legends, Mann is also planning a grand ‘Fantasy’ show to highlight the evolution of showgirls. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and shifting styles, Mann emphasizes the importance of honoring showgirl traditions while adapting to contemporary performance demands.

Las Vegas – Anita Mann is petitioning the National Archives in Washington, D.C., to designate May 24 as National Showgirl Day, aiming to honor the significant cultural impact of showgirls in Las Vegas. This date was selected to commemorate the opening of the Moulin Rouge in 1955, recognized as the first integrated hotel-casino in Las Vegas.

Mann, a prominent figure in the Las Vegas entertainment industry, created and produced the show “Fantasy,” which has been a staple at the Luxor Hotel & Casino for approximately 25 years. To celebrate this potential designation, an event took place at the Atrium Showroom, gathering cast members from various popular Las Vegas shows, including “Fantasy,” “X Burlesque,” “X Country,” “X Rocks,” alongside generational showgirls.

Additionally, local government support has been demonstrated as Clark County has also proclaimed May 24 as Showgirl Day. The celebration featured renowned showgirl legends such as Teri Thorndike, Sheri Mirault, and Cindy Doumani, underscoring the importance of this theatrical legacy.

As part of her initiative, Mann plans to develop a larger-scale “Fantasy” show that encapsulates the history and transformation of showgirls, incorporating video footage to enhance storytelling. Her career is extensive, having directed the “Solid Gold Dancers” and performed alongside Elvis Presley, which adds depth to her perspective as a choreographer and dancer.

Since reopening following COVID-19 closures, “Fantasy” has adapted by integrating contemporary dance styles, although traditionalists within the showgirl community may have varying opinions on this evolution of performances. Mann emphasizes the necessity of evolving while simultaneously honoring the deep-rooted legacy of showgirls.

Mariah Nieslanik, co-producer and performer in “Fantasy,” highlighted Mann’s role as a mentor and her involvement in the show’s daily operations. The upcoming 25th anniversary of “Fantasy” has prompted fresh choreography to be introduced, with contributions from respected choreographers such as Mandy Moore and Val Chmerkovskiy.

Ashton Bray, performance director of “Fantasy,” is focused on maintaining the show’s contemporary relevance in a fiercely competitive Las Vegas entertainment landscape. The impacts of the #MeToo movement and the COVID-19 pandemic have had significant consequences for the Las Vegas entertainment scene; however, “Fantasy” was among the first shows to resume during the pandemic.

Finally, the continued support from the Luxor and MGM Resorts International for “Fantasy” reflects a strong commitment to preserving showgirl traditions in Las Vegas. Mann’s efforts towards recognizing May 24 as National Showgirl Day are poised to further highlight the essential role of showgirls in the narrative of Las Vegas entertainment.

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Author: HERE Las Vegas