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I always knew Wayne Newton was a big deal. But, being in my mid-40s, I didn’t exactly know why. Until now…

Born in Virginia with asthma, Wayne’s family moved west because the air was better for his ailment. And it serendipitously placed this gifted and prolifically-talented performer in the right geography for fame and fortune to strike.

Wayne’s been entertaining audiences in Las Vegas since he was a child. In fact, he was so young, that he wasn’t allowed in the casinos if he wasn’t working. So he had to go wait outside in-between sets.

You get a sense that he’s sort of a keeper, or protector, of what’s pure and good in the land of Las Vegas. An idealized version of Vegas full of romanticized stage-shows, dress up, and merrymaking. And in a city that’s boasted itself as sin-city, that’s really saying something. After preforming for decades in his beloved city he’s right rightfully earned the nicknamed, Mr. Las Vegas.

Wayne has been entertaining audiences on Fremont and the Strip since he was 15, he is now in his 80s, and while his voice isn’t that of a young buckaroo anymore, he is still quite simply electrifying. His charisma and grace permeates the intimate performance space at Flamingo.

Seriously my face held a consistent smile throughout the show.

It is a heartwarming experience. To be this close to such a white-light legend.

We accidentally got an elite package. And it wasn’t very expensive. In fact, it was so reasonable, we didn’t even know we got perks. It included a front-row-ish bistro table.

Little logistical side note: You can bring in your own drinks, but no food. Wayne’s performance space is called, Buggy’s Cabaret at Flamingo, and the he venue is so small you wouldn’t want people bringing in all different foods, anyway. I had a huge water that I almost throwaway after seeing all the “no food” signs before entering. So. Food = bad. Drinks = good. And also, if you don’t accidentally order the package with your tickets, we did see people paying extra at the venue for the meet and greet. Ok, back to the package…

Our package also included VIP badges, and a most treasured pictures with Mr. Las Vegas after the show.

We actually didn’t feel rushed. And Miles had a nice quick dialogue with him about Virginia, the Birchmere, and what James Bond movie Wayne was in.

This is called Up Close and Personal for a reason. You are in a small intimate space. You’re actually up close and personal. Wayne not only entertains you through song, videos, and an uncanny ability to play so many instruments. But he also tells interesting and intimate stories from a remarkably charmed life.

This is truly a topnotch and unparalleled experience. Memory making at it’s finest. I recommend it highly. In fact, if I had to choose one thing to do in Las Vegas this would be it!

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Cover photo courtesy of WayneNewton.com — where you can also buy tickets to the experience.