McDonald Jones Stadium prepares for Sir Elton John concerts in Newcastle
Almost 50,000 adoring fans are expected to pack out McDonald Jones Stadium, over two nights, to witness the musical genius which is Sir Elton John.
Newcastle
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It’s just days before the ‘Rocketman’ himself, Sir Elton John, stops in the Hunter as part of the final leg of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour.
The 75-year-old, known for his hits Tiny Dancer, Bennie and the Jets and Crocodile Rock, is set to travel to Newcastle to perform two first-class performances at McDonald Jones Stadium.
In a recent video post on Instagram, the king of pop rock took the chance to thank all his adoring fans for all their “amazing” support and wish them a happy new year, before talking about his trip to the Hunter.
“I’ll be seeing you next in Newcastle in Australia on January 8, from then on it’s pedal to the metal until July 8 in Stockholm,” he said.
For Sunday’s sold out show and then his add-on performance on Tuesday, the Hunter’s biggest stadium has to be transformed to house the musical genius in front of almost 50,000 fans.
Venue Manager Dean Mantle said it’s the city’s first major stadium concert this century, in what will be a major boost for the Hunter.
“It is anticipated that the event will have a direct economic impact of over $10 million to the local economy, with 37,000 visitors attending from outside the Newcastle LGA, 11,000 from outside the Hunter Region, 2250 interstate and 120 international visitors,” he said.
“It is great to see Mcdonald Jones Stadium become part of the concert circuit and our team is working incredibly hard to ensure the success of these events and look forward to continuing to bring the worlds biggest stars to Newcastle.”
Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism CEO Jennie Curran agreed it will be a great start to the year for the region.
“The upcoming Elton John concerts will certainly boost not only the local Newcastle economy but provide a flow on effect to surrounding regions, including the Hunter Valley, which is a very positive note to start the year on given the significant number of attendees expected for each concert,” she said.
While you’re probably thinking tickets are all sold out, there are still some seats left for Sir Elton John’s second show on Tuesday, but you need to get in quick.
His decision to add another performance in Newcastle followed a quick sellout for his first.
“Ticket sales have been very strong for both shows, with a second show being announced due to such a positive response,” Mr Mantle said.
Sir Elton’s next stops in Australia will be Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, before he travels across the Tasman for New Zealand shows.
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