Casinos have long been known for their slot machines and roulette tables. They are also popular locations for movies like Ocean’s 11.

However, casinos are also a one-stop location for a wide variety of entertainment options. Out-of-town casino guests and local residents find that casinos attract famous-name entertainment that are usually found only in large cities or unique shows found nowhere else.

Casinos host short-term performances, such as pop music groups in the midst of a tour, and permanent or extended run shows. To accommodate the permanent shows, a new trend for larger casinos is to build multi-million dollar theaters that are designed specifically for a single show.

Lounge acts like Wayne Newton and Engleberg Humperdink remain popular. Joining those traditional lounge acts are nostalgia performers who are trying to rebuild a career. David Cassidy, for example, has rediscovered stardom thanks to his energetic on-stage presence in a Las Vegas production and a female fan base who have loved him ever since his Keith Partridge days.

Some entertainment is synonymous with casinos. Acts like Penn & Teller, Cirque du Soleil, and David Copperfield have found fame on television or as touring performers, but they are often most closely associated with their casino performances.

To reach out to a new and larger audience base, casinos are looking to expand to other entertainment options. Although cabaret shows will remain a staple as casino entertainment, Broadway shows are setting up for extended stays in casinos around the country. Family-oriented entertainment is also becoming more popular as some towns that are home to casinos are eager to be known as family vacation destinations. Shows that were once risqué have toned down their sex appeal so parents can bring their children.

Despite the attempts to provide new entertainment, casinos will always stick to their “bread and butter” shows. Artists like Celine Dion and Elton John are among a growing number of performers who are signing long-term contracts with a casino, eschewing a grueling tour. Comedians and magicians find friendly audiences in casino theaters. Friday nights continue to attract sports fans who enjoy boxing. And as long as there are casinos, there will always be show girls.