It helps to attend the backstage tour before seeing the actual show to get a sense of what goes into all the prep and stagecraft. Reading some of the other reviews, I agree with others that this show is cheesy and mindless, but I loved it all. It was originally conceived as a tasteful and lavish counter to the bump and grind shows elsewhere on the Strip during the 70s. This is the last of the great Vegas showgirl shows and certainly the classiest, colorful and most elegant.
Here are a few observations from attending the backstage tour and seeing the show:
* The costumes are just as beautiful and superbly maintained up close as they are from 15 rows away.
* The Swarovski crystals are technically superior to rhinestones. Because Swarovski no longer makes crystals for costumes, if costumes are missing any crystals, backstage personnel try to find the missing crystals after the show.
* The sets are the most incredible and technically elaborate I've ever seen.
* Showgirls are divided into two main groups: topless and covered-up ("Bluebells"), and then they are sorted by height. Breast size is not a measurement they're concerned with.
* The show's music and chorus singing is taped, but the leads and principal dancers sing live.
* Singer/dancer contracts are for six months, and all performers are evaluated for contract renewal regardless of their seniority. Keeps all performers "on their toes" so to speak.
* Audition notices specify "natural" women; large/fake breasts are not acceptable.
If you go with an open mind, you will love Jubilee! You're watching 30+ years of history.