ELTON John is all set to deliver his last Hunter performances this weekend despite air quality and bushfire concerns.
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Promoter Chugg Entertainment on Tuesday updated ticket holders on the status of the shows, offering condolences to those affected by the bushfires across the state and nation.
"At this point in time, Sir Elton John's Farewell Yellow Brick Road Hunter Valley concerts, scheduled for this Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 January, will be going ahead as planned," the company said at the start of the week.
"Patron and staff safety is of the utmost concern and we will be working with local and regional fire authorities and other emergency stakeholders, to monitor the situation."
While still very dry, local bushfire concerns have eased somewhat. Ironically, after such a long dry period, there is a possibility of rain on both days - although it would be minimal - with temperatures to be in the mid-20s. There is also a chance of smoke haze on Saturday.
The Hunter shows are part of what has been billed as Elton John's final tour of Australia.
Despite his 72 years, John's concerts have gone down a treat.
His pledge of $1million to assist the bushfire appeal certainly helped win over fans too.
Tyler Jenke's online review for Tone Deaf after John's recent Melbourne concert summed up the veteran rocker's performance like this:
"Despite the fact that we're witnessing a legend bow out while still at the top of his game, almost every single person in attendance could have been forgiven for thinking this farewell tour is nothing but a ruse, with more to come years down the line.
"Sadly, it's the real deal, and with performances like this on offer, it's going to be a shame to have to bid them farewell as the tour continues.
"If you've got the chance to see Elton John one last time while he's in the country, please take it, lest you regret what could have been."
HANNAH'S BACK
IF you went to Dashville Skyline last October you undoubtedly left impressed by Alabama native Hannah Aldridge.
The Americana songstress was one of the finds of the festival and Aldridge is wasting no time returning to Australia to reconnect with her growing fan base.
The tour kicks off at the Stag and Hunter Hotel on January 17 as part of a The Song Collectors showcase with 2019 NZ Country Artist of the Year, Jenny Mitchell, and Newcastle's Natalie Henry.
You can also catch Aldridge at Maitland's Grand Junction Hotel on January 19.
