the real deal!

The Venetian in Las Vegas unveils a first-of-its-kind poker-themed stage show.

By NEVADA MAGAZINE | January/February 2009

Photo: Jacob Andrzejczak (PR, all)

In October, “The Real Deal!,” the first live interactive poker-themed stage show, premiered at The Venetian in Las Vegas. Hosted by comedian Vinnie Favorito, “The Real Deal!” is a 90-minute extravaganza that gives audience members a chance to play against the world’s best professional poker players to win prizes—and bragging rights.
Two members of The Real Deal! professional poker team compete with six amateur players from the audience in a tournament-style game of Texas Hold ’Em. At the same time, the rest of the audience is the “ninth player” competing against the table and gathering points through wagers on the action, side bets, and other games.
Each audience member also has a chance at winning $1 million (payable over 20 years). Showgoers are equipped with handheld devices to play the game; you must be 21 or older to attend.