Las Vegas' famed Fountains of Bellagio aren't just about high rollers and poker faces; they're now also a canvas for guest creativity. In an unprecedented move, the Bellagio recently allowed a guest to choreograph a fountain show, marking a splashy first in their 25-year history. Scott Krupa, the lucky guest, turned over 2 million MGM loyalty points to secure his place in Vegas showbiz history. "So at the beginning, I was working with the, you know, lead choreographer. And I said, well, I have this in my head. I like something like this and he punched some buttons on the computer and boom, it popped up. And I said, that's exactly what I was thinking," Krupa told KTNV.
Now, to even have the chance to orchestrate these famed jets of water, it takes more than a sprinkle of points and a dash of luck. It's a bona fide partnership between giants: Marriott International and MGM Resorts International. Krupa, who happens to be a Marriott Bonvoy Elite member from Atlanta, Georgia, saw his 2.4 million Marriott Bonvoy points turn into an exclusive behind-the-scenes dive to actually learn to manage the technological marvels that make the fountains dance. With U2's track ‘Beautiful Day’ as his backdrop, Krupa's vision is now part of the 40-strong rotation mesmerizing visitors from around the globe. The alliance between the two hospitality mavens not only brought this unique experience to life but serves up one heck of a perk for Marriott Bonvoy members, who can now earn and burn points in ways that would make even the most cynical Vegas veteran raise an eyebrow.
As part of this broader alliance, members can score points left and right, even through sports betting and online casino play. It's a move that BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt called "a monumental differentiator" for their brand. "This partnership will extend our brand to millions of potential new customers while offering our players the unique benefit of utilising its gameplay to tap into the world of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of experiences," Greenblatt explained to Gambling Insider. And you better believe this isn't where the curtain drops. With eyes firmly fixed on the upcoming Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, the partnership is revving up to potentially roll out even more exclusive experiences for its members.
Meanwhile, back at the fountain, Krupa reminisced about the process, saying that he didn't expect to get so much freedom. The experience was nothing short of liberating for him. "And I really was not expecting the amount of freedom I got to put together the choreography. I'll be honest, he really just let me run with it. And he said, whatever your vision is, we will do our best to make it come to life," he told KTNV. So if you're casually strolling the Strip and find yourself face-to-face with a choreographed extremity of liquid precision, remember you might just be witnessing a Bonvoy member's vacation dream coming true.
