Bennie and the Rest: A Tribute to Elton John Returns to the Hangar Theatre at Hangar Theatre

Bennie and the Rest: A Tribute to Elton John Returns to the Hangar Theatre

(ITHACA, NY) October 14, 2026

The Hangar Theatre is thrilled to welcome back singer, actor, and musician Jason Ostrowski for Bennie and the Rest: A Tribute to Elton John—a special evening celebrating Elton John's iconic songs, captivating stories, and signature showmanship. Ostrowski, a dynamic performer, embodies John’s spirit in this tribute, featuring beloved hits like “Tiny Dancer,” “I’m Still Standing,” and “Rocket Man.” He’ll be joined by a talented group of local musicians: Robert Keefe on guitar, John White on bass, and Mark Joyce on drums.

The Hangar first presented this memorable show in January 2026, just as Ithaca was bracing for a winter storm. Despite the weather, the event drew a jubilant, enthusiastic crowd—many clad in sequins and oversized sunglasses.

Reflecting on what inspired him to create an Elton John tribute, Ostrowski shared, “Well, I grew up a big fan of Billy Joel. While I was always aware of Elton John, I never considered myself a true fan. That has changed a LOT, and I am now a fanatic. The first time I ever saw him live was in the face-to-face concert he did with Billy Joel, and I thought he was incredible. But it wasn’t until I started doing dueling piano work regularly in 2017 that people began saying I sounded and looked like Elton behind the piano…I’ve been wearing my Nana’s costume jewelry on stage ever since.” As a headliner on cruise ships, Ostrowski has performed versions of the show over 300 times.

“I love playing this music and bringing back memories for so many people that grew up with it. But looking into the audience, I always see such a vast age demographic from teens to people in their ‘80s. And they all know and love this music.” Kenny Passarelli, Elton John’s former bassist of the famed 1975 Dodger Stadium shows, marveled “Jason captures the energy, the musicality, the look! Watching him perform reminded me of being on stage with Elton!”

Born and raised in Rochester, NY, Jason began his musical journey with piano lessons at age 8. Over the years, he has played in rock and disco bands, piano bars, and cabaret acts. In 2006, his dedication led to a standby role as Peter in John Doyle's Tony Award-winning revival of Company on Broadway. In 2007, he toured the country with Andrew Lloyd Webber's Whistle Down the Wind. From 2011 to 2014, Jason was on the road with the 25th Anniversary Production of Les Miserables. More recently, he has appeared on television shows including “Bull,” “FBI: Most Wanted,” and “WeCrashed.” He continues to perform around the world with his Elton John tribute and a biographical rock musical called “Sing Us A Song.” Jason recently released an EP of original music, “Rely On Me,” available wherever music is streamed.

Bennie and the Rest promises an exciting, interactive concert experience. Ostrowski explained, “I try to replicate what I have experienced about 20 times in seeing Elton John live. All the versions of the songs I do are like the live versions he has performed over the years…People should come ready to sing along, get up and dance if they want, and be transported back to the first time they heard these songs.”

The show will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 22 at the Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd. Tickets are $35 for adults and $20 for students and can be purchased online in advance or at the door.

About the Hangar Theatre:

The Hangar Theatre produced its first fully realized performances in the summer of 1975 in a space converted from a Works Progress Administration-era airplane hangar. A community-driven arts campus for regional audiences and tourists alike, the Hangar is now a year-round venue completing its 52nd season. The Hangar offers professional theatrical productions during the summer, hosts local and national musical acts, community arts groups, and education programs throughout the year.