In 1996, Circus Circus announced that the Four Seasons Regents Hotels and Resorts will be adding a 400 room hotel which is to become part of the sprawling development on this property. The details of this project that could cost in excess of $700 million would be announced later on.
In 1997, Project Paradise was well on her way. It was stated during this year that the budget could top $800 million excluding land costs, it will be the most expensive Circus hotel and casino ever.
In 1998, the reports on this resort stated that Circus Circus was referring to this construction as Project Paradise. In April of 1998, Project Paradise was named:
"In a world of entertainment, it's the realm of make-believe or imagination that always moves us the most. At Mandalay Bay, we have taken imaginative liberty with the map. We know that islands have long held a special lure for the traveler, promising escape, protection, lush atmosphere and the yearned-for return to paradise. The fabled isle, in a word, that lied beyond the world of work and worry.Our version of that isle at Mandalay Bay is likewise mythic. The name Mandalay itself, in literal form, comes from the colonial capital in old Burma, standing at the far edge of the Empire in the 1800s, where the East met the West. Today we've taken that distant outpost, placed it on the island and borrowed from the design vocabulary of the 'East meets up with the West.' There's an architectural mix in the interiors and facades of Mandalay Bay that's not specific to any time or culture, but hints nonetheless at a lost empire in all its grandeur and exotic trappings.
To get to our Mandalay Bay, you have to run away from home. You make your getaway to uncharted waters. This voyage has its romantic tradition, of course, in the history of travel. Herman Melville, America's bard of the South Seas, advised the Spirit of Flight as the antidote to the Madness of Ordinary Routine.
Mandalay Bay is the perfect place found on no map. You find it only when you're there. And what's found there is a total entertainment resort - the object of the modern getaway for the world's travelers. By day, the beach - complete with surf and sharks. Ten tropical acres that stand as the largest external environment on the Las Vegas Strip.
By night, you can find a blockbuster act in our 12,000-seat arena, action at our House of Blues, a salsa band in the Rum Jungle where we actually cook up the juice in a theme eatery, a flotilla of swans at our trio of restaurants run by internationally acclaimed chefs.
This city has already become the leading world-wide destination for traveling consumers of entertainment. Now Las Vegas must serve notice that the best is yet to come. More than builders of big stores, we must become the builders of dream places. Circus' resort cluster on this gateway mile will be such a place, scaled large but also intimate for the pedestrian, where you can look around, look around and discover what's new in the world of fun." - Glenn Schaeffer, President of Circus Circus
This resort was to be the centerpiece of the company's evolving Master plan, such as Mirage for Steve Wynn, and MGM Grand for Kirk Kerkorian. The various aquatics and entertainment venues that will arrive with Mandalay was to eventually serve multiple resorts.
Of course, in the typical Vegas standards, the Mandalay Bay had its share of pre-opening problems. In 1998, Circus Circus stated that the structure was "settling", (site workers called it "sinking"). Circus Circus stated that the resulting damage had been limited to minor cracks in the valet parking garage while workers stated portions of the resort's core have sunk as much as 18 inches, warping door frames, windows and other structures and pulling loose aluminum studs. A Pennsylvania contractor was called in to survey the problem and Nicholson Construction Company installed 536 "pin piles" about four feet apart under the building to support sagging portions of the building. Pin piles are metal cylinders up to eight inches wide that are filled and surrounded with high-pressure grouting. Pin piles were inserted into holes drilled through a steel and concrete mat that allowed the structures built on complex soils to "float," minimizing settling problems. Tests on the pin piles installed at Mandalay showed they are capable of supporting up to 600,000 pounds of pressure per square inch. This maneuver solved the problem and construction continued.
Also in 1998, Mandalay became an actress even before she was finished when she was one of the stars of Discovery Channel's miniseries Buildings, Tunnels and Bridges.
On March 2, 1999, the opening of the $950 million Mandalay Bay took place with over 1,000 people going through the doors. The 3,309 room resort spent approximately $10 million on ads alone publicizing the Strip's newest addition. Dan Aykroyd, Jim Belushi and John Goodman headlined a parade of Harley-Davidson motorcycles through Mandalay Bay's front doors. The primary public area design was by Dougall Design of Los Angeles. Klai::Juba Architects, Ltd., of Las Vegas was the project architect.
In the lobby stands a 14-foot aquarium with 12,200 gallons of salt water. The interior aquarium is 8 feet high and includes 2,600 gallons of water. Behind the registration desk, water runs continuously through a mock dense jungle. Also included are two wedding chapels, and a museum featuring a $40 million dollar collection of rare gold and silver coins, bank notes and Old West memorabilia.
Ornately appointed by award-winning interior design Anita Brooks, the standard deluxe rooms at Mandalay averages 515 square feet and includes an abundance of upscale features. Mandalay contains approximately 500 suites ranging from 690 to 6,670 square feet.
Upscale standard deluxe room features include the following: a desk table with two chairs, his and hers lighted closets, two phone lines with computer and dataport capabilities, a 27" TV in armoire, floor-to-ceiling windows, robes, iron and ironing board. The standard deluxe bathroom offers a separate soaking tub and shower, twin vanities, make-up mirror, third telephone, blow dryer, imported stone floors and surfaces and an enclosed water closet.
A variety of suite designs range from sophisticated and contemporary to a fresh traditional approach inspired by a tropical theme. In addition to many standard deluxe guestroom amenities, suites include an imported stone entry, wet bar with refrigerator, a dining set, spa tub, powder room, 32" up to 48" television and an assortment of brand-name spa products.
Hotel services include 24-hour complimentary valet, 24-hour Room Service with flight kitchens for an express breakfast, full-service business center, 33 registration check-in windows, express check-out, bi-level porte cochere for ease of access, and a dedicated tour and ravel lobby with check-in capabilities.
The casino offers 122 gaming tables and 2,400 slot machines encompassing more than 135,000 square feet of gaming space, including a high-stakes gaming parlor. In addition, a 300 seat full-service race and sports book emphasizes the best in sports and thoroughbred wagering.
There are four lounges in the resort - 206 seat Coral Reed Lounge, 164 seat Island Lounge, 100 seat Turf Club Lounge, and the 100 seat Orchid Lounge.
A lush, 11-acre tropical water environment comprised of a sand-and-surf beach, lazy river ride, three pools and jogging track provides a remarkable recreation and relaxation experience. An outdoor island stage in the sand and surf beach provides additional facilities for events and concerts.
Located at the beach level, the 30,0000 square foot Spa Mandalay overlooks the resort's tropical lagoon. The goal at the Spa is to provide guests the ultimate relaxation experience, an awakening of the senses and rejuvenation of the mind and body.
Staffed exclusively with talented, certified professionals, Spa includes 21 state-of-the-art treatment rooms. The menu of services offers guests diversity using a blend of massage and aromatherapy treatments from cultures spanning the globe. Treatments vary from classic massages such as Swedish and deep tissue, to more diverse selections such as La'Stone Therapy and Shiatsu. Also available is a variety of exfoliating body scrubs and relaxing steam wraps. For the true spa lover, enhance your spa experience by trying one of our Ayurevedic treatments, a true holistic approach to spa body treatments.
Spa also features a 3,000 foot fitness center encircled by floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the tropical lagoon. Personal trainers are available to guests to enhance your workout sessions. Spa Mandalay highlights a full-line of Life Fitness machines for both cardiovascular and circuit training.
The Spa's has been meticulously designed and elegantly appointed with stone floors, brass fixtures, and oak cabinets. Several lounges and juice bars offer guests an exotic array of fruits, snacks, and beverages served throughout the day. Oversized oak lockers include robes, slippers, and towels, while dressing area vanities include a full line of health and beauty products. Relax in one of the many pampering areas inside the spa from the Eucalyptus steam room, the hot dry sauna, or one of the hot, warm, or cold plunge pools.
The Spa also contains the Sun Star tanning beds for a golden tan, as well as a part of the John Paul Mitchell Systems, ::Robert Cromeans Salon::, which offers a variety of beauty treatments and services. The salon contains a team of hair dressers with vision and knowledge of all hair types, textures and techniques that will make your visit to the salon a memorable one. Five star treatment awaits, starting with a fantastic massaging shampoo. The John Paul Mitchell Systems members are dedicated to style and service.
The resort contains shops including Mandalay Bay - The Store for logo memorabilia and tropical casual wear; Rangoon News Bureau for newspapers, magazines, sundries and snacks; Bali Trading Company for South Seas treasures including hand carved works-of-art; Stars Memorabilia for unique and hard to find celebrity memorabilia; Bombay Cigar Company for fine cigars and tobaccos; Cuzzens for fine men's clothing including Brioni suits and other European brands; Portfolio for women's shoes and clothing; El Portal Collection for men's and women's accessories including leather and travel necessities; Galerie Renaissance for fine masterworks of art and sculpture from creators such as Leroy Neiman and Alexandra Nechita; Peal Moon Boutique for designer swimwear, spa merchandise, workout gear, hats, sunglasses and beach footwear; The Enchanted Flora for fresh flowers and arrangements; Jungle Juice Spirits for spirits and Las Vegas keepsakes; and Tropical Gifts and Stuff for Mandalay mementos and children's playthings to take home.
Restaurants include the 383 seat Aureole from Charlie Palmer's renowned New York Aureole; the 200 seat Wolfgang Puck's Trattoria del Lupo; the 140 seat Shanghai Lilly; the 303 seat China Grill; the 100 seat Charlie Palmer Steak (in Four Seasons); the 200 seat Border Grille; the 220 seat Rock Lobster; the 433 seat Rumjungle; the 135 seat Red Square, the 324 seat Raffles Cafe, the 78 seat The Noodle Shop; the 504 seat Bay Side Buffet, and the 170 seat Verandah Cafe (in Four Seasons).
The two wedding chapels are situated on a private island amid exotic island foliage and sweeping views. A staff of experienced wedding coordinators are on hand to assist with arranging a personalized ceremony with wedding packages that include photographs, videography, professional floral arrangements and limousine service. In addition, catering, music and a full service banquet staff can be arranged for the special day.
The Mandalay also contains the 12,000 seat Mandalay Bay Events Center which is the setting for superstar concerts, major sporting events and television specials, and the 1,700 seat Broadway-style Mandalay Bay Theatre, which features headline acts, Broadway productions and other performances.
Mandalay Bay has an 11-acre pool environment including a shark tank and a wave machine that is designed to host world-class surfing competitions. Water gardens with foliage and waterfalls, three exotic pools, and a one-half mile jogging track surrounding the lagoon is also contained therein.
Beautifully adorned with lush landscaping, mystical architecture and sweeping waterfalls, the resort's facade known as the Valley of the Waterfalls, also features breathtaking fire pots with cascading waters and illuminating flames that shoot more than 20 feet in the air.
Mandalay has thought of conventions by via the Mandalay Bay Conference Center. Managed by a team of seasoned convention services and catering professionals, the Mandalay features two state-of-the-art ballrooms, complete with full-service audiovisual, video-conferencing and broadcast capabilities. The South Pacific Ballroom encompasses 44,9000 square feet and may be divided into 10 separate sections. The Islander Ballroom, with 31,800 square feet, may be divided into nine separate sections. Both ballrooms are pillar-less.
The flexible break-out space of 17,086 square feet is available and divided into 17 rooms ranging from 625 to 1,750 square feet. The break-out space contains two permanent boardrooms.
The Bay View Court offers 35,104 square feet of pre-function area (13'-16' ceilings) and overlooks the tropical gardens and pools. It includes the 8,500 square foot Bay View Patio and two information counters with storage immediately behind.
Elegantly trimmed, the conference center offers a soothing color scheme that includes brown, tan, beige, rust, peach and accents of black.
The Mandalay Bay has another hotel in the resort called the Four Seasons which contains 424 rooms. The Seasons occupies the 35th through 39th floors of the 43-story hotel tower. Four Seasons has its own entrance, parking, check-in, five-star dining, pool, spa and convention center. This is the first hotel in Las Vegas history to receive the coveted American Automobile Association Five Diamond award.
The 34th floor of the resort contains the House of Blues Restaurant and Concert Hall, which shows live entertainment, Delta-inspired cuisine and soul-stirring Sunday Gospel Brunch.
Adding a cool and funky element to the Mandalay, the 1,800 capacity music hall and 600 seat restaurant located just off the resort's casino floor, continues to showcase a diverse array of live entertainment nightly.
The entire 34th floor is decorated in the unique style for which the House of Blues has become famous. The 99 House of Blues-themed guestrooms remain wildly popular with hotel guests. High atop of the uppermost floor of the Mandalay, the 18,000 square foot International House of Blues Foundation Room, with its sweeping view of the Las Vegas Strip, sits prepared for exclusive parties, dining and a meeting space.
"We are excited about the opportunities our new partnership with Mandalay Bay has presented. We feel this unique partnership has positioned House of Blues at Mandalay Bay as the premier Las Vegas destination."
- Greg Trojan, President & Chief Operating Officer of House of Blues Entertainment, Inc.
"We are very proud we brought House of Blues to Mandalay Bay. With House of Blues' renowned reputation as a live music and restaurant venue, this partnership sets another standard for entertainment in Las Vegas." - Glenn Schaeffer, President & Chief Financial Officer of Mandalay Resort Group, Inc.
On March 3, 1999, the Mandalay Bay made a daring move in having a Broadway production of Chicago appear at its 1,870 seat Mandalay Bay Theatre with Chita Rivera and Ben Vereen. Ticket prices were $55.00, $65.00 and $75.00.
At 8:00 pm on April 10, 1999, Luciano Pavarotti performed at the christening of Mandalay Bay's Events Center with tickets costing from $50.00 to $450.00.
In creating this website, two establishments has continuously amused me and were a delight in creating. The first was the Silver Slipper that had quite a history and the trouble it caused. The second is the Mandalay Bay which seems to cause trouble in the strangest ways. Besides the sinking during construction, they experienced the following:
The first problem was caused by the Mandalay Bay when it decided that Hacienda Avenue should be changed to be named after the Mandalay. Some people disagreed with this proposition stating why erase the Hacienda totally off of the Vegas Strip. After all, Sands Avenue still exists even though the resort has been replaced by the Venetian (owned by the Sands Corporation). Hacienda Avenue is 1,700 feet in length that runs from Interstate 15 to a dead end at McCarran International Airport. Unlike the other resorts that have entries directly on the Strip, Mandalay Bay's entry is on Hacienda Avenue. On approximately March 4, 1999, the commissioners voted 6-0 to change the name to Mandalay Bay Road, stating that the police and fire departments expressed no concern about the name change confusing emergency vehicles.
The second predicament is what I will call "The Missing Head Incident". Outside the Red Square stands a 14 foot 4,500 pound statute of Russian V.I. Lenin. This statute has caused great discussion with people who either find it humorous or an insult. Letters were being written about it and it was causing quite a stir. Circus Circus, Inc., decided to behead the statute after learning that the heads were removed from many Lenin statues in Eastern Europe. The 250 pound head was hung from the ceiling above the statute. On approximately March 25, 1999, somehow a person(s) stole the head much to the amazement of everyone. A reward of $5,000 for the discovery of the head was posted immediately.
The head was found at a local thrift shop being dropped off during a midnight donation in the beginning of June, 1999. Rumor has it that the restaurant is going to freeze the head in a block of ice that will be used as a centerpiece and displayed in a vodka locker.
As of June, 1999, Circus Circus Enterprises, Inc., became Mandalay Resort Group.
How about some Mandalay Bay trivia:
On September 3, 1999, House of Blues was the place for the arrest of ex-Henderson Mayor Robert Groesbeck for being under the influence of a controlled substance, battery and sex charges after police say he groped a woman then punched a police sergeant. On September 18, Groesbeck pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. According to the plea agreement, Groesbeck was fined $2,000 and 80 hours of community service. He also must donate $2,500 to the Injured Police Officers Association.
In 1999, Mandalay showcased the musical Chicago (first with Chica Rivera, then Marilu Henner). House of Blues showcased Jeff Beck, Burning Spear, Club Rubber, The Crystal Method, DC Talk, Peter Frampton, The Go Go's, B.B. King, Julian Lennon, Low Fidelity All Stars, Ziggy Marley, Ricky Martin, Mavericks, The Neville Brothers, Orbital, David Sanborn, Kenny Wayne Sheperd, De la Soul, Ween, and Dwight Yoakam.
Events Center showcased Brian Boitano Holiday Skating Spectacular, Eagles/Jackson Browne, and ZZ Top/Lynyrd Skynyrd. The Beach showcased The Beach Boys.
For New Years Eve Bette Midler appeared at the Events Center at 9:00pm. Tickets were $95, $300 and $500, which included party favors. Stevie Nicks brought in the New Year at House of Blues. Tickets were $177 and $227. The Mardi Gras New Year's Eve in the Courtyard was $25.00 including a buffet and champagne toast.
On April 22, 2000, Mandalay celebrated its first birthday by featuring the rare performance by the Three Tenors - Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo, and Luciano Pavarotti. Upon learning the Mandalay Bay Events Center would host the first-ever Nevada performance by the Three Tenors, as well as the site of the only West Coast U.S. concert in the year 2000, Mandalay planned the anniversary celebration around this once-in-a-lifetime musical event. Tickets for the celebration were $95, $300, $500, $700, and $900. Room and ticket packages were available.
"Mandalay Bay has had a spectacular first year and we feel that success deserves an appropriate celebration. For our guests, for our employees, and for the many wonderful performers who have helped us make such a dramatic impact on this city in our first year, we want to take an evening to say a special thank you and celebrate our accomplishments. While our grand opening celebration was an evening of extravagance, our anniversary celebration will be an evening of elegance.
We are indeed honored to host an event of such magnitude in the music world. During our first year, Mandalay Bay has demonstrated both the depth and the breadth of our entertainment offerings - from Broadway musicals to championship boxing, from Bette Midler to the Eagles. With this concert, we celebrate both an unforgettable evening of music, as well as our first anniversary." - Michael Starr, Vice President & General Manager of Mandalay Bay
In 2000, Mandalay Bay had a role in the movie Play it to the Bone, co-starring with Antonio Bandaris and Woody Harrelson.
In 2000, the House of Blues showcased Sabastian Bach of Skid Row, Bangles (9/15), Bangles (9/15), Big Bad VooDoo Daddy, George Clinton with P-Funk All-stars (9/6), Coal Chamber, Cowboy Junkies, Creedence Clearwater Revisited, The Deadlights, DIO, Fenix TX, The Fixx, Dan Fogelberg, Full Devil Jacket, Kenny G. (9/30), Godsmack (8/31), Reverend Horton Heat, Jefferson Starship, Dr. John, Kenny G (9/20), Kottonmouth Kings, Lit, Los Straightjackets, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bright McKnight, Steve Miller Band (9/17), Peter Murphy, MXPX, Joan Osborne (9/8), Joe Satriani, David Sanborn, Savage Garden w/Kina (9/10), Save Ferris, Boz Scaggs, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Jill Sobule, Static X with Soulfly & Shuvel & Taproot (9/1), Third Eye Blind and Nine Days (9/2), Tonic with Stir (10/6), Tower of Power, Jethro Tull (8/27), Type O Negative, Ultraspank, Uncubus, and Warren Zevon.
The Mandalay Bay Events Center showcased Classical Mystery Tour, Steely Dan, Juan Gabriel, IBF Junior Boxing, Barry Manilow, 10th Annual LV International Mariachi Festival (9/23), Ricky Martin, Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, Luis Miguel, Mr. Olympia Competition & Fitness Olympia/Ms. Olympia (10/20-21), The Three Tenors, Tiger Jam III benefit concert for Tiger Woods Foundations featuring Christina Aguilera, LeAnn Rimes and Seal (10/7), Fernando Vargas v. Ike Quartey, and Luther Vandross w/Boyz II Men (9/22)..
The Beach Stage showcased Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (9/29), Cheap Trick, Hall & Oates (7/21), Little Feat (9/22), and Toto.
Ongoing is the Shark Reef daily from 10:00-11:00pm.
In March of 2001, Mandalay Bay was tie in the What's On Visitor's Choice Award for Best Pool with Mirage.
On April 26, 2001, unveiled plans to build a 1.8 million square-foot convention center. Mandalay didn't reveal the cost of the project, but said it will be complete and ready for shows in summer 2002. That will give Mandalay Bay 2 million square feet of convention and exhibit space, vaulting it ahead of the Venetian and Venetian's Sands Expo Center for the title of Las Vegas' largest privately owned convention operation. The three-floor center will be built just south of Mandalay Bay's existing convention area, on 16.5 acres at the south end of the property.
The convention center will give Mandalay 1 million square feet of exhibit space, allowing the property to attract huge trade shows that only the Las Vegas Convention Center and Sands Expo Center can now host. The center will also include a 100,000-square-foot "MegaBallroom," which Mandalay is calling the largest hotel ballroom in the nation.
"We found we were so in demand that we were turning business away, business that desperately wanted to be here. With two sister hotels (Luxor and Excalibur), in conjunction with Four Seasons we have over 12,000 guest rooms to offer at various price points ... under one contract. " - Danielle Babilino, Vice President of hotel sales
Mandalay's center will open about six months after the Las Vegas Convention Center's South Hall expansion, which will add 1 million square feet of additional meeting and convention space in January 2002. Once complete, the Las Vegas Convention Center will have 3.2 million square feet of convention, meeting and exhibition space. The Venetian and Sands Expo Center will move down to No. 3 in terms of convention space. The Sands Expo Center has 1.15 million square feet of space, while the Venetian's Congress Center spans 500,000 square feet. No. 4 in Las Vegas will be the MGM Grand, with its 380,000-square-foot conference center.
The decision to build the center will not affect Mandalay's long-discussed plans to build a 1.2 million-square-foot mall between Mandalay Bay and Luxor, a timeframe for its development has yet to be set. Enough land will be left for the development of Mandalay's long-discussed fourth resort south of Tropicana Avenue -- and a business generator will be created for such a property.
On September 17, 2001, Mandalay Bay Group donated $1 million to aid the families of fallen police officers and firefighters who died during the September 11th attacks. The donation was made in conjunction with efforts led by Clark County Sheriff Jerry Keller and Vegas Metropolitan Police Departments. The funds were distributed to appropriate organizations at the direction of Sheriff Keller.
"Our hearts go out to every victim of this unspeakable tragedy, but especially to those who answered the call of those in need. If we can in some small way assist those who walk bravely and willingly into harm's way, we do so without hesitation." - Bill Richardson, Vice Chairman of the Board of Mandalay Bay Group
On September 21, 2001, Mandalay Resort Group announced it will temporarily halt construction of a 1.8-million-square-foot convention center next to Mandalay Bay, a move prompted by the dramatic decline in travel to Las Vegas caused by the September 11th terrorist attacks. Mandalay's shares were off nearly 40% on September 21st from their September 10th closing price of $23.90, which was recorded the day before the attacks. The stock fell $.86 September 11th to close at $14.54. Mandalay was the week's leading decliner on the LVIA Gaming Stock Index, a 13-company gauge of casino industry stocks, which was down 35.9 points, or 14 percent. The index is down nearly 30% since the attacks.
Mandalay Resort Group has yet to spend the bulk of the money for the $235 million convention facility, and the delay is expected to save the company well over $100 million during the next 12 months. Company executives said they'd like to see 40% of their hotel business come from conventioneers and trade-showgoers, rather than the current 21%.
On November 11, 2001, Mandalay hosted the USO benefit "Las Vegas Salutes the Spirit of America." Many impressionists were on hand.
Pictured are Frank Marino as Joan Rivers, Andre Phillip Gagnon, Bill Acosta, Bob Anderson, Fred Travalena, Rich Little, and Joey Scinta. The event was arranged by Stardust's Wayne Newton, Monte Carlo's Lance Burton, and Harrah's Clint Holmes who were in attendance. Other celebrities in attendance were Bob Anderson, The Scintas, Siegfried & Roy, and Earl Turner. National media including Entertainment Tonight covered the event. They raised a total of $250,000.
In 2001, The House of Blues showcased A New Found Glory (10/20), Allcline Trio (6/6), BB King (3/3 & 8/8), Jim Belushi and the Sacred Hearts Band (1/20), Cowboy Mouth with Young Dubliners (1/13), The Cult (8/7), Cult w/Monster Magnet/Stabbing Westward (6/22), Duran Duran (3/30-31), Echo/The Bunnymen (7/21), Eve 6 (5/4), Evening w/KC & JoJo (6/14), Everclear (6/30), Everlast with Dexter Freebish (3/2), Martin Exton (5/29), Fear Factory (8/5), Save Ferris with Sense Field (4/14), Dan Fogelberg (7/13), Fuel (8/17), G3 Tour featuring Joe Satriani/Steve Val/John Petrucci (6/24), G Love & Special Sauce (5/19), The Go Go's with special guest (1/12), Hall & Oates (10/12), Hemlock with Downer, Joynt Chiefs, Drunk with Power & Excon (4/13), Etta James (1/14 & 5/13 & 10/5), Jefferson Starship (4/28), K.C. & The Sunshine Band, Lucy Kaplansky (4/18), Keb Mo' (6/20), Kottonmouth Kings (6/9), Less Than Jake with Teen Ilols (3/10), Lifehouse (10/18), Lloyd's Blue Festival w/BB King/Buddy Guy, (8/8), Yngwie Malmsteen (4/27), Crystal Method (8/15), Midnight Oil (10/13), Nickelback (10/10), Old 97s (5/10), Outkast with Ludacris (3/28), Reel Big Fish/Goldfinger (8/9), Rammstein (10/2), David Sanborn (6/16), Sepultura (4/8), Brian Setzer '28 (8/11), SIN 2nd Anniversary (6/3), Spinal Tap (6/8), Tesla (6/1), W.A.S.P. (10/7), Kenny Wayne Sepherd with Double Trouble & Lizzie West (4/21), and SnoCore Rock (1/19).
The Events Center showcased Barenaked Ladies 3/11), Andrea Bocelli with the Russian Symphony Orchestra (3/24 & 12/29), Gloria Estefan (11/3), Fitness Olympia (10/26), Juan Gabriel with Christian Castro (5/26), Girls Night Out w/Reba McEntire/Sara Evans/Jamie O'Neal/Carolyn Dawn Johnson(7/13), The Guess Who/Joe Cocker (10/19), Rahman v. Lewis (11/17), Holyfield v. Ruiz (3/3), Katarina Witt's Kisses on Ice (3/10), Lynyrd Skynyrd/Ted Nugent (8/11), MTV TRL Tour starring Destiny's Child/Eve/Dream/3LW (8/31), Mariachi Festival w/Jose Luis Rodriguez/Ana Barbara (9/8), Tim McGraw/Kenny Chesney (6/23), Mr. Olympia Judging/Finals (10/27), Joan Sebastian (5/5), Paul Simon/Brian Wilson (6/22), and Tiger Jam IV featuring John Mellencamp & Third Eye Blind (4/28), and James Taylor (10/13).
Storm Theatre showcased Storm.
Beach Stage showcased The B-52s (7/13), Cheap Trick (7/14), Eek-A-Mouse (6/9), The Go-Gos (8/18), Indigo Girls (7/27), Billy Idol (6/15), REO Speedwagon (6/29)
In January of 2002, focus was on the artwork contained in the Four Seasons. Victoria Chapman of Daniel Fine Art Services in Laguna Beach, California described the collection as a fusion of contemporary art and Asian antiques.
The six-foot "Standing Kuan Yin" sculpture from the Ming Dynasty is located in the main hallway on the way to the guest rooms. Directly behind it is "Red Piece", a holographic foil on canvas by Peter Hopkins, an artist who is recognized worldwide in the contemporary gallery and museum world.
Behind the front desk is an oil painting by Cari Guerin, an emerging California artist titled "The Journey". Going along the main hallway, there is the wood figure, "The Scholar" from the 17th century Ming Dynasty. Another is the white marble "Kuan Yin" from the 17th century Ming Dynasty.
In April 2002, Mandalay Resort Group announced they were bowing out of the American Gaming Association (AGA) when it membership expires in July of 2002 (they had been a member since 1995.) It is rumored that a company the size of Mandalay Bay usually pays in the neighborhood of $500,000 a year in dues. Industry watchers said the move reflected a growing feeling that giants MGM Mirage and Harrah's Entertainment Inc., have gained undue influence over the AGA's agenda.
"I view it as a setback for the industry because it's hard to have a unified voice if there's dissension among the leading companies, but industry conditions are very competitive, and relationships in some cases have gotten more strained over the years. Creating an organization like the AGA has been a political balance from day one." - Jason Ader, Bear Stearms Gaming Analyst
In May 2002 - Casino operators reached contract agreements with the union representing waitresses and housekeepers, virtually eliminating the prospect of a strike. The latest agreements between the Culinary Workers Union and the casinos were reached with Mandalay Resort Group, MGM Mirage, Park Place, Aztar Corp., and Harrah's. The new agreements cover about three-quarters of the 40,000 cooks, waitresses and housekeepers the union represents in Las Vegas. Under the new tentative contracts, workers will receive anaverage of $3.24 in increased hourly wages and benefits over the new contract's five-year life. Much of that will go to pay for higher health insurance costs, which workers will continue to receive free of charge.
On August 13, 2002 The Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay welcomed more than 1 million visitors from around the world for the second year in a row. Attendance at Shark Reef reached the 2 million total attendance mark on June 11.
"We knew Shark Reef would be a hit, but because there is nothing else like it wehad no way to be certain that it would be this popular. Obviously, we're very pleasedwith record-setting admissions. Having such a great second year is a testament to the exhibit's enduring appealand the resilience of the world famous Las Vegas Strip, which is steadilyr ebounding from the events of Sept. 11. What we've seen in the first two years is that the exhibit has proven to be avery strong attraction to draw people to Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino on the Mandalay Mile. We will continue to make improvements to keep theShark Reef experience fascinating, informative and maybe even a little scary." - John Marz, Marketing and Events
Shark Reef attracts an average of 83,333 visitors per month and as many as 5,000 a day on busy weekends. The majority of the visitors come from other Strip hotels. An estimated 15%-18% of the visitors are Las Vegas residents, many on repeat excursions to the exhibit.
Since its first year, the 90,560 square-foot aquarium at Mandalay Resort &Casino; has welcomed new additions to its diverse underwater world including feared Red Belly piranhas and ferocious barracuda. Shark Reef is a diverse cross-section of magnificent aquatic creatures, including 100 different species of sharks, exotic fish, reptiles and turtles. Shark Reef features more than2,500 creatures in nearly 1.6 million gallons of seawater.
In 2002, House of Blues showcased 311 (3/2); An Evening with the Fixx (4/19), Anti-Flag & Thrice (3/3); Apex Theory (5/11); The Blasters (5/24); Wayne Brady (7/5-6); Les Claypools' Frog (5/31-6/1); LL Cool J (8/26); An Evening w/Down (5/17); Drowning Pool (4/14); Eat 'M (5/30-31); The Get Up Kids (5/29); Goldfinger (7/20); Peter Green Splinter Group (5/8); Rev. Horton Heat (4/20); INXS (6/1); Cowboy Junkie (6/26); Howard Jones (6/8); B.B. King (2/17, 5/18, 8/7); Kottonmouth Kings (8/4); Tommy Lee (6/29); Norm McDonald (5/25); Joey McIntyre (5/26); Pat Metheny Group (11/15); Gov't Mule/Apex Theory (5/11); O.A.R. (2/15); Rusted Root (5/19); Busta Rhymes (2/23), Vonda Shepard (2/10); Slayer (8/5); Something Corporate (5/10, 5/20); Supersuckers (4/17); Tailgate 2002 (2/3); Geoff Tate of Queensryche (7/25); Tesla (2/16); George Thorogood (3/22); The Tragically Hip (8/9); The TriChromes (6/30); Suzanne Vega (2/9), Jerry Jeff Walker (7/19); Wilco (3/14), Rob Zombie (3/13);
Bay Events Center showcased Paulie Ayala v. Bones Adams II (2/23); Aaron Carter/Dream Street/Linsay Pagano (3/2); Kenny Chesney/Montgomery Gentry/Jamie O'Neal/Phil Vassar (5/26); Fei Yu Chin (5/11); Oscar De La Hoya v. Fernando Vargas (5/4, 9/14); Placido Domingo (3/16), Incubus (4/21), Lenny Kravitz/Pink/Abandoned Pools (8/31); Luis Miguel (1/26), Riger Jam V featuring Don Henley/Train (4/20), Johnny Ruiz v. Kirk Johnson; Britney Spears (5/24-25); Kostya Tszyu v. Ben Tackie (5/18); and Usher w/special guests NAS/Faith Evans/Mr. Cheeks (5/17).
Storm Theatre showcased Golden Rainbow Ribbon of Life 2002 (6/22-23); Barry Manilow (6/6-8); David Spade (5/26); and Storm.
The Summer Concert Series showcased B-52s (7/19); Cheap Trick (7/5); Robert Cray Band (5/31); Foreigner (8/31); Guess Who (6/28); Gypsy Kings (9/1); Hall and Oates (9/28); Heart (8/2); Billy Idol (7/20); Lynyrd Skynyrd (8/10); Meat Loaf (7/4); Reggae Beach Party featuring Eek-A-Mouse (6/22); David Sanborn (8/3); Styx (5/18).
On October 15, 2003, it was reported that the Manadalay Resort Group announced the final name for its new 1,122-suite hotel tower. "THEhotel at Mandalay Bay" is expected to open before the end of the year and will be marketed as a separate hotel from the Mandalay Bay casino resort.
In a statement, Mandalay Resort Group said the tower will offer a "completely different" experience from the Mandalay Bay resort yet will have "all the perks and amenities upscale travelers crave." "While Mandalay Bay represents an idyllic tropical paradise, THEhotel embraces modern architecture, contemporary design and comfortable surroundings," the company said. About 700 people will staff the new tower.
The second floor will have a 13,000 square foot spa and gym. Floors three through six will offer "business suites" adjacent to 5,000 square feet of conference and meeting space. Floors 7 through 38 will feature suites with separate living and sleeping areas including tile entry, wet bar, plasma screen televisions and sitting rooms. Floors 39 through 41 will offer more bedrooms, upscale touches and more space for VIP gatherings. The 43rd floor will feature a 220-seat restaurant and a 200-seat lounge with patio dining.
In 2003, Events Center showcased De La Hoya v. Campos (5/3); The 38th Annual Academy of Country Music Awars (5/21); Cinese Concert featuring Huang Pin Yuan/Sha I/Kan Kan/Annabelle Louie (5/24); Joan Sebastian (5/25); Matchbox Twenty w/special guest Sugar Ray (6/13); Kenny Cheney w/special guests Keith Urban/Deana Carter (6/14); Meat Loaf/Cyndi Lauper (7/26).
House of Blues will be showcasing Everclear (5/12); Jason Mraz (5/15); 50 Cent (5/16); Deana Carter/Diamond Rio/Darryl Worley/Lonestar (5/20); Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (5/23); 702 (5/24); Dual Play (5/25); Musiq (5/31); Rob Halford w/Testament (6/7); Alkaline Trio (6/8); Ziggy Marley (6/20); Boz Scaggs (8/1).
Mandalay Bay Theater will be showcasing Mamma Mia (dark Tuesdays).
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