LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — At first, it was thought it would be weeks but it has turned into months of unemployment for many entertainers and performers at the Las Vegas Boulevard resorts.
There is a lot of uncertainty as some have lost jobs and others continue to wait for their shows to resume.
The spectacle of a Vegas show on the Las Vegas Strip has always drawn crowds all over the world. However, the current pandemic has put it to a halt.
“If you would have told me, we’re shutting down the Vegas Strip, I would have bet you $1 million dollars that would have never happened, but here we are," said William Hulett, a performer in "Zumanity" by Cirque du Soleil.
He’s one of many entertainers still wondering when their shows may come back. And it’s created a rough situation for people he knows.
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“I have many friends that are foreign and on different types of visas and they don’t qualify for a lot of the benefits and assistance,” Hulett said.
Some have already lost jobs with the Wynn shutting down its popular aquatics show "Le Reve." It’s a move that stunned Hulett.
“Le Reve. That’s a pretty big staple in town and that’s comparable to some of our shows. It’s a big production and there’s a lot of money to back that show,” he said.
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Financial analyst Steve Budin says it’s all part of a bigger theme of tourism taking a huge hit in the valley. He believes the road to recovery for Strip casinos will take some time.
“Survey after survey shows that many visitors aren’t going to come back here until there is a vaccine or treatment and remember, these theaters are packing people into very close proximity, So I think we’ll have some challenging times,” Budin said.
Hulett says he has cautious optimism while making short term plans.
“Definitely have a smidgen of hope but I am being reasonable though. As a performer where I get most of my exposure, I sold off some stuff and we’re going to ride this for a minute,” he said.
