After five years, ‘Midnight’ still striking at the Luxor

Friday, Nov. 12, 2004 | 9:28 a.m.

Five years ago this month "Midnight Fantasy" took off its wraps at the Luxor, and Anita Mann's topless production still routinely fills the 350-seat room.

It hasn't lost any of its energy or sex appeal. There have been a few changes since the 1999 debut at Pharaoh's Theatre, but all have been for the better.

The costumes are sexy. The dance numbers tantalizing. The sets spare and functional not detracting from the real focuses of the show, which are the choreography and a cast of some of Las Vegas' most beautiful women.

Fans at one recent performance ranged from an elderly couple who had to use walkers to young newlyweds to single men and women out for a night of entertainment.

And this revue is one of the most entertaining adult shows in Las Vegas not to mention the fact that it is a bargain.

In this age of exorbitant ticket prices, $38.45 is among the lowest for a quality production, either adult or general audience.

The only less-expensive topless show in town is "Bite" at the Stratosphere, a $34.95 clunker that features bare-breasted vampires. You can't beat "Midnight Fantasy" for entertainment value, if you are looking for this kind of production.

While there is a degree of eroticism and enough skin to please most men, the show is not salacious in any way.

Mann knows how to walk the line between sleaze and cheesecake. The production could have gone in many different directions, but she took the high road, creating a classy production that emphasizes song, dance and comedy.

Stand-up comedian Carole Montgomery, who keeps her clothes on, manages to be the most vulgar part of the show -- but the vulgarity is hilarious.

She covers topics such as morning erections, sagging breasts, her work with the PTA and aging.

"It sucks getting old," Montgomery deadpanned. "Every time I sneeze I pee.

"Careful in the front row. I have allergies."

Viagra is a favorite topic.

"There's a warning label on Viagra -- 'If you have an erection for more than four hours call your doctor.' My husband said, 'If I'm erect after four hours, I'm calling everybody I know.' "

The stars of the show are Montgomery, tap dancer Lindell Blake -- whose buff physique must be there as a treat for the female fans -- lead dancer Jennifer Young and vocalist Stephanie Jordan.

Montgomery and Jordan are the only two cast members who don't show their breasts. Blake is often shirtless, revealing his chiseled pecs and six-pack abs.

While the gorgeous Jordan is sometimes scantily clad, showing off a body that holds its own against the rest of the dancers, it is her purring, throaty, exotic voice that is the most sensual thing about her.

Jordan is an accomplished vocalist who has performed with the Doobie Brothers, the Oak Ridge Boys, Pink and a long list of other entertainers. She easily connects with the audience, male and female, with her teasing personality.

She and Young are among those who have been with the show from the beginning.

Young is a passionate dancer who can mesmerize fans with her moves. Two of her standout numbers are "Erotica" and "Black Velvet."

Her supporting cast includes some wonderful dancers, including Natasha Bernasek (who was ill during a recent performance), Dar Brezeznski, Amy Jacobs, Christine Jenks, Jennifer Lynn, Lisa Kunz, Season Northstrom and Stephanie Smith.

The combination of a talented cast, choreography by Tiger Martina, the vision of Mann and costumes designed by Daniel Storey make this production a classic well worth the price of admission.

As it begins its sixth year, "Midnight Fantasy" still has legs, as well as chests.