The world-famous Chippendales male revue has been tantalizing audiences at Rio Las Vegas for over twenty years. And this summer, they’ve gained an all-female counterpart at the off-Strip resort. It’s called EXXCITE, and it performs every weekend at DUOMO inside Rio’s Masquerade Village.
Jennifer Romas (left) and the cast of EXXCITE
EXXCITE represents a new chapter in female sensuality by Jennifer Romas. A cast of eight highly-talented performers takes the audience on a journey that’s a little bit burlesque, a whole lotta rock, and an overall great time. While other revues can be filler until the tops come off, EXXCITE lives up to its name by dazzling throughout the seventy-five-minute running time.
Gabie Lopez as “Queen of the Night”
Romas appears only briefly during EXXCITE, providing an introduction and post-finale cast shout-outs. Yet the DNA of her artistry is front, center, and all around the DUOMO showroom. The small-ish venue is somewhat hampered by low ceilings, yet every nook and cranny of the performance space is filled.
As with SEXXY, which ran for several years at Westgate Las Vegas, props play a big part in EXXCITE. A claw-foot bathtub, an ornate throne, a settee in the shape of luscious lips, a suspended hoop, and a mock motorcycle are all taken for a ride.
Naturally, poles play a big part in many of the production numbers. They’re utilized in a variety of impressive, eyebrow-raising ways that you might not have seen before. There are even a few aerial numbers to capture your attention.
Emcee responsibilities are handled by “Queen of the Night” Gabie Lopez. The charismatic singer, who is relatively new to Sin City, honed her chops on cruise ship stages. After a year of entertaining in Japan, the California native returned to the States and has performed up and down the Strip. Now she emerges as EXXCITE‘s breakout star. With her powerful voice, slinky frame, and striking looks, Ms. Lopez alone is worth the price of admission.
Every member of the EXXCITE cast is strikingly attractive, amazingly athletic, and engaging. Their collective grace and individual personalities are enhanced by intricately-detailed costumes that would be at home in a much larger show. And I was told that a forthcoming LED backdrop will amplify the production’s scale even further.
It’s worth noting that, during the Monday performance that this writer attended, a significant portion of the audience was male/female couples. They appeared to be enjoying the show as much as the dudes who arrived in groups to get their groove on. That’s a testimony to the universal appeal of female revues and, by extension, the “Romas” brand.
If there is one caveat to EXXCITE, it’s the sound design. Even though rock music is the core of the show, its bass-heavy soundtrack literally rattles the walls and fixtures. It can be quite overwhelming during some segments, especially in such an intimately-sized theater. You might want to consider earplugs if you’re sensitive to blasting music.
Photo by VEGAS 411
All in all, EXXCITE is indeed an exciting night out and a worthy reason to revisit Rio Las Vegas. Damian Costa’s DUOMO and CUPOLA CAFE are brave newcomers as the beleaguered resort preps for a full renovation. We’ll be back in the near future to experience the dining/cocktails side of DUOMO. In the meantime, you can see all of its entertainment options by clicking here.
Photo by VEGAS 411
EXXCITE performs Saturday through Monday at 10pm. DUOMO is located within Masquerade Village at Rio Las Vegas. Tickets start at $43 (plus taxes/fees) and can be ordered here. Audience members must be eighteen years of age or above. Free photos with the cast are available after the performance.
Photos/videos courtesy of Bill Hiltz unless otherwise noted
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