Hitting the Stage: How Abby Fell in Love with Performing

Abby’s passion for performing started early. Though she began dancing at the age of two, it wasn’t just the technique that drew her in—it was the thrill of performing in front of an audience.

“I didn’t thrive in class. I thrived on stage. I loved recitals, competitions, anything where I could show off what I had learned.”

While many dancers gravitate toward New York or Los Angeles, Abby was captivated by Las Vegas from the moment she visited for a dance competition at age 13. The lights, energy, and spectacle of Vegas shows left a lasting impression—and set her path in motion.

Why Abby Chose Las Vegas Over New York or LA

While many aspiring performers dream of Broadway or Hollywood, Abby set her sights on Vegas. The city offered something unique: a space for dancers to fully express themselves without being boxed into perfectionism or strict choreography.

“Vegas gives you more freedom to be yourself on stage. In Fantasy, we’re not trying to look like the person next to us. We’re meant to stand out.”

Unlike cities known for rigorous dance companies or ballet troupes, Las Vegas gave Abby room to develop as both a technician and a performer—on her own terms.

Life in Fantasy: Behind the Curtain of a Vegas Icon

Fantasy at Luxor has been running for over 25 years, and Abby has been with the show for nearly a decade. She originally auditioned as a swing—a part-time cast member trained to fill in for full-time performers. Her journey from go-go dancer at Hyde nightclub to full-time cast member in one of Vegas’ most recognized shows wasn’t easy, but it was filled with lessons, personal growth, and some hilarious on-stage mishaps (like forgetting her chiffon prop and performing anyway).

The show itself is topless—something Abby addresses openly.

“It’s not about being provocative. It’s about being confident, artistic, and part of a tradition that celebrates the female form through dance.”

What makes Fantasy unique, Abby explains, is its individuality. Dancers are introduced by name, given space to shine, and celebrated for their differences. There’s no cookie-cutter mold here.

Dancing Full-Time in Las Vegas: The Reality

So what does a full-time Vegas performer’s schedule look like?

Abby danced up to six nights a week, often performing in double shows. During peak seasons, performers are booked seven days straight—with very little time to rest. At one point, she juggled dancing at Fantasy, working a day job at a Las Vegas pool, and dancing in production gigs on the side.

“I was a workhorse, but it caught up with me. I hit burnout hard. That’s when I realized I needed to slow down and protect my energy.”

Now in nursing school, Abby has scaled back to four nights a week. Her story is a reminder that passion and discipline must be balanced with self-care—especially in a city that never sleeps.

The Future of Fantasy and Staying Inspired

Abby credits the show’s longevity to its producer, Anita Mann—an industry legend who danced with Elvis and continues to keep the production fresh by collaborating with top choreographers like Mandy Moore and NappyTabs. The show is constantly evolving while honoring classic elements its audience loves.

“We’re diverse. We’re modern. And we’re rooted in real talent. That’s what keeps people coming back.”

Abby’s journey is far from over. With nursing school in full swing and her love for performing still alive, she continues to embody the spirit of a true Vegas mover and shaker: bold, resilient, and inspiring.