Smokey Robinson star of Lido Theatre’s first concert

Motown legend Smokey Robinson illuminated the 75-year-old Lido Theatre on its inaugural night as a concert hall Saturday. The singer-songwriter performed hits including, “Cruisin’,” “Being With You” and “I Second That Emotion.”

Before the show, Robinson, 74, talked about being the opening act at the Balboa Peninsula movie theater’s unveiling as a venue for live music, philanthropic events and book readings.

“I’m just very excited about that,” he told Newport Beach Television. “It’s incredible.”

The art deco theater’s new operator, Lido Live, said concerts will be a regular feature.

“Lido Theatre is loved by all,” said Tristan Ritter, who works for the property’s owner, Fritz Duda. Ritter told the Daily Pilot in June that “we’re excited to get in and reestablish it as a premier movie house and live music venue in Orange County.”