Concert Review
Wayne Newton
Seneca Niagara Events Center
Niagara Falls, NY
Sunday December 9, 2012
Review/Photos: Joseph Suto
Wayne Newton also known as “Mr. Las Vegas,” closed out his seven show residency with a Sunday afternoon matinee at Seneca Niagara Casino. The show, listed as “Christmas with Wayne Newton”, kickstarted the upcoming holiday season. Wayne chose to start the show with the Christmas segment of his show with “Jingle Bells”, “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” and a classic rendition of the old standard “White Christmas”.
Newton explained how he doesn’t play the same show twice which at his age is a true testament and shows his dedication to the entertainment industry. Newton 70, told stories about all the different people he worked with who also became friends with him throughout his long career. He explained how his career had its ups and downs and how everyone if they should live long enough will experience the same. He recalled some of these memories by rolling out a projection screen on stage to show some clips of his past. One clip featured him singing on The Lucille Ball Show. Another had him doing a duet with none other than the late great Sammy Davis, Jr., during which he sang it live while Sammy’s vocals were played which drew a huge ovation at songs end. He also told a story about one of his early appearances with the late Dean Martin as well.
Newton talked about how special the Buffalo area was to him as he recalled playing the old Glen Park Casino. He fondly remembered the Town Casino as well which is now known as the Town Ballroom in downtown Buffalo.
Newton did a medley that also included “Daddy, Don’t You Walk So Fast”, “Red Roses For A Blue Lady” as well as his signature hit “Danke Schoen”.
Wayne Newton is first and foremost an entertainer. He takes pride in entertaining and while his voice is not what it once was, he still delivered a captivating show and brought that touch of Vegas with him to Niagara Falls. He is the bridge that helps connect the last fifty years in entertainment. He has worked with so many stars throughout his long career and it was good to see him still active and sharing his memories with everyone.
