Wayne Newton Marks 65 Years of Performing in Las Vegas (w/ Video)

Experience “Wayne: Up Close and Personal” Nightly at the Wayne Newton Theater, Flamingo Las Vegas

Last week, Wayne Newton celebrated his 65th anniversary of performing in Las Vegas. The milestone was marked with a champagne toast and cake, attended by Caesars Entertainment executives and devoted fans. In addition, Newton was surprised with a citywide marquee takeover on all Caesars Entertainment resorts along The Strip as he drove in for his performance.

Newton arrived in Las Vegas at 15 years old in 1959 to begin his career on the city’s stages. Since then, he has become synonymous with the Entertainment Capital of the World, earning the moniker Mr. Las Vegas, a title he proudly embraces. Beyond his legendary performance run, Newton is deeply involved in the community and supports many charitable organizations.

“Had you told me at 15 years old that I would still be performing for fans on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip 65 years later, I would have thought you were crazy,” said Wayne Newton. “It’s been one heck of a ride, and I am eternally grateful to be an ambassador for this city—a place I’ve called home since I first arrived all those years ago. To be called Mr. Las Vegas is one of my greatest honors.”

“Wayne Newton is a legend, consummate talent, and above all, a kind and giving man,” said Sean McBurney, Regional President of Caesars Entertainment. “Wayne’s commitment to Las Vegas is unparalleled, and his dedication is shown through countless acts of generosity. We’re incredibly proud that Mr. Las Vegas is part of the Caesars Entertainment family.”

Newton performs nightly at Flamingo Las Vegas, the resort where he first headlined in 1963. His show, “Wayne: Up Close and Personal,” takes place in the Wayne Newton Theater inside Bugsy’s Cabaret. For more information and to purchase tickets through the end of 2024, please visit www.caesars.com/shows.

About Wayne Newton

Legend. Icon. World-renowned performer. Actor. The Midnight Idol. Mr. Entertainment. USO Ambassador and ardent supporter of veterans and active-duty service members. No other name is as defining, representative, or synonymous with Las Vegas and the entertainment capital of the world as Wayne Newton, Mr. Las Vegas.

Known worldwide, Wayne Newton’s signature song, “Danke Schoen,” and hits like “Daddy, Don’t You Walk So Fast,” “Red Roses for a Blue Lady,” “At This Moment,” “The Letter,” “Summer Wind,” and “Years” have solidified his place in music history. Newton has recorded 165 albums and performed live for more than 40 million people during his 25,000-plus shows in Las Vegas.

Newton recently made a historic return to the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, where he continues to perform his “Up Close and Personal” show, featuring hit songs and personal stories. A remarkably gifted artist who plays 13 musical instruments, Newton has never read a note of music, further epitomizing the talent and energy that define Las Vegas.

In addition to his stage presence, Newton is a sought-after actor. Discovered by Jackie Gleason, Newton’s early roles on “Bonanza” and “The Lucy Show” evolved into appearances in films like “Vegas Vacation” and “License to Kill,” and recently in the comedy series “Hacks.”

Born in rural Virginia, Newton knew from age four that he was destined to entertain. By nine, he had his own television show in Phoenix, Arizona. At 15, Newton was performing six shows a night, six nights a week at the Fremont Hotel in Las Vegas. Despite his youth, he quickly became a seasoned performer in the entertainment capital of the world.

Known for his exceptional work ethic and ability to connect with audiences, Newton tailors each performance to his audience, ensuring a unique experience every night. His deep patriotism has driven him to entertain troops in every major conflict since Vietnam. Named “Chairman of the USO Celebrity Circle” in 2000, Newton has led 16 USO overseas tours, becoming the first performer to entertain troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. He was honored with a private reception at the White House in 2001 by President George H. Bush for his unwavering patriotism.

Newton’s contributions have been recognized by the United States Department of Defense, which awarded him its highest civilian honor. Las Vegas has also celebrated Newton, making him one of only two people to receive the city’s Medal of Honor and renaming McCarran International Airport’s main thoroughfare as “Wayne Newton Boulevard.” He is honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was the first to be enshrined in the Las Vegas Walk of Fame.

Wayne Newton continues to embody the spirit of Las Vegas, performing at The Flamingo, tending to his Arabian horses, supporting local sports teams, and contributing to charitable causes. As one entertainment mogul once said: “Las Vegas without Wayne Newton is like Disneyland without Mickey Mouse.”

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