Las Vegas - Friday, June 26, 2009

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
• The Executive Suite Lounge (Opened January 2009)
 Provides a new level of service and VIP treatment for discerning guests
 Private registration experience for guests who reserve a Bellagio suite*
 Complimentary amenities include airport limousine transportation*, concierge service, preferred seating at MGM MIRAGE entertainment venues and restaurants, and delectable refreshments in lounge, among others
 Complimentary business services include Wi-Fi access, faxing/printing/copying and boarding pass printing; laptops also are available for use in lounge
 Daily, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
 *Some exceptions apply
• Concierge available; Daily, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• AAA Five Diamond Award winner eight consecutive years (2002–2009); First Las Vegas hotel-casino and the largest resort in AAA history to receive the honor; Only hotel in the country for six consecutive years (2004-2009) 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, 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


“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 and service fees
• 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; Sunday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 7 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 (Mobil Four-Star, 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; Tuesday – Sunday, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• MICHAEL MINA Bellagio (Mobil Four-Star, Michelin one star) – Seafood; Dinner; Sunday – Thursday, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 5:30 p.m. – 10:45 p.m.
• Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge (Opened July 2008) – Modern Japanese; Daily; Dinner; Sunday – Thursday, 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 5 p.m. – midnight
• 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; Dinner; Monday – Thursday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday – Sunday, 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.; Bar, Daily, 3 p.m. – 5 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
• “Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends”
o On view January 23 – September 8, 2009
o Organized in partnership with Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
o Important paintings and sculpture by major contemporary artists including Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol and Frank Stella
• Gallery hours; Sunday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 7 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
• Membership programs provide unlimited access, no-line entry and members-only previews
o Memberships: $50 for Individual, $75 for Couple, $100 for Family, and $35 for Student, Teacher and Senior
• Modern Council, a fine art affinity program for budding collectors, offers exciting behind-the-scenes opportunities
o Membership provides access to artist lectures and meet-and-greets, private art tours, exclusive parties and art field trips
o Modern Council membership: $250 for Individual, $400 for Dual
• All 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 – 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.; Special menu by Circo, Monday – Thursday, 6 p.m. – 9 p.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 – Nightly, 5 p.m.; DJ spins Wednesday - Sunday, 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
• For guests of any of the MGM MIRAGE resorts in the Las Vegas area (Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, 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, 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
2002-2009 – AAA Five Diamond Award
2004-2009 – Only hotel in the country with two AAA Five Diamond restaurants
2004-2009 – 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
2004-2009 – Travel + Leisure;
One of the 500 Greatest Hotels and Resorts in the World
2008 The Sunday Times Travel Magazine (UK);
Reader Awards – #1 Best Worldwide Hotel


Restaurant Awards
Picasso 2008-2009 Michelin two stars, 2002-2009 AAA Five Diamond Award

Le Cirque 2008-2009 Michelin one star, 2004-2009 AAA Five Diamond Award

MICHAEL MINA 2008-2009 Michelin one star

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

Spa Awards
Spa Bellagio 2004-2009 Mobil Four-Star Award


Management
• MGM MIRAGE (NYSE: MGM), one of the world's leading and most respected companies with significant holdings in gaming, hospitality and entertainment, owns and operates 16 properties located in Nevada, Mississippi and Michigan, and has 50% investments in four other properties in Nevada, New Jersey, Illinois and Macau. CityCenter, an unprecedented urban metropolis on the Las Vegas Strip scheduled to open in late 2009, is a joint venture between MGM MIRAGE and Infinity World Development Corp, a subsidiary of Dubai World. MGM MIRAGE Hospitality has entered into management agreements for casino and non-casino resorts throughout the world. 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 Web site at http://www.mgmmirage.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Jenn Michaels
Public Relations
(702) 650-756

Las Vegas - Tuesday, June 02, 2009

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.
Discerning visitors are invited to indulge in the luxurious Executive Suite Lounge which offers a private registration and concierge experience, included with the reservation of a suite. From the moment they arrive, guests will enjoy personalized attention as well as complimentary amenities that include airport limousine transportation, spa/salon reservations and preferred seating at MGM MIRAGE entertainment venues and restaurants. Delectable refreshments also are provided to sate the travel-weary while the Lounge’s rich décor envelopes guests in the warmth of hand-stitched leather walls paired with golden wood accents. Striking views of the resort’s lush botanical front desk garden set the stage for the beauty about to be discovered.
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 also added a modern Japanese dining experience to its impressive culinary portfolio with Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge.
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 largest 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 – 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 grand foyer adorned with bottles of Cristal stacked floor to ceiling on each wall. 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. The dance floor, set at the lowest tier, is bordered by reflective etched-glass railing creating a brilliant focal point in the center of the room while custom crystal-beaded chandeliers hanging throughout the main room reflect an intense kaleidoscope of colors. Attention to detail abounds where combinations of rich textures and carefully thought-out elements 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 the ceiling creates an ultra-sensory experience. 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 a special menu from Circo as well as 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.
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. 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.
Soothing hues of beige and espresso are accented with vivid color from deep reds to vibrant ambers, while indulgent in-suite amenities range from iHome clock radios and DVD players to fax machines and flat-screen, high-definition televisions. Pairing modern conveniences with the warmth of home, Bellagio’s stunning suite redesign exemplifies the beauty, elegance and luxury for which the resort is known.

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 re-opened in December 2008 following a seven-month enhancement project overseen by original course architect Tom Fazio. The course’s tees and greens were rebuilt and reseeded, the irrigation system was upgraded and a new world-class short-game area was created, intended to reflect the diverse and intriguing shot values evident throughout the course.

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

- Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Salon Bellagio Offers Special Packages

SALON BELLAGIO OFFERS SPECIAL MOTHER/DAUGHTER,
GIRLFRIEND & COUPLE’S PACKAGES

Opulent Creams, Masques and Toners Create a Truly Lavish Experience for Hands and Feet

LAS VEGAS – Go far beyond a simple manicure and pedicure at Salon Bellagio. Three distinct packages – Mother & Daughter, Girlfriends’ Polynesian and Couple’s Pampering – offer an ideal way for guests to experience world-class pampering and luxury within their own private suite. Each indulgent service uses rich creams and lotions to exfoliate, tone and moisturize, leaving hands and feet soft and silky to the touch.

These decadent packages are priced at $350 and are two hours in duration. A gourmet four-course lunch from Jean Philippe Pâtisserie is included in the Girlfriends’ Polynesian treatment and can be added to the other packages for an additional fee.


MOTHER & DAUGHTER PACKAGE
Share tea and scones while enjoying a sumptuous milk-bath manicure and pedicure in Salon Bellagio’s private suite.

This premier anti-aging hand and foot treatment begins with a hydrating soak infused with rosemary plant extracts and oils to moisturize and tone. Next, an herbal grapeseed scrub exfoliates and smoothes the skin before a gentle sesame almond oil massage restores moisture and lost nutrients. Not only will guests walk away feeling pampered and relaxed, they also will remember this private, rejuvenating time together.


GIRLFRIENDS’ POLYNESIAN PACKAGE
Take a sensory journey to the islands with your best gal pal. Reserve Salon Bellagio’s private suite and experience this lavish manicure and pedicure based on an ancient Polynesian bathing ritual for arms, hands and feet, complete with floating tropical flowers.

The treatment includes a special gourmet meal by Jean Philippe Pâtisserie. The Light Spa Affair includes one selection from each of the following courses:

Appetizer – Poached Santa Barbara Prawns, Meyer Lemon Jam, Mango-Cilantro Salsa Fresco

Entrée – Grilled Free Range Chicken, Marinated Asparagus, Mimosa Salad, Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette

Cheese – St. Maure Goat's Milk Cheese, Quince Paste, Caramelized Pecans, Sun-Dried Cherries

Dessert – Choice of Napoleon, Sugar-Free Napoleon or Strawberry Tart


COUPLE’S PAMPERING PACKAGE
Bring your special someone to enjoy Salon Bellagio’s Bliss Manicure and Pedicure in a private, candlelit room, complete with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.


This romantic treatment includes an herbal-infused massage for the legs, feet and hands, creating a moment of shared bliss not soon forgotten.

Salon Bellagio is open daily to the public from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information or to experience the ultimate indulgence, call Salon Bellagio’s VIP line at (702) 693-8009 or visit the resort’s website at www.bellagio.com.

# # #

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

- Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Presents "Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends"

New Exhibition in Partnership with Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Debuts January 23, 2009

LAS VEGAS – Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) is pleased to announce the debut of “Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends” January 23, 2009. Organized in partnership with the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD), the exhibition will feature important paintings and sculpture by major contemporary artists with a focus on the 1960s and ’70s.

This exhibition will mark a transition by BGFA to showcase the next generation of artists beyond the late 19th and early 20th century masterworks found in previous displays. As the gallery moves forward with future programming, it is extraordinary partnerships such as the one forged with MCASD which will provide BGFA with the opportunity to exhibit important works of art throughout history.

“Working with MCASD and having the opportunity to present such incredible works of art, has been a phenomenal experience for BGFA,” said MGM MIRAGE Curatorial Advisor Michele C. Quinn. “We are excited about this chance to bridge the gallery’s past exhibitions with future ones while still being true to the core of BGFA’s mission of showing only the best.”

“Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends” will include many of the major works in MCASD’s collection, primarily large-scale paintings along with sculpture and works on paper. The iconic artists to be featured were the leaders of their generation – Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Frank Stella, Ellsworth Kelly, Sol LeWitt and Ed Ruscha, among others. Their innovative use of material and imagery was at the forefront of Pop Art and Minimalism worldwide.

Masterworks on display will include Frank Stella’s “Sabra III” (1967), strikingly decorative, monumental canvas sections derived from the lines of a mechanical protractor curve; Roy Lichtenstein’s “Mirror” (1971), a deadpan depiction of a mirror’s surface that preposterously reflects its own schematized representation; and Sol LeWitt’s “Floor Piece #4” (1976), one in a series of compositions based on the cube, his fundamental modular unit. Classic examples of Abstract Expressionism by Hans Hofmann and Clyfford Still, precursors to the ’60’s movements, also will be on view.

Dr. Hugh M. Davies, The David C. Copley Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, said, “MCASD is extremely pleased to have this opportunity to showcase the depth and quality of its collection to new audiences through this partnership with Bellagio.”

“Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol & Friends” will be on view January 23, 2009 through Sept. 8, 2009. 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 7 p.m. Last admissions are sold 30 minutes prior to closing.

Admittance is $15 for general admission, $12 for Nevada residents and seniors 65 and older, $10 for students, teachers and military with valid ID. 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. 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.

About Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
Located at the heart of the elegant Bellagio resort, Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is Las Vegas’ premier exhibition space – where great art goes on vacation. Since opening in 1998, the gallery has presented exhibitions of artworks and objects drawn from internationally acclaimed museums and private collections including “American Modernism,” “The Impressionist Landscape: from Corot to Van Gogh,” “Fabergé: Treasures from the Kremlin” and “Picasso Ceramics.”

About Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
The collection of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) includes more than 4,000 works created after 1950 representing all media and genres: painting, sculpture, works on paper, photography, video, film and installation. MCASD is known for collecting works by promising emerging artists and under-recognized mid-career artists, as well as by major figures in contemporary art. Among the greatest strengths of the MCASD collection are Minimalism and Pop Art of the 1960s and ’70s, conceptual art from the 1960s to the present, installation art, Latin American art, and art from California and the San Diego/Tijuana region.

# # #

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

- Tuesday, January 06, 2009

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Announces Enhanced Membership Program

New Benefits and Exclusive Opportunities Await Art Patrons inside
Las Vegas’ Premier Exhibition Space

LAS VEGAS – Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) debuted a new membership program for art patrons May 15, 2008. The enhanced program underscores MGM MIRAGE’s ongoing commitment to making BGFA a cultural destination for tourists as well as residents of Las Vegas.

Conceived by MGM MIRAGE Curatorial Advisor Michele C. Quinn and BGFA Director Tarissa Tiberti, the multi-tiered program caters to everyone – from singles and couples to families and seniors – and offers such benefits as members-only exhibition previews, discounted admission for guests of members and priority seating at lectures.

“Our new membership program proves just how committed Bellagio is to providing gallery visitors with the same level of experience they would receive if they were to take in an exhibition at MoMA in New York or MOCA in L.A.,” said BGFA Director Tarissa Tiberti. “The various levels of membership are tailor-made to suit our visitors’ unique needs.”

Valid for one year from the date of purchase, an Individual membership, priced at $50, offers unlimited access to BGFA and includes the following amenities:
• Discounted admission ($12) for one guest per visit
• Privileged, no-line entry
• Invitations to members-only exhibition previews
• Priority seating at lectures
• 10 percent member reward on guided tours
• 10 percent member reward on selected items at The Gallery Store

Dual memberships, priced at $75, feature unlimited access to BGFA for two and includes all of the benefits of an Individual membership. The Family level, priced at $100, include all of the benefits of an Individual membership as well as the following amenities:
• Unlimited access for two adults and two children ages 18 and younger
• Invitations to family-friendly events

Student, Teacher and Senior memberships, priced at $35, offer the same benefits of an Individual membership. Students and teachers must be enrolled in or employed by a high school, college, university or art school. Senior memberships are available to patrons ages 65 and older.

Modern Council, a fine art affinity program for budding collectors, offers members exciting opportunities to participate in and support modern art programs at BGFA as well as within the arts community-at-large. Special monthly events range from exclusive parties and field trips to artist meet-and-greets and private tours.

Michele C. Quinn said, “Modern Council gives young collectors a unique perspective on the various cultural aspects Las Vegas has to offer including tours of never-before-seen, multi-million dollar private and corporate art collections, artist lectures and studio tours. It also gives members the chance to learn about collecting art from savvy insiders.”

Modern Council is priced at $250 for Individual and $400 for Dual memberships, and includes the following amenities:
• Family level benefits
• Invitations for two to monthly BGFA Modern Council events
• 10 percent member reward on selected items at The Gallery Store

Individual, Dual, Family, Student, Teacher, Senior and Modern Council Memberships can be purchased at BGFA Box Office. Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call (702) 693-7871 or visit www.bellagio.com.

###

About Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
Located in the heart of AAA Five Diamond Bellagio, BGFA 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 Monet: Masterworks from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and Andy Warhol: The Celebrity Portraits.

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

- Monday, January 26, 2009

SKYLOFTS, First-Time Winner, and Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand Shine Brightly with 2009 Mobil Five-Star Honors

MGM MIRAGE Resorts, Restaurants and Spa Once Again Earn Mobil Four-Stars


LAS VEGAS – A trusted travel resource, Mobil Travel Guide today announced its highest accolade, Mobil Five-Stars, to first-time recipient SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand and three-time winner Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand.

With only 44 Mobil Five-Star hotel winners for 2009, this rating distinguishes SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand as one of the top hotels in the United States and Canada. According to Mobil, a “Five-Star hotel provides consistently superlative service in an exceptionally distinctive luxury environment. Attention to detail is evident throughout the hotel…”

Unveiled as a rare and private sanctuary of sleek, elegant two-story accommodations high above the Las Vegas Strip, the sophisticated SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand offers discerning visitors the quintessential Loft environment harmonizing design, technology, décor, vistas and unparalleled service. SKYLOFTS is outdone only by the extraordinary level of personalized service provided by the SKYLOFTS’ staff, including Spa, Dream, and the industry’s first Music Butlers.

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. Joël Robuchon is one of only 20 Mobil Five-Star restaurant winners in 2009.

“I am very proud of this accomplishment for SKYLOFTS and Joël Robuchon,” Gamal Aziz, president and COO of MGM Grand, said. “Both were created to be among the finest offerings available, not just in Las Vegas but in the world. We will continue to focus on delivering an exceptional experience and the highest caliber of service every day.”

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 the 2009 Four-Star Award winners. 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 The Signature at MGM Grand for lodgings and the following MGM MIRAGE restaurants – Aureole and miX at Mandalay Bay, and Picasso and MICHAEL MINA at Bellagio.

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

- Tuesday, November 18, 2008

World Poker Tour® Returns to Bellagio for Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


WORLD POKER TOUR® RETURNS TO BELLAGIO FOR
DOYLE BRUNSON FIVE DIAMOND WORLD POKER CLASSIC


Three-Week Event Begins Friday, Nov. 28 at noon

LAS VEGAS – The World Poker Tour® (WPT) returns to Bellagio for the Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic Friday, Nov. 28 – Friday, Dec. 19. The three-week event, created by Bellagio to pay tribute to Doyle “Texas Dolly” Brunson, consists of 10 no limit hold ‘em tournaments, seven super satellites and a Senior’s No Limit contest.

The entry fees for all tournaments range from $1,500-$5,000 and the WPT main event, to be held Saturday, Dec. 13 – Friday, Dec. 19, requires an entry fee of $15,000. The 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.

The ClubWPT event, which premiered during the Festa al Lago VI tournament in October, will be held Wednesday, Dec. 17 and is open to all professional and amateur poker players. The entry fee is $500 and for more information fans can visit www.worldpokertour.com.

Professional poker player and first-time World Poker Tour (WPT) winner Eugene Katchalov claimed the first place prize at the 2007 Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic last December. The 26-year-old Katchalov, of Brooklyn, NY, took home $2,482,605 for his victory. The 2007 tournament attracted a Bellagio tournament-record 664 players for a total prize pool of more than $9.6 million.

“Doyle always has been a strong supporter and friend of Bellagio,” said Doug Dalton, director of poker operations for Bellagio. “We cherish our partnership not only with him but all of the players. We expect another strong turnout for December’s event and look forward to Eugene’s (Katchalov) attempt to defend his title.”

Brunson, who remains one of the most esteemed names in poker with five decades of experience at the table, captured the first of his 10 World Champion bracelets in 1976 and his first WPT win at the Season III Legends of Poker tournament. The Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic main event’s final table will be broadcast on Fox Sports Net (FSN) as part of the WPT Season VII television lineup, scheduled to begin airing during the FSN Sunday night sports block in 2009. For more information, visit www.worldpokertour.com.

WPT Enterprises, Inc. (Nasdaq: WPTE) is one of the most recognized names in internationally televised gaming and entertainment with brand presence in land-based tournaments, television, online and mobile. WPTE has led innovation in the sport of poker since 2003 when it ignited the global poker boom with the creation of the World Poker Tour® (WPT) television show. Based on a series of high stakes poker tournaments, WPT now is broadcast globally and will premiere its all-new seventh season on Fox Sports Net’s national sports network in the United States in 2009.

WPTE also offers a unique online subscription and sweepstakes-based poker club, ClubWPT.com, which operates in 38 states across the U.S. Additionally, WPTE owns and operates WPT China, a multi-media company based in Beijing specializing in television production, online and mobile games supporting the WPT China National Traktor Poker Tour™. WPTE has a 10-year exclusive partnership with the China Leisure Sports Administrative Center to market and build the sport of poker in China. WPTE also participates in strategic brand license, partnership and sponsorship opportunities. For more information visit www.worldpokertour.com. WPTE is a majority owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: LACO).

# # #

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

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

- Thursday, October 30, 2008

European Professional Captures Festa Al Lago VI World Poker Tour® Title at Bellagio

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EUROPEAN PROFESSIONAL CAPTURES FESTA AL LAGO VI WORLD POKER TOUR®TITLE AT BELLAGIO

London Resident Earns More Than $1 Million for Tournament Win

LAS VEGAS – Festa al Lago VI, Bellagio’s month-long poker tournament, ended late Sunday night when Frenchman Bertrand “Elky” Grospellier defeated former World Poker Tour® (WPT) champion Nam Le to win his first WPT title. Grospellier earned the $1,411,015 first place prize as well as a seat in the April 2009 WPT World Championship at Bellagio.

The annual event featured 17 no limit hold ‘em tournaments held in the Bellagio poker room and the Fontana Lounge. The entry fees ranged from $500-$5,000 with the WPT main event requiring an entry fee of $15,000. A Bellagio gold bracelet was awarded to the winners of all 17 events.

“It feels great to win a WPT event at Bellagio,” said Grospellier, who was raised in Paris, France and now lives in London. “I felt confident throughout the tournament but once I took over the chip lead (a couple of days ago) I knew I needed to adapt to each hand and play smarter.

“I was making the right moves and once I opened a large lead, the other players were never really able to fight back. I definitely will return to Bellagio in December to play the Five Diamond event.” Grospellier defeated 367 other competitors on his way to earning the second largest payday in his young career. Earlier this year he won a European Poker Tour title for more than $2 million.

Le, who was able to fight off defeat numerous times throughout the final table action, earned $943,215 for second place. California residents Oddie Dardon and Nenad Medic finished third and fourth and took home $506,245 and $373,010, respectively. Adam Levy, hailing from Orlando, Fla., cashed $266,445 for fifth while William Mietz of Littleton, Colo., won $186,510 for his sixth place finish.

“We were extremely pleased with the number of participants in this year’s Festa al Lago,” said Doug Dalton, director of poker operations at Bellagio. “The month-long tournament was an incredible success and with the tremendous support from our executives and all of the poker players, we anticipate an even larger turnout for our Five Diamond World Poker Classic in December.”

The Festa al Lago VI main event’s final table will be broadcast on Fox Sports Net (FSN) as part of the WPT Season VII television lineup, scheduled to begin airing during the FSN Sunday night sports block later this year. For more information, visit www.worldpokertour.com.


(more)



Festa al Lago VI at Bellagio…2

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 has been licensed for broadcast globally. WPT Season VI airs Monday nights at 9 p.m. EST/PST on GSN in the United States, and WPT Season VII will air on FSN later this year.

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 is currently 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).

# # #

Contacts: Scott Ghertner, (702) 650-7565
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
Lyndsay LaGree, (323) 330-9876
WPT Public Relations

Las Vegas - Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Bellagio, Picasso and Le Cirque Recieve 2009 AAA Five Diamond Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2008

BELLAGIO, PICASSO AND LE CIRQUE RECEIVE
2009 AAA FIVE DIAMOND AWARD

Bellagio Continues to Shine as Only Hotel in Country
Featuring Two Five Diamond Restaurants

LAS VEGAS – For the eighth consecutive year, Bellagio received AAA’s prestigious Five Diamond Award as did Julian Serrano’s renowned restaurant, Picasso. Additionally, Le Cirque received the distinction for the sixth consecutive year, making Bellagio once again the only hotel in the United States to be home to two AAA Five Diamond restaurants.

“The AAA Five Diamond award acknowledges our commitment to excellence,” said Randy Morton, president and COO of Bellagio. “AAA is a trusted source of quality, and I couldn’t be more proud of this important recognition for Bellagio.”

Picasso and Le Cirque are among only five restaurants in Las Vegas to earn this coveted award. “Many of the world’s finest restaurants are located in Las Vegas,” Morton said. “Having two of the very best among such an elite group is an incredible honor.”

Julian Serrano, executive chef at Picasso, said, “Our exemplary team deserves all of the accolades. Receiving this prestigious award for eight consecutive years reaffirms to them we are successful in creating an exceptional dining experience.”

The regions of France and Spain where Picasso spent much of his life inspire Chef Serrano’s exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. Picasso masterpieces, as well as a collection of his charming ceramic pieces, further delight the senses of diners enjoying the Picasso experience.

Created by Sirio Maccioni, known as the world’s most charismatic restaurateur, Le Cirque invites guests to indulge and relish world-class wines, haute cuisine and luxurious service in an intimate setting. Le Cirque’s opulent dining room is complemented by a breathtaking panoramic view of Bellagio’s lake.

Mario Maccioni said, “As a AAA Five Diamond Award winner, we are honored once again to be among the top level of one of the most important organizations in our industry.”

AAA evaluates and rates more than 58,000 restaurants and lodgings each year throughout all 50 states, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, providing the broadest coverage of any U.S. rating system, both geographically and by number of properties rated. Of those, only 103 resorts and 59 restaurants, or 0.28 percent, earned the highly coveted AAA Five Diamond rating for 2009.

Michael Geeser, AAA Nevada spokesman, said, “For eight years, Bellagio has maintained the highest level of hospitality in the most luxurious surroundings. The property is really what the Five Diamond rating is all about. Once again, Bellagio is home to two Five Diamond restaurants, setting itself apart from the highest end properties in the world.”

To be considered for AAA rating and approval, restaurants and lodgings undergo a thorough evaluation by AAA/CAA’s 65 full-time tourism editors. Five Diamond establishments go through a much more extensive review. The entire experience, from arrival through departure, is taken into account. AAA experts judge lodgings on the exterior of the facility, public areas, guest rooms, amenities and bathrooms. Restaurants are evaluated on criteria including food, service, décor and ambiance.

# # #

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

Las Vegas - Tuesday, October 21, 2008

MGM MIRAGE Restaurants Awarded 2009 Michelin Stars

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA CONTACT:

Andrea Brown

MGM MIRAGE Public Relations

(702) 650-7534



MGM MIRAGE RESTAURANTS AWARDED 2009 MICHELIN STARS HIGHLIGHTED BY THREE-STAR HONORS
FOR JOËL ROBUCHON AT MGM GRAND


Joël Robuchon Only Las Vegas Restaurant to

Once Again Earn Michelin’s Highest Honor



LAS VEGAS – Michelin Guide’s Las Vegas edition is a European nod to Las Vegas’ evolution into one of the world’s top dining destinations. Seven of the seventeen restaurants honored with at least one Michelin star are within MGM MIRAGE properties. Receiving top honors is the Michelin three-star restaurant, Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand, the only Las Vegas recipient of this well-respected distinction.

Earning an impressive two stars is Chef Julian Serrano’s Picasso at Bellagio. Two stars is defined by Michelin as “excellent cooking, worth a detour” and is bestowed upon restaurants exhibiting “skillfully and carefully crafted dishes of outstanding quality.” Chef Serrano’s signature creations, including Lamb with truffle crust and Medallions of Fallow Deer, are outstanding dishes that have contributed to this latest accolade.

Rounding out the honors and capturing one star are five impressive restaurants – L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand, Le Cirque at Bellagio, MICHAEL MINA Bellagio, Aureole at Mandalay Bay and miX atop THEhotel at Mandalay Bay.

“We are so proud to have been recognized by Michelin for having many of the world's top chefs and restaurants within our resorts,” said Jim Murren, president and COO of MGM MIRAGE. “The Las Vegas Michelin Guide accolades have been made possible by the enormous creativity of our culinary talent."


Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand was the “Chef of the Century’s” first fine dining restaurant in the United States and represents “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey” according to Michelin’s three-star criteria. A three-star Michelin restaurant also is defined by the following. “One always eats extremely well here, often superbly. Distinctive dishes are precisely executed, using superlative ingredients.”

Chef Robuchon said, “I couldn’t be more proud of this restaurant and these talented chefs. I am honored to receive this award for a second consecutive year and to have the only three-star restaurant in Las Vegas.”

The restaurant joins the ranks of only 69 other restaurants worldwide, including Jean-George and Le Bernardin in New York, to hold Michelin’s highest star rating.

Gamal Aziz, president and COO of MGM Grand, said, “Chef Joël Robuchon is one of those rare individuals with such drive, passion and pursuit of perfection, he was destined to achieve accolades such as the Michelin three stars. MGM Grand’s culinary scene has been raised to new heights with the addition of Joël Robuchon.”

Chef Robuchon has a longstanding relationship with the Michelin Guide. He was the youngest chef of record to receive three stars for his restaurant Jamin in Paris in 1984 and is currently the most starred chef in the world.

Robuchon and his team, including Executive Chef Claude Le Tohic, Pastry Chef Kamel Guechida and General Manager Loic Launay, have crafted an experience that has drawn raves from diners and media alike. This esteemed honor joins numerous other awards including Esquire’s Best New Restaurant 2006, Bon Appetit Chef of the Year in 2006 for Robuchon and Pastry Chef of the Year for Guechida in 2007, Condé Nast Traveler “Hot Tables of 2006,” as well as a James Beard Foundation nomination for Best New Restaurant in 2006.

Las Vegas - Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge 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



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge Now is Open
at Bellagio Resort & Casino
The Light Group Brings Modern and High-End
Japanese Cuisine to Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – The Light Group, Las Vegas’ premier hospitality and lifestyle development organization, raises its culinary portfolio once again with the addition of Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge. Opened July 18 at Bellagio Resort & Casino, just steps away from The Light Group’s Caramel Bar & Lounge, FIX Restaurant & Bar and sophisticated nightclub The Bank, Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge 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 Japanese Restaurant & Lounge's stunning and sleek ambiance sets the stage for award-winning chef Akira Back’s menu of authentic, traditional and modern Japanese cuisine. Seasonal fish and ingredients flown in daily from the finest markets and purveyors around the world are 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 Japanese Restaurant & Lounge is Las Vegas’ go-to Japanese dining hot spot.

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


(more)
Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge at Bellagio/…2

The design of Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge's menu encourages 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 include Toro Sashimi with caviar and microgreens; Yellowtail Serrano, 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 created 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. A selection of imported (Japanese) and domestic (Washugyu) Kobe Beef is available on Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge's menu grilled with balsamic teriyaki glaze.

Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge offers a hand-selected extensive sake collection, encompassing several different types from the classic to the avant-garde representing many prefectures from across Japan. Large format bottles of sake and souchu are also displayed at the 18-seat bar. A selection of wine, beer and signature cocktails, including the exotic Dragon’s Fire, “Moon Rabbit” sake, lemon, habanero and pomegranate or the light and refreshing Shiso Sunset, Grey Goose Ohranj, blood orange puree, yuzu and shiso leaf will complement the menu.

Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge offers a 180-seat dining room, 30-seat intimate lounge, and 30-seat private dining room. Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge is open 7 days a week; 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 or call 702-730-3900.


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, Diablo’s Cantina and BRAND Steakhouse 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. For additional information, please visit www.lightgroup.com.

# # #

- Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Chocolate Fountain at Jean-Philippe Patisserie

OFFICIAL WORLD RECORD SET BY
JEAN PHILIPPE PÂTISSERIE’S CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN AT BELLAGIO

LAS VEGAS – Displaying a spectacular series of melted chocolate cascades, Jean Philippe Pâtisserie’s glass-enclosed, floor-to-ceiling chocolate fountain at Bellagio is officially the largest chocolate fountain in the world as certified by Guinness World Records™. The first-of-its-kind, freestanding attraction was a realized dream for award-winning Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Philippe Maury.

Designed by Maury along with Norwood and Antonia Oliver of Norwood 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. The fountain’s official record-breaking height is 26 feet, 3 and 3/16 inches; the masterpiece circulates nearly two tons of melted dark, milk and white chocolate at a rate of 120 quarts per minute.

“I am very proud of being recognized by Guinness World Records™ for having achieved this goal,” said Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Philippe Maury. “I’ve been creating sculptures out of chocolate for years, but exploring the properties of melted chocolate has been fascinating. 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 compelling: 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.

Three rivers of dark, milk and white chocolates twist and swirl from vessel to vessel, flood across then spill down to the next carefully positioned receptacle. 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 is a protective, multi-faceted cloak of 300-pound glass panels that rise in a funnel shape as the fountain expands toward the ceiling.

Designer Norwood Oliver said, “We’ve made glass a central design component of both the fountain and the Pâtisserie. 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 – melt 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 hot oil flows 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.

Randy Morton, president of Bellagio, said, “The scope of this team’s vision and their expertise are nothing short of genius. Jean Philippe Pâtisserie has become a sightseeing destination 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 - 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.

# # #

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.

# # #


*High-resolution images available upon request.

- 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 - Friday, February 01, 2008

The Jewel Box of Pâtisseries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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.

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.

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!”

# # #

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

Las Vegas - Friday, February 01, 2008

SENSI ~ DINING DRAMA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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 Ana Marie Mormondo, vice president of Food and Beverage 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.

# # #

Media Contact:
Andrea Brown
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7534

- 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.

(more)



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.


###

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.

# # #

- Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Bellagio Creates Terrazza Di Sogno, The Terrace of Dreams

Media Contact: Sandy Zanella
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7530



BELLAGIO CREATES TERRAZZA DI SOGNO,
THE “TERRACE OF DREAMS”
Las Vegas’ Most Romantic Wedding Location Incorporates Bellagio Fountains


LAS VEGAS – Every bride envisions that special day when she marries the man of her dreams. She dreams of her dress, the ideal day and the perfect location where she’ll say, “I do.” Now imagine a terrace offering stunning views of a Tuscan landscape and a Mediterranean-blue lake in which fountains perform a magnificent aquatic ballet choreographed to music and lights. Imagine the dramatic moment when these fountains soar to the sky at the moment of the long-awaited first kiss.
Imagine no more because Bellagio has created Terrazza di Sogno (Terrace of Dreams) where dreams can come true. Couples can celebrate their nuptials on this magnificent terrace and experience their special moment in one of the world’s most romantic locations.
The creation of this dream-like setting allows this AAA Five Diamond resort to continue delivering on the promise of being the most romantic resort in the world. An Italian balcony with toasted marble flooring and walls tinted a warm golden patina blends the beauty of the landscape with the azure blue of the waters below. And if this is not enough, consider the backdrop of the beautiful Fountains of Bellagio performing to a romantic song of the couple’s choice during their first kiss.

“When considering the ideal outdoor wedding event, we wanted to offer the elegance and romance that our wedding chapels currently provide but incorporate a spectacular view of Bellagio’s breathtaking fountains,” said Aida Bouaoun, Bellagio’s wedding chapel manager. “The Terrace of Dreams surpassed our expectations and is an extraordinary place where couples can create special memories.”
This one-of-a-kind experience can be reserved by selecting any of Bellagio’s Wedding Chapel Packages ranging in price from $1,800 to $15,000 and upgrading to this incredible venue for an additional $1,800.
The terrace can accommodate a total of 34 guests, has wheelchair access and is available daily for day and evening ceremonies. Special lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system are included to enhance the overall experience. An option to hire live musicians is available for an added fee. The Chapel serves as back up space for the wedding ceremony in the event that inclement weather occurs.
For more information visit the resort’s Web site, www.bellagio.com, or call the Bellagio Wedding Chapels toll free at (888) 464-4436 or locally at (702) 693-7700.

# # #

- Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Spa Bellagio Debuts Exclusive Tropical Enzyme Escape

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

SPA BELLAGIO DEBUTS EXCLUSIVE TROPICAL ENZYME ESCAPE
Pevonia creates sumptuous Mango, Pineapple and Papaya
Face and Body Treatment only available at Spa Bellagio


LAS VEGAS – Whether you need to recover from a long flight or a long night, visitors to Las Vegas can give their skin a sumptuous, silky soaking with Spa Bellagio’s exclusive Tropical Enzyme Escape. The 80-minute face and body treatment marks the first time the founder of Pevonia Botanical Skincare, Sylvie Hennesy, created a treatment exclusively for a spa.

More than simply another “food-as-spa-therapy,” this sophisticated, results-oriented treatment took two years to formulate using ingredients such as fruit enzymes, Vitamin E and pure marine collagen. Milder than a peel, this all-over treatment uses the power of fruit enzymes to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, making it easier for the spa products to penetrate the newly smooth surface.

The experience begins with a body exfoliation using a Rice Powder Body Polish enhanced with essential oils of aloe and lemon. With pores cleansed and opened, an application of mango balm, which contains shea and mango butter, enzymes, Vitamin E and extracts of pineapple and mango is used. The guest then is wrapped in a foil-like sheet of mylar, building warmth to further enhance the absorption of the rich balm. The aesthetician then begins a complete facial, including cleansing, steaming, extractions and a face and neck massage. A layer of 100 percent pure marine, freeze-dried collagen is applied and covered with a unique veil lift-off sheet containing botanics, which helps the skin retain moisture. This important step hydrates, lifts and plumps the skin as well as smoothes fine lines and wrinkles. The facial ends with an application of eye and lip cream.

During this time, the mango body balm has had time to give the spa guest an all-over moisturization. Because the rich products are hydro soluble, guests can rinse off any excess cream afterwards and still feel soft and smooth. A complimentary sample of this unique creation is provided so guests can enjoy it for some time to come.


“Clients are raving about the Tropical Enzyme Escape, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite because it’s the epitome of moisturizing treatments that leaves the skin moisturized for days and offers a sumptuous aroma,” said Spa Bellagio lead aesthetician, Julia Shintaku. “And to have Sylvie Hennesy personally come to Spa Bellagio and instruct our staff on the treatment’s application and its benefits was a real privilege for all of us.”

Shintaku refers to Hennesy as one of the leading professionals of the skincare industry because she developed her vision into one of the top spa product companies in the world. Pevonia is known for incorporating pure botanical materials into technologically advanced skincare formulas that now are used in thousands of spas around the world.

Shintaku, a 15-year veteran of the skincare industry, has developed many of the skincare treatments at the 55,000-square-foot Zen-inspired spa. She has studied in Saint Malo, France with Phytoceane and Fleurs lines; taken Laser and IPL classes and obtained her Medical Aesthetician Certification in 2004. She feels the Tropical Enzyme Escape reflects her spa philosophy of listening carefully to her staff and clients on what they want in a memorable spa experience.

The 80-minute Tropical Enzyme Escape is $350 or guests can opt for either the 50-minute Tropical Enzyme Facial for $185 or the 50-minute Tropical Enzyme Body Treatment for $165.

Spa Bellagio is open only to Bellagio guests Friday through Sunday, but now is available Monday through Thursday for non-hotel guests. For more information or to experience the ultimate indulgence of Spa Bellagio, call (702) 693-7472 or visit www.bellagio.com.


# # #

Las Vegas - Monday, October 22, 2007

“O”: The Timeless Aquatic Production

“O”: THE TIMELESS AQUATIC PRODUCTION
BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ONLY AT BELLAGIO


Welcome to a place where all the world is water and the stage is all the world.
Franco Dragone, Writer and Director


Cirque du Soleil weaves an aquatic tapestry of artistry, surrealism and theatrical romance in the breathtaking production, “O.”

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.

“O,” phonetically speaking, is the French word for water (spelled “eau”). The international cast of world-class acrobats, synchronized swimmers, divers and characters perform in, on, and above a 1.5 million-gallon pool. Reflective of a 14th century European opera house, the “O” theatre seats 1,800 guests and was custom-designed to meet the unique demands of the show.

The recipient of many prestigious awards and honors including a THEA award in the live show category in 1999, honorary Entertainment Design Award in 1998 and the “best production show” for eight consecutive years 1999-2006 by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, "O" still shines as an elegant and stunning creation and is recognized as such by the industry, the press and the public.



Since its opening in October 1998, over 7 million spectators have embarked on the dream-like voyage that is “O.” More than 4000 performances later, this lavish production is still as enthralling as ever thanks to the passion of the 85 performers and 150 stage technicians that make “O” come to life.

Cirque du Soleil is world-renowned for its distinct brand of theatrical entertainment. Since its founding in 1984, Cirque du Soleil has thrilled over 60 million spectators in more than 130 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 latest creation celebrating The Beatles™, LOVE™, at The Mirage. For more information, visit the Cirque du Soleil website at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

“O” CREATORS

Guide…………………………….….……....Guy Laliberté
Writer and Director…………….………….Franco Dragone
Director of Creation………….…….….....Gilles Ste-Croix
Set Designer…………………………….….Michel Crête
Costume Designer……...…………...…….Dominique Lemieux
Composer…………………………….….....Benoit Jutras
Choreographer…………………………....Debra Brown
Lighting Designer…………….…………....Luc Lafortune
Sound Designer…………………………....Jonathan Deans
Sound Designer…………………………....François Bergeron

Additional Creative Contributors

Synchronized Swimming Designer..……Sylvie Fréchette
Aerial Acrobatics Designer………….......André Simard
Rigging Designer………………………….Jacque Paquin
Make-up Designer…………..…………….Nathalie Gagné

SHOW SCHEDULE:
• “O” performs Wednesday through Sunday at 7:30 pm and 10:30 pm.
• There are no performances on Mondays or Tuesdays.
TO RESERVE TICKETS:
• Call 888-488-7111 or 702-796-9999.
• Go to www.cirquedusoleil.com or www.bellagio.com.
• Visit the “O” ticket office at Bellagio or any of the MGM MIRAGE box offices.

TICKET PRICES:
• $93.50, $99, $125, $150 (plus tax).
Tickets are available 120 days in advance of the performance date.
GROUPS:
For group reservations of 15 or more, contact lasvegas.sales@cirquedusoleil.com.



Media Contact:
Ann Paladie, Publicist
Cirque du Soleil
Las Vegas, Nevada
Phone: 702-693-7767
Email: ann.paladie@cirquedusoleil.com

Las Vegas - Monday, October 22, 2007

The Luxury Retailers at Bellagio

When Oscar Wilde said, “I have the simplest of tastes, I like only the best,” he could have been referring to the shopping at Bellagio. Via Bellagio provides discriminating guests the most exquisite fashion and jewelry collections from world-renowned designers including full collections from Giorgio Armani, Prada, Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Hermès, Fred Leighton,
Yves Saint Laurent, Gucci and Dior.

An Old World porte cochere leads the way to an elegant shopping promenade with an unrivaled collection of fine fashion boutiques whose sophisticated, gracious style reflects the overall ambiance of Bellagio.

Via Bellagio

Chanel
Designed by Christian Galliou, architect designer of Chanel boutiques in Europe and the United States, the Las Vegas boutique offers exquisite apparel and fine jewelry.

The Fashion Boutique offers the complete range of Chanel products, the Chanel Ready-to-Wear Collection designed by Karl Lagerfeld, handbags, accessories, shoes and Chanel Beaute and Fragrances.

The Chanel Fine Jewelry Boutique, the ninth Chanel Boutique in the country, houses the complete Collection of more than 400 uniquely exquisite designs of fine jewelry based on Mademoiselle Chanel’s own rich artistic heritage and passion for jewels.

Giorgio Armani
Visitors to the Giorgio Armani boutique at Bellagio have an opportunity to take advantage of the many special services Giorgio Armani provides. Personal shopping appointments, professional wardrobe consultations in the privacy of a hotel room, expert alterations and a multilingual staff are a few of the amenities available. Designed by
Michael Chow in collaboration with Giorgio Armani, the boutique carries the Giorgio Armani Borgonuovo collections for men and women that include exquisitely tailored clothing, dresses, sportswear, evening wear, cosmetics and accessories.

Other lines within the boutique include Giorgio Armani Neve (skiwear), Giorgio Armani Golf and Giorgio Armani Sposa.

The space is designed to enhance the Giorgio Armani collection with natural light and an expansive layout that opens up views from one area into another – each step revealing a new visual experience.

Prada
Prada’s luxury store offers guests ready-to-wear accessories and footwear as well as the new line of Prada sport clothes.

The boutique embraces the signature design of Prada boutiques worldwide. Designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi, the glass-fitted doors with handmade brass handles adorn the front façade and stainless steel fixtures line the interior. Ceilings and walls whisper the distinctive Prada “verdolino” green, while warm fluorescent light emanates from recessed lighting fixtures.

Fendi
Fendi, featuring furs, handbags and accessories, adds another exciting dimension to
Via Bellagio’s upscale shopping experience. Celebrating its 80th anniversary, Fendi unveiled its Bellagio store in April 2005 with a stunning new design by architect Peter Marino. Inspired by Rome, the city of Fendi's inception, the design is a tribute to both tradition and modernity and highlights the sophistication and luxury of Fendi's products. The boutique offers Fendi's elegant ready-to-wear clothing and exquisite furs designed by Karl Lagerfeld, as well as shoes, sunglasses and a variety of handbags.

Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany & Co. in Bellagio reflects the famed New York jeweler’s commitment to American design. The interior features elements of Tiffany’s famed Fifth Avenue store with cherry wood fixtures, stainless steel and glass showcases and vitrines.

The full selection of Tiffany’s classic merchandise is offered, including fine and engagement jewelry, the exclusive jewelry designs of Elsa Peretti, Paloma Picasso and Jean Schlumberger, watches and clocks, china, crystal, sterling silver flatware, stationery and writing instruments, fragrances and personal accessories.
To better serve customers, Tiffany & Co. provides personal shopping, bridal and children’s registry, repair and engraving services, and for corporate clients, Corporate Sales Services.

Dior
Another exciting dimension to the Via Bellagio shopping experience is the Christian Dior boutique. The boutique offers the latest collections of women’s ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes and accessories designed by John Galliano and the collection of fine jewelry designed by Victoire de Castellane.
This boutique, designed by Dior’s in-house architectural team, was inspired by the modern and dynamic design philosophy of the house. As guests enter into the rotunda, a replica of the one at the Avenue Montaigne boutique in Paris, they experience the timeless elegance and innovation for which the house is known.

Fred Leighton
Among its rare collections of diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires, Fred Leighton has assembled and made available to the public the largest and most prestigious collection of estate and antique jewelry. The boutique in Bellagio features works from his rare collectible jewels including items from the Collection of the Duchess of Windsor, as well as works from the Art Deco period -- including the magnificent jewels of Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Mauboussin, Boucheron and Belperron.

Hermès
To describe Hermès at Bellagio, one needs only to look at the past to understand the present and the future. As the French say, “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose” – the more things change, the more they stay the same. For in spite of expansion around the world, the credo of founder Thierry Hermès is still present in every product: “Excellence of materials, unrivaled craftsmanship and design that is at once functional and beautiful. This is Hermès.”

Gucci
The shop features Gucci’s trademark handbags, luggage, small leather goods, shoes, ties and scarves, women’s and men’s clothing, watches, household items, jewelry, eyeglasses and perfumes. Conceived by Gucci’s creative director, Tom Ford, and interior architect, William Sofield, the store is a seamless architectural interpretation of Ford’s designs for clothing, accessories and homeware.

Yves Saint Laurent
Yves Saint Laurent showcases its sophisticated line of cosmetics, shoes, accessories and ready-to-wear fashions. Known worldwide for its clean lines and classic designs mixed perfectly with contemporary colors, each season’s collection encompasses the style of this stately designer and complements the Via Bellagio family.

Bottega Veneta
Since the 1960s, Bottega Veneta has been one of the world leaders in luxurious merchandise. Known for their premier Italian leather goods, Bottega Veneta in Via Bellagio offers men's and women's luxury lifestyle accessories such as handbags, wallets, sunglasses and shoes. The store also features Bottega Veneta’s Fine Jewelry Collection. A classic palette rather than trend-driven designs, Bottega Veneta defines sophistication and elegance.

Via Fiore

Chihuly Gallery
The first and only shop featuring the work of Seattle artist Dale Chihuly is located just off of
Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.

Media Contact: Sandy Zanella

MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7530

- Sunday, October 21, 2007

Tuscany Kitchen - Bellagio Demonstrates the Art of Cooking

Media Contact:
Sandy Zanella
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7530


BELLAGIO DEMONSTRATES THE ART OF COOKING

Tuscany Kitchen Offers Meeting Groups a Customized Experience


LAS VEGAS – Interested in learning culinary secrets from Bellagio’s award-winning restaurants and chefs? The AAA Five Diamond Bellagio’s Tuscany Kitchen, the first exhibition kitchen of its kind in Las Vegas, offers just that.
The Tuscany Kitchen experience draws upon an impressive list of culinary talent. Bellagio is home to two AAA Five Diamond restaurants, one James Beard award-winning restaurant, four James Beard award-winning chefs including Nevada’s first James Beard award recipient, Julian Serrano, and Jean-Philippe Maury, a Gold Medalist from the 2002 World Pastry Team Championship.
Designed with meeting and convention groups in mind, flexible packages have been created to offer attendees a customized experience. The 1,170-square-foot Tuscany Kitchen, outfitted with top-of-the-line Viking equipment, provides a variety of cooking demonstrations which are coupled with a reception, a formal dinner or a tasting of food, wine or spirits. The presentation options incorporate three menu types – seasonal, themed or specialty items. Learn how to trim a whole artichoke and present it three ways; learn more about Japanese, Italian or Chinese dishes; or learn certain specialties such as unique preparations of cheese or heirloom tomatoes. While demonstrations vary in length, most range from one to four hours and accommodate 12 to 60 guests.
Wine is an integral part of the Tuscany Kitchen experience. For wine enthusiasts, Bellagio Wine Director and Master Sommelier Rob Bigelow can design a variety of classes including WINE 102, food and wine pairings and how to order wine in restaurants. Bigelow also can tailor wine tastings to the group’s palates, their culinary demonstration or the dinner menu.

Groups are able to use the kitchen for team-building activities, spouse activities, unique cocktail receptions and more. Companies are able to incorporate their logo into the demonstration. Fun gift items such as aprons, boxed sets of chopsticks and mini-jars filled with various salts or spices can be added for keepsakes of the day’s event. This experience also can be professionally taped in-house on DVD to be given as a personalized gift to attendees.
The Tuscany Kitchen features the latest technology and is professionally equipped to produce live cooking shows. The video system, able to record on four video formats – Beta, DVD, VHS and DVCAM, is complete with three remote-controlled cameras routed through a professional engineering rack. The three cameras have been positioned to capture shots of the chef, food preparation and performance area. The built-in audio system includes wireless lapel microphones and audience response microphones. In the event a remote recording truck needs access to these audio lines, an isolated audio split to the broadcast panel is available. These audio/video computer-controlled recording systems allow video production without using an editing room for editing raw video footage.
Other features include a 60-inch plasma screen mounted above the cooking area for easy viewing, a grid for studio lighting equipment and additional seating with the adjacent 2,250-square-foot Donatello Room, which features a built-in screen and projector showcasing the chef’s live preparation in the Tuscany Kitchen.
The flexibility of the Tuscany Kitchen allows groups to create dynamic, interactive experiences. This exhibition kitchen dedicated to the culinary arts is just one of the innovative ways in which Bellagio continues to exceed guest expectations time and again.
For more information on the Tuscany Kitchen or to make reservations, please call April Black-Kreft in Bellagio Catering at (702) 693-8035 or via e-mail at apblack@bellagioresort.com

- Monday, October 15, 2007

Chairman and Presidental Suites Tower Above the Rest

Contact: Sandy Zanella
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations
(702) 650-7530


BELLAGIO’S CHAIRMAN AND PRESIDENTIAL SUITES
TOWER ABOVE THE REST

LAS VEGAS – For guests traveling on business or pleasure, Bellagio’s two luxurious 4,000-square-foot Chairman and Presidential Suites located atop the new Spa Tower offer privacy, 24-hour butler service, spectacular views of Las Vegas and more.
The addition of this 928-room, 33-story tower allowed Bellagio to create these contemporary two-bedroom suites, which enhance the resort’s room offerings and incorporate new design elements. Guests enter each suite by crossing a walkway that floats above a tranquil reflecting pool. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Las Vegas skyline and a soaring 14-foot ceiling offer a dramatic and inviting entry.
Each suite has been designed with its own solarium, fireplace, L-shaped bar with seating for six and an indoor garden with its own fountain – ideal spaces for reading or sipping a glass of wine. Those on business can conduct meetings in style in a separate boardroom with seating for 10. Two master bedrooms each with king beds, private bathrooms featuring whirlpool tubs with views of the city, and separate steam showers round out each suite’s living space.
Contemporary marble floors inlaid with Tiger’s Eye, sleek modern furnishings complemented by walls of onyx and upholstered silk create a residential and comfortable feel. The Chairman Suite, with studded parchment walls, is designed with a color palate of deep browns, oak and Devonshire Cream. The Presidential Suite is done in shades of chocolate, Macassar ebony and aquamarine accented by jewel-toned silk fabrics against a pale tan and gray background.

The art throughout consists of museum-quality contemporary pieces, including paintings, sculptures, drawings and photography, which add to the sophisticated surroundings. For dramatic touches, shimmering mother-of-pearl water walls, floating glass bar tops, dining rooms sheathed in sculpted bronze panels and paper-thin porcelain light fixtures handcrafted by jeweler Ted Muehling create interesting spaces in which to relax or conduct business.
No one need fight over which television program to watch in the suites. Each of the two master bedrooms has a 30-inch pop-up LCD television complete with a DVD/VHS player, a 50-inch plasma TV in the bedroom sitting area, a 20-inch LCD TV centrally positioned in the bathroom, plus a 50-inch plasma TV in the living room also with a DVD/VHS player. For added convenience, all of these televisions, as well as the drapes and lighting throughout the suites, are controlled by an AMX remote control system. In addition, the audio system offers DMX providing 100 channels of uninterrupted music ranging in format from smooth jazz to classic rock.
“The Chairman and Presidential Suites are extraordinary additions to Bellagio’s AAA Five Diamond accommodations,” said Randy Morton, president and COO of Bellagio. “The design, amenities, service and city views are unparalleled.”
Services include complimentary limousine transfers to and from the airport, VIP Check-In and access to the VIP Lounge. With 24-hour butler service, guests receive turndown service, VIP seating for Cirque du Soleil’s extraordinary “O,” reservations and premium seating for any of the MGM MIRAGE restaurants, shows and clubs, all at the touch of a button.
For guests traveling with personal staff, three separate 1,000-square-foot Entourage Suites are located on this floor.
In designing the suites, every detail was considered in order to create a comfortable, stylish stay for the discerning Bellagio guest. To make reservations for the $5,000-per-night Chairman and Presidential Suites, call (888) 987-6667. For more information on Bellagio, visit the website at www.bellagio.com.

# # #

- Monday, October 15, 2007

Bellagio's Expanded Poker Room Sets Industry Standard

BELLAGIO’S EXPANDED POKER ROOM
SETS NEW INDUSTRY STANDARD

LAS VEGAS – Poker Room. The very words may inspire an image dark, dreary and clouded by smoke. With the opening today of Bellagio’s expanded poker room, the resort has forever shattered that old-fashioned formula, creating a modern venue worthy of today's transformed sport.

Guests are greeted with elegance and style. 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. Celebrity painter Leroy Neiman has been commissioned to create a painting representing the current high stakes poker greats battling it out.

Within its 7,000 square feet, the room features 40 tables of non-stop action as well as ‘Bobby’s Room,’ the new two-table high-limit room named in honor of 1978 World Series of Poker Champion and MGM MIRAGE executive Bobby Baldwin.

The smoke-free poker room, located next to the Race & Sports Book, offers guests 24-hour tableside dining, complimentary beverage service, safe deposit boxes, a full-service cashier cage with five windows and an overhead state-of-the-art music system. There also are eight 32” television monitors and 11 42” plasma screens throughout the room for viewing sporting events or other programming. In addition to ‘Bobby’s Room,’ a five-table high-limit area sits in an elevated section of the poker room.

With the advent of the World Poker Tour televised events, poker has been transformed into a mainstream sports sensation, creating record-setting ratings and capturing millions of new fans for America’s favorite card game. Poker has assumed its place in the hearts and minds of people around the world and has become as important in the marketing of Las Vegas as the more mainstream blackjack and craps.

“Having listened to feedback from our players, we have added new amenities which provide guests the opportunity to experience all of the action in the most dynamic of poker settings,” said Randy Morton, president of Bellagio.


Professionals and amateurs alike have the opportunity to play the game in the comfort of Bellagio’s poker room with a variety of games including 7-card stud, Texas Hold ‘em, Omaha Hi-Lo Split and No-limit Texas Hold ‘em. Daily tournaments will be held and interested players can visit the poker room for more details. ‘Bobby’s Room’ will host a variety of the highest action games in the world and will require players to buy-in for a minimum of $20,000.


# # #

Contact: Scott Ghertner, 702-650-7508
MGM MIRAGE Public Relations