The venue was named Aladdin Theatre for the Performing Arts from its opening in 1976 until 2006, Theatre for the Performing Arts from 2006 until 2007, Planet Hollywood Theatre for the Performing Arts from 2007 until June 2012, PH Live at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino from June 2012 to December 2013, The AXIS at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino from December 2013 to February 2018,[2]Zappos Theater from February 2018 to March 2023,[3]Bakkt Theater from March 2023 to August 2024,[4] and PH Live since August 2024.[5]
History
While this location was known as the Aladdin Hotel, the owners decided to create a performing arts center to replace the mildly used golf course. Planning began in 1969, with concepts showing the venue as a separate building. In 1972, the hotel was sold to Sam Diamond, Peter Wevve, Sorkis Wevve and Richard Daly.
The theater opened on July 2, 1976 (America's bicentennial weekend), with Neil Diamond, who was paid $750,000 for five sold-out shows. During the 1970s and 1980s, the auditorium became a staple on the Strip for many rock and roll acts.[6]
In September 1977, Frank Zappa's road manager was found dead of self-inflicted razor-blade wounds after a performance at the venue.[6]
In November 1997, at the final performance at the venue before it closed for renovations, Motley Crue invited fans onto the stage, resulting in a flying chairs and signs ripped from walls. Guitarist Mick Mars was knocked out in the melee. Tommy Lee invited women to flash a video camera.[6][7]
In 1998, the original Aladdin Hotel was imploded. During the renovation, the center's original structure was removed, incorporating the venue into the casino area of the hotel. In 2000, the venue reopened with a performance by Enrique Iglesias, with a capacity decrease to 7,000.[8][9][10]
In 2004, spectators walked out of a Linda Ronstadt concert and some defaced posters of Ronstadt in the lobby after she expressed support for documentary filmmaker Michael Moore. Ronstadt was then banned from the venue.[12]
"Invincible". Instagram. May 1, 2020. Archived from the original on 2021-12-23. Retrieved 2 June 2021. We've had to make the very difficult decision of postponing my Las Vegas residency, Invincible, until 2021. I want everyone to be safe, healthy, & ready to party next year! For the latest information and to receive presale access when new dates are announced - sign up for my mailing list. Swipe up in my stories to join! I can't wait to see y'all. #invincible