The Real Deal! - to Bring Poker to the Venetian Showroom

If you were in search of more evidence to the growing popularity of poker, the Venetian has announced that the poker themed stage show "the Real Deal!" will open in the fall. While it's not quite Blue Man Group meets the felt, audience members will not only get to watch some of the biggest names in poker history on the main stage, but play against the pros from their seats for cash and prizes.

The cast of pros includes Doyle Brunson, Phil Hellmuth, Daniel Negreanu, Scotty Nguyen, Jennifer Harman, Antonio Esfandiari, Phil Laak, Todd Brunson, Gavin Smith and Eli Elezra. The cast has combined tournament earnings nearing $50 million, 35 total WSOP bracelets and eight WPT titles.

"The Real Deal!" sits the fence between stage show and game show. The audience will be equipped with wireless handheld devices, allowing them the opportunity to play with poker legends. Audience members will earn points towards prizes; from merchandise, to electronics, to $1 million cash. You'll need a royal flush for that last one. At the end of the show, the top audience member will find him or herself seated at the three-handed final table.

"Poker fans have been able to view and enjoy professional poker action for years on television," said Doyle Brunson, lead professional of "The Real Deal!" cast. "This is different. Everyone in the audience can be in the game and compete with the pros and other guests. It is a one-of-a-kind-poker experience."

"The Venetian sets the standard for entertainment in Las Vegas and we are excited to add 'The Real Deal!' to our existing line-up of world-class shows," says Jason Gastwirth, vice president of entertainment for Las Vegas Sands Corp, parent company of the the Venetian. "When looking for a new concept to add to our entertainment line-up, we searched for an entirely new experience that would promote audience participation while incorporating well-known personalities that shine beyond the bright lights of the Strip - we found that in 'The Real Deal!'"

"The Real Deal!" is set to run six days a week in the Venetian Showroom. Shows will begin at 4 p.m., with special prime-time performances scheduled for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Purchase a VIP package and in addition to the show, you can meet the pros after the show. For more information, visit therealdeallv.com.

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