LYNN — Wayne Newton, one of Las Vegas’ most famous entertainers, performed at the Lynn Memorial Auditorium Sunday.
Those of a certain age will recall that this is not Newton’s first trip to Lynn.
The singer of the 1963 hit song “Danke Schoen” made his first trip to Lynn in 1966, when he met Mayor Irving Kane and took part in a “Jail Day” fundraiser, during which he stood for a mock trial and was fined, with the proceeds going to a North Shore children’s charity.
The now 81-year-old Newton, who has played multiple shows at the North Shore Music Theatre since his visit to Lynn nearly 60 years ago, said he only vaguely remembers taking part in “Jail Day,” but noted how excited he was to come play in Lynn.
“Boston, and the towns close by, have been such an important part of my life and career,” Newton said. “They were really the first people that took us in and took notice and really treated me like they wanted to see me again.”
Many concertgoers waiting to get into the show said they remembered Newton’s “Jail Day” visit, something Newton said was a joy to hear.
“It’s really interesting and wonderful,” he said. “Something happened here that has lasted my entire career … people took me in and made me a part of their family.”
Newton said before his tour he found out that one of his close friends, Mark Donegan, was originally from Lynn, which he said made the trip all the more special.
“Knowing that some of my dearest friends in the world were born and raised here really makes me feel good,” Newton said.
However, Newton, who has the nickname “Mr. Las Vegas,” noted that he was surprised when Donegan mentioned Lynn’s longtime nickname.
“He said, ‘It’s Sin City’ and I said, ‘No, Vegas is supposed to be Sin City,'” Newton said with a laugh.
