Elton John Extends Contract With Caesars Palace
15 June 2005
LAS VEGAS – (PRESS RELEASE) -- Acclaimed singer, songwriter and performer, Elton John, and Caesars Palace in Las Vegas announced today that the artist will extend his exclusive show "The Red Piano" at Caesars Palace through 2008. "The Red Piano" originally was scheduled for 75 shows over a three-year period, beginning February 13, 2004. Responding to overwhelming popular demand, the resort accelerated the initially planned 25 shows per year, completing the original commitment in fewer than 18 months. The new agreement provides for an additional 150 shows through 2008.
"I am absolutely delighted with the extension of 'The Red Piano,'" said the famed entertainer. "I love playing at The Colosseum and it is the best venue in Las Vegas. Thank You Caesars!!"
"We are delighted with the run-away success of 'The Red Piano' and Elton's agreement to extend his association with Caesars," said Caesars Palace President Mark Juliano. "Caesars has a long-standing commitment to presenting premiere talent. The Palace's entertainment philosophy is a departure from the market's prevailing entertainment strategies, and it uniquely positions Caesars Palace as a Las Vegas destination where guests have an opportunity to see the world's greatest entertainers."
Performed exclusively at Caesars Palace, "The Red Piano" was directed and designed by David LaChappelle, with stunning visuals in the 4,100-seat Colosseum theatre. Performing with the artist in "The Red Piano" are his band: musical director Davey Johnstone on guitar; Guy Babylon on keyboards; Bob Birch on bass guitar; John Mahon on percussion; and Nigel Olsson on drums.
"The Red Piano" debut on Valentine's weekend in 2004 netted top ratings from critics in the U.S. and abroad. Reviewers' comments included:
"Most exciting show in Las Vegas 2004" -- Las Vegas Review-Journal
"A must-see." "A triumphant step forward" -- Los Angeles Times
"Eye-popping, jaw-dropping ... Elton John is Still Standing as one of pop's indestructible talents." -- USA Today
"Elton John remains one of the world's genuine superstars" -- London Telegraph
"Flamboyant rock star conquers Sin City!" -- Rolling Stone
The legendary career of Elton John has spanned more that three decades. By all measures, he is one of the world's most successful touring artists and one of the top-selling solo artists of all time. Elton John has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, with 29 consecutive Top 40 Hits and 35 gold and 25 platinum albums.
The last 18 months have brought non-stop triumphs for Elton John. In addition to performing for standing room audiences at Caesars Palace, he released in November 2004 "Peachtree Road," a critically acclaimed studio album; its debut single, "All That I'm Allowed," immediately hit the Top 20 in the United Kingdom.
While his Tony award-winning "Aida" and long-running "The Lion King" musicals reigned on tour and on Broadway, the artist wrote music for "Billy Elliot - The Musical." Based on the similarly titled hit movie, "Billy Elliot - The Musical" debuted in London's famed West End theatre district in May 2005. According to Variety magazine editor Peter Bart, "'Billy Elliot' will clearly rank as one of the best musicals of its generation" (May 31, 2005). Never content to rest on recent accomplishments, the artist also is working on songs for the Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures Broadway Musical "Vampire Lestat" with longtime writing partner Bernie Taupin. At Caesars Palace, Elton John's "The Red Piano" will be presented July 26-31 and October 4-23, 2005. Tickets are available by calling 888-4-ELTONJ (888-435-8665), or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Caesars Palace Box Office.