As reported by: The Associated Press
Barry Manilow, famous for such songs as "Mandy" and "Copacabana," has signed a long-term deal to perform at the Las Vegas Hilton hotel-casino, executives announced Tuesday.

Manilow, 61, who lives in Palm Springs, will perform five nights a week for 24 weeks through 2005 and into 2006. The 90-minute show premieres Feb. 24 and is called "Manilow: Music and Passion."

Executives declined to discuss contract details.

Manilow said at a news conference at the Hilton that playing Las Vegas made perfect sense after he made the decision to stop touring.

The well-known crooner said the show will include singers, dancers, a large band and new songs.

"It won't be static," he said. "It will change every night."

His theater will hold about 1,700 people.

Manilow said he intends to write a Las Vegas theme song, similar to "New York, New York."

Manilow is following in the footsteps of Elvis Presley, who once performed at the Hilton, and other singers, like Celine Dion, Elton John and Gladys Knight, who have signed Las Vegas deals.


Article By: The Associated Press