Toni Braxton and Cedric the Entertainer Recall When Their Kids Dated (Exclusive)

Toni Braxton and Cedric the Entertainer knew each other long before they decided to conquer Sin City together.

The R&B icon and the comedian are teaming up for a unique Las Vegas residency, billed as Love & Laugher, at the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas starting April 27, and while the gig marks their first time working together, the two performers became close long ago — through their kids.

“When they were young, they dated, and they were the age where we had to take them to each other’s homes,” Cedric tells PEOPLE. “We would sit around and laugh and talk while they just hung out. That really was the start of our friendship.”

Love & Laughter initially stemmed from Braxton’s team, who pitched the idea for a Las Vegas show combining her singing talents and Cedric’s comedic skills as somewhat of a throwback to live variety programs, which immediately piqued both of their interests. “They’re going to see a show like Sonny and Cher or Donny and Marie,” teases the “Un-Break My Heart” musician.

“It’s not like I’m going to go on stage first, and then Cedric performs. We’re coming out together, in different acts, and we intermingle between those acts for funny bits. And this man is so talented — he can really sing,” says Braxton. “He’s, like, a triple threat. I had no idea.”

Cedric was also impressed by the breadth of the Grammy winner’s onstage abilities. “We know Toni from the beautiful love ballads and everybody just kind of sees her as this sultry sultress, but she likes to have a good time,” he says. “She’s not gonna be telling jokes jokes — but she is funny.”

Braxton previously held her own Las Vegas residency from 2006-2008, and Cedric’s already turned to her for advice on how to maintain stamina within the busy schedule. “I did ask her a few questions about the nightly performances of it, and she gave really honest answers about resting my voice and how to get enough sleep and doing yoga,” he quips with a laugh. “No, she was like, ‘Get up there and do what you do. That’s it.'”

The joint Las Vegas residency marks the Braxton Family Values star’s first performances since before the COVID-19 pandemic. She feels a little “anxiety” about returning to the stage — though most of it stems from figuring out how to fit her expansive catalog into a 90-minute show shared with Cedric.

“I’m trying to find a clever way to incorporate all those songs, maybe a medley. It’s a lot of catalogs, like all his incredible funny jokes, I don’t know how he’s going to do it. I guess he’s going to pick the funniest parts,” says Braxton. “We’re very lucky we have a lot to choose from. Sometimes it can be bad if you don’t have enough material, but that’s not our case, so we’re very fortunate.”

In addition to showcasing both of their skillsets, Cedric teases “surprises” as part of Love & Laughter as well. “We know so many celebrity friends and people that can’t wait to be a part of the show and want to have fun with us,” he says.

The artists will also be joined by loved ones at the performances. “My whole family will be there and friends. They’re excited for me, and I’m excited to be back at work,” says Braxton.

One thing unlikely to happen, however, is for their kids to rekindle their relationship. “They were young, and they both moved on — matter of fact, we both get in trouble for even bringing it up,” explains Cedric. “My daughter’s like, ‘I got a new man.’ I’m like, ‘OK.'”

Beyond the show, Cedric and Braxton are looking forward to enjoying Las Vegas outside of the theater. “I’m a golfer, and they got some of the best golf courses in the world, and I got good friends up there. My family will come in and out,” says the comedian. “Toni’s a foodie, we’re going to go and have some fun, do some exploring on and off the strip.”

“And, of course, we can go to Niagara Falls on a helicopter,” he adds.

“Niagara Falls?” asks Braxton, confused, before correcting him: “No, the Grand Canyon.”

“I’m so good at geography, guys,” says Cedric with a laugh. “When I’m at the Paris hotel, I really believe I’m in Paris. All I order is croissants.”

Love & Laughter is currently set to run for seven shows from April 27 through July 13. Tickets are on sale at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas’ website.