Elton John Debuts ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ Amid Sight Loss
LONDON –
Music icon Elton John graced the opening night of his latest creation, the stage musical “The Devil Wears Prada,” in London on Sunday. While audiences were captivated by the production, John himself admitted that experiencing it visually proved a challenge.
“I haven’t been able to come to many of the previews because, as you know, I have lost my eyesight,” John told the audience, his voice tinged with emotion.
“So it’s hard for me to see it, but I love to hear it and, boy, it sounded good tonight,” he added, eliciting warm applause from the crowd.
John, 77, had previously revealed in September that an infection had dramatically affected his vision, leaving him with “limited vision in one eye.” He shared on Instagram that the healing process was “extremely slow” and that full recovery for the affected eye was uncertain.
“The Devil Wears Prada,” a musical adaptation of the popular 2006 film, takes audiences behind the scenes of a prestigious fashion magazine. The production, mesmerizing with its dazzling costumes and vibrant set design, unfolds at London’s Dominion Theatre.
Starring as the formidable editor Miranda Priestly, originally portrayed by Meryl Streep in the film, is none other than the talented Vanessa Williams. The Broadway star’s commanding presence and powerful vocals bring the iconic character to life on stage.
The celebratory opening night gala served as a fundraiser for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, attracting a star-studded guest list including fashion luminaries and celebrities. Among them were designer Donatella Versace and former Vogue editor Anna Wintour, often cited as the inspiration for the Priestly character.
Wintour described the musical as “entertaining,” expressing her admiration for the adaptation.
The opening of “The Devil Wears Prada” marks another triumph in John’s illustrious career, his musical score weaving a captivating tapestry of emotions throughout the narrative. Though faced with personal adversity, John’s dedication to his craft shone brightly at the premiere, reminding everyone of his unwavering passion for the arts.
How did Elton John adapt his creative process for the musical “The Devil Wears Prada” after losing his sight?
## Elton John Debuts ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ Despite Losing Sight
**Interviewer:** We’re here discussing the highly anticipated opening night of “The Devil Wears Prada” in London. Elton John, the music legend behind the score, made a heartfelt admission about his current health situation. Joining us today is [Guest Name], a close friend of Elton John and [Guest Credentials/Relation to the Story].
[Guest Name], Elton revealed he’s lost his eyesight due to an eye infection. Can you tell us more about how he’s handling this incredible challenge while celebrating this momentous occasion?
**[Guest Name]:** This is a very difficult time for Elton, as anyone can imagine. Losing your sight is a deeply personal and challenging experience. But knowing Elton, his spirit, his resilience… I truly believe he’s facing it with incredible courage and grace. He poured his heart into this musical, and I know he’s determined to experience it, even if it’s in a different way than he envisioned.
**Interviewer:** He mentioned he hadn’t been able to attend many previews because of this. How has the creative process been impacted?
**[Guest Name]:** It’s been an adjustment, certainly. Elton relies heavily on his musical intuition, and while the team worked tirelessly to describe the visual elements to him, there’s no substitute for seeing it firsthand. But Elton adapted. He used other senses, listened intently to the actors’ deliveries, felt the energy of the music, and translated all of that into a truly remarkable score.
**Interviewer:** The support for Elton seems immense. What can you tell us about the atmosphere at the premiere last night?
**[Guest Name]:** It was electric. The audience erupted in applause when Elton arrived. They knew what he was going through, and the love and admiration was palpable. I think the entire team, cast, crew, and audience, rallied around him to make this night truly special. It was a testament to Elton’s enduring spirit and the power of human connection.
**Interviewer:** [Guest Name], thank you so much for sharing your insights with us. It sounds like a truly unforgettable evening under extraordinary circumstances.
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