LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – After almost 67 years, the Tropicana is nearing the end of its era on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel to close its doors for good on April 2, making way for the new A’s stadium.
“You’ve got a mix of feelings. You’ve got people that have been here over 50 years, and they’ve spent their life here,” said Paul Stefani, master cook at Robert Irvine’s Public House.
Now, longtime employees are looking back at the Tropicana’s iconic years in hospitality and show business.
The Purple Rain Prince Tribute Show spent seven years at the Tropicana, which is the longest residency stay in the show’s history.
“It was really cool to perform at the Tropicana nightly, lots of history there in that room, big shows,” said Purple Reign performer Jason Tenner. “It was a good venue and a good move for us.”
While most of the entertainment shows like Purple Reign and Michael Jackson Live have already moved to other venues, many hotel staff remain on the property during its final week, now reflecting on decades of memories on the iconic corner.
“I wanted to work at a hotel that basically had some history to it,” said Stefani. “When I got here, I could sense that there was a family atmosphere here, and the people were really friendly, the people wanted to be a part of something. So I felt that right away and ended up staying here ten years.”
Over the years, Stefani has worked at several restaurants at the Tropicana, and he says he’s proud to have been part of the property’s rich history.
“You hear the stories from some of the casino floor workers who’ve been here through thick and thin,” he said.
Stefani said the culinary union and the Tropicana have been supportive, holding job fairs and helping staff with the severance or relocation processes.
And although he’s not sure what’s next for him, he says a game at the new A’s stadium is definitely in his future. “Oh, no doubt! And you know, I’ll know approximately where I’m sitting to where the hotel was, where the parking lot was. That part’s going to be fun,” said Stefani.
Copyright 2024 KVVU. All rights reserved.
