Las Vegas Weekly

September 26, 2009 · 8:05 AM

Photo Gallery: Andre Agassi serves ace of an evening at the Wynn

By Robin Leach

Andre Agassi, Romero Britto and Larry Ruvo.

Photo: Denise Truscello/WireImage

Even in advance of tonight’s star-studded 14th Annual Grand Slam gala, tennis champion Andre Agassi had one busy Friday. It started yesterday when he gave a tour of his College Preparatory Academy and ended with a VIP dinner at the Wynn, where our hometown hero persuaded good friend and Mirage headliner ventriloquist Terry Fator to entertain the corporate sponsors of tonight’s fundraiser.

In between, Andre helped artist Romero Britto unveil his newest masterpiece, which will be auctioned off at tonight’s dinner in the Wynn. Leading lens lady Denise Truscello was on hand for Andre’s jam-packed day, and contributing photographer Scott Harrison joined in for the art ceremony.

Yesterday, my pal musical director David Foster had his last-minute rehearsals with Tim McGraw, Daughtry and Brian McKnight, who will all sing at tonight's glittering concert. Dane Cook also is scheduled to perform. I chatted with Chris Daughtry in the hallway outside the ballroom.

He told me: “It’s all gone very well. This is a huge undertaking, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it. I’ve always looked up to Andre, not only as a sports hero but also for everything he does for the children to ensure that they receive the best education possible.

“It’s great to be back in Vegas. I have many happy memories of our visits here. It’s always a little nerve-wracking when you are performing with such a group of superstars like this who’ve never worked together before, but I know now it will be a super and smooth show."

Early this morning, it was officially confirmed that Macy Gray and Lionel Richie also will perform tonight. I was at Lavo in the Palazzo last night when Macy passed by, but it was impossible in the throng of stars, including Jeremy Piven of Entourage and radio personality Howard Stern’s wife Beth Ostrosky, to chat to her.

I can tell you that Macy looked none the wear from being the first female ousted from ABC’s Season 9 of Dancing With the Stars on Wednesday. She was looking fabulous, all smiles and enjoying all the Lavo Italian taste treats.

Andre ended his long day last night dropping by to visit longtime pal and supporter Emeril Lagasse at the opening of his sports bar and grill Stadium in the Palazzo. Tonight, another celebrity chef, Michael Mina, will join Emeril for Grand Slam. Also set to appear tonight will be Andre’s wife, tennis champion Steffi Graff, athletes Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Tony Hawk, plus other surprise celebrity guests.

Vegas DeLuxe will have full photo coverage on Monday from the red carpet festivities and the star-studded show.

Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than 50 years and has spent the past decade giving readers the inside scoop on Las Vegas, the world’s premier platinum playground.

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