Joey Diaz filming special in Vegas
Comedian Joey “Coco” Diaz will be the next comedian to film a special at the locals-friendly South Point hotel in its $3 million showroom seating 400 at booths and tables.
Diaz plans to film Sept. 18-19, and not just for a special but for a sizzle reel for other TV or video potential.
Louie Anderson has been spotted filming in the showroom this week, although it’s unclear what he’s shooting.
A few years ago, comics Ralphie May and John Caparulo filmed at South Point. Afterward, the hotel’s entertainment director Michael Libonati says he, owner Michael Gaughan and others on property decided to shell out investment money to upgrade the room, to lower comics’ expenses.
So South Point installed new sight and sound tech, dropping comedians’ out-of-pocket film costs down to $10,000, from the previous $50,000 or $70,000 it would take to fly in a two-day camera crew, special staffing and equipment.
“We have seven to 10 HD cameras. We’re like a full recording studio room, where we can do anything in here,” Libonati said. “We want to help the comedians. We want to help the acts.”
The showroom has also been the site of a taping by comic Christopher Titus, and live and film work for the national pageants, NFR rodeo awards, and music videos.
Contact Doug Elfman at delfman@reviewjournal.com. He blogs at reviewjournal.com/elfman. Find him on Twitter: @VegasAnonymous