Wayne Newton, the Killers, Shamir to headline opening of Las Vegas Arena

By Jay Jones

Dec. 17, 2015 7:45 AM PT

What do Wayne Newton, the Killers and Shamir have in common? When it comes to music, not a lot. But all three will be headlining on opening night at Sin City’s newest entertainment venue.

The three acts will open the Las Vegas Arena -- that’s just a working name pending naming rights -- on April 6. It is sure to be one of the biggest concerts of 2016, and one of the best bargains, too, since tickets start at just $35.

All three have close ties to southern Nevada.

Newton , a local resident best known for his crooning of “Danke Schoen,” has been a fixture on the Strip since the 1960s, earning him the nickname of “Mr. Las Vegas.” His other hits include “Daddy Don’t You Walk So Fast” and “Red Roses for a Blue Lady.”

The rock band The Killers, which formed in Vegas in 2001, enjoys growing popularity and success. Its 2012 album is named after Nevada’s official state slogan, “Battle Born.”

Shamir is a 20-year-old singer-songwriter whose musical influences include R&B, rap, pop and soul. His first EP, released last year, is called “Northtown,” the locals’ nickname for his hometown of North Las Vegas.

Tickets are on sale online or by calling (888) 929-7849.

The $375-million arena, which will seat 20,000, is still under construction behind the Monte Carlo resort. A spokesman for developer MGM Resorts said an official name should be announced within a few weeks.

Other events are already booked for later next year. They include Janet Jackson (May 14), Garth Brooks (June 24-25 and July 2-4), the Dixie Chicks (July 16) and the Professional Bull Riders World Finals (November 2-6).

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