Liberace Museum

In the heart of Paradise, Nevada, lies a hidden gem that once dazzled visitors with its opulence and grandeur – the Liberace Museum. This unique attraction, dedicated to the life and legacy of the flamboyant entertainer Liberace, is a treasure trove of glitz, glamour, and history. Whether you're a fan of his music or simply fascinated by the extravagance of his lifestyle, the Liberace Museum offers an unforgettable journey into the world of one of America's most iconic performers.

The Origins of the Liberace Museum

The Liberace Museum was the brainchild of Liberace himself, who founded the Liberace Foundation for the Creative and Performing Arts in 1976. With a vision to give back to the musical community that had supported him throughout his career, Liberace endowed the foundation with his extensive collection of stage costumes, pianos, cars, and jewelry, along with $4 million in cash. The museum officially opened its doors on April 15, 1979, in a modest shopping plaza on the southwest corner of Tropicana and Spencer, which was later renamed the Liberace Plaza.

A Glimpse into Liberace's World

As you step into the Liberace Museum, you are immediately transported into a world of unparalleled luxury and showmanship. The museum was divided into several buildings, each showcasing different aspects of Liberace's life and career. The main building housed most of his pianos and automobiles, while the annex featured a recreation of Liberace's bedroom from his Palm Springs home, along with his jewelry, personal items, and iconic stage costumes designed by Michael Travis.

One of the highlights of the museum was the library, which contained Liberace's musical arrangements, archives, and a tribute to his family. Here, visitors could delve into the rich history of Liberace's career, from his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the most celebrated entertainers of his time.

The Liberace Play-A-Like Competition

In 1993, the Liberace Foundation introduced the Liberace Play-A-Like Competition to celebrate the entertainer's birthday. This annual event invited musicians to embody Liberace's joyful spirit of showmanship through their performances and costumes. The competition was later expanded in 2006 to include traditional piano performances, allowing young musicians to showcase their talents on either a traditional Steinway grand or Liberace's rhinestone-studded Baldwin grand.

A Collection of Musical Masterpieces

The Liberace Museum was home to an impressive collection of pianos, each with its own unique history. Among the 18 pianos on display were instruments that had been played by musical legends such as Frédéric Chopin, Robert Schumann, and George Gershwin. One of the most striking pieces in the collection was the rhinestone-decorated Baldwin grand that Liberace debuted at his sold-out Radio City Music Hall concerts in 1986.

Philanthropy and Legacy

All proceeds from the museum benefited the Liberace Foundation, which provided over 2,700 scholarships to college and graduate students, totaling more than $6 million. Liberace's commitment to supporting young musicians ensured that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations of performers.

The Museum's Closure and Legacy

Despite its initial success, the Liberace Museum faced financial challenges in the early 2000s, leading to its closure on October 17, 2010. However, the Liberace Foundation continued to preserve and exhibit parts of the collection through traveling shows and special exhibitions. In 2013, a portion of Liberace's collection was displayed at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in an exhibition titled Too Much of a Good Thing is Wonderful: Liberace and the Art of Costume.

Present-Day Exhibitions

Today, the Liberace Foundation manages the collection, which is housed in various locations around Las Vegas. The primary collection of Liberace's outfits is displayed at Thriller Villa, the former Las Vegas home of Michael Jackson. Additionally, the Liberace Garage, which opened in 2016, features all eight of Liberace's vehicles, along with the rhinestone-encrusted Radio City Baldwin piano and several stage costumes.

Experience the Glamour

While the original Liberace Museum may no longer be open, the spirit of Liberace lives on through the various exhibitions and events organized by the Liberace Foundation. Whether you're visiting Thriller Villa or the Liberace Garage, you'll be captivated by the sheer extravagance and artistry that defined Liberace's career. So, if you find yourself in Las Vegas, don't miss the opportunity to step into the world of one of America's most beloved entertainers and experience the magic of the Liberace Museum Collection.