Out musical superstar Sir Elton John is coming back to New Zealand for another one-off concert, on the exact anniversary of his Wellington date last year. Venture Taranaki and Capital C: Concerts have confirmed Sir Elton will perform at the Bowl of Brooklands, in the heart of Pukekura Park and featuring its annual Festival of Lights. The promoters say the venue “will offer an intimate atmosphere for the occasion that no other location in New Zealand has. “With a 15,000 capacity this will we the hottest of the 'big artist' concerts in 2007 and arriving just before Christmas will give locals and visitors to Taranaki alike, the rare chance to see one of the world's greatest touring artists.” Sir Elton is heading to Australia for multiple dates again at the end of the year but still made time in his fast-paced schedule to again dash across the Tasman to play for his loyal fans. Capital C: Concerts' promoter Phil Sprey says December 6 has become a good luck omen for Kiwis. “Those who were fortunate to be in the 35,000 strong audience at the Westpac Stadium in Wellington will remember that memorable day for its fine weather, electric atmosphere and a night that delivered the very best of the Pianoman's repertoire.” A ‘meet and greet' with Sir Elton was auctioned off on TradeMe last year to benefit the NZ AIDS Foundation. $11,050 was raised. This year's show will feature a number of classic Elton John hits together with a sprinkling of songs from his newer albums, say promoters. His signature piano will travel especially to Taranaki for the concert. "If you are looking at an intimate outdoor location with a scenic setting for an artist like Elton John, then New Plymouth is very hard to ignore,” says Sprey. "We could have easily taken the concert to bigger venues with bigger local populations but it's more than just about the bottom line. It's about delivering an experience that won't be forgotten for a very long time. I don't think the audience or Elton will be disappointed." The concert openers are Wellington ensemble STRIKE Percussion. Ref: Capital C: Concerts (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Thursday, 9th August 2007 - 10:23am