SANTA ANA — Las Vegas just got a lot closer to Sandoval County, now that The Stage is opening at Santa Ana Star Casino. Located in the same place the Events Center had been, the two-story showplace has more than a hint of “Sin City” throughout, with top-notch acts being lined up, a tasty selection of light appetizers, custom drinks available at the colorful bars, and privacy for those who want it. It’s dubbed “nightlife for grownups.” It’ll be a Friday-and-Saturday destination for date nights, ladies nights out, and even for singles looking for other singles. What is promised to be upbeat, energetic music will get guests grooving on the dance floor. No smoking is permitted inside The Stage, although there is a balcony afforded for those who want to light up and watch what’s going on in the casino. The Stage opens to the public on Friday. Appropriately enough, on stage that night and again Saturday will be OMG from Las Vegas, Nev. “The vision for The Stage (a multi-million-dollar project designed and crafted by New Mexican businesses) was to create a unique experience,” explained John Cirrincione, general manager of the Star Casino. “I knew it had to be the type of place where people 30 and over could listen to their favorite music, and yet still hold a conversation, to dance, talk, dress up and feel great.” Don’t think 30 is the median age. “Just because you’re over 40 doesn’t mean you’re dead,” Cirrincione, 50, quipped. “We were very diligent in creating atmosphere, … (a place) to let your hair down.” Women are admitted for $5, men get in for $10. There’s a second-floor room, the Sky level VIP Room, sections of which can be booked by small groups wanting to gather for a UFC show to larger groups that want to book the entire room (capacity 300) for private parties, corporate events and the like. The bar features hand-crafted cocktails, a premium beer and wine selection, champagne and wine by the bottle, plus 125 premium spirits. (Drinks range in price from $5 to $12.) Gone are the Neil Diamond-sound-a-likes, appearances by the Temptations and Tony Orlando, and boxing. Cirrincione said he was hoping to get a cross between what he’s seen on “Austin City Limits” and “House of Blues,” which “you know is going to be good.” And he wasn’t just talking about the quality of the musicians, but also the comfort and “intimacy” of the setting for the audience. It appears he’s succeeded. It’s the latest in a series of changes casino-goers have noted: The casino has reconfigured the gaming floor and opened up the aisles, added Sadie’s Mexican restaurant, turned what was once the Cheenah Lounge into Lounge 54, and turned the Event Center into The Stage. It’s all part of the evolution of the business itself, Cirrincione said. “(We went from) ‘This is Your Casino’ to ‘New Mexico’s Best Bet.’ We see an opportunity (and move on it). “I’m a young baby-boomer — this casino wasn’t designed for me, but more for senior citizens,” he continued. “We have to market without losing our clientele, and we’re adding to our core identity a higher end. The Stage draws in a new clientele. … It’s a quality product all the way through.” Incidentally, for those who imbibe more than they should, the Star Casino has made available “Designated Drivers on Demand,” in which possibly impaired drivers can be transported home from the casino, and their vehicles driven there, too. The Star Casino absorbs that cost, Cirrincione noted, and “We’re exclusive with DDD.”
The Stage At Santa Ana Star Casino
Santa Ana Comedy Night
Promotes the culture and values of Santa Ana Star Casino while acting with integrity and honesty. The Host position provides professional and friendly service Communication Skills Experience or skill effectively exchanging and understanding information, verbally or in writing. Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel is much more than comfortable beds and beautiful meeting spaces. Guests will take their stay to the next level by visiting our heated indoor swimming pool, soaking in our relaxing hot tub, or staying active in our fitness center.