Barry Manilow Makes a Grand Return to Westgate Las Vegas

Vegas 411 captures the iconic entertainer's welcome-back extravaganza.

Few entertainers capture the spirit of Las Vegas like Barry Manilow. Despite his age (a youthful 78), the singer/songwriter/musician/producer still puts on a spectacular full-scale production as he did in the '70s. Last night, hundreds of fans attended an outdoor gala to celebrate the relaunch of Manilow - The Hits Come Home at Westgate Las Vegas. Eager "Fanilows" started assembling well before 6 pm to get a glimpse of the star. The towering resort, which has been home to other legends like Elvis Presley and Barbra Streisand, spared no expense to fill the porte cochere with music, flowers, news crews, and a massive flash mob.

Copacabana Flash Mob Barry Manilow Westgate Las Vegas

https://vimeo.com/606943751

Inside the casino, members of the press and fellow entertainers attended a party at the resort's International Bar, receiving gift bags of Manilow CD's, his signature glow sticks, and other fun surprises. Onstage, R & B duo NPerson entertained the crowd with a live set. Husband-and-wife Sean and Brandon Godfrey are also part Soul of Motown, one of Westgate's many ongoing shows. Singers Vinny Adinolfi and son Vin A. were present for the festivities, taking a break from rehearsals for their upcoming The Bronx Wanders residency, which moves to Westgate beginning September 20th.

NPerson Westgate Las Vegas Proud Mary

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1Se49MqSQNIx2xdwEG

Finally, the sun went down and the party moved outside. Gordon Prouty, the hotel's VP of Public & Community Relations, introduced Cami Christensen, Westgate's President/General Manager. Ms. Christensen was thrilled to welcome the guest of honor, who arrived in a limo and took to the stage. After a few words to the adoring crowd, the headliner flipped the switch to a massive spotlight trained on Manilow's latest banner, which can be seen for miles.

Barry Manilow Returns to Westgate Las Vegas 9/15/21

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/k207RN8zKSsm3ZxdwQS

As Mr. Prouty told Vegas 411, the massive spotlight that Mr. Manilow powered up carries a very special meaning for the resort: "The big spotlight that was used to illuminate the newly unveiled image of Barry Manilow on the Westgate Las Vegas actually has a history on the property. It was one of six spotlights that were used to light up the property on the opening night of the International Theater back on July 2, 1969. It was reconditioned so that it could be used for last night s special event. It was great to have a nice piece of our past to honor our legendary history and celebrate the return of Barry Manilow."

Westgate GM Cami Christensen (left) welcomed Barry Manilow to the stage.

Mr. Manilow performed for many years when Westgate was known as the Las Vegas Hilton. He continues to feel a special bond with the resort and its team: "It's wonderful working here at the Westgate. I've worked every place...EVERY PLACE! And we're crazy about this place. We're crazy about the people who run it, we're crazy about the audiences that come to see us, and we love the showroom that we're in. I hope you all come to see our show and thank you all for coming to this event." Mr. Prouty couldn't agree more:"It was a momentous celebration and we are all so excited to have Barry back at his Las Vegas home."

Public Relations VP Gordon Prouty worked up the crowd.

Manilow - The Hits Come Home performs on select dates at 7 pm through December 4th. Tickets start at $54.95 (plus taxes/fees) and can be ordered here.