Publishers note: We have received several requests that CDC Gaming Reports carry more casino entertainment-related commentary.  As neither Ken Adams nor I live in Las Vegas (nor are either of us really qualified), I asked Chris Axelrod, a long-time friend with a solid entertainment background, to contribute his thoughts on various Las Vegas shows (big-and-small, new-or-old, on-and-off the Strip).

My first target was a 4:00 p.m. afternoon family show at the Quad Resort and Casino (which as a Caesars Entertainment property near the new outdoor Linq anchored by the impressive High Roller Ferris wheel) is under subtle renovation. The Quad’s ambiance is generic under the ruins of the former Imperial Palace yet it is functional enough to host shows. The box office was attentive and the tickets at either $44.00 or $33.00 seemed fair enough to experience the “Comedy in Action” themed show of a balancing and juggling talent named Jeff Civillico. This 75-minute one-man performance in the Quad Theater has a seating capacity of 650. I inquired about daily sales traffic during the ticket purchase and was told that this show will easily range anywhere from 200 to 500 daily sales depending upon the general strip traffic. My intrigue then escalated. This must be good I thought as I purchased a premium ticket.

The theater was clean and offered friendly service at modest drink prices at tables ideally situated for viewing both the performer and audience reactions. As expected, the casual crowd was vastly multi-generational and many had prior knowledge based on well-presented online depictions.

Jeff Civillico is a highly underrated talent and delivered a marvelous interactive family show. He is a seasoned performer and focused on adapting the performance to the demographics of the audience at that time. He does not merely go through the mechanical motions. Nobody was texting or watching the time; his genuine passion and intimacy were a delight to all. His fresh spry comedy, unicycle skills, feats of balance and amazing juggling all blended into a variety show that captured the Quad space well and delighted all ages.

Mr. Civillico’s dynamics, energy and passion for the family element would prove a draw in any market seeking to offer family friendly entertainment. He makes a personal effort to patiently greet fans after the show at his merchandise and photo area. He recovers quickly after such a rigorous  performance and the fans flock in awe and appreciation to meet this future star and snap a photo with him.

I have since learned that Jeff Civillico is the spark and driver behind a successful program for pairing professional entertainers with deserving charitable events appropriately called Win-Win Entertainment. He would be an ideal talent choice for nationwide private and corporate events.

Bravo to Caesars for selecting a genuine QUAD matinee idol in Jeff Civillico. With further marketing he will grow into a significant headliner as he has all the attractive components.

We are all jugglers of varying sorts. We could apply our range of talents to render some occasional “Comedy In Action” to brighten the lives of others as well. Viva Jeff Civillico.

Christopher G. Axelrod, a recent Las Vegas resident, has been involved in the entertainment business for over 38 years as an event organizer, talent and producer.