The Casino File: Hard Rock AC books Bob Saget, two other comics; Rivers Philly offers Easter dinner special
By any measuring stick, there hasn’t been a lot to laugh about in Atlantic City (or anywhere else for that matter) the past year. That is about to change as Hard Rock Hotel Casino has announced three upcoming performances by standup comics that herald a return to headliner entertainment in the seaside gambling capital.
Tickets are now on sale for performances by Bob Saget (April 17), Vic DiBetetto (April 23 and 24) and Andrew Santino (May 30). All three shows are set for Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the 7,000-seat multi-use facility that will be limited to a maximum attendance of 500 per state COVID guidelines.
According to Hard Rock President Joe Lupo, the casino decided to book the gigs based on the success its Motor City Live Motown Records tribute has enjoyed since it became the town’s first post-COVID-19 entertainment offering when it launched in February (there are two or three performances scheduled every weekend through Memorial Day weekend).
According to Lupo, comedy was the logical way to go in terms of bringing back headliners.
“Comedians seem to be looking for work more so than music artists or bands, especially being that it is much easier from a travel and production standpoint to produce a [standup] show,” he said. “Many comedians have been writing and need to try out new material with a smaller crowd, so our venue works perfectly for them.”
Unfortunately, Lupo couldn’t pinpoint a time when the sound of music made by A-list acts will again be heard in the complex whose brand is built on rock and pop history.
“We will try to have some musical artists as soon as possible, but I am sure many are looking at not only New Jersey, but also how occupancy limits in rooms all over the country would impact them on a small tour,” he reasoned. “Therefore, they may not be playing together much right now and to do a one-off show is simply more difficult.
“So, while we have no timetable, we will look to bring in music acts when travel, production and rehearsing are more definitive.”
While Lupo is hoping the Rock will host a number of headliner appearances this summer, he couldn’t commit to anything specific because of the ever-changing virus situation.
“We are very optimistic about the summer and fully expect to have a great entertainment lineup,” he offered. “However we still have the unknown of our occupancy limits. Therefore we are still cautious as to how many shows will take place, how big the headliner will be and who may postpone until 2022.”
For tickets to the three announced performances, click here.
Easter eats at Rivers Philly
Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House, the high-end dining room at Rivers Casino Philadelphia is marking the Easter holiday with a special three-course dinner.
Between 4 and 10 p.m. March 31 to April 4, $65 will get you a bowl of lobster bisque or house salad, a choice of crab cakes, king crab-stuffed flounder or grilled salmon and a white chocolate raspberry mousse cake for dessert. All diners 21 and over will also receive a glass of house wine.
For reservations, click here.