So tonight was the premier of the new musical drama series Viva Laughlin. Around here every television was tuned in and everyone who couldn’t watch had it TiVo’d. We all had the wonderful privilege of having to go about everyday life while parts of the show were being filmed in our less than booming town last March. One of the great things about the filming and hopefully outcome of the show is that business improved at most of the casinos. Unfortunately, I’m not sure how visitors will react when they see the “real” Laughlin compared to the show.

Laughlin was founded by Don Laughlin, a Minnesota native. He currently owns and operates the Riverside Casino which is the first casino as you arrive in Laughlin. Similar to the character of Nicky Fontana(Hugh Jackman), Don Laughlin is the competition. Every casino tries to better his and it is a bitter struggle as most of the market share goes to the Riverside. The casinos on the “strip” constantly change hands and most are now owned by large casino or hotel corporations. In “Viva”, Ripley Holden(Lloyd Owen) is building a new casino, something that has not been done in the last ten years in Laughlin. Some renovations are in progress at several casinos and the former Ramada Express recently underwent a name change which visitors may view as a similarity to the show. The show however, had few scenes that were shot in Laughlin. First time visitors would probably not be able to identify much, with the exception of the opening credits shot from the river. Another thing that is definitely not like the show is the glitz and glamor. Not many people walk around in flashy suits, the cocktail servers are dressed fairly modestly, and there are no showgirls. The nicest dressed you see in Laughlin is in the higher priced steakhouses and the occasional wedding parties. It will be interesting to see future similarities and differences throughout the season. Hopefully future episodes of the show will incorporate other aspects of life on the river.

Though there are differences between the two destinations, there looks to be success for both. The story for Viva Laughlin is engaging and the publicity will help Laughlin attract visitors.