Las Vegas, known for its vibrant entertainment scene, faced an unprecedented challenge during the depths of the pandemic as its bustling main boulevard came to a grinding halt. This pause shed light on the unconventional traits of Sin City, revealing the stark reality that even the extravagant resorts of this world-renowned entertainment mecca had to be boarded up with plywood due to their doors lacking locks.
Mark Shunock, a prominent figure in Vegas as a host, philanthropist, and actor, reflects on this stark moment, highlighting how the city’s grand establishments, usually teeming with visitors, were eerily empty. The usual hospitality and warmth extended to guests on The Strip were absent, emphasizing the neglect faced by the locals who form an integral part of the city’s fabric.
In response to this overlooked segment of the community, Shunock embarked on a transformative initiative by spearheading The Space 2.0. This ambitious project, set to become a $50 million, five-story, 80,000-square-foot community center near The Cosmopolitan, aims to provide crucial support to entertainment professionals, hospitality workers, and first responders who tirelessly serve the tourist town. Additionally, The Space 2.0 seeks to inspire and educate the future stars of The Strip, nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community among industry professionals.
The endeavor has already garnered significant support, with Annette Bening chairing the Entertainment Community Fund, which will have its first Vegas outpost within The Space 2.0. The fund has already raised over $2 million, with contributions from notable figures like UFC, Brad Garrett, and Nick Carter, who emphasize the pivotal role such a center could have played in their own journeys within the entertainment industry.
Furthermore, the pandemic served as a catalyst for this initiative, as Shunock adapted his charitable event, Mondays Dark, into a virtual platform to support local organizations. The overwhelming response from the community underscored the need for essential support services in Vegas, mirroring the infrastructure available in entertainment hubs like Los Angeles and New York.
The Space 2.0 intends to address this gap by offering educational programs, social services, financial aid, and hosting nonprofits focused on mental health support. In a city known for its nonstop entertainment and demanding hospitality industry, the center aims to provide a much-needed refuge for those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make Vegas the entertainment capital it is today.
As Vegas continues to evolve with a burgeoning residency and theater scene, the establishment of The Space 2.0 aligns with the city’s growing entertainment landscape. Notable personalities like Mark Wahlberg, Celine Dion, and Steve Aoki have made Vegas their home, further emphasizing the city’s appeal as an entertainment destination.
The Space 2.0 not only envisions empowering the workforce in Vegas but also enhancing arts education through career development initiatives and afterschool programs. Collaborations with industry icons like Shania Twain and Nick Carter are set to inspire and mentor future generations of entertainers, creating a nurturing environment for aspiring talent.
Ultimately, Shunock’s vision for The Space 2.0 is to strengthen Vegas by supporting its diverse community of entertainers and industry professionals. With a scheduled groundbreaking in 2026 and an opening in 2028, this transformative project symbolizes a new chapter in Vegas’s entertainment landscape, providing vital support and resources for those who bring stories to life on The Strip.