I have just come back from a week's holiday in Las Vegas, courtesy of a 2-flights-for-the-price of-one air fare and a very cheap hotel voucher. (Just in case, for one remote moment, you thought that arts administrators were paid well!!)

Now, I know what you're going to think. Las Vegas. Sin City. Tacky, decadent, opulent, vulgar, and many other adjectives you might find to describe it. Well, most people either love it or hate it, and I for one absolutely love it - wonderful climate, friendly people and some of the best entertainment in the world.

While there, I went to a performance of 'O' by Cirque du Soleil, probably the most respected theatre company in the world.

It was an awesome performance, visually stunning, and undoubtedly the best staged show I have ever seen. One thing was very obvious - the Americans are prepared to invest in the arts, and often reap the benefits.

The show was in a purpose-built theatre seating over 2,000 people.

There was a huge stage, which could convert to a vast swimming pool in a matter of seconds. (I'm still trying to work out how they did it!) And a lighting and sound rig to die for.

Millions of dollars invested, a big cast, (62 on stage and 14 musicians), producing a stunning multi-disciplined arts performance.

The result - the show has been running for 4 years and has sold out every performance at over £80 a ticket. It's still the 'hottest ticket in town' and looks like remaining so for a very long time to come.

Investment in the Arts? Well there's a novel thought. Viva Las Vegas, I say!

Chris Jaeger is Director of Huntingdon Arts.