The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Atlantis resort will host two unique events this weekend marking the launch of the resort’s “summer in Atlantis” series.

Popular comedian and author Chelsea Handler will perform a stand-up show at Atlantis on Saturday, while Jon Bon Jovi, front-man of Bon Jovi, will sing an acoustic set on Sunday.

Tickets for Ms Handler’s event – which will be held at the Paradise Island resort’s Imperial Ballroom – range from $90 to $300.

Silver tickets cost $90, gold seats are priced at $130 and according to Anthia Butler, associate director of special events, the resort will offer its first VIP experience package at $300.

“You can purchase a package which includes a meet and greet and a chance to take a photo with Chelsea,” she told The Tribune yesterday. “You will receive complimentary valet, an Atlantis LIVE flag and you would have preferred seating guaranteed within the first five rows of the stage.”

“We’ve had a huge response,” she said, when asked about public interest in the event so far. “People always want a good laugh. Ticket sales have been pacing very (well) and we’re expecting about 2,000 people.”

The event, which will begin at 9pm, is suggested for audiences 18 and older.

On Sunday, Atlantis LIVE will feature another performance from a seasoned international entertainer: Jon Bon Jovi.

The Jon Bon Jovi event was initially scheduled for the Baha Mar Casino and Hotel, according to earlier promotional material released about the event.

However due to ongoing construction and another delays in the resort’s opening, the event was moved to Atlantis.

“We expect to be sold out (for) that one, which will also be in the Grand Ballroom,” Ms Butler said. “It will be an acoustic performance and we’re looking forward to hearing classic hits like ‘Wanted,’ ‘Bad Medicine’ and ‘Living on a Prayer’.”

The tickets for the event include a silver ticket for $125 and a gold ticket for $175.

Atlantis is also offering a special Memorial Weekend “buy one, get one free” offer, Ms Butler said, where consumers will be able to buy a ticket to Jon Bon Jovi’s concert and get a free ticket to see Ms Handler’s comedic act as well.

The resort’s next show will feature legendary American singer Tony Bennet and pop star Lady Gaga on June 13.

“There will be an in-house magic show with magician and illusionist Rob Blake performing June 24 around 8pm,” Ms Butler added. “It’s definitely a family show. At the end of summer, there will be a Labour Day weekend show with Keith Urban on September 5.”

Tickets for all the events are currently available for purchase.