LAS VEGAS — For years, the Treasure Island hotel-casino — with its pyrotechnic pirate show and menacing marquee — has carried the reputation as a Disney-esque destination for families.
Never mind it happens to be smack in the middle of Sin City and the casino specializes in adult activities, where gambling and alcohol abound.
"We never catered to kids," Treasure Island President Scott Sibella said recently. "We are here to serve adults. But you just can't go out and tell people they can't bring their kids."
Now, as Las Vegas hotels have added swinging adult clubs and pushed the envelope with risque revues, the resort is trying to rid itself of its PG image.
Treasure Island is recasting itself as "TI" and adding some spice to the pirate extravaganza that attracts 4.5 million people annually. The new $2 million version will include the "Sirens of TI," sexy females who will duel renegade pirates in what the casino calls a "sensual modern interpretation" of the old "Battle of Buccaneer Bay."
Sibella described the old show as "a little tired," and one in need of a swashbuckling facelift. It's been around since the 3,000-room Treasure Island opened in 1993.
Along with the revamped show, set to open in October, Treasure Island is removing its skull-and-bones marquee on the Strip and replacing it with a stylish, neon "TI" logo. But the words "Treasure Island" that adorn the top of the property's facade will stay.
On the Net: Treasure Island Web site: www.treasureisland.com