His future lies beyond the yellow brick road … possibly as a hologram.
Elton John is the subject of reports that his image will headline an immersive, holographic production at Hard Rock Hotel. According to the U.K. tabloid The Sun, John and former collaborators Kiki Dee and Dua Lipa will partake in this show.
The pub offered no sourcing. But there is an interesting detail: the three artists plan to film their performances together in the fall at Pinewood Studios in Iver Heath, England.
Hard Rock President Joe Lupo offered no comment on what he termed “speculative” reports. The exec offered, “We are excited about what’s ahead for Hard Rock Las Vegas and look forward to announcing property details when ready.”
Hard Rock has plans for a 5,000-seat theater (expanding the former ”Love” theater and previously Siegfried and Roy’s theater), a new 2,000-capacity venue, and a renovated space that was formerly Mirage Theater (over the years home of Danny Gans, Terry Fator, Shin Lim and the Aces of Comedy series).
The John-Dee partnership dates back 50 years to the hit, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.” Lupa and John teamed on 2021’s “Cold Heart (Pnau remix).”
We most recently caught the actual Sir Elton at the Raiders Foundation’s Silver & Black Gala at Allegiant Stadium. John’s last three appearances have been at the stadium. He headlined a corporate show in June 2024 for 35,000 Cisco Live convention attendees. His last ticketed performance in Las Vegas was in 2022.
John also has a rich history in the Vegas residency culture, hosting two series at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace: The Red Piano” from 2004-09, and “Million Dollar Piano” from 2011-‘18. In all, Sir Elton has played 444 shows in those two residencies. Overall, by his own count, he played 469 concerts in Las Vegas dating to his first, in 1971 at Las Vegas Convention Center.
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at [email protected]. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.