The world we live in today is very divided and dark, but thanks to Spiegelworld—the renowned circus, live entertainment and nightlife company—you can count on them for laughter, fun and unforgettable good times.
For over a decade, Spiegelworld has been creating one-of-a-kind, live variety shows that combine cocktail and dining experiences driven by the world’s most talented and daring artists. With a mission to make the world a more art-filled, inspired and playful place, Spiegelworld is unquestionably succeeding, especially with their iconic and highly popular show, Absinthe, in Las Vegas.
Absinthe is a thrilling and entertaining live performance show that blends jaw-dropping acrobatics, daring performances and irreverent adult comedy into a crowd-pleasing spectacle that no other show in Sin City matches. Set in an intimate, vintage circus tent appropriately called the “Spiegeltent” on the Roman Plaza at Caesars Palace, Absinthe has been enchanting audiences since 2011, and on April 8, Spiegelworld celebrated Absinthe’s 14th anniversary by throwing a wild, high-octane Oktoberfest-themed birthday bash.
The evening’s festivities began with a live performance that showcased what Absinthe has come to embody: gravity-defying acrobatics and unapologetically raunchy comedy that result into bursts of loud and hearty laughter. The sold out show—over 600 guests in attendance—were treated to fan-favorite acts that included flirty burlesque singer-dancers; fearless aerial performers showing off incredible strength and precise skills using flexible poles or just a rope suspended from the ceiling; and bone-breaking contortionists. A highlight from Absinthe was witnessing a magnificent hula hoop dancer and seeing skilled acrobats forming human towers and propelling each other over the heads of the audience without any safety harnesses.
Another standout act was from Heather Holliday, one of the world’s greatest sword-swallowers. Her talent is not an illusion or trick. It’s 100 percent real and she must first overcome her reflex gagging at objects touching the back part of her mouth. Long practice controls this reflex. Her performance also includes swallowing a long neon, glass sword, which she impressively holds the world record. It’s surely a sight to behold and witness. You won’t believe it!
An additional standout moment from the anniversary show was a hilarious lap dance competition where members of the audience were randomly chosen to participate in the racy contest. The anniversary marked its 16,736th lap dance, a traditional, unfettered audience moment where no one can predict the outcome. An older couple won with a very raunchy and titillating performance!
Ross Mollison, the founder of Spiegelworld and also known as the Impresario Extraordinaire, gave a toast to mark the special occasion. “Over the past 14 years, we have had some incredible anniversary parties and themes from zombies to togas to an invasion from Mars. It’s a reflection of the fact that we never stand still,” he said proudly. “Even as we clock up another year of Absinthe, we are always working on new ideas. It’s never the same show twice. And we will continue to search for new ways to extend the definition of what Vegas circus can be, as we attempt to keep this show at the forefront of our town’s wonderful entertainment offering.”
The energetic bash commenced with a lively afterparty held in the Green Fairy Garden located just outside the Spiegeltent. It was an inclusive Bavarian beer-fueled revelry where guests were treated to complimentary pretzels with Schwarzbier cheese, grilled bratwursts with sauerkraut, gingerbread cookies, and punchy one-night-only cocktail creations. Ticket holders gathered with the show’s performers—many dressed in Lederhosen garb—and danced to pop tunes like Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” from the Garden’s newly unveiled Tree-J Booth, built directly into the base of Absinthe’s lit up Electric Oak. In true Absinthe fashion, the afterparty was both kitschy and exciting that went into the early morning hours.
Since its debut in 2011, Absinthe has elevated Las Vegas entertainment with its mash up of artistry and absurdity, and continues to redefine the Strip with its unique experiences that includes their Italian American restaurant Superfrico at The Cosmopolitan. Superfrico reimagines classic Italian American dishes while dazzling you with their psychedelic ambiance that offers guests a full sensory overload of wall-to-wall eye candy and impromptu live entertainment. As soon as you walk through the main entrance, you’re immediately transported to another world that is silly and amusing. Plastered with neon lights and splashes of artsy color, the vibe of the restaurant is eclectic. The Superfrico experience is part dinner and part parody show that included a talented juggler and a rotating cast of characters in costumes. At one point, a man dressed as a ballerina hilariously showed off his moves and strutted around to each table.
Superfrico’s food is delicious and the standout dish is the chicken parm, which was very filling and had the perfect balance of crispy, seasoned chicken with creamy mozzarella, rich tomato sauce, and a flavorful, golden-brown breading. Another winner was the soppressata meatballs made of dry aged beef and heritage breed pork, roasted garlic, oregano and served with creamy whipped potatoes.
For a truly playful and memorable Vegas experience, we highly recommend checking Spiegelworld’s experiences at Absinthe and Superfrico. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
Absinthe performs Sunday – Thursday at 8pm and 10 pm. On Friday – Saturday, show time is at 7pm, 9pm and 11 pm. For more information and to purchase tickets visit Spiegelworld.com/Absinthe.
Superfrico at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is open daily from 5pm to 11pm.