Expert: Tom - 7/22/2004

Question
I have heard that  the Tresure Island Casino does not have the Pirate Show on the strip anymore. If this is true could you tell me why they discontinued it.
Thank You much
Van

Answer
Van,

You are correct. The pirate battle at Treasure Island has been discontinued and the property was given an image overhaul.

When Treasure Island was created, it was built on a "Pirates of the Caribbean" theme, and became popular with kids and families.

But as competition in Vegas heated up in the late 90's and early 2000's (with the opening of Mandalay Bay, Paris, Venetian, Palms, etc.) Treasure Island realized that their main customer - kids and families - do not spend much money in the casino.

So they revamped their image and are now calling themselves "T.I." They are trying to attract a 25-40 year old audience by being hip and sexy. They have replaced the pirates show with a new production called "Sirens of T.I." which is about the mythological seductresses of the sea.

From what I've heard, people aren't liking the new theming as much, but I can completely understand, from a business perspective, why they wanted to get away from their "Disneyland" image. It isn't as profitable.

Hope this helps!

Tom