12.18.2009

CityCenter is Open!

The media coverage of the various Grand Opening festivities of CityCenter has been remarkably extensive and comprehensive. And it goes without saying that MGM MIRAGE has given the community of Las Vegas, and indeed the world, something very special in architecture, design, art offerings, room product, and certainly-exceptional convention, meeting planning, and event opportunities.

Over the past few weeks, MGM MIRAGE Events has had the pleasure, as well as the challenge, to design, execute, and produce some of the most significant events of our 12 year history-all on the stunning CityCenter campus. And not a day goes by without our friends, clients, and associates asking “When can we see pictures”?

So, for the first time, unencumbered by excessive written descriptions, allow us to unveil to you in vivid detail, a photo journal (in no particular order) of the momentous “first events” MGM MIRAGE Events produced at CityCenter. Enjoy!


A stunning lounge environment was produced in the beautiful Mandarin Oriental Ballroom. Every piece of furniture in the next few photos was designed, built, and inventoried by MGM MIRAGE Events. The only exception is the dining chairs







These laminated and brushed metal tables were designed to suspend freely from the ceiling. Note the grid work with dangling vases of flowers overhead.


Clear Lucite buffet structures ensured an open feeling in which delicacies and florals seemed suspended in time. Renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire delighted guests’ palettes.



A bevy of stunningly costumed models provided moments of delight throughout the hotel-emerging ethereally as an elevator door opened, whisking by in rickshaws as guests pulled into the valet area. Each was a living testament to the unparalleled intimacy and sophistication of the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas.





Every woman in attendance wanted a pair of the beautiful “fan” shoes.



One of the many highlights of the evening was our Snow Geisha performing on the terrace through a floor-to-ceiling glass window-with an amazing view of the Las Vegas strip! Every design element was seamlessly fused with the talents of entertainment guru, Doug Johnson.




Violin Virtuoso and Mandarin Oriental “Fan”, Vanessa Mae, provided the climax to the evening with a performance that dazzled the senses.

 

For an exclusive VIP Preview event prior to Aria opening its doors to the public, it was essential the stunning architecture of the property be the main focus. Every design element, food station, and interactive performer was strategically integrated into the surroundings to augment and energize guests as they experienced Aria for the first time-ever!










Outside the Viva Elvis Theater, the new show by Cirque du Soleil, oversized recreations of Elvis’ actual guitars were perched within the setting. Models in clinging, white vinyl were among the bountiful eye candy touches masterfully orchestrated by Barry Morgan.



Atmospheric performers on unique instruments such as this 12’ tall harp were strategically positioned throughout the event space.



Kicking off the Grand Opening festivities were a series of media events. Designs for each were tailored specifically to the property being unveiled to the public…


A custom-crafted, Steel and Lucite presentation backdrop was designed for the opening of Aria.



To highlight the importance of the developments LEED certification, a ribbon was crafted from recycled plastic bottles and imprinted with the Vdara and LEED logos.


We also crafted beautiful monument signs for each property, signifying the LEED certification.


Mandarin Oriental’s ribbon was created with fresh ginger blossoms. Taiko drummers, and lion dance, and a Feng Shui master were included in the ceremony.



The opening of CityCenter has changed Las Vegas for all time. For those with an appreciation of design, fine art, world-class architecture, and the best entertainment and food offerings ever assembled, CityCenter is unparalleled.

As a meeting, convention, and event destination, CityCenter offers clients a diverse array of sites for every need. The campus is also conveniently connected to Bellagio and Monte Carlo via a state-of-the-art tram.

Photography of Aria, Mandarin Oriental by Kelly McKeon. Photography of Vdara by Jim Briare, Craig McCool, and Gordon Absher.