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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Sunday, April 16, 2006

GOING VEGAS
Riviera for retro-Vegas renovation

By Anthony Curtis

Another of Las Vegas' older casinos has been sold. The north Strip's Riviera has accepted a private investment group's offer for $426.5 million. Although the deal is not finalized, the new owners have already made their intentions for the property known: Rather than raze the aging casino and rebuild, the plan is to renovate and adopt a retro-Vegas theme, essentially whisking the casino back to its glory days.

"THE PRODUCERS" COMING: Adding to the city's inventory of Broadway shows, "The Producers" will open at Paris Las Vegas late summer. No cast or ticket price announcements have been made, but it will be the only production of the hit musical playing west of the Mississippi.

Q. Aladdin is undergoing a changeover to Planet Hollywood. Will the confusing Desert Passage Mall also be redone?

A. The 500,000-square-foot mall is undergoing a $50 million makeover that will replace the North African theme with a more sophisticated look. People movers, sidewalk restaurants, bright signs, and a revamp of the entrances and parking areas will be completed by the end of the year. New floors, lighting and better connections to the soon-to-be Planet Hollywood will be implemented through mid-2007.

For information about Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons and deals, see www.LasVegasAdvisor.com.