VegasChatter

For the loyal legions of fans of these multi-Grammy, multi, multi platinum-selling performers this is reason for celebration. In essence, you will have 40 chances to see three concerts rolled into one. Faith and Tim performing on stage solo and, more importantly, in their "Soul2Soul" duet mode. Loaded with hits, it's the show fans have been hoping for. And, the resort believes it merits the hyperbole of “the biggest musical event in the history of The Venetian.”

Shows start on December 7 and continue for 10 weekends through April 2013.

In the works since July of 2011, the Venetian pitched the concept to the singers. And, their total willingness for flexibility was a main drawing point to bring the couple to Vegas. Just don't expect them to integrate themselves into the city scene. The pair won't be seen hanging with Carrot Top or chilling at the Peppermill. Nope, they describe their plan of attack as parachuting into Vegas for the concerts and then jetting back to their home life. Not quite the outlaw lifestyle of Merle Haggard who McGraw professed to hero worship to this room and the thousands of Internet watchers who were able to witness the event streamed live through the couple's websites and via Venetian's Facebook presence.

The Phantom Venetian Theatre capacity is 1,815 seats, which compares with the 50 to 60 thousand seat arenas the pair usually sell out. Yep. That's McGraw's numbers. They both called this room an "intimate environment." McGraw also described the show design integrating with the "beautiful setting," but will be "very cutting edge... with cool stuff." We think that is code for easily removable video screens. Asked about the chance that this series of concerts will be renewed, that's when they dropped the "moment in time" description. Again, it revolves around other tours, recording and those three kids. Awwwww.

Faith and Tim are part of a country armada invading Las Vegas, joining Garth Brooks at Wynn and, also debuting in December, Shania Twain at Caesars. When asked to comment about the country influx, Faith hedged and called her colleagues "great ambassadors" for the country scene. It's just like the U.N., folks. The odds of these Venetian concerts selling out in about a millisecond seems likely so here are the details. We quote them direct:

"Members of The Venetian’s loyalty program, Grazie, as well as Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s official fan communities and Clear Channel subscribers will be able to purchase advance tickets through the pre-sale starting tomorrow, Wednesday, August 8 at 10 a.m.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday, August 13 at 10 a.m. Performances are scheduled for 8 and 10:30 p.m. on December 7, 8; 14, 15; January 18, 19, 25, 26, 2013; February 1, 2, 15, 16, 22, 23, March 1, 2; April 12, 13, 26 and 27."

Phew! Got that? Well, just as we got you all hot and bothered, here's the bad news. The prices. Yes, there is a price for intimacy, even in this town. Start saving your pennies, because it looks like getting real close to this couple will cost you up to a cool grand. And, that does not include a 'meet and greet!'

Good luck to all prospective ticket purchasers. Let us know how you got on.

"Ticket prices are $95.50, $175.50 and $255.50 and $295.50 inclusive of tax. A limited number of VIP Packages –- including preferred seating in the first two rows, a complimentary pre-fixe dinner at a select resort restaurant, two complimentary drinks at the show, a merchandise credit and more – will be available for $1,000, inclusive of tax".

We broke the news yesterday about the musical Rock of Ages also occupying this space come December. We don't know how this all works together with these 40 concerts.

Faith and Tim were honest enough to admit much is still in the planning mode for their stage design. But, changes are already afoot for the venue. On our arrival we noted the minty new Venetian Theatre sign out front. For all those passionate Phantom fans, piece by piece the dream is disappearing. As one fan base falls aside, another will now take its place.

(PHOTOS: VegasChatter)