QLife had the amazing opportunity to interview the incredibly talented Ricky Martin ahead of his new extended residency in Las Vegas. A member of Menudo as a teenager, Ricky is now known for such solo pop hits as “Livin’ La Vida Loca” and “She Bangs.”
One of the most intriguing and impactful entertainers of all time, multiple GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Ricky Martin will headline the new state-of-the-art Park Theater at Monte Carlo from April through September, as well as performances at MGM’s new National Harbor in May.
After performing in all seven continents over the last three years around the globe, Martin is well-known for his high-energy and thrilling performances that have captivated millions of people throughout the world. Martin’s one-of-a-kind show, promises to thrill audiences with non-stop entertainment. Martin’s compelling repertoire includes his greatest and current hits and multiple costume changes, making it one of the most exciting events to come to Vegas, which will definitely leave you wanting more.
QLife: Welcome to Las Vegas! Are you as excited as we are to have you here?
Ricky: Of course, I’m so excited. The Las Vegas audience has always been one of my favorites because people come from all over the world. It’s been what we have talked about for years and I’m very happy to be able to do it.
QLife: How is having an extended engagement going to impact your life compared to what you have done in the past?
Ricky: Well, I get to stay in one spot and it will be easier for us commuting from Los Angeles.
QLife: How has your life changed since becoming a father?
Ricky: My life has completely changed. Every decision I make now is about my boys whereas before it was about me. My kids are my priority and I am a father first and foremost.
QLife: Now that you have have been publicly out for a while, how do you look at your sexuality and how have your fans responded?
Ricky: Sexuality is how we feel about ourselves and I try to love myself the best I can so I can feel free to love. My fans are so loyal and I think they understand me sometimes more than I understand myself at times. It’s been a beautiful experience.
QLife: What can we expect from this show? Give us the inside scoop that our readers need to know.
Ricky: The cool thing about what’s going to happen in Vegas is that I’m bringing my culture with me. It’s a lot of energy…one hour and thirty minutes of full on adrenaline!! It’s an international show for an international crowd. We are going to go back down memory lane with all my hits, get ready!
QLife: What advice would you give to your younger self? What advice would you give to your older self?
Ricky: Never stop dreaming. Have fun and be present. It is extremely important to stay true to yourself and live with the conviction that each of us is destined to do something extraordinary. Be willing to fight for your beliefs and defend your identity. I am blessed that good people surround me. To have a strong family and team that stand behind me and keep me grounded. Always be kind, and surround yourself with good people.
QLife: When you aren’t performing, what are your hobbies?
Ricky: I love art so I enjoy going to museums, hanging out with my friends, going to the movies and being with my kids, among other things.
QLife: What is your creative process like for developing a show like this?
Ricky: The first thing I did was hire my creative director Jamie King and from there, we put together all the ideas together and came up with a great concept created specifically for Vegas. I’m going to do things that I have never done before…I just can’t wait.
QLife: In your experience, are you happy that you decided to come out? Did that impact your business (good or bad)?
Ricky: All I can say is that if I could do it all over again, I would. That’s how incredibly amazing it felt. Did it impact my business? Yes, and I can surely say it has been a positive one. Absolutely no regrets.
QLife: Anything that you want to experience while you are in Las Vegas?
Ricky: Yes of course! Being there will allow me to take some time to experience what the city has to offer not only for myself but also for my kids and family.
QLife: After your first month in Las Vegas you’re off to MGM National Harbor the first weekend in May. What can you tell us about the new theater there?
Ricky: It’s an intimate setting while having 3,000+ seats and state of the art sound. There is nothing like it at all in that area and I’m honored to be a part of the group of artists to perform there.
QLife: If you can tell your audience one thing, what would it be?
Ricky: To let go of all their problems or worries and to prepare themselves to have an amazing time with me. I’ll see you all in Vegas!
Ricky returned to Las Vegas for his second run of shows June 23-July 2. We were able to have a follow-up interview just before his first show.
