Dian Diaz branching out with new show

She and her backup dancers change their costumes about 17 times over a two-hour time span. And Diaz, always a vocalist, has changed her role and taken on the title of singer-dancer.

The biggest change of all, though, is undoubtedly the venue. Diaz, with her sultry, R&B style, has been a one-lounge woman for the past 12 years, performing exclusively in Bellagio’s Fontana bar since the hotel opened. She still performs there but, taking a cue from Las Vegas’ ever-changing lounge scene, Diaz decided to branch out with a new show for the suburban crowd.

“A lot of people who have seen the show before are going to be surprised now,” Diaz says, citing the choreography and costumes as new, surprising elements.

Diaz is backed up by two dancers/singers, a full rhythm section and a male vocalist.

She covers everything from classic R&B songs to current pop singers, including Aretha Franklin, Journey, Bon Jovi, Beyonce and Ke$ha.

The new show was envisioned as a more elaborate production than the traditional lounge show. Diaz is even sewing most of the costumes herself.

“I thought that would be the way to help take the lounge environment to a new level and still make it affordable,” she says. “You still want to have a free show but give the audience so much more. It’s a lot of work … but it’s been a lot of fun.”

Diaz plays two shows at Rocks Lounge every Monday, 9 to 10 p.m. and 10:30 to 11:30 p.m. For more information about Diaz, visit her website, diandiaz.com.

— By Sonya Padgett