Lionel Richie’s ‘Dancing on the Sand’ at Atlantis Resort, Where Music Meets Paradise.

November 30th to December 3rd, 2023

Lionel Richie’s first night of “Dancing on the Sand” unfolded in an intimate setting, creating a magical atmosphere where artists not only showcased their musical talents but also shared personal stories between songs, offering the audience a deeper connection to the performances. The evening began with Jake Wesley Rogers, whose charismatic and chatty demeanor charmed the crowd. Rogers’ humor and anecdotes while introducing the meanings of his songs added a delightful layer to his performance. As parents watched proudly from the audience, Rogers delivered an ode to his hometown of Springfield, Missouri, with a touch of “Hot Gospel.” Expressing gratitude for his first-time experience in the Bahamas, he performed heartfelt tracks like “God Bless” and concluded with the captivating “Pluto,” even venturing into the crowd during the final song.

Jake Wesley Rogers performs at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

Vanessa Carlton took the stage with a piano in tow, opening with the enchanting “Willow.” She wove a poignant narrative with “House of 7 Swords,” sharing the story of her grandfather, with a painting featured in the backdrop of the stage. She shared the meanings behind her numerous hits and introduced some new tracks she wrote during the pandemic. Vanessa concluded her set with the timeless hit “1000 Miles,” leaving the audience immersed in her musical prowess.

Vanessa Carlton performs at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

Nile Rodgers & CHIC, a legendary force in the music industry, took the spotlight next, opening with the iconic “Le Freak.” Rodgers, known for writing and producing number one hits for numerous artists, presented a medley of these chart-toppers. Engaging with the audience, he invited fans to sing the choruses of songs he had collaborated on with other artists, creating an interactive and inclusive atmosphere. The setlist featured classics like “I’m Coming Out,” “We Are Family,” “Like a Virgin,” and “Material Girl.” Throughout the performance, Rodgers shared stories about the achievements and interesting facts behind the creation of these timeless songs. The night concluded with the infectious energy of “Good Times”/”Rapper’s Delight,” leaving the audience in awe of the musical journey that unfolded under the starlit Bahamian sky.

Nile Rogers & CHIC perform at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

The second night of Lionel Richie’s “Dancing on the Sand” brought a diverse lineup of artists and a mesmerizing performance by the music legend himself. Megan Moroney took the stage with a soulful rendition of “Lucky,” setting the tone for a night filled with emotional tunes. Her performance was marked by heartfelt storytelling, with tracks delving into themes of love, heartbreak, and even a humorous take on drunk dialing an ex-boyfriend.  “Sleep on my Side” and “Traitor Joe” showcased Maroney’s ability to blend personal narratives with captivating melodies. Megan concluded her set with “Tennessee Orange,” her biggest hit, leaving the audience enthralled by her emotive and engaging performance.

Megan Moroney performs at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

Sheryl Crow, an icon in her own right, opened her set with the spirited “A Change Will Do You Good.” The crowd was treated to classics like “Can’t Cry Anymore” and the ever popular “All I Wanna Do.” “Real Gone,” the most streamed song from the movie “Cars,” added a cinematic touch to the evening. Sheryl Crow’s performance soared to new heights with crowd favorites like “Soak Up the Sun” and concluded on a high note with “Everyday is a Winding Road.”

Sheryl Crow performs at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

The anticipation for Lionel Richie‘s performance reached its peak as the music legend took the stage. The show began with a captivating video intro, tracing the timeline of his illustrious career. Lionel kicked off his set with the timeless classic “Hello,” immediately engaging the audience. The energy surged with the high tempo “Running with the Night,” setting the stage for an unforgettable night.

Lionel Richie’s performs during Dancing on the Sand concert at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

Lionel Richie’s interactions with fans between songs added a personal touch to the performance. Amazed by the diversity of his fans’ origins, he engaged in light-hearted banter and even encountered a fan with a rubber chicken, leading to a playful moment. The setlist seamlessly blended his solo hits with Commodore’s classics, including the soulful rendition of “Easy.” The infectious energy of “Dancing on the Ceiling” prompted enthusiastic fan interactions, with Lionel joking about the fans being too wild for his security.

As the night progressed, Lionel Richie showcased the depth of his catalog, including the iconic “We Are the World.” The grand finale arrived with the timeless anthem “All Night Long,” leaving the audience wowed in a musical journey that spanned decades. Lionel Richie’s performance not only celebrated his remarkable career but also created a one-of-a-kind experience, uniting fans from around the world in a night of music, joy, and shared memories that will last a lifetime.

Pool Parties and Welcoming Events

The weekend dedicated to Lionel Richie’s festivities unfolded as a spectacular series of events, creating an immersive experience that transcended the typical concert atmosphere. Thursday’s Sunset Serenade Kick Off Party at the Royal Deck set the tone for the weekend, welcoming guests from around the world with open bars and the rhythmic beats of a talented DJ. This eloquent cocktail party not only marked the beginning of the weekend but also became a canvas for the creation of new friendships and the forging of memories destined to endure a lifetime.

Lionel Richie’s Dancing on the Sand. ©South Florida Insider

Friday afternoon was immersed in the glamour of the Hollywood Affair Pool Party at the Colonnade Bath Pools. The private pool soiree, featuring a DJ spinning smooth jams, provided the perfect backdrop for guests to bask in the warmth of the sun. Attendees mingled with fellow fans, setting the stage for the exhilarating nights ahead.

As the sun set on Friday evening, an air of exclusivity enveloped the Atlantis Theatre for an intimate Q&A session with the legendary Lionel Richie. Select fans had the rare opportunity to pose questions to the icon, delving deep into his illustrious career. Lionel’s candid and emotional responses offered profound insights, transforming the evening into a truly unique and personal experience for the devoted audience.

Saturday afternoon unfolded into a nostalgic journey with the Rewind Revue Party at the Colonnade Bath Pools. The pool party, featuring music from the vibrant 80s era, added an extra layer of excitement with a lively lip-syncing contest. Guests, adorned in their best 80s-inspired outfits, not only immersed themselves in the tunes of the past but also set the stage for the main event later in the evening.

Throughout the weekend, two exclusive meet-and-greet events provided fans with the rare chance to meet Lionel Richie in person. The intimate gatherings allowed attendees to shake hands, share a brief chat, and capture the moment with a photograph taken by a Vibee photographer. Lionel’s warmth and receptiveness during these interactions elevated the entire weekend, making it an unforgettable opportunity for fans to connect with the living legend on a personal level.

Lionel Richie’s Dancing on the Sand went beyond the realms of a typical concert experience. It became a celebration of music, camaraderie, and shared passion, leaving attendees with not only the joy of witnessing a musical icon in action but also a treasure trove of memories, connections, and stories to cherish for years to come.

Atlantis Resort: Beyond Expectations

Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is a comprehensive destination that caters to diverse interests. Beyond the culinary delights, the resort offers an extensive range of amenities, from shopping and entertainment to a casino, aquariums, and breathtaking scenery. The inclusion of a fitness center, spa, and golf facilities ensures a well-rounded experience for guests with varying interests. The resort successfully strikes a balance between family-friendly activities for children and vibrant nightclubs for adults, making it a versatile and unforgettable destination.

The Cove at Atlantis, nestled in Paradise Island, Bahamas, offers an exclusive and tranquil escape. The seamless blend of serenity and proximity to vibrant attractions makes it an ideal choice. The rooms, adorned with balconies, provide not only spectacular views of the beach but also a sense of tranquility. The staff’s warmth and attentiveness enhance the overall experience, ensuring guests feel well cared for throughout their stay.

Aquaventure is a thrilling water park that caters to visitors of all ages and levels of thrill-seeking. The numerous adrenaline-pumping slides offer breathtaking views from their peaks, and the Rapid River adds an element of excitement as well as a leisurely break from the waterslides. The park offers areas for all ages, especially young children to have an opportunity to enjoy the fun in the sun.  With numerous pools and lounging areas, guests can relax and enjoy the scenic masterpiece of the resort, with attentive service staff available for food and beverages. The option to rent private cabanas around the pools and beaches enhances the overall experience, providing a touch of luxury and exclusivity.

Atlantis Resort’s Aquaventure. ©South Florida Insider

Dolphin Cay provides an unparalleled interactive encounter with these intelligent marine mammals. Guests can partake in unique activities like being pulled and pushed by dolphins and snorkeling in their company. The knowledgeable tour guides not only facilitate these interactions but also educate visitors about the dolphins’ habits and behaviors. The availability of photos post-tour allows guests to capture and cherish these extraordinary moments, creating lasting memories.

Dolphin Cay at Atlantis Resort. ©South Florida Insider

Dining Experiences:

• FISH (Chef Jose Andres): FISH, an integral part of the resort, delivers a culinary journey with an array of seafood and crustaceans. The dining experience begins with the delectable cheddar bread, followed by an assortment of appetizers featuring small portions of crab cakes, lobster rolls, and oysters. The diverse menu extends to seafood salads, corn chowder, gazpacho soups, and options like Grouper and Mahi-Mahi for seafood enthusiasts. Non-seafood options such as steak and chicken cater to a wider audience.
• Nobu (Chef Nobu Matsuhisa): Nobu, under the expert guidance of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, stands out for its Asian fusion cuisine. The extensive menu covers a spectrum of flavors, with a notable selection of sushi and sashimi. Hot and cold dishes, including ceviche and seafood, add depth to the culinary experience. Wagyu and chicken dishes provide alternatives, and the expansive dessert menu ensures a sweet finale to the dining experience.
• Paranza (Chef Michael White): Paranza, led by Chef Michael White, presents an immersive Italian dining experience. The menu showcases artfully crafted dishes encompassing fresh pasta, seafood, caviar, chicken, and steak. Indulgent artisan desserts like tiramisu and strawberry Semifreddo offer a perfect conclusion to the meal, celebrating the richness of Italian culinary traditions.

Lionel Richie’s ‘Dancing on the Sand’ became more than a concert; it evolved into a celebration of music, camaraderie, and shared passion. Vibee’s carefully curated event left attendees with not just the joy of witnessing a musical icon, but a treasure trove of memories, connections, and stories destined to endure. Atlantis Resort, with its myriad offerings, went above and beyond, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience for all who were fortunate enough to be part of this musical journey.