The topless-showgirls-with-big-headdresses variety of variety show has been a Vegas institution for decades.

Now, with the "Jubilee!" Walking Tour, you can finally get up close and personal with the headpieces. I know, that may not have been how you were hoping that sentence was going to end, but it's still a good thing.

"Jubilee!" has been playing at Bally's since 1981. It actually would have been playing earlier if it hadn't been for the devastating 1980 fire at the hotel, then named the MGM Grand. The production was in rehearsals when the fire struck. Although the theater made it through uncharred, the smoke and water damage to the structure and the intricate costumes was horrific.

This is just one of the interesting tidbits of history and "How do they do that?" infotainment found on the backstage tour of the theater.

An actual showgirl or showguy from the production leads participants on a fun and informative journey across and under the stage, into the dressing rooms, through the costume shop, and above the seats. You learn how they move all of the giant sets into place and what happens if one of them doesn't show up on time.

They'll let you examine up close the actual feathered headdresses and sequined costumes used in the show and explain how they are designed, tested and made. You'll get an insider's glimpse into the life of a showgirl, from the glamour to the incredibly hard work and lack of job security (every cast member has to reaudition every six months, no matter how long he or she has been with the show).

It's a fascinating hour-plus that will give you a newfound respect for how hard these people work to keep the Las Vegas visitor entertained.

One caveat: There are a lot of very steep stairs to climb as you go up into the lighting and sound booth and down to the dressing rooms and set-storage areas, so if you are at all physically challenged this may not be the best idea for you.

Vegas4Visitors Grade: A

"Jubilee!" Walking Tour
Bally's Las Vegas
3645 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
(800) 7-BALLYS
Tour times: 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays
Ticket price: $15, or $10 with the purchase of a show ticket

The Full Story

Mini-Reviews: One Revamped Buffet Stands Out
Silverton's Update Makes It Worth Stopping For
Backstage Tour Shows Life Of 'Jubilee!' Showgirl
Vegas Q&A: Which Players' Club Is Best

In Next Week's Column

Next week: The latest from Las Vegas.

Plus, don't forget to send your questions about Las Vegas. I've got room for more, so send them in today!

Click here to go to the main page of Vegas4Visitors.com and see all of the fantastic resources Vegas4Visitors has to offer you when planning your next trip to Las Vegas.