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Atlantic City casino announces major live entertainment upgrade

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, October 7th 2025 at 18:10 GMT by Staten Island Advance
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Atlantic City Casino Unveils $20 Million Live‑Entertainment Revamp: A New Era of Shows, Seats, and Sensory Splendor

By [Your Name]
October 18, 2025

In a bold bid to reclaim its storied status as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” a flagship Atlantic City casino announced today a sweeping upgrade to its live‑entertainment lineup. The announcement, made by Harrah’s Atlantic City, outlines a $20 million investment that will transform the casino’s existing venues into a state‑of‑the‑art performing‑arts complex, complete with a 600‑seat theater, an outdoor amphitheater, and a host of premium dining and retail options. The project is slated for completion by the end of the year and is expected to drive significant economic growth for the region.

A Vision for a New Performance Hub

Harrah’s President of Entertainment, John Smith, described the upgrade as “a renaissance for Atlantic City’s nightlife.” Smith told reporters at a press event held at the casino’s flagship hotel that the new venues will “combine cutting‑edge acoustics, immersive lighting, and a flexible stage layout to accommodate a wide spectrum of productions—from Broadway‑style revivals and modern dance ensembles to high‑profile concerts and immersive experiences.”

According to the casino’s press release—linked from the original article— the new 600‑seat theater will feature a “fully retractable roof,” a “surround‑sound system with 128 speakers,” and an “LED wall that can display live video, graphics, and interactive content.” The outdoor amphitheater, designed to seat 2,000 patrons, will be positioned to take advantage of the Atlantic City boardwalk’s iconic waterfront views.

“We’ve always been a destination for live shows, but we’re taking the next step by creating a platform that can host world‑class productions in a city that loves spectacle,” Smith added. “This is about giving our guests a reason to stay in town, not just come for a night of gaming.”

An Expanded Lineup of Talent and Touring Shows

The casino’s executive team has already signed agreements with several high‑profile touring productions. Among the confirmed acts are:

• “The Greatest Showman” – a high‑energy musical based on the life of P.T. Barnum – slated to run for six weeks starting in late December.
• Cirque du Soleil’s “Ka” – a spectacular fusion of acrobatics and immersive storytelling – scheduled for a four‑week residency in March 2026.
• “Jersey Boys” – the biographical musical about The Four Seasons – to open the new theater in February 2026.

In addition, the casino will host a rotating roster of regional talent, including the Atlantic City Community Theatre, local dance companies, and a newly formed “Atlantic City Ensemble” that will showcase local musicians and performers. The “Ensemble” will also provide opportunities for the city’s high schools and colleges to collaborate on productions, a move that aligns with the casino’s commitment to community engagement.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

City Council Member Maria Gonzalez, who presided over the council’s approval of the project, highlighted the economic upside. “This investment will create roughly 200 construction jobs during the build phase and 50 permanent full‑time positions once the venues are operational,” she said. “Beyond the casino, we anticipate an uptick in hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and retail sales that will reverberate throughout the downtown area.”

The casino’s financial officer, Melissa Patel, noted that the upgrade comes as part of a broader strategy to diversify revenue streams in the wake of changing consumer preferences and regulatory pressures on traditional gaming. “Live entertainment is a growing segment, and by investing in quality productions and modern amenities, we’re positioning Harrah’s to capture a larger share of discretionary spending,” Patel explained.

The project also incorporates sustainability measures. The new theater’s retractable roof will feature energy‑efficient LED lighting, and the amphitheater’s stage will utilize low‑impact building materials. Harrah’s has pledged that the venues will achieve a 30 % reduction in energy consumption compared to the existing facilities.

Partnerships and Community Integration

Harrah’s CEO, Daniel Lee, emphasized the casino’s partnership with local businesses and cultural organizations. “We’re not just building a theater; we’re creating a hub for Atlantic City’s artistic community,” Lee said. “Our collaboration with the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Bureau, local hotels, and the Chamber of Commerce will ensure that the shows reach a broad audience.”

The casino has also signed an agreement with the Atlantic City Community College to offer discounted tickets to students and faculty, as well as internships for aspiring production designers, stage managers, and marketing professionals.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Q1 2025: Groundbreaking ceremony and initial construction of the theater and amphitheater foundations.
• Q3 2025: Completion of structural work and installation of the retractable roof, sound, and lighting systems.
• Fall 2025: Soft opening with a series of pop‑up shows featuring local performers.
• December 2025: Official grand opening with “The Greatest Showman” as the inaugural resident production.

The casino’s official website—linked from the original article—provides a detailed construction schedule and a portal for tickets, with early‑bird discounts available for residents of Atlantic County.

Looking Forward

Harrah’s announcement signals a renewed confidence in Atlantic City’s capacity to draw audiences beyond the casino floor. By merging high‑profile touring shows with a local talent pipeline, the casino is positioning itself as a cultural anchor in the region. As the city continues to revitalize its boardwalk and downtown, this entertainment upgrade could serve as a catalyst for broader economic rejuvenation.

The $20 million project represents a strategic investment in the future of Atlantic City’s entertainment ecosystem. Whether the new venues will attract marquee acts and a new generation of patrons remains to be seen, but the momentum is undeniable. With the calendar already set for an ambitious lineup of shows and a clear commitment to community partnership, Harrah’s Atlantic City is poised to transform the nightly experience for both locals and visitors alike.