Wayne Newton

Vegas icon at the top of his game

Staff Report

Brimming with energy, style and passion, it's no wonder that Wayne Newton's shows consistently sell out. With 50 years of entertaining audiences on the Las Vegas Strip under his belt, Newton is often referred to as "Mr. Las Vegas." His new show, Once Before I Go, takes audiences on a journey through the iconic performer's entire career. From Newton's start as a shy 15-year-old boy just off the bus to his place as one of America's most celebrated entertainers this show tells the story of Newton's life from the man who is living it.  

From the moment he appears on stage, Newton delights the crowd. Venturing into the audience to deliver handshakes and kisses, he spends a good 15 minutes greeting audience members and dazzling them with his brilliant smile.

Newton knows how to connect with his audience, as he should - he's been a Vegas icon since the '70s when his act first became popular. Since then, he's been active in the community, politics and gaming while tempering his image as a solid stage performer.

Newton's stage presence is dynamic - in addition to singing his best-loved hits (including "Danke Schoen," which puts the audience in a frenzy), Newton cracks jokes, plays banjo, fiddle, guitar and piano, and toys with the crowd. His rendition of "Great Balls of Fire," in which he tickles the ivories with his toes, sizzles.

His stamina is remarkable. Newton never slows down, feeding off the constant cheers of the audience. He's at his best when performing songs that make the most of his rich baritone voice. His version of "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," which he dedicates to Hank Williams, best showcases these vocal talents.

A natural entertainer, it's obvious Newton loves every moment of his show. His down-to-earth approach is why he's the darling of Vegas entertainment. His enthusiasm returns to the crowd tenfold, who live it up at every turn.