The Rat Pack
The Rat Pack was a group of entertainers who became synonymous with the glamour and excitement of Las Vegas in the 1950s and 1960s. The core members included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. They were known for their camaraderie, on-stage chemistry, and off-stage antics.
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The Sands became the unofficial home of the Rat Pack. Their performances in the Copa Room were legendary, featuring a mix of music, comedy, and improvisation. Their shows were loose, and spontaneous. They would often interrupt each other's acts, engage in playful banter, and include the audience in their antics. The Rat Pack's performances helped solidify Las Vegas as a major entertainment destination. Their shows attracted celebrities, high rollers, and everyday fans, contributing to the city's glamorous reputation.
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Sammy Davis Jr. faced significant racial discrimination, but his inclusion in the Rat Pack helped challenge segregation policies in Las Vegas. They refused to perform in venues that wouldn't allow Davis to stay or eat there.

The Rat Pack's involvement in the film "Ocean's 11" is one of the most iconic elements of their legacy, blending their off-stage camaraderie with a heist movie set against the backdrop of Las Vegas.
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The film follows a group of World War II veterans who plan and execute a daring heist to rob five Las Vegas casinos (Sahara, Riviera, Desert Inn, Sands, and Flamingo) in one night. The leader of the group, Danny Ocean (played by Frank Sinatra), orchestrates the elaborate plan.
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Much of the film was shot on location in Las Vegas, particularly at the Sands Hotel and Casino, which was the Rat Pack's home base for their live performances. The use of actual casino locations added authenticity and glamour to the film.


