Las Vegas Legend: Liberace Museum Set to Close

Sequined capes and rhinestone pianos coming soon to a town near you.  A dark day ahead for lovers of all things kitsch and glam, after 31 years of operation, the Liberace Museum will close its doors Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010.  Due to the economic downturn and the decline in the number of visitors, the Liberace Museum is closing the space to focus primarily on its dedication to the donation of scholarships.

The building received a complete overhaul in 2002 in order to increase its appeal as a prominent Las Vegas tourist attraction.  The original 1970s era façade was redesigned with “over the top” fun and flamboyant architectural elements to represent the spirit of the institution.  These touches include curvilinear walls featuring a mosaic of the performer and sheet music from one of his most famous songs, “The Beer Barrel Polka,” a mirrored glass entrance lobby with piano keys across it, and neon pink signage.

The silver lamé lining? Memorabilia at the Liberace Museum will be maintained and a national touring exhibit is being planned. “The traveling exhibit is an exciting way to share the life and legacy of Liberace while providing an income stream for the Foundation,” said Koep. “In no way do we intend to close the doors and not continue to explore options that will allow us to reopen at a later date.”  [via The Liberace Museum]

I’ve pulled some images to look at while we wait for the tour dates to be announced.