Donated by Howard Klein
I do not have any pictures of the King's Crown. If anyone has any pictures of this establishment that they would like to donate to this site, please e-mail me.
From the beginning, this property seemed to be doomed for failure. This property at times was called "The Vegas Jinx".
On New Year's Eve of 1964, New York toy maker and inventor of the game Yahtzee, Edwin Lowe, opened the $12 million, 450 room, English Tally Ho Motel. This resort was aimed to prove that a resort motel without a casino could be successful. Tudor style, it had leaded windows, gables, and half-timbering. It contained 32 villas, a par 54 nine-hole golf course which some regarded as the most challenging in the West, four swimming pools and six specialty restaurants: The Bon Bon Room, Embassy Room, Oak Room, Polo Lounge, Peacock Alley and Sommelier Room.
Don Kirk left the Flamingo to take over the entertainment duties of the Tally Ho.
"It was opening day golf tournament at the "Tally-Ho Hotel, Celebrity Golf Tournament" --- a nine hole miniature golf course, of course, innovating a no-gambling, Strip hotel, if you recall, ------ when I was at the DI Skyroom. Harry James and I were golf partners for years.On the ninth hole there was a twenty-foot diameter white ring painted around the hole on the green. A three-foot high magnum of champagne was the prize for the tournament contestant whose ball came closest to the hole. Harry took his shot and placed his ball about five feet from the hole. A roar and applause from the crowded spectators' bleachers erupted. No-one all day ever got inside the white circle. I was next...... and Lo & Behold...... I placed mine inside his about a foot from the hole out-doing Harry's shot...... the place went berzerk. Harry was all flustered and wanting that prize for his trophied hallway along with his and Betty's (Betty Grable's) gold records, memorabilia and such grabbed me and said, "You give me that magnum and I'll swap you a gold-plated putter that I have hanging on my wall"..... Deal done. I was now the owner of a gold-plated putter given to him by Betty as a gift." - Sam Melchionne, 2001
The resort closed in October of 1963.
In 1964, the motel became the King's Crown Tallyho Inn and failed after six months when it was denied a gaming license. In preparation of obtaining their gaming license, they had chips made, chips that would never see a gaming table. State Gaming Officials said there were 15 applicants for the license, but there were "hidden" people who would have to clear out or come in for licensing.
In 1966, Milton Prell, one of the original owners of the Sahara, purchased the King's Crown for $16 million. He began to spend another $3 million on renovations, including a new 500 seat "Bagdad Theater" showroom, along the highway in a flat-roofed structure. Prell swapped the English imagery for an Arabian Nights theme, but kept the original Tudor room wings. Prell brought along many members of his old teams from when he ran the Pioneer Club, The Lucky Strike Club, the Mint, and the Sahara: Al Garbian ran the bingo games at Club Bingo until the Sahara opened; Dick Kanellis was a reporter at the Las Vegas Sun before conducting publicity for the Sahara; Will Schwartz was one of the builders and owners of the Moulin Rouge, then as head of the Dunes card room before joining Prell; Sandy Gilbert worked slots at the Lucky Strike before moving to the Sahara; Jack Melvin handled publicity for the El Rancho Las Vegas, Lucky Strike, Mint and Sahara; and Joseph New ran the Los Angeles Ambassador Hotel, the Saxony in Miami Berach, and the park Plaza in Toronto.
A serrated canopy and a $750,000 15-story sign, an aladdin's lamp, designed by Ray Larsen, Jr., of Young Electric Sign Company were added.
Located at 3667 Las Vegas Blvd. South, the 335 room Aladdin opened on midnight, April 1, 1966, with a black tie affair. Flower petals poured from the ceiling and onto guests as they entered the hall. One guest was composer-pianist Warren Richards. The opening entertainment included comedian Jackie Mason, the "Jet Set Revue," a musical review that showcased "The Three Cheers" vocal group and the "Petite Rockette Dancers" in the Bagdad Theatre. On April 9, 1966, Dunes emblazoned their marquee with neons that blinked "Welcome, Neighbor . . . Milton Prell's Aladdin Hotel . . . Good Luck."
Prell introduced an innovative main-showroom policy by offering three completely different shows twice nightly, beginning at 8:00pm and ending at 6:00am, with no cover or minimum charges.
The Aladdin contained a golf course, 9 hole par 3.
In April of 1966, Diane Hart of Jet Set Revue was singing I Ain't Down Yet when she lost her footing but bounced right back up without losing a syllable. It was joked that she lived up to the song.
In 1966, Bagdad Theatre showcased Jackie Mason; The Sneakers w/Beverlee Brown; Topless Scandals of '67; Pussycats Galore Revue. Also showcased were Marti Barris; Ben Blue; Dick Contino w/Leigh Snowden; Tommy Deering & Dick Fox; Billy Eckstine; Redd Foxx; Joanie Gilmore Trio; Joe E. Lewis; The Pussy-Cat Revue w/Nicky Ray's Satellites & Ron Stanton Dancers; Buddy Rich and his new band; Hank Shank Orchestra; Rusty Warren; and Pearl Williams.
The audience got a thrill when in November, 1966, while Joe E. Lewis was performing his 2:30am show, Frank Sinatra came out from the audience and joined Lewis on stage for an ad lib show.
The Casino Bar showcased Jack Taylor Trio with Kay Houston, and The Starlights.
In December 1966, individuals listed included Milton Prell - President, Saul Messer - Vice President, Gil Gilbert - Vice President, Oscar Agron - Vice President & Casino Manager, Sam Landy - Administrative Assistant; Day Shift personnel included Pat Judd - Shift Manager, Red McCloud & Wally Taranto - Pit Bosses, Tom Tompkins, Gordon Chappell, Carmen Rizzo, Dave Willner, & Bill Zippman; Carl Hastie - Keno Manager, Hal McCormack, Tony Di Lopio - Swing Shift, Phil Corl - Graveyard Shift, & Don Stenson - Relief; Swing Shift included Jim Konys & Jim Rivera - Shift Managers, Chet Edwards, Ralph Delligatti & Eddie Hughes - Pit Bosses, Bill Barnett, Bill Brissenden, Dick Favero, Sam Tessler, Dave Towns, & Perry Whitt; Baccarat - Ronnie Steinman & Sam Scaglione; Credit - Mel Prell Manager; Slots - Al Garbian - Manager, Sandy Gilbert - Swing, Joe Bacarri, Earl Cherrington, Tom Moore & Lenny Sabol; Card Room - Harry Shaffer & George Slobin; Graveyard Shift - Ernie Sims - Shift Manager, Cavaricci & Mel Weasa - Pit Bosses, Johnny Vance, & Larry Creswell; and Sam Landy.
In 1967, Aladdin boasted Racehose Keno, Pan Baccarat, and the most liberal slots in Las Vegas. Her restaurants included the Sabre Room which was open from 6:00pm to midnight "with a cuisine par excellent in an atmosphere of quiet splendor," The Gold Room which offered dining around the clock, and the daily buffet. Jim Seagrave was the publicist for the resort.
On May 1, 1967, a little more than one year after its opening, the Aladdin became important to rock n' roll history when it was the host of the wedding of Elvis and Priscilla Presley, before 100 friends and an armada of writers and photographers.
"I got my initial scoop thanks to an anonymous tip, probably from an Aladdin employee. When UPI moved the story that Presley was getting married at the Aladdin, it went around the world. The tip arrived from an unnamed caller in the early morning hours. I explained we didn't pay much for tips but asked what the 'scoop' was about. "He said Elvis Presley was getting married at the Aladdin that day. I told him under those circumstances, maybe UPI could come up with some respectable money and asked for his name and address." The caller refused and abruptly hung up.
"At that point I jumped out of bed and drove to the Aladdin." The reporter snooped for telltale signs throughout the pre-dawn hours, until she saw Nevada Supreme Court Justice David Zenoff - who later that day would marry the famous couple - walk into the hotel. "I knew I was on the track of the real story. Unfortunately, I never knew the name of the guy who tipped me on the story and never was able to send him a check." - Myram Borders, Las Vegas News Bureau then was with UPI
On November 28, 1967, Aladdin hosted the Saints and Sinners meeting which held the election of officers and roasted Rusty Warren's secretary Bob Ennis.
During this year, Bagdad Theatre showcased Toni Arden & Dick Weston, Godfrey Cambridge, Professor Irwin Corey, Pat Collins, Tommy Deering & His Friends featuring Merlene Garner, Billy Eckstein, Redd Foxx, Jimmy Makulis, Carmen McRae, The Ladybirds, Pat Moreno's Artists & Models starring Tempest Storm, Nudes On Ice, The Odd Couple starring Phil Foster and Joe Flynn (of McHale's Navy fame), Richard Pryor, Hank Shank Orchestra, Roberta Sherwood, Herkie Styles, Topless Brazilia Jazz Revue, Jackie Vernon, Wanieta Vess Trio, Rusty Warren, Bobby Winters (who by this time had appeared on the Ed Sullivan show 19 times), This Was Burlesque starring Ann Corio, Mary Sawyer's The Frivolous Five, Ron Stanton's Pussycats Revue starring the Satellites, Ron Stanton's Aladdinudes a' Go Go with the Satellites.
It was a turnaway crowd that welcomed Ann Corio in This Was Burlesque. In the audience was Phyllis & Bobby Sherwood, former World Heavyweight Champ Joe Louis, and Tommy Leonetti who just finished his own show at the Trop. When asked how he got to the Aladdin so fast he responded "I sing fast."
The Casino Bar showcased Arnold Dee Trio, Lee Arellano Trio, Jimmy Brown Trio with Lisa Paul, Clarence Daniels Trio with Betty Heyward, Tommy Deering Trio featuring Merlene Garner, Joanie Gilmore & The Aladdin Aires, Joanie Gilmore & The Motives, Tommy Rundell & The Foursome, Tommy Russell Trio/Sheila Sparr, Sunny Spencer Trio, and Jim Ware & The Motives featuring Joanie Gilmore.
During one of Professor Irwin Corey's shows in 1967, he stated he had the answer to the Cuban problem. "We should take Florida and move it up to the Mississippi River, where it will be 500 miles farther away."
Aladdin advertised the Sabre Room with dining from 6:00pm til midnight, Gold Room with dining around the clock, and the daily buffet served from 6:00pm to 11:00pm. The resort also advertised its golf course and country club. The casino offered racehorse keno, Pan, Baccarat, and the most liberal slots in Las Vegas.
In 1968, Prell was checked into the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital for an unknown illness.
In September of 1968, patrons were given a thrill when Prell and his wife Debbie roamed through the casino after dinner, greeting people and having casual conversations with passersby.
In October of 1968, Aladdin advertised suites and apartment villas overlooking the green fairways and blue lagoons of the Aladdin golf course. Air-conditioned walkways connect all rooms and suites to the lobby.
The Chef during this time was Bill Jaeger who was the former Executive Chef at the Mint Hotel downtown. Jaeger was born in Cologne, Germany. He was affiliated with the Tropicana Hotel, in the Gourmet Room Restaurant, and was named Executive Chef of McCarran Field food functions prior to heading the Mint staff. His favorite recipe was Beef Ragout which served 6. Ingredients: 6 oz onions, 2 oz lard, 1/2 tsp. marjoram, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1/2 cup tomato puree, 2 lbs beef, cubed, 1 qt. soup stock, 1-1/2 lbs cabbage, shredded, 1 oz. flour, caraway seeds, 1/2 clove garlic, chopped. Saute onions in lard, golden brown. Add salt, pepper, marjoram and tomato puree. Add cubed beef and soup stock. Cook for approximately 3/4 hour. Add cabbage and cook until tender. Blend flour into gravy. Add caraway seeds and garlic and cook for another 15 minutes. (1968 Aladdin picture, as well as Jaeger's picture, bio, and recipe donated by Dan Kubota).
Also in 1968, Bagdad Theatre showcased Johnnie Bachemin, Godfrey Cambridge, Pat Collins, Curtiss & Tracy, Arnold Dee Trio, Tommy Deering Trio, Dick & Jeanne, Redd Foxx, Funky Soul, Jackie Gayle, Frank Griffin, Maryvonne Huet, Damita Jo, Paul Judge & The Jury, Les Big Ben, Lewis & Christy, Little Richard/Duncan Sisters, Minsky's Burlesque '69, Nudes On Ice starring Joe E. Ross with Diane Wisdom, Hank Shank Orchestra, Jackie Vernon, and Rusty Warren. Cambridge had to take a temporary hiatus due to a bout of pneumonia.
It was noted that when Little Richard appeared at the Aladdin he had sold 32 million records, in spite of the eight years he took studying to be a minister.
The Casino Bar showcased Denny Clark III, Arnold Dee Trio, Tommy Deering Trio, Johnny Desmond, Dick & Jeanne, Inner Circle, Bill Kane Quartet, Lou Lalli Trio, Dick River Trio, and Sunny Spencer Trio.
Research showed that in 1969, wealthy Detroit widow Mae George purchased 24% of the resort. George was questioned by the Nevada Gaming Control Board because her business adviser was her late husband's foster brother, James Tamer, the Aladdin's entertainment director who later was placed in Nevada's Black Book. Four mobsters who had bilked the hotel of $250,000 received prison terms. Later it came to light that Detroit bail bondsman Charles Goldfarb and James Tamer were running the resort on behalf of Detroit and St. Louis mob interests. A grand jury was convened and a two-year investigation began.
In August of 1969, it was reported that Aladdin just completed a $750,000 face life including renovations to the Sinbad Lounge which became enclosed and leveled above the casino floor with Arabic motif.
In 1969, Bagdad Theatre showcased Johnnie Bachemin, Little Richard, Joni Carson, Lili St. Cyr, Jackie Gayle, Lewis & Christy, Buddy Michael's Fringe Benefits, Minsky's Burlesque '69 featuring Tempest Storm/Suzette Summers, Little Richard, Looney Lewis, and former world light-heavyweight boxing champion Joey Maxim, Hank Shank Orchestra, comedian Sloopy assisted by the Red Barons, Tempest Storm, Jackie Vernon, and Rusty Warren. The Maitre d' was Gordon Shields. The Publicist for Stardust, Fremont and Aladdin during this time was Joe Glaston.
The Sinbad Lounge showcased Jack Bedient & The Chessmen, JoAnn Bon & The Coquettes, The Curtain Calls, Golden Gate Doorknob, Buddy Michael's Fringe Benefits, The Partners, Del Reyes, Sloopy & The Red Barons, and Wild Honey. The Casino Bar showcased Fran Griffin, Paul Judge & The Jury, and Bobby Sherwood & Phyllis Dorn.
On December 19, 1969, Bagdad Theatre opened Minsky's Burlsque '70 starring Tempest Storm.
Also in 1969, Parvin Dohrmann Corp. of Los Angeles took over the Aladdin and in 1972, using the name Recrion Corporation, sold it to veteran casino executive Sam Diamond, St. Louis politician Peter Webbe, Sorkis Webbe, and Richard Daly for the price of just $5 million. Under the Webbes, a $60 million facelift was conducted including the addition of a 19-story tower designed by Lee Linton and the new 7,500 seat Performing Arts Center replacing the golf course, which was $4 million over budget. The Center had rounded bays on each end and crowned with superbly over scaled Moorish arches, the Aladdin tower broke the pattern of corporate stodginess.
The Aladdin stated that the new tower with a 29th floor. It was actually a 19-story structure, but the owners, fond of the idea of 29 stories, started numbering the floors at 11. Notable celebrities at the opening of the tower included Tina Louis and Regis Philbin.
A $250,000 porte cochere, its ornament fabricated by Young Electric Sign Company, continued the tower's arabesques. The Aladdin also added a new $300,000 140-foot blockbuster sign also built by Young Electric Sign Company with little neon, huge attraction panels and none of the arabesque of the Aladdin's original sign.
12th Floor Pool
During this year the Sabre Room offered a menu from stuffed Colorado trout to New York Steak served on a plank. Prices started at $4.50.
Mark Swain was born on the Uintah Ute Indian Reservation where his family engaged in ranching and operating Indian Trading Posts. He was education at Brigham Young University in Utah, and spent most of his adult life in Vegas when he was discharged from the Navy in 1945. In 1949 he joined the staff of Desert Inn. He spent several years in publicity, promotion and advertising before entering into Public relations and sales. He was appointed Director Sales for the Stardust and then became Vice President in charge of Sales and Public Relations for all three properties of Parvin-Dorhmann - Stardust, Aladdin, and Fremont Hotels. He was also part owner of the J-F Ranch at Motoqua, Utah, which consisted of 100,000 acres, where he rose quarter horses for racing, cattle and Irish Wolfe Hounds. In 1963 he was elected President of the National Licensed Beverage Association, a 50,000 man organization. Swain also appeared in a number of movies and TV programs. One such Telecast Swain was shown roping and capturing a huge live mountain lion which he later flew to Washington D.C. at the time of president Kennedy's inauguration, and donated the lion to the National Zoological Gardens. He belonged to the Vegas, Los Angeles and San Francisco C of C organizations, Clark County Sheriff's Posse, Elks, Variety Club, Kentucky Peace Officers Association, the Air Force Association, the Nevada Chapter of and Kentucky Colonels. His hobbies were flying, boating, training of quarter horses, and Appaloosa horses, and big game hunting.
In May of 1970, it was reported that Jimmy Dean would be handling the entertainment for both the Aladdin and Fremont Hotels, and Bob Plummer would be the new General Manager.
In 1970, the Bagdad Theatre showcased Minsky's All New Burlesque '70 starring Carye St. Clair/Joni Carson/Irv Benson & Jack Mann/Hank Shank Orchestra/Lili St. Cyr/Looney Lewis/Jack Mann/Satan's Angel/Tempest Storm; the show Our Thing starring The Dimwits/Tommy & Jonny/Diane Day/Loadstone. Also showcased was Tura Santana. The Mini Bottl' Bar showcased Jo Ann Bon & The Coquettes, and Ron Rose & Friend.
The Sinbad Lounge showcased The Bachelors, Jack Bedient & The Chessmen, Jo Ann Bon & The Coquette's, Frankie Brent Show, The Cousins, The Cover Girls, The Dynatones, Golden Gate Doorknob, Paul Littlechief, The Looking Glass, The Para-Fun-Nalia, Ron Rose & Friend, Upstarts, and Wild Honey. During this year, Aladdin was offering a show policy of $2.25 per person with all you can drink.
During this year breakfast was served 12:00am to 6:00am for $.69, the luncheon buffet was $1.69, and the dinner buffet was $1.99. A complete prime rib dinner was $4.95, and happy hour cocktails were $.59.
From 1968-1971, Joe Glaston was serving as promo/entertainment/publicity head for both the Aladdin and Stardust. Few knew that Glaston was the only public relations man for Abbott & Costello during 17 years of performing.
During this year it was rumored that Walter Gardner and a group of investors had agreed to buy the resort for $12,000,000. So far I cannot find any comfirmation of this purchase.
In 1971, Aladdin showcased The Funny Farm starring Billy Barty/Ken Cornell/Gordon Cornish/James Cotten/Rip Taylor/Fay DeWitt/Jacqueline Fontaine/Larry Masse/Don Melvoin/New Vaudeville Band/Ultra Three. The Maitre d' was Gordon Shields. The Sinbad Lounge showcased Ron Rose & Friend, Patti York, and Lenny Martin Trio. The Mini Bottl' showcased Dixiejuana Jazz Band, Lenny Martin Trio, Ron Rose, Ron Rose & Friend, and Patti York/Lenny Martin Trio.
Aladdin, Stardust and The Fremont took out ads in 1969, 1970, and 1971 to wish their patrons happy holidays.
In 1972, Aladdin showcased Minsky's Burlesque '72 starring Tommy Moe Raft/"Curley" Joe DeRita & Frank Scannell/Ricki Dunn/Carme/Diane Lewis/Berri Lee/Paul Gilbert/Suzette Summers/a cast of 35/Rudi Eagan Orchestra; Nymphs Of The Nile starring Frankie Ford/Eddie Nigro/Joe Cappo/Lita Paximos/Marya Linero/Martin Gaven/Beverly Whiting/Mary Lou La Penta/Ed Whiting/Kari Noven/Jannie Wells/Nick Navarro Deancers/John Sterling Orchestra.
The Sinbad Lounge showcased Freddie Bell Show; Guy Chookoorian's Turkish Harem Revue; The Detroit Sound; Frank Moore/Bill Kane; The Summer Winds; Jerry Sun Show; and Turkish Harem Belly Dance Revue.
In March of 1973, Aladdin President and General Manager, Sam Diamond had a soil test taken for construction of a high-rise. The Aladdin was waiting for a loan to be approved to begin construction. Diamond planned a $25 million, 24 story highrise within a year. He also planned condominium highrises and a shopping complex on Aladdin's 35 acres. Apparently, these plans did not go through.
During this time the lunch buffet was $1.75 for adults, $1 for children; and dinner and Sunday buffets were $2.45 adults, $1.45 for children.
In 1973, Bagdad Theatre showcased the musical Nymphs of the Nile starring Billy Daniels, featuring Frankie Ford & Eddie Nigro/Benny Payne/Joe Cappo & Lita Paxinos/Martin Gavin & Beverly Whiting/Mary Lou La Penta, Ed Whiting, Kari Noven/Jannie Wells/Nick Navarro Dancers/John Sterling Orchestra. Special guest star was Marya Linero. It was stated that after the show Daniels would mingle and greet fans in the Gold Room. Also showcased were Turkish Harem Belly Dancers Revue, Faces of Eve, Marshmello '73, The Vagabonds, D.D. Smith & Company, and Freddie Bell Show. Aladdin also opened Barry Ashton's This Is Burlesque starring Irv Benson/Daphne Davis/Miss Velvet/Herbie Barris/Charlie Vespia/Jim Hodge/Jack Mann/Lisa & Salerno/Ashton Girls/Tommy Hodges Orchestra. The Maitre d' was Joey Dee.
Jackie Smithwick modeled the feathered headdress that she wears in This is Burlesque.
The Sinbad Lounge showcased Freddie Bell Show, Irv Benson, Pepper Davis Show, The Detroit Sound, Happy Jesters, Harem Belly Dancers, Jades & J'Adorables, Billy Kay Show w/Pam Egbert/Baby Rae, Arthur Lyman Show, Marshmello '73, Frank Moore & Bill Kane, Jackie Nigro, The Platters, Tony Rome, Toni Sandoval, D.D. Smith & Co, Lou Styles, Jerry Sun Show, Milt Trenier, Turkish Harem Belly Dancers, The Vagabonds, and The Vagabonds featuring Babe Pier.
In 1974, Bagdad Theatre showcased This is Burlesque, and Burlesque '74. The Sinbad Lounge showcased Gingerbread, Happy Jesters, Ron Shy & Don Hendricks, Don Cherry, Spinning Wheel, and Vagabonds.
The Aladdin had a grand re-opening in 1976 with singer Neil Diamond being paid $750,000 for two shows. On December 11, 1976, the Theatre showcased boxing with the Mike Quarry v. Mike Rossman and Earnie Shavers v. "Tiger" Roy Williams fights. All seats were $10. The Ice Capades appeared December 14-26, 1976, with tickets costing $7.50, $5.00 and $4.00.
In 1976, Bagdad Theatre showcased Blood, Sweat & Tears, and Mad Mountain Mime Troups. The Casino Lounge showcased Don Cherry, Frankie Carr and the Nov-Elites, and Imperials.
To ring in 1977, the Theatre showcased Gladys Knight & The Pips. Tickets were $15, and $12.50. During this year the Bagdad Theatre showcased Cheech & Chong.
In 1978, the hotel was the site of the world's first slot machine with a jackpot of $1 million.
From 1978 to 1981, Aladdin had a role in various episodes of the TV show Vegas starring Robert Urich.
In August, 1979, general manager James Abraham, bail bondsman Charles Goldfarb, Tamer, and casino boss Edward Monazym were convicted by a Detroit Federal Jury of conspiring to allow hidden owners to exert control over the resort. The Nevada Gaming Commission then closed the hotel but U.S. District Judge Harry Claiborne opened it three hours later warning he had "special powers" as a federal judge. Aladdin attorney/owner Sorkis Webbe was indicted in connection with a $1 million kickback scheme during an expansion project at the hotel. The closing of the resort would impact 800 casino employees and 1,200 other employees at the hotel.
"It was eerie to be present, even as a reporter, when the tables were closed and the slots were taped. The state adopted new laws to avoid closures by placing troubled casinos under state-appointed management. It helped the state deal with violations while avoiding the adverse impact a closure has on employees and tourism." - Myram Borders
Bagdad Showroom showcased Lola Falana/Hudson Brothers; Lola Falana/Paul Williams; Aretha Franklin; Bobby Gentry/Jim Stafford; Gabriel Kaplan; Gladys Knight & the Pips; Loretta Lynn/Larry Gatlin; and Connie Stevens/David Steinberg. The Maitre d' was Joey Dee. Cocktails and show were $12.50. Casino Lounge showcased Denise Clemente/Henry Shed Band; and Irish Showband.
The Theatre for the Performing Arts showcased Styx ($8 & $9); and Gino Vannelli ($8 & $9).
By 1980, there was a price war as to who would own the Aladdin. Singer Wayne Newton along with partner Ed Torres, former Riviera president, had bought the property for $85 million, over Johnny Carson's bids. News reports at the time said Newton and Torres had personality and ego conflicts from the beginning. The resort's entertainment policy shifted from "big-name stars" to stage shows. Newton said he wasn't in favor of the change and that time would tell if he was right. Torres bought out Newton in 1982, but found himself fighting off banks and unions as creditors. He had failed to make mortgage payments, a theme that would be recurrent throughout the 1980s. A year after the breakup, Torres was trying to negotiate with Newton, this time to sell the resort back to his former partner. In February 1984, the Aladdin went into Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, $3.5 million in debt after a Teamsters Pension Fund forced the foreclosure. Newton had failed to show he had the finances to buy the property and the deal was dead.
In 1980, Bagdad Showroom showcased Lola Falana/Roger & Roger, Gladys Knight & The Pips, and Aaron & Freddie. The Maitre d' was Joey Dee.
In 1981, Bagdad Showroom showcased Gladys Knight & The Pips, and Aaron & Freddie. The Maitre d' was Joey Dee.
In 1982, Aladdin showcased C'est Magnifique. The buffet dinner show was $17.95, and the midnight cocktail show was $12.95 including two drinks
In 1983, one of the celebrities showcased was Paul Anka.
In an interview with Las Vegas Style magazine, Aladdin Casino Manager Vic Vickrey provided a story. Click Here to read it.
Charges of mob infiltration and skimming closed the Aladdin from January 1986 to April 1, 1987.
Ginji Yasuda, a Japanese businessman who was known as a high roller in Las Vegas, was willing to buy Aladdin. Described as a "mystery to everyone," Yasuda bought the property in early 1987 for $54 million. Yasuda brought in Bunker who was working at the Dunes to serve as chief operating officer. He brought in casino genius Dennis Gomes from Hilton Nevada Corporation to oversee gaming operations. The casino was closed again while Yasuda applied for his gaming license and a massive year-long refurbishing began.
Yasuda was born in Korea as Sam K. Park. He was at one time a race driver but changed his name when he moved to Tokyo. He inherited a $120 million Tokyo apartment complex. He was a rich playboy who once lost $2 million at Caesars Palace.
State gamers granted Yasuda a two-year conditional license. He was the first foreign resident to obtain such a license and quickly became a hero to some individuals. It is reported that Yasuda spent $20 million in remodeling the resort.
During the casino's closure, which lasted more than a year, he kept 80 employees on the payroll and lost as much as $850,000 a month. Not having any experience in casinos Yasuda stated operating a casino was like "learning to swim. So I keep losing? I do it that way." Within months of opening, it became evident that Yasuda and his management team would not work out. In a massive shake-up, Gomes and several others were fired. Yasuda had brought good people into his company, Ginji Corp., but then refused to trust their experience and judgment. Yasuda was living beyond the Aladdin's income. He kept one of five elevator shafts roped off for himself while guests were waiting long periods of time for elevators. He would stay up late at night in the penthouse watching hotel monitors, placing slot machines in neat, orderly lines with no carousels. The Aladdin has no excitement and no reason for people to stay and play.
Rumors were that Yasuda used the corporation's $25 million jet to fly his wife to New York on afternoon shopping excursions. Vendors began wanting their payment in cash. Hospitals refused to be providers for the Aladdin employees.
It was reported that Yasuda borrowed $6 million from Japanese organized crime interests to keep the Aladdin afloat against the Internal Revenue Service who wanted to seize the hotel.
In 1985, the Aladdin contained three illuminated tennis courts which were opened from 9:00am to 5:00pm, and was opened to guests and the general public. It also contained a pro shop. The Tennis pro was Chip Gutzwa.
The resort contained the Genie Buffet. Saturday and Sunday brunch was $3.95, lunch was $2.95, and dinner was $3.50.
During this time Aladdin had Bingo with $1,000 guaranteed at 9:00pm.
Aladdin advertised the Middle East Room which offered Middle Eastern cuisine. The Sabre Room contained elegant intimate decor, with shades of the Arabian nights. The menu ranged from stuffed Colorado trout to Chateaubriand, Bouquetiere. Prices started at $4.75. The restaurant contained a cocktail bar lounge. The Maitre d' was Barney Halliard.
In 1987 Aladdin showcased the Brazilian-themed Oba Oba show.
In 1988, Aladdin was cast a role in the movie Midnight Run.
Showcased in 1988, were Highway to Stardom Tour starring Southern Pacific, S.K.B. Shenandoah & Ballie & The Boys, Billy Ocean, Rod Stewart, & Fielding West, and Abracadabra.
In June of 1988, World Wrestling Federation champion Ravishing Rick Rude visited camedian-magician Fielding West after an "Abracadabra" show. His version of a friendly embrace was a neck hold.
In August 1989, Yasuda refused to reveal the source of his loans to the Nevada Gaming Commission which cost him his license. Four days later the Aladdin was again filing for bankruptcy. Yasuda died of cancer in December, 1989.
In the 1980s, Aladdin starred as the Silver Horse Casino in an episode of the TV show A-Team.
Sometime in 1990, Frank Sinatra was interested in buying the Aladdin and renaming it "Sinatra's" but nothing came out of it. Rumors also circulated that Donald Trump was interested in the Aladdin but it was instead put into the hands of a series of careful managers approved by the bankruptcy courts. An appellate court overturned a judgment that Wayne Newton won against NBC, which some say implied his purchase of the Aladdin in 1980 was financed by organized crime.
General manager Tim Dougall stated occupancy rate of the Aladdin was 94 percent to 97 percent, but he stated that "Lately it seems people have been using us as a bedroom and spending their days elsewhere."
In 1990, Aladdin showcased Abracadabra.
In 1991, United States Bankruptcy Judge Linda Riegle granted Bell Atlantic Tricon the deed, saving the closure of the resort and 1,300 jobs. Valley Bank was calling in a $2 million loan.
In 1991, Aladdin showcased Abracadabra which involved magic, comedy and dancing.
In 1992, possession of the Aladdin was turned over to casino executive Joe Burt on a 12-year lease, ending three years of bankruptcy court control. Although Burt orchestrated a $15 million renovation, people were still using the Aladdin for a bed and not much more. What was once one of the largest casinos in the state was a tired old relic next to the shine and glitz of the new resorts such as The Mirage and Excalibur. Even the Performing Arts center was outdated.
The Aladdin gained the interest of the public by having big name entertainment such as Bon Jovi, Jefferson Starship, Heart, Stone Temple Pilots, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers play there, as well as good musicals such as Country Tonite. Burt was credited as a strong operator who had turned the Aladdin into what looked like it was going to be a financial success.
Also in 1992, the showroom showcased Country Tonite. The Comedy Club showcased Comedy Underground.
On New Year's Eve of 1992, Roseanne Arnold signed to perform.
In a bizarre twist of fate, just when Burt was beginning to see his dream of the rebirth of the Aladdin making a strong come-back, he was killed in a motorcycle accident in July of 1993, in Arizona. He was 44 years old.
In 1993, the Showroom showcased Country Tonite. The Theatre of the Performing Arts showcased Vince Gill, Patty Loveless, Tears for Fears, and Dream Girls.
During the 1990s, Aladdin showcased Alanis Morissette, Pearl Jam and Phish to Las Vegas as well as touring productions and international events like the Miss Universe Pageant.
In 1994, New York real estate developer Jack Sommer and his Sigman Sommer Family Trust, through their company, Aladdin Gaming LLC, took over the resort for $80 million. A spokesman was quoted as stating that the resort will not be demolished.
In 1994, Aladdin showcased Country Tonite which won the American Eagle Award for the Best Live Country Show in the USA. The Theatre for the Performing Arts scheduled to have Barry Manilow bring in the new year. Also showcased at the Theatre during this year was Wizard of Oz, Jan & Dean/Surfaris/Shantays/Kingsmen, Brooks & Dunn, Supremes/Shirelles/Marvelettes/Dixie Cups, Steve Miller, and Spin Doctors/Gin Blossoms/Cracker.
In 1995, Aladdin showcased Country Tonite which won the American Eagle Award for the Best Live Country Show in the USA for the second year running. It was also advertised that the Aladdin held the Predator's Paradise which was a wildlife habitat. Theatre for the Performing Arts showcased Trisha Yearwood.
In 1996, Kenny Rogers proposed to Wanda Miller at the resort while he was performing on New Years Eve.
In 1996, Aladdin showcased Country Tonite. Theatre for the Performing Arts showcased Tori Amos, Rachelle Ferrell, Juan Gabriel, Grease, Patti LaBelle, Lake & Palmer, Chris Ledoux, Mariachi Festival, Mavericks/Junior Brown, Miss Universe Pageant, Alanis Morisette, Peter, Paul & Mary, Phish, Kenny Rogers, Jethro Tull, Tommy, Andrew Loyd Webber's Music of the Night, and West Side Story.
In 1997, the Aladdin announced that the present hotel will be demolished and a new $1.2 billion hotel and gaming complex will be built on its 35 acres of land, opening in the spring of 2000. Sommer said that the Middle Eastern theme would remain intact. The new Aladdin will include 2,600 rooms and a casino facing the Strip, 462,000 square foot upscale shopping mall, and will employ more than 7,000 people. The new Aladdin will be three times as large as its predecessor. A $250 million joint venture with Planet Hollywood, Inc. also is under way to create a neighborhood music-themed resort.
Before her closing, Aladdin showcased Country Tonite. Theatre of the Performing Arts showcased 42nd Street (4/1-6), The Band/Hot Tune/JGB (6/11), Frankie Beverly & Maze, Boston (8/10), Blackstreet/Mint Condition/Changing Faces (7/25), CA Surf Party featuring Jan & Dean/The Kingsmen/The Sufaris/The Chantays (8/2), Counting Crows/Wallflowers (9/18), Vicente Fernandez (9/12), Funny Girl w/Debbie Gibson (2/11-16), Juan Gabriel (8/30), Sammy Hagar (8/24), Isley Brothers (5/3), Live Lucious Jackson (9/17), Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (5/6-11), Mariachi Festival (9/13), Steve Miller/Eric Johnson (7/19), Queensryche (6/29), Summer Daze '97 Born to be Wild Tour (6/28), Village People/Vicki sue Robinson/The Trammps (7/26), and Clay Walker/Terri Clark/James Bonamy & Emilio (5/2).
The Sinbad Lounge showcased entertainment nightly.
The show 42nd Street first debuted in 1933. The depression was on and people wanted to have a reason to forget their cares and be happy. Ironically, on April 1, 997, the opening day of 42nd Street at the Aladdin, the stock market had just dropped over 300 points. It was reported that many people were singing the song "We're in the Money" as they tapped danced their way out of the Performing Arts Center and back to the casino.
On November 25, 1997, the Aladdin closed its doors forever. When the Aladdin closed it contained 1,100 deluxe rooms and suites including non-smoking rooms, in-room safes, three tennis courts, two swimming pools, a shopping arcade, a video arcade, beauty salon, four restaurants, 24 hour coffee shop, Marketplace buffet, Marketplace snack bar, 24 hour room service, three full service bars, and over 30,000 square feet of meeting and banquet facilities.
The Aladdin was imploded on 7:30pm, on April 27, 1998. An estimated crowd of 800 people paid $250 per seat to charity to watch the implosion from a tent at the southeast corner of the Aladdin site. Valet attendants parked cars for the arriving guests and festivities included an auction in which domestic and foreign trips were sold, the implosion raised as much as $100,000 for the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Southern Nevada.
Police estimated 20,000 people watched the implosion. As they waited for the implosion to begin, bags holding ponchos, goggles and face masks were passed out to protect the crowd from dust.
The start of the implosion was signaled by the "pop pop pop" sound of detonation cords, followed by the firing of charges. The Aladdin hesitated before falling to the ground. A thick brown cloud of dirt billowed skyward and passed west over the Strip, Mirage Resorts' Bellagio and Interstate 15. Las Vegas Boulevard was closed between Tropicana Avenue and Flamingo Road at 6:45pm. As the number of onlookers increased, Spring Mountain Road also was closed. The Strip reopened at 8:30 p.m with the only sight remaining of the resort being the Theatre of Performing Arts.
In February of 1999, Park Place Entertainment purchased approximately 30% of the senior discount notes of Aladdin Gaming Holdings, lLC in the open market. (Over the next 2 years Parking purchased an additional 3% of the senior notes for a total ownership of approximately 1/3 of the outstanding notes.)
The Aladdin was always a favorite of mine, being the hotel I stayed at during my first visit to Las Vegas. I liked the people, and the food at the buffet was just incredible. My room was huge and I always liked the atmosphere there. I had heard various rumors over the years that the Aladdin was built on an Indian burial ground and that's why it was jinxed. I have found no evidence of this though.
The Aladdin and Landmark were the casinos that gave me a glimpse of doing a history site a few years ago. Without the Aladdin and Landmark's inspiration, along with the circumstances surrounding them, I probably would've never created this site. I was sad to see the Aladdin go and I do miss it when I go to Vegas but if the new Aladdin can end the curse and be successful, it will be worth it. Please see my further views on this on my July 17, 2000 experiences located at My Miscellaneous Page - Deanna
The first scan is of the Aladdin's lamp rotting in the Boneyard. The second scan was taken on February 5, 2000, of the lamp shining brightly on Fremont Street in downtown Vegas. The plaque states that Richard Schuetz presented the renovated sign on July 8, 1997, to Mayor Jan Laverty Jones and her children.
Artists' rendition of the exterior
Artists' rendition of interior
In August of 2000, I wrote to the Aladdin and asked for their help bringing in the new Aladdin. I told the Aladdin personnel that I admired the architects and owners for building the daughter with a very strong resemblance to her mother. They responded as follows:
"Structural requirements dictated the implosion, but Aladdin executives made the bold choice to honor the casino's heritage. The two resort towers that extend from the building toward Las Vegas Boulevard are designed to resemble the original Aladdin tower. Employees of the original Aladdin were the first group invited to apply for jobs at the new resort. And photographs, posters, brochures and news clippings grace the back-of-house hallways, reminding new employees of the Aladdin story - a tale woven into the fabric of Las Vegas history." - Aladdin
"In a city that tends to implode its history, the Aladdin is unique. Aladdin is the first resort to rebuild and retain its original name. That link to our city's rich past is hard to find in Las Vegas these days." Frank Wright, a curator at the Nevada State Museum and Historical Society.
Even though mother Aladdin had to be imploded because of structural problems, the 7,500 Theatre of the Performing Arts proved to be structurally sound ($25-million renovations to the Center will take away 500 seats). It will become part of the new Aladdin and a strong reminder that mother Aladdin still exists.
Rising construction costs put a strain on the Sommer Trust Fund. London Club Nevada, a subsidiary of a high-end London casino operation, now owns 40% of the resort. The Sommer Trust brought in London Clubs International in 1998. In exchange for its $50 million initial investment, LCI received a 25% equity ownership in the project. At the time, the partners anticipated any future costs would come from the partners in the same 75-25 ratio. As additional costs piled up over the next two years, LCI ended up paying most of the bill, as the Sommer Trust had difficulty liquidating assets to meet the Aladdin's capital calls. Of the $148.2 million in cost overruns so far, LCI has paid $143.9 million -- 97% of the total, pushing its total investment to just under $200 million
LCI is now entitled to a far larger portion of the profits, including the first $30 million in profits each year, the financing issue caused stormy relations between the partners. Even with heavy investments by LCI, just $375 million of the property's $1 billion investment came in the form of equity. The rest of the property's capital costs, more than $625 million, came in the form of debt, mostly junk bond debt and bearing an average interest rate of 11% per year. The ultimate price of all that debt will be about $85 million in the first year.
February 6, 2000
These pictures July 18, 2000
In taking pictures on my July, 2000 visit, I met two construction workers that were on the Aladdin's site working in 116 degree weather. God bless them for working in that heat and helping to create the newest kid on the block.
Michele
Valdez & Juan Nevarez, Sr.
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