Elton John brought the house down at the Centrium Wednesday night as he performed to a sold-out crowd. Fans dressed the part and many were decked out in brightly coloured boas and dazzled sunglasses in a salute to the music icon.

As John proceeded to take the stage, the uproar from the crowd was deafening as the audience cheered and were immediately brought to their feet.

With the stage simply set with only a piano, John took his spot behind it and opened with The One. His voice, powerful from the start, never wavered throughout the two and a half hour show and the audience was clearly mesmerized and hanging on to his every word.

After finishing the opening number John greeted his fans. “Good evening Red Deer! I never thought I was going to say that,” he said as the crowd laughed.

John showcased his unbelievable skills on the piano in 60 Years On in which he sang passionately, somewhat hauntingly and powerfully before quickly jumping into Border Song.

After each song John was given a standing ovation and he thanked the audience by waving and making his way around the stage.

Rocket Man, Tiny Dancer and Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me were definite crowd pleasers as the audience sang along loudly. Benny and the Jets and Crocodile Rock had fans up on their feet while the emotional and meaningful Candle in the Wind brought some to tears.

John is truly a master of the keys. Many of his songs showcased his talent on the piano and he seemed to get better and become more alive as the show progressed.

“I love coming to Canada. It’s part of me now,” he told the audience. “I wish you all health and happiness.”

John left the stage but quickly returned after the crowd demanded an encore by stomping their feet and applauding. Once he returned, he happily signed autographs for fans sitting in the front row before finishing up with a combination of Circle of Life and Can You Feel The Love Tonight.

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com