Here are a couple things to keep in mind when you’re heading out to catch one of these concerts, comedy shows or dazzling dance spectaculars this weekend. Pearl Jam was forced to cancel its first show in Las Vegas in some 16 years because of a positive COVID test and will not be taking the stage Friday night at MGM Grand Garden Arena. And the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) is back in Vegas for another fabulous festival all weekend long, so expect crowds and traffic along the Strip. These events are worth the trouble.
OLIVIA RODRIGO The pop phenom has performed in Las Vegas recently during awards shows and music festivals but now she’s bringing her Sour Tour to the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan, ready to reel through all her ubiquitous hits and then some. May 20, cosmopolitanlasvegas.com.
DEREK HOUGH The dancer, choreographer and all-around music man reopened his unique “No Limits” show at the Summit Showroom at Venetian earlier this week, and it’s great to have him back. Dates are on the books all summer long, packing this intimate room with a whirlwind stage show spotlighting multiple genres of dance and music and an incredible cast of performers. May 20-21, venetianlasvegas.com.
JIM GAFFIGAN No comedian has a stage presence like Jim Gaffigan. It seems like the less he cares about a subject, or the more it frustrates him, the funnier he gets. You have two more chances to see him play Encore Theater at Wynn this weekend, and then he'll be back on the Strip in August. May 20-21, wynnlasvegas.com.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD Her first-ever Vegas residency show “Reflection” has quickly emerged as one of the most acclaimed new productions on the Strip. Catch one of the country star’s last Resorts World Theatre shows this weekend before she heads out on a summer tour. May 20-21, rwlasvegas.com.
CARMINA BURANA Fresh off an epic celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Nevada Ballet Theatre caps the season with three performances of the iconic production “Carmina Burana,” including a live orchestra and operatic singers. But the focus will be on movement and the way these essential artists express themselves. Make your way back to Reynolds Hall at the Smith Center for this important event. May 20-22, nevadaballet.org.
MARLON WAYANS The comedian, actor and producer behind some of your favorite TV shows and movies has been spending significant time in Las Vegas lately. For this visit, Wayans hits the stage at the M Resort Pavilion, priming the southwest valley for a memorable night of laughs. May 21, themresort.com.