Now Appearing

Monday, Oct. 10, 2005 | 9:08 a.m.

Jerry Fink

A behind-the-scenes feud has taken center stage at the Riviera.

Norbert Aleman, producer and creator of "An Evening at La Cage," describes the conflict as a family squabble between him and "La Cage" star Frank Marino.

"There is no animosity, no tension," Aleman said. "We have a great relationship.

"I love Frank, but he is like my kid. Sometimes he has to be spanked."

The spanking took the form of a letter Aleman recently sent to media reminding everyone that the outspoken Marino was merely an employee.

"It has come to my attention that Frank Marino has approached and sent press releases misrepresenting himself as the producer, co-owner and the only star of 'La Cage' ..." Aleman wrote.

"I am the sole owner of 'An Evening at La Cage' and 'Crazy Girls' ... although we appreciate the publicity and give our heartfelt thanks for your recognition during the (20th anniversary) celebration of the show, Frank's one-sided PR campaign caused a serious mismanagement of our publicity campaign along with confusion.

"The other cast members were left out of many of the news stories and their performances are just as important to me in 'La Cage.' The Riviera has also expressed disdain that they were rarely mentioned during his personal campaign."

According to the letter, Marino's publicity "caused many hurt feelings of some very talented performers ... The true focus of 'La Cage' is that of the full production impersonator revue."

Marino reacted angrily to Aleman's missive.

"I never sent that press release," he said. "In the 20 years of working at the show, I never once claimed to be the producer, the owner or the only one in the show -- I am the star of the show, but I do work with 15 other extremely talented performers.

"I have no control over what reporters write or how TV people edit their film and stories. I always do my best to promote the show and also present the Riviera in the best light."

Marino said the letter Aleman sent confused a lot of people.

"I received one call after another asking what it was about," he said. "Nobody had ever received such a press release Norbert referred to."

Asked about the relationship between him and Aleman, the Joan Rivers impersonator said, "There isn't one. Like a Thanksgiving turkey, stick the fork in and it's done."

Although emotions seem to be boiling over, apparently Aleman and Marino will continue their business relationship.

Marino recently extended his contract with the show another five years.

"I have no intention to change anything in the show," Aleman said. "We have a contract. His job is safe. I don't mind for him to promote himself, but not the way he does it. The other guys are upset -- he never talks about them.

"The letter I sent, it was not meant to bring out problems, just to clarify."

Marino says he will fulfill his contract, "if I'm left alone to do so."

He said he has offered to resign.

"I have no problems of stepping down if I'm asked to do so," Marino said. "I would love to open my own show."

Win Gans' 'Vette

Impressionist Danny Gans has raised over $50,000 for victims of Hurricane Katrina, selling chances on his customized 2001 Z-06 Corvette (2,600 miles).

There are three weeks left to purchase a raffle ticket.

Gans will draw the winning number during a performance at 7 p.m. on Oct. 30, the day before he will close his show for three months to recover from shoulder surgery. His show will resume Feb. 6.

Tickets, $20 apiece or six for $100, may be bought at the Mirage box office or by calling 792-7600.

You need to be present to win.

Money raised will go to the American Red Cross and the MGM Mirage Voice Foundation Katrina Recovery Fund.

Gans says his goal is to raise $100,000.

"Dracula's Audition"

The musical comedy "Dracula's Audition," featuring the Nevada Youth Theatrical Ensemble, is at the New City Theatre (2900 E. Patrick Lane) through Oct. 29.

The free performances (which include free food and drinks) are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Reservations are required.

For information call 795-0487.