Las Vegas - Wednesday, June 18, 2008

A Walk Through Bellagio

A WALK THROUGH BELLAGIO


Foreword
Bellagio is about things that are good for the soul – fine dining, gardens, flowers, art and fashion. The goal, from the outset, was to create a hotel that would exemplify absolute quality while emphasizing romance and elegance – romance in the literary sense – a place of ideal beauty and comfort; the world everyone hopes for, as it might be if everything were just right.
A dreamy notion, to say the least, but a notion compelled by today's extremely competitive world leisure market. People just expect more these days. The old concepts of resort attractions are just that, old.
In order to become synonymous with beauty and elegance, Bellagio addressed its guests' higher sensibilities. Bellagio had to be distinctive enough to surpass the expectations of discerning individuals not easily fooled by advertising or hype. In a cynical world, creating a place of special elegance, quality and distinction is a difficult feat.
There are few places in the world so exceptional they don't require superlatives. Such places are best described with the simplest of words. Bellagio is such a place.

Architecture
Well-built hotels in Las Vegas have prospered in good times and in bad. The question was how to advance to the next level? Gaming as a unique or special kind of attraction to support tourism is a historical fact, but not a current dynamic. The hotels on The Strip are among the most exciting, dynamic and expensive structures on earth.
Still, Las Vegas lacked another dimension – exquisite and sophisticated elegance and beauty.

Bellagio is aimed, both in scope and presentation, to impress everyone, both the well traveled and the not so well traveled, without being pretentious. The most difficult task of all was keeping Bellagio from looking like the Victoria and Albert Museum or an old mansion with lots of gilt and fretwork.
The challenge became building a place so preemptive, so overwhelmingly attractive, that it would attract people who had not visited Las Vegas before – people who are not impressed with just gaming. Put another way, the challenge was making Las Vegas a successful competitor to London, Rome or Paris.
So began the long, difficult evolutionary process of developing an idea that, when turned into an enterprise, would fire the imaginations of the public, regardless of language, economic or ethnic background.
Bellagio captures the romantic symbolism and classical imagery of Italian architecture. It represents the softer side of the human soul.

Arrival
Guests realize that Bellagio is distinctive as soon as they arrive. Along the entire street in front of Bellagio is a tree-lined boulevard – so much so that it hides parts of the hotel including its own marquee -- historical heresy in Las Vegas.
With its Tuscan-inspired architecture along an eight-and-a-half-acre lake, Bellagio stands out as something completely out of character with what people know or expect in Las Vegas.
The initial impression of Bellagio begins as visitors approach the hotel along the water’s edge traveling along its winding driveway. The drive rises some two or three stories and then curves into the beautiful glass and metal porte cochere. The arrival statement on this cobblestone driveway is so striking that guests’ initial reactions are usually one of spirited curiosity.
Bellagio’s best elements are not revealed right away. People are taken on a journey. They are put off balance. They are surprised. Bellagio exceeds their expectations, even when they expect a lot. After all, this is Las Vegas. The vision was a fanciful environment without extreme formality. Bellagio is a study in informal elegance.


The Fountains of Bellagio
Throughout the world, great public spaces have been accented with wonderful fountains. When thinking of the many romantic places in Paris or Rome, London or Madrid, fountains immediately come to mind. The Fountains of Bellagio express the romantic spirit of the resort.
The result of collaboration with WET Design is the most ambitious water feature ever conceived in terms of choreographic complexity and scale.
At Bellagio, more than a thousand fountains dance in front of the hotel, enhanced by music and light. The display spans more than 1,000 feet with water soaring as high as 460 feet into the air.
A wide range of musical works has been selected for the fountain’s shows, from classical and operatic pieces to popular music and songs from Broadway. Designers, musicians and performance artists were invited to choreograph the fountains to these differing musical selections.
The result is a rich, dynamic collection of performances in water, each uniquely expressive in its interpretation. The performances range from delicate and whimsical to grand and commanding.

The Front Lobby
The lobby is, in a word, grand, both in scale and in design. Above the 18-foot ceiling is a coffer filled with the most extraordinary glass sculpture, a chandelier called Fiori di Como, by glass sculptor Dale Chihuly, whose work has been exhibited in every major museum in the world. The flower petals are in every rich and vibrant color hanging in an explosive three-dimensional glass sculpture lit from behind.
Guests are treated immediately to this sensory use of color and natural shapes like flowers. By this time, having traveled up the driveway, having experienced the garden adjacent to the porte cochere and having witnessed the lobby, Bellagio has begun to establish its unmistakable personality. It is clearly a place unlike any that people have seen before. It is show business in a way. Bellagio aims to dazzle arriving guests by making the most powerful initial impression possible.
The traditional front desk has been abandoned. At Bellagio, the front desk is bordered by a thriving garden filled with trees, plants, flowers and fountains. Just beyond that garden – 40 or 50 feet away – is the front of a building resembling an Italian villa, two stories tall. When employees check a reservation or go to the office, they walk through the gardens, through a door, into the villa, which is actually an office behind the scenes.
Throughout Bellagio, living plants, flowers and gardens have been integrated into the surroundings to soothe the soul and make a wonderful impression on people. Utilizing the quiet elegance of flowers and gardens is not the kind of sensual stimulation that one would consider mainstream Las Vegas technique. It's more subtle. It's far more profound. Who doesn't enjoy the tranquility or beauty of a lush, colorful, artfully designed garden?
Combining this natural sensuality with the high energy of a Las Vegas resort creates a counterpoint or tension. Transfixing or compelling environmental experiences cannot occur without conflict. The conflict happens when what people expect and what they see don't match. It's not enough just to surprise people, to be discordant. It isn’t enough just to be different. That moment of conflict has to be exceptional.

Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Across the lobby from the front desk is an opening through which a glass ceiling rises up 50 feet. This is the beautiful Conservatory. The ceiling framework and beams are the sculpted green metal of oxidized copper, called verde, set in floral patterns.
The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens’ pathways lead to Café Bellagio, the 24-hour dining room; MICHAEL MINA Bellagio, a wonderful gourmet seafood restaurant; the Chihuly Gallery, the first and only shop featuring the work of Seattle artist Dale Chihuly; Giardini Garden Store, a shop displaying garden-oriented gifts, fountains and decorative items for the home; Spa & Salon Bellagio; Jean Philippe Pâtisserie, the first truly European-style pastry shop in Las Vegas; and Via Fiore (“flower way”), the promenade which leads to the Spa Tower.
These amenities were placed in the front, rather than the gaming, so that guests coming and going through this space will be treated to the soothing and exciting dance of color that is only available in nature.
The entire personality of Bellagio, including the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, changes with each of the four seasons and Chinese New Year with different trees, different flowers and an entirely different theatrical presentation.
Renowned lighting designer David Hersey oversaw the lighting of Bellagio’s exterior and its Botanical Gardens as well as the lighting for The Mirage volcano. David has won numerous Tony Awards for productions such as Cats, Evita, Starlight Express, Les Misérables and Miss Saigon.
Specialized light fixtures were designed for Bellagio allowing for every flower to be specially lit. Each time the set up is changed, the Conservatory has theatrical control over every spot in the area.
A horticulture staff of 140 maintains the Botanical Gardens and the entire grounds of Bellagio. The staff has the ability to achieve seasonal designs by selecting flowers that complement the trees, gazebos, bridges and ponds and can add or remove water features to enhance the seasonal effect.
Chinese New Year features a distinctive pagoda, an 18-foot God of Wealth and a Feng Shui design. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while the summer offers flora equally as fragrant. Orange and yellow, brown and gold are used to match the fall foliage. Following Thanksgiving weekend, the gardens are transformed for the Christmas season. Bellagio’s holiday display is one of extraordinary beauty. The wonderful fragrances and magnificent colors of the seasons take over the entire arrival experience.
This ever-changing natural display is the single most significant component of Bellagio’s design, fulfilling the promise of creating the most extraordinary hotel in the world.

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
Las Vegas' premier exhibition venue, the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art presents exhibitions of paintings, sculptures and works on paper by the world's most influential artists. These museum-caliber exhibitions offer visitors a rare opportunity to view legendary works of art carefully selected from prestigious international collections. The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is a cultural destination in which visitors of all backgrounds and interests can experience exceptional art in an unrivaled setting.
Unique, exhibition-related products, including a selection of books, stationery, note cards, desk accessories, prints, umbrellas and totes, can be found adjacent to the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art.
The Gallery Store also offers a full line of limited edition and unique gift items including Fabergé jewelry and accessories, Goebel porcelain, fine prints and original works of art. The gallery and Gallery Store are available for special events such as private viewings and receptions.

The Art of Richard MacDonald presented by Cirque du Soleil
The “O” Theatre lobby has been transformed into an exclusive fine art gallery showcasing the infinite beauty of the human form as captured by the works of master sculptor Richard MacDonald. Immortalizing the grace, strength, joy and discipline of dancers and acrobats, MacDonald’s bronze sculptures, serigraphs and lithographs now enchant Bellagio guests in this permanent gallery, born of the relationship between the founder of Cirque du Soleil, Guy Laliberté, and Richard MacDonald.

Cirque du Soleil’s Production of “O”
Bellagio started out as an extraordinarily ambitious project. But ultimately, for the resort to keep its promise, the entertainment had to be as spectacular as Bellagio itself. It had to produce an entertainment experience that people would talk about in Singapore, Rome, Hong Kong, London, New York and Buenos Aires.
Bellagio had the performance, the money and the ingenuity to create a theatre and a stage with every kind of technology.
With a great piece of entertainment in this one-of-a-kind theatre, the audience is taken to a place they’ve never been before. It is a journey that’s not about thrill rides or motion simulators or virtual reality. It’s about something far more powerful and deep. It’s about the movement of the spirit and soul. It’s about imagination.
Bellagio turned to colleagues from Montreal, the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil. Just as with the hotel, it wouldn’t be enough to simply put a new costume on a previous concept –
even if that concept was heralded as one of the best shows in America, as is the case with Mystère at Treasure Island.
Inspired by the concept of infinity and the elegance of water’s pure form, “O” pays tribute to the beauty of the theatre – from the simplest street performance to the most lavish of operas – where anything is possible and where the drama of life plays itself out before our very eyes. An international cast of world-class acrobats, synchronized swimmers and divers perform in, on and above water in this breathtaking production.

The Pool and Courtyards
Divided into five distinctive pool courtyard settings, Bellagio's pool area captures the romance of the Old World in the classical setting of a Mediterranean villa.
Relaxing pools, soothing spas, a garden vista café and private cabanas are accented by artfully formed citrus and parterre gardens. The formal use of plantings along with groupings of Italian cypresses, olive trees and climbing vines appointed with large unique Mediterranean urns define the gardens' unique characteristics. For added distinction, several pools are enhanced by hand-carved Italianesque stone fountains in their centers.
The five pools and surrounding courtyards were planned with an emphasis on elegance and convenience. The setting is easily viewed from Café Bellagio and the elegant MICHAEL MINA Bellagio restaurant, charming al fresco terraces off private meeting rooms, the Fitness Center and the Via Fiore promenade.
Symmetrically elegant parterre gardens banded by hedges complement the artistically tiled pools that are reminiscent of the Mediterranean designs evident elsewhere at Bellagio.
For complete relaxation, poolside massage treatments are available in private cabanas.

The Restaurants of Bellagio
In order to fulfill its goals, Bellagio’s restaurants had to run the gamut from gourmet
Five Diamond dining to easy informal meals. Food lovers no longer have to go to Paris or
New York for the best culinary experiences. Several of the finest restaurateurs were invited to bring their chefs and managers along with their invaluable expertise to be a part of Bellagio.
Bellagio features a Michelin two star restaurant (Picasso), two Michelin one star restaurants (Le Cirque and MICHAEL MINA Bellagio), two AAA Five Diamond restaurants (Picasso and Le Cirque) and a James Beard award-winning restaurant (Picasso). Bellagio also is home to four James Beard award-winning chefs – Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Todd English, Michael Mina and Nevada’s first James Beard award recipient, Julian Serrano. Never before has such an exceptional collection of chefs and restaurants been assembled under one roof.
When looking at the finest dining establishments in America, the number one restaurant in New York City is Le Cirque owned by the Maccioni family whose patriarch is Sirio Maccioni. Sirio, his sons and his wife agreed to join Bellagio. Once the Maccioni family joined in, the restaurant community knew Bellagio was serious.
One of the finest restaurants in Boston is Todd English’s Olives, the talk of San Francisco is Michael Mina, and the versatile Jean-Georges Vongerichten is internationally known for his work in New York, London and Hong Kong. They all were invited to Bellagio and accepted.
With the approval of his family, one of Bellagio’s premier restaurants was named for the greatest painter of the twentieth century, Pablo Picasso. It had to be a completely unique experience, reflective of his preeminence.
Taking its inspiration from the villages of the Mediterranean, Picasso is a rough-hewn restaurant with a beam and brick ceiling and gesso-covered burlap walls. Some of the great master’s colorful and delightful paintings, as well as his ceramics, tiles and sculptures were incorporated into the restaurant’s décor.
Claude Picasso, the son of Pablo, designed the carpet and the furniture for the restaurant. This environment is the perfect setting to enhance the experience of renowned chef Julian Serrano’s magnificent Mediterranean food.
At Picasso, guests dine indoors surrounded by works of Pablo Picasso or enjoy a cocktail on the outdoor patio along the water’s edge. There is no other place in the world where people can do that unless they go to the Picasso museum in Paris with a box lunch and sit down on the floor. And the security guards might object. Besides, there are no windows in the Picasso museum.
After dazzling Las Vegas with several of the most popular nightlife venues in town, The Light Group opened FIX, an intimate and beautifully designed restaurant inviting guests to experience an approachable, high-quality menu with professional, detailed service in a fun, energetic environment. Whether guests are interested in a pre-show dinner or a lively late-night dining experience, FIX is an ideal destination. Las Vegas’ premier restaurant and nightlife organization will add a modern Japanese dining experience to its impressive culinary portfolio with Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar in summer 2008.
Sensi invites guests on a sensual journey through an innovative approach to dining drama. Executive Chef Martin Heierling drew on his vast international experience to devise a menu based on four complementary cuisines – Italian, Asian, American and seafood specialties – all prepared simply and focused with pure, balanced flavors. To spotlight Chef Heierling’s straightforward approach, Japanese design firm Super Potato crafted a unique, interactive ‘stage’ setup through minimalist, earthy décor. Together they created culinary theater destined to satisfy the personal inclinations of every guest.
The finest pastry chef in the world, Jean-Philippe Maury, also was sought out for Bellagio’s culinary team. In addition to his work as the resort’s executive pastry chef, he created Jean Philippe Pâtisserie. With the opulence and reverent air of a lavish jewelry salon, it is the first truly European-style pastry shop in Las Vegas. The shop features the tallest chocolate fountain in the world. This one-of-a-kind, 27-foot chocolate fountain circulates nearly two tons of dark, milk and white melted chocolate. Jean Philippe Pâtisserie whets the imagination as much as the appetite with an incredible selection of sweet and savory items including chocolates, cookies, cakes, crepes, salads, sandwiches and more.

Nightclubs, Lounges and Bars
While Las Vegas has a long and colorful history of nightlife entertainment, Bellagio’s vision was to define a new era. Bellagio has strived to offer a wide range of sensorial approaches to each venue, from fast-paced excitement to elegant relaxation.

The Bank (Opened December 2007) – Offering unrivaled service in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, The Bank caters to a discerning audience with higher sensibilities. Guests are greeted by a sensuous foyer providing a warm, welcoming space. The entrance into the nightclub's main room presents a dramatic aerial perspective. Elegant VIP booths layer the dance floor in an impressive, multi-tiered environment. A glass-encased dance floor, set at the lowest tier, is slightly raised creating a brilliant focal point in the center of the room. Attention to detail abounds where combinations of rich textures and carefully thought-out elements create a harmoniously paired aesthetic. A rich kaleidoscope of colors complements the club’s intricate details creating a luxurious yet contemporary vibe. Vivid, one-of-a-kind ambient and mood lighting on both the ceiling and floor create an ultra-sensory experience, and a state-of-the-art sound system, built to suit the needs of all music types, brings the club to life. The exquisitely chic and stunning 8,000–square-foot space makes The Bank the most sought-after club experience in Las Vegas. Simply stated, The Bank is cosmopolitan, exclusive and one of Las Vegas’ most desirable party spots.


Caramel Bar & Lounge – Caramel infuses a cool and calm ambiance, perfect for relaxing and unwinding, with the best aspects of a high-energy club. Ideal as a starting point for a night on the town or a place to grab a drink after a show, Caramel adds a touch of sophistication and fun to the Las Vegas nightlife scene.

Petrossian Bar – Petrossian Bar was designed to become the ultimate meeting place. Here, guests may choose from an array of offerings from afternoon tea to the finest champagnes, Petrossian caviar and smoked salmon. Its lavish décor transports guests to another era marked by fantasy and indulgence.

Fontana Bar & Lounge – Fontana Bar & Lounge is located on Bellagio’s casino level where guests enjoy spectacular views of the lake and the famous Fountains.

The Casino
Custom-draped canopies and coffered ceilings add dramatic touches to Bellagio’s casino, which features a variety of table games, video poker and slots.
Club Privé, the high-limit lounge and gaming area designed by Adam Tihany, provides a secluded space with a contemporary feel. The lounge, accented with elements evocative of the opulent art deco period, has an elevated floor that enhances the exclusive nature of the room.
Interlinking metal, dark wood, glass and silver-leafed screen partitions create a semi-enclosed area where players may enjoy a private atmosphere while still being part of the casino action. The understated lighting achieved by Venetian glass panels and chandeliers completes the unique experience.
The expanded poker room, world-renowned amongst poker professionals and fans, creates a modern venue worthy of today's popular sport. Guests are greeted with elegance and style as a Murano hand-blown glass chandelier hangs overhead while intricate marble flooring paves the entryway. Throughout the room hangs artwork depicting the excitement of past Bellagio tournaments and previous World Poker Tour events. Within its 7,000 square feet, the room features 40 tables of non-stop action as well as ‘Bobby’s Room,’ the two-table, high-limit room named in honor of 1978 World Series of Poker Champion and MGM MIRAGE executive Bobby Baldwin. In addition to ‘Bobby’s Room,’ a five-table, high-limit area sits in an elevated section of the poker room.
Shopping at Bellagio
Bellagio is like a symphony. It has movements. The secret to a great symphony is the texture, the variety, the depth of the movements of which it is made. Each of the movements has its own personality and wonderful moments within the framework of the symphony. But even though there are differences in those movements, what makes it a symphony is that all of them are part of the same score.
Retail shopping is part of Bellagio’s symphonic production. Via Bellagio, a unique collection of upscale boutiques and shops, combines the timeless with the avant-garde, the simple with the extravagant.
A stroll along Via Bellagio allows guests to browse through exquisite collections at Fendi, Yves Saint Laurent, Prada, Hermès, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Dior, Bottega Veneta, Chanel and the rare and extraordinary jewelry of Fred Leighton.
Given the popularity of shopping in Las Vegas, Bellagio offers a complete shopping experience. Superb jewelry, watches, designer shoes, gifts, works of art, elegant evening fashions and fine sportswear all are available in the shops at Bellagio.

Guest Rooms and Suites
Bellagio’s rooms and suites feature sweeping vistas of the resort's lake, surrounding mountains and Las Vegas skyline. Each room is elegantly appointed with custom contemporary-style furnishings, fine art and conveniences such as high-speed Internet access, multiple telephone lines and a convenient mini bar.
Special attention was paid to the guest room bathroom design. Italian marble floors and surfaces along with plush robes and soaking tubs were incorporated into the bathroom design as bathroom amenities truly enhance a vacation. From the moment guests enter their accommodations, they feel wrapped in comfort and luxury.

Spa & Salon Bellagio
An international array of innovative treatments and specially trained therapists provide the ultimate indulgent experience. Spa Bellagio’s menu incorporates a fusion of treatments discovered around the world and perfected at the resort. Some of the more distinct services include Watsu, Thai Yoga Massage, Indian Head Massage, Ashiatsu Massage and Shiatsu Massage, performed with the feet.
The Salon’s artistic directors, well-known Las Vegas stylist Stuart Matthew and stylist Araceli Blandon, oversee this dynamic salon with 18 stations. Features include a Barber Room with straight razor shaves using steamed towels and Art of Shaving products, a waxing and facial room, a Private Mani/Pedi Room for guests who like that extra special treatment, two Couple’s Mani/Pedi Rooms, and an area designed with groups in mind for those wanting a “pamper party.”
For guests focused on maintaining their fitness regime when traveling, Spa Bellagio makes it easy with the 6,000-square-foot Fitness Center overlooking the pool and Mediterranean-style gardens. The Bamboo Studio, a 1,000-square-foot exercise room complete with bamboo flooring, is designed for classes ranging from Pilates and Body Blast to Yoga and Boxing.

Business and Convention Travel
With 200,000 square feet of meeting space, attending a convention or business function at Bellagio is just as elegant and comfortable as the experience of those traveling on vacation.
Tuscany Kitchen, the first exhibition kitchen of its kind in Las Vegas, is designed with meeting and convention groups in mind. Flexible packages have been created to accommodate 15 to 60 guests and offer attendees a customized experience utilizing Bellagio’s culinary talent.
For occasions that require an imaginative touch, MGM MIRAGE Events – a fully integrated event-planning company – is available to assist with props, graphic design, invitations, floral fashions and entertainment.
Meeting planners who choose the AAA Five Diamond Bellagio for their function will benefit from an unrivaled standard of service. Bellagio’s Convention Concierge program provides an additional level of support, above and beyond the resort’s acknowledged award-winning service. Acting as a liaison between the meeting planner and the convention service manager, as well as other departments within the resort, convention concierge are on the floor and visible at all times, readily available to assist with last-minute needs. The concierge make reservations for VIP clients, create signage, pick up keys, accommodate rooming changes, as well as assist with audio/visual needs, menu adjustments and any other requests that arise. In essence, catering to a meeting planner’s every need is an integral part of the Bellagio experience delivering on its promise to provide unparalleled service.
Impeccable service in the most exquisite of surroundings ensures that business at Bellagio is anything but usual.

The Wedding Chapels and Terrazza di Sogno (Terrace of Dreams) at Bellagio
The Wedding Chapels and Terrazza di Sogno at Bellagio offer intimate settings for couples wishing to be married in an atmosphere of beauty and romance.
The two chapels were created in an effort to provide couples with elegant surroundings in which to share their wedding with family and friends. Both chapels are inspired by timeless European design with colorful stained glass windows that adorn the wall behind each altar. Ornate lamps and chandeliers of amethyst Venetian glass complement the gentle hues of cream, rose, peach, antique green and bridal blue found throughout the tapestries and fabrics of the chapels.
Terrazza di Sogno, an Italian balcony with toasted marble flooring and walls tinted a warm golden patina, is available for couples wanting the ideal outdoor wedding. Couples overlook stunning views of a Tuscan landscape and a Mediterranean-blue lake with the Fountains of Bellagio soaring to the sky at the moment of the long-awaited first kiss.
A professional wedding coordinator is appointed to each couple and can assist them in making arrangements including dinner reservations at Bellagio’s gourmet restaurants, room reservations for the wedding party and assistance with the wedding reception. Vow renewals and commitment ceremonies also are offered.

Shadow Creek
Located in the midst of the barren Nevada desert on the outskirts of Las Vegas, Shadow Creek has achieved national recognition and the kind of startling mystique reserved for only a select number of golf courses. The course, perennially ranked among Golf Digest’s top 10 courses in the country, is known for its natural beauty, rolling terrain, glistening brooks and ponds, lush gardens and mature trees. The visual elements, spectacular waterfalls and course design lend to astonishing views.



Shadow Creek is closed temporarily for course enhancements and is scheduled to re-open in December 2008. The enhancement project, which will be overseen by original course architect Tom Fazio, will result in rebuilt and reseeded tee boxes and greens, an upgrade to the course’s irrigation system and the addition of a world-class, short-game area. The new short-game facility, intended to reflect the diverse and intriguing shot values evident throughout the course, will feature multiple greens for guests to pitch and putt as well as practice bunker shots.

Conclusion
Bellagio is about gardens, flowers, fine dining, fashion and extraordinary service. It is a place about music and things that are good for the soul. Bellagio is a pointed departure from all that has preceded it in Las Vegas.
Dozens of wonderfully creative people have made cameo appearances. Guest designers who are famous in the world did sections, a restaurant here, a lounge there, a fountain show up front, to add a dimension to Bellagio’s personality.
The test of a wonderful place that can truly be called the greatest resort in the world is not the presence of gaming or the ability to make money. It is that people can go there and have experiences that seem to happen just in the right time and place to suit their moods.
Bellagio has drawn the very best work from thousands of talented and energetic people and, as such, is a source of creative satisfaction for all involved. Everybody feels they have taken their best shot. Bellagio put its best foot forward and allows its guests to be the judge of the endeavor.
When people look back as they depart, they think, ‘it wasn’t like anything I’ve seen before…it was better than I expected… truly incredible…in every respect, lovely and just right.’

# # #

Media Contact:
Jenn Michaels
Public Relations
(702) 650-7565

Las Vegas - Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Bellagio Fact Sheet

Bellagio
3600 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 693-7111 – Phone
(702) 650-7565 – Media Information
(888) 987-6667 – Toll-Free Room Reservations
(702) 693-8546 – Room Reservations Fax
(702) 693-8555 – Hotel Fax
Internet Address – www.bellagio.com

Fast Facts
• Grand opening: October 15, 1998
• A wholly owned subsidiary of MGM MIRAGE™ (NYSE: MGM)
• Original cost: $1.6 billion
• Spa Tower cost: $375 million
• Spa Tower opened December 23, 2004; Additional 928 rooms and suites, 60,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, restaurant Sensi, additional retail outlets and a European-style pastry shop – Jean Philippe Pâtisserie
• 3,933 guest rooms, including 512 suites
• Rates for deluxe guest rooms: $169 – $899; Suites: $450 – $8,000
• Concierge available; Daily, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• AAA Five Diamond Award winner seven consecutive years (2002–2008); First Las Vegas hotel-casino and the largest resort in AAA history to receive the honor; Only hotel in the country for five consecutive years (2004-2008) with two AAA Five Diamond restaurants
• More than 100,000 square feet of gaming area featuring:
Blackjack, Craps, Mini-Baccarat, Roulette, European Roulette, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Pai Gow, Big 6, Caribbean Stud Poker, Let it Ride, War, Three Card Poker, Sic Bo, Poker Room, approximately 2,400 slot machines, video poker and The Race & Sports Book
• The MGM MIRAGE Players Club is the most rewarding player experience. Players earn points, comps, free Holiday Gift Shoppe Points, and more at 12 of the world’s finest resorts and casinos. Slots and table games play is recognized as a single account, giving players the freedom to play anywhere and redeem everywhere. When guests know the value of the card, they travel from one MGM MIRAGE property to another to use the points to their advantage. Participating MGM MIRAGE properties are: Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Treasure Island, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor, and Excalibur in Las Vegas; Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Miss.; Gold Strike in Tunica, Miss.; and MGM Grand in Detroit, Mich.
• Five outdoor pools, four whirlpools and 52 private cabanas; Mediterranean courtyard setting


• Two wedding chapels and Terrazza di Sogno (Terrace of Dreams)
East Chapel seats 30 guests; South Chapel seats more than 100 guests;
Outdoor terrace accommodates up to 34 guests
For more information, contact The Wedding Chapels at Bellagio, (888) 464-4436
• More than 200,000 square feet of meeting and convention facilities
45,458-square-foot Grand Ballroom, 30,800-square-foot Tower Ballroom, 22,052-square-foot Bellagio Ballroom
Tuscany Kitchen – first exhibition kitchen of its kind in Las Vegas
50 meeting rooms, 1,000 – 45,458 square feet including ballrooms
Can accommodate intimate gatherings or convention groups of more than 5,500
For more information, contact Convention Sales, (888) 744-7687 Phone,
(702) 693-8559 Fax
• Approximately 9,000 employees

“O”
Publicity contact: Ann Paladie, Cirque du Soleil
Phone (702) 693-7767; Fax (702) 995-0295
• An aquatic tapestry of artistry, surrealism and theatrical romance by world-class acrobats, synchronized swimmers and divers performed in, on and above water
• A cast of 74 artists from around the world
• Performed in the “O” Theatre, which seats 1,800
• Performances: Wednesday – Sunday, 7:30 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.; Dark Monday & Tuesday
• Tickets start at $99 plus tax
• Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
• Reservations: (702) 796-9999 or (888) 488-7111

The Fountains of Bellagio
• On a lake of more than 8.5 acres of water
• Magnificent ballet of dancing fountains choreographed to music and lights
• More than 1,200 dancing fountains
• Highest point: 460 feet; Span: more than 1,000 feet
• Music ranging from Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli to Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra
• Performances take place every 30 minutes, Monday – Friday, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday &
Sunday, noon – 7 p.m.; After 7 p.m. daily, performances are every 15 minutes until midnight
• No admission fee

Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
• Displays of flora arranged in a theatrical presentation that changes five times a year – each season and Chinese New Year
• Each display is planned a year in advance to ensure that the necessary flowers, plants and trees are available for the presentation
• Glass ceiling: 50 feet high
• More than 13,500 square feet
• Daily, 24 hours
• No admission fee
Via Bellagio
• Glass enclosed shopping promenade
• 42,000 square feet of boutiques
• Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Prada, Tiffany & Co., Fred Leighton, Yves Saint Laurent, Hermès, Gucci, Dior, Fendi & Bottega Veneta
• Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight

Via Fiore
• Giardini Garden Store – Garden-oriented gifts, fountains and decorative items for the home; Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight
• Essentials – Bellagio logo apparel, accessories, gifts and souvenirs, including Bellagio fragrance for men and women; Daily, 24 hours
• Newsstand – One-stop shopping for periodicals, refreshments and sundries; Daily, 24 hours
• Chihuly Gallery – Artwork, books, videos and gift items by artist Dale Chihuly; Daily,
10 a.m. – midnight

Other Shopping
• La Scarpa –Upscale designer shoes; Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight
• Tesorini – Designer watches, jewelry, crystal and giftware; Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight
• The Lobby Shop – Designer accessories, fine gifts, Guerlain Boutique; Daily,
• 10 a.m. – midnight
• d. Fine – Designer fashions & fine accessories for him; Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight
• Caprí – Designer sportswear, swimwear & accessories for her; Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight
• Origins – Cosmetics (located within Caprí); Daily, 10 a.m. – midnight
• Tutto – Logo apparel, gift items, sundries, cosmetics and jewelry; Daily, 24 hours
• The Gallery Store – Art-related books, prints and gift items; Daily, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Cirque du Soleil Store – Cirque du Soleil apparel, videos and gift items; Monday & Tuesday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.
• Salon Bellagio – Beauty and hair care products including Jurlique, Jamu and Bellagio’s private label; Daily, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Spa Bellagio – Body care products and apparel; Daily, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Dining
Bellagio is the only hotel in the country with two AAA Five Diamond restaurants
• Picasso (Michelin two star, AAA Five Diamond) – French with Spanish influence; Dinner; Wednesday – Monday, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., closed Tuesday
• Le Cirque (Michelin one star, AAA Five Diamond) – French; Dinner; Daily, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar (Opening Summer 2008) – Modern Japanese; Daily; Lunch, noon – 3 p.m.; Dinner; Sunday – Thursday, 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 5 p.m. – midnight
• MICHAEL MINA Bellagio (Michelin one star) – Seafood; Dinner; Sunday – Thursday, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 5:30 p.m. – 10:45 p.m.
• Prime – Steak and seafood; Dinner; Daily, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Osteria del Circo – Italian; Dinner; Daily, 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
• Todd English’s Olives – Mediterranean; Daily; Lunch, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Dinner, 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.; Bar, 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
• FIX – Classic American fare; Daily; Dinner; Sunday – Thursday, 5 p.m. – midnight;
Friday & Saturday, 5 p.m. – 2 a.m.
• Sensi – Italian, Asian, American and seafood specialties; Daily; Lunch, 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; Dinner, 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
• Jasmine – Chinese; Daily; Dinner, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Noodles – Asian; Lunch and dinner; Daily, 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.; Dim Sum,
Friday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Jean Philippe Pâtisserie – Sweet and savory items including chocolates, cookies, cakes, crepes, salads, sandwiches and more; Daily; Monday – Thursday, 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.;
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 7 a.m. – midnight
• Café Bellagio – American; Breakfast, lunch and dinner; Daily, 24 hours
• Café Gelato – Italian ice cream, frozen yogurt and sandwiches; Daily; Sunday – Thursday,
7 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 7 a.m. – midnight
• Palio – Pastries, assorted coffees and teas; Daily, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
• Palio Pronto – Pastries, coffees, gelato and sandwiches; Daily, 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.
• Pool Café – American; Daily (seasonal); Breakfast 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.; Lunch 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Snacks – Sandwiches and snacks; Daily; Monday – Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Thursday,
9 a.m. – midnight; Friday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 1 a.m.
• The Buffet at Bellagio – Breakfast, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 11 a.m.; Lunch,
Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Dinner, Sunday – Thursday, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Gourmet Dinner, Friday & Saturday, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Champagne or Classic Brunch, Saturday & Sunday, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Restaurant Reservations: (702) 693-7223; Reservations for Le Cirque (702) 693-8100 and Osteria del Circo (702) 693-8150

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
• Home to museum-caliber exhibitions carefully selected from prestigious international collections
• Dedicated to providing a cultural destination for visitors of all backgrounds and interests
• American Modernism on display February 8 – October 15, 2008
• American Modernism features more than 30 masterworks by American modernists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Stuart Davis
• Gallery hours; Sunday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Last admission sold 30 minutes prior to closing
• Tickets: $15 for general admission, $12 for Nevada residents and seniors 65 and older, $10 for students, teachers and military with valid ID and children 12 and younger are free
• Tickets can be purchased by calling (702) 693-7871 or (877) 957-9777, or online at www.bellagio.com
• New annual membership program provides unlimited access, no-line entry and members-only previews
• Memberships: $50 for Individual, $75 for Couple, $100 for Family, and $35 for Student, Teacher and Senior
• Memberships may be purchased at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Box Office
The Art of Richard MacDonald presented by Cirque du Soleil
Publicity contact: Ann Paladie, Cirque du Soleil
Phone (702) 352-0226; Fax (702) 995-0295
• Exclusive art gallery featuring bronze sculptures, serigraphs and lithographs which capture and immortalize the grace, strength, joy and discipline of dancers and acrobats
• Located in the “O” Theatre lobby
• Price range for artwork: $600 – $500,000
• Hours; Monday & Tuesday, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.

Nightclubs, Lounges and Bars (Ages 21 and older)
• The Bank (Opened December 2007) – The Light Group, which redefined the Las Vegas nightlife landscape, presents a revolutionary nightlife concept named The Bank. Rich with textures and carefully thought-out elements, the 8,000-square-foot-space makes The Bank the most sought-after club in Las Vegas; Thursday – Sunday, 10:30 p.m. – 4 a.m.; Dark Monday – Wednesday
• Fontana Bar & Lounge – Friday & Saturday, 5 p.m. – 2 a.m.; Sunday – Thursday, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.
• Petrossian Bar – Daily, 24 hours; Afternoon tea served daily (under 21 permitted), 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.; Caviar served Sunday – Thursday, noon – midnight; Friday & Saturday, noon – 1 a.m.; Pianist, 10 a.m. – 12:45 a.m.
• Caramel Bar & Lounge – Daily, 5 p.m.; DJ mixes Top 40s to Hip Hop music nightly, 10 p.m. – 4 a.m.
• Allegro Bar – Outside the Caramel Bar & Lounge; Daily, 24 hours
• Baccarat Bar – Daily, 24 hours; Pianist and cello duo, 4:15 p.m. – 1 a.m.
• The Starting Gate – Overlooks Poker Room and The Race & Sports Book; Daily, 24 hours
• Pool Bar – Located on the pool promenade; Daily, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. (seasonal)

Spa Bellagio
• The overall design of the luxurious 55,000-square-foot Spa Bellagio is Zen-influenced, balancing natural elements of earth, water, fire and wind
• An international menu features treatments from Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, India and Bali as well as Native American traditions
• The spa’s 56 treatment rooms include 12 skin care rooms with private showers, four Ashiatsu and two Thai massage rooms, two Vichy rooms, two Hydrotherapy rooms, a Watsu room and four couple’s rooms
• A serene Meditation Room, surrounded by water walls and glowing candles, offers an ideal place to read, meditate or simply relax
• Men’s spa area features a “shy guy” treatment room and an outdoor relaxation balcony overlooking the pool






Salon Bellagio
• 18 stylist stations
• Unique features include a Barber Room with straight razor shaves, a waxing and facial room, a private mani/pedi room, two private couple’s mani/pedi rooms and a pamper party area ideal for bridal and bachelorette groups
• Services include airbrush makeup, hair extensions, microdermabrasion foot treatment and a luminous pearl manicure

Fitness Center
• The 6,000-square-foot Fitness Center overlooks the pool and Mediterranean gardens
• Features include a separate check-in, locker area, treadmills, bikes, elliptical trainers, Pilates equipment and flat-screen televisions located within a wall of mirrors
• The Bamboo Studio, a 1,000-square-foot exercise room complete with bamboo flooring, hosts classes from Pilates and Body Blast to Yoga and Boxing

Shadow Creek
• One of the nation’s most exclusive and top-rated golf courses (closed for enhancements through December 2008)
• For guests of any of the MGM MIRAGE resorts in the Las Vegas area (Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Treasure Island, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor, Excalibur and Circus Circus in Las Vegas; Gold Strike in Jean, Nev.)
• $500 greens fee includes limousine transportation to and from the golf course, a caddy and golf cart

MGM MIRAGE Rewards Visa
• The MGM MIRAGE Rewards Visa issued by Chase allows card members to earn Reward Points for any purchase and double Reward Points for eligible purchases made at participating MGM MIRAGE resorts and casinos, including Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Treasure Island, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor, Excalibur, Circus Circus Las Vegas, Circus Circus Reno, Beau Rivage and Gold Strike in Mississippi and MGM Grand Detroit. Reward Points are redeemed through Chase for certificates used for MGM MIRAGE products and services including room, food, beverage, entertainment, retail and spa services.

MGM MIRAGE Events
• Assists guests in planning special functions that require an imaginative touch
• All services, including computer and technical support, scenic design, prop fabrication, graphic arts, floral fashions, carpentry and metal sculpture are created internally to fulfill the individual client’s needs
• Events can be arranged at any of the MGM MIRAGE resorts in Las Vegas







Hotel Awards
2002-2008 – AAA Five Diamond Award
2004-2008 – Only hotel in the country with two AAA Five Diamond restaurants
2001-2008 – Mobil Four-Star Award
2004-2008 – Condé Nast Traveler;
Readers’ Choice – “Gold List-One of World’s Best Places to Stay”
2002-2006 – Condé Nast Traveller (UK);
Readers’ Travel Awards – Among Best Hotels in the Americas and Caribbean
2004-2007 – Travel + Leisure;
“One of the 500 Greatest Hotels and Resorts in the World”

Restaurant Awards
Picasso 2008 Michelin two stars, 2002-2008 AAA Five Diamond Award

Le Cirque 2008 Michelin one star, 2004-2008 AAA Five Diamond Award

MICHAEL MINA 2008 Michelin one star

AAA Four Diamond Award Winners:
MICHAEL MINA Bellagio, Prime, Sensi and Jasmine

Spa Awards
Spa Bellagio 2004-2008 Mobil Four-Star Award

Management
MGM MIRAGE (NYSE: MGM), one of the world's leading and most respected development companies with significant holdings in gaming, hospitality and entertainment, owns and operates 17 properties located in Nevada, Mississippi and Michigan, and has 50% investments in four other properties in Nevada, New Jersey, Illinois and Macau. MGM MIRAGE is developing major casino and non-casino resorts, separately and with partners in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, the People's Republic of China and Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. MGM MIRAGE supports responsible gaming and has implemented the American Gaming Association's Code of Conduct for Responsible Gaming at its properties. MGM MIRAGE has received numerous awards and recognitions for its industry-leading Diversity Initiative and its community philanthropy programs. For more information about MGM MIRAGE, please visit the company's website at http://www.mgmmirage.com.

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Contact:
Jenn Michaels
Public Relations
(702) 650-7565

Las Vegas - Wednesday, June 18, 2008

World Poker Tour® Returns To Bellagio For Bellagio Cup IV July 2-17

Contacts:

Scott Ghertner,
(702) 650-7565
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations

Lyndsay LaGree,
(323) 330-9876
WPT Public Relations

WORLD POKER TOUR® RETURNS TO BELLAGIO FOR BELLAGIO CUP IV JULY 2-17

Two-Week Event Begins Wednesday, July 2 at Noon

LAS VEGAS – The World Poker Tour® (WPT) kicks off Season VII next month when it returns to Bellagio July 2-17 for Bellagio Cup IV. The two-week event begins Wednesday, July 2 and consists of seven no limit hold ‘em tournaments ranging from $2,000-$5,000, along with seven, $1,500 super satellite no limit hold ‘em events.

The WPT main event, which requires an entry fee of $15,000, begins Friday, July 11 with the final table scheduled for Thursday, July 17. The WPT main event champion will receive the first place prize money as well as a $25,000 seat in the April 2009 WPT World Championship at Bellagio. Player registration is now available at Bellagio’s poker room.

Bellagio Cup IV will be the first tournament at Bellagio in which players will receive “triple chips” for all preliminary and main events. This unique change in the tournament structure will give players three times as many starting chips as they had received at previous Bellagio events.

“There is no doubt in my mind that the players will benefit most from this change in our structure,” said Jack McClelland, director of poker tournaments at Bellagio. “This new feature should create more action throughout the tournament and an opportunity to generate a larger prize pool for the players.”

For free audience tickets and details regarding the Bellagio Cup IV final table taping, call (323) 330-9871. Visit www.worldpokertour.com for the complete WPT Season VII schedule.

WPT Enterprises, Inc. (Nasdaq: WPTE) is a company engaged in the creation of internationally branded entertainment and consumer products driven by the development, production, and marketing of televised programming based on gaming themes. WPTE is the creator of the World Poker Tour®, a television show based on a series of high-stakes poker tournaments that airs Monday nights at 9 p.m. EST/PST on GSN in the United States, and has been licensed for broadcast globally. WPTE also offers real-money online gaming on its website, www.worldpokertour.com, which prohibits wagers from players in the U.S. and certain other restricted territories.

WPTE also has operations in mainland China, pursuant to an agreement with the China Leisure Sports Administrative Center where WPTE is developing and marketing the WPT China National Traktor Poker Tour. In January 2008, the company launched ClubWPT.com, an innovative subscription-based online poker club targeted to the estimated 60 million poker players in the United States and currently is offered in 38 States. WPTE currently licenses its brand to companies in the business of poker equipment and instruction, apparel, publishing, electronic and wireless entertainment, DVD/home entertainment, casino games, and giftware. The company also is engaged in the sale of corporate sponsorships. For show information, tools for improving poker play, and other WPT news, fans may log on to www.worldpokertour.com. WPTE is a majority owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: LACO).

Las Vegas - Monday, May 19, 2008

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art To Present 'American Modernism' Beginning February 2008

Rebecca Ingram Frisch
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7531
ringram@mgmmirage.com


BELLAGIO GALLERY OF FINE ART PRESENTS
‘AMERICAN MODERNISM’ THROUGH OCTOBER 15, 2008

New Exhibition and New Vision for Las Vegas’ Premier Art Gallery

LAS VEGAS – Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art showcases the best of “American Modernism” through October 15, 2008. Organized by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), the exhibition features masterworks by American modernists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Stuart Davis, Marsden Hartley, Arshile Gorky and others.

An engaging retrospective, the carefully chosen display showcases more than 30 of the MFA’s most renowned paintings. The contemporary presentation advances Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art’s dedication to enhance the cultural landscape of Las Vegas. The period known as American Modernism began at the turn of the 20th century and reached its pinnacle between World War I and World War II. During this time, celebrated artists such as O’Keeffe began experimenting with painting by offering a subjective take on the traditional subject matter of still life and landscape.

The exhibit also signals a change in vision led by MGM MIRAGE Curatorial Advisor Michele Quinn and new Gallery Manager Tarissa Tiberti. Quinn has worked with MGM MIRAGE and its various properties for more than two years advising on its fine art collection management through acquisitions and installation. This expanded role bridges her more than 15 years of experience in the New York art world with the exhibition programming goals of Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. A second-generation Nevadan, Tiberti received a master’s degree from the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. She most recently served as gallery assistant for the Franklin Parrasch Gallery in New York, N.Y.

Tiberti and Quinn work closely to continue to bring world-class exhibitions to Las Vegas and to ensure Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is a cultural destination in which visitors of all backgrounds and interests can experience exceptional art. Among their plans for the gallery is the debut of an expanded membership program in late 2008 as well as greater initiatives aimed at children of Clark County, Nev.


Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Last admissions are sold 30 minutes prior to closing. Located adjacent to the gallery, The Gallery Store offers limited edition works of art as well as a wide selection of prints, books, stationery and unique gifts.

Tickets for “American Modernism” are $15 for general admission, $12 for Nevada residents and seniors 65 and older, $10 for students, teachers and military with valid ID and children 12 and younger are free.

Tickets and information are available by calling (702) 693-7871 or (877) 957-9777, or online at www.bellagio.com or www.ticketweb.com. Audio tours are included in the price of admission.

About Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
Located in the heart of the AAA Five Diamond Bellagio, the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is Las Vegas’ premier exhibition space. Since opening in 1998, the gallery has presented exhibitions of artworks and objects drawn from internationally acclaimed museums and private collections including “The Impressionist Landscape: From Corot to Van Gogh” and “Fabergé: Treasures from the Kremlin.”

About Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston is recognized for the quality and scope of its
encyclopedic collection which includes an estimated 350,000 objects. The museum’s
collected works cover the following areas: Art of the Americas; Art of Europe; Contemporary Art; Art of Asia, Oceania and Africa; Art of the Ancient World; Prints, Drawings and Photographs; Textiles and Fashion Arts; and Musical Instruments.

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Las Vegas - Friday, May 02, 2008

Shadow Creek to Close Temporarily for Course Enhancements Effective Monday, May 19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Scott Ghertner
May 1, 2008 MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7565



SHADOW CREEK TO CLOSE TEMPORARILY
FOR COURSE ENHANCEMENTS EFFECTIVE MONDAY, MAY 19

LAS VEGAS – Shadow Creek, one of the country’s most exclusive golf courses, will close temporarily for course enhancements effective Monday, May 19. The course, perennially ranked among Golf Digest’s top 10 courses in the country, is scheduled to re-open in December 2008. The enhancement project will be overseen by original course architect Tom Fazio.

The primary goal of the closure is to rebuild and reseed the tee boxes and greens, upgrade the course’s irrigation system and build a world-class, short-game area. The short-game facility, intended to reflect the diverse and intriguing shot values evident throughout the course, will feature multiple greens for guests to pitch and putt as well as practice bunker shots.

Located in the midst of the barren Nevada desert on the outskirts of Las Vegas, Shadow Creek has achieved national recognition and the kind of startling mystique reserved for only a select number of golf courses. The course is known for its natural beauty, rolling terrain, glistening brooks and ponds, lush gardens and mature trees. The visual elements, spectacular waterfalls and course design lend to astonishing views.

Guests of MGM MIRAGE properties can reserve tee times at either of the two Primm Valley Golf Club courses (Lakes or Desert). The Lakes and Desert Courses annually rank in Golf Magazine's top 100 public course listing. For reservations at Primm Valley Golf Club, call (702) 679-5510.

Beginning in October, Shadow Creek will begin accepting tee times in anticipation of the December reopening.

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Las Vegas - Monday, April 28, 2008

Award-Winning Spa & Salon Bellagio Offers Innovative Design and Treatments

Media Contact: Sandy Zanella
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7530
zanellas@mgmmirage.com



AWARD-WINNING SPA & SALON BELLAGIO OFFERS
INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND TREATMENTS


LAS VEGAS – Soothing water, glowing candles and elements of the earth balanced with contemporary architecture create the stage for a pampering and rejuvenating experience not soon forgotten at Spa & Salon Bellagio.
The architectural features of the spa reveal an overall design based on the natural philosophies of Zen. Sleek, clean lines combine with natural materials such as travertine, granite, bleached walnut and onyx to balance a contemporary feel with the warmth of natural elements. Honoring the origins of the word spa from the Latin words salus per aquam (which means health by water), reflecting pools, water walls and illuminated aqua-colored glass are used throughout. Accents of Nephrite Jade and hand-blown glass also are incorporated into the décor. The result is a space that is both inviting and soothing.
The unique, tranquil surroundings are just the beginning of this spa experience. Spa Bellagio’s menu incorporates a fusion of treatments discovered around the world and perfected at the resort. Some of the more distinct services include: Tropical Enzyme Escape; Thai Yoga Massage; Indian Head Massage; and Ashiatsu Massage, Shiatsu massage performed with the feet. Ideal for those with tight muscles, the Watsu treatment is a stretching massage performed in a special pool with water warmed to body temperature. Also known as Water Shiatsu, the treatment is derived from a Japanese healing technique.
Recognizing the growing interest of men in spas, Bellagio created amenities and a treatment menu specifically for men, one of the fastest growing segments of spa goers. The men’s spa area features two added bonuses – its own outdoor relaxation balcony overlooking the pool and a “Shy Guy” treatment room. Within Salon Bellagio, a private Barber Room provides Straight Razor Shaves using steamed towels and Art of Shaving products.
With group “spa-ing” on the rise for brides/bridesmaids, mother/daughter excursions, and friends looking for a weekend getaway, several areas within Spa & Salon Bellagio were designed with groups in mind. To enhance the fun, the Watsu Room, Meditation Room and secluded manicure/pedicure areas allow for beverages and food to be served upon request.
For guests focused on maintaining their fitness regime when traveling, Spa Bellagio makes it easy, featuring a 6,000-square-foot Fitness Center overlooking the pool and Mediterranean gardens. A separate check-in, a secure locker area for small items, and state-of-the-art treadmills, bikes, elliptical trainers and Pilates equipment are among the amenities. Flat-screen televisions located within mirrored walls help create an environment that makes getting in shape feel almost effortless. The Bamboo Studio, a 1,000-square-foot exercise room complete with bamboo flooring, was designed for classes ranging from Cardio Boot Camp and Body Sculpt to Pilates and Yoga.
To continue the experience at home, 12 of the world's best spa and beauty product lines, including Pevonia, Phytoceane, Nars, Cellex C and Kérastase, used in the Spa & Salon are available for purchase. In addition, Spa Bellagio's private label line features salt and sugar scrubs, massage oils and shower gels. Bellagio’s body butter is offered in five signature flavors: Pomegranate, Green Tea, Oatmeal Honey, Honey Papaya and Chai Tea.

Features of Spa & Salon Bellagio:
● DESIGN - The overall design of this luxurious 55,000-square-foot spa is Zen-influenced, balancing natural elements of earth (granite and shellstone), water (water walls and Watsu), fire (candles) and wind (fans) with clean, sleek features.
● FUSION – The spa’s eclectic international menu features treatments from Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, India and Bali. Native American traditions also are incorporated.
● VARIETY – The spa’s 56 treatment rooms include 12 Skin Care Rooms with private showers, four Ashiatsu and two Thai Yoga Massage Rooms, two Vichy Rooms, two Hydrotherapy Rooms, a Watsu Room and four Couple’s Rooms.
● FITNESS – The Bamboo Room, a 1,000-square-foot fitness studio, offers daily classes including Body Sculpt, Cardio Boot Camp, B Boxing, Pilates and Yoga; state-of-the-art Fitness Center features 20 treadmills with individual televisions, 10 cross-trainers, 49 strength stations, and 11 cycling stations; flat-screen televisions located within a wall of mirrors; and 65 ceiling fans to keep things cool when the workout heats up.
● MEDITATION ROOM WITH A TWIST – Water walls surround the serene Meditation Room of Spa Bellagio. Candles, placed within these walls, offer a warm glow and accentuate the flowing water. This quiet respite is an ideal place to read, meditate or simply relax.
● SALON – The Salon’s artistic directors, well-known Las Vegas stylist Stuart Matthew and stylist Araceli Blandon, oversee this dynamic 10,000-square-foot salon with 18 stations. Features include a Barber Room with straight razor shaves using steamed towels and Art of Shaving products, a waxing and facial room, a Private Mani/Pedi Room for guests who like that extra special treatment, two Couple’s Mani/Pedi Rooms, and a “pamper party” area. Among the many special packages, Salon Bellagio’s Mother & Daughter Package, Girlfriends’ Polynesian Package and the Couple’s Pampering Package are sure to create lasting memories. Other services include airbrush makeup, a microdermabrasion foot treatment and a luminous pearl manicure incorporating crushed pearl powder.
● PORTABLE SPA-ING – Massages are available in poolside cabanas, and in-room massages can be scheduled upon request.

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Las Vegas - Monday, April 07, 2008

Bellagio Unveils Stunning New Suite Designs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Rebecca Ingram Frisch
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7531 (office)
ringram@mgmmirage.com


BELLAGIO UNVEILS STUNNING NEW SUITE DESIGNS

LAS VEGAS – The first Las Vegas casino hotel in AAA history to earn Five Diamond status, Bellagio once again raises the bar for excellence with a contemporary $60 million suite redesign that reflects the feel of an upscale residence while providing the comforts of a luxury resort.
Located in the Bellagio Tower, the dramatic new look of seven suite types – Salone, Bellagio, Cypress, Tower, Penthouse, Lakeview and Grand Lakeview – combines high styling with high-tech amenities. Each of the resort’s 512 suites now create a welcoming statement through sumptuous textiles, dark woods and a rich, neutral color palette. Soothing hues of beige and espresso are accented with vivid color from deep reds to vibrant ambers. Cool Italian marble provides the perfect contrast to warm mahogany furnishings while breathtaking views of Las Vegas seamlessly balance the drama of contemporary works of art.
Proving its commitment to exceeding guest expectations, Bellagio offers such indulgent in-suite conveniences as high-speed Internet access, iHome clock radios, DVD players, multi-line phones, fax machines and flat-screen, high-definition televisions. Additional amenities include laptop safes, fully stocked minibars, automatic draperies, plush slippers and robes as well as twice-daily housekeeping visits including nightly turndown service.
Pairing high-tech amenities with the warmth of home, Bellagio’s stunning suite redesign exemplifies the beauty, elegance and luxury for which the resort is known.


“Guests of Bellagio expect the very best and the new suite décor envisioned by MGM MIRAGE Design Group will impress even the most discerning customer,” said Bellagio President Randy Morton. “From the comfort of lavish furnishings to the ease of modern technology, no detail has been overlooked.”
Suites can be reserved by calling Bellagio Room Reservations at (888) 987-6667 or by going online to www.bellagio.com. Rates range from $450 to $8,000 a night.

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*High-resolution images available upon request.

Las Vegas - Monday, March 10, 2008

With Newest Inductee, Bellagio Becomes Home to Most Master Sommeliers in the World

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACTS: Andrea Brown
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7534

Susan Hosmer
Bullfrog & Baum
(323) 651-1380


WITH NEWEST INDUCTEE, BELLAGIO BECOMES HOME
TO MOST MASTER SOMMELIERS IN THE WORLD

LAS VEGAS – Bellagio is proud to announce the induction of Joseph Phillips of Sensi into the Court of Master Sommeliers. Phillips becomes the fourth of Bellagio’s already impressive team of Master Sommeliers, joining Robert Smith of Picasso, Jason Smith of MICHAEL MINA Bellagio, and Director of Wine Robert Bigelow. This honor further validates Bellagio’s commitment to excellence and establishes the record for the most Master Sommeliers at a single property anywhere in the world.

“We’re proud of Joseph achieving this rare accomplishment which recognizes our team’s desire to be the best in the industry,” Director of Wine Robert Bigelow said. “This recent distinction solidifies Bellagio’s wine program among the finest.”


Home to a record 18 sommeliers, four of whom are female, Bellagio has become a place where aspiring sommeliers become masters. Believing you can’t sell it if you haven’t seen it and touched it, training at Bellagio focuses on seminars, frequent tastings and travel.


Considered the highest honor among wine professionals, the title of Master Sommelier recognizes the utmost level of wine and spirits knowledge. Three levels of training must be completed before pursuing the Master Sommelier diploma: Introductory Sommelier, Certified Sommelier and Advanced Sommelier. Upon completion of these courses, candidates are required to pass a rigorous 3-part exam, testing the extent of their knowledge. The test consists of written exams, service exams as well as blind tastings.


Known for its dedication to personal and attentive wine service, Bellagio caters to a variety of palates, occasions and budgets. Bellagio sells more wine than any other hospitality outlet in the country, maintaining approximately 50,000 bottles, 5,000 selections and 250 wines by the glass at any given time. Bellagio also is able to secure entire allocations of a particular wine, contributing to the vastness and exclusivity of the selection.


In an effort to create a guest-centric wine experience, diners can request a bottle of wine from one restaurant at Bellagio while dining at another. The team of sommeliers share resources allowing them to locate bottles that do not exist in their own cellars and deliver them to guests within eight minutes.


Randy Morton, president and COO of Bellagio, said, “We will continue to offer our guests a transcendent wine experience that is accessible, educational and enjoyable. With this latest accomplishment, Bellagio continues to further its reputation as one of the premier resort destinations.”


# # #

- Friday, February 29, 2008

FIX Remains a Fixture on the Las Vegas Dining Scene

Media contacts:
Alex Acuna, The Light Group
(702) 693-8300 or aacuna@lightlv.com

Sarah Abell, Baltz & Company
(212) 982-8300 x108 sabell@baltzco.com

FIX Remains a Fixture on the Las Vegas Dining Scene
Classic American Cuisine with a Twist Featured at Bellagio

LAS VEGAS– Opened in 2004 by The Light Group, FIX Restaurant & Bar, located in the award-winning Bellagio Resort & Casino, continues to impress guests by offering a casual and fun alternative to the Strip’s more formal dining establishments. The intimate and beautifully Graft Labs designed restaurant and bar offers guests an approachable, high-quality menu with informed service in a fun and energetic environment.

The menu, created by The Light Group’s Corporate Executive Chef Brian Massie and overseen by Executive Chef Rene Charest, attracts diners looking for a pre-show meal or a lively, late-night dining experience by offering classic American cuisine reinterpreted for a modern audience. Signature items on the Fix menu include a BLT Wedge salad with pepper parmesan dressing; mini Lobster Tacos with grilled mango and fresh cilantro; a trio of aged Cheddar Kobe Sliders with spiced fries; and Veal Wellington in red wine sauce.

A selection of playful dishes to share includes Kobe Chili Cheese Fries, Fried Mac & Cheese, Tarte Flambé bacon and onion thin-crust pizza, and the one-of-a-kind Forks, which feature bite-sized Smoked Salmon, Osetra Caviar and Scallion Blini Poppers rolled up on the end of cocktail forks. For a sweet fix, desserts include the Shake & Cake, an espresso malt shake paired with a warm chocolate brownie cake, Doughnuts with dipping sauces, and a Traditional Root Beer Float served with fresh-baked cookies.

Fix’s beverage program features an extensive scotch, brandy and cognac list, in addition to dessert wines. The hand-crafted cocktail menu features drinks made with fresh juices and herbs, including a Pineapple Mojito made with fresh pineapple, mint and muddled lime; Impeared, with pear vodka, pear nectar, muddled pear and sage; and the Cosmo Fix, a twist on the classic made with white cranberry juice.

Graft Labs, the world-renowned design team, created a welcoming environment at FIX using signature design elements like Costa Rican padouk wood, layered to make a waved ceiling, diffused lighting and raised banquets to create an atmosphere where top-notch food and service are highlighted by a warm and intimate décor.

Fix is open Sunday to Thursday, 5 p.m. to midnight, and Friday and Saturdays, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. A private enclosed dining 24-seat room is also available for special events, corporate meetings, and parties. For reservations or more information, please call 702.693.8400.


About The Light Group
The Light Group is one of the nation's leading nightlife, restaurant, hospitality and lifestyle development organizations. Founded by Andrew Sasson
and his partner, Andy Masi, The Light Group's properties include The Bank Nightclub, FIX Restaurant & Bar and Caramel Bar & Lounge at Bellagio; JET Nightclub, STACK Restaurant & Bar and Bare Pool Lounge at The Mirage; Mist at Treasure Island, and Diablo's Cantina, a south-of-the-border eatery located at Monte Carlo. As operators of The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences (a high-end boutique hotel under construction at CityCenter), The Light Group is the first lifestyle company to fully embrace green practices setting the bar for responsible building, design and living. Coming this summer, The Light Group will open Brand, a fine dining steak house at Monte Carlo and Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar, an ultra-contemporary Japanese restaurant at Bellagio. For additional information, please visit www.lightgroup.com.

###

Las Vegas - Thursday, February 21, 2008

Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar Offers Unparalleled Dining Experience in Modern and Luxurious Atmosphere

Media contacts:
Sarah Abell, Baltz & Company
(212) 982-8300 x108, sabell@baltzco.com
Randee Braham, Baltz & Company
(212) 982-8300 x106, rbraham@baltzco.com

Alex Acuna, The Light Group
(702) 693-8300, aacuna@lightlv.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar Offers Unparalleled
Dining Experience in Modern and Luxurious Atmosphere

Bellagio Welcomes Japanese Culinary Destination Hot Spot This Summer

LAS VEGAS, February 20, 2008 – The Light Group, Las Vegas’ premier restaurant and nightlife organization, raises its culinary portfolio once again with the addition of Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar. Scheduled to open this summer at Bellagio Resort & Casino, just steps away from The Light Group’s chic Caramel Bar & Lounge, FIX Restaurant & Bar and sophisticated nightclub The Bank, Yellowtail will offer an extensive Japanese menu of fresh, ingredient-driven cuisine for both the sushi novice and connoisseur in a sumptuous and highly stylized surrounding.

Overlooking Bellagio’s iconic lake in which fountains perform a magnificent aquatic ballet choreographed to music and lights, Yellowtail’s stunning and sleek ambiance will set the stage for award-winning chef Akira Back’s menu of authentic traditional and modern Japanese cuisine dishes. Seasonal fish and ingredients flown in daily from the finest markets and purveyors around the world will be showcased in sushi, sashimi, tempura and hand rolls. A multi-course Omakase menu, which translates to “entrust,” will afford the opportunity to sample Back’s best culinary creations composed of small dishes. Combining world-class cuisine and an inventive chic dining experience, Yellowtail will be Las Vegas’ go-to Japanese dining hot spot.

Designed by the world-renowned Rockwell Group of New York City, Yellowtail’s elegant wood and stone decor will foster a vibrant atmosphere and its intimate size will exude exclusivity. The restaurant’s signature design element, a 25-by-13-foot, wall-mounted installation at the entrance, will be created using bronze metal scales that resemble the dorsal side of the eponymous fish. The dining room will offer a cozy setting with screens composed of woven twigs set inside antique brass frames. Diners seeking the quintessential Las Vegas experience will enjoy the excitement of The Strip from a patio overlooking Bellagio’s famed fountain show.

The design of Yellowtail’s menu will encourage sharing and mimics Chef Back’s culinary philosophy “to bring happiness to my guests by creating a memorable experience through food.” Accessible and fun shared plates will include Toro Sashimi with caviar and microgreens; Yellowtail with Serrano peppers, cilantro and yuzu-kosho, a condiment made from the zest of yuzu blended with chili peppers and salt.

Warm shared plates include farm-raised, grain-fed Jidori Chicken, popular with Japanese chefs, prepared with sweet Japanese garlic, potato puree, baby root vegetables and teriyaki; and Grilled Walu, Hawaiian Butterfish with shiitake mushrooms, pearl onions and tosa sauce, a bonito-flavored vinegar and soy sauce mixture.

In addition to traditional raw fish preparations, Chef Back will create a selection of innovative dishes inspired by his global travels as a professional snowboarder and experiences working with industry greats, such as Nobu and Morimoto. These dishes include Big Eye Tuna Pizza with shiso, an aromatic mint-like herb popular in Japan; and Maine Lobster Carpaccio with sweet onion and cilantro. Washu beef, a domestic breed of Kobe, will be featured on Yellowtail’s menu in three different preparations, while Japanese Kobe beef and Washugyu beef will be offered in tenderloin or rib-eye cuts, seared in hot oil, marinated in balsamic teriyaki, or cooked using the traditional tataki method.

Yellowtail will offer a hand-selected extensive sake collection, encompassing several different types from the classic to the avant-garde representing many prefectures from across Japan. Large bottles of sake and souchu also will be displayed at the 18-seat bar where illuminated rice paper and colorful photos of Japanese flowers will offer a warm glow. A selection of wine, beer and signature cocktails, including the exotic yuzu-infused Peridot or the light and refreshing Asian Pear will complement the menu.

Yellowtail will offer a 180-seat dining room, 30-seat intimate lounge, and 30-seat private dining room. Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant & Bar will be open 7 days a week for lunch from noon to 3 p.m.; dinner will be available 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, and 5 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. For more information, please visit www.lightgroup.com.


About The Light Group
The Light Group is one of the nation’s leading nightlife, restaurant, hospitality and lifestyle development organizations. Founded by Andrew Sasson and his partner, Andy Masi, The Light Group’s properties include The Bank Nightclub, FIX Restaurant & Bar and Caramel Bar & Lounge at Bellagio; JET Nightclub, STACK Restaurant & Bar and Bare Pool Lounge at The Mirage; Mist at Treasure Island, and Diablo’s Cantina, a south-of-the-border eatery located at Monte Carlo. As operators of The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences (a high-end boutique hotel under construction at CityCenter), The Light Group is the first lifestyle company to fully embrace green practices setting the bar for responsible building, design and living. In May 2008, The Light Group will open BRAND Steakhouse, a contemporary American steakhouse at Monte Carlo. For additional information, please visit www.lightgroup.com.

# # #

Las Vegas - Friday, February 01, 2008

SENSI ~ DINING DRAMA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contacts:
Andrea Brown
MGM MIRAGE
(702) 650-7534

Susan Hosmer
Bullfrog & Baum
(323) 651-1380



SENSI ~ DINING DRAMA
Where All The Kitchen’s A Stage

LAS VEGAS – Sensi invites guests on a sensual journey through an innovative approach to dining drama. Executive Chef Martin Heierling draws on his vast international experience to devise a menu based on four complementary cuisines - Italian, Asian, American and seafood classics – all prepared simply and focused with pure, balanced flavors. To spotlight Chef Heierling’s straightforward approach, Japanese design firm Super Potato crafted a unique, interactive ‘stage’ setup through minimalist, earthy décor. Together they create culinary theater destined to satisfy the personal inclinations of every guest.
Through open kitchens bustling with activity, a myriad of appealing aromas, tempting flavors and stone and water design elements, all of the senses come alive. This stimulation of the senses embodies the derivation of the restaurant’s name – Sensi comes from the Italian word for senses “senzi.”
Sensi’s menu reflects Chef Heierling’s belief in traditional dishes that are ingredient-driven and unembellished. “My menu features authentic, regional dishes made from superior yet basic ingredients,” said Heierling. “The goal is food that is recognizable – grounded, bold and flavorful.”
Sensi takes the best dishes from an array of destinations and cuisines and puts them on one menu. “If you’ve ever wished you could sample that tantalizing dish you’ve seen prepared on your favorite cooking show – this is the place to dine,” said Michael Downs, vice president of Hotel Operations at the AAA Five Diamond Bellagio. “Chefs produce a personal masterpiece for each guest. Today’s diners are fascinated by the cooking techniques of a multitude of countries.”

Diners watch naan and Chicken Tikka plunge into a red-hot tandoori oven on the Asian stage or contemplate the split-second timing of a Seared Tuna Tataki, raw inside when sliced and served with a Ginger-Citrus glaze. On the Italian stage, Foccacia with Vacherin Cheese and Black Truffles are slipped into a wood fire oven and baked fresh to order.
Here, delicate risotto techniques can be studied as well, and the freshness of pasta is verified as it sinks into a boiling bath. Guests see Kumamotos and Blue Points deftly shucked in a wink on the Raw stage, and Ahi Tuna Ceviche “cooked” just so in Lime Juice with Coconut and Cilantro. And at the grill, behold the Kansas City Steak, cooked to perfection.
Complementing the menu, Sensi’s wine list focuses on regionalism, showcasing bold and unique wines. Southern Hemisphere wines are emphasized, particularly those from Australia and New Zealand, Chef Heierling’s adopted homeland. The balance of the list concentrates on the world’s greatest wine areas such as Tuscany and Piedmont in Italy, the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer in Germany, the Wachau in Austria, Burgundy, Washington state and California’s finest selections.
Design team Super Potato conjured up this distinctive dining design incorporating four open kitchens in a sunken arena in the middle of the dining room, providing diners an intimate proximity to expert preparation techniques in action. When guests order a dish, they witness its creation.
All of this activity is played out in a setting of cool, clean stone and streaming water elements. Super Potato installed stone works of naturally aging Japanese Aji ranging from boulder-size monoliths to fragile, slender slabs. Juxtaposing sections of rough-hewn texture and high-polished sheen provide the vehicle for thin, descending sheets of water and calm, trickling streams. This natural theme guides Sensi’s décor throughout, via the sensuality of wood, glass and earth tones.
Sensi also features two chef’s tables on opposing sides of the kitchen complex, seating up to six and eight. These unique, single-piece tabletops - one wood, one stone - were hand-chiseled and carved by monks with intent to preserve the delicate imperfections of the natural materials. Vulnerable, organic wood balance impenetrable, staid stone – yin and yang, anima and animus.
Through Sensi’s luxurious textures of stone and wood, its sounds of running water and sizzling grills, mingling aromas and euphoric flavors, and the lively chatter among guests and chefs –guests never leave unstimulated.

# # #

- Friday, February 01, 2008

Chocolate Fountain at Jean-Philippe Patisserie

For Immediate Release

Media Contacts:
Andrea Brown
MGM MIRAGE
(702) 650-7534

Susan Hosmer
Bullfrog & Baum
(323) 651-1380

DISCOVER A FOUNTAIN OF YOUTHFUL DELIGHTS
WITH A CHOCOLATE CASCADE AT BELLAGIO
Jean Philippe Pâtisserie introduces a first-of-its-kind free-standing fountain of melted chocolate

LAS VEGAS – From far down Bellagio’s promenade, a mesmerizing figure entices curious guests with visual splendor and aromatic wafts: jutting out into the main corridor like the prow of a ship is a glass-enclosed, floor-to-ceiling chocolate fountain emerging from Jean Philippe Pâtisserie. Displaying a spectacular series of melted chocolate cascades, this first-of-its-kind spectacle is the tallest chocolate fountain in the world.
Designed by award-winning Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Philippe Maury and Norwood and Antonia Oliver Design Associates, Inc., the fountain took a year and a half in planning and design. The result is a genius work of kinetic sculpture and a daring feat of engineering. Standing 27-feet tall, the masterpiece circulates nearly two tons of melted dark, milk and white chocolate at a rate of 120 quarts per minute.
“I’ve been creating sculptures out of chocolate for years, but exploring the particular properties of melted chocolate has been fascinating,” said Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Philippe Maury. “Each of the three types of chocolate behave very differently, and we had to be aware of this in the design. It’s been a wonderful challenge!”
The visual impact of the fountain is as compelling as its chocolate is appetizing: six spouts in the ceiling initiate the lyrical descent of rich dark, velvety milk and glistening white chocolate streams through a maze of 25 suspended glass vessels. Cast in ½-inch thick, rough-hewn aqua glass and held in position by anchoring cables, each vessel was built to precise size, shape and design by Montreal artist Michel Mailhot. Some oblong, some rounded, each irregular, the vessels hover mobile-like to capture and coax the paths of free-falling liquid chocolate.
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Three rivers of dark, two of milk and one of white twist and swirl from vessel to vessel, flood across then spill down to the next carefully positioned receptacle. The colored streams and vessels are staggered, creating a mosaic effect in earthy shades of cocoa, gleaming viscous surfaces and refracted light. Having finished their acrobatic tumble down the tiers of this colossal chandelier, each rivulet funnels into hidden melting tanks, recollects and begins the journey once more.
Surrounding all this glory is a protective, multi-faceted cloak of 300-pound glass panels that rise in a funnel shape as the fountain expands toward the ceiling.
“We’ve made glass a central design component of both the fountain and the Pâtisserie,” said Designer Norwood Oliver. “Glass maximizes the visibility of chocolate’s color and the multiple cascades as they flow from vessel to vessel. Glass also was an ideal medium to take the fountain’s physical presentation to another level - sculpture.”
Built under Oliver and Chef Maury’s guidance by Perfect Équipements of Montreal, the fountain’s power plant is an elaborate system of pipes, pumps and valves located beneath the floor of the Pâtisserie. There, three tanks of chocolate – dark, milk and white – melts to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Six pumps join forces to transport the molten delight to the top of the fountain through two-inch diameter, stainless-steel pipes hidden within the walls of the shop. Surrounding each pipe is an additional three-inch pipe through which flows hot oil to keep the chocolate thinned as it journeys up the wall to make its entrance. More than 500 feet of these double pipes circulate chocolate 24 hours a day. From the tank room below to the pipes above, the fountain’s full height is 27-feet, yet only 14-feet is visible within the shop.
“The scope of this team’s vision and their expertise are nothing short of genius,” said Randy Morton, president of Bellagio. “Jean Philippe Pâtisserie will become a sightseeing destination in itself and is a stellar addition to Bellagio’s collection of elegant amenities. This one-of-a-kind fountain, Chef Maury’s exquisite confections and the refined elegance of the décor and packaging all combine to make an experience our guests will never forget.”

# # #

Las Vegas - Friday, February 01, 2008

The Jewel Box of Pâtisseries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contacts:
Andrea Brown
MGM MIRAGE
(702) 650-7534

Susan Hosmer
Bullfrog & Baum
(323) 651-1380



THE JEWEL BOX OF PÂTISSERIES

Bellagio’s Jean-Philippe Pâtisserie Offers Edible Gems


LAS VEGAS – With the opulence and reverent air of a lavish jewelry salon, Jean-Philippe Pâtisserie is the first truly European-style pastry shop to Las Vegas. Located within Bellagio, the Pâtisserie whets the imagination as much as the appetite with an incredible selection of sweet and savory items including chocolates, cookies, cakes, crepes, salads, sandwiches and more.
Jean-Philippe Pâtisserie has been a dream of Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Philippe Maury for years. With the assistance of designer Norwood Oliver, Maury presents a multitude of gourmet delicacies in an equally delicious design setting. “Our approach was not to think that we were selling pastries,” said award winning chef Maury of the design plan. “Rather, we approached the space as if we were selling exquisite jewelry. Pleasure in food is stimulated as much by visual appreciation as by our taste buds. It is imperative; however, that the quality of my creations live up to the expectations invited by the visual allure of the packaging. It must be superb!”
At Jean-Philippe Pâtisserie, each chocolate, petits fours and cookie is dressed and displayed as lovingly as any bejeweled engagement ring. Showcased on four rotating shelf-towers, each imaginable cake, chocolate creation and non-pareils is set to catch the light to sparkle like diamonds.


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Randy Morton, president of Bellagio, said, “Jean-Philippe’s balance of refined aesthetic taste and whimsical curiosities on such a truly grand scale are like nothing our guests have seen before. Chef Maury’s vision and ability are unsurpassed.”
While most pastry chefs specialize in a single area, Jean-Philippe has mastered all aspects. He boasts a career filled with honors and accolades, including the prestigious Gold Medal from the 2002 World Pastry Team Championship, the ultimate of pastry competitions. Jean-Philippe possesses an appetite for innovation that can be witnessed in every element of his dream Pâtisserie.
His pastry shop features seven interactive food sections presenting an array of tempting delights where patrons may indulge their cravings. The Crepe Station provides a gourmet version of the classic French street-stall snack. Chefs cook them to order, savory or sweet. At the Sandwich Station customers select from an array of cold sandwiches, salads and warm paninis, such as Supreme Grilled Chicken with balsamic caramelized onions and provolone. The low-fat Spa Menu helps waist-minded guests maintain their resolve, as does a variety of sugar-free sweets including the Three Layer Chocolate Napoleon.
Full-size cakes from the Cake Station can be boxed to go and lavishly coifed at the Gift Wrap Station, while the Sorbet and Gelato Station provides cooling splashes of color with a variety of 16 flavors.
Jean-Philippe Pâtisserie is the ideal way to begin the morning. With a Nutella Brioche filled with caramelized hazelnuts at the Danish Station and a piping hot mug of Jean-Philippe’s exclusive house coffee blend, cappuccino or espresso, the day kicks off to a sweet and pleasurable start.
Retail shelving along the perimeter of the store completes this full-service wonderland: biscotti, truffles, macaroons and chocolates, colorful jellies and jams, exotic coffees and teas, all from Jean-Philippe’s or Bellagio’s private labels. An interactive, touch-screen video allows guests to peruse images of items available by special order.
The setting of the Pâtisserie is as stunning as the tempting offerings. Clear glass floors cover more than 1,000 square feet of space, hovering, ethereal as a sugary glaze, over gleaming copper leaf rippling into woven strands. High-gloss walls of crystallized glass enfold the space in a hue and texture reminiscent of fine translucent porcelain.
Caught in the glow of lighting fit for a stage set, the interior twinkles like a starscape, creating mesmerizing effects from every angle. Sensually curving walls temper the use of bold materials as crisp glass, copper and stainless steel extends their delicate, clean lines via cabinets, railings and counters.

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Dining stools and counters strategically nestled throughout the store provide seating for up to 20. A plasma screen overhead offers a peek at the creativity behind it all, showcasing Chef Maury’s deft skills in action.
Chef Maury said, “Everyone who walks into the store will be dazzled, there is so much to look at, so much to grab your attention. What I am after is the ‘aha-effect’ – that feeling of discovery when something new and wonderful catches your eye, and then another, and another!”

# # #

- Thursday, January 31, 2008

Bellagio and Spa Bellagio Honoree of 2008 Mobil Stars

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE





JOËL ROBUCHON AT MGM GRAND, BELLAGIO AND SPA BELLAGIO

AMONG MGM MIRAGE HONOREES OF 2008 MOBIL STARS



LAS VEGAS – Celebrating 50 years as a trusted travel resource, Mobil Travel Guide today announced its 2008 Mobil Five- and Four-Star winners.

Earning top honors is the two-time, Mobil Five-Star Award-winning Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand. This rating recognizes Joël Robuchon among the top restaurants in the United States and Canada for 2008. Only 17 restaurants in North America received Mobil Five-Stars for 2008; two of those are in Las Vegas.

Culinary history was made in Las Vegas in September 2005 when legendary Chef Joël Robuchon opened his first fine dining restaurant in the United States at MGM Grand. Since opening, his eponymous restaurant has received the Mobil Five-Star, Michelin Three Star and AAA Five Diamond Awards – the top accolades for each of these organizations.

Mobil Travel Guide, originator of the prestigious Mobil Stars and providing comprehensive ratings and reviews of hotels, restaurants and spas in the United States and Canada since 1958, also named Spa Bellagio as one of only 84 spas to achieve the 2008 Four-Star Award. The rating represents spas that provide a luxurious experience with expanded amenities in an elegant and serene environment.

The growing spa industry is evolving in Las Vegas, and Spa Bellagio is leading the way with 55,000 square feet of treatment space, an international array of innovative services and an expert staff.

Other Mobil Four-Star recipients include Bellagio for lodgings and the following MGM MIRAGE restaurants – Aureole and miX at Mandalay Bay and MICHAEL MINA and Picasso at Bellagio.

“Consumers today are inundated with an influx of consumer reviews, online booking engine star ratings and self imposed ratings by properties. Much of this information is conflicting in nature making it difficult for the consumer to make an informed travel decision. For the past 50 years, Mobil Travel Guide has been the trusted source in travel ratings and expert reviews, steering travelers in the right direction,” said Shane O’Flaherty, President and CEO for Mobil Travel Guide. “We are thrilled to share this landmark year with travelers across the world and look forward to another fantastic 50 years.”

Mobil Travel Guide’s ratings process is based on more than 750 standardized criteria for hotels, more than 250 for restaurants, and more recently, 450 different criteria for spas, making it the most rigorous and comprehensive in the industry. Only those that meet or exceed Mobil’s bar-setting service standards, which are determined through an unannounced, undercover service evaluation conducted by Mobil Travel Guide’s expert inspectors achieve Mobil Five- or Four-Star status.

A detailed explanation of Mobil Travel Guide’s industry-leading ratings process and comprehensive reviews for each of the award winners by Mobil Travel Guide’s incognito experts can be found online at www.mobiltravelguide.com.

For more information on resorts, restaurants and spas of MGM MIRAGE, visit www.mgmmirage.com.

# # #



MEDIA CONTACT:

Sandy Zanella

MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7530

zanellas@mgmmirage.com

Las Vegas - Monday, January 07, 2008

The Bank Nightclub at Bellagio Brings a New Level of Luxury to Las Vegas Nightlife

Media contacts:
Shane Tarleton, Lisa Long Adler Communications, 917-549-6071, shane@llac.com
Alex Acuna, The Light Group, 702-693-8300, aacuna@lightlv.com

For Immediate Release:

The Bank Nightclub at Bellagio Brings a New Level of
Luxury to Las Vegas Nightlife

LAS VEGAS – The Light Group, renowned for shaping the nightlife landscape on the Las Vegas Strip, opened its latest nightclub concept, The Bank at Bellagio. With this elegant, intimate and exclusive nightclub, The Light Group once again transforms the nightlife experience in Las Vegas, raising the bar of sophistication and luxury.

Catering to a discerning audience with higher sensibilities, the exquisitely designed space at The Bank encompasses everything a guest at the AAA Five Diamond Bellagio has come to expect. Guests enter through a grandiose foyer adorned with bottles of Cristal stacked floor-to-ceiling on each wall. The space is topped off by a champagne glass ceiling fixture which reflects a kaleidoscope of light and colors. The nightclub’s main room presents a dramatic aerial perspective: elegant VIP booths layer the dance floor in an impressive multi-tiered environment. The dance floor, set at the lowest tier, is slightly raised and bordered by reflective translucent glass creating a brilliant focal point in the center of the room. Two full bars, positioned at either side of the club, offers a wide array of libations and fine liquors, while a raised DJ booth overlooking the dance floor at the center of the room is the source of energy and excitement.

Offering unrivaled service in a high-energy atmosphere, the chic and stunning 8,000 square foot space sets The Bank apart from the traditional multi-room cavernous clubs that cater to the masses. The Light Group, known for setting the standard for service, offers the most refined bottle service in Las Vegas. Each table receives a personal service team, led by a cocktail server -- adorned in an elegant gold cocktail dress -- who commands the bottle service experience.

Attention to detail abounds with combinations of rich textures and modern elements which create a harmoniously paired aesthetic. A resplendent palette of colors complements The Bank’s intricate details creating a luxurious yet contemporary vibe. Vivid, custom-designed ambient and mood lighting on both the ceiling and floor creates an ultra-sensory experience. Translucent etched glass railing reflects one-of-a-kind fiber optic lighting that pulsates with the music. A state-of-the-art sound system brings the club to life while the world’s premier DJs spin the best in hip-hop, rock and eclectic mash-ups.

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The Bank Opening Release/…2

The Bank’s Managing Partners are New York club owner, international promoter and actor Danny A and The Light Group’s Jodi Myers. Danny A, a nightlife impresario among the world’s most exclusive club scenes and part owner of New York hot-spot Upstairs, and Myers, a six year VIP-marketing veteran, will oversee the venue’s overall operations, marketing and brand development.

“The Bank is a world-class nightclub sure to exceed the expectations of even the most discriminating of guests,” said Myers.

“Just as Bellagio is known for world-class service and sophistication, The Bank offers unsurpassed service in a luxurious nightlife setting,” said Randy Morton, president of Bellagio.

The Bank is available for private events seven nights a week for groups of 200 to 1000 people. With fully customized video capabilities and state-of-the-art sound and lights, The Bank can be specifically tailored to any group’s needs.

The Bank is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. Admission charge is $50.

For additional information, please visit www.lightgroup.com. For private events, contact Maggie Garcia, The Light Group’s Director of Sales, at (702) 693-8300.

# # #

About The Light Group
The Light Group is one of the nation’s leading nightlife, restaurant, hospitality and lifestyle development organizations. Founded by Andrew Sasson and his partner, Andy Masi, The Light Group’s properties include FIX Restaurant & Bar and Caramel Bar & Lounge at Bellagio; JET Nightclub, STACK Restaurant & Bar and Bare Pool Lounge at The Mirage; Mist at Treasure Island, and Diablo’s Cantina, a south-of-the-border eatery located at Monte Carlo. This New Year’s Eve, The Light Group will unveil a revolutionary nightlife concept with The Bank Nightclub currently taking shape at Bellagio. As developers and operators of The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences (a high-end boutique hotel under construction at CityCenter), The Light Group is the first lifestyle company to fully embrace green practices setting the bar for responsible building, design and living. Coming next year The Light Group will open Brand, a fine dining steak house at Monte Carlo and an ultra-contemporary Japanese restaurant at Bellagio. For additional information, please visit www.lightgroup.com.

Las Vegas - Friday, January 04, 2008

The Art of Richard MacDonald Presented By Cirque Du Soleil

THE ART OF RICHARD MACDONALD PRESENTED BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Sculpture Gallery in the “O” Theatre Lobby


Las Vegas – The sculptures of Richard MacDonald featuring circus and performance artists are exhibited and available for purchase in the newly redesigned “O” Theatre lobby at Bellagio.

The gallery was born out of a relationship between Guy Laliberté, Founder of Cirque du Soleil, and Richard MacDonald, a master of figurative sculpture. MacDonald feels that he and Laliberté are “similar in life long creative goals.” His work focuses on the spectrum of performing life, capturing a fleeting moment in time and immortalizing the grace, strength, joy and discipline of dancers and acrobats. His work shares the creativity and imagination that fuels Cirque du Soleil and conveys MacDonald’s sense of energy and passion.

“The art of Richard MacDonald reveals the infinite beauty of the human body. The characters he creates are playing forever in the theatre of life,” says Laliberté.

Cirque du Soleil presents MacDonald’s works in an exclusive, permanent exhibition at Bellagio. The “O” Theatre lobby has transformed to showcase over 50 bronze sculptures along with original drawings, serigraphs and lithographs. Bellagio, home to “O” and known for world class exhibitions of art, is the perfect location for the gallery.

The gallery is open to the public from 10 am – 5:30 pm Wednesday through Sunday and from 10 am – 11 pm on Monday and Tuesday. In addition, the gallery is open from 6:30 pm to 12:30 am for the millions of audience members and fans of the aquatic masterpiece, “O”.

About Cirque du Soleil
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a major international organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. Since its founding, Cirque du Soleil has thrilled over 70 million spectators in close to 200 cities on five continents. In Las Vegas, Cirque du Soleil has a privileged partnership with MGM MIRAGE to create and present unique and innovative productions. In addition to “O”, Cirque du Soleil presents Mystère® at Treasure Island, ZUMANITY™, The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil at New York-New York, KÀ™ at MGM Grand and the show celebrating The Beatles™, LOVE™, at The Mirage. For more information, visit the Cirque du Soleil website at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

About Richard MacDonald
Richard MacDonald has dedicated his life to creating works of art that reaffirm all that is best in humanity. MacDonald has achieved international distinction for his sculpture, paintings, and drawings, and has been the recipient of innumerable national and international awards. Celebrating realism and the expressive power of figurative sculpture, his work harnesses the sensuous physicality of humanity’s heroic spirit. His work has been exhibited worldwide including Japan, Korea, Italy, the Corcoran Gallery in Washington D.C. and can be seen in galleries throughout the United States including Dawson Cole Fine Art with locations throughout California. For more information on the artist visit www.richardmacdonald.com.


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MEDIA CONTACT:
Ann Paladie
Publicist, Cirque du Soleil
Phone: 702 352 0226
Email: ann.paladie@cirquedusoleil.com

Las Vegas - Wednesday, January 02, 2008

Spa Bellagio Offers Knockout Custom Workout

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Rebecca Ingram Frisch
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7531 (office)
ringram@mgmmirage.com


SPA BELLAGIO OFFERS KNOCKOUT CUSTOM WORKOUT

New Fitness Class Great Way to Punch Up Exercise Routine

LAS VEGAS – Now the athlete in your life can have a custom-designed fitness experience fit for a champ. Spa Bellagio’s new “B Box” class offers an energizing, cardiovascular workout sure to be a hit.

The 50-minute session combines traditional boxing equipment with the high-energy demands of a boot camp to burn calories, build stamina and develop muscles. The lesson begins with a five-minute warm-up, ranging from jumping rope to shadow boxing, to get the blood pumping. Next, five minutes of stretching prepares for the 35-minutes of non-stop, fancy footwork to come. That’s when boxing bags and focus mitts are used to achieve the ultimate adrenaline rush, an invigorating regime of one-two punches that build into a more intense series of three- and four-punch combos. A five-minute cool-down clinches this knockout bout held within Spa Bellagio’s 1,000-square-foot Bamboo Studio.

Trained boxing instructor Gary Biason created the circuit-based workout to offer a demanding, but attainable exercise challenge to guests of Spa Bellagio. Each course is customized to fit the fitness level of the participant. Biason graduated from California State University Northridge with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. He has more than nine years of fitness experience and is certified by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA).

Rates are $45 for group sessions and $75 for one-on-one lessons. Group sizes are limited to a maximum of four participants. Those interested in “B Box” may call Spa Bellagio at (702) 693-7472. Reservations may be made up to three months in advance.

Spa Bellagio is open to Bellagio guests Friday through Sunday and is available to non-hotel guests Monday through Thursday. Hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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- Wednesday, November 14, 2007

MGM MIRAGE Restaurants Awarded Michelin Stars

MGM MIRAGE RESTAURANTS AWARDED MICHELIN STARS HIGHLIGHTED BY
THREE-STAR HONORS FOR JOËL ROBUCHON AT MGM GRAND
Joël Robuchon Only Las Vegas Rest