I’ve seen V The Ultimate Variety Show a few times now. And I wouldn’t say that it’s the absolute best show in Las Vegas, but I do think it’s worth seeing at least once.
It’s so ridiculous and stupid at times that you can’t help but laugh. And the emcee, Wally Eastwood, is outstanding. He steals the show, and I’d go back just to see him again!
V is also reasonably priced, so it’s a fantastic option if you want to see a Vegas show without breaking the bank.
So in today’s post, I’ll be sharing what the show’s like, how to get the best seats, the types of acts you’ll see, and other FAQs.
Let’s get to it.
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What Is The Ultimate Variety Show?
The Ultimate Variety Show is exactly what its name implies. It’s a bunch of different acts from all over the world.
For instance, you’ll see talent from Japan, Russia, Hungary, and the good ol’ USA. V includes juggling, magic, feats of physical strength, daredevil stunts, and downright silly stuff.
Many of the stars have even been featured on TV competition shows like America’s Got Talent!
There are currently 12 performers that rotate nightly with different acts. During the show, you’ll see seven performances, so you’ll likely never get the same show twice.
The emcee does his comedy routines between the acts, which are my favorite part of the entire show.
I will say, though, that each time I’ve gone, the show starts a little slow. To the point that I’m actually concerned it’ll be that way the entire night. But don’t worry, it does get better as the show goes on!
Most of the acts are pretty impressive. There are a few that I felt indifferent about or could do without, but overall it’s entertaining.
Video: Get A Sneak Peek Of The V Show
History
I don’t know about you, but I love to learn the backstory of how something got its start. And the history of The Ultimate Variety Show doesn’t disappoint!
David Saxe, who is V’s producer, spent his childhood backstage. Both his mother and father were involved in the entertainment industry in Las Vegas. David’s mom was a showgirl, and his dad was a bandleader.
Back then, variety acts weren’t the focal point of a production. Instead, they’d be featured during set changes or when there was some downtime during a performance.
But David saw something special in these acts and thought they deserved a show of their own. So he set out to produce a variety show that would highlight top talent from around the world.
His dream turned into reality when The Ultimate Variety Show opened at the Venetian in 2002. It was so successful that David decided to build a theater specifically for it.
Two short years later, the show premiered at Planet Hollywood at the V Theater. It’s still going strong there today, with performances frequently selling out on the weekends.
V Theater Information
The theater is designed with stadium-style seating. So each row is higher than the one before it, ensuring that everyone can see the stage.
It’s not the newest space, though. Instead, it reminds me of an old movie theater – like where the latest release movies go after they’ve been out a while.
So expect the seats to be sunken with some padding. Nevertheless, they’re fairly comfortable for most people.
You won’t find a lot of legroom here either. Think airplane tight or even tighter. So if you’re tall or have long legs, things may feel a little cramped. But you likely won’t notice it once the show starts because you’ll be laughing so much!
As far as other comfort measures go, it gets pretty warm. I was comfortable wearing a dress, but the guy next to me in pants and a long-sleeved shirt was sweating it out.
It’s definitely not like how cool and air-conditioned it is at the Mat Franco Las Vegas Show, that’s for sure!
So I’d say dress like it’s the summertime. And don’t worry about bringing a jacket unless you’re seeing the show during the winter months.
Location
The V Theater is located on the first floor inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood.
It’s easy to find. Just ask your taxi or rideshare driver to drop you off at Planet Hollywood and follow the signs overhead to the Miracle Mile Shops.
Discount Tickets & Cost
There are three ticket options available for The Ultimate Variety Show.
- General Admission (GA): Seats are on the sides of the showroom or in the back.
- VIP: Most seating here is in the center of the venue. There are also some VIP seats in the front rows of the side sections.
- Front VIP: These rows are the closest you can get.
Also, as long as you buy your tickets in the same transaction, they’re guaranteed to be together.
Please remember, though, that you can’t pick your seats, only the section, i.e., General Admission. So the box office will assign your specific seat number and row.
How the venue determines seating assignments is based on several factors. But, I will say, I noticed when I arrived early, I got much better seats than when I showed up a few minutes before showtime.
Are VIP Tickets Worth It?
Because the theater is small and intimate, every seat in the house has a view. So I wouldn’t be too concerned with seating, especially if you’re on a budget.
With GA, you’ll most likely be off to the sides, but it’s not super far away that you won’t be able to see anything. That said, if you don’t want to spend the night turning your head, VIP tickets are the better option.
The cost difference isn’t that much either. And VIP gives you the ability to cancel with a full refund if something comes up. So from that perspective, I think it’s worth buying them over GA.
I’ve gotten both general admission and VIP tickets, and I prefer the VIP tickets, hands down.
But if you want to save a few bucks, then go for GA. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with your seating location. Overall, the general admission seating isn’t bad at all!
Where To Pick Up Your Tickets
You can pick up your tickets at the V box office, conveniently located next to the theater.
Tickets are typically available about 30 minutes after your online purchase. Or you can wait until the event night and pick them up then, which is what I’ve done both times.
When To Get In Line
The line to get into the theater opens about 20 to 30 minutes before showtime.
But being first in line has no impact on your seating location because your seat number and row are already printed on your tickets.
So feel free to arrive early, pick up your tickets, and grab a drink at the Showgirl Bar. Or walk around the shops before showtime. You won’t be missing out on anything by standing in line.
Show Dates & Times
Performances run nightly at 7 pm and 8:30 pm. Yes, seven days a week! And the show lasts about 60 – 75 minutes, depending on the acts.
V – Ultimate Variety Show: FAQs
Here are some of your most asked questions about The Ultimate Variety Show in Las Vegas.
Can You Drink During The Show?
Yes, you can! But, there are a few essential things to know.
First, there isn’t a bar inside the showroom. And secondly, the venue isn’t offering cocktail service right now. But you can still get drinks at the Showgirl Bar and bring them into the venue with you.
If you’re facing the V Theater, the Showgirl Bar is to the right of the venue. It’s only a few steps away, so you can quickly order drinks before the show starts.
No other outside food or beverages are allowed in the showroom, though.
Is It Family-Friendly?
The Ultimate Variety Show is family-friendly. It’s all clean and good fun. If there’s any adult content in the jokes, it’s presented in a way that children aren’t likely to understand. So I wouldn’t hesitate to take kids to this Vegas show.
And if you like variety shows, another option you might want to consider is America’s Got Talent Live. It recently opened at the Luxor, and it’s also kid-friendly.
But if you’re interested in seeing a more adult show, you might want to check out Absinthe.
How Far In Advance Should You Buy Tickets?
If it’s a big weekend in Vegas like MDW, LDW, or New Year’s Eve, then it’s a good idea to get your tickets as soon as possible.
Other than that, you can pretty much get them a few days in advance. Or sometimes even on the night is fine.
Some sections may sell out faster than others, though. So if you know for sure that you want to go, we recommend getting them in advance for the best selection.
And again, there’s not much risk if you’re getting VIP tickets. Those have free cancellation up to 24 hours before showtime.
What Acts Are In The Ultimate Variety Show?
Please note that the following acts are just some of the ones I saw at the show I went to in June. This doesn’t mean that you’ll get to see the same performances as there’s a rotating cast.
Acrobatic & Balancing
At the last show I went to, V began with a guy from Japan twirling hula hoops. I know that sounds lame, but stay with me, it gets better.
As his act continued, the props got larger until he was in a big ring rolling all around the stage doing acrobatics. Considering how much he was flipping, it was pretty impressive that he didn’t fall into the crowd.
The V show also ended with a talented acrobatic duo – Iouri and Gabor. They’re a hand and body balancing act from Europe. The duo’s strength is mind-blowing, and I was worried for their safety the entire time. Talk about a nail biter!
Puppet
Yes, puppets! Although not marionettes in the traditional sense. And I’m not even sure that the group behind them (The Quiddlers) would refer to what they do as a puppet act. But it’s the best way I can think of to describe them to you.
For instance, the bodies aren’t real, but the heads are live actors. So you’ll get to see some hilarious facial reactions and bodily movements as they dance around the stage. It’s a physical comedy act at its finest!
During the show, you might watch a micro Michael Jackson and a monkey throw bananas everywhere. It’s incredibly idiotic, and you can’t but laugh!
The group also does a routine choreographed to the song, YMCA. The guys do all sorts of funny dance moves and other “actions.” (I’ll let you figure out what I mean by that.) It’s definitely out there and all in good fun!
Comedy
The Crazy Gauchos were hysterical and one of my favorite acts of the entire show. You’ll get to see “rhythmic drumming and dancing” combined with comedy from the duo’s Spanish background.
Now I don’t want to give too much away here, but I will warn you. If you don’t do what they say, they may start their act all over again!
They made lots of jokes relevant to what’s happening right now too. So they weren’t just repeating stuff from shows in the past.
The duo does some tricks as well. And I highly recommend trying to get up on stage with them. It might be dangerous, but it’s well worth it!
You’ll also get lots of laughs from the emcee of the show, Wally Eastwood. Not only will you get to play “name that tune,” but you’ll learn all about his family and growing up in the circus. His juggling talent is impressive too.
I’d go back just to see Wally and the Crazy Gauchos. That’s how much I loved them!
Magic
If you’re bringing the kiddos, they’ll enjoy the magician. He’s a master at sleight of hand and pulls out lots of playing cards and birds during his performance. There were a couple of times, though, when I thought I could see how he did his tricks.
So, overall, I felt indifferent about this act, but he sure does have a lot of birds! And I will say that I was impressed when he turned a paper bird into a real one.
Is It Okay To Take Pictures?
Unfortunately, you can’t take photos during the show. Thus, my lack of pictures in this post.
You’re welcome to take a few snaps of the theater before the show, though. Or after, when the cast is on stage.
Can You Eat Dinner During The Show?
V – The Ultimate Variety Show is NOT a dinner show. So you’ll want to grab food either before or after.
What Are The Top Restaurants Nearby?
If you’re coming to The Ultimate Variety Show and you’re on a date, there are some romantic restaurants nearby.
My favorite choice is the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, which serves French cuisine. It’s more expensive than most restaurants, but you’ll get amazing views. The restaurant sits over 100 feet above Las Vegas Blvd.
The Eiffel Tower Restaurant is at the Paris Hotel, next door to the Miracle Mile Shops. From there, you’ll have only a short walk to the V Theater.
Other date night favorites of mine are Beauty and Essex and Koi.
Gordon Ramsay Burger at Planet Hollywood is a fun spot for kids and families. The restaurant offers comfort foods like burgers, shakes, fries, and hot dogs.
There’s also Rainforest Cafe that’s just outside Planet Hollywood.
Any Recommendations For After The Show?
After The Ultimate Variety Show, you can head across the street to the Bellagio fountains. The show runs nightly (weather permitting) every 30 minutes before 8 pm. And after that, it’s every 15 minutes.
The water show is a great attraction for both kids and adults.
If it’s a date night or you’re with a group of friends, Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails at the Cosmopolitan has live music. This place is a hidden bar and a fantastic spot for dancing and meeting new people. There are even bottle service tables available.
Or, if you like clubs, there’s also Marquee Nightclub at the Cosmopolitan.
Conclusion
Overall, I think V The Ultimate Variety Show is a good show and worth checking out. The acts are all so different that it truly offers something for everyone.
I wish there were a few more performances, though, so the show lasted longer. I had fun both times I went, but it was only about an hour.
And I was most surprised by how much I laughed each time. But, of course, it’s ridiculous humor, so grab a drink before you go inside. You’ll appreciate it that much more!
As Wally says, it’s not as good as a Cirque du Soleil show, but it gets better as the night goes on!
