Announcing: Donny and Marie in Las Vegas (through October 2012)

Marie Osmond at the Flamingo. Photo by: Susan Marg

Often referred to as “Sin City,” Las Vegas’s claim to the title of “Marriage Capital of the World” has merit, as well.  Over 110,000 marriages take place there each year, plus another 40,000 to 50,000 renewals, commitment ceremonies, and other professions of “till death do us part.”

Everyone has an opinion about such goings on.  It is either oily Elvis impersonators and kitschy decorations or glamour and glitter under the neon lights. There’s no in between, let alone happily ever after.

Marie Osmond’s wedding this past May was an exception to popular attitudes. Then again, she and her husband live in Las Vegas.

Divorced over four years ago from her second husband of twenty years, she remarried her first husband, Stephen Craig, at the Las Vegas Mormon Temple in keeping with their faith.  It was a private, family affair, kept secret from even those closest to her until three days before the event to keep the paparazzi away.  The reception was held at their home.

Afterwards, the bride and groom were pleased to pose for pictures.  She wore the original gown by costumer designer Ret Turner from her first wedding almost thirty years earlier.  Being a Nutrisystem spokesperson really paid off.  “I can’t breathe, but I’m in it,” she declared.  Craig, a former basketball player who filled out over time, went with a black rather than white tuxedo.  They both looked happy.

Marie was back at work less than a week later.  She’s been appearing with her brother Donny at the 750-seat Flamingo Showroom five days a week for thirty-six weeks a year since September 2008.

The siblings put on a variety show.  Does that sound familiar? It’s a high-energy 90-minute multi-media extravaganza that showcases their talents and charm.  She sings a little bit country; he sings some rock ‘n roll. Together they joke around and have fun.  The crowd of all ages loves it.

Now, that sounds like Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World.

© 2011 Susan Marg – All Rights Reserved