Elton John extends Vegas run into 2008

Elton John will continue to call The Colosseum at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas his home away from home for at least three more years.

John has signed an agreement that will extend his production, dubbed "The Red Piano," into 2008, Caesar's Palace announced on Wednesday (6/15). The singer/pianist first signed an agreement with the resort in 2003 that called for 75 shows over three years starting in February of 2004, but the production proved to be a hot seller, prompting the resort to book John for more than the initially planned 25 shows per year. The accelerated schedule left John's original 75-show commitment fulfilled in less than 18 months.

The new agreement calls for an additional 150 shows through 2008, according to Caesar's.

"I am absolutely delighted with the extension of 'The Red Piano,'" John said in a statement. "I love playing at The Colosseum and it is the best venue in Las Vegas."

The Colosseum is a 4,100-seat theater originally designed to host Celine Dion's production, "… A New Day." "The Red Piano," which plays on nights when Dion is off, was directed and designed by David LaChappelle.

Backing John on stage are musical director/guitarist Davey Johnstone, keyboardist Guy Babylon, bassist Bob Birch, percussionist John Mahon and drummer Nigel Olsson.

Currently on tour in Europe, John returns to Vegas for a five-night run in late July, and will also spend much of October at The Colosseum. His plans also include a headlining set at the July 4 Philadelphia Freedom Concert & Ball, and a series of late-summer/early fall North American arena shows. Details are included below.