Liberace's Glittering Legacy: Preserving the Showman's Extravagant Collection

In an unassuming industrial plaza on Dean Martin Drive, where the buildings are clad in beige corrugated metal and the businesses cater to auto repair and tattoos, lies a remarkable treasure trove – the collection of Liberace, one of the most flamboyant and iconic entertainers in the history of Las Vegas. This hidden gem, known as the Liberace Garage, is part of the Hollywood Cars Museum and offers a glimpse into the lavish world of the legendary pianist.

Rediscovering the Glitz and Glamour of Liberace's Legacy

Liberace's Enduring Influence on Las Vegas

Liberace, born Wladziu Valentino Liberace in 1919, was a true showman who captivated audiences with his elaborate costumes, extravagant cars, and virtuosic piano performances in Las Vegas. His impact on the city's entertainment landscape is undeniable, as he set the standard for the larger-than-life spectacle that has become synonymous with the Las Vegas Strip. "He was the original showman on the Las Vegas strip," says Jonathan Warren, the current chair of the Liberace Foundation, "and he's the reason the place looks like it does."Liberace's legacy extends far beyond his own performances, as he established a foundation in his name in 1976 and bequeathed his extensive collection of costumes, cars, and art to the organization. This collection, which spans the 1920s to the present day, is now a testament to the entertainer's enduring influence and the preservation of his unique brand of showmanship.

The Liberace Garage: A Glimpse into the Entertainer's Extravagant World

The Liberace Garage, located at the back of the Hollywood Cars Museum, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the entertainer's lavish world. Here, they can see the very cars Liberace used to make his grand entrances at the Las Vegas Hilton in the 1970s, when he was reportedly earning 0,000 per week. Some of these vehicles are adorned with mirror tiles or covered in 84,000 Austrian crystals, showcasing Liberace's penchant for the extravagant.Beyond the cars, the garage also houses an impressive collection of Liberace's costumes, including the glitzy pink and red tuxedos worn by Michael Douglas in the 2013 film "Behind the Candelabra." These opulent garments serve as a testament to Liberace's flamboyant style and his commitment to creating a truly unforgettable performance experience.

Preserving Liberace's Legacy: Challenges and Triumphs

The journey to preserve Liberace's legacy has not been without its challenges. In 2010, the Liberace Museum, which had previously been located in a shopping center on Tropicana Avenue, closed its doors due to what the Las Vegas Review-Journal described as "financial ruin." This setback, however, did not deter the Liberace Foundation from continuing its mission to safeguard the entertainer's collection and intellectual property.Under the leadership of Jonathan Warren, the foundation has worked tirelessly to revitalize Liberace's legacy. While the foundation has limited cash resources, it has managed to keep the collection on display, leveraging donated space and ticket sales to sustain its operations. Additionally, the foundation owns the rights to Liberace's image and assets, allowing it to generate revenue whenever these are used.The foundation's efforts have paid off, as Liberace's popularity has seen a resurgence, particularly among millennials, thanks to the 2013 film "Behind the Candelabra." The foundation is now exploring new opportunities, including discussions for a documentary, film, and scripted series, to further amplify Liberace's enduring influence and captivate new generations of fans.

Liberace's Global Reach and Enduring Appeal

Liberace's appeal extends far beyond the borders of the United States, with his largest fan base residing in the United Kingdom. During the 1960s, Liberace hosted a television show that gained him a devoted following among baby boomers and Generation X in the UK. This international recognition underscores the universal appeal of Liberace's unique brand of showmanship and his ability to transcend cultural boundaries.Today, the Liberace Foundation's collection, which spans 12,000 to 14,000 cubic feet when crated, is considered one of the largest show business collections in the world. Warren, the foundation's chair, likens the scale of the collection to "the ground floor of the Smithsonian," highlighting the sheer magnitude and significance of Liberace's legacy.As the Liberace Foundation continues to navigate the challenges of preserving and showcasing this extraordinary collection, it remains steadfast in its mission to honor the entertainer's enduring impact on the world of entertainment and the city of Las Vegas. Through the Liberace Garage and other initiatives, the foundation ensures that Liberace's glittering legacy will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for generations to come.