Elton John is Sun Dome’s Opening Act

Before a press conference Thursday morning, overhead speakers played background music by Billy Joel and The Beatles. After the 30-minute event, Elton John’s “Crocodile Rock” was the tune of choice.

That’s because John will be the Sun Dome’s grand opening concert on Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Elton John will be performing live at the newly renovated Sun Dome for our grand opening,” said Trent Merritt, general manager of the Dome. “Elton John is one of music’s most legendary performers.”

During the press conference, a picture of John was dramatically unveiled and information about the show flashed on the screens above the arena.

began last summer, and more than 112,800 manhours went into the project, according to Sara Webster, the Dome’s director of marketing. Renovations cost $35.6 million and include upgrades to seating, audio and visual equipment, a concourse, store, performer’s suites and locker rooms.

USF athletic director Doug Woolard said the new Dome will bring thousands of people to the USF campus.

“The Sun Dome has really become a signature building at the ,” he said. The Dome first opened in December 1980.

The Sept. 14 show isn’t the first time John is coming to USF. He headlined at the Sun Dome in 1984, 1986 and 1988.

The USF Sun Dome has also announced that will perform Sept. 25 and will play Oct. 2.

Tickets for the Elton John show range in price from $39.50 to $139.50 and will be available on the TicketMaster website, at the USF Sun Dome box office or by calling 800-745-3000.