LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Two shows on the Las Vegas Strip are closing, and hundreds of entertainment workers are losing their jobs.
Mad Apple closes September 5. Awakening closes October 10.
Vegas Theater Company Producer and Director Jana Wimer said producing big budget theater shows is hard work.
“Producing shows is difficult. Awakening has almost 200 people, I think, in it. Like between cast and crew, I’ve discovered as a small producer, payroll, and marketing. That’s like the big chunk of your expenses,” Wimer said.
Audience attendance a key factor
Wimer said what makes or breaks the run of a show depends on audience attendance.
“You really never know how your show’s going to do. You have the best show in the world. Getting people to know about it, you know, getting people to buy tickets, getting people out,” Wimer said.
Wimer said the audiences at the Vegas Theater Company are mostly locals. Vegas visitors are split on whether to add a Las Vegas show to their itinerary.
Joa Camila Cuellar is visiting from Spain.
“I’m not really into that. We want to go to the dessert, like the Grand Canyon, do a lot of hiking and things like that,” Cuellar said.
Emilia Gaytan came to Vegas ready to see a Cirque du Soleil show.
“Just want to see all the tricks and all the things that they have to offer. All the bright lights, just a wine, just relax and be on vacation,” Gaytan said.
Concern for cast and crew
Wimer said her concern is for the cast and crew losing their jobs.
“Those poor actors and performers and crew members and all those people that are losing their job and their livelihood. This is a tough industry to be a part of and so I’m sure they’re all very worried,” Wimer said.
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