Absinthe

Show Review

An entertaining elixir

By Caroline Fontein

There's a large white tent located in front of Caesars Palace. From the outside it doesn't look like much, but don't be fooled. This humdrum structure is home to one of the wildest shows on the Las Vegas Strip. One step inside and you're transported to the Moulin Rouge. The walls are decorated with colorful stained-cut glass, mirrors and kitschy artifacts. In the center of the tent is a tiny stage with seating situated around it. It's the perfect setting for Absinthe, an adults-only, circus-style spectacular that combines old-world burlesque with specialty acts and outrageous comedy. You won't find much refinement here, but for guests who want a show that's daring, racy and over-the-top, you might just want to order a double when it comes to Absinthe.

"If you're offended by words like f*** or s*** you just might be at the wrong f***'in show," says Absinthe's host The Gazillionaire.

Sporting an ill-fitting white tuxedo, dark slicked-down hair, gold shoes and an exaggerated version of his manhood, The Gazillionaire looks just as absurd as his personality. He's crass, provocative and wildly entertaining. He acts as ringmaster for the show, but don't expect him to introduce any clowns who do balloon art or lead a line of elephants on parade. Instead, Absinthe has blond bombshell Angel Porrino from "Holly's World" who gets inside a balloon and a dynamic cast of performers who were likely plucked from places just as exotic as the African outback.

The Gazillionaire's loyal assistant, Penny, co-hosts. Her quirky comments add a comical element to the show. When given the chance to perform solo, Penny decides to tell a tale about her sock puppets. The story quickly goes from average to R-rated, and the crowd erupts in laughter.

The two hosts are joined by Absinthe's cast of eccentrics including: a buxom brunette branded "The Green Fairy" who sings and does a burlesque-style striptease; a team of tight-rope walkers do everything from sitting on a chair to using the Ab Roller while balancing above the crowd; a sexy man and woman aerialist team; a man and woman roller skating duo and various other artists who perform incredible feats of strength within mere feet of the crowd. Some of the acts are sensual while others amaze. Throughout the show The Gazillionaire and Penny joke around, creating non-stop comedy while the next act takes the stage.

Absinthe the show is a lot like Absinthe the drink. Sure you can decide to indulge in your favorite cocktail or beer. You already know you like it, and its ending result is predictable. But, if you try Absinthe, you're bound to get a few surprises and experience something wild, zany and absolutely fun.