Sir Elton John heads to Yas Arena

Sir Elton John is to be the next superstar performing on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island.

The singer-songwriter will perform at Yas Arena on March 29, with ticket details announced soon.

Accompanying him will be the percussionist Ray Cooper.

The duo's stripped-down shows gained rave reviews on a recent European tour, with critics praising the intimacy of the performance as John's soaring voice rose above Cooper's intuitive beats.

They also continue John's recent spree of musical collaborations.

His 2010 album The Union with the blues man Leon Russell boasted guests including Neil Young, Brian Wilson and Booker T Jones.

In The Captain and the Kid (2006) John and long-time lyricist partner Bernie Taupin created a sequel to their 1975 album Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy.

John's Abu Dhabi concert is set to feature hits such as Rocket Man and Your Song, as well as tracks lifted from his near 50-year career and 30 albums.

Cooper is known for his expressive performances and is part of John's full touring band, as well as having played live with The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton.

Russell Peters is also performing in the UAE next month, it was announced yesterday.

The Canadian comic will take the stage at Dubai's World Trade Centre on March 20, and in Abu Dhabi at Flash Forum on March 22.

More information is available at www.thinkflash.ae

* Saeed Saeed