Elton John tribute show coming to Turlock theater

TURLOCK -- Bust out the glittery shirts and bell-bottom jeans.

A 1970s Elton John tribute show is coming to the valley -- and proceeds from ticket sales will help support a piece of Merced County history.

"Elton -- The Early Years," is the new fund-raiser show for the Castle Air Museum, and will rock the Turlock Community Center on April 27.

"After the success of our last show, we received many calls asking when the next one was," said Joe Pruzzo, chief executive officer of the Castle Air Museum.

"We're excited to bring a fantastic Elton John experience to the valley, and spread awareness of our activities here at Castle."

Tickets go on sale today, organizers said, adding that the ticket price will include one free admission to the Castle Air Museum.

The show is a full-band recreation of Elton John's legendary 1970s performances with seven seasoned musicians performing in bell-bottoms, platforms, glitter and sequins.

Lead vocalist Kenny Metcalf will wow audiences with his legendary portrayal of the Rocket Man, playing the piano and belting out tunes from 1970 through 1979.

The show benefits the Castle Air Museum, which displays a fleet of more than 50 aircraft from World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Museum visitors are treated to up-close-and-personal views of the majestic warbirds.

"Elton -- The Early Years" shows at 7:30 p.m. on April 27 at the Turlock Community Theatre. Tickets are $20 to $25 and will be available today by visiting www.turlocktheatre.org or at the Turlock Community Theatre box office.

Reporter Ramona Giwargis can be reached at (209) 385-2477 or rgiwargis@mercedsunstar.com.